Illegal dumping of rubbish not tolerated across the Gannawarra

Illegal dumping of rubbish not tolerated across the Gannawarra

Gannawarra Shire Council is reminding residents that the illegal dumping of rubbish will not be tolerated, following an increase in incidents reported across both urban and rural areas of the municipality.

Dumping of items including furniture, household goods, green waste and building materials has been reported on rural roadsides, urban nature strips, vacant land and public reserves.

As outlined in Council's Community Amenity Local Law 2023, penalties apply where these materials are left on Council land or in public places without approval, and Council may arrange for items to be removed with all costs passed on to the responsible party.

"Illegal dumping is not a victimless act. It puts our community at risk, damages the appearance of our towns and rural areas, and the cost of cleaning it up is ultimately borne by ratepayers," Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

"Items left on nature strips and roadsides can also block pedestrian access, especially for wheelchair and pram users, and create safety hazards for motorists. These items can damage passing vehicles if an accident occurs."

Residents are encouraged to take unwanted items to any of Council's transfer stations for disposal or arrange for private collection.

"Council is increasing its monitoring efforts and, where we can identify those responsible, we will pursue penalties and recover removal costs from the offender," Mr Rollinson said.

Residents who witness illegal dumping are encouraged to report it to Council on (03) 5450 9333, with details of the location, the items dumped and, where safe to do so, vehicle descriptions or registration numbers.

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