Latest News

• Add My News • Search Old News

Gippsland › Latest news › Department of Sustainability and Environment

Illegal Rubbish Dumping In State Forests

Dumping of rubbish in our State forests is not only unsightly and dangerous, but illegal and carries heavy penalties.

By Department of Sustainability and Environment - 29th August 2007 - Back to News

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) staff have recently noticed an increase in the amount of rubbish being illegally dumped in State forest areas in the region.

Regional Manager Forest Stewardship and Biodiversity, Grange Jephcott said a number of popular camping and picnic sites in Gippsland’s State forests have become rubbish dumping grounds.

"This sort of littering not only detracts from the beauty of our bush, but may also result in unhygienic conditions for other users of the forest and poses serious risks to native plants and animals," Mr Jephcott said.

"DSE and Parks Victoria manage some beautiful recreational sites which are popular with a wide range of users, most of whom respect the environment and do the right thing with their rubbish."

"It is very disappointing that some people are treating these areas as a rubbish tip, with no regard for the environment or for other people who enjoy and care for the forests."

DSE and Parks spend time, effort and money cleaning up dumped rubbish that should have been taken to the local tip.

These cleanup operations are sometimes made more difficult due to the disposal of hypodermic syringes and discarded chemicals posing a health risk to clean up crews.

"Cleaning up litter in State forest is an expensive task and one that would be unnecessary if rubbish were properly disposed of in the first instance," Mr Jephcott said.

This is a timely reminder that littering (including the dumping of garden clippings) in State forest and Parks is illegal and carries a heavy penalty that could exceed $6,000.

All household rubbish should be taken to council refuse stations and garden clippings can be composted. Garden waste can be the source of exotic weed infestations and animal remains may attract feral animals to the area. Introduced species of plants and animals can destroy our native populations.

DSE will be conducting regular patrols over the coming months in an attempt to eliminate rubbish being dumped in our forests. The local community can assist DSE with this matter by reporting any instances of illegal rubbish dumping to their nearest DSE or Parks Victoria Office.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

• Tim Bull urges state government to fund Surf Life Saving, preventing East Gippsland ratepayers covering government shortfalls
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull urges state government to fund Surf Life Saving Victoria, warning councils face doubled contributions while new Emergency Services levy strains East Gippsland and Wellington budgets.
• Peri Urban Councils urge state government to invest in infrastructure and support housing growth across regions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria is urging government investment in infrastructure after a new report recommended 40% of new homes be built in regional Australia, highlighting housing demand, high costs, and infrastructure pressures.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Danny O'Brien congratulates Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds receiving state funding to enhance community facilities
  Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds have received over $43,000 in state funding to upgrade facilities, recognising their vital role in supporting men's wellbeing and community connection.
• Danny O'Brien commends South Gippsland Shire for securing Nyora transport study funding, urges further state investment
  Danny O'Brien has praised South Gippsland Shire Council for securing state funding for the Nyora Transport Study, urging the Allan Labor Government to follow through with real investment and road upgrades.
• Join our free Beninette Tour for behind-the-scenes access, event facilities insights, and booking information
  Ever wondered what's really beyond the bricks at Berninneit? Thinking about hiring a space or curious about what's backstage? Join us for a free guided tour and get an insider's look at every space in Berninneit, in just half an hour.
• Peri Urban Councils advocate for housing, infrastructure, and policy recognition with state government
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria met government leaders at Spring Street, advocating for housing solutions, essential infrastructure funding, and policy recognition to support rapidly growing peri urban communities sustainably.
• Danny O'Brien says reduced bonus helps some, but bungled energy policies and digital-only access hurt households
  The state's Power Saving Bonus has been cut from $250 to $100 and is now limited to concession card holders, leaving many Gippsland households without relief despite rising energy costs.