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Council and HVP dedicate resource to litter removal

From 1 October 2016, Hancock Victorian Plantations (HVP) has funded 19 hours per week (0.5 EFT) for the provision of a Local Laws Officer as a dedicated litter enforcement investigator on HVP property.

By Portal Admin - 7th November 2016 - Back to News

Latrobe City Council’s chief executive officer, Gary Van Driel, said the position had been established to reduce the incidence of rubbish dumping in the plantations particularly around Morwell, Churchill and Hazelwood North.

"The illegal dumping of litter in these plantations costs HVP around $160,000 a year to clean up and dispose of. The dedicated Latrobe City Council officer will identify offenders with a view to issuing infringements or pursuing prosecutions for the more serious instances of aggravated littering, where hazardous items such as oil, chemicals, asbestos, nappies, glass, metals, have been dumped.

"Providing media coverage of successful prosecutions will help to highlight the seriousness of the problem as well as educate the public about illegal dumping, the penalties that can apply and the ways in which rubbish should be disposed of," Mr Van Driel said.

"Early indications are that the program is already making an impact. There have been more than 50 investigations undertaken, resulting in the issuing of two $311 infringements. Three investigations are in progress, and one case of aggravated littering is being considered with a view to prosecution.

"Over the coming months we expect to issue more infringements and lodge more cases for prosecution, with the intent of getting the message out to the general public that these sorts of activities are unacceptable and that severe penalties apply," Mr Van Driel said.

Simon Gatt, general manager HVP Plantations, said the organisation was very appreciative of Council’s support on this issue.

"We look forward to the ongoing partnership with Council," Mr Gatt concluded.

Media Enquiries:

Media Relations Office

Telephone: 5128 5458

For general enquiries, contact Latrobe City Council on 1300 367 700.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: support@gippsland.com



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