Environment Protection Authority Victoria north-east regional manager Emma Knights said the investigation began with a complaint about a strong odour from the premises of Yarra Valley Stock Removers Pty Ltd, trading as Yarra Glen Knackery.
‘‘Responding to that pollution report, EPA officers inspected a property in Daldy Rd, Shepparton North, and found dumped industrial waste in the form of animal carcases,’’ Ms Knights said.
‘‘They also smelled a strong odour characteristic of dead animals, that was easily detectable outside the property’s eastern and western boundaries.
‘‘EPA officers observed animal carcases and bones, and carcases that had been dumped in a hole in the ground and partially buried.
‘‘Odour was not the only concern — the property is close to the Goulburn River, and rotting carcases can contaminate soil and groundwater.’’
EPA has fined Yarra Valley Stock Removers Pty Ltd $8060 for contravention of Section 27A (2)(a) of the Environment Protection Act 1970, which bans the dumping of industrial waste at a place that is not licensed to accept that kind of waste.
The authority also issued the company with a Clean Up Notice; an official order to remove the carcases for proper disposal at a facility that is licensed to accept that type of industrial waste.
A follow-up inspection showed the animal carcases and skeletal remains had been cleaned up.
Under the Environment Protection Act 1970 and the Infringements Act 2006, the company has the right to have the decision to issue the infringement notice reviewed or alternatively to have the matter heard and determined by a court.
■Members of the public can report odour, industrial waste dumping and other types of pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842.
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