Hunt for asbestos dumpers heats up
Following Wingecarribee Shire Council’s removal of nine cubic metres of asbestos from Wombeyan Caves Road late last week, come further reports that even more prohibited material has been dumped in the area.
“We’re fielding calls from the public that suggest even more asbestos may still be littered around the Wombeyan Caves Road area,” said Council’s General Manager, Jason Gordon.
“It’s unthinkable that anyone would purposely dump this insidious material. Some of the more disturbing reports suggest asbestos sheeting may have been deliberately dumped over embankments,” Mr Gordon said.
Council staff are currently investigating each new incident as they arise.
“Council contractors have advised they will attend to further confirmed dumpings on Wombeyan Caves Road this week and in the Inverary Road area next week,” Mr Gordon said.
“We’re also receiving calls of dumped material being littered on land owned by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. We’ve subsequently been in contact with our state colleagues and notified them of these incidents on their land as well,” Mr Gordon said.
“On a more positive note, we’re currently investigating reports that a driver of a blue truck seen in the vicinity may have further information in regards to the dumpings.”
” Should anyone have any further information I ask that they contact Council on 4868 0888.”
Wingecarribee Shire Council has issued a $2,500 reward for information leading to the prosecution of illegal dumpers.
Penalties for illegal dumping include on-the-spot fines of up to $5000, five million dollars for corporations and one million dollars plus seven years imprisonment for individuals.