By DANIELLE GALVIN
Council warns zero tolerance to tackle…
ILLEGAL dumping will not be tolerated – that’s the message from Cardinia Shire Council following a spike in Pakenham in recent weeks.
Last month, the News had a call from a Pakenham Road resident who said hordes of rubbish including fridges, couches and more was dumped in the newer estates towards Pakenham Upper.
The resident, who lives on the top of the hill, says he often sees people dumping rubbish in the area.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen said illegal rubbish dumping was on the rise in the shire and the council needed the community’s help to track down the culprits.
The council’s compliance services officer Darryl McKean said the council had recently tracked down and fined several illegal dumpers, thanks to residents reporting incidents or providing valuable information.
In May, a Pakenham South resident spoke out about the recurring problem with illegal dumping on his property. Footage was released to track down the people responsible.
“The case is going to court soon and charges are pending,” Mr McKean said.
On 20 July, another resident reported that rubbish had been dumped on Watson Road in Pakenham. The council traced the rubbish to a Pakenham address. The offender admitted responsibility, was fined and ordered to clean up the rubbish within 48 hours.
“The perpetrator was identified and the rubbish cleared in less than a week after the incident was reported, which is an excellent outcome,” Mr McKean said.
The council is now investigating a case of rubbish dumped on Pakenham’s Toomuc Valley Road. The offender has been identified and charges are expected to be laid.
In July and August last year, the News spoke to two residents who are fed up with the issue.
Pakenham resident Leanne, who did not want her last name used, said there were often piles of rubbish dumped on the side of the road in the vicinty of her home.
She said it was a particular problem in McGregor Road, Greenhill Road and Watson Road in Pakenham and that the council was often quick to act to remove it.
A newcomer to the area also spoke to the News about issues regarding illegal dumping.
Rob, who did not want his last name used, moved to Pakenham last year and encouraged residents to take their rubbish to the tip instead of leaving it for someone else to clean up.
Residents are increasingly using photo and video technology via CCTV cameras and smart phones to catch culprits in the act of dumping rubbish or capture vehicle registration details.
“This evidence helps council to take enforcement action more quickly and effectively,” Cr Owen said.
“The message is clear – if you dump rubbish illegally, the chances are you’ll get caught.”
Residents are asked to look out for vehicles loaded with rubbish heading to secluded areas.
