Fly-tippers warned they’ll more than likely be caught

Those residents participating in fly-tipping are being warned they’re more than likely going to be prosecuted.

Natasha Simmons, Council’s rubbish and recycling asset engineer said dumping rubbish on roadsides and in creeks and rivers was commonly called fly-tipping.

“It can range from throwing a wrapper out the car window as you’re driving, to large scale dumping of unwanted household goods and green waste. Those people who choose to illegally dump rubbish are not only damaging our environment but costing ratepayers money in unnecessary clean-up and disposal expenses,” she said.

Between January 2012 and December 2013, 93 cases of fly-tipping were reported to the Council, with 69 offenders fined either $150 or $250. Four offenders were fined $400 for dumping dangerous litter.

Last year it is estimated between $200,000 and $300,000 of ratepayers money was spent on cleaning up fly-tipping.

“All this has to be cleaned up by Council staff or contractors who climb down banks, wade through streams, and negotiate busy roadways to ensure it’s all collected,” Natasha said. “When litter is thrown on the roadside or down banks, it invariably finds its way into our watercourses, affecting not only aquatic life but also bird life.”

If you see someone fly-tipping please do not approach them. Instead record the date, time, location and license plate number of the vehicle with a description of the offender. Ring the Council on 356 8199 with this information.

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