Cade Lucas
A Hoppers Crossing motor wrecker is facing more than $5,500 in fines for not preventing oil and petrol leaking into stormwater drains.
An inspection of Werribee Motor Wreckers, by Environmental Protection Agency officers found engines and gearboxes leaking oil, stormwater grates blocked by oily mud, the smell of petrol and no controls for contaminated stormwater.
Stormwater drains at the business lead to the Forsyth Road drain and local wetlands.
After failing to comply with an order to fix these problems, the EPA issued fines to the wreckers also known as Atlas Auto Pty Ltd.
EPA Western Metropolitan Regional Manager Stephen Lansdell said the waterways of the west face many hazards, including fuels and oils.
“The wetland near this property is in good condition and we want it to stay that way. Half of the waterways around Hoppers Crossing are at considerable risk from metals and oils,” Mr Lansdell said.
“EPA has been proactive in protecting waterways in the west with more than 400 snap inspections of industrial premises this year. We have issued advice, remedial notices, and fines where necessary,” he said.
The EPA has used local knowledge to inform its prevention campaign in the west, with officers working with indigenous traditional owners and the Werribee River Keeper.
The EPA website has advice for businesses working to protect the environment, including a
special publication for motor wreckers:
epa.vic.gov.au/about-epa/publications/1810-1
Pollution can be reported to the EPA on 1300 372 842 or
epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution
