A motor wrecker at Hoppers Crossing faces a fine of more than $5,500 from EPA Victoria. EPA officers found leaking oil, clogged stormwater pits and the smell of petrol at the Forsyth Rd business.
EPA ordered the company to fix the problems and issued a fine of $5,548 when it failed to comply.
EPA officers found Atlas Auto Pty Ltd, trading as Werribee Motor Wreckers, did not have controls to stop petrol and oil leaking into stormwater drains. Those drains lead to the Forsyth Road Drain and local wetlands.
There was a smell of petrol, engines and gearboxes leaking oil, stormwater grates blocked by oily mud, and no controls for contaminated stormwater.
EPA Western Metropolitan Regional Manager Stephen Lansdell says 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.
Most businesses want to cooperate, and EPA officers say typical issues are easy to fix. They include management of liquids and waste, spill containment, keeping vehicle wash-water out of stormwater drains and having spill kits for a quick clean-up.
EPA has backed its prevention campaign in the west with local knowledge, with officers working with indigenous traditional owners and the Werribee River Keeper.
The EPA website has advice for businesses working to protect the environment and the community. There is a special publication for motor wreckers: epa.vic.gov.au/about-epa/publications/1810-1
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or heard in court.
You can report pollution to EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution
