Byron Shire Council, Media Release, 1 October 2021

Council and the NSW Environment Protection Authority are investigating two illegal dumping incidents in the Byron Shire.

Members of the public reported the incidents on Durrumbul Road at Main Arm and Coolamon Scenic Drive at Billinudgel.

At Main Arm the rubbish was dumped just off the road, 50 metres from the creek.

At Coolamon Scenic Drive the rubbish was dumped off the road with some items falling down the ridge.

In both cases the materials were remnants from renovations including fibro sheets, some of which were asbestos, tiles, timber and a fridge.

Zoe White, Council’s Waste Education Compliance Officer, said that whoever had been involved in the incidents had no regard for community health and safety or the environment.

“Some of the material was asbestos which has the potential to be a significant health hazard if disturbed,” Ms White said.

“This is environmental vandalism at its worst and I know I speak for the community when I say this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated in our beautiful Shire,”

“I am very grateful to the members of the public who notified Council about this because this rubbish could have ended up in our waterways if we had received heavy rain,” she said.

Council has cleaned up both sites and disposed of the asbestos.

“Illegal dumping is a very serious matter with fines of up to $1million for individuals and $5million for corporations,” Ms White said.

People who have information relating to these incidents, which happened between 17–24 September, are asked to email illegaldumping@byron.nsw.gov.au or call the Resource Recovery Hotline on 1300 625 652.

Information on the safe removal and disposal of asbestos is available on Council’s website.

Free asbestos testing kits are available at Council’s office in Mullumbimby or the Resource Recovery Centre at Myocum.