OneFortyOne is calling on Limestone Coast residents to stop dumping rubbish in the forest and to call out people who are not doing the right thing, after a record amount of rubbish was found across the forest estate over the past year.
Gambier Area Supervisor Jeremy Cookson said a whole range of items from abandoned vehicles and vehicle tyres to general waste and whitegoods, even a kitchen sink, have been among the litter found throughout the OneFortyOne estate.
Mr Cookson said it was not just small amounts of waste found dumped, it was tandem loads and small trailer loads that had been discarded.
“It’s bewildering there are people out there that still think it’s okay and acceptable to dump rubbish like this in the environment,” he said.
“Not only is it an environmental and fire risk, it’s illegal.
“We know our forests are great for things like walking, horse riding, and 4WDing, and it’s disappointing these activities may be affected by rubbish dumping.
“If people keep dumping, areas of the forest will become unsafe to the public.”
Mr Cookson said a lot of the time the rubbish could have been sorted into recycling or was smaller items that would fit into a home landfill bin.
Mr Cookson said other items found like whitegoods, tyres, paint, and chemical tins, while a bit trickier, all had disposal options at the transfer stations.
“If you’re not sure how to dispose of something, contact your local council,” he said.
“There’s always a better, more environmentally conscious, and safer way than mindlessly dumping your rubbish in the forest.
“If you’re doing this, you’re contributing to a bigger problem, and worst case start a fire that could ultimately lead to deaths.
“If you have information about illegal dumping or have seen something suspicious, you can anonymously share what you know with Crime Stoppers by going to crimestopperssa.com.au or freecall 1800 333 000.
“It’s going to take a collaborative and targeted effort between forest growers, local councils, community and police to start minimising the issue.”
