Broad backs EPA move

Member for Mallee Andrew Broad has applauded Environment Protection Authority Victoria’s action in removing a stockpile of waste tyres at Stawell.

Mr Broad said he had been advocating since he came into office for something to be done at the site, which had been an extreme health and environmental hazard for many years.

“I am pleased the removal process has begun. I want Stawell to be a vibrant community with employment opportunities, and I want it to be safe,” he said.

“I recently met with Minister for the Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg and informed him of both mine and the general community’s concerns about this stockpile and he was shocked to learn just how dangerous the situation was.”

EPA used its powers under Section 62 of the Environmental Protection Act 1970 to clean up the site.

The process involves trucks loaded with tyres leaving the site six days a week and travelling to Melbourne where the tyres will be shredded.

Mr Broad said while the exact number of tyres at the site was unknown, the removal process would be lengthy and called on the community to avoid the site.

“Although clean-up is underway there are many safety and health hazards still in place at the site. I urge the community to stay away and let the EPA remove the tyres safely,” he said.