SADLY local dumping in community parks and in bushland has been increasing, even without the usual number of tourists and campers visiting the seaside region.
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Illegal dumping of rubbish and waste has been reported occurring in the Tea Gardens Lions Park Lookout and the Skate Park, as well as in nature reserves and seaside areas throughout the Myall Coast.
In some locations, dumping is happening daily.
Dumping degrades environmental beauty, creates health and safety hazards, and attracts vermin and weeds.
Local police have been alerted and advise anyone who sees dumping to photograph and report it to the NSW Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and to the Midcoast Council.
Locals can use their mobile phones to Report Illegal Dumping (RID).
The RIDonline website supports people to report dumping, including uploading photos and location information.
The EPA, Midcoast Council and Regional Illegal Dumping (RID) squads use this information to investigate and, if appropriate, issue a fine or clean-up notice.
The penalties for illegal dumping can be up to $15,000 and potential jail time for anybody caught illegally dumping within five years of a prior illegal dumping conviction.
Tea Gardens also has a waste transfer station or Landfill & Recycling Centre which is open all days except Saturdays, including during the COVID-19 restrictions.
Of note, excess household recyclables are free to dump.
Midcoast Council kerbside bin collection services are also operating normally.
By Sandra MURRAY
