¶ A TYRE dumping ground south of Minningup Pool continues to grow amid fears winter rains could lead to the discharge of toxins into the Collie River.
As reported by the Bulletin in July last year, hundreds of tyres have been dumped in a pit on unallocated crown land, accessed via a series of dirt tracks off Mungalup Road.
There has been a significant accumulation of tyres and other rubbish, including mattresses, sofas and plasticware, at the site since the Bulletin first reported on the matter.
In response to a recent query, a Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage spokesperson said procurement of a contractor for clean-up at the site is underway.
However, no timeline was confirmed for when works could potentially get started.
“The department continues to work with other relevant authorities to manage activity at the site of the illegal dumping,” the spokesperson said.
A Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) spokesperson told the Bulletin the department continues to assist Collie Shire’s investigation into the matter.
“The investigation remains active,” the spokesperson said.
“As yet, no charges have been laid.”
There are concerns that old mine tunnels in the area could fill with winter rain and potentially discharge toxins into the river.
Friends of the River coordinator Donna Davies said she is “disappointed” clean-up of the site has yet to take place.
Mrs Davies said it could negate the work being done to improve river health.
“It could create some toxic issues for the river water,” she said.
“It could have an impact on the river.
“It’s very disappointing that people are using it as a dumping ground for tyres.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact DWER via its pollution watch hotline on 1300 784 782 or via pollutionwatch@dwer.wa.gov.au.
Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers WA at www.crimestopperswa.com.au/resource/environmental-crime/.