Following an exhaustive tender and procurement process, Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has appointed the contractor to carry out remedial works at the illegal waste site in Lemon Springs, south of Kaniva in the state's north west.
EnviroPacific Services Ltd will begin works in March 2021, with excavation of waste being completed in stages. EPA will work closely with EnviroPacific to ensure the removal of waste is carried out safely and thoroughly. All waste excavated will be sampled and taken to an appropriately licensed facility for disposal.
"The safety of the community continues to be our top priority," said EPA Project Manager, Julian Bull.
"We plan on maintaining the regular communications we've had with them as well as a planned community meeting for February 2021 in Kaniva.
"The meeting will give the local community a chance to hear from EPA, EnviroPacific and stakeholder groups like council, CFA and the water authority about how the siteworks have been progressing and what's to come.
"Details will be released as soon as possible, with invitations sent to stakeholders and the community."
Groundwater sampling was completed on site in December 2020, with results continuing to show no signs of contamination. Sampling will continue to be conducted regularly throughout the project to ensure any potential contaminants are discovered.
EPA will continue to pursue the occupier to pay for the cost of cleaning up and will use all available powers to hold them to account.
Staying informed
EPA's website is the best place to visit to stay up to date – epa.vic.gov.au/kaniva
