Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water and West Wimmera Shire Council will hold an information open house at the Supper Room, Kaniva Shire Hall between 11.30am and 2.30pm on Tuesday 30 July to discuss the illegal waste dump site south of Kaniva.
While there is no contamination to the groundwater or other safety risks, EPA Regional Manager, North West, Dr Scott Pigdon said he was keen to share information directly with the Kaniva community.
EPA has spent several months at the 1,400 acre property 15 kilometres south of Kaniva on the Kaniva-Edenhope Rd searching out buried illegal chemical waste dumps.
"At the session we'll be able to share as much of the facts of the situation as we can, but throughout, EPA, the water authority and the council have ensured public safety especially to the groundwater which shows no signs of contamination," said Dr Pigdon.
Using its precautionary powers, EPA conducted investigations of the site including a first ever use by an Australian regulato of ground penetrating radar using drones. The inspections to date have located 20 underground dump sites.
"It has been an exhaustive investigation with more work to come. The safety of the community has been the priority. As we were confident there was no risk, EPA decided against causing needless anxiety by making public statements without all the facts.
"Relevant authorities, immediate neighbours and media have been kept informed and there has been no danger to the public from the site. Now we have a more thorough picture of the situation, we can meet with the broader community and have an informed discussion."
Details of the meeting are available at www.epa.vic.gov.au
Open House and Information Session – Illegal Waste Dump Site near Kaniva
When: 11.30am to 2.30pm Tuesday 30 July
Where: Supper Room at Kaniva Shire Hall, 15 Baker Street, Kaniva
Who: Open to all the community. Drop in anytime. No registration required
