The Preston branch of national vehicle servicing and mechanics chain MyCar has been fined for allowing waste cooling system fluids to escape to a storm drain.
Community members noticed a liquid flowing into an alleyway at the rear of the Plenty Rd business and called EPA in March this year.
Our officers responded and on inspection discovered coolant in a storm water drain on site and have now issued Tyre and Auto Pty Ltd (trading as MyCar) with a $1,976 fine.
"The only thing that should be going down our stormwater drains is rainwater. For vehicle fluids like coolant, which often contain ethylene glycol and corrosion inhibitors, to be allowed to escape their business site in this way is a breach of the Environment Protection Act and a fine is appropriate," said EPA North Metropolitan Regional Manager Chloe Bernett.
"Storm water drains are directly connected to our waterways. Chemical releases like this put the environment at risk and EPA will take immediate action wherever they find it happening."
Ms Bernett also said protecting the environment was everybody's business and if any member of the public sees pollution, they can report it to EPA on 1300 372 842 and on the website at www.epa.vic.gov.au
