Over 100 businesses linked to Bendigo tyre dump

About 10,000 tyres have been discovered at an illegal dump in Lockwood South, near Bendigo. This finding has led to a statewide investigation by Victoria's Environment Protection Authority (EPA). Investigators traced the dumped tyres back to 114 businesses and individuals, including transport firms and tyre retailers. They have issued nearly $30,000 in fines, given out nine official warnings, and required 70 businesses to get proper permits for their tyre stockpiles. The investigation started after a public tip-off alerted official authorities to the site. EPA officers conducted inspections and reviewed records at businesses across the state, including those in western and central Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne. Dan Hunt, the EPA's director of regional operations, emphasized that they used advanced technology to track the tyres. He noted that businesses trying to save money by illegally dumping tyres would face significant penalties. Hunt highlighted the environmental dangers of illegally dumped tyres, including potential land and water contamination, alongside the release of toxic substances. Victorian law requires businesses to follow specific rules regarding the storage and disposal of tyres. Businesses with more than 5 cubic metres of tyres need to apply for a license or registration. It is also necessary to track the movement of waste tyres using the EPA Waste Tracker system. Hunt urged automotive businesses to comply with these regulations. The EPA encourages anyone who sees suspicious tyre dumping to report it at 1300 372 842.