Warrumbungle Shire Council is calling on the public to stay vigilant and report any incidents of illegal dumping.

This follows years of litter bugs leaving hazardous waste across the shire, causing harm to the environment and digging into council's pockets.

Leanne Ryan, Director of Environment and Development Services said that although there has not been a significant increase, illegal dumping continues to be a persistent problem.

The most popular locations, according to Ms Ryan, for illegal dumping were “out of the way areas”, on Crown Land, and road reserves. 

Illegal dumping includes large waste items, such as mattresses, tires, and furniture on land or in the water. 

It is not only harmful to the environment through contaminating soil and poisoning plants and animals, polluting waterways, and degrading culturally sensitive environments but can be dangerous for humans as well if they come in contact with hazardous material.  Illegal dumping can also taint the image of the region by creating an unappealing appearance. 

Ms Ryan said one of the reasons illegal dumping continues to be a problem is because people believe they can get away with it. 

“The real challenge is that many individuals don’t think they will face the consequences of their actions. We need everyone’s help to prevent illegal dumping and to hold those responsible accountable.” 

Ms Ryan encouraged the public to report any incidents on the Reporting Illegal Dumping online and if possible, take a picture of the litter.

Illegal dumping continues to be a problem across our region. In the 2023/24 financial year, the Warrumbungle Shire Council received $20,000 in funding through the Illegal Dumping Prevention Grant from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The Coonamble Shire Council recently obtained a $19,000 grant through the Dumping Prevention grant. 

“Illegal dumping is a very unfortunate problem that we must tackle. It creates clear dangers to the environment and health, not to mention the unnecessary cost to council to clean it up, at a cost to all ratepayers,” Coonamble Shire Mayor Tim Horan said.

There are hefty fines for illegal dumping which can reach a maximum penalty of up to $50,000 for litter that is dumped in a sensitive place or $25,000 for litter that is dumped on public land or open private places for individuals. 

“By working together and staying vigilant, we can make a significant impact on reducing illegal dumping in our community,” Ms Ryan added.