A north-west Tasmanian couple has been convicted of operating an illegal landfill on their rural property after a four-year investigation by the state’s environmental watchdog.
Craig and Tracie Nielsen were found guilty in the Devonport Magistrates Court in December on all charges relating to unlawful waste storage and disposal at their Tugrah property.
Craig Nielsen was fined $6,000 for his primary role in the offending. Tracie Nielsen received a $2,000 fine.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) launched its investigation in April 2021 after receiving a complaint about an unauthorised waste depot on the land.
Officers inspected the site the following month and found excavated areas consistent with landfill activity.
The property contained demolition material, car bodies, bitumen emulsion, used steel fencing and white goods.
The EPA confirmed the landowners held no authorisations to accept, store, treat or dispose of waste.
An environmental protection notice was issued in July 2021, ordering the couple to immediately stop.
The convictions included offences for creating environmental nuisance that adversely impacted neighbours.
EPA chief executive Catherine Murdoch said the case served as a warning to others.
“Landowners and operators are reminded that the unlawful disposal and storage of waste poses serious risks to the environment and human health and that appropriate approvals are required for all waste-related activities,” she said.
“The EPA will continue to investigate and take enforcement action where non-compliance with Tasmania’s environmental legislation is identified.”
Murdoch said the public can report suspected illegal dumping to the EPA using the 24-hour hotline on 1800 005 171.
“We encourage members of the public to report all suspected illegal waste activity to the EPA,” she said.
