A dangerous tyre stockpile in Numurkah will be removed, with the Andrews Labor Government stepping in to protect the local community.

Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio today called a community meeting in Numurkah to announce funding to clear up the stockpile on privately-owned land, where an estimated 500,000 tyres have been stored.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) will use its powers under the Environment Protection Act 1970 to enter the site and remove the tyres, with the assistance of Moira Shire Council.

The removal of the tyres will take approximately 10 weeks, with the waste to be taken to an EPA-licensed facility in Melbourne for shredding and recycling.

Shredded tyres can be used throughout the construction, manufacturing and automotive industries with the end products to include athletics tracks, brake pads, new tyres or road surfaces.

Tyres are made of compounds that can cause rapid combustion, including carbon, oil, benzene, toluene, rubber and sulphur.

A Country Fire Authority fire risk assessment of the Numurkah site concluded that a fire at the premises would be catastrophic. A security fence will be constructed around the border of the site to prevent any access.

Updates on progress of the clean-up will be available at moira.vic.gov.au.

Further queries can be directed to EPA on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or at epa.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“This stockpile presents an unacceptable risk to the community – that’s why we’re stepping in.”

“We’re providing immediate funding to clean-up this site and keep the community safe.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“We won’t let rogue operators endanger the health and safety of the local community.”

“We’re providing the EPA with the powers, tools and funding it needs to prevent fires at waste facilities.”