As the Central Victorian Livestock Exchange (CVLX) implements changes to their pen cleaning practices, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) will conduct more frequent inspections of the site.
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The deadline for the changes expired on Friday February 15 and now it is up to the EPA to determine if these new cleaning practices meet the subsequent requirements.
EPA south west region manager Carolyn Francis said in a statement the saleyards have confirmed changes have been put into place.
"The company has confirmed it has implemented works to modify cleaning practices and Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) officers will conduct an on-site inspection this week," she said.
EPA officers have been conducting odour surveillance each week for the past two months, and will be conducting more frequent patrols now that the company reports having made improvements.
- EPA South West Region Manager, Carolyn Francis
"The company must now provide EPA with a detailed report on its actions by 1 March 2019."
Mrs Francis thanked the community for their patience during this process and encouraged them to attend the next community meeting on March 14.
"EPA appreciates the community’s support in this assessment and encourages residents to continue reporting any odour problems they experience by calling 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842).
"EPA will continue to use enforceable official notices if needed, to require any further actions by the company and any non-compliances will be assessed under EPA’s Compliance and Enforcement Policy."
AAM Investment Group CEO Tim Gallagher said in a statement CVLX has improved it's cleaning methods and will continue to work closely with residents regarding further issues that may arise with the saleyards.
"CVLX is committed to working with the community and the EPA to address concerns raised in the Pollution Abatement Notice (PAN)," he said.
President for the Committee for Miners Rest Alicia Bond says the group is eager to see whether CVLX has reached compliance with the EPA's requirements.
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