AU By the Numbers – $1 Million or 7 Years in Jail
EPA Victoria is investigating a diesel spill which was visible for two kilometres along the Yarra River until the early afternoon.
The sheen of diesel was visible from the Swan Street Bridge, near the Tennis Centre, down to Spencer Street and spread over the width of the Yarra.
EPA director environmental services Bruce Dawson said EPA was investigating possible sources of the discharge of about 500 litres of diesel including a motor vehicle related incident.
The investigation has included inspection of the drainage system and the collection of samples.
EPA deployed one of its vessels to assist in the investigation.
An absorbent boom was placed at the drain outlet to the Yarra River. A second boom was placed downstream at Spencer Street.
EPA will continue to assess the state of the river until clean up is complete.
EPA is continuing its investigation in collaboration with MFB, Melbourne Water and Parks Victoria and appreciates the assistance provided by the public and these agencies.
Penalties for pollution offences under the Environment Protection Act included maximum penalties of up to one million dollars and jail terms for individuals of up to seven years.
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