An EPA Victoria inspection of oil in Scotchmans Creek at Glen Waverley has resulted in an ongoing investigation.

EPA pollution response manager Dan Schmidt said there had been several reports of oil in the Creek, which led to officers visiting the site and undertaking a comprehensive inspection of stormwater drainage systems in the area to determine the source.

“Officers were able to isolate the problem and identify the material as transformer oil. EPA is currently working with a company which is cooperating with our investigation. On the weekend, that company engaged contractors to clean up and remove oil from the Creek.

“Given that historically transformer oil may contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and recent test results have confirmed the presence of PCBs, there is understandably some concern about any residual impact on the environment. EPA is working with the Department of Human Services, Melbourne Water and Monash City Council to ensure all concerns are addressed.”

Mr Schmidt said EPA’s investigation will continue and any decision about enforcement action would be made once that was complete.

“At this stage EPA is happy with the progress that is being made and with the response from the company we are working with.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the public who made the initial reports to EPA. Without their involvement this spill could have gone unchecked for a lot longer.

“It also serves as a reminder to all companies to undertake an inspection of their own sites to ensure they are operating with due consideration for the environment.”

People should avoid coming into contact with the oil, however, if you do wash your hands in warm soapy water. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor.

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