PUBLIC help is being sought to help catch those responsible for dumping tyres, diesel and sections of used conveyor belt in a water catchment area in Mundaring.

The illegal dumping site was discovered by an officer from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions near the intersection of Firewood Road and Poison Lease Road in Mundaring on July 17.

A number of heavy vehicle tyres, a 1000 litre intermediate bulk container (IBC) containing contaminated diesel, a refrigerator, and sections of used conveyor belt were found at the site. The diesel had discharged into the soil.

It is suspected that a tipper truck was used to illegally dump the waste. Indications are that it may have entered Firewood Road from Poison Lease Road and dumped its load before travelling west along Firewood Road to Mundaring Weir Road.

Work has already started on cleaning up the site, with the costs potentially passed to the offender in the event of a court appearance. There is no evidence that the dumped diesel has entered the water supply.

Investigators from the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation are asking for public help to identify those responsible for dumping the waste.

DWER Senior Investigator Cliff Bliss said it is believed the items were dumped in the days leading up to July 17 as fresh tyre tracks were visible.

“If you have seen a vehicle entering the area with old tyres and an IBC on board, please get in touch with us,” he said.

“In particular we are looking for dash cam images, security camera vision, or any other information that can lead us to the offender or offenders.”

The maximum fine for illegal dumping is $62,500 for an individual or $125,000 for a body corporate.

Anyone with information is asked to call DWER’s Pollution Watch hotline on 1300 784 782.