An investigation into Mundijong-based dairy factory Mundella Foods is still ongoing, says a Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) spokesperson.
The spokesperson said the investigation started in June last year and was in relation to the factory’s operations.
Mundijong resident Ray Pozzebon said he has lived next to the factory for 18 years and has only recently started experiencing odour issues.
“It’s hard to describe how it stinks but think of rancid dairy products in 40-degree heat,” he said.
Mr Pozzebon said the factory was allegedly illegally dumping waste byproduct which was then flowing into the back paddock.
“Around June (or) July last year, DWER paid a visit and said (Mundella) weren’t allowed to be dumping the waste out there,” he said.
The Examiner asked DWER if Mundella Foods was illegally dumping wastewater, if owner Hayden Russell had been given a timeline of actions to address complaints and what actions DWER would take to address residents’ concerns.
The DWER spokesperson said the department was unable to provide further comment at this time as the investigation was still active.
Mr Pozzebon alleged the two water tanks onsite had been filled with non-water liquid.
A Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) spokesperson said they were aware of a complaint made late last year regarding the storage tanks.
“The complaint has been assessed and DFES has provided advice and recommendations to the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale to have the product removed,” the DFES spokesperson said.
“Local brigades have been advised not to use the water source.”
Shire President Rob Coales said the tanks were intended for use if there was a fire at the factory itself and not for local bushfire fighting.
“We are working closely with DWER and local residents to support the investigation.”
Mr Russell was contacted for comment.
