By Tanya Steele
Kallista was the site of a road closure and clean up as asbestos was reported dumped by local CFA on Friday 10 January.
The asbestos was dumped in a public area, with swift action to clean it up taken by local authorities.
Locals reported seeing the road closed and crews clearing up the hazardous material on social media and Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed the clean up on Tuesday 14 January.
Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure, Jonathon Makaay said on Friday, 10 January, council was contacted by Victoria Police who had been contacted by CFA about asbestos dumped on VicRoads managed road.
“Vic Police closed the road to avoid potential spread of asbestos from cars. Our teams supported the Department of Transport and Planning, engaging a contractor to assist with removing the asbestos as quickly as possible,” he said.
“Dumping of asbestos on public property is not only extremely expensive to remove, but highly dangerous for community members who may come into contact with it.”
On the social media page for The Hills and the Dandenongs, locals reported seeing the road closed between Kallista Primary and Cooks Corner and sighting the clean up crews at work at around 11am.
Mr Makaay said council are disappointed that this has occurred and that they will work with Victoria Police to pass on information.
“We strongly encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000,” he said.
