Specifically, they won’t put up with any rubbish being dumped around the city that costs Bathurst Regional Council and the environment.

Bathurst residents are also being warned of an impending blitz as authorities gear up to get tough on illegal dumping, which will attract hefty new fines.

Bathurst Regional Council, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Roads and Maritime Services are joining forces to ramp up efforts to curb illegal dumping within the region in a co-ordinated campaign. 

Bathurst mayor Gary Rush said illegal waste dumping is an ongoing, costly and highly visible concern. 

“Illegal dumping continues to be a problem right across the country and it’s estimated to cost Bathurst Regional Council tens of thousands of dollars a year, not to mention the significant impact and cost on the local environment,” Cr Rush said. 

“Bathurst Regional Council is committed to working with the EPA and the Roads and Maritime Services. It’s crucial we collaborate with specialist organisations on this important issue in our community.”

Roads and Maritime Services western regional manager Phil Standen said there were certain times, such as during the Bathurst races, when there was an increase in illegal dumping.

“We have crews who maintain public spaces such as rest areas in and around Bathurst,” Mr Standen said. 

“Unfortunately, at certain times of the year, there is a big spike in dumping of items such as lounge chairs and building rubble, which diverts crews and resources away from their role in keeping the facility clean for people to rest and revive.”

In most cases, the rubbish is domestic waste, such as old whitegoods, pushbikes, lounges, carpet, tyres, clothing and other household items. 

Rubbish can also blow into waterways or bushland, or by its nature result in contamination to land.

When hazardous materials such as asbestos or discarded syringes are dumped, the costs associated with the clean-up are very high, often requiring specialist contractors to remove the illegal waste. 

Cr Rush said that often, items can easily be recycled or disposed of for only a few dollars at the tip. 

“Councils are often left to clean up the mess utilising resources for reporting, investigating and finally removing the dumped rubbish,” he said.

Those found to be undertaking illegal activities such as rubbish dumping or even firewood collection from council and state lands may be issued with penalty notices.

To report illegal dumping within the Bathurst Region, contact Bathurst Regional Council on 6333 6111; the NSW EPA Environment Line on 131 555; NSW Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.