An environmental disaster was averted at Ocean Grove’s much-loved Blue Waters Lake.
The lake had a lucky escape thanks to quick action from locals who noticed an oil spill at the drain outlet at the Cuthbertson Drive end.
Several nearby residents noticed a large amount of black oil pooled at the stormwater drain.
Aware that rain was forecast, locals alerted the City of Greater Geelong and Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
Council’s city services director Guy Wilson-Browne said the oil was confined to the concrete stormwater basin.
“The attending city officers immediately engaged a contractor to remove as much of the oil as possible,” he said.
“The removal process took place over two days.
“EPA and Victoria Police representatives attended the scene; however, I understand that no evidence was found to pinpoint the source of the material.
“We were extremely disappointed to see this oil deposited into the stormwater system and strongly condemn any illegal dumping.”
Ocean Grove Community Association member and local resident Carla Pascoe was one of the first on the scene to report the spill.
“This was a close call for the lake and emphasised the importance of ensuring that no liquid or solid waste can enter stormwater drains around the town, where it will inevitably end up in our waterways,” she said.
Mr Wilson-Browne urged community members who witnessed illegal dumping to report it immediately to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842 or the City of Greater Geelong on 5272 5272.
