- Published:
- Friday 28 November 2025 at 8:45 am
EPA officers fined Robco Fishing Company Pty Ltd over an incident in September in which the company’s trawler discharged a white, foamy liquid from a hose into the Moyne River, which flows into Port Fairy Bay and Bass Strait.
EPA has been engaging with the port authority since early 2025, after receiving a number of reports of discharges from vessels causing community concern.
The fine was for unlawful deposit of prescribed waste (industrial wastewater under 50 Litres) into a natural waterway. While the fine was issued by EPA, it is one that can be issued by any litter authority in Victoria, including local Councils and other land managers.
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.
Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution
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