Some 195 tonnes of illegally dumped material was recently collected in a coordinated effort between Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW.

The clean up included the removal of more than 80 cars dumped illegally in forest areas.

Council group manager Maria Doherty said illegal dumping was dangerous and unsightly, and no-one wanted to injure themselves on rusty old metal when they were bushwalking or trying to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

“The damage that illegal dumping does to our local flora and fauna is significant, and the cost of clean up operations such as this come from community funds,” she said.

Fines have already been issued, with on the spot fines of $4000, and up to $250,000 for individuals, and $1 million for corporations, acting as a deterrent.

Whitegoods, bulk cardboard, computers, glass bottles and aluminium cans can all be dropped off for free at waste facilities at Cairncross, Wauchope, Port Macquarie, Kew and Comboyne.

Household quantities of hazardous materials and oil can also be dropped off for free.

Scrap metal merchants can remove old cars and other metal waste.

Residents are urged to report illegal dumping activity on 131 555 or at ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au

For more information about illegal dumping visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/illegaldumping or phone the council on 6581 8111.