Sweet smell of

By Melissa Donchi
THINGS are smelling better for Coldstream residents after a directions hearing determined that a dispute between the Shire of Yarra Ranges and operators of the Coldstream Compost Facility, Australian Native Landscapes (ANL), would be resolved at VCAT.
Shire representatives along with two Coldstream residents, Tony King and Peter Brasier, attended the hearing and were also invited to observe the mediation process.
Shire spokesman James Martin said it was a good sign that the community was allowed representatives. “It was a big concern for us that local community voices wouldn’t be heard in the hearing,” Mr Martin said. “It’s very positive that Mr King and Mr Brasier will observe the mediation process at VCAT.”
As a result of the hearing the EPA has put up a Pollution Abatement Notice (PAN), which outlines the measures ANL must abide by to control the smell.
“You could say we’re hopeful but also sceptical of what difference these new measures will make,” Mr King said. “Some progress has been made, which is a good thing, but it’s a long way from being over yet.”
The Liberal member for Evelyn, Christine Fyffe, said the issue was progressing but at a slow pace.
“There are still many days when the smell is appalling,” Ms Fyffe said. “It’s really important that residents continue to telephone the EPA to register their complaint if the odours continue to bother them.
“It does appear that the EPA have been slow to react and I urge them to be more proactive,” Ms Fyffe said. “Each week I have people coming into my office complaining about the smell.”
Councillor Janette McRae said she was looking forward to a speedy resolution. “The smell is digusting,” she said. “It’s impacting their lifestyles and their ability to have a life.”
The smell emanating from the Coldstream Compost Facility has caused more than 800 residents to register complaints with the EPA since June last year.