By Mitchell Clarke and Danielle Kutchel
A Clyde North cattle farmer has had three cows from her herd die after they consumed Styrofoam, believed to have been from building sites almost a kilometre away.
Ida Van Buiten is calling on builders working in housing developments to clean up their mess after strong winds often result in Styrofoam and other rubbish strewn across her farm.
“The cows are like kids, they’re curious, some will eat it and some won’t,” Ms Van Buiten said.
“It’s just a cruel thing though, because it means they get completely blocked and can’t pass anything, so everything was coming up.”
After one cow dropped dead, Ida made the decision to shoot two others who had ingested the deadly insulation after she felt they were suffering.
“They were drinking a lot of water and they barely got up, they looked tired and depressed with their heads down,” she said.
The cows, which were about 16-18 months of age, were inspected by knackery workers, who confirmed Ida’s suspicions, finding their intestines filled with the Styrofoam.
She claims she’s not the only farmer in the area to be experiencing the repercussions of carelessness on the building site, with at least four other farmers reporting sick livestock as a result.
“I’m worried it’s just going to keep happening, and you know, how are you able to run a business when running at a loss?” she said.
City of Casey manager sustainability and waste Michael Janson confirmed he is aware of the issue, with officers attending the property.
“Under council’s local law, builders are required to contain litter secured within their site,” Mr Janson said.
“Last week, officers inspected the area and are in the process of issuing 11 infringements for litter and site non-compliances.”
Fines for non-compliance are currently $300 per infringement.
Council has also stated they’re in the process of employing a dedicated building sites enforcement officer, who was approved as part of the 2019/20 budget. The recruitment process is set to commence shortly.
The officer will work with developers and builders to reduce non-compliance on sites, and hold them accountable if they do not comply.
