Arabic version: تم تغريم مجموعة مانيلدرا بمبلغ 170,000 دولار بسبب حادث تسرب الحبوب

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has ordered the Manildra Group to spend $170,000 on community projects following a significant grain spill incident. This spill, which occurred in October 2024, involved approximately 2,000 tonnes of wheat spilling into the Shoalhaven River after two grain silos collapsed at the Bomaderry facility.

According to ABC News, the incident led to the evacuation of dozens of workers and triggered a two-week multi-emergency response to stabilize the site. The EPA’s investigation, alongside SafeWork NSW, is ongoing to determine the cause of the collapse, which remains unknown.

The funds from Manildra will support projects including foreshore protection and bank stabilisation, among other community benefits. Stephen Beaman, the EPA’s executive director of operations, emphasized the seriousness of the incident and the importance of immediate action to mitigate environmental impact.

Despite the scale of the spill, water monitoring has indicated no significant environmental harm to the river. However, the EPA stated that the incident warranted strong regulatory action to ensure accountability. Furthermore, the EPA has directed Shoalhaven Starches to engage an independent expert to conduct an Environmental Hazard Analysis to help prevent future pollution incidents.

Manildra Group, which employs about 350 people at its Shoalhaven Starches plant, has also been instructed to enhance community communication through a consultative committee. This committee will facilitate discussions between the company and local stakeholders regarding operations and environmental performance.