The crash scene in 1980. Pic: NBN screenshot
Lyne MP Rob Oakesott fears the 30-year-old toxic chemical spill on the Pacific Highway might not be the only contaminated roadside area on the Mid-North Coast.
“What is starting to emerge from calls to my office is that there are other truck accident sites where drums of unknown substances were buried by the side of the road,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“I have referred a specific location to NSW Roads and Maritime Services, but anyone with any recollections of roadside burials of dangerous materials should come forward now so other potential sites can be investigated and, if necessary, cleaned up.”
The MP has written written to NSW Police Minister Michael Gallacher seeking a review of the circumstances in which two former police officers were discharged from the force following a toxic chemical spill on the Pacific Highway in 1980.
Mr Oakeshott has sought a review of the case on behalf Terry Clifton, who still lives in the region, and his former colleague Bob Deards.
“Both men have come forward with extraordinary accounts of what happened at the accident scene near Herons Creek on December 4, 1980, where they spent more than 10 hours clearing away DDT and other toxic chemicals, and of the months and years of ill health that followed,” Mr Oakeshott said. “This is an outstanding health and safety issue involving two former police officers who, at the very least, deserve to have their cases reviewed.
“Both police officers were discharged on medical grounds and both were considered not to have been hurt on duty.
“It is within the power of the NSW Police Minister to look at the circumstances of these two men who, after 30 years, are still fighting for a just outcome.”
