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A video circulating on social media captured a man with a large container outside the Grumpy Baker in Coogee on Sunday. The footage shows him allowing oil to flow directly into a roadside drain.
The clip quickly drew widespread attention, sparking outrage among the community. Viewers condemned the man’s behavior, labeling it as “pure laziness,” “disgusting,” and “such a shame.”
Michael Cthurmer, the owner of the Grumpy Baker, confirmed to 9news.com.au that the individual in the video is indeed an employee of the bakery.
“We were devastated to see this and have never encountered something like this before in our 24 years of running The Grumpy Baker,” Cthurmer expressed.
“We were devastated to see this and have never encountered something like this before in our 24 years of running The Grumpy Baker,” he said.
Cthurmer said he has dismissed the man and will retrain all his remaining staff on safe oil disposal.
“We have been in constant contact with all of our stores and staff since the weekend, to reiterate and retrain on our standards and procedures,” he said.
The Randwick City Council is investigating the matter and said these types of offences can result in fines of up to $30,000.
“This is a serious water pollution incident, and our Senior Environmental Officers are currently investigating the matter,” a council spokesperson said.
“We would like to thank the people who quickly reported this incident, and remind the community and local businesses of their environmental obligations and that incidents like this are unacceptable.”
The Grumpy Baker is working with the council in the investigation.
Oils can solidify in pipes and drains, which can lead to major blockages.
Businesses must collect waste oil into sealed containers and organise an oil recycler collection.
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