A bakery worker in Sydney's fashionable eastern suburbs has been summarily dismissed after being caught on camera brazenly pouring used cooking oil directly into a stormwater drain. The incident, which occurred outside The Grumpy Baker in Coogee on Sunday, was filmed by a concerned passerby who subsequently shared the damning footage online.
Viral Video Leads to Swift Dismissal
The brief two-second video clip rapidly gained traction across social media platforms, provoking widespread outrage among viewers. Many called for the immediate termination of the worker and urged authorities to launch a formal police investigation into the blatant act of environmental pollution.
Michael Cthurmer, the owner of The Grumpy Baker, confirmed to Nine News on Thursday that the individual depicted in the video was indeed a staff member and that he had been fired in response to the incident. "We were devastated to see this and have never encountered something like this before in our 24 years of running The Grumpy Baker," Cthurmer stated emphatically.
Re-Training and Reinforced Procedures
In the wake of the controversy, the bakery management has taken proactive steps to prevent any recurrence. "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," Cthurmer explained, highlighting the company's commitment to responsible environmental practices.
Serious Environmental and Legal Consequences
Disposing of chemicals, oils, paints, or litter down stormwater drains is strictly illegal across Australia, as these systems connect directly to local waterways. The improper dumping of cooking oil can inflict severe damage on the surrounding environment, critical infrastructure, and vulnerable wildlife populations.
Randwick City Council has initiated a formal investigation into the matter. A council spokesperson warned that individuals convicted of offences related to stormwater pollution could face substantial fines of up to $30,000. "This is a serious water pollution incident, and our Senior Environmental Officers are currently investigating the matter," the spokesperson declared. The council also extended its gratitude to those who reported the incident.
Cooperation with Authorities
The Grumpy Baker is fully cooperating with the ongoing Randwick City Council investigation. Meanwhile, Sydney Water has seized the opportunity to remind cafes, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses of the paramount importance of properly training their staff in safe oil disposal methods.
Businesses are encouraged to utilise free collection services for their used oil. The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) underscores this message on its official website: "The drain is just for water - chemicals, oils, paints and litter don't belong there. Do not allow anything other than clean rainwater to enter the stormwater drain on or near your premises."
As of now, the dismissed worker has not been charged, but the investigation remains active, underscoring the serious ramifications of such environmental negligence.
