Testimonials

Read what the residents of Cardup have said about the misery of living near Permacast.

 Have you kept notes of your experiences to add?  

Send them in to us.

                                                                                                                                                   These testimonials come from emails and Facebook and Diaries comments

13th February 2024

The noise emanating from Permacast today is absolutely horrendous and is driving me insane.

5th December 2023 1:33pm

Just got off the phone to the pollution watch line to make another complaint regarding the vibrations coming from Permacast today. It would seem they are making up for lost time.  

The vibrations are similar to those we experienced before the installation of the so called sound barrier. Again this still suggests to me that human intervention is still possible to gain vibration readings as required. You can look forward to more  daily complaints.

Mike Smowton 

05-12-23

keep phoning the complaint line about that horrible droning noise at Permacast, Its loud this morning 

Sue Symonds

5th December 2023

Just got off the phone to DEWA  to complain about the vibration again, Permacast seem to be making up for lost time and going for it.

Mike Smowton 

3rd December 2023

The vibrations started at around 7 am this morning and continued until around 10 am. We have a horrible feeling going through our bodies while the noise is ongoing.

The beeping is also ongoing. A decrease in noise from absolutely horrendous to horrendous does not make it liveable. The low frequency noise was far louder this morning 01/12 /2023 compared to the last test conducted by DWER on 22/11/2023.

I could hear the low frequency machine noise from inside my bedroom and clearly from my backyard while working in my vegetable garden. Do I have to live with this irritating noise for the rest of my life?

 I can imagine the noise getting worse as production ramps up and they are under pressure to get the casting products to site. 

The dust and water pollution continues.

This morning only after they saw me investigating the source of the noise 9.00am did they switch on the sprinklers to douse the dust blowing from the facility.

Nothing has been done to reassure us that the contaminants in cement and any other chemicals used on this site are not leaching into our ground water. In fact the measures now in place allow for more contamination.

The rape of the bush forever continues. It is depressing to see the way this piece of land is abused.

The noise today was not related to work on the car park as we did not see any work being conducted on the parking  Bay Area or the driveway.

We should not be responsible for policing this illegal facility which has been constructed with no planning, and no consideration given to the sensitive residents.

It is disappointing that a company that has ignored every environmental and legal requirement is condoned, promoted and rewarded with government contracts.

This plant continues to grow and the operators are more and more emboldened. 

John McEwan

2nd December 2023  8:05am

Thanks for your email, the content of which comes as no surprise. I have suspected Permacast have had the ability to manipulate the operation of the stressing beds to obtain the necessary outcomes when required. This opinion has already been submitted in writing to local council.

The point I find strange is, on the 15 Nov we were effected by vibration from your testing at the Permacast site for a few hours in the morning. We didn’t notice any vibration from the testing carried out on the 22nd However since then we have summitted a complaint to the DEWA pollution hot line siting vibration emanating from the Permacast site on the 24th 25th 29th 30th 31st and today the 1st Dec (last date not reported) so what has changed in their operation since the 22nd?

You also suggested DEWA will continue to MONITOR the activities at Permacast, how will this be achieved? Or will this be left to the local residents to keep submitting complaints to the DEWA hot line?

You may recall I approached your office some months ago enquiring as to the status at Permacast as we were being impacted by vibration at all hours of the day and night. You suggested at the time Permacast were carrying out remedial work throughout the site to help mitigate some of the dust problems. At the time I questioned if you or one of your inspectors  had confirmed this fact or were  Permacast actually  continuing to operate in breach of the notice. I didn’t receive a reply to this question!

I sincerely hope that anything DEWA and the local council can implement to further reduce the impact this facility is having on the local community, will happen sooner rather than later. While there have been some small improvement the situation is still intollable and needs to be ratified as soon as possible, peoples health and well being are being put at risk!   

Cardup Resident Mike

2nd December 2023  10:15am

No surprise that dwer released their position /findings the day after submissions to council close.

The entire extra information rants were a set up and planned exactly how it turned out.

Chris was 100 percent correct on how the operations at permacast are altered on testing days. The corruption between permacast, dwer and council is clear to me.

I hope the ombudsman investigation can clear it up.

The problem is very simple. Permacast is untouchable because of government contracts. Dwer and council are government run so they obey the puppet masters that are worried about contract timeframes and MONEY.

Dwer backflips occurred only after their initial investigation resulted in a EPN. Once the puppet masters higher up were notified of possible delays to concrete products, the dwer immediately made their conclusion and kept up appearances and their involvment to mask the wrongful outcome they had already decided.

The whole thing went from inspectors feeling physiological detrimental effects to "everything is fine and mitigation measures were effective".

There is barely a change in noise and vibration and the level of discomfort has been  manipulated on testing days like Chris said.

It seems impossible to get any  truths when the investigators are effectively investigating their own boss. Test reports have never been available, only basic overview summaries and conclusions. The earlier Peer reviews have been ignored even when the key points are all about wrongly assigned levels and manipulated calculations for PREDICTIONS. It points out that all testing by LGA are not trustworthy and it shows that Permacast are just plain DODGY!
Concerned Cardup Resident

1st December 2023 

Very Loud noises 5am this morning.

Chris Smowton

21st November 2023

0900 hrs 21Nov the HEAVY vibrations started again. The low frequency is modulating and there is NO difference to its intensity in comparison to earlier periods this year. The general consistent noise disturbance continues as usual.

Concerned Cardup Resident Thursday 16th Nov, 2023

The supplied documentation in the submission for retrospective approval  Reference: 22107633-03  REVOLVES around these words and a few others of similar meaning –PREDICTED - ESTIMATED – UNLIKELY – NOT EXPECTED.

The ESTIMATED sound levels are just a prediction. The predictions come from a standard ISO 9613. This uses multiple “influencing factors” which are used in an algorithm.

The influencing factors have been given the highest allowable figures in order to give a favourable result when predicting the propagation of sound.

They have drastically reduced the end ESTIMATED decibel result by using the maximum allowable factors in their algorithm....

The  factors are, 1 - Baker Hall on Karbro Drive (this is a silent premise that has been classed as commercial). 2  - Transport factors from the roads surrounding the effected residences (this pertains to Baker Hall commercial and Permacast industrial) Calculated to maximum effect of 6dB.  3 -They have even used their own industrial premise as a deduction which is crazy as they are the cause of disturbance.

This can all be seen in Reference: 22107633-03 Page 22

Appendix A – Influencing Factor Calculation of the documentation they submitted to council.

The use of standard ISO 9613 was already questioned by DWER and by a PEER review acoustics expert because so much of the calculation is up to the USERS JUDGEMENT. They were asked to explain why they used ISO 9613 and asked to provide a comparison using the CONCAWE standard algorithm. I don’t think this has been provided.

I’M SURE EVERYONE THAT READS THIS WOULD BE DISGUSTED WITH THE SUBMISSION TO COUNCIL.

Concerned Cardup Resident

                                                              Below from Cardup and Surrounds Facebook

                                                                      Cardup Country Surrounds Facebook

                                                                                         Colin’s Post

                                                                                           30th Nov 23

16th November 2023

Permacast are really going for it today, noise is shocking.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Wednesday 15th November 2023   11:04am

The noise coming from Permacast at the moment is ridiculous. I am sitting trying to work in my garage, and it is very loud.

This was at 10:50 VERY Loud. It has toned down a bit, but this is just ridiculous that we have to listen to this, and we live 400 metres down Karbro Drive. The poor people on Soldiers Road, and Permacast want to ramp it up to a 24 hour operation. Let’s see if the owners of Permacast could sleep with that noise.

Sue Symonds

 14th November 2023

Got a flyer in mail box about Permacast retrospective application & submission are due on 30th Nov. I have not received from the Shire a submission for this as we'd be deemed to far & not in the radius. The Shire needs to expand the radius & give an extension for submissions this can be done contact the CEO & Andrew Trosic from planning, the radius is usually 500mtr but needs to be at least 1.5 ks because this applications problems are far more reaching, this Shire is notorious for retrospective due to large dirty industry taking it to SAT so more submissions & pushing Shire to fight it in SAT is needed, so whoever is the loudest & spokesperson for this needs to contact these Shire people asap.

Karina Baker

14th November 2023

We would like to know where all the run off of water will go with all the sealed area they have made up near the south west highway. It’s a huge area and doesn’t seem to be any drains put in, So what will it do flood to the lowest area or down the side of Norman Rd

I have put this question to DWER

Sue Symonds

12 Nov 2023

I just read the news from DWER that Permacast noise and vibration measures have been effective. Anybody within 1km of the site would disagree that there has been substantial reductions, if any.

Only one word can explain DWER views on the Permacast noise and vibration issues - potential CORRUPTION.

This also applies to their back flip on the classification of the Permacast operation which has effectively greatly reduced the need for compliance in a range of applicable regulations. DWER EMPHATICALLY REFUSE to even release the reasoning for their change of mind.

When findings defy all logic then there can only be one reason for the conclusions they reached. Anybody with a brain, a pair of ears and normal body and mind sensitivity would have a different opinion on the subject of noise and vibration pollution and its effects on local residents.

I strongly suspect that government authority figures are pulling the strings on the DWER puppets. They will do anything to get MASS PRODUCTION started for their infrastructure projects – No matter what the cost to local residents.

If it makes no sense........then question it.

Let us all hope that our Local Councillors will not be pressured into putting their faith in findings from government controlled DWER puppets. Come on local council and stand up to the puppet masters and do the right thing for the area you govern. Rates alone generates $25 million pa (2022). You would think that would pay for a service to prevent bullying from authorities high up in the food chain.

Concerned Local Resident - Name Supplied.

 12th November 2023

Karina, if you look back at the 10th November, there are two entries there from Christine & Michael, who both talk of violent vibrations throughout that day, emanating from Permacast. I suspect that, may very well also have contributed to the collapse of their container wall yesterday, which simply goes to prove just how damaging Permacast can be to the residents in the area also. For those containers to remain stacked three high as they are, would be very unsafe for anybody near, or around them during their work, or otherwise. The containers do not serve as a sound barrier, the reason they are there is so the people can’t see what Permacast are doing.

HMR

11th November 2023

Has it been reported & it definitely needs to be reported to Shire because it would be interesting what, if any pad they had this on, seriously if this happened on a mine site work safe & OHS would be involved & there'd be hell to pay

Karina Baker

 11th November 2023

Also, try building a wall in this Shire, how did they get approval for sea containers on top of each other, or don't they have approval, I suggest someone contact the new Council President because unless this is actually inspected they can just stand it up again

karina Baker

 11th November 2023

Well it didn't take long for the house of cards to come tumbling down, and last night wasn't particularly windy by Cardup standards. Doesn't look good for the rest summer, does it!!

Mike Smowton

11 November 2023

Pretty sad they don't understand how powerful the easterly winds are, just goes to show if it can take down sea containers can they imagine how all their concrete dust gets shoved down people's throats downwind, & how far it travels, no buffer zone can accommodate keeping their crap within the boundaries.

Karina Baker

11th November 2023

We would like to take this opportunity to complement some of our very concerned, and helpful residents for their input & Support today. They were most helpful on all counts, and it was most appreciated.

Support Team

11 Nov 2023  11:12am Saturday

Fellow Residents, the big clean-up has started. I missed the big clean up, the removing of, and the scrapping of the containers but, I caught a glimpse of the final push. The Concrete Cowboys using Big Boy Bulldozer, to clean up the area with dust and crap flying everywhere.

John McEwan

On Sat., 11 Nov. 2023, 9:49 am 

I heard them fall sometime between 7 and 8 this morning.

11-11-2023 

Just heard a rumour that two containers have blown down from the Permacast sound wall.

10th November 2023

08.00 Aware of vibration impacting the house. Intermittent, starting strongly then fading away. As the morning progressed the vibration became stronger, and more intense depending on which room of the house we were in, the smaller room like hallways etc, it was far more intense, and was going through my body, and my head. It was horrendous, it was driving me mad.   Vibration levels reduced around 12:30pm. 

I contacted the “Health Department” at the Serpentine Jarrahdale shire to voice my concerns. I was informed there was nobody available at the particular time to speak to. I asked to speak to somebody else who may be able to assist, and was put through to Helen Ball, PA to the Director Development Services.  I explained the situation to her. Ms Ball explained it wasn’t a local Government issue, and although sympathetic, suggested I register my complaint with DEWR, which I had already intended to do. I did ask however, if the Shire could make a follow up call to DEWR to reinforce the fact. that local residents are being subjected to unacceptable noise levels that are affecting their health and general well being, and all coming from the permacast site. 

I contacted DWER and registered my complaint. Shortly after I received a phone call from a member of the Shire's “Health Team” He indicated he had complied with my request, and also spoken to DWER regarding the issue. Unfortunately, this particular member of staff wasn’t that familiar with the Permacast debacle, as he had only commenced employment with them a short time ago. I explained to him very briefly what had happened since 2006. He appeared very surprised that such a thing could have happened, siting the requirements for DWER licenses etc. I suggested that he was certainly not alone in wondering how Permacast had been permitted to operate illegally for such a long period of time before requesting a retrospective license.  Maybe given time he may unearth some relevant information hidden in the Shires archives that may explain it all???

Michael Smotwon

10th November 2023

Vibration all morning since 8am.  I came out of the study, and it was just like an earth quake and the vibration was just awful. I Felt sick & dizzy as a result. This constant noise and vibration is soul destroying. 

Christine Smowton

09 November 2023

I have diary notes regarding 3 weekends of alarms. Each time we contacted police with no result.

However, the third weekend in a row we had had enough. My husband phoned DWER and reported noise pollution from Permacast to them and I phoned the Police & reported the problem, and asked for immediate action which they did. I also told them that it had also been reported to DWER.

Police contacted the security company to turn alarm off immediately remotely, and to contact the owner to change his alarm system. That was ordered by police, thank god.

Mental health issue, that alarm was driving us all to breaking point.

The alarm started at 5am Saturday, yet the owner told the shire it was their alarm, even though the security company’s number is on the gate .

The shire are useless, they believe everything Permacast tells them .

If anyone else hears that alarm or any other noise disturbance from Permacast please report it to police 131444 for action immediately.

Thank you 

Nicole Marriott

Monday 6th November 2023

Today is weirdly quite, but strangely the car park is full. What is happening over there, they are hiding behind the wall.

John McEwan

Saturday 4th November 2023

This morning they were going flat out, lots of noise hammering and banging. It was very loud full on all day.

John McEwan

Saturday 4th November 2023

This morning the noise is terrible again. Particularly mobile machinery alarms and general noise are relentless. Heavy banging etc. Easterly wind making it even worse. Started at 0700 today Saturday 4 November. I can hear it INSIDE my house so cannot escape it at all.

Question is,

Is data being collected on this subject or just stressing beds?

On the day of dwer testing permacast was NOT performing normal everyday activities regarding utilising all their machinery etc. That day of testing is in no way a representation of a standard day of disturbance. Testing day was less windy too.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Friday 3rd November 2023 2:57pm

Permacast are still running full steam, their parking bay packed out, at the start of the morning shift. I reported a continuous alarm on Saturday morning, the police said they would investigate but when I phoned to get a report number........still waiting!  

John McEwan

2nd November 2023 

Spoke to the police and told them about the bloody noise that has gone on all night sometimes.  The security voice and other stuff when working 24/7. We have complained, but no one replies including Reece Jones and other powers that be. Obviously the residents of Cardup don’t matter.  We are becoming desperate for help from anyone in a position that counts to stop this constant abuse. It is unbearable and soul destroying, wrecking our entire lives!  I think it is my brain vibrating!!  I am at my wits end.

Chris Smowton

Thu. 2 Nov. 2023, 6:55 pm

I know the testing went ahead yesterday. Permacast were operating today, I don’t know what they were operating because the wall hides everything. Plenty of machine noise, beeping, crane track  noise and just a general hum emitted from the facility. This noise continued until about 1 pm. Trucks bringing in supplies have also started. Saw two arriving while out running this morning. 

John McEwan

Thursday, 2 November 2023 4:23 PM
 My registered complaint yesterday was from when I got home 0915 to 10am.  Likely the Eastern boundary stressing bed at that time. Then it was a faint noise but not often.

After that noise was reduced, I think that they moved to West side of yard. Not sure though because I can't see them.

Yesterday they certainly had minimal machine movements , probably due to dwer on site and the reverse alarms would get them in trouble.

Not sure about today as it is pretty quiet. Some reversing alarms but more faint than usual. I think there are less people on site because normally I wake up to the employee’s cars screaming past in very early hours and then going home in arvo.

My dwer complaint number was closed out within hours because of the already existing investigation.

I registered complaints for the 0915 to 10am period with dwer, permacast and shire and mentioned that I was aware of the test permission but wanted to be on record that vibration was affecting me.

Concerned Cardup Resident

 1st November 2023 17:34

Regarding Permacast, apart from a ten minute period this morning when I could feel the vibrations, its been one of the quietest days in a long time. I think they are playing with our heads as Chris heard noises since 4 am this morning. 

Michael Smowton

1st November 2023 10:22am

I was awoken from 4:30am by Permacast, and it went until about 9 this morning. Then there was a different vibe after that, but all quiet now.

Christine Smowton

01/11/2023

This morning residents of Cardup rang the DWER hotline as they were told to do, to register a complaint. However, when they did so, all they got was a recorded message, so were unable to report what was occurring at Permacast at that time. It seems that as today is the organised testing day, and the complaint line is coincidently dead, and all other DWER phones were on “Out of office until further notice” messages, that someone is running interference, thus stopping those calls from getting through and being registered. The residents were told two different stories, one being that there was a technical fault, that has now been rectified, and the other was DWER were having a team meeting! Nothing was heard until the following day, and then only after further requests for answers were made. This behaviour leaves one thinking that “Something smells rotten in the state of Denmark”

Anonymous

30th October 2023 11:26am

Heck it’s been going on all month and this morning I swear it woke me up at about 4.30am, and then went on till about 9.30am.  We have made note of that too. 

Christine Smowton

30 Oct 2023

0800am  Low frequency vibration – intermittent. Don’t know when it stopped – I had to leave my own home as it drives me crazy and makes me extremely short tempered.

Mental wellness is extensively promoted by government organizations. Individual mental wellbeing is important to them unless it impacts PERMACAST operations which effects the supply of concrete products to GOVERNMENT projects!!!

The solution is simple – Move this heavy industry to a SUITABLE location away from residential areas. 

All of this comes down to money and contractual obligations that seem to outweigh any of our concerns regarding noise, vibration and pollution.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Oct 27th2023 

8.30am  -  stronger vibrations intermittent, all day.  Contacted Shire and DWER & complained.

Christine & Michael Smowton

27 Oct 2023

0700am Relentless multiple reversing alarms all day and intermittent vibrations.

Concerned Cardup Resident

27 October 2023 3:52 PM

My question to DEWER is, was the test carried out today? as we have been subjected to low pitched vibrations which started at 08.30 this morning and continued for the majority of the afternoon. This vibration has occurred nearly every other day over the last month. As your department placed the prevention order on the company to prevent them from operation in the stressing bed area, do any members from your department actually visit site to witness what is actually going on, or is it easier to turn a blind eye or in this case ear?

Mike Smowton

26 Oct 2023

0700am The usual noise and vibration. Vibration stop at 0900am. General noise continues.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Oct 26th2023 

Oh,my Lord, come on People we’ve got to do something. My heart and brain hate this vibration.

Maureen Tucci

25 Oct 2023

0800am Low tone vibrations and loud noise, stop at1225pm. Restart1445pm and intermittent for the rest of the day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

24 Oct 2023

0930am Vibrations and constant loud reversing alarms all day. Today it almost seems like they park the machine near the road, activate the reversing alarm and just walk away.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Oct 24th2023

9.30 am -  intermittent Vibrations

Christine & Michael Smowton

20th October 2023

Today, we noticed vibration from about 7.45 am to some way just before 10am. It was intermittent but however, this vibration has been going on for the past two weeks. 

Mike Smowton

20th October 2023

The great wall of containers is an eyesore, but again, they have been allowed to build it right before everyone's eyes. It will serve no purpose other than to block the view of anyone trying to see what they are doing .

Anonymous

Oct 20th2023

7.45 am – 10am Intermittent Vibrations

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 20th 2023  8:29pm

Good Morning Councillor Coales, Thankyou for your presentation. I have a few questions relating to an issue that is causing a great deal of stress for the Cardup residents. I am trying to understand how Permacast has managed to build an entire plant, and operate for so long without any approvals or licences. This also applies to their newly constructed sea container wall, which I doubt has any approval. Why hasn’t the Council taken any action against this illegal operation.

John McEwan

16-10-23

Heck fed up with it all really as taking over our lives but determined not to give up. The pollution is affecting our health especially me with ABPA, asthma and bronchiectasis.  The ground water becoming much more concentrated and coloured.

We’re going to ask about the road going through Bush Forever off Norman Road but I have just seen a Perrett Road, Whitby which leads through that and into the permacast facility.  So not sure about that one.

Christine Smowton

Oct 15th 2023  3:40pm

Permacast’s Great Wall of Cardup. Engineering at its best, a quick fix cheap solution for Permacast, once again at the expense of the residents of Cardup.

2 years 9 months later we are left with the Big Container Wall. NSW has the big banana, Queensland the big pineapple, Cardup the Big Shipping Container Wall. We should also get international interest from scientific institutions and universities around the world regarding cheap, quick fix solutions on how to build heavy duty industries close to residents, without any consideration for their welfare or wellbeing. Once again the Rich get richer, while the residents get shunted.

Gone are the days of buffer zones, gone are the days of regulation, just build huge industries and surround them with shipping containers. This way, they assume they have all technical issues under control.

John McEwan

Oct 14th2023     

vibrations all morning   

Christine & Michael Smowton

14 Oct 2023

0800am Saturday.  Vibration. Constant loud reversing alarms all day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

14th October 2023

Permacast is currently advertising multiple positions for the Cardup site because of their expansion. It seems they are very confident that they will succeed with the DAP application. This is just another indication that they have persuasive power with the decision makers. I believe this to be true based on past experience with SJ council. We should have been notified of the application to change the zoning at Robertson rd. Now that it has gone through, permacast have more argument in their favour to expand. Rezoning was a council decision. 

Permacast should be fined for their past actions and behaviour and be relocated, NOT rewarded with a go-ahead just because they already have infrastructure in place. Considering the amount of semi trailer trucks with construction materials going to the site, I think they are convinced of a DAP decision in their favour. I hope there is a strong easterly wind blowing on the day of the trial pour as this will have a huge effect on noise travelling our way.

Once again, thank you all for your active commitment to saving this area.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Sat., 14 Oct. 2023, 8:09

The noise from Permacast is a very low frequency drone which is difficult to record and it goes on all day. It just drives one mad. We have only experienced 1 stress-bed, they now have four operational waiting to be switched on. 

Other people complain of vibrations, I don’t suffer from this irritating issue .

The PN has forced a virtual closure of the casting plant and the erection of the shipping containers have completely allowed the group to do as they please, it’s now impossible to see what they are doing.

The size of the facility is large so they are able to hide what they are doing. It’s virtually impossible to control them, complicated by  Permapole and the batching plant who have licenses. Both companies have very little restrictions with regards to their working hours. 

John McEwan.

Oct 13th 2023

vibrations all morning

Christine & Michael Smowton

11 Oct 2023

0830am Low frequency vibration intermittent throughout the day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Oct 11th 2023

7am  -  vibrations all morning

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 9th 2023

8am – intermittent vibration throughout the day

Christine & Michael Smowton

9th October 2023

Bloody hell, I feel like death warmed up this morning. I reckoned it was going all day yesterday.  Last night it went on and on when I was reading in bed.  It stopped at 10.15 and so peaceful then. I was awoken about 4am and thumping again. My husband and I could both hear it, it’s time something was done about it. I’m not getting much sleep. Yawn, Yawn!!

Christine Smowton

Oct 8th 2023

Vibration All night can’t sleep

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 7th2023

Vibrations all night can’t sleep

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 6th2023

7am – 4pm low intermittent vibration all day

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 5th 2023

Low intermittent vibration

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 3rd 2023

3pm to 5pm - intermittent vibration

Christine & Michael Smowton

Oct 2nd 2023 2:51pm

I did not even realise until recently that this was happening in Cardup. I have noticed the ongoing noise. We only moved here 3 and a half years ago, and we are hoping to stay here. I cannot fathom how they can operate without any required permits while we have to ask the Shire for permission for just about everything.

Dot Wilson

Oct 1st 2023 3:46pm

I assume we’re all on the rainwater in Cardup. This must be going from our roofs straight into the water.

Dot Wilson

Oct 1st 2023 3.46pm

Yes, I can write my name on all my furniture, and god knows what it is doing to our lungs.

Maureen Tucci

Oct 1st 2023 3:46pm

Videos of dust issues from the Permacast plant filmed by Jesse McEwan and submitted to the Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel for their meeting on Friday the 8th September 2023.

Colin Richardson

Oct 1st 2023 1:21pm

Don’t really know why we pay rates, no support against illegal industries regardless of the fact that it is causing havoc with rate payers physical and mental wellbieng.

Maureen Tucci

Oct 1st 2023 1:21pm

Why aren’t the Shire doing anything about Permacast? What do we pay rates for!

Mark Smowton

Sept 30th 2023

8.52am – The vibrations have been especially bad this morning, not to mention the high pitched whine all night

Maureen Tucci

Sept 30th 2023

8.52am – The vibrations are always worse in the morning, it seems Permacast can do whatever they like ignoring the Residents of Cardup.

Christine Smowton

Sept 29th 2023

4.44am – Totally True, they are just working during the night, and still using the stressing beds. I can taste the cement dust, and my furniture is covered in grey dust from their sand blasting. It’s disgusting.

Maureen Tucci

Sept 29th 2023

4.44am – There is a suspension order in place, but Permacast seems to be ignoring it.

Colin Richardson

Sept 29th 2023

4.44am – The operations are still going on at Permacast, and my heart is beating to the stressing beds

Maureen Tucci

Sept 27th 2023

7.30am – low vibration intermittent all day

Christine & Michael Smowton

Sept 26th 2023

7.30am – 7.40am heavy vibration then low intermittent vibration all day

Christine & Michael Smowton

Sept 22nd 2023

7.30am – intermittent until 3.45pm. I don’t want a progress report on Permacast, I want it shut down.  Hearing the thud at 3.45am this morning.  My medical specialist said today that he was worried about the dust, with my lung condition.  

Christine & Michael Smowton

21/09/2023 2:31 PM

You read all the rules and regulations and think, hang on they are now going all bloody night over there.  Woke me up at 5.45 am and vibrating and thud, thud, thud.

The noise is going now, like a car engine revving outside in the driveway.  I have written a draft to DEWA. My Husband said “Don’t bother no one is going to listen or do anything about it. It is impacting on my health, and we are totally sick of it all.

This noise is getting to our ears.  How dare they carry on. 

Chris Smowton

21 Sep 2023

0850am Loud machine whining noise intermittent all day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

Sept 21st 2023

5.45am – intermittent until 2pm

Christine & Michael Smowton

21st September 2023

I live a few houses up from Karbro Drive &  Just about right opposite permacast.  The noise & Vibration from permacast is affecting my daughter’s horses. The noise is still going now, and sounds like a vehicle.

Anonymous

20th September 2023 4:16pm

The constant noise from Permacast just seems to take over our brains and we are so fed up with it all.

Christine Smowton

Sept 20th 2023  

11.30am intermittent Noise

Christine & Michael Smowton

19-09-2023 5:24

last week I felt that I was woken up at about 6.15am with the vibration even though they are not meant to be doing anything there.

Christine Smowton

18th September 2023 

Regarding Permacast’s illegal facility at Robertson Road, Cardup.

Statistics have already been stated and proved by numerous people and their reports (with no outcome) so I would now like to follow a more personal vein and also that of the Cardup resident’s health and wellbeing.

While the, so called clean up is now meant to be undertaken by Permacast, how have all the previous years of their illegal manufacturing affected the water we drink and the air we breathe?

We moved to Cardup for a rural lifestyle, with clean air and a peaceful environment.  Personally speaking, both myself and my husband have allergies and I have pulmonary problems and this certainly has become more severe in the last few years. When the easterly winds blow, I am so much worse due to the Permacast facilities dust/pollution. 

In March 2022,  our drinking water, even though it is filtered became much more concentrated with colour than in any previous years.  Possible due to the water being taken by Permacast or was it pollution from their facility leaching into the ground water.   

Since then we have decided to have bottled drinking water delivered to us.

How was it the Shire did not notice the huge, noisy, illegal set up/extensions to the Permacast facility during and after 2006?

I would also now like to read out President Rich’s profile that is featured on the Serpentine/Jarrahdale website, I quote, “Councillor Rich brings a solid understanding of new businesses and environmental issues to the Shire and is passionate about promoting Shire as a tourism destination whilst encouraging economically sustainable, environmentally sound developments that protect the character, lifestyle and rural history of the area.”

I doubt any ‘tourists’ would be very interested or impressed in seeing the disgusting, filthy, polluted eyesore on Robertson Road, or in viewing the concrete jungle ‘laydown’ area (which was once trees) which is adjacent to the South West Highway, Cardup.

Christine Smowton

Sept 15th 2023 

6.15 am Noise & Vibration

Christine & Michael Smowton

Sept 14th 2023

12 midday Continuing noise

Christine & Michael Smowton

Sept 12th 2023

5.15am The Noise continues

Christine & Michael Smowton

Sept 11th 2023

15am Noise & Vibration

Christine & Michael Smowton

11th September 2023

I am about

750m from the site and noise and vibration drives me insane when permacast are active and having detrimental effects on my overall health. Still plenty of noise and heavy vehicle traffic on karbro drive since the prevention notice.

Concerned Cardup Resident

10th September 2023

The noise & Vibration Is driving us nuts and taking over our lives. We just walked around the block to clear our heads. All the different noises that keep coming.

Christine Smowton

10th September 2023

I read the PN which told them to Stop work and it still remains in force so that should prevent any use of the stressing beds but doesn’t appear too.

Anonymous

Monday 4th September 2023 

Noise continued to be generated by the Permacast site. We registered a formal complaint, citing noise, date, time, duration etc. with the Serpentine Shire, Nothing further was heard, yet the noise and vibration continued to increase during this time. 

In March 2023 we received communication from the Shire indicating that Permacast was seeking retrospective approval to their existing facility. This was the first time we had been made aware that the facility had been operating without permission since 2006. They were also seeking approval for an extension which would see the site more than double in size and capacity. 

Given the already intolerable level of disturbance being generated by the site, any further increase in size or capacity will only lead to louder, more frequent noise and vibration levels, in addition to significantly higher emissions and pollution, which we have significant concerns about.

Given the lack of planning permission obtained, it can be inferred that there has been a similar lack of environmental impact evaluation conducted. This is concerning given the reliance of the local residents on ground water for their supplies of potable and domestic water. Without appropriate controls in place, emissions and run off from the Permacast facility are likely to impact our water supplies. 

In addition, the area zoned 'Bush Forever' on the southern boundary of Lot 60 has been used as a general dumping area for concrete waste and facility refuse. A road and gateway through this 'Bush Forever' zone has been constructed to give access to Norman Road, further demonstrating their disregard of local planning rules and regulations. The zoning of 'Bush Forever' was designed to preserve valuable habitat and breeding areas of endangered flora and fauna. 

The close proximity of the Permacast facility to Court Grammar School is also cause for concern. Our grandchildren attend this school and apparently it has been suggested to them that they bring their own drinking water.  The school uses filtered bore water for their potable water supply. 

On several occasions we have witnessed cement trucks traveling along Bishop Road to the intersection of Soldiers Road. This poses a significant risk of injury to children and carers given the heavy congestion in the area at pick up and drop off time.  There has been significant damage caused by these trucks to curbs and roadside verges. These issues would not occur were the facility to be located in an appropriate industrial area, away from schools, homes and narrow roadways. 

It is a mockery to apply for retrospective permission, and they continue to demonstrate their contempt for the regulations by going ahead with their expansion before approval has been given. The Cardup community deserves better.  

Christine Smowton

Monday 4th September 2023  12:43pm.

Due to the proximity of our property to the Permacast site, which is approximately 1 km away, our major concern is the noise being emitted from this facility. 

Mike Smowton

2nd September 23

I have a pressing concern that affects not only our community but also the environment we rely on for our well-being. The illegal concrete manufacturing operations conducted by Permacast, are wreaking havoc on our water, air, noise levels, and causing a surge in traffic congestion.

The  unregulated concrete production spews harmful chemicals and particulate matter into our air. This airborne pollution is more than just an inconvenience; it is a dire threat to our respiratory health. Our children, our elderly, all of us are at risk from the dangerous toxins being released into the air we breathe.

Permacast's recklessness extends to our precious water sources. Their disregard for proper wastewater treatment has led to the contamination of our water, endangering aquatic life and jeopardizing the availability of clean drinking water. This is an affront to our basic rights and an indictment of their careless approach to business.

The traffic congestion caused by Permacast's operations is a daily nuisance. Heavy trucks rumbling through our streets, hauling raw materials and finished products, not only add to our air quality problems with dust, but also endanger our road safety.

Permacast Industries continues to flout environmental regulations and jeopardize our community's well-being. These illegal activities need to be investigated thoroughly.

Mike Smowton

1st Sep 2023

1000am Pulsing droning low frequency vibrations intermittent all day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

31st Aug 2023

0700am Excessive noise. Banging and machine noise all day. Low tone vibrations intermittent all day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

August 23rd 2023

The "Jumbo Jet" noise from Permacast has been permeating Cardup for a number of years. This Permacast facility had been illegally operating since 2006, with no approval.

Prior to the new stressing bed being installed, there was one stressing bed.  The noise and vibration associated with that was completely different to what we have now.

Prior to the new stressing bed being commissioned, the noise was of a lower frequency.  However, since then, that is when we noticed the heavier vibration and the droning beating noise that sounded like a plane or helicopter in low flight overhead.

There would have been a lot more occasions when we have heard the noise but there did not seem any point in reporting it.

Christine & Michael Smowton

August 2023

The relentless noise generated by Permacast's operations is undermining our quality of life. It disrupts our tranquility, interferes with our sleep, and adds unnecessary stress to our daily lives. This noise pollution is not something we should accept in our community. It is a violation of our right to live in a peaceful environment, and it takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being.

Christine & Michael Smowton

August 24th 2023

6.30am to 12 midday Noise & Vibration

Christine & Michael Smowton

22nd August 2023

Why has this facility been allowed to set up and operate? We have lived at our current address for the last 20 years.  During the earlier few years we were aware of background noise which we assumed was being generated from the Permapole.  This noise was acceptable.  However, over more recent years the noise levels have increased to an unacceptable level.  During which time we have not been notified of any changes to the zoning of this area.  The timing of the increased noise level seems to coincide with the unauthorised expansion at the Permacast facility.  It would seem that Permacast have very little respect of anyone in the community or the authority of the Shire.  They seem to be acting with impunity.

Cardup is now affected by noise, pollution in the air and in the ground, heavy traffic near schools and degradation of roads because of this facility in Robertson Road.  Why has this company been allowed to become so huge and affect so many neighbouring residents in this community?

Michael & Christine Smowton

Aug 22nd 2023

0715am Heavy machine noise. Reversing alarms and loader noise. All day.

Concerned Cardup Resident

August 22nd 2023

6.30am to 11am intermittent vibration and humming noise

Christine & Michael Smowton

August 18th 2003

11.30am – 11.35am Really Loud Noise & really strong vibration today.

Christine & Michael Smowton

August 16th 2023

Noise & really strong vibration today, really loud noise to the extent that we visited the site to see what was going on.  Workforce seemed to be busy cleaning the area up of refuse along Robertson Road.

Christine & Michael Smowton

8th August 2023 3:48pm

We came here to Cardup to a rural/semi rural area for peace and quiet and now have to put up with sounds like jumbo jets landing all the time!!  No wonder my blood pressure was up this morning! There is no end to it!

Christine and Michael Smowton

17th May 2023

Friends wanted to buy a house in Cardup. Mind you who wants to live here now, the bloody noise from the permacast going from 7am this morning.  This is just not right and now they have a huge great yellow crane there that looks like the shipbuilding cranes in Glasgow.  No idea how that was allowed to happen there.

This is disgusting in a rural area, and should be in a heavy industry area further away from our homes.

Christine Smowton.

May 17th 2023

Noise & vibration today  started at 7am – intermittent all day.

Christine & Michael Smowton

April 28th 2023

Noise & vibration today 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

Christine & Michael Smowton

April 26th 2023

Noise & vibration today.

Christine & Michael Smowton

April 21st 2023

Noise & vibration today.

Christine & Michael Smowton

April 2023

This was when we found out from the Shire that the plant had been operating illegally

since inception.

Christine & Michael Smowton

March 2023

We wrote a complaint to the Shire after they sent us their ‘MOJDAP Application – Consultation and Referral.  Lot 60 Robertson Road Cardup – Concrete Manufacturing Facility requesting that they reply by the 16th May 2023. We did not hear a thing from them and so I suppose gave

up and just assumed they had already approved it.

Christine & Michael Smowton

In 2022 we became aware of loud droning noises, occurring regularly throughout the week. This noise was accompanied by vibrations which were occasionally so severe that the ceiling of the house would shake. On these occasions, the vibrations were of a low frequency and fluctuating, suggesting that there are variables in the process that would allow the vibration to be controlled to some degree.  This noise has a significant impact on our health and wellbeing.

We moved to Cardup in 2003 it was with the knowledge that the area was semirural and tranquil. The current continual disruption and noise creates a great deal of stress and anxiety.

Christine & Michael Smowton