The discovery of a military-style canister, believed to be a gunpowder cartridge, at Maitland’s rubbish tip caused the facility’s emergency closure.
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Police were called to Mount Vincent Waste Management Centre about 12.45pm yesterday after a staff member found the suspicious item at the East Maitland site.
A police spokeswoman said officers had immediately closed the tip as a precaution.
Australian Defence Force personnel were called to the scene to identify the object and determine whether it posed a risk.
The Mercury understands that neither Rural Fire Service or hazardous material crews from Fire and Rescue NSW were called to the tip, run by Maitland City Council.
Council development and environment manager David Simm said the canister appeared to be a cartridge used to house gun powder.
“Authorities are investigating how it may have found its way to the site and are inspecting the waste facility for any further evidence,” he said.
It is believed there was no threat to public safety and the tip was expected to be opened as usual today.