Issue Date: -
Tuesday, 3 February 2004
Short Weight Firewood Merchant Fined Again
James Hersey (61) of Jandakot and his company JR & A Hersey Pty Ltd have been fined $800 with costs of $237 in the Perth Court of Petty Sessions for offences including supplying less firewood than what was paid for.The company was convicted of similar offences in November 2002.
"Consumers have the right to receive the exact amount of firewood that they order and pay for, not just 75% as was the case here", Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.
Mr Hersey also pleaded guilty for failing to provide a consumer with documentation relating to the transaction as required by regulations. The documentation (delivery ticket) provides written evidence of what is ordered compared to what is received by a consumer.
Chief Stipendiary Magistrate Stephen Heath told Mr Hersey that he needed to carefully examine his business practices because a court could impose far higher penalties for subsequent convictions.
"Our message to firewood suppliers is that in addition to being out there checking, we will respond with vigour to any consumer complaints of short weights and prosecution can be expected", Mr Walker said.
In the lead-up to winter each year Consumer Protection receives numerous calls concerning firewood. Advice and assistance is available by telephoning 1300 30 40 54 for the cost of a local call state-wide.
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