Illegal dumping incident sparks fines and massive clean up

Four people have been fined a total of $8,540 following a recent illegal dumping at the Moranbah Town Common which outraged the entire community.

Isaac Regional Council has issued four offenders penalty infringement notices to the value of $2,135 each.

A total of 15.86 tonnes - twice the weight of an average elephant or about the same weight as a cruise ship’s anchor - has been disposed of.

Mayor Anne Baker praised the great detective work from Council officers and the community’s action in reporting illegal dumping activities to 1300 ISAACS.

“Well done everyone for providing useful information in tracing those responsible and a congratulations to our Council team for actioning this swiftly,” she said.

“If you see it, report it and that will help us stop it. Let’s keep Isaac tidy! Illegal dumping is a crime.

“Any person found to be illegally dumping will be penalised because they are intentionally harming our Isaac region’s native flora, fauna, and beautiful landscapes that make the Isaac region home.”

Mayor Baker said most of the waste that was picked up at this location would have been free at the landfill gate.

“If the illegal dumpers would have disposed of these safely and respectfully it would have cost them about $500 at the gate however the clean-up which did not include officer wages and time cost nearly $2000 to remove,” she said.

“Items that could be recycled are wasted, and the opportunity for reuse is lost. Collective action is required to achieve this vision of keeping the Isaac region tidy. By committing to our own responsible stewardship of the materials we consume, we can lead by example starting at home and where we work. We can influence those around us — family, friends and neighbours — to act responsibly.”

The heavy metal that was found like the engine blocks would have needed pre-treatment - draining of fluids like oil and coolant - and then charged at $57.00 per tonne (about $300.00 worth was found) in disposal fee at the waste management facility gate. The tyres are charged at $19.00 each and there were 10 found. 

For more information call Council’s Customer Service Centre available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1300 ISAACS (1300 472 227).

Published: 18th December 2020