Hard stance on illegal dumping keeps our region’s natural assets safe

Published 10 July 2023

Nine defendants will face Magistrate Court fines of up to $57,500 each, following Moreton Bay Regional Council’s recommendation to prosecute offenders caught dumping waste in excess of 2500 litres.

Council is cracking down on illegal dumping across the region to show its commitment to ‘Going Green as we Grow’.

Mayor Peter Flannery said illegal dumping was not only illegal and an unsightly mess, but it also presented a biohazard and bushfire risk to the environment.

“Locals love living in Moreton Bay because we have all the perks of vibrant urban centres while being connected to so much natural beauty - from our pristine waters to our stunning hinterland,” he said.

“These illegal dumping sites can be made up of dangerous material like chemicals that can cause bushfires or put our community and environment at risk.

“Our Council officers have compiled a host of evidence through mobile CCTV cameras deployed around our region and other means that will be presented in court.

“There’s no excuse for illegal dumping in Moreton Bay, especially when Council offers free waste disposal at our tips throughout the region.

“So consider this is a warning to anyone thinking about illegally dumping that we are taking this issue very seriously and it’s only a matter of time before you’re caught.

“Council is committed to building a bright future where the environment we all love is protected and prosecuting alleged offenders is just one way we’re doing that.”

Council allows Moreton Bay residents free tipping (capped at 3 tonnes or 26 visits per year) - click here for all waste-related information: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Waste-Recycling