The Crisafulli Government is putting illegal dumpers on notice, backing 52 councils with expanded surveillance technology and targeted night-time operations to catch offenders.
Illegal dumpers in Burdekin are being put on notice, with the Crisafulli Government funding a dedicated officer to help Burdekin Shire Council catch offenders and clean up the local community.
Burdekin Shire Council will receive $270,000 through the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program to strengthen local compliance, surveillance and enforcement.
The funding will support a dedicated Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer focused on identifying illegal dumping, investigating incidents and building cases against offenders.
The three-year tenured position will provide a focussed effort of preventing waste materials entering waterways in three main areas along the Burdekin River and Anabranch as well as the northern and southern boundaries.
It is part of a $13.7 million investment over three years by the Crisafulli Government to support 52 Queensland councils in the fight against illegal dumping.
Across Queensland, councils cleaned up more than 13,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste last year – equivalent to more than 1,200 garbage truck loads.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said illegal dumping was a scourge on local communities across Queensland.
“Illegal dumping is a scourge on communities like the Burdekin. It damages our environment and leaves locals footing the bill to clean it up,” Minister Powell said.
“Queenslanders deserve to live in clean communities and enjoy the lifestyle that makes our State such a great place to live.
“If you think you can dump rubbish in the bush, on the side of the road or in the community and get away with it, think again.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said empowering Burdekin Shire Council to take proactive action on illegal dumping was a crucial step towards providing cleaner community spaces that everyone can enjoy.
“The new Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer will have the tools at their hands to properly investigate incidents and hold those offenders to account.,” Mr Last said.
“It’s no secret the Burdekin is renowned for the lifestyle it provides especially when it comes to our beaches, creeks and river systems. By doing our part to mitigate illegal dumping we ensure our favourite spots to get outdoors with our family remain pristine for generations to come.”
It's alarming to read that Queensland councils cleaned up over 13,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste last year; that's a massive amount. The new funding and the dedicated Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer for Burdekin are fantastic steps, especially with the focus on protecting waterways like the Burdekin River. It's vital we preserve these areas, ensuring clean environments where families can enjoy the outdoors, perhaps even having fun with unblocked games 66 on their devices after a day exploring.