Council Cracks Down on Illegal Dumping

Charters Towers Regional Council is taking a firm stance against illegal dumping, urging residents and visitors to report any illegal dumping to encourage all to respect the environment and follow proper waste disposal methods.

Illegal dumping continues to be a significant issue, not only polluting the region’s natural beauty but also endangering wildlife, livestock, and human health.

Councillor Steven Plant emphasised the need for collective responsibility stating littering and illegal dumping continues to plague the region.

"This behaviour pollutes our environment, diminishes the use, enjoyment and value of our public places for residents and visitors to the region.

This action is unacceptable, and we must all do our part to protect our region.

We all celebrate the freedom that camping and recreational activities offer across the region, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the great outdoors, but if we are continually forced to clean up after grubs, we will have no choice but to review the status quo.”

Penalties for littering and illegal dumping under the Waste Reduction & Recycling Act 2011 range from fines of up to $4,839 for general littering, and up to $161,300 for illegal dumping.

In response to recurring incidents, Council is increasing surveillance and public awareness efforts.

"Respect the scene, keep it clean, and don’t be a grub.  And no… hiding all your rubbish inside an abandoned tent is still illegal dumping," stresses Cr Plant.

Charters Towers Regional Council urges the community to take responsibility in preserving the region’s natural spaces, as everyone plays a role in keeping our parks, waterways, and reserves pristine for future generations.

To report illegal dumping, visit:

https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/circular-economy-waste-reduction/litter-illegal-dumping/report or use Council’s reporting service, Send Snap Solve.

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Photo: Illegal Dumping at Big Bend