Council encourages community to call out illegal dumping

Lockyer Valley Regional Council is asking the community to help call out illegal dumping in the region.

Council’s Deputy Mayor and Waste Portfolio Councillor, Cr Jason Cook said illegal dumping was a community issue.

“Recently, a resident reported the finding of around 50 large car tyres within a Laidley Road reserve.

“Since February 2022, illegally dumped tyres have accounted for almost 20 per cent of all identified illegally dumped waste across the Lockyer Valley – with only general household waste being a larger contributor.

“Since July 2021, Council Officers have identified and removed more than 1550 tyres dumped across public lands and road reserves in the Lockyer Valley, at a cost to the whole community.

“Illegal dumping of waste has many social, financial and environmental implications for local councils and the community and that is something we need to address.

“Car owners are encouraged to take advantage of tyre dealers’ offers to dispose of their used tyres for a small fee when they take their car in for new tyres.

“Council also accepts a maximum of five domestic passenger tyres at the Gatton Transfer Station on payment of a small fee per tyre.

"Paying to dispose of the waste you generate is part of life across Australia and it’s not unique to our Council or a revenue raising exercise – it’s part of being a good citizen.

“Illegal dumping of waste is just not acceptable, and Council can and will utilise a range of tools to catch and prosecute offenders.

“Council has a full-time Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer, cameras and access to vehicle registration data to ensure offenders are held accountable.

“Under the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011, illegal dumping infringements ranging from $2470 to $11,610 per incident can, and will be issued.

“As a Council, we are committed to working with the community and will continue to look at the illegal dumping hot spots,” Cr Cook said.

The damage caused to the community and environment by illegal dumping is immense and is an issue Council is committed to tackling, Cr Cook said.

“Let’s make the Lockyer Valley a litter free zone and take a stand against illegal dumping.

“It really is a team effort and together, we can make a difference.

“While we have an agricultural focus, the Lockyer Valley is home to a growing residential population and a wide variety of flora and fauna and it’s vital we keep the region clean, but we need the help of the community to do so.

“The war on waste is one we are committed to winning and we also thank the majority of residents who dispose of waste responsibly and legally,” Cr Cook said.

Members of the public are urged to report instances of illegal dumping directly to Council on 1300 005 872 or by visiting Council’s online portal at www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-council/contact-us.