Yeppoon pollution event - update

Issued: 24 Dec 2019

Test results by the Department of Environment and Science (DES) have revealed no further evidence of contamination in a wetland at Sandy Point Road at Yeppoon.

Samples were taken at three sites in the wetland and showed no hydrocarbon contamination in water and low residual levels of hydrocarbon contaminants in impacted soils.

The test results were reviewed by Queensland Health and their precautionary advice to avoid swimming or taking seafood from the lagoon has been lifted.  DES has removed the pollution hazard signs from the wetland.

The pollution event is considered to be localised and no further water or soil sampling will be conducted. No further remediation of the site or decontamination of the impacted soil is required.

Thanks to information from the public, DES compliance officers have interviewed a number of suspects. As the investigation is ongoing, the department is unable to provide any further information at this time.

During 2019, in the greater Rockhampton area, there has been eight reported incidents of illegal dumping. As the environmental regulator, DES takes compliance matters seriously.

The department encourages anyone with information about illegal dumping or other environmental offences to contact the Pollution Hotline on 1300 130 372.

The department has set clear expectations about acceptable standards of environmental performance, particularly when public safety is concerned.

Where offences are identified, the department will take strong enforcement action.