Illegal dumping in Beerburrum state forest

Issued: 11 Mar 2021

Photo of rubbishOpen larger image
Photo of rubbishOpen larger image
Photo of rubbishOpen larger image

The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is asking for public help to identify the person or persons responsible for illegally dumping construction waste in the Beerburrum State Forest.

The construction waste was dumped in the state forest near Donnybrook Road between Friday 26 February and Monday 1 March 2021.

DES officers are hoping a member of the public will recognise the distinctive wall tiles, mostly likely from a bathroom, that were part of the waste.

Other items included wall sheeting, pallets, fencing material and a bathtub.

Since 1 January 2020, DES compliance officers have investigated 32 reports of illegal dumping In the Beerburrum area forests, which includes Bribie Island and Beerwah forests.

In that time, DES compliance officers have issued 22 Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) in response to illegal dumping offences.

The penalties for illegally dumping range from:

  • less than 2500L for an individual is $2,135 (PIN) and maximum penalty of $53,380 (prosecution)
  • less than 2500L for a corporation is $6,672 (PIN) and maximum penalty of $266,900 (prosecution)
  • greater than 2500L for an individual is $2,669 (PIN) and maximum penalty of $133,450 (prosecution)
  • greater than 2500L for a corporation is $10,008 (PIN) and maximum penalty of $667,250 (prosecution).

As the environmental regulator, DES takes compliance issues seriously, and will take strong enforcement action.

Anyone with information should contact illegaldumping@des.qld.gov.au or phone the Litter and Illegal Dumping Compliance team on 3330 5041.