DES issues $14K fine for odour offence, Narangba

Issued: 12 Dec 2022

The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has issued a company with a $14,000 fine for causing a noxious and offensive odour on Brisbane’s northside, resulting in the company taking quick action to reduce the potential for further issues.

Between 14 November and 15 November 2022, DES received a number of reports from the community concerning an obnoxious odour in the Narangba area.

In response, DES compliance officers carried out an extensive investigation including out-of-hours odour monitoring during evenings, early mornings and weekends, multiple inspections of potential sources and air quality sampling.

DES identified one source of odour from a site within the Narangba Industrial Estate.

On 23 November 2022, DES issued the company with a $14,375 Penalty Infringement Notice.

The company is now taking steps to prevent further odour issues including installing new equipment, reducing their hours of operation and focussing on the quality and composition of feedstock materials used to manufacture its products.

The success of these actions is being evaluated and additional measures will be explored as required.

DES will continue to engage with the company, conduct site visits and odour monitoring including out-of-hours monitoring.

Due to the nature of the operations carried out at the Narangba Industrial Estate, DES is continuing to investigate any other potential sources of offensive odours that could impact the area.

If anyone in the area continues to experience offensive odours, they are urged to contact the department by calling the Pollution Hotline on 1300 130 372 during business hours or emailing PollutionHotline@des.qld.gov.au.