$30K in fines for green waste fire, Swanbank

Issued: 10 Jan 2024

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) has fined an Ipswich-based waste operator more than $30,000 for stockpiling green waste that led to a fire late last month.

The fire, which originated in an unprocessed green waste stockpile and was contained in liaison with Queensland Fire and Rescue Service on 23 December 2023, generated a significant amount of smoke that impacted nearby suburbs.

DESI compliances officers carried out multiple site inspections and a review of the circumstances leading up to the fire, including reviewing stockpile management and fire risk mitigation procedures.

As a result, the department has fined the operator $15,480 for failing to follow its own protocols and procedures for emergency risk management.

DESI has also fined the operator a further $15,480 for the unlawful release of smoke as a direct result of the fire.

DESI Environmental Services and Regulation Acting Director Simone Ventura thanked the local community for reporting their concerns and said that DESI is also considering what action is necessary to prevent future fires at the site.

“Waste operators have a responsibility to manage the risk of fire and other environmental threatson their sites,” Ms Ventura said.

“The recent fire at this composting site demonstrates how the mismanagement of their activities can impact surrounding communities,” she said.

“We are continuing to work with Queensland Fire and Rescue Service to ensure this operator is taking steps to minimise the risk of fires at this site.

DESI has published guidelines for waste management operators to reduce fire risks at their sites.

Operators are encouraged to become familiar with these guidelines.

The department remains committed to addressing impacts from Swanbank and New Chum industrial areas, and will continue to take compliance and enforcement action where appropriate.