Pilot project to save our waterways

Steps are being taken in the City of Moreton Bay to minimise environmental harm in waterways from erosion, soil sediment and construction by-products.

Mayor Peter Flannery said a pilot project had stopped the release of sediment into waterways and reduced the threat to wildlife, businesses and lifestyles.

The project comes as up to 50,000 dump trucks of pollutant soil particles are estimated to wash into South-East Queensland waterways each year.

“Fourteen residential development areas were initially assessed through this project, consisting of hundreds of dwellings at various stages of construction,” the mayor said.

“We are continuing to work with contractors to improve erosion and sediment control practices that will reduce the environmental impacts and cost-implications of this building by-product, protecting our waters and all those who use them.

“There is still work to be done however, and with the risk of environmental harm a concern to Council, we are undertaking enforcement action including official warnings and penalties, with the minimum penalty amount being $4312.50.

“Council will keep working with business, industry, and community to improve environmental protections in any way we can.”

Moreton Bay City Council’s Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) program relates to principal contractors, not developers.

A Council spokesperson said there is monitoring by ESC officers and Council has held on-site educational events to industry with Healthy Land and Water.

The residential ESC program aims to raise awareness “through education and engagement to improve voluntary compliance throughout the region and building industry”.

Audits include assessing “stabilised entry/exit rock pads, sediment barriers, downpipes and storage materials”.

“It is anticipated a reduction of 30 per cent in erosion and sediment control complaints will be witnessed by the end of this year,” the spokesperson said.

"Future audits will be ongoing."

Penalty Infringement Notices from Council can go up to $2419.50 for individuals, $4830 for corporations on residential sites of 1000sqm or less and $12,097.50 for corporations on residential sites more than 1000sqm.

Courts can issue much higher penalties. The maximum for wilful breach is $268,564.50, while for not wilful breach the maximum is $96,780.