Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the funding would help provide “certainty” in the region. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council
The Burdekin’s battle against illegal dumpers has received a $270,000 boost, helping the region double down on enforcement and prevention efforts while saving ratepayers “thousands of dollars” in clean-up costs.
The funding boost, secured through the Queensland Government's Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program, will support Burdekin Shire Council initiatives aimed at reducing illegal dumping, including support for its dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the funding would help provide “certainty” in the region.
“This three-year funding commitment will support the continuation of Council's dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer role, ensuring Council can maintain a strong focus on investigating offences, educating the community and responding quickly to reports of illegal dumping," Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Illegal dumping is not only unsightly, it can damage our natural environment, create public health risks and result in significant clean-up costs for Council and the community.
Council has previously identified illegal dumping hotspots across the Burdekin, including the river, bushland, roadsides and footpaths.
In 2025, it said several offenders had been fined more than $2,500 each, with Council estimating illegal dumping costs local businesses and residents thousands of dollars in clean-up and waste management each year.
“Every illegally dumped trailer load, mattress, appliance or pile of green waste costs the community. These clean-up costs are ultimately borne by ratepayers and divert resources away from other important services,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said empowering Burdekin Shire Council to take proactive action on illegal dumping was a crucial step towards providing cleaner community spaces that everyone can enjoy.
“The new Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer will have the tools at their hands to properly investigate incidents and hold those offenders to account,” Mr Last said.
“It’s no secret the Burdekin is renowned for the lifestyle it provides especially when it comes to our beaches, creeks and river systems. By doing our part to mitigate illegal dumping we ensure our favourite spots to get outdoors with our family remain pristine for generations to come.”
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