As staged clean-up works continue in more than 500 storm-impacted streets, Council’s focus is firmly on the safe and responsible removal of fallen green waste.

Residents and private contractors are being asked to support the community’s recovery by ensuring their own clean-up efforts – including the mulching of green debris – does not further impact local amenity, or pose new biosecurity risks.

Mulch piles left in one location for longer than 24 hours are considered fire ant hazards under the Queensland Government’s Biosecurity Regulation 2015.

Council is responsible for the safe removal, and treatment, of mulch illegally dumped on public land, to prevent the potential spread of fire ants.

Individuals, and Council, can be prosecuted for not complying with legislative conditions as part of the Queensland Government’s Fire Ant Eradication Program.

Green and hard waste disposal remains free for storm-impacted residents at Council’s five waste and recycling facilities.

Residents who cannot attend a waste facility should continue to stack un-mulched green waste neatly on the kerb. Waste mulched on private property can be stored and used on that property without risk.

Mayor Darren Power said despite the size of the task, a common-sense approach to storm clean-up now would help ensure the ongoing safety, and liveability of local streets.

“Weeks into this enormous clean-up job, Council shares the community’s fatigue and frustration at the size of the job still before us,” Cr Power said.

“Unstable weather conditions and sodden ground are also continuing to hamper clean-up efforts, as the safety of residents and staff remains our top priority.

“But we know there is no room for complacency.

“We need everyone’s support to see this through, and to safeguard the wellbeing of our community into the future.

“Responsible disposal of storm-related waste will also ensure Council resources do not have to be diverted away from the task at hand.”

Residents should also check their obligations before burning storm-related green waste.

More information is available at Noise pollution