The Bulimba Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee (B4C) is concerned regarding a potentially serious environmental incident in Mt Gravatt East. Specifically, B4C is concerned about the potential impacts of a possible breach in a holding pond, of a disused quarry, and any possible damage to the environment of downstream Salvin Creek by these water flows.
Recent community photographs provided to B4C and Brisbane Catchments Network (BCN) appear to show that a holding wall at the quarry may have at least partially collapsed during the recent weather associated with ex-cyclone Alfred. B4C has concerns about any potential negative impacts of this water from the disused quarry’s holding pond.
The collapsed wall has apparently, also spread debris along the creek for approximately 70 metres. The public walkway between Cavendish Road and Pine Mountain Road was blocked and remained partially underwater for an entire week. It could still be unsafe for use. Additionally, the increased water flows seem to have caused substantial tree loss in the area. The area appears highly modified from its prior condition, and a major recovery program may be required.
Following a newspaper report about the potential incident, B4C contacted the Pollution Hotline, which referred the issue to the Council’s Environmental Health Team. In response, a BCC Senior Environmental Health Officer stated:
“The matter is being investigated by our team. Due to privacy requirements, I am unable to disclose the outcome of the investigation.”
We believe that the B4C and the local community have a right to be informed, in a timely manner, about environmental investigations that impact on our catchment. For the past 27 years, we have worked to restore and protect these ecosystems downstream. As a long-term partner B4C expects an adequate level transparency from Council regarding these matters.
This area holds values of high ecological importance and has been maintained by community members through local Bushcare initiatives. Given the observed loss of trees and any other potential damage, we would also like to know, if there will be any form of support for the restoration of the downstream area from either Council or the quarry owners.
A lack of clear and direct communication can undermine public confidence in the handling of this issue. We urge Council to provide a formal update on any investigations and ensure that the community is kept informed of any findings and actions taken
Mik Petter
President
