The illegal dumping of up to 200 truck tyres in the Isla Gorge National Park has prompted disgust and sparked a joint investigation to find the person or business responsible.
During a bushfire in October 2024, the tyres were discovered in a deep ravine adjacent to the Leichhardt Highway, approximately 340km west of Bundaberg and 230km southwest of Rockhampton.
Rangers from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation and Banana Shire Council compliance officers have since launched an investigation.
Senior Ranger Chris said the tyres posed a significant fire risk and had polluted a highly sensitive environment.
“This shocking example of illegal dumping has delayed our planned burn program, and we are doing everything we can to remediate the site and find the person or business responsible,” Ranger Chris said.
“We believe someone in the region knows who is responsible for dumping the tyres, and we are asking anyone with information to call us on 1300 130 372 or call the Banana Shire Council on (07) 4992 9500.
“Due to the remote location and the size of the tyres, rangers from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service were unable to remove them using conventional methods.”
The complex clean-up operation involves a specialist contractor with a 130-tonne crane to remove and recycle the tyres.
“Visitors to our national parks don’t want to see illegally dumped waste, and that’s why we take a zero-tolerance approach to offenders.”
“People involved in illegally dumping waste can receive hefty fines, and they can be ordered to clean up the mess.”
Banana Shire Council Mayor, Nev Ferrier said the dumping was unacceptable and showed no respect for the region’s natural environment.
“It’s just disgraceful, whoever did this clearly has no regard for the land, our national parks, or the people who care for them,” Mayor Ferrier said.
“The Isla Gorge is one of the most beautiful parts of our region, and to see it treated like this is heartbreaking.
“I urge anyone who knows anything about this to do the right thing and come forward.”
See it, Report it, Stop it — Everyone can play their part by reporting littering and illegal dumping via the Litter and Illegal Dumping Online Reporting System. People can also report littering and illegal dumping to their local council.
