The recovered tyres whose presence delayed controlled burns. Photo: Qld Environment Department.
Queensland authorities are looking for the owner of 200 illegally dumped truck tyres discovered in the Isla Gorge National Park, which delayed a control burn program.
During a bushfire in October 2024, the tyres were discovered in a deep ravine adjacent to the Leichhardt Highway.
The park is located 340km west of Bundaberg and 230km southwest of Rockhampton (see Google Map below).
Qld rangers and Banana Shire Council officers are looking to identify the culprit.
Senior Ranger Chris White says the tyres pose a significant fire risk and have polluted a highly sensitive environment.
“This shocking example of illegal dumping delayed our planned burn program. We are doing everything we can to remediate the site and find the person or business responsible,” White says.
“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.”
According to White, the remote location and size of the tyres meant rangers couldn’t remove them with conventional methods.
“The complex clean-up operation involves a specialist contractor with a 130-tonne crane to remove and recycle the tyres,” he says.
“Visitors to our national parks don’t want to see illegally dumped waste; 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.”
Council Mayor Nev Ferrier says the dumping is unacceptable and shows no respect for the 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,” he says.
“The Isla Gorge is one of the most beautiful parts of our region; to see it treated like this is heartbreaking.
“I urge anyone who knows anything about this to do the right thing and come forward.”
Everyone can play their part by reporting littering and illegal dumping via the Litter and Illegal Dumping Online Reporting System.
They can also report littering and illegal dumping to their local council.
