Asbestos roofing material has been found in the Cherbourg Forest Reserve.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking the public’s assistance into its investigation into the alleged illegal dumping of this material.
QPWS rangers have allegedly discovered a number of asbestos corrugated roof panels -commonly called ‘fibro’ or ‘super six’- in the forest, some still have the wooden fascia trim attached.
Some of these wood and roof panels are painted green but most of the material was unpainted.
QPWS believes the illegal dumping occurred sometime in the past six months.
This material was removed by a specialist contractor on Saturday, 18 May.
South Burnett Senior Ranger Mark Casey urges anyone who may have information about the alleged illegal dumping to report this confidentially to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation’s Pollution Hotline on 1300 130 372, or by phoning the local QPWS office on 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
“Dumping rubbish in any national park, state forest, or forest reserve is illegal,” he said.
“In this instance the situation is more critical, as the material dumped contains hazardous asbestos.
“It is also more costly to remove, with asbestos material requiring specialised handling, removal and disposal.
“If anyone recognises the roof panels or knows of people who have recently undertaken renovations or demolitions and that may be able to provide further details, that information would assist us.”
Under the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011 significant penalties can apply for illegal dumping offences, while illegally dumping material in Queensland’s protected areas can attract a fine of up to $3,096 for individuals or $11,610 for corporations.
