Emergency clean-up ordered at Queensland waste business

Emergency stabilization works are underway at a waste business in Biloela, Queensland, after years of ignored clean-up orders and escalating community complaints prompted government intervention. The Department of Environment issued an Environmental Enforcement Order in April, demanding the removal of hazardous materials from the site operated by Essential Spill.

The department has been issuing notices and fines to Essential Spill since 2022, but these were reportedly ignored. The business ceased trading in 2024 and entered liquidation in 2025. Complaints from Banana Shire Council and a member of the public highlighted contaminants leaking from the site, including discolored oily water flowing onto adjacent properties and roads after rain.

An inspection in March revealed numerous issues, including open waste-oil drums, uncovered materials exposed to weather, and oil pooling on the premises and neighboring areas. Samples confirmed the presence of hazardous wastes such as acids, pesticides, solvents, and mercury. The site's drains lead to Callide Creek, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef Catchment Area, raising concerns about potential impacts on water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

Given the lack of response from the business owner, the department undertook emergency measures, including installing pump infrastructure and sandbagging the boundary. A cost-recovery notice for these works was issued last week. Failure to comply with environmental protection laws can result in significant penalties, with material environmental harm carrying a maximum penalty of over $112,000.