Town sites closed for testing after kids find liquid mercury vials at tip

Cunnamulla, a town in southwest Queensland, is undergoing extensive testing and cleanup after children discovered vials of liquid mercury at the local tip and brought them to school. The incident has led to the closure of Cunnamulla State School, a BP service station, the hospital waiting room, several private residences, a council depot, and the refuge tip.

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Liquid mercury has a tendency to penetrate porous surfaces like clothing, furniture upholstery and can't be seen but continues to give off vapour which, if inhaled, can cause mercury poisoning. That's our main concern.

Scientific officers are on-site to assess the contamination and determine the necessary remediation work. The Queensland Fire Department was alerted on Monday afternoon, with specialist equipment arriving Tuesday. Charleville Command area commander Caine Warburton expressed concern about the chemical's tendency to penetrate porous surfaces and release invisible, harmful vapors.

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Thinking they'd do show and tell with the mercury, I think.

Authorities are unable to confirm the exact number of people exposed, but multiple individuals, including children, have sought medical checks. Paroo Shire Council Mayor Suzette Beresford suggested the mercury might be illegally dumped medical waste, a matter potentially for Queensland Police to investigate. Residents who suspect contact with the mercury are advised to double-bag contaminated clothing and footwear and leave them outside their homes pending further disposal instructions.

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We're thinking it must be an illegal dumping of medical waste … that's probably something the Queensland Police will look into afterwards.