Qld toxic waste dump site 'not safe'

Issue 

Qld toxic waste dump site 'not safe'

By Bill Mason

BRISBANE — Two recent scientific reports on Queensland's toxic waste dump at Gurulmundi, 390km west of Brisbane, have questioned its location and impact on underground water systems.

One report, by consultant Dr Brian Senior, describes the site as "an unsuitable environment for the long-term containment of toxic waste."

It says: "It appears likely in the medium to long term that, for the first time, this otherwise pristine and economically viable ground water resource [the Surat Basin] is in danger of widespread man-made pollution."

The availability of an alternative disposal method for toxic waste has also raised the possibility of a legal claim for negligence against the state and local governments responsible.

The Brisbane City Council and the state government's CHEM Unit recently rejected calls for a halt to the dump while and alternative treatment method, called Ecologic, is examined.

The community protest group People Against Toxic Chemical Hazards claims that failure to fully investigate dump alternatives could leave the state government, Brisbane City and Murilla shire councils open to legal action.

Queensland Greens convenor Drew Hutton said the Ecologic process had been known about for more than a year and "it would seem to be a vastly better bet than dumping toxic waste in hole on top of the Artesian Basin."

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.