Piles of waste rubbish have been reported in river beds, streets and surrounding properties, with locals taking to social media and council to report their disgust and frustration on the issue.

Mount Isa City Council confirmed they are committed to tacking illegal dumping of rubbish but need the community’s assistance.

“It is a problem council takes very seriously and anyone witnessing illegal dumping (as it is happening) should contact police in the first instance,” Mayor Joyce McCulloch said.

“If you find rubbish illegally dumped outside the city’s refuse facilities, an online reporting form is available on the council’s website.

“Council urges residents to dispose of their rubbish and unwanted goods correctly and report incidents of dumping.”

Local Kerry Brisbane reported illegal waste dumped down the Leichhardt River and unleashed her frustration on the Mount Isa Vent Page.

“To all the people who are illegally dumping rubbish in the Leichhardt River bed I will no longer turn a blind eye. As of today I am taking number plates, collecting evidence such as names on envelopes and handing it over to the council,” she said.

“As if the household rubbish and garden waste were not enough the pig remains in the plastic bag today took the cake. Seriously do you grubs not stop and think where this garbage will end up when the river runs or do you just not care.”

Cr McCulloch said heavy penalties applied for people caught disposing of rubbish unlawfully.

“Individuals dumping rubbish can be fined up to $2438, and up to $9142 for commercial business, with cases of aggravated littering dealt with in the Magistrates Court,” she said.

“Every household is entitled to six free visits to the refuse facility per year. Even if you have used up your free visits, our tip fees are among the lowest in the state so there’s really no excuse for illegal dumping.”

To take a single car or trailer load of rubbish to the tip, it costs five dollars and to dispose of a small animal (cat or dog) there is no charge.

“Cleaning up illegal waste costs ratepayers thousands of dollars each year,” Cr McCulloch said.

“Most people are doing the right thing using the council refuse facility, private waste disposal services and donating reusable goods to charity.

“To them we say well done and thank you. For the irresponsible few, we urge them to think about their actions and consider the consequences.”  

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