5 June 2026
Keeping the Southern Downs litter-free is a shared responsibility, and Southern Downs Regional Council’s waste education warrior, Sort It Sally, is urging residents to do the right thing after a marked increase in infringement notices from illegal dumping at unsupervised bin compounds across the region.
Sort It Sally said unsupervised bin compounds are a shared community asset and are intended for household waste and mixed recycling only — not as dumping grounds for unwanted household or commercial items.
As part of Council’s See it. Stop it. Report it. initiative, unsupervised bin compounds are monitored using surveillance cameras to gather evidence of unauthorised disposal. The increased monitoring follows a continuation in the misuse of these facilities.
Sort It Sally said Council continues to see bulky and prohibited items dumped at bin compounds, including furniture, mattresses, commercial waste and scrap metal.
“These bin compounds are not a free for all, and dumped items don’t magically disappear,” Sort It Sally said.
“When the wrong items are dumped, it’s messy, unfair and costly for the entire community. Ratepayer dollars are then spent cleaning up avoidable mess instead of delivering important services and facilities.”
Council reminds residents that failing to follow directions on site signage, or disposing of unauthorised items, is an offence under the Environmental Protection Regulation 2019. Offenders may be issued with a warning and/or a Penalty Infringement Notice.
Unsupervised bin compounds are required to always remain locked and are clearly signed with information outlining acceptable and unacceptable waste types. Council urges residents to read signage carefully and use the facilities correctly to ensure they remain available for community use.
“Looking after our region is everyone’s responsibility,” Sort It Sally said.
“If you see someone doing the wrong thing, don’t look the other way — see it, report it, stop it.”
Residents can report illegal dumping anywhere in the Southern Downs Region via the My SDRC app, Council’s website, or by calling Customer Service on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372). Reports should include the location, time and photos where possible to assist Council investigations and any follow up action.
This initiative is proudly supported by funding from the Queensland Government’s Illegal Dumping Partnerships Program, helping Council protect the environment and keep the Southern Downs clean and beautiful for everyone.
Last edited date 05 Jun 2026