Following concerns raised by residents, the community was informed of an incident during maintenance works on Dulong School Road (14th June ’23), where a substance runoff into Dulong Creek which feeds the Maroochy River, occurred, prompting an apology from the council. Despite implementing control measures, a portion of an environmentally friendly erosion control product, GRT Enviro Binder, entered the creek.
The council’s Environmental and Rapid Response teams promptly responded, applying containment measures, and removing excess product. Daily site visits and water sampling have been conducted, showing improvements in water quality. Ongoing ecological assessments will continue, with property owners’ assistance, while the council collaborates with the Department of Environment and Science to provide regular updates to the community.
What is DRT Enviro Binder?
GRT Enviro Binder is a polymer that prevents erosion. When applied, the binder penetrates and binds with the soil, creating a complex interconnected structure with loose granular surface particles and prevents erosion. GRT Enviro Binder is non-toxic and can be safely applied in environmentally sensitive areas.
Pumping at Dulong Quarry
Following the accidental run off into the Dulong Creek on the 14th June, just two weeks later, the Sunshine Coast Regional Council recommenced discharging water from Dulong quarry into the Dulong creek which feeds the South Maroochy River, resulting in further high visual turbidity.
Concerns have been raised by nearby residents with both the Council and the Queensland Department of Environment and Science about the potential pollution and effects on the aquatic flora and fauna before the impacts of the accidental water contamination in the same waterway have fully cleared.
The Environmental Authority overseen by the Qld Dept of Environment and Science dictates water turbidity and pH must be tested daily during a discharge.
A written reply from SCC dated 30 June only stated concerns should be directed to the Department of Environment and Science. A written reply from DES dated 4 July stated the current water release from Dulong quarry is compliant with the Environmental Authority.
Water Turbidity
Water turbidity is an important factor when reviewing contamination because turbidity indicates the presence of contaminants in water, such as suspended sediments, pathogens, bacteria, and other harmful contaminants. It has an impact on water quality because turbidity is caused by particles suspended or dissolved in water, which scatter light and make the water appear cloudy or murky. This reduction in light availability can negatively impact photosynthesis, which is essential for aquatic plants and algae to produce oxygen and support the aquatic food chain. High turbidity can interfere with the feeding behaviour of aquatic organisms. Fish and other predators rely on visual cues to locate and capture their prey. When turbidity reduces visibility, it becomes more challenging for predators to find their prey, potentially leading to reduced feeding success.
The Queensland Environmental Authority overseen by the Qld Dept of Environment and Science dictates water turbidity and pH must be tested daily during a discharge.