Community & Business
10 October, 2024
Shocking dead livestock find
IMAGES of dead livestock, used syringes, broken glass and rubbish at the Barron River by the John Doyle Bridge recently posted to Facebook have disgusted the community.
The post was from a local man who claimed to have gone down to the river to take his daughter and niece fishing.
Upon arriving, he found “broken glass, rubbish, carcasses and needles”, posing a serious health risk to the young children he had with him and to members of the community who use this area responsibly.
“I feel like it was a goat, but I can’t be certain,” the man said, referring to the dead animal in the river.
“There was one either side of the bridge.”
The post generated numerous comments from the public including “that’s so gross and terrible, whoever is doing this take ya rubbish with you” and “that’s disgusting, poor animal”.
Mareeba Shire Council acknowledged that people used the area but it did not have the resources to maintain it.
However, in this instance, council staff did attend the site but could not locate any needles.
“Council has no tenure or authority over the river itself. While it is trustee for the ‘esplanade’ along the Barron River, this is not a formal public space,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.
“And although we know people use it, the unfortunate reality is that council simply does not have the resources to maintain or clear rubbish in all areas we own across the shire.
“It is really disappointing to see the rubbish that is carelessly tossed into the environment.”
A council spokesperson said if there was a large amount of illegally dumped waste, council would pick it up, however, with a small amount of isolated litter scattered along the riverbank, they did not have the resources to collect it.
“Council needs to prioritise high traffic parks and open spaces and people need to do the right thing and not leave litter behind,” the spokesperson said.
The council urged members of the community to report dangerous hazards in playgrounds or parks on 1300 308 461 for prompt action.
They also strongly encouraged people to report illegal dumping on the same number or to the State Government on 13 74 68 or via their website.
“Everyone needs to take responsibility for their own litter,” Mayor Toppin said.
“If you see someone littering from a vehicle, vessel or trailer you can report these details too.
“It is important to note that nearly 75% of littering reports made to the State Government result in the vehicle owner receiving an infringement.”
