How the Wastewater System Works

Toilet: Only flush pee, poo and paper. Small sanitary items can cause big issues – put ALL sanitary items, tampons, nappies, wipes (even "flushable" ones) dental floss etc. in the bin. Download the toilet poster to learn more.

Laundry tubs and stormwater drains: Don’t pour hazardous waste such as paint, pesticides, solvents and used automobile oil down drains - dispose of by taking to landfill. Wash equipment and vehicles on unsealed ground to prevent polluted wastewater flowing into stormwater drains.

Household drains: Wastewater pipes on private property are property owner’s responsibility. Maintain drains and replace leaky pipes to avoid stormwater seeping into the wastewater network, overloading pipes and causing overflows.

Kitchen sink: Cooking fats and oils can harden and block pipes if rinsed down your sink – allow these to cool and harden, then scrape into the bin. Download the kitchen sink poster to learn more.

Manholes: Contact Council ASAP on 07 348 4199 to report any damage or spillage from a manhole.

Gully trap: Rainwater from roofs, rubbish and yard run-off should NOT be entering your gully trap. Ensure your gully trap is raised to prevent a blockage and overflow entering your home.

Stormwater downpipes: Are the property owner’s responsibility - check your stormwater downpipe connects to the stormwater network, not the wastewater network.

Industrial activities: A stormwater licence is required for all sites that undertake ‘high risk activities’ to prevent contaminated water entering waterways and threatening our freshwater ecosystems.

Tree planting: Tree roots mature and can cause a blockage or breakage to pipes as they grow – plan your planting.