Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents and businesses that only human waste and toilet paper should be disposed of through the sewer system following a recent increase in wipes causing blockages within the sewer network and operational issues at Council's Sewerage Treatment Plant.
While some products are marketed as "flushable", many wipes do not break down in the sewer system in the same way as toilet paper.
As a result, they can accumulate within pipes, pumps and treatment equipment, leading to blockages and damage.
These blockages can result in:
- Increased maintenance and repair costs
- Damage to critical infrastructure
- Sewer overflows
- Disruptions to wastewater treatment operations
Council is asking all residents and businesses to dispose of wipes in the rubbish bin, including:
- Baby wipes
- Cleaning wipes
- Disinfectant wipes
- Make-up wipes
- Personal hygiene wipes
By placing wipes in the bin rather than the toilet, the community can help protect essential wastewater infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs and support the reliable operation of the sewer network.
Council thanks residents and businesses for their cooperation and ongoing support in helping maintain a safe, efficient and reliable sewerage system for the Hinchinbrook community.
For more information email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.
Mary-Anne Uren
Chief Executive Officer
Public Notice - Help protect our sewer network - 28 July 2026