Wendy Bourne, State Member for Ipswich West, and residents in Ipswich West, are demanding immediate and decisive action from the State Government following the Environmental Enforcement Order issued to Candy Soil in Tivoli by the Department for Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).
Complaints from residents regarding the foul odours coming from the facility have persisted for years, some as far back as 2018, with many describing the smell as “putrid,” “chemical-like,” and “resembling dead animals.”
“This is not a new problem. Residents have been raising the alarm for years, and they are rightly asking, why has it taken so long for this to be taken seriously?” said Wendy Bourne MP.
Residents in the area report being forced to keep their windows shut and stay indoors to avoid the stench, with growing concerns that long-term exposure may be causing health impacts. Earlier this year, Ms Bourne called on the Government to include Tivoli in the public health inquiry investigating major odour issues at other locations in Ipswich.
“People shouldn’t have to live like this. The health and wellbeing of residents must come before the profits of industry,” Ms Bourne added. “If a business is slapped with an Environmental Enforcement Order, it should not be business as usual. They should not be accepting more odorous waste until independent experts assess their systems and all changes are implemented.”
There are increasing concerns that some companies may view fines as a cheaper alternative to properly addressing the root causes of pollution, allowing harmful practices to continue unchecked.
“That is why, I have written to the Minister suggesting it’s time to get tough. These industries are operating near homes and families. We need stronger penalties, tougher enforcement, and a government that stands with its people,” said Ms Bourne.
“Community members have made it clear they are prepared to protest if necessary and I am more than happy to stand with them.”
“This is about sending a clear message to all industries: environmental compliance is not optional. The community has had enough and the time to act is now.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
ipswich.west@parliament.qld.gov.au
