Non-toilet paper products blocking region’s sewer network

In the middle of toilet paper shortages, Gladstone Regional Council is urging residents to flush only toilet paper down the region’s toilets.

Gladstone Regional Council CEO, Leisa Dowling, said people were using alternative products that
were starting to block the sewer network.
“Flushable wipes and other products will flush down the toilet but may have unwanted
consequences for both private and Council sewage infrastructure,” Ms Dowling said.
“This could range from your pipes at home backing up to severe blockages of local sewer mains,
pump stations and treatment plants.”
Sewer network blockages can create large overflows which put Council staff and the public at increased risk of infection.

In response to COVID-19, Council is focussed on ensuring essential services continue to be delivered to the region.

“If you need to use an alternative to toilet paper where it is not available, please ensure you put it in a bin,” Ms Dowling added.

“This includes where the products say ‘flushable’, as they don’t break down like toilet paper does.”

Blockages not only damage infrastructure and contribute to environmental harm, but also mean Council crews may need to be diverted from other critical activities.

If you have a sewage blockage at your property, please contact a local licenced plumber.

If you see a leak from Council infrastructure, please contact Council on 4970 0700.

Don’t flush these products and please dispose of in a suitable bin: