Bundaberg Regional Council is urging residents to properly dispose of hazardous materials – especially batteries – following a second garbage truck fire in just one month.
The latest incident occurred at 7 am on Wednesday in Buxton when a Council waste truck driver noticed flames coming from the rear of the vehicle.
Emergency services were immediately called and the driver was directed to the foreshore where the load was safely dumped.
Fire crews attended the scene but the truck sustained significant damage.
Initial investigations suggest the fire may again have been caused by batteries improperly placed in a kerbside bin, a growing concern for Council.
Waste and Recycling portfolio spokesperson Cr Jason Bartels said this was not an isolated event.
“This is the second truck fire in a month, with a similar incident recently occurring in Bargara,” he said.
“On average, we’re seeing more than 30 fires a year in Council trucks or waste facilities, all potentially linked to incorrect battery disposal.
“These fires put our staff, emergency responders and the community at serious risk.”
In the most recent incident, investigations uncovered the remaining contents of the garbage truck not only contained electronic waste (batteries), but also a drum of waste motor oil, several full butane gas canisters and other full aerosol cans – some of which exploded during disposal.
“This is a timely reminder that, in addition to batteries, items like gas canisters, used motor oil and full aerosol cans are extremely dangerous for our garbage truck drivers,” Cr Bartels said.
Council is reminding residents of the correct way to dispose of these items:
Battery disposal tips
• Tape battery terminals or place used batteries in a clear plastic bag.
• Drop them off at designated battery recycling points—never in kerbside bins.
• Use the Recycle Mate app or map to find your nearest disposal location.
• Large batteries (e.g. car or power tool batteries) can be taken to any Council waste facility—just let staff know what you’re dropping off.
Other hazardous waste reminders
• Aerosol cans must be completely emptied before recycling.
• Domestic motor oil, gas bottles and electronic waste can be safely and freely disposed of at a Council waste facility.
“Correct disposal of batteries and hazardous waste is a simple step that can prevent dangerous fires and protect our community,” Cr Bartels said.
For more information on safe disposal practices, visit bundaberg.qld.gov.au or download the Recycle Mate app.
