Locals Want Immediate Action Over ‘Unauthorised Fill’ In Yeronga

Residents living near Yeronga Commercial Park are calling on authorities to remove an unauthorised fill at the rear of the property, which allegedly makes flash floods worse as it prevents floodwaters from getting away quickly.

Read: Netflix to Film ‘Boy Swallows Universe’ in Boggo Road Gaol, Other Brisbane Landmarks

Locals have been complaining about it even before the floods in 2011, and even sought the help of a hydrologist who warned the earthworks significantly increased the flood risk to adjacent homes, but those who were responsible have never been charged.

The subject site is at 133 Hyde Road, Yeronga, which was owned by Moxon Timbers until 2014.  

Council records indicate that the former owner of the said property told a Council officer that filling the creek would help ‘improve drainage.’

Around 20 years later, residents have been suffering its aftermath and the problem only became worse after the 2022 flood. 

One of the potential actions of the residents is a class action against both Council and the property owner, for compensation should flooding occur and damage affected properties. Compensation can include increased insurance premiums that may result in the increased risk of flooding.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey wrote a letter to Council, asking Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner for an immediate investigation on the matter.

Mr Bailey wanted to know how development has been allowed to occur in the past, to identify any ongoing flood impacts it is causing for local residents.

The Transport Minister also wanted to proceed with investigations to see what rectification measures can be identified to retain the natural drainage flow capacities.

In response to the issue, a Council spokesperson said they have no current plans to undertake any creek or drainage modifications on council land in this area and any changes on private land would be a matter between individual landowners.

Still, BCC’s compliance team has initiated action regarding the alleged illegal use of the property, with reports that it’s also being used for sport and recreation other than the storage of timber.