17 February 2020
Residents of Banora Point are advised that the sewage-like smell in the area is not sewage but a natural smell occurring as a result of the sudden rise in the groundwater table following the extended dry period.
Council has investigated reports of the smell in low-lying areas of Banora Point and confirmed that it is not sewage.
“The most likely cause is the saturated ground and the ponding of surface water in the low-lying areas,” Senior Program Leader Waterways Tom Alletson said.
“A whole lot of organic material has washed into the canals and surface ponds with the heavy rains. That material is now decomposing and this process removes the oxygen from the water and gives off a very bad odour similar to sewage.
“The hot days over the weekend would have increased the rate of decomposition as well as the smell.”
Council’s environmental health unit has confirmed there is no risk to human health or the environment as a result of this natural phenomena.
It may take some time for the smell to dissipate.
Council can confirm there was an overflow from the holding lagoons at Banora Point Wastewater Treatment Plant into the nearby wetland last week during the heavy rain. This overflow was largely stormwater combined with some wastewater.
The lagoon holdings are now being pumped back through the wastewater treatment plant to be retreated for release again. Residents are reminded not to access the affected wetland area.
Ponding of floodwaters in low-lying areas has also led to a fish kill in Cudgera Creek.