JJ Richards rubbish truck forced to dump load in Andergrove street

A garbage truck was forced to dump its load onto a suburban street during a rubbish run after a fire sparked within the waste, prompting calls for people to pay attention to what they are putting in the trash

A JJ Richards garbage truck was forced to dump its load on an Andergrove St after a fire began in the rubbish. Picture: Supplied

A garbage truck was forced to dump its load onto a suburban street during a rubbish run after a fire sparked within the waste inside the vehicle.

Andergrove residents were confronted with garbage spread across roadway just after 9.30am July 27 while JJ Richards, contracted by Mackay Regional Council, was servicing bins in Jasmine Court.

But the fast acting driver noticed smoke and some flames within the waste mid-collection and, in accordance with procedures, dumped the waste on the road and called authorities.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are continuing.

Efforts are now focused on cleaning up the street for residents affected.

Mackay Regional Council engineering and commercial infrastructure director Jason Devitt said the fires were reckless and a danger to waste truck drivers.

A JJ Richards garbage truck was forced to dump its load on an Andergrove St after a fire began in the rubbish. Picture: Supplied

“These fires are occurring too often. The correct disposal of hazardous waste is common sense,” Mr Devitt said.

“Items, including batteries of all kinds, chemicals, oils, combustibles, paint, asbestos and tyres, do not belong in your general waste or recycling bins.”

Mr Devitt said these items “must be taken to one of our waste transfer stations or a certified collection point”.

“Safety is always paramount and thankfully, in this instance, the driver was able to quickly unload the hopper onto the road, which ensured the fire did not further ignite.

“Even more thankfully, he was not injured during the incident.”

Originally published as JJ Richards rubbish truck forced to dump load in Andergrove street