SMOKE testing will be conducted in Hervey Bay, Maryborough and Burrum Heads in early 2024 to help identify the sources of stormwater and groundwater leaking into the sewerage network.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor David Lee said Council regularly conducted inspection programs to identify and fix problems impacting the sewerage network.

“Leaks can allow groundwater to enter the sewerage system while illegal pipe connections can channel stormwater from roofs into the sewerage system,” he said.

“During storms, the amount of sewage heading to the treatment plant can be more than five times normal dry weather flows.

“That extra water has to be treated and that costs ratepayers money. It can cause the treatment plants to overload and have a negative impact on the environment.”

Cr Lee said a non-toxic, non-staining, odourless coloured smoke would be injected into the sewers as part of the inspection program.

“As the smoke escapes from cracks in pipes or incorrectly installed stormwater drains, we can see faults that need fixing,” he said.

“Smoke may emerge from yards, roof gutters, pipes or street drains. It is also possible that smoke may appear inside a house if the drainage traps are dry.

“The smoke is not flammable and will not cause any harm to people, pets or plants.”

Cr Lee said that discovering properties with illegal connections would not necessarily mean fines would be issued.

“Our experience is that once made aware of issues, most property owners comply with the request to rectify problems,” he said.

Residents will be notified by mail of the timing of inspections in their area.

The inspection program will start in February 2024 and is due to be completed by April 2024.