Media Release - Think Before You Flush
Published on 01 July 2025
The Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council is urging all residents and visitors to help protect the island’s environment and essential infrastructure by only flushing the 3Ps: Pee, Poo, and (Toilet) Paper.
Recent blockages and damage to the island’s sewerage system have been caused by non-flushable items being flushed down toilets — including baby wipes, nappies, cotton buds, sanitary products, and even clothing. These materials do not break down like toilet paper and can cause major problems in our pipes and pumps.
Mayor Alf Lacey said that these avoidable blockages not only disrupt household plumbing but also place unnecessary pressure on council resources and the environment.
“What gets flushed ends up in our sewer system, and when things like wipes and rubbish get in there, they block the pipes and pumps. That can lead to overflows, backups in people’s homes, and damage to our environment. It’s everyone’s job to do the right thing,” the Mayor said.
Flushing the wrong things doesn’t just cause inconvenience — it can result in expensive repairs, health risks, and pollution of local lands and waterways.
Items NOT to flush:
- Baby wipes and “flushable” wipes (they don’t break down)
- Sanitary items (pads and tampons)
- Nappies
- Cotton buds and dental floss
- Cigarette butts
- Rags, towels, or clothing
- Food scraps and cooking grease
Palm Island Shire Council is reminding the community that the toilet is not a rubbish bin. All household rubbish should go in the bin, and only the 3Ps should ever go down the toilet.
“Every small action helps keep our island clean and our infrastructure working. Together, we can protect Palm for future generations,” Mayor Lacey said.
The Council thanks the community for its continued support in caring for Country, protecting the environment, and ensuring our essential services work properly.
For more information, contact the Council on (07) 4770 1177 or visit our website at www.palmcouncil.qld.gov.au.
ENDS