A Townsville resident has been left dealing with a putrid and dangerous mess after his property was flooded with raw sewage following recent heavy rainfall. Vincent, who lives in the suburb of Vincent, says the incident has created a serious health risk for his family.
A Property Submerged in Sewage
The homeowner, who has chosen to be identified only by his first name, Vincent, described the scene as horrific. "Literally shit everywhere," he stated, recounting how the contaminated water flowed from a manhole and inundated his yard. The event occurred on Wednesday, February 21, after significant rain lashed the region.
Vincent reported that the sewage did not just pool in one area. It spread across his property, seeping into his garden and creating a foul-smelling quagmire. He immediately contacted the Townsville City Council to report the emergency, fearing for the safety of his children and pets.
Council Response and Homeowner's Frustration
According to Vincent, the council's initial response was to send a contractor to pump out the sewage. However, he claims the job was only partially completed, leaving behind contaminated soil and a lingering stench. He is deeply concerned about the potential for disease and the long-term damage to his land.
"They just came and pumped it out and left," Vincent explained. He believes the council is treating the symptom, not the cause, of a recurring problem. His primary demand is for the council to properly remediate the affected soil to eliminate the health hazard, not just remove the visible liquid waste.
A spokesperson for Townsville City Council acknowledged the incident, stating they received the report and dispatched a crew. The council attributed the overflow to the exceptional volume of rainwater that entered the sewerage network, overwhelming the system. They confirmed the area was cleaned and said they are investigating the matter further.
Broader Concerns for Public Health and Infrastructure
This incident raises significant questions about the state of local infrastructure and public health protocols. Flooding of untreated sewage presents serious risks, including exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses. For residents like Vincent, it transforms their home environment into a danger zone.
The event also highlights the challenges aging drainage and sewage systems face during extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent. Vincent's experience serves as a stark warning for other homeowners in low-lying or vulnerable areas of Townsville.
He is now left waiting for a permanent solution from the council, hoping that his family's health and the value of his property are not permanently compromised by the foul inundation.
