QUICK SUMMARY
Boral accepted responsibility for a spill of 10,000 liters of kerosene and bitumen into Smiths Creek, affecting local ecosystems and prompting warnings for boaters. The Department of Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation is leading the investigation, focusing on preventing further spread into the Great Barrier Reef.
Boral has accepted responsibility for a spill involving 10,000 liters of kerosene and bitumen into Smiths Creek, which has raised alarms about environmental damage and prompted warnings for local boaters. The Department of Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation (DETSI) is leading the investigation, with assistance from Maritime Safety Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Authorities have cautioned boaters to stay away from contaminated waters and to clean their vessels before departing Cairns Harbour to prevent further spread. Boral reported that the spill resulted from a failure of a safety valve at its asphalt plant in Cairns. Local community members expressed concerns regarding the environmental impact, especially on fishing and local ecosystems. DETSI noted that Boral self-reported the incident, but possible compliance actions are being evaluated. In a separate incident, a paint shop fire led to diluted contaminants entering Smiths Creek, which is not deemed a significant risk. Authorities continue to assess the extent of the environmental damage and urge vigilance to protect the nearby Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.