Raw, untreated sewage has been discharged into the Brisbane River at Morningside, contaminating flood waters in the area, as part of a temporary relief overflow structure in the area. Urban Utilities is also undertaking critical pipe replacements on a 70-year-old, 600-metre underground siphon connecting Bulimba to Hamilton.
Major Wastewater Pipe Repairs Lead to Emergency Overflow
Urban Utilities has confirmed that untreated sewage has been discharged into the Brisbane River at Morningside. This is due to ongoing work on the ageing Bulimba-Hamilton Siphon. The siphon is a 600-metre underground wastewater tunnel connecting Bulimba to Hamilton. It has transported sewage for nearly 70 years and is currently undergoing critical pipe replacements.=
With one of the two pipes offline for maintenance, excess wastewater from recent heavy rainfall has been managed through an emergency relief point. As a result, residents have been advised to avoid contact with floodwaters, particularly near Vic Lucas Park at Bulimba and Colmslie Beach Reserve at Murarrie.
Public Health Concerns as Residents Ignore Warnings
Despite public health warnings, some residents have been spotted swimming and fishing in contaminated floodwaters. Social media users expressed alarm, with one person noting sewage and toilet paper debris in local parks.
Urban Utilities has reassured residents that Brisbane’s drinking water remains safe and continues to meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. However, authorities have advised people to boil or filter their drinking water as a precaution.
Flooding and Power Outages Continue Across Brisbane
The crisis in Morningside is part of a larger emergency unfolding across South East Queensland. Heavy rainfall from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has caused severe flooding, with multiple creeks overflowing and major roads inundated.
Energex crews have restored power to 31,000 homes, but more than 211,000 properties remain without electricity. Emergency teams are working in hazardous conditions, with helicopters on standby to assess damage once the weather improves.
Next Steps and Long-Term Implications
As floodwaters begin to recede, authorities will assess the full extent of the damage, particularly the health risks posed by contaminated water. Urban Utilities will continue repairs on the Bulimba-Hamilton Siphon, with efforts underway to complete the project as soon as possible.
Brisbane residents are urged to stay updated on the latest developments, report any sewage overflows, and follow health guidelines when cleaning up flood-affected properties.
Latest Updates on Brisbane Services & Recovery Efforts
Brisbane Council Service Updates Following Cyclone Alfred (Updated: 10 March 2025, 11:20 a.m.)
BCC has announced several service closures and changes due to ongoing flood recovery efforts:
- Closures Until Further Notice:
- City Hall, community halls, libraries, pools,
- Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
- North & South Regional Business Centres, Carindale, Indooroopilly, Brisbane Square Customer Service Centres
- Golf courses, off-street parking (King George Square & Wickham Terrace)
- Mountain bike tracks (Gap Creek & Mt Coot-tha Reserve)
- Council-run playground water play areas
- CityCat, KittyCat
- Most bus services
- Story Bridge footpaths
- Open Facilities & Services:
- Chandler and Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centres (offering free green waste drop-off)
Sandbag stations
- All sandbag stations have closed.
Transport Disruptions & Road Closures
- Ferry services are suspended and unable to operate due to debris found in the water.
- Bus and train services are operating on limited schedules.
- Roma Street Station remains closed due to flooding.
- Personalised Public Transport services and Council Cabs are still suspended.
For public transport updates, visit TransLink or contact 13 12 30.
Waste Collection & Bin Repairs
- Regular collection of general waste, recycling, and waste bins (green) has resumed.
- Bin repair and maintenance services are still suspended until further notice.
For more information, visit BCC website or contact 07 3403 8888.
Evacuation Centres Remain Open for Flood-Affected Residents
Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions as flooding conditions persist. Those needing emergency shelter can still access the following evacuation centres:
- Sleeman Sports Complex (Chandler Arena) at 757 Tilley Road, Chandler
- Kedron Wavell Services Club at 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside
- Riverlife Community Centre (Community-Led Evacuation Hub) at 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks
Residents are urged to leave early, avoid driving through floodwaters, and prepare emergency kits with essential items.
For road conditions, visit QLD Traffic. Residents can also contact 13 19 40.
Published 10-Mar-2025
