Smoke tests to help fix sewer issues

Fraser Coast Regional Council will conduct smoke tests in Hervey Bay and Maryborough early next year to find and fix issues in the sewerage system.

The tests, scheduled from March to May 2025, will help identify leaks and illegal pipe connections that allow stormwater and groundwater to flow into the sewer network.

Council Water and Waste spokesperson Zane O’Keefe said the testing areas were chosen based on comparing wet weather flow data to normal dry weather flows at pump stations.

“Stormwater entering the sewer system increases the amount of wastewater that needs treatment,” he said.

“During heavy rain, the amount of sewage flowing to treatment plants can be more than five times the normal levels. This extra water is costly to treat, can overload the system and may harm the environment.”

The smoke tests involve pumping safe, non-toxic, odourless coloured smoke into the sewer pipes to check for problems.

“The smoke will escape through cracks in pipes or illegal stormwater drains, showing us where repairs are needed,” Cr O’Keefe said.

“People might see smoke coming from roof gutters, yards, pipes or street drains. It’s also possible for smoke to appear inside homes if drainage traps are dry. However, the smoke is completely harmless to people, pets and plants.”

Cr O’Keefe said Council’s approach is to work with property owners to address any issues.

“Finding an illegal connection doesn’t automatically mean fines. In most cases, owners are happy to fix problems once they know about them,” he said.

Residents will receive advance notice by mail when the testing will happen in their area.