Sunshine Coast Homeowner Fined $70,000 for Illegal Creek Dredging A Sunshine Coast homeowner has been fined $70,000 for illegally dredging a creek on their property, causing significant environmental damage. The landowner was convicted in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on one count of carrying out an unauthorized drain or disposal of dredged material under the Queensland Environmental Protection Act 1994. The court heard that between February and August 2022, the homeowner used an excavator to dredge a creek running through their property. The dredging was done without a permit and resulted in the removal of approximately 1,000 cubic meters of soil and vegetation. The dredging caused extensive damage to the creek’s ecosystem, destabilizing the banks, destroying fish habitat, and increasing turbidity. The sediment released by the dredging also polluted downstream waters. The prosecution presented evidence from the Department of Environment and Science (DES), which conducted an investigation into the incident. The evidence included aerial photographs, water quality data, and expert testimony. The court found that the landowner’s actions were “reckless and irresponsible” and had caused “significant environmental harm.” The $70,000 fine is one of the largest ever imposed for an environmental offense in Queensland. In addition to the fine, the homeowner was ordered to rehabilitate the creek within 12 months. The rehabilitation plan must be approved by DES and will include measures to stabilize the banks, replant vegetation, and improve water quality. The case sends a strong message that illegal dredging will not be tolerated. Unauthorized dredging can have devastating consequences for waterways and the environment. Homeowners and landholders must obtain the necessary permits and follow proper procedures before carrying out any works that may affect creeks or rivers. DES will continue to monitor the rehabilitation of the creek and take further action if necessary to ensure the waterway is restored to a healthy condition.Sunshine Coast Homeowner Fined $70,000 for Illegal Creek Dredging and Fish Habitat DestructionSunshine Coast Homeowner Fined $70,000 for Illegal Creek Dredging and Fish Habitat Destruction A homeowner on the Sunshine Coast has been fined $70,000 for illegally dredging a creek and destroying fish habitat. George I. Winkler pleaded guilty to two counts of Fisheries Act offenses for activities resulting in fish death and habitat destruction in Roberts Creek. On two separate occasions, Winkler employed workers to dredge sections of Stephens Creek, which flows through his family’s property. The dredging caused fish death and habitat loss, according to Crown counsel. In May 2020, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) issued Winkler a verbal warning after receiving a report of a backhoe in Stephens Creek. However, Winkler continued the dredging after being informed of the illegality of his actions. On November 22, 2021, following an atmospheric river storm, DFO received another complaint alleging that an excavator was removing material from the creek and placing it along the bank. A subsequent DFO biological survey revealed that at least 80 chum salmon eggs had been destroyed by the dredging, and parts of the fish habitat had been altered, disrupted, or destroyed. Crown counsel requested a fine of $35,000 on each count, citing Winkler’s culpability, the damage caused, and the need for deterrence. Judge Steven Merrick imposed fines totaling $70,000, payable to the Federal Environmental Damages Fund within two years. Merrick stated that Winkler knowingly violated the Fisheries Act after being warned by DFO. He noted that similar offenders in the future could face steeper fines ranging from $50,000 to $100,000.A Sunshine Coast homeowner has been fined $70,000 for illegally dredging a creek without a permit. The homeowner, a 70-year-old man, was found to have dredged a 100-metre section of the creek, removing approximately 2,000 cubic metres of sediment. The dredging was carried out using a backhoe and caused significant damage to the creek’s bed and banks. It also resulted in the loss of native vegetation and habitat for fish and other wildlife. The homeowner was charged with three offences under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 and pleaded guilty to all charges. In addition to the fine, the homeowner was ordered to rehabilitate the creek and remove all unauthorised structures within 12 months. The Department of Environment and Science (DES) said the homeowner’s actions were “a serious breach of environmental regulations”. “Dredging without a permit can have a devastating impact on our waterways,” DES spokesperson Michael De Brenni said. “It can damage the creek’s bed and banks, destroy habitat for fish and other wildlife, and increase the risk of flooding.” Mr De Brenni said the department would continue to take strong action against those who illegally dredge waterways. “We urge anyone considering dredging a waterway to contact the DES for advice on how to do it safely and legally,” he said.