A section of the BMI Group-owned Mt Gravatt quarry suffered significant erosion following heavy rainfall from Cyclone Alfred, leading to concerns over potential environmental impacts. The company denies any contamination occurred, asserting that all water released from the site met safety standards.
Background and Context
The Mt Gravatt quarry, operated by BMI Group since 2013, has been the subject of environmental scrutiny in the past. Previously used for hard rock extraction by Boral from 1964 to 1991, the site has undergone remediation efforts over the years.
In 2020, BMI Group had to address concerns regarding toxic water accumulation within the quarry. The company implemented water treatment measures, constructed a discharge structure into Salvin Creek, and introduced ongoing environmental monitoring to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Erosion Incident Following Cyclone Alfred
Cyclone Alfred brought over 400mm of rain to the Mt Gravatt area, overwhelming the quarry’s stormwater containment pond. The excessive water flow eroded part of the quarry wall, resulting in tree falls and sediment displacement.
BMI Group confirmed that while erosion had occurred, the quarry wall itself had not collapsed. Pine Mountain Road near Whites Hill Nature Reserve—a known koala habitat—was temporarily closed due to the debris.
A footpath along the nearby creek was also shut, restricting pedestrian access between Cavendish Road and Tristania Way.
BMI Group’s Response
BMI Group CEO David Evans stated that the stormwater pond’s water is routinely tested and was within safe release limits at the time of the incident. The company rejected claims circulating on social media that contamination had occurred.
BMI Group notified BCC immediately and is working with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation to manage clean-up efforts, including sediment removal and stormwater containment pond wall repairs.
Community Concerns and Reactions
Residents in the area have expressed concerns about the long-term environmental impact of the incident, particularly on the local ecosystem. Some have questioned whether BMI Group had sufficient safeguards in place to prevent such an event.
Social media discussions have highlighted ongoing worries about potential contamination. In contrast, others have defended the company’s environmental management record, noting that BMI Group has maintained mandated site monitoring since 2020.
One community member raised concerns about water quality and potential contamination risks, while others questioned how the quarry wall failure could have occurred despite past mitigation efforts.
Next Steps
BMI Group has stated that site remediation efforts will begin once conditions allow for safe access. The company has committed to working with local authorities to address any potential environmental concerns resulting from the erosion.
BCC has been informed, though no public advisories have been issued to the community regarding the incident’s potential impact.
Published 14-Mar-2025