A Townsville family's home has been transformed into a scene of unimaginable horror after a catastrophic failure at a neighbouring crematorium unleashed a torrent of contaminated water, human waste, and liquefied human remains onto their property.
The incident, which occurred at the 'Queensland's Cheapest Cremations' facility in Heatley, has prompted a major multi-agency health and environmental investigation. The breach saw chemical-laden water, used in the cremation process, overflow from the facility's premises and flood into the adjacent residential property.
A Household Living Nightmare
The affected residents, who wish to remain anonymous, described the appalling scene. Their garden was submerged under a foul-smelling, greyish sludge. The contaminated liquid seeped into their garden shed, destroying stored items, and threatened to enter their home, leaving them fearful for their health and safety.
"It's human waste and human remains. It's just not right," one distressed resident stated, highlighting the severe emotional distress caused by the event.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
In response to the crisis, Townsville City Council confirmed officers were dispatched to the site to manage the clean-up and investigate the serious breach. A spokesperson emphasised that the liquid was "process water" from the crematorium's operations, not a spill of chemicals in their raw form.
Despite this distinction, the council acknowledged the gravity of the situation, confirming the spill contained "human effluent and liquefied remains." The business operator has been instructed to undertake a professional biohazard remediation of the entire affected area to mitigate any public health risks.
The Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation is also conducting its own investigation into the matter, assessing potential regulatory breaches.
Community Outrage and Business Reaction
The spill has caused significant outrage within the local community, raising serious questions about the regulation and placement of such facilities near residential areas. Neighbours have expressed anger and concern over the potential long-term health implications and the devaluation of their properties.
The owner of the crematorium attributed the incident to a "perfect storm" of a faulty solenoid valve and significant rainfall. He publicly apologised for the incident and claimed the business is taking full responsibility, cooperating with authorities and organising the extensive clean-up operation.
