Published 2 October 2025

In May this year, CleanCo became aware of increased odours in the Swanbank area both through community concerns, and because many of our team also live locally.

While odours around Swanbank are not uncommon, we had never previously detected odour coming from the ash dam. However, we discovered that unusually wet weather conditions earlier in the year led to higher inflows and increased nutrient levels in the ash dam. Around the same time, a rare event called a “turnover” — where deeper layers of water mix with surface layers — disrupted the ash dam’s balance. Together, these factors resulted in odour emissions coming from the ash dam.

After engaging an independent expert to analyse our water quality data and advise on the matter, we reduced water levels in the ash dam and installed additional aerators to restore the water’s microbial balance.

We will be updating our ash dam management procedures and will continue to engage with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) regarding odours in the region.

While we can’t promise that there won’t be odour issues in the future, we can assure you that we will always do our best to respond quickly to community concerns. We understand odours in the Swanbank area impact daily life, and we appreciate the community’s patience while we worked through this issue.

For any further questions, please email community@cleancoqld.com.au

Published 5 June 2025 

CleanCo has been working closely with our neighbours, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) and independent technical experts to better understand and address increased odour in the Swanbank area. 

Weather conditions in April and May resulted in increased inflow to our ash dam, raising water levels and potentially contributing to the odour that some residents have noticed in the area. As an immediate step, CleanCo has been removing water from the ash dam to help reduce water levels and mitigate potential impacts. 

We’ve also increased air and water quality testing to support investigations and here’s what we can share so far: 

• Water quality in the ash dam has shown some signs of improvement, and odour levels have reduced. The installation of an additional aerator has been implemented to support these changes. Laboratory tests are ongoing to monitor nutrient levels and microbial balance. 

• Expert advice is on hand. We’ve engaged environmental consultants to help identify and implement further treatment options, including long-term solutions to mitigate similar issues in the future. 

CleanCo is committed to evidenced-based environmental management and will continue to undertake daily air and water quality monitoring to make sure we stay on top of the issue. 

To talk to us about this matter please email community@cleancoqld.com.au  

Thank you for your patience as we work through this.