Fireworks blockade blows illegal explosives plans

Police and explosives inspectors have seized 120 kilograms of fireworks entering Queensland illegally from the Northern Territory.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the fireworks were seized from 20 vehicles during a three-day joint operation on the Barkly Highway north of Mount Isa.

The joint operation by explosives inspectors, police and transport inspectors also led to drug and unlicensed driving charges and traffic infringement notices.

Dr Lynham said the operation was timed to follow the annual Territory Day celebrations on 1 July in the NT.

“Northern Territory authorities allow the sale of fireworks for use by the general public during Territory Day celebrations,” he said.

“It is estimated that more than 100 tonnes of fireworks are imported into the Northern Territory each year for these celebrations.

“Unused fireworks are taken out of the Northern Territory to be sold on the black market or kept for personal use around Australia; including Queensland.”

Dr Lynham said the sale, transport, possession and use of fireworks by any person other than a licensed fireworks operator has been banned in Queensland since 1972.

“Fireworks are dangerous and present a serious health, safety and security risk to all Australians.

“The maximum penalty for illegally possessing, transporting, selling or using fireworks in Queensland is a $47,380 fine or six months imprisonment.

“This operation sends a clear message to traffickers of fireworks that Queensland will take action to prevent illegal fireworks entering our community,” he said.

Police Minister Jo-Ann Miller said appropriate compliance action was being taken against persons involved for alleged offences under the Explosives Act 1999.

“In the wrong hands, these kind of items can be extremely dangerous and I don’t want to see any Queenslander killed or seriously injured,” Minister Miller said.

“Mount Isa police served 24 people with notices to appear in court on explosives offences following the operation conducted between 3-5 July 2015,” she said.

“In addition to locating fireworks, vehicle compliance audits and random breath testing were also done. 

“Thirty-four people were issued with traffic infringement notices, three people were detected for unlicensed driving and nine people were also charged with possession of dangerous drugs.”

Transport inspectors intercepted 140 heavy vehicles and issued 20 infringement notices, including three for dangerous goods as well as four defect notices.

Ends

8 July, 2015

Media contact:           Brent Davidson         0438 696 185

                                    Jan Martin                 3719 7370       0439 341 314