Sandbags and sandbag stations

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Visit the Disaster Dashboard for open sandbag stations

Find Council sandbag stations

Get ready for the wet season by preparing in advance. Council will provide filled sandbags, or sand and bags for residents to fill themselves, in anticipation of some major weather events following assessments of Bureau of Meteorology forecasts for heavy rain.

Residents can collect up to 10 sandbags per vehicle to ensure the service is available to as many residents as possible. Council will monitor these sites and restock them when possible, subject to weather conditions.

Permanent sandbag locations 

The following sandbag stations are open all year round to assist residents to prepare.

Temporary sandbag locations (open when activated)

Temporary sandbag stations may open depending on the specific weather event. 

Not all temporary sandbag locations will be activated during every weather event.

Use sandbags effectively

Sandbags can help reduce the impact of flooding if placed correctly around your premises and used with a waterproof membrane like plastic sheeting or a tarp. It is important to understand that sandbag walls are not waterproof and won’t stop water completely, so using plastic sheeting with sandbags is recommended to minimise water entering.

Our sandbagging instructional video explains how residents and businesses can use sandbags correctly:

 

For more information about sandbags, visit the State Emergency Service Queensland website.

 

Store sandbags

After collection, sandbags must be stored in a cool, covered area out of direct sunlight and protected from the elements, when not in use. If sandbags are not stored properly, deterioration is likely to occur. Sandbags must be discarded if they show signs of deterioration.

Used non-hessian sandbags that have not come into contact with sewerage, oil or other contaminants can be wiped down and stored for future use and re-used multiple times.

When stored correctly, sandbags should last up to 12 months.

For information about how to store of sandbags, visit the State Emergency Service Queensland website.

Fill and lay sandbags

For information about filling and placement of sandbags around your home or business, visit the State Emergency Service Queensland website.

Dispose of sandbags

If you are unable to store used sandbags or unsure if they are contaminated, these can be opened and sand scattered on lawns and gardens as topsoil, where it will not wash into stormwater drains.

Empty sandbags should be placed in the general waste bin. Do not empty or place full sandbags in your general waste bin.

Sandbags that have come into contact with floodwaters can be disposed of at one of Council’s Recycling and Waste centre locations.

Alternatives

Examples of sandbag alternatives include:

  • Sandless, self‑inflating water‑activated bags: lightweight alternative that requires no filling. These bags automatically expand when exposed to water and can be stored longer than hessian sandbags. Available from major hardware stores, some landscape suppliers, and other retailers.
  • Heavy-duty garbage bags: Fill with sand or soil, seal tightly and stack them like sandbags.
  • Old pillowcases: Stuff with sand or soil. They are strong and easily filled and can be stacked to form a barrier.
  • Tarpaulins: Lay a tarp flat on the ground, add sand or soil, then fold it over to form a makeshift barrier.

Related information

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