Buderim has recorded more wastewater blockages than any other suburb across Unitywater’s service region, topping the list with 237 incidents in the past financial year.
A Growing Concern For Residents
Buderim has outpaced Caboolture, Nambour and Redcliffe for wastewater blockages, according to Unitywater’s figures released on 18 August 2025. The region saw 4,395 blockages across Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Noosa, with Buderim alone making up nearly 6 per cent.
Unitywater linked the problem to everyday habits, from flushing wipes and nappies to pouring fats and oils down the sink. These actions harden in pipes, causing clogs that can back up into homes or spill onto streets.
Why Buderim Is On Top Of The List
According to Unitywater, the high number of blockages in Buderim reflects the impact of population density and household behaviour. The suburb’s ranking was well ahead of other hotspots, including Caboolture with 134 blockages and Redcliffe with 92.
The utility said the cost of responding to these incidents is significant. Each callout requires staff to clear the pipes, manage overflows, and protect nearby creeks and natural areas from contamination. For Buderim residents, the figures highlight how local actions can have direct consequences for both household plumbing and the wider environment.
Steps Being Taken To Address The Problem
Unitywater is stepping up efforts to stop blockages, from new treatments at pump stations to community education. One method uses magnesium hydroxide liquid, better known as a heartburn remedy, to cut odours and stop fats hardening in pipes.
The utility is also pushing the “three Ps” rule, asking households to only flush pee, poo and toilet paper. Locals are urged to make small changes like keeping bins in bathrooms, scraping plates before washing, and storing used cooking oil in jars.
A Community Issue With Shared Responsibility
Unitywater is urging Buderim residents to take action, saying blockages are a community issue as much as a utility one. Simple changes at home can prevent sewage backing up into bathrooms or spilling onto streets.
The advice is straightforward, stop flushing wipes and rethink how fats and scraps are handled in the kitchen. With Buderim recording the most blockages in the region, the warning carries extra weight.
Published 19-August-2025