Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We understand there are a lot of questions following the cyclone and flooding. Below are some of the most common queries to help guide residents during recovery.

What should I do with the sandbags?

Please return used sandbags to the front of the Shire Depot, where pallets have been placed for collection.

Kindly place the sandbags directly onto the pallets provided.

Location: Carnarvon Shire Depot, 450 Robinson Street, Carnarvon WA 6701

Why is the verge collection happening?

The Shire will be assisting the community and local businesses to clean up their properties which have been impacted by the cyclone. It is not a collection of general household or yard rubbish.

When is the verge collection happening?

A one-off verge collection will take place on Tuesday, 7 April. Please ensure all items are placed on your verge by Tuesday morning.

More information here.

What can I put out for verge collection?

You can place cyclone and flood debris, green waste, and small household items.

More information here.

What items will NOT be collected?

Items include Agricultural waste (eg. large netting, processing waste, chemicals or hazardous materials, large amounts of plastic, spoilt produce, machinery or related materials), caravans, and asbestos will not be collected.
More information here.

What should I do with large or commercial/agricultural waste?

These items are not part of the verge collection and can be taken directly to the Waste Facility if eligible. Fees and charges may apply, please check the Fees & Charges here. If you are unsure about disposal options, please contact the Shire for guidance.

Can I burn green waste on my property?

Burning is not recommended following a cyclone due to safety risks and potential restrictions. Please check current fire restrictions or contact the Shire before burning.

Asbestos Disposal

Can I remove asbestos from my property myself?
Homeowners may remove small amounts of bonded (non-friable) asbestos themselves, generally up to 10m², without requiring a licensed removalist. This includes materials such as asbestos cement sheeting and corrugated roofing.

What asbestos should I NOT handle myself?
Any friable (crumbly) asbestos must not be handled by unlicensed persons and requires a licensed removalist.

What safety precautions should I follow?
If removing small amounts yourself, you must:

  • Wet down materials to reduce dust
  • Use manual (non-powered) tools only
  • Wear appropriate PPE (P1/P2 respirator, disposable coveralls and gloves)
  • Keep people and pets away from the area
  • Clean up using wet methods or suitable vacuum equipment

How do I transport and dispose of asbestos?
Asbestos must be securely wrapped in heavy-duty plastic, labelled “ASBESTOS WASTE”, and transported in a way that prevents fibre release. Disposal must occur at an approved waste facility and may require double-wrapping and prior notice.

Who can remove asbestos for me?
Anything beyond small, non-friable amounts must be handled by a licensed removalist. Local providers include:

  • Paul Porter – 0407 955 956
  • James Gregory – 0407 775 875

Have bin collection days changed?

Yes, due to the Easter long weekend:

  • Friday collections will occur on Thursday, 2 April
  • Monday collections will remain as normal

Please check the Waste Services page or your usual collection schedule here.

Where can I find road closure information?

All highway closures are managed by Main Roads WA. For the latest updates, please visit the Main Roads Travel Map.

Local road closures can be found on our Road Report page.

Our teams are continuing to assess local roads following flooding, and conditions may change quickly. Please drive with caution, follow all signage, and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.

More information here.

Is Pelican Point Road safe to use?

Recent high tides and cyclone impacts have caused erosion along Pelican Point Road, making sections unsafe. The road is currently restricted to local traffic only (residents and Pelican Point Waterfront Resort access). Temporary safety measures are in place, please follow signage, take extra care, and avoid the area during high tides where possible. Updates will be provided as available.

When will levees be removed and roads returned to normal?

Levees on Margaret Row and Boundary Road are scheduled to be removed by Friday, 3 April. Following the Easter holidays, crews will continue with clean-up works to return these roads to normal conditions.

The levee on West Street (near Small Harbour Road) will be removed early next week after the long weekend.

We appreciate your patience as crews work through recovery and clean-up across the network.

Are the Blowholes open?

Yes. Following the reopening of the North West Coastal Highway (north) on Tuesday, 31 March, access to the Blowholes and Quobba/Gnaraloo Road has reopened and visitors are welcome.
If you’re planning to stay, please ensure you book your campsite online prior to arrival here.

How do I report damage in town (roads, trees, infrastructure)?

You can report damage quickly and easily using the Snap Send Solve app. This helps the Shire respond and prioritise works more efficiently. You can also call the Shire on (08) 9941 0000.

What if I don’t have the app?

You can still contact the Shire directly via phone on (08) 9941 0000 or email shire@carnarvon.wa.gov.au to report urgent issues or fill out the Snap Send Solve Webform.

Is it safe now that floodwaters have gone?

While water levels have receded, there may still be hidden hazards such as unstable ground, debris, contamination, or damaged infrastructure. Please remain cautious.

Can I swim or enter waterways?

It is not recommended immediately after flooding due to contamination risks and debris.

What should I do if my property was flooded?

Take care when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, watch for mould, and safely dispose of damaged items. If in doubt, seek professional advice.

Where can I get updates?

Continue to follow updates from the following sources:

If you need assistance that isn’t covered here, please contact the Shire directly via phone on (08) 9941 0000 or email shire@carnarvon.wa.gov.au directly. We will continue updating this page as recovery progresses.

What are the Shire’s opening hours, including over Easter?

Shire Administration

Office Hours: Mon - Fri, 9am - 4pm

Closed from Good Friday (3 April) to Easter Monday (6 April)
Reopens Tuesday 7 April


Library & Art Gallery

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9.30am - 5pm
Wednesday: 9.30am - 5pm
Thursday: 9.30am - 5pm
Friday: 9.30am - 5pm
Saturday: 9.30am - 12.30pm
Sunday: Closed

Closed from Good Friday (3 April) to Easter Monday (6 April)
Reopens Tuesday 7 April


Visitor Centre

Monday - Friday: 9am – 3pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Closed:
Good Friday (3 April)
Easter Sunday (5 April)
Easter Monday (6 April)

Open:
Saturday 4 April – 8:00am to 12:00pm

Reopens as usual Tuesday 7 April

How can I seek information on visiting the region?

For the latest travel information and visitor updates, please contact the Carnarvon Visitor Centre on (08) 9941 1146 or via email at info@carnarvon.org.au or read the travel update.

The Visitor Centre can assist with up-to-date advice on attractions and local conditions.

If you need assistance that isn’t covered here, please contact the Shire directly. We will continue updating this page as recovery progresses.