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Illegal worker accommodation stopped

A farmer who crammed no fewer than 74 overseas workers into a marquee in his backyard has been successfully prosecuted by the Southern Downs Regional Council, according to Warwick Daily Times.

Jan Idec of Thulimbah, north of Stanthorpe, appeared in the Planning and Environment Court in Brisbane last week where he was found guilty of running illegal accommodation.

The council originally sought an enforcement order on March 27 to force Mr Idec to remove the marquee from the 14ha property. He does have an approval from the council for a resort including guest accommodation, wine tasting and sales, function rooms and stables and currently operates a guest house and cottages, according to the Warwick Daily Times.

Mr Idec was ordered to dismantle the marquee immediately but his penalty is yet to be handed down.

“Council staff and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services personnel inspected the property and were greatly concerned about the potential for loss of life in the event of a fire,” a councillor said.
“The council is vigilant about the illegal housing of backpackers and seasonal workers in the council area and this case has proved that our efforts are worthwhile. Our farmers value the backpackers and seasonal workers who pick fruit and vegetables. Their input helps drive our local economy and these workers deserve to have safe and comfortable accommodation during their stay on the Southern Downs.”

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