Navigating the roads of Australia can sometimes feel like an adventure, with its vast landscapes and unique wildlife.

However, there's a hidden danger that could appear on the road, one that's not as easily spotted as a kangaroo hopping across the tarmac.


Sinkholes—sneaky chasms that open up without warning—could pose a serious threat to drivers, pedestrians, and property.

Thanks to a Mosman local's quick wit, a simple household item became an unexpected hero of the hour in averting a potential disaster.

The man placed a red wheelie bin in the middle of a road.

While some saw it as an act of random littering, it was the local's quick response to a developing sinkhole.


Initially small in size, the sinkhole had the potential to expand and become a significant risk to the public.

Councillor Simon Menzies of Mosman praised the resident's ingenuity and highlighted the importance of such proactive measures.

'The resident got to it very early, and it was small, but the concern was someone would have driven over the top of it, and the whole thing could have collapsed and the car fell in,' Councillor Menzies shared in an interview.

The wheelie bin acted as a makeshift warning sign and prevented vehicles from driving over the sinkhole.


The council immediately dispatched workers to the site of the sinkhole to address the issue.

Thanks to the resident's quick wit and the council's action, the sinkhole was repaired, and the road was made safe once again.

Councillor Menzies acknowledged the dual benefit of preventing vehicular damage and safeguarding pedestrians and pets from falling in.

Sinkholes have been a phenomenon caused by the erosion of underground rock, often exacerbated by water flow.

These holes could be particularly perilous when they form under roads or buildings.

These sinkholes, when enlarged, could lead to sudden and unexpected collapses.

While storms could increase the likelihood of sinkholes, they could still occur at any time, making them a challenging hazard.


Australia has witnessed its fair share of sinkholes over the years.

One such case was at a major tourist road near the Victorian Alps, which closed down due to the same problem.

The sinkhole immediately disrupted many Australians' travel plans and caused lengthy detours.

Sydney's Dover Heights and an area near the city's M6 freeway have also been affected by these sudden ground collapses.

Although Councillor Menzies reassured the public that sinkholes are 'not common' in Australia, their unpredictability remains a concern.

It's important to stay vigilant and informed about the potential hazards in the environment.

If you ever come across a sinkhole or any road hazard, take a leaf out of the Mosman resident's book and alert the authorities immediately.
Have you ever encountered a sinkhole or used an inventive method to warn others of a danger? Please share your stories with us, and let's keep the conversation going about staying safe on Aussie roads.