An eagle-eyed Council worker has rescued war medals from a pile of waste at Gatton Landfill.

Tim, one of Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s heavy machinery operators, was working at the facility last week when he spotted an unusual container in a pile of rubbish and reported it to his supervisor.

Intrigued, he had a closer look, opening it up to reveal four official war medals inside.

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Waste Portfolio Councillor Julie Reck said fate intervened.

“If it hadn’t been for Tim, these priceless and precious medals would have wound up in landfill, likely never to be seen again,” she said.

“This was a wonderful stroke of luck and, no doubt, the owner will be very grateful to have these important keepsakes back in their possession.”

The council has since reunited the four medals with its thankful owners.