Water resource plan for Baffle Creek Basin
Published Thursday, 26 October, 2006 at 03:00 PM
Minister for Natural Resources and Water
The Honourable Kerry Shine
The Queensland Government will prepare a draft Water Resource Plan for the Baffle Creek Basin between Bundaberg and Gladstone.
Natural Resources and Water Minister Kerry Shine said the draft plan will address coastal growth in the towns of Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water and underpin provide water supply security for users and the environment.
“Growth highlights the importance of a water resource plan,” Mr Shine said.
“The draft plan will include strategies to maintain the health of the area’s rivers and estuaries.”
Public notices will appear in local newspapers outlining the area to be covered, the locations and timing of public information sessions and how the community can become involved in the water resource planning process for the Baffle Creek Basin.
The information report provides details that explain the planning process and issues that will be considered, and is available at http://www.nrm.qld.gov.au/wrp/baffle_basin.html or contact the NRW Bundaberg office on 1800 135 531.
The draft plan will be developed with significant input from a community reference panel and assessments of the relationship between the plan area’s water resources and its ecology, economy and people.
NRW is also seeking nominations from community members who wish to be part of the Baffle Creek Basin Community Reference Panel.
This role of the panel is to assist in identifying issues, reviewing information and providing information and advice during the development of the water resources plan.
A nomination kit is available from the NRW website at www.nrm.qld.gov.au/wrp/baffle_basin.html or by contacting the NRW Bundaberg office.
The deadline for submissions and nominations for the community reference panel is 11 December 2006.
Map available on request
26 October 2006
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3896 3689 or 0418 197 350