PUBLIC OPINION SOUGHT ON RECREATION AREA MANAGEMENT PLANS

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr today called for public views on proposed regulations for the management of Queensland’s five recreation areas – Green Island near Cairns, and Fraser Island, Moreton Island, Bribie Island and Inskip Peninsula in the state’s south-east.

Ms Nelson-Carr said the new regulations would help protect these special places and would replace outdated legislation created in the 1980s.

“This is about ensuring these areas are maintained and protected for generations to come while still being enjoyed today.

“The regulations cover a range of management issues such as fees, displaying of camping tags, and litter and waste disposal.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said fee waivers would also be introduced for volunteers assisting with conservation, and the regulations would clarify the eligibility rules for vehicle permit fee exemptions to ensure there was consistency between Fraser, Moreton and Bribie islands.

“The six week consultation process is intended to provide people with the opportunity to express their views, including any alternative suggestions, and to allow those views to be considered in shaping the regulations,” she said.

The regulations will operate under the Recreation Areas Management Act 2006 passed by the Queensland Parliament in April last year.

Proposed regulations are contained in a document available on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website at www.epa.qld.gov.au

The closing date for more information or to have a say on the plan is 27 April 2007.

Media contact: Karla Steen on 3336 8004 or Andie Gatti on 3336 8002