CASSOWARY AND GLIDER HABITAT IN NEW PARK NEAR CARDWELL

Habitat for cassowaries and mahogany gliders has better protection thanks to the declaration of Girramay National Park about 6km south-east of Cardwell.

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the 240ha park, at Oyster Point just south of the Port Hinchinbrook development, protected woodland and mangrove communities along the Hinchinbrook Channel.

“The gazettal of the park follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between QPWS and Girramay people in May 2006 which was developed as part of the Girramay native title mediation,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“The Girramay’s native title rights and interests are not affected by the gazettal of the park.

“The area was unallocated State land and has significant ecological values. National park status gives a higher level of protection for those values, and fulfils a long-standing State and Commonwealth commitment to make this area a national park.

“Girramay National Park has a 4km frontage to the channel, and adjoins the Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park and Girringun National Park. It’s bounded by Five Mile Creek at the bottom end.

“Half the park is covered by mangrove forest and open shrubland that is regularly inundated by the tide. The inter-tidal area is within a State marine park.

“About a quarter of the park is essential habitat for the endangered cassowary, which also uses the remainder of the park. The park also has pockets of essential habitat for the endangered mahogany glider.

“Girramay is habitat for waders, kingfishers, raptors, doves, honeyeaters, and many other bird species, and estuarine crocodiles.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said there were no visitor facilities at the park at this stage, and no public access by road.

Media contact: Karla Steen 333368004