Published Thursday, 03 July, 2008 at 03:14 PM

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew McNamara

Karawatha Forest restoration nominated for Queensland environment award

A partnership to rehabilitate Karawatha forest is in the running for one of Queensland’s top environmental Awards.

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation, Andrew McNamara, today announced that a joint partnership between Powerlink, Forest Restorations and Karawatha Forest Protection Society Inc, is a finalist in the 2008 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Sustainable Industries Awards.

“Powerlink Queensland contracted Forest Restorations in 2005 to control 20 hectares of vegetation under powerlines in Karawatha Forest,” Mr McNamara said.

“Three years later, regular weed control and flora surveys have resulted in a thriving landscape.

“Plant species diversity in Karawatha Forest has tripled, providing more protection and shelter for wildlife.

“The project has also reduced the risk of vegetation to power lines and decreased fire risk, and the restoration process has returned the site to a self-sustaining ecosystem.”

Mr McNamara said the finalists had been selected from more than 100 innovative entries from small business to large multi-million dollar companies, showcasing Queensland's diverse range of ‘sustainability champions’.

“We have visionary companies right here in Queensland that are committed to developing innovative products and practices that reduce consumption of fossil fuels water, waste and greenhouse gas emissions,” Mr McNamara said.

Member for Stretton, Stephen Robertson, congratulated the partnership on becoming a finalist in the awards.

“The partnership have worked hard to improve the quality of our environment,” Mr Robertson said.

“Forest Restorations have used targeted weed control methods and extensive plant species knowledge to control and restore vegetation in Karawatha Forest,” he said.

The Sustainability Partnerships Award category, sponsored by Conics and Natural Solutions, is awarded for a sustainability outcome achieved in partnership with a government and/or community organisation.

The 2008 Environmental Protection Agency Sustainable Industries Awards aim to increase awareness of the advantages of sustainable practices such as reducing energy and water use, reducing waste and minimising greenhouse gas emissions.

Winners will be announced at a gala dinner at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Convention Centre on Friday, 31 October 2008.

For more information visit www.epa.qld.gov.au or contact the EPA Sustainable Industries Division on 3225 1999.

Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004