CURTIS ISLAND STUDY

Acting Premier Paul Lucas today announced the Environmental Management Precinct on Curtis Island will be studied to determine its ecological, environmental and heritage values.

“This area will become a green space for the people of Gladstone, it’s important we determine exactly what needs to be protected,” said Mr Lucas.

“We’ve listened to community concerns and declared 75% of the recent extension to the State Development Area off limits to industry by placing it in this Environmental Management Precinct.

“This means consideration will be given to rehabilitating degraded land, protecting areas of high ecological value and any other use that would be compatible, such as walking trails and access to recreational fishing areas.

“But first we need to take a close look at the current state of this land, which is a real mix of cattle country and areas with ecological value.”

A reference group is being established to guide the Environmental Management Precinct’s future, with representatives from the Department of Infrastructure and Planning, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Natural Resources and Water and Gladstone Regional Council.

Gladstone Regional Council will play an important role by representing the community of Gladstone.

“I’m keen to see the reference group explore opportunities for community involvement, such as inspections of the Environmental Management Precinct, when it meets for the first time next month,” said Mr Lucas.

“The people of Gladstone will play an ongoing role in shaping this part of Curtis Island.

“They will be informed of the preliminary findings of the study and then have the chance to provide feedback, once about 6 months of information has been gathered.

“When the study is complete, which could take up to a year, people will have another chance to provide feedback and guide the development of management plans.

”The LNG industry has the potential to provide a massive shot in the arm for the local economy through new jobs.

“But its not just about that – there should be environmental and social benefits of investment in the Gladstone community.

“That’s why the State Government will expect the LNG industry to play a critical role in rehabilitating this Environmental Management Precinct.”

The study will not include an important 290 hectare nature reserve and turtle hatchery on the east coast of Curtis Island, which has already been entirely removed from the State Development Area and remains under EPA management.

Media inquiries: Matt Klar 0437 435 223