MCNAMARA MEETS RESIDENTS TO DISCUSS COOLOOLA PLAN

Sustainability Minister Andrew McNamara has met with residents from Rainbow Beach and Teewah to discuss the Government’s long-term plan for the management of the Cooloola region.

Mr McNamara said he invited the community representatives to come back to the Government with firm submissions on matters they raised.

He said the meeting was productive and discussed a range of issues.

“As the people on the ground, I value their continued input,” Mr McNamara said. “No one has a mortgage on good ideas and I am keen to hear from the community on how we can balance the need to preserve an ecologically sensitive region while maintaining its popularity. “

Mr McNamara said issues raised included the possible introduction of day or weekend passes for 4WDs on restricted beaches, allowing 4WDs to access Inskip Point beach to ferry disabled people and the part Rainbow Beach could play in future weather-related evacuations of Fraser Island camping grounds.

“I have an open mind on all of these matters,” he said. “It is encouraging to see that these community representatives are participating on the process.”

Mr McNamara urged anyone with an interest in the region to read  Strategic Directions for Cooloola, which sets out the Government's long-term vision to protect the region’s unique ecosystem while maintaining public access to one of Queensland’s most popular recreation areas. It is available on the EPA website.

The plan complements the Government’s application to have the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy National Park World Heritage-listed, which will be lodged early next year.

Media: Scott Dixon 0439 761 416