Minister Wallace announces proposed nomination of Wenlock Basin as a Wild River

Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace today announced the proposed nomination of the Wenlock basin, located on the west coast of Cape York Peninsula, as a Wild River area.

Mr Wallace said the Wenlock basin is recognised as having a high diversity of freshwater fish species and some of the largest breeding populations of estuarine crocodiles in Queensland.

“The Bligh Government is committed to protecting and securing the unique biodiversity of our environment, as part of our vision for Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland,” Mr Wallace said.

“Our unique Wild Rivers legislation aims to protect Queensland rivers for current and future Queenslanders and the world.

“The proposed Wenlock Basin Wild River Area covers approximately 7435 square kilometres and encompasses the catchment of the Wenlock River and 13 major tributaries.

“The proposed wild river area has near-natural water flows with no major weirs or levees to obstruct water and sediment flow.

“Minimal pollution and sediment movement has also ensured the water quality in the rivers and streams of the basin remains in very good condition.

“This basin, which has largely been untouched by development, is a vital part of our natural heritage.

“The Bligh Government is committed to ensuring it can be preserved for all to enjoy, now and into the future.’’

Mr Wallace said the declaration of a wild river under the Wild Rivers Act 2005 does not preclude all future development in a wild river area.

“Activities such as mining, grazing, fishing, eco-tourism, outstation development and indigenous cultural activities can all still occur. The Act simply ensures these activities do not adversely impact on the natural values present in a declared wild river area.

“This proposal is about ensuring the natural biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected, and any developments are undertaken responsibly, without detriment to the basin area.”

One of the largest proposed developments in the area is on a mineral lease held by Rio Tinto Alcan.

“Rio Tinto clearly recognise the natural values of the area, and have shown a strong commitment to working with government to ensure their activities do not harm the basin.

“We will continue to work with Rio Tinto, and all other stakeholders in the basin, to ensure a balance between responsible development and environmental protection is achieved.”

Mr Wallace said the declaration proposal also ensures a reserve of water is available to support the future economic and social aspirations of Indigenous communities in a proposed wild river area.

The Department of Natural Resources and Water’s Wild Rivers’ team will now commence community consultation regarding the proposal across the Wenlock basin.

Submissions on the proposed Wenlock Basin wild river declaration proposal close on 29 May 2009. Details can be found at: www.nrw/qld.gov.au/wildrivers or by phoning
(07) 4039 8281 or (07) 4039 8332.

Media contact: Minister Wallace’s office, 3896 3688.