Treasurer commits to Cleaning Up the Bay campaign

Queensland MPs are throwing their support behind a campaign to clean up Moreton Bay, with Treasurer Tim Nicholls leading the charge as the event’s Patron.

He joined Clubs Queensland CEO Doug Flockhart in Manly today to launch the inaugural Cleaning Up the Bay campaign.

Mr Nicholls said he was looking forward to promoting Moreton Bay in the lead up to the Clubs Queensland Cleaning Up the Bay day on Sunday December 1.

“When time permits, I like nothing more than getting out on the Bay, in my 14 foot tinnie, with my three kids,” Mr Nicholls said.

“Moreton Bay is the perfect location to spend some quality time with the family. It’s even better when we wet a line and return home with dinner.

“That’s why this event is so important. Clubs Queensland’s Cleaning Up the Bay campaign is an opportunity to give back to a part of Brisbane that has given us so much.

“The Bay’s health is vital to sustaining strong local tourism and commercial boating and fishing industries. Economic growth creates jobs.

“I encourage local, state and federal elected representatives of all political stripes, from Bribie Island to Redland Bay, to participate in this very worthwhile initiative.”

Member for Lytton Neil Symes, who signed on as a Cleaning Up the Bay Ambassador, said community clubs were an important part of Moreton Bay’s social fabric.

“Local sporting and recreation clubs have helped make the Moreton Bay lifestyle what it is today,” Mr Symes said.

“Moreton Bay is central to everything we do here in Lytton, and that’s why I’m so passionate about making sure it remains in the pristine condition it is today.”

Minister for Environment Andrew Powell congratulated Clubs Queensland for initiating the campaign.

“The Cleaning Up the Bay campaign is a great example of how banding together for the betterment of the Bay can benefit both the environment and the community,” Mr Powell said.

“Earlier this year I saw first-hand how marine debris can affect the health of the marine life out in Moreton Bay and I commend Clubs Queensland for launching this fantastic campaign.”

Mr Flockhart thanked the MPs for their support.

“Clubs Queensland is excited to have Mr Nicholls as Patron of the inaugural community campaign as it illustrates not only his personal support for this initiative, but also the Newman Government’s commitment to Moreton Bay,” Mr Flockhart said.

To find out more, please follow the event at www.facebook.com/cleaningupthebay or telephone Clubs Queensland on 3252 0770.

[ENDS] 13 October 2013

Media Contact: Larine Statham (Mr Nicholls) 0429 565 694 
                      Amy Coady (Mr Flockhart) 0418 528 176