$300,000 for Northern Brisbane restoration projects

Two waterways in Northern Brisbane will benefit from a $300,000 investment by the Newman Government.

Member for Clayfield Tim Nicholls said the funding would be delivered as part of the Queensland Regional Natural Resources Management Investment Program.

“There is a one hectare zone of mangroves, marine couch and salt marsh at the edge of the Brisbane River, which has a very high potential for fishing and recreation,” Mr Nicholls said.

“However, the shoreline zone at Myrtletown that buffers the northern banks of the River has been degraded by illegal dumping and vehicle traffic, leaving the area in a very poor condition.

“Project managers SEQ Catchments will clean, define, repair and protect a 150 metre reach of the shoreline zone.”

Mr Nicholls said a second project targeting Kedron Brook would deliver improved water quality and bank stability.

“The reach at Schulz Canal was badly damaged by the January 2011 flood and has left the exposed bank infested with weeds,” he said.

“Stabilising this reach, removing the weeds and planting vegetation will also protect Albert Bishop Park  by reducing erosion and enhancing mangrove development.

“SEQ Catchments will target the 100 metre long reach of Kedron Brook immediately downstream of the Hedley Avenue stormwater discharge pipe at the eastern end of Albert Bishop Park.”

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps  said the restoration projects were two of six state strategic projects to improve water quality for South-East Queensland waterways.

“More than $1 million will be invested in these projects to restore creeks and improve water quality and local ecosystems, and will be completed by mid-2015,” Mr Cripps said.

“This funding delivers on the Newman Government’s commitment to improve our natural resources while building a four pillar economy.

“We support the productive and responsible use of natural resources, something that was ignored by Labor.”

SEQ Catchments Chief Executive Officer Simon Warner said it was a chance for the community to help beautify a visible reach of the Brisbane River.

“We need to remove litter and weeds, manage sea grasses and encourage the mangroves,” Mr Warner said.

“SEQ Catchments will organise a  community planting day during the project so locals can be a part of restoring areas that are perfect for fishing and recreation.

"We will also repair a confined access walking-track into the area at the river’s edge at two locations.

“This project will improve the area’s fisheries habitat, amenity, conservation and recreational values while providing a blueprint for future similar work.

“SEQ Catchments also will work with Brisbane City Council and consult directly with local businesses.”

More information about Queensland’s regional NRM groups and the Queensland Regional NRM Investment Program is available at www.dnrm.qld.gov.au 

[ENDS] 15 April 2014

Media contact:  Eleisha Rogers 0413 375 088