Residents take an active approach to managing the coast
25 August 2009
WHEN it comes to our beaches, residents are passionate about protecting them.
Thats why Mackay Regional Council and Reef Catchments are seeking community feedback on newly devised draft beach management plans.
Draft plans for Midge Point, Eimeo, Seaforth, Ball Bay and Haliday Bay are now
available on councils website (www.mackay.qld.gov.au/environment/coastal_management) and residents are encouraged to read them and put forth their views at free barbecue get-togethers to be held at the following venues:
Saturday, September 5
- Eimeo Esplanade Reserve from 9am to 10am
- Nielsen Parade at Midge Point from 12pm to 1.30pm
Saturday, September 12
- Seaforth Esplanade Reserve from 9.30am to 11am
- Ball Bay picnic and camping area from 11.30am to 1pm
- Haliday Bay picnic area from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.
Based on the Coastal Management Guidelines (CMG), adopted by council in May 2009, these draft plans, which set the intent for the future management of coastal land, are among 20 that that will be devised by council and Reef Catchments.
Parks and Natural Environment councilor Karen May said excellent feedback had been received so far in response to the draft plans for Shoal Point, Bucasia and Blacks Beach.
About 150 people turned up to the last round of barbecues to discuss how we can all work together to achieve common beach protection goals.
At the top of residents priority lists were revegetation, weed control, beach access maintenance and reducing litter and vandalism, she said.
Its pleasing to see so many people have a sense of ownership and pride in their local beach and many have said they would like to take part in community working bees to promote revegetation and control weeds.
Shoal Point residents were also full of praise for revegetation and weed control work conducted recently at their beach as part of councils Bringing Back the Beach Scrub project, supported by Reef Catchments and the Australian Government.
The Mackay Coast Project, which incorporates the development of the CMG and individual beach management plans and is a partnership between council and Reef Catchments, was made possible courtesy of councils Natural Environment Levy, the Australian Governments Caring for our Country program, and State funding.
Those unable to attend the barbecues can complete the survey on councils website. Surveys will also be available at councils libraries and customer service centres (post to Mackay Regional Council, PO Box 41, Mackay, Qld, 4740).
For a hard copy of the draft beach plans, call 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529).
For further assistance/comment:
Parks and Natural Environment portfolio councillor Karen May 0419 669 134
Corporate communications officer Penne Kaddatz 961 9446