Public consultation on Moreton Bay Review?

[Shane Boese]

A recent phone call to the EPA regarding the scheduled “public involvement” on the Moreton Bay Review has revealed some worrying information.

The EPA representative advised that the “public involvement” will entail displays only, and the opportunity to discuss the displays with the EPA representative in attendance.

There are NO scheduled public forums. There will be NO public presentations aside from the displays, that allow for interested and concerned parties to express their ideas and concerns in relation to the Rezoning Review.

I would advise that we all make the most of this narrow opportunity to make the EPA aware of the passion of local fishermen and boaties in regard to Moreton Bay.

Another EPA representative on a subsequent call advised that there is NO intention to distribute information brochures to the General Public. As a business operator, I received one copy only of the timetable schedule for SE Qld and one brochure – I have requested additional copies to distribute to customers, and once requested, EPA were happy to send them out. So ring them, and ask cos if you don’t, you wont get anything! EPA: 1800 105 789 Email:moreton.bay@epa.gov.au

Reference is made to ''extensive community consultation" AFTER the release of the draft plan - it worries me that the community does not appear to be given the opportunity to participate in the formulation of the Draft Plan.

EPA does invite you to participate in the process by doing the survey on their website, which amounts to marking positions on their map for your favourite activities! There still appears to be no provision for you to express your concerns or opinions – just give over your favourite fishing and boating spots!
http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/mbmp/feedback.php

To download their publication “Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan review – The process explained” http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/parks_and_forests/marine_parks/moreton_bay_marine_park_zoning_plan_review/

Regards,
Shane Boese

[Ozwald]

I reckon Mr Rudd and Mr Laming should be asked to exert a little pressure on their state collegues to make the process a little more inclusive.........

[Derek Bullock]

Minister for Environment and Multiculturalism
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr

Friday, February 23, 2007
Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan review launched

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr today called on south east Queenslanders to get involved in a major review of the Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan.
Ms Nelson-Carr said over the next few months everyone who had an interest in the marine park, which stretches 125 kilometres from Caloundra to the Gold Coast Seaway, could have their say about how it can be used and preserved for future generations.
“The marine park is home to more than 750 species of fish, 120 species of corals and the greatest number and diversity of whales and dolphins found anywhere in Australia. It is the only place in the world where turtles and dugong still live on the doorstep of a major city.
“The current zoning plan for the marine park expires on 1 September 2008 and legislation states it must be reviewed by that date.
“With the population in the MoretonBay region at one and a half million, and growing rapidly, it needs to be determined whether the current zoning plan is doing enough to protect this unique asset.
“I want to make it absolutely clear that, despite claims from some interest groups, no decisions have been made about what changes may be needed.
“There are no pre-determined zones, we are working from a blank sheet of paper,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
Any changes to the current zoning plan will only be proposed after environmental, economic, cultural and social data is collected and analysed.
“That’s what this review is all about - seeking the input of everyone and anyone who is interested in conserving the unique values of MoretonBayMarinePark, so that it can be used sustainably now and into the future.
“Our first priority is to gather scientific, social and economic data to get a full picture of what activities and natural values are important in the marine park,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“The EPA will be asking a wide range of people for their views and input.
“There will be eight community display forums between Caloundra and the Gold Coast during March 2007 so that people can see how the review is being conducted, and how they can provide information into the process.
“Advice will also be sought from an expert advisory panel, chaired by Professor Paul Greenfield (AO) of University of Queensland.
“The EPA will also gain advice from a stakeholder reference group made up of key marine park user groups, as well as holding individual meetings with marine park users,” Ms Nelson Carr said.
“After collecting and analysing this information and advice, the EPA will be recommending what a zoning plan should look like.”
“When the draft zoning plan is released later this year, it will be available for public comment for at least two months, and we will continue our engagement with the community and key marine park user groups,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
MoretonBayMarinePark was declared in 1993 and extended in 1997.
“We want to preserve MoretonBayMarinePark’s value so that everyone can enjoy what this amazing asset has to offer now and for our future generations.”
Anyone wanting to provide input on the review or access more information should go to www.epa.qld.gov.au/moretonbay

Media contact: Karla Steen on 3336 8004 or Andie Gatti 3336 8002

[Shane Boese]

Thanks Derek

The media release you have posted has provided a lot more information than the phone staff on the EPA 1800 number.

Here's hoping that the process is as thorough and fair as they would have us believe.

Regards,
Shane Boese

[shayned]

This survey by the EPA rings a bell didn't something similar occur up north whereby the information was used to target fishing areas for closure?????

[baldyhead]

Whatever you do Don't tell them where you FISH ! We did here in the North and THEY Green Zoned every spot marked.
LEARN BY OUR TRUSTING MISTAKES!

baldy

[Ozwald]

Interesting point Baldyhead - I only fish in theshipping channel just off the airport.......however I wont let on that I live in Manila..........

[dnej]

Did anyone happen to note the times for the meetings.3pm till 6pm.Boy that sure cuts out a lot who work, does it not?
Cunning as sewer rats.
David