A project designed to reduce light pollution on turtles nesting at Mon Repos beach near Bundaberg has received a major funding boost thanks to the Newman Government’s Everyone’s Environment program.
Volunteers from the Gidarjil (Aboriginal) Development Corporation will assist in planting native trees in strategic locations to reduce light from Bargara reaching the Mon Repos Turtle Rookery and improve water quality in the area.
Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett, said the project was one of two in the area to receive funding through the Everyone’s Environment grants, with a local group’s plan to plant 500 rainforest trees near Childers also receiving support.
“These projects are the result of some fantastic partnerships between volunteers, local councils and development groups,” Mr Bennett said.
“This funding represents a $17,000 investment in our local environment and the Newman Government is proud to support these initiatives.”
“We know the turtles at Mon Repos are loved by our local community and draw thousands of visitors to the region each year. By supporting these projects we not only improve environmental outcomes we can deliver real benefits for the whole area.”
Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection, Andrew Powell said Everyone’s Environment grants will provide $12million in funding to practical environmental projects over the next three years.
“We received more than 200 submissions for Round One grants, totalling almost $9 million in funding requests. Nearly $1.3 million will be allocated under the first phase of the grants program with further announcements of successful first-round recipients to take place in January 2013.”
Applications for round two of the grants will be called in the middle of next year.