Local anglers, boaties, conservationists, traditional owners and water lovers can help shape the future of the Great Sandy Marine Park said Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett.
The Department of Environment and Science is reviewing the Marine Parks (Great Sandy) Zoning Plan and the ‘Great Sandy Marine Park Discussion Paper – Zoning Plan Opportunities’ has been released today.
Burnett MP Stephen Bennett said the discussion paper has suggested extending the boundary of existing Turtle Protection Areas in our region.
“The paper also suggests the introduction of a conservation park zone between Burnett Heads and Burkitt’s Reef along with the introduction of seasonal use restrictions or a go slow area in the Moore Park area similar to Mon Repos,” he said.
“While I’m encouraging all our anglers, both commercial and recreational to have a look at this paper as well and speak up on what they believe could help to balance conservation and sustainable use within the park.
“There’s a suggestion to provide greater clarity on the definition of commercial bait netting in conservation park zones.
“The GSMP protects an area of about 6 000 km2 along the Bundaberg/Fraser Coast and is home to a diverse range of animals and vegetation.
“It’s our job to explore opportunities to better protect this environment while continuing to allow our recreational and commercial activities to prosper.”
The closing date for submissions is 5 pm Monday, 25 February 2019, using the following
• online survey
• email: [email protected]
• mail: Great Sandy Marine Park zoning plan review
Department of Environment and Science
PO Box 15187
CITY EAST QLD 4002
For a copy of the discussion paper visit https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/great-sandy-marine/pdf/gsmp-zone-plan-disc-paper.pdf or more information visit the get Involved website – www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.
15.01.19