Sweetwater Fishing Forums
General Category => News Views & Press Releases => Topic started by: Editor on November 17, 2013, 02:18:41 PM
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Media Statements
Minister for Energy and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark McArdle
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Time to discuss Lakes Cooloolabin and Wappa
Sunshine Coast residents have been invited to have their say, as part of the most extensive review of recreation in South East Queensland dams and catchments ever undertaken.
Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said the discussion paper about Lakes Cooloolabin and Wappa would identify ways that future generations could also enjoy them.
“This unprecedented review is part of the Newman Government’s commitment to grow local tourism opportunities, as we promised at the election, and increase recreation activities,” Mr McArdle said.
“This is an important part of developing a vision for the future, something Labor failed to do during its years in Government.”
Mr McArdle said the discussion paper provided a review of the various activities currently available as well as an opportunity for local residents to submit ideas about other opportunities.
“These Sunshine Coast lakes are wonderful public assets. Getting local residents involved in the planning process will deliver better long-term outcomes, as well as increase participation in local sporting and recreation activities,” he said.
“We want everyone to be involved – from the visitors to the people who live close to the lakes.”
Seqwater Chief Executive Officer, Terri Benson, said as many of the freshwater lakes are also drinking water storages, the review will need to balance the diversity of recreation activities against ensuring no adverse impact on water quality.
“The review will result in the development of recreation management plans detailing allowable activities, available facilities, management rules and guidelines,” Ms Benson said.
Mr McArdle said Poona Dam would not be considered in the review, because it was an integral component of the water treatment process at Image Flat Water Treatment Plant and its catchment was small and highly sensitive to external activities.
Information for the review of Lakes Cooloolabin and Wappa, including online surveys is available at www.yourseqwater.com.au (http://www.yourseqwater.com.au) (external site). The information session will be held from 8.00am to 12.00pm on 23 November at the Yandina Markets.
A community workshop will follow the information sessions, on Saturday 30 November. To attend the workshop, register at www.yourseqwater.com.au (http://www.yourseqwater.com.au) (external site) prior to Friday 29 November. Registered attendees will be notified via email of the venue location.