QUEENSLAND’S independent Co-ordinator General has approved the Environmental Impact Statement for the Lower Fitzroy River Infrastructure project.
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the Co-ordinator General’s evaluation report, released today, included a comprehensive set of stringent conditions to protect water quality flowing into the Great Barrier Reef, animal habitats and endangered flora.
In the EIS (section 5.1.2), it was stated that changes to the visual landscape and use of the area were negligible.
“They would be viewed by a limited number of residents, farm workers and road users with shortterm viewing periods,” the report stated.
“The project was assessed in the EIS as having negligible visual impacts and no mitigation measures are proposed.
“The EIS found that no homesteads would be impacted by light pollution at Rookwood Weir.
“However, unmitigated lighting during construction could potentially disrupt nocturnal fauna behaviour and impact one homestead near Eden Bann Weir.”
Dr Lynham said the conditions would protect habitat for the red goshawk, powerful owl, Fitzroy River Turtle and white-throated snapping turtle.
“The approval also includes important protections for endangered black ironbark trees and threatened brigalow ecological community as well as ensuring vegetation connectivity around the weirs,” Dr Lynham said.
Member for Rockhampton Bill Byrne said that there was also progress with preparation of the Lower Fitzroy River Infrastructure Project Business Case, being led by Building Queensland, which involves detailed economic assessment.
“Multiple options have been assessed, including the construction of the new Rookwood Weir and the raising of the existing Eden Bann Weir,” Mr Byrne said.
“The Steering Committee has considered Building Queensland’s assessment and confirmed further detailed analysis will now concentrate on Rookwood Weir.
“Building Queensland is continuing its detailed and thorough assessment of the business case for Rookwood weir on behalf of the Queensland Government and the project proponents Gladstone Area Water Board and SunWater.
“Ultimately, the business case will ascertain the best way to achieve the optimal water supply solution for the region and careful consideration is prudent given the financial contribution that may be required from both the Federal and State governments.
“The point of these studies is to determine the feasibility of proposed future water infrastructure projects, whether they stack up economically and environmentally.”
The report will now go to the Commonwealth Minister for Environment and Energy for approval for approval.
Kelly Butterworth
Rockhampton-based journalist covering all things ag.
Rockhampton-based journalist covering all things ag.
