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Election candidates should promise Sandy Creek protection - 05/03/09
The Wilderness Society (TWS) today called on all candidates in the electorates of Keppel and Rockhampton to promise the protection of Sandy Creek under Queensland’s groundbreaking Wild Rivers Act 2005.
Glenn Walker, Wild Rivers Campaigner for TWS said: “Sandy Creek is one
the healthiest river systems remaining on the east coast, with no major
dams or large water extraction. This incredibly special natural asset
is cherished by the local community and deserves immediate long-term
protection”.
“All election candidates for the electorates of
Keppel and Rockhampton should publicly declare their position on the
protection of the Sandy Creek so the local community is fully aware of
their commitment to the local environment”.
TWS has been
campaigning for several years to ensure the long-term protection of the
Sandy Creek. Key threats to the Sandy include the construction of a
weir and water extraction primarily for urban water use.
TWS
is campaigning to ensure the protection of important rivers across
Queensland, including the Sandy Creek, Baffle Creek and Noosa River on
the east coast, and the Channel Country Rivers in Western Queensland.
TV ads in support of the campaign will be running in Brisbane and
Cairns from Sunday.
“Healthy rivers are crucial to Queensland’s
environment and economy. Although many of Queensland’s rivers are now
seriously degraded, the Capricorn Coast community is incredibly lucky
to have such a gem like the Sandy still intact”
“Protection
for the Sandy under Queensland’s Wild Rivers Act ensures a balanced,
sensible approach to river management, based on good science and
learning from past mistakes. The legislation also ensures the local
community is fully consulted before final decisions are made.”
concluded Mr Walker
