CURTIS Island off the coast of Gladstone is the hub of the LNG industry, but now its southern part will be protected with funding from gas companies. The state government has set aside 2900 hectares of a former grazing property on the island’s southern end as a protected area. QGC, Santos GLNG, Australia Pacific LNG and Arrow Energy have contributed $34.5 million to set up, preserve and manage the area as part of the approvals process for their LNG projects. The move will add about 1912 hectares to the existing Curtis Island National Park and about 1000 hectares to Curtis Island Conservation Park, increasing the protected area to more than 17,100 hectares. “The declaration of this protected area represents a win-win for both the public and environment, as it adds significant portions of high conservation value land for the community to enjoy,” said Environment Minister Andrew Powell. National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said in addition the LNG proponents were committed to funding the management of these protected areas for the next 25 years. “This arrangement allows Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) to oversee management of the new protected area, recognising their expertise in land management,” Mr Dickson said. The public will now have access to a previously closed track network and enhanced conservation management and recreation opportunities will be established, all funded by the private sector. “QPWS has upgraded some of the property’s existing infrastructure and roads to improve public access in line with the Newman government election commitment to improve access to protected areas,” he said. “The department will also focus its conservation and pest control programs on the island to protect the vulnerable nesting flatback turtle population and Yellow Chat bird. “The additions to the protected area estate, plus the existing national park, conservation park and state forest, will see more than 30,000 hectares of Curtis Island preserved and managed by QPWS for the community to enjoy.” QGC’s operations director Walter Simpson, speaking on behalf of the LNG companies, said that the new protected area represented an important contribution by the gas industry to the environment around Gladstone. “The new protected area is the result of close collaboration between the industry, government and the community including traditional owners,” Mr Simpson said. “While each of the LNG plants occupies just 1 per cent of the island, we are proud to be able to make a financial contribution that will provide enduring environmental benefits.” A reference group including industry, community groups and traditional owners advises government on management of the area, with implementation by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. STORY - COURTESY - SHIFT MINER
Posted on: Wed, 04 Sep 2013 07:52:59 +0000
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