Council calls for feedback on Draft Noosa River Plan

Council is inviting residents to have a say on the Draft Noosa River Plan.

The Draft Plan proposes a range of actions to protect the prized waterway from the impacts of pollution, climate change and increasing intensification of use.

“The Noosa River system is a much-loved and well utilised natural asset,” Mayor Tony Wellington said. “Previous public forums and discussions have clearly demonstrated just how important the River is to the residents of Noosa. It is therefore appropriate that Council considers how best to manage and care for the river, including its lakes and catchment.”

Transferring anchoring, mooring and live-aboard management from State to Council control is one key focus of the Draft Plan.

“The array of State agencies currently responsible for managing the River all take a State-wide or one-size-fits-all approach,” says Mayor Tony Wellington. “But what we arguably need is tailored management of the Noosa River and its catchment. We need an approach that delivers targeted responses to the specific pressures our river faces. That can best come from Council, because we are here, seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year.

“The Noosa River’s lower reaches represent one of the busiest and most popular waterways in south east Queensland. As a result, the poor river is under increasing pressure.

“The Draft Plan includes possible actions such as establishing a Council River Management Unit. This would allow Council officers to educate river users about marine zones and migratory bird habitats. The unit could also monitor unauthorised structures such as jetties and pontoons,” the Mayor said.

“Other activities could include working closely with rural landholders and business operators to help reduce polluted run-off from rural and urban areas.

“However, all of these additional Council actions come at a cost, which is why Council is keen to hear the community’s thoughts on the suggestions raised in the Draft Plan. To what extent are residents prepared to pay for improved river monitoring and actions?”

Council’s Environment and Sustainable Development Director, Kim Rawlings, says the Draft Plan takes a catchment-wide approach to protecting not only the river but creeks, wetlands, lakes, and groundwater.

“It focuses on both land-based and on-river activities that together have implications for water quality, aquatic life and ecosystem health,” Ms Rawlings said.

“The Draft Plan incorporates the Noosa River Community Jury recommendations as well as new actions and emerging issues,” she said.

To view the Draft Noosa River Plan, comment and help Council prioritise actions, visit Council's YourSay Noosa website or pop into Noosaville or Cooroy libraries or Council’s administration building at 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin. Consultation closes on August 24.

20 July 2018