Five-star rating for Noosa River in annual report card

Noosa Council has welcomed the shire’s results in the 2019 Healthy Land and Water Report Card as it prepares to do more to protect the Noosa River.

The Noosa River catchment held its A- rating, with the river also scoring a five-star economic and social benefit rating.

“The results remind us to not be complacent, to always aim to do more to protect and improve our river’s health so that others can enjoy it for generations to come,” Deputy Mayor Frank Wilkie said.

He said Council was working with the community, industry and State Government to establish a set of agreed new management arrangements.

“We will soon call for feedback on the Draft Noosa River Plan, which will provide the framework to maintain and even improve on the current health of the river,” Cr Wilkie said.

“To achieve effective, whole-of-catchment results, it’s important we collaborate with our residents, business community and State Government.”

CEO of Healthy Land and Water, Julie McLellan, said the health of Noosa’s freshwater creeks and estuaries improved on last year, with the catchment currently in excellent condition.

“It’s good to see Noosa Council is continuing to invest in protecting and enhancing this much-loved community and environmental asset for future generations to enjoy,” she said.

“Based on results from our 2019 community survey, extremely high numbers of residents (88%) are satisfied with their local waterways.

“With 69% of residents recreating in or alongside their local waterway at least weekly, it is clear that Noosa residents love and value their waterways,” she said. 

Healthy Land and Water Monitoring Program is regarded as one of the most comprehensive waterway monitoring programs in Australia.

Healthy Land and Water is an independent organisation dedicated to improving and protecting South East Queensland’s environment.

23 October 2019