Pumicestone Passage action plan extended to 2020

A comprehensive plan to manage the Pumicestone Passage and its catchment for the next three years has been endorsed by Sunshine Coast Council.

Building on the success of the Pumicestone Passage and Catchment Action Plan 2013–2016, the new plan delivers a further 32 wide-ranging actions for the 2017–2020 period.

Among its targets are improving water quality and enhancing the passage’s habitats and biodiversity.

The Pumicestone Passage Catchment Action Plan 2017-2020 has been prepared through a collaborative approach led by officers from the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay councils, and underpinned by the Pumicestone Catchment Network — a group of more than 30 community, industry and government organisations working together to improve the health of the passage and its catchment.

Environment Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay praised the achievements of the Pumicestone Catchment Network and supported the implementation of a new plan to build on the successful catchment management model.

“The Pumicestone Passage is an incredibly important waterway that allows locals and visitors to reconnect with nature,” Cr McKay said.

“Its diverse habitats sustain regional fisheries, marine turtles, dugong and more bird species than Kakadu.

“The catchment is home to the spectacular Glasshouse Mountains, Bribie Island and the Regional Inter-Urban Break.

“It is also home to about 60,000 people and supports regionally significant forestry and farming.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the efforts of all involved in delivering the inaugural action plan for their dedication and willingness to work collaboratively to improve the environmental outcomes for this significant catchment.”

Division 1 Councillor Rick Baberowski also praised the plan and the approach adopted by industry, community, state and local government.

“This plan provides a fantastic example of how people and nature can coexist,” Cr Baberowski said.

“By adopting a holistic approach, we have demonstrated that various stakeholders can work together in a cohesive manner to successfully balance the pressures of development with protection of our precious natural assets.

“Everyone who has been involved in this plan should be incredibly proud of the outcomes they have achieved so far.

“The results of the first plan speak for themselves.”

Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said the collaborative nature of the plan provided a successful model for future catchment management programs.

“We know the actions to date have delivered measurable improvements to the passage, and we applaud the efforts of those involved,” Cr Dwyer said.

“We have managed to balance a wide range of land and water uses, but also appreciate more work needs to be done and we will continue to encourage all members of the community to do their part to protect this important part of the Sunshine Coast.”