The Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) has welcomed funding from the Queensland Government to investigate soil heath and stability issues within the Moneys Creek catchment at Bargara.
The funding is part of the State Government’s Natural Resource Investment Program, aimed at improving and repairing Queensland’s waterways, Great Barrier Reef, soil and plant life.
BMRG Chief Executive Officer Sheila Charlesworth said the Moneys Creek Catchment, east of the Sloping Hummock at Bargara, is one of the region’s most productive and valuable agricultural areas.
“The historical decline in soil health and stability within Moneys Creek Catchment and associated water quality issues in the catchment’s receiving waters, have caused longstanding issues for the local community,” Ms Charlesworth said.
“The Queensland Government’s investment in this study is welcomed by all sectors of the community, and our group is looking forward to advancing this important initiative in collaboration with stakeholders.”
The aim of the study is to determine the feasibility of various land and water management options within the catchment.
Study to deliver outcomes for Moneys Creek
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the announcement of money for Moneys Creek was fantastic news.
“It’s magnificent to have BMRG leading the way for a solution going forward to many issues that have been dealt with over Moneys Creek for many decades,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“There has been other studies over many years but there’s never been, at the end of that type of report, a direction to actual outcomes that need to be delivered.
“BMRG, with the funding here from the State Government, will then give direction to the next load of infrastructure that needs to be implemented, not just at Moneys Creek, but around Moneys Creek, that affects the reef.
“We look forward to, once this initial work has been completed, to then being able to receive funding from both the State and Federal Government to be able to have the long term solution for all stakeholders involved.”
In announcing the funding, Natural Resource Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said Moneys Creek soil health and stability would be one of three projects funded under the $437,500 grant awarded to BMRG.
“The work BMRG is undertaking is vital to protecting this valuable part of our greater ecosystem, agriculture industry and tourism,” Mr Lynham said.
Once the study is completed, BMRG will work with project steering committee members including regional technical experts, Bundaberg Regional Council, Bargara Golf Club and landowners to secure additional funding to implement the study’s recommendations for improving the health and stability of this precious regional resource.
