Archives for July 2014

Beach staircases set to help stabilise Mackay dunes

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Kite-boarders, walkers and beach-goers can now enjoy eco friendly access to Town Beach, thanks to improved beach planning.

Beach Plans developed in partnership with the community, Reef Catchments and Mackay Regional Council for Town and Far Beaches are being put into action, with the construction of a new staircase at Town Beach.

The staircase was made from recycled materials and is located off Binnington Esplanade, opposite Mulherin Street.

The Town and Far Beach Plans have been developed to ensure the long term sustainability of this 4.5 kilometre stretch of coastline, which is a highly popular destination for Mackay beach-goers.

Controlled burn reduces wildfire risk and helps restore natural balance

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The success of a major controlled burn in North Queensland has helped demonstrate the value of fire as an important tool for both conservation and hazard-reduction.

On Wednesday 9 July, a controlled burn was undertaken on part of the Burdekin Shire Council reserve on the corner of Brown and Barratta Roads.

Consultation with a number of landowners, fire wardens and volunteer rural fire brigade officers had identified the Council Reserve had not been burnt for many years and had a high fuel load.

The preventative management strategy was a collaboration between local fire brigades and landowners, WetlandCare Australia, Reef Catchments Solutions and the local Burdekin Shire Council, who provided machinery and staff support.

The burn was organised by Merv Pyott, Wetland Care Australia’s senior project manager, with expert advice from Reef Catchments Solutions’ Andrew Houley who has worked in controlled fire management for more than 25 years.

The fire was a high priority element of the Building Biodiversity Dividends for the Barratta Creek Catchment project, funded by the Australian Government.