South Burnett Ag Network: Reef Protection Regulations

Reef regulations info sessions planned for North and South Burnett

BIEDO is hosting the Office of the Great Barrier Reef (OGBR) as they conduct consultation sessions across the Burnett Inland regarding Reef protection regulations, which are being strengthened to address land-based sources of water pollution flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.

The consultation sessions will be small round table meetings with local industry and grower representatives.

The OGBR team will provide an overview of the draft standard conditions and general information regarding the application process for an environmental authority, including the proposed information requirements for a site-specific application.

BIEDO will host two of these events:

• South Burnett – Kingaroy Town Hall, Tuesday 9 Feb @ 6:30pm
• North Burnett – Monto Town Hall, Thursday 11 Feb @ 6:30pm

OGBR will also provide the option to participate via teleconference and video conference.

Written submissions on the proposed standard are due by Wednesday, 17 February 2021. More information is available at www.qld.gov.au/ReefRegulations

All rural landholders, irrespective of industry, are encouraged to attend to hear what these standards mean for them.

Please register your attendance to assist with catering and COVID-19 restrictions @ www.biedo.org.au/events

During 2020, the LNP Opposition fought against the implementation of Reef Regulations that will affect every landholder in in a Reef Catchment area. For those in the Nanango Electorate, this means landholders in the South Burnett and Gympie Regional Council areas.

If you are a landholder in these areas, I would encourage you to attend a special meeting of the South Burnett Ag Network:

Tuesday 9th February in Kingaroy (click here for details)

Information about the Reef Regulations will be shared. The Labor Government will close submissions on the draft ‘Standard Conditions’ for cropping and horticultural activities on 17th February.

These regulations will have a major impact on farming operations in our region. The role of the government should be to work alongside farmers and communities towards environmental outcomes, instead of ramming unworkable laws down their throats. I urge you to consider making a submission letting the Government know how this will impact your business.

Deb Frecklington