Cook Shire unlocks $920k funding to help protect the Great Barrier Reef

Cook Shire Council welcomes $920,000 in funding from the Australian Government to support critical conservation projects outlined in our Reef Action Plan. As a member of the Reef Guardian Councils, Cook Shire is committed to delivering projects and activities identified in our Reef Action Plan: projects aimed at protecting and preserving the Great Barrier Reef's ecosystems. 

"Living on Cape York Peninsula means living in harmony with the Reef—an unparalleled privilege that comes with a responsibility to safeguard this natural treasure for all, which is why this funding and these projects are so important to our community,” noted Cook Shire Mayor, Cr Robyn Holmes.

The funding supports four innovative projects aimed at mitigating the impacts of land-based activities on the Reef, particularly in regards to soil erosion and sediment runoff, and upgrading critical infrastructure to better manage raw sewage discharge. These projects include:

Sealing of Home Rule Road: Long susceptible to erosion and sediment runoff, particularly during heavy rainfall events, sealing Home Rule Road and implementing advanced drainage structures will significantly reduce the runoff of sediment and pollutants into the Annan and Endeavour Rivers.

Stage 2 of Oaky Creek Herbicide Treatment: Stage 2 of Oaky Creek Road encompasses the continuation of extensive non-mechanical treatments to control invasive plant species. By strategically using these treatments to target invasive vegetation, the aim is to effectively control weed growth without disturbing the structural integrity of the soil, thereby minimising the risk of sediment runoff into nearby watercourses and out to the Great Barrier Reef.

Sediment Reduction Methods at Mt Tully Gravel Pit: Situated in a key catchment area, the My Tully gravel pit has long been a source of sediment runoff, posing a threat to water quality and aquatic habitats in the area. This project includes implementation of effective sediment reduction methods to reduce flow velocities, as well as construction of a sediment basin to capture sediment, allowing it to settle before flowing into waterways.

Cooktown Sewage Treatment Plant Enhancement: The enhancement project encompasses the installation of a new 40,000L retention tank, which will augment the plant's capacity to store and treat wastewater during rainfall events. By increasing the volume of treated wastewater held onsite, the aim is to minimise the risk of overflow, reduce the potential for untreated sewage discharge into nearby water bodies, and out onto the Reef.

Mayor Holmes expressed appreciation for the funding, stating, "This funding represents a solid investment in the protection and preservation of the Great Barrier Reef. Through these projects, Cook Shire Council is taking proactive steps to mitigate the impacts of land-based activities and ensure the long-term health and resilience of our precious marine environment."

Cook Shire Council is a proud Reef Guardian Council – an initiative of the Reef Authority – delivering real outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef.

For more information contact Cook Shire Council via email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au or by phoning 4082 0500.

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