In a shellebration of conservation, Queensland Transport Minister Mark Bailey has given local turtles a fin-tastic win by expanding the protective boundaries of the Mackay Port to include the North Harbour Wall.
This flipper-friendly decision ensures that Mackay’s turtles will continue to nest and hatch in their coastal haven for generations to come.
Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert, celebrates this decision as a triumph for the local community.
The Port of Mackay, Queensland's fourth largest, plays a pivotal role in servicing the region's mining and agricultural sectors, boasting one of the world's largest bulk sugar terminals.
In October 2022, the State Government began consultation on the master plan for the port, seeking input from the community about how the Port can further drive economic prosperity for central Queensland.
Over the 14 weeks, four community information sessions were held, with over 160 submissions received by the Transport and Main Roads Department.
In response to the community feedback received, the Queensland Government has taken action to protect a Queensland icon, the turtles of Mackay.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said that having travelled extensively in Mackay, speaking with the local member and the community, he heard how important it was to protect the turtles that nest and hatch along the North Harbor Wall of the Mackay Port.
“That is why I have added this area to the Port’s environmental protection zone, which will ensure the Mackay turtles have a safe place to call home for generations to come,” Minister Bailey said.
Assistant Minister for State Development and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said that hundreds of turtles are known to nest and hatch along the North Harbor Wall of the Mackay Port.
“The master planning that is being done is an exciting opportunity for Mackay, bringing with it future development, jobs and prosperity for the Region,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“I am proud to be part of a government that balances the needs of our growing community, while also protecting our beautiful natural environment.
“That is why I welcome the Transport Minister’s decision to protect the Mackay turtles, including the nesting and hatching area in the Mackay Port’s environmental protection zone.”
Minister Bailey said in the coming months he would share future news about the Port of Mackay’s master plan.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert is celebrating the Transport Minister’s decision to include the North Harbour Wall of the Mackay Port in the environmental protection zone of the Port to protect local turtles
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