The Burdekin Dry Tropics Natural Resource Management (NRM) Plan was officially launched on 26th August. It is the only one of its kind in the region and forms the blueprint for how the community can work together to protect and sustainably manage our natural resources for the next 10 years. Read the Burdekin Dry Tropics NRM Plan here.

NQCC was a member of the community Governance Group, represented by Wendy Tubman.

The NRM Plan should be a guiding document for planners and policy makers when determining the future of our region. This week also heard the State Government announce preparations for the North Queensland Regional Plan. This plan will represent the five local council areas of Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchenbrook, Palm Island and Townsville. All other regions in Queensland have a Regional Plan (see other plans here) that statutorily stipulates planning zones such as strategic environmental areas, priority living areas, strategic cropping areas and priority agricultural areas. NQCC will be certain to advocate for ecologically sustainable development during the consultation process for the NQ Regional Plan.

Of particular merit are the goals about climate change. ‘Reduced dependency on fitite natural resources and transition to renewable resources for electricity production, fuel and other non-renewable products’ (page 36) is a regional goal guiding the strategic direction. The great potential our region has to become solar powered is recognised, as well as exploring options for carbon capture projects.

If you would like to know more about the Burdekin Dry Tropics NRM Plan you can download the PDF or contact the NQCC office to arrange a loan of our hardcopy version. NQ Dry Tropics welcomes and encourages ongoing feedback on the Burdekin Dry Tropics NRM Plan. You are welcome to provide feedback via an email to [email protected] or phone them on (07) 4724 3544.