The Queensland Government is calling tourism operators, pastoralists, traditional owners, environmental groups and industry representatives to comment on the release of a scoping paper for the proposed bioregion management plan of the Cape York area.

 

“What we have been hearing for some time is that stakeholders are concerned about the number of ‘ad hoc’ programs on Cape York,” State Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said.

 

Minister Powell said he would outline the consultation strategy in greater detail when he visits Cairns next week, but said the bioregion management plan would focus on protection and management of the Cape’s iconic natural areas, while allowing appropriate opportunities for economic development.

 

 

“Specifically, the plan will protect Cape York’s unique environment, allow for appropriate development opportunities, deliver better management of our National Parks and deliver integrated natural resource outcomes for the Cape,” Mr Powell said.

 

The Bioregion Management Plan will replace the Wild Rivers declarations and will be the statutory land use plan for the region, guiding decisions, promoting appropriate development and protecting the Cape’s most important assets.