Environmental Concerns Lead to Rejection of $1.4 Billion Queensland Harbour Project
The federal government explained that its decision to likely abolish a $1.4 billion (US$930 million) harbour project in Queensland was made after careful consideration of the project’s environmental impacts and consultation with relevant stakeholders.
The project, spearheaded by the Walker Corporation, aimed to incorporate residential, commercial, retail, and tourism components in a wetland area protected under governmental environmental policies. The development plan involved dredging the wetland and using the sediment for land reclamation over a 15-to-20-year timespan.
However, after assessing the potential outcomes, the government determined that the project would result in irreversible damage, including the removal of 58.7 hectares of wetland and significant impacts on endangered and migratory species like loggerhead and green turtles, eastern curlews, dolphins, and other shorebirds.
As a result, Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek proposed to reject the development of Toondah Harbour near Brisbane, deeming it “unacceptable.” She emphasized the importance of preserving the rare and essential wetlands to prevent the extinction of vulnerable species.
The minister’s decision followed a draft assessment of the project’s impact, which garnered 26,000 public comments. Walker Corporation now has 10 business days to respond to the proposed decision before a final ruling is made.
Walker Corporation’s Response
In response, Walker Corporation expressed respect for Ms. Plibersek’s decision and announced intentions to collaborate with consultants and partners to explore potential strategies to address environmental concerns. The company aims to uphold the highest environmental standards while pursuing the project’s benefits such as housing, job creation, and infrastructure development.
Despite the council’s support for the project, the government’s rejection was met with disappointment from Redland City Council, highlighting the significant economic losses and missed opportunities it would entail for the region.
On the other hand, the Australian Conservation Foundation praised the minister’s decision, hailing it as a significant victory for environmental preservation, citing the potential destruction of vital habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife in the proposed development.
