Community feedback is wanted on a draft master plan for the Port of Hay Point.
The blueprint sets out the sustainable development of the port until 2050 and how social, cultural and environmental values will be protected, including the Great Barrier Reef and nesting turtles.
The consultation process has now been extended until mid January to allow more time for community groups and residents to have a say online.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert says she advocated to have local turtle information verified with the Department of Environment and Science.
“I heard what local groups, including the Mackay and District Turtle Watch, had to say on the importance of the North Wall Beach area and pushed for their valuable data to be supplied to the Department of Environment and Science,” she says.
“This data has now been verified, which means the turtle nesting and tracking information provided will be front and centre in this ongoing planning.
“I’m please to also announce that public consultation will be extended until mid-January to allow more time for community groups to have their say.
“It’s only with the communities help that we can truly understand the significance of our local areas, and deliver the best outcome for everyone.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey says he is thankful for Ms Gilbert’s work.
“I want to thank Julieanne for meeting with local groups, and understanding how we can best incorporate the significance of the North Wall Beach into our planning process,” he says.
“The draft master plan and the draft port overlay will be updated to reflect all new information supplied by the public after the submission period closes.
“What I want to see is our final plans being well-informed and back by local residents as the users of these areas.
“I encourage those interested to continue to make submissions online, and directly to the project team.”
The final master plan will take into account submissions and will set out the vision for the area until 2050.
