Have your say on Burdekin coastal hazard adaption strategy

Burdekin Shire Council is encouraging residents to have their input on a key document which will identify risks and develop management options to battle the impacts of climate change.

The Coastal Hazard Adaption Strategy (CHAS), which is being known locally as the Our Coast – Our Lifestyle program, will identify a range of short and long-term actions to avoid, mitigate and manage the impacts of coastal hazards such as cyclones, erosion or inundation due to sea-level rise.

Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the strategy was an important one for the district.

“It’s no secret that Burdekin Shire residents love our waterways and coastline. Our Shire boasts many coastal townships and has one of the highest boats-per-capita rates in Australia,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“However, like all coasts, the Burdekin Shire is vulnerable to coastal hazards.

“The Our Coast – Our Lifestyle program and the associated strategy will focus on seeking to better understand and document our communities’ coastal values and the current and future coastal risks.

Cr McLaughlin said residents were encouraged to have their say on the strategy by speaking with Council’s project team at upcoming events.

“Our current focus is on listening to the community, understanding key issues, gaining local knowledge on key values and the history of the coastline, and considering innovative management approaches.

“Our project team will be out and about over the coming weeks, eager to speak with residents and hear their input. We will also have a wave simulation tank available, which will show how waves work and how structures such as mangroves and sand dunes can impact on coastal hazards.”

Community consultations

Interested residents can complete the community values survey at https://burdekincoast.engagementhub.com.au/, as well as register to receive regular progress updates and notifications of public events.

The strategy is expected to take approximately 12 months to develop.

The Our Coast – Our Lifestyle program is jointly funded by the Queensland Government and Local Government Association of Queensland through the QCoast2100 Program.