Minister: Major Funding Boost for Queensland Flood Recovery (Australia)

Major Funding Boost for Queensland Flood Recovery

Far North Queensland communities hit by flooding as a result of Cyclone Yasi will receive $479,000 in funding for local river improvement projects.

Natural Resources and Mines Minister Andrew Cripps today said the Herbert, Cassowary Coast and Cairns River Improvement Trusts were looking forward to being able to repair seven rivers and creeks in the region.

A number of watercourses which were significantly impacted by Cyclone Yasi still need work to be done to repair damages,” Mr Cripps said.

The cyclone caused substantial damage to many watercourses, including the destruction of riparian vegetation and the spread of weeds and pests, which has affected waterways and local agricultural activity.

“I asked my department to investigate ways we could put these rivers on the agenda to help with the work that needs to be done.”

Mr Cripps said the seven projects to receive funding would tackle a range of issues across the far north.

“The Herbert River Improvement Trust will receive $137,000 funding for two projects to restore two serious areas of bank slumping on the Herbert River, which left unchecked will continue to destroy significant stands of riparian vegetation,” he said.

“The Trust has also been awarded $132,000 for another two programs to remove debris from the Lannercost and Ripple Creek systems – both cases where agricultural operation and environmental values are currently compromised.

“Cassowary Coast River Improvement Trust will use $80,000 to restore a badly degraded creek and vegetation corridor next to St Clare’s School in Tully, and a further $50,000 to fix significant bank slumping and riparian damage along Jarra Creek.

“Finally, $80,000 has been awarded to the Cairns River Improvement Trust to restore significant bank slumping in the Russell River.

“It is great to see these grassroots organisations getting the support they need so they can get on with protecting and improving rivers in Far North Queensland.”

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Press Release, September 26, 2013