The Keppel and Fitzroy Delta Alliance (KAFDA) calls for an immediate moratorium on all port development in Fitzroy Delta and Keppel Bay after the release of a new video revealing the dangers of barge to ship coal loading, known as transhipping, proposed for the exposed waters of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.
KAFDA spokesperson, Ms Ginny Gerlach said: “ GetUp’s video graphically emphasises the risks to community, environment and the Reef of the Mitchell Group’s Fitzroy Terminal Project.”
KAFDA is a local community alliance of recreational fishing and boating groups, commercial fishers, tourism operators, conservation groups, small business operators and concerned residents.
“We have surveyed our community and 92% of people are already extremely concern about this proposal. These disturbing images of children playing on coal covered beaches show what our future would be if this goes ahead ,” Ms Gerlach said
“ Any new port construction in the Fitzroy delta will breach the UNESCO recommendations and have long term irreversible impacts on this crucial habitat increasing the possibility of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area being listed as “in danger “,” Ms Gerlach said.
“All Australians need to carefully look at the video released by GetUp today and express their concerns to the Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt in the strongest terms ,” she said.
“With the Queensland government’s draft Port Strategy allowing for this risky experimental port proposal to proceed it is now time for Minister Hunt to urgently step in and protect this area permanently,” Ms Gerlach said.
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Press Release, November 6, 2013