The new Mackay Port Access road would be devastating for our local mangroves and nature.
If this new 9.5km road goes ahead it would clear 20ha of precious mangroves in Vines Creek, declared fish habitat area, plus destroy habitat of the threatened native water mouse, the flying fox colony area behind the Mackay Christian College and displace species that depend on mangroves like crabs, fish, waterbirds and crustaceans.
1. Destruction of mangroves
Mackay's mangroves are the last mangroves of the Qld tropics - meaning that mangroves & plants and animals that rely on them have nowhere to go but north ...
The new Mackay Port Access road would be devastating for our local mangroves and nature.
If this new 9.5km road goes ahead it would clear 20ha of precious mangroves in Vines Creek, declared fish habitat area, plus destroy habitat of the threatened native water mouse, the flying fox colony area behind the Mackay Christian College and displace species that depend on mangroves like crabs, fish, waterbirds and crustaceans.
1. Destruction of mangroves
Mackay's mangroves are the last mangroves of the Qld tropics - meaning that mangroves & plants and animals that rely on them have nowhere to go but north, if they are cleared. As climate change makes things hotter, this is a death sentence.
Mangroves are also vital for ecosystems, some local fish breeding cycles and protection from storm surges.
2. Revoking 20ha of Declared Fish Habitat Area (FHA)
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will revoke a FHA, but say they will "add" in 40ha. This extra habitat already exists and working as a fish habitat, so this won't actually "add" anything - only on paper. This area should also be protected.
3. A waste of taxpayers money
The road was first costed at $350 million of taxpayers money, split between the QLD state (20%) and federal governments (80%). It is now reported that the cost has blown out to $1.49 billion. In a cost of living and climate crisis, there are far better ways to be spending our taxpayers money on.
Send an email today to the new Federal Environment Minister, the Hon. Murray Watt. Your own words are more powerful!
We'll also link in QLD State Ministers:
1. Use polite and respectful language
2. Say why you oppose this road
3. Say what you would like to happen (e.g. road is cancelled, and mangroves protected from development)