Global spotlight to shine on local creek conservation efforts

Posted on March 19th, 2014

Although it’s only small, locally important Fig Tree Creek, which runs through the centre of Yeppoon, is about to make its debut on the world stage as part of the Waterwheel World Water Day Symposium 2014.
Fitzroy Basin Association Inc. (FBA) through its FLOW Visitors Centre, Fitzroy River and Coastal Catchments (FRCC) and Capricorn Coast Landcare Group’s Envirolink have been working together since 2009 to clean up the creek and restore its health.
Their efforts have been recognised, and representatives of the three groups will be presenting a live-streamed Internet discussion about the creek, its importance and the restoration project for all the world to see.
FBA Chief Executive Officer Paul Birch said the symposium was a terrific opportunity to put a global spotlight on issues facing delicate ecosystems and environments surrounding urban creeks.
“It may be small, but this little creek plays a big role as it drains into Keppel Bay, which is part of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef,” said Mr Birch.
“As the area has become more urbanised, the impacts on Fig Tree Creek have increased. In 2009, thanks to funding from the Australian Government, Capricorn Coast Landcare Group adopted the creek and began a massive clean-up and restoration program.
“It’s exciting to be showcasing the project on an international stage as part of the Waterwheel World Water Day Symposium this year.”
Mr Birch said the symposium promotes exchange between people who are concerned with water issues – for a better sharing of knowledge, perspectives and governance – through Waterwheel, an online platform dedicated to water.
“More than 200 people across five continents will be sharing their latest work about water, and our project is one of those chosen to be showcased!
“The presentation will be streamed concurrently from FLOW Visitors Centre, FRCC and North Keppel Island at 1.30pm Friday 21 March local time, people interested in joining us for the live event should visit http://water-wheel.net/tap and click on the symposium link at the top of the page to participate – all free of charge.”
For more information on the full program visit http://bit.ly/3WDS14-program and if you haven’t visited FBA’s FLOW Visitors Centre yet pop in between 10am and 4pm Tuesday to Friday or visit www.discovercq.com
Media enquiries: contact Samantha Hansen on 0417 273 695 or email Samantha.hansen@fba.org.au