Funding Propels Livingstone Shire's Reef Protection Efforts
Livingstone Shire Council is proud to share the news of its successful bid for three grants under the Reef Guardian Council Grants Program, securing a total of over $900,000 from the Australian Government, for projects aimed at enhancing the protection and resilience of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Australian Government has unveiled a $17.48 million allocation for council-led projects aimed at bolstering the protection and resilience of the Great Barrier Reef, with nineteen councils in Reef catchments across Queensland set to implement a variety of shovel-ready initiatives under the Reef Guardian Councils program.
Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, said protecting and restoring the Great Barrier Reef requires all levels of government and communities to work together.
“This funding will support local governments across Queensland to do fantastic projects like controlling feral pigs, reducing sediment run-off, restoring habitat, removing marine debris and clean energy upgrades.”
Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, Senator Nita Green, said Reef Guardian Councils, whether they are big or small, play an important role in addressing climate change and improving the health of our Great Barrier Reef.
“I’m proud to support our Reef Guardian Councils to deliver local, practical projects right along the coast and in our Reef catchments that will make a real difference to their communities, while also contribute to improving the health of the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world.”
Deputy Mayor, Councillor Pat Eastwood, expressed his gratitude for the funding, which will support Council’s commitment to implementing the actions outlined in Council’s Reef Guardian Action Plan.
“The projects funded by the grants will focus on habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and climate change mitigation," Cr Eastwood said.
Council will undertake initiatives aimed at rehabilitating native plant communities to enhance water quality and biodiversity. Furthermore, we will see the installation of sustainable, off-grid solar-powered facilities, including streetlights and BBQs, emphasising our commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
“These initiatives will provide immediate environmental benefits and enhance local community stewardship and engagement in activities aimed at safeguarding the Reef, including collaboration with the Darumbal people, the traditional custodians of the land,” Cr Eastwood said.
“We are grateful for the support of the Australian Government and look forward to seeing the positive impact of these initiatives."
As part of these funded projects, Council will conduct community consultation to ensure local input and engagement, further strengthening our collaborative efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
For more information on Livingstone Shire Council's Reef Guardian Action Plan and the funded projects, please visit https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/reef.