Meeting papers

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING                                          11 JULY 2023




Finance
The estimated cost of implementing a Burgess Creek Integrated Catchment Management Plan
is expected to be around $400,000. Council has commenced exploring cost sharing
opportunities with Unitywater and any other initiatives arising from the Water Matters
consultation process. Staff will also continue to seek other external grant funds.

The 2024/25 Council Budget outlook indicates $266,800 has been allocated to Burgess Creek
for surveys to inform a Catchment Action Plan. Staff resources to project manage will be required
if the project commences in 2024/25 or earlier.

The research collaboration with UniSC will cost an estimated $15,000, with significant in-kind
support provided by UniSC.

Consideration must also be given to the cost and resources needed for the development of a
citizen science water quality monitoring program, if and when this occurs.

Risk & Opportunities
There is an opportunity for Council to continue working with Unitywater to improve community
understanding of the catchment condition.

The partnership aligns with Noosa Council’s Waterways, Wetlands and Coasts strategies within
the Environment Strategy 2019:
   •   Maintain and improve the health of waterways, wetlands & catchments.
   •   Protect and enhance coastal environments and vegetated buffers to coastal foreshores.
   •   Waterways and coasts are managed to protect environmental values while enabling
       sustainable public access, recreation and commercial use.

The formation of a working group between Council and Unitywater has provided a valuable
opportunity for the organisations to develop a successful working relationship and quality
outcomes for the Burgess Creek environment and community.

Promotion of citizen science involvement in the Integrated Water Quality Monitoring Program
will build understanding of water quality issues across Noosa Shire and increase community
trust in Council.

Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
As outlined above, Noosa Council has been liaising with Unitywater regarding Burgess Creek
and the Water Matters Project Steering Group, Noosa’s NRM groups, DES, Healthy Land &
Water, The Nature Conservancy and UniSC.


Internal Consultation
Internal consultation is ongoing between the Environment & Sustainable Development and
Infrastructure divisions.



                                                                                         Page 210 of 310