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2018-07-10 P&E Agenda Attachment 1 to Item 8 - Draft Noosa River Plan
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Planning & Environment Committee
Meeting 10 July 2018
DRAFT
Whole of catchment management
Noosa River protected for future generations
PO Box 141 Tewantin QLD 4565
P (07) 5329 6500 | F (07) 5329 6501
[email protected] | www.noosa.qld.gov.au
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Full text of the other 67 sections
Section 2
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Noosa River Plan
© Noosa Council 2018
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General Enquiries: 8:15 am – 5:00 pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
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By telephone: (07) 5329 6500 (including After Hours emergencies)
By email: [email protected]
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Fax: (07) 5329 6501
Street address: 9 Pelican Street, TEWANTIN
Postal address: PO Box 141, TEWANTIN QLD 4565
www.noosa.qld.gov.au
Acknowledgements
Council wishes to thank all interested stakeholders who have taken the time and energy to help
guide the development of this plan.
Disclaimer
This document has been developed by the Noosa Council’s Environment and Sustainable
Development Department in response to the Noosa River Community Jury recommendations
regarding river management and a review and update of the previous Noosa River Plan (2004)
endorsed by Council in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Information contained in this document is
based on available information at the time of writing. All figures and diagrams are indicative only
and should be referred to as such. This is a strategic document which deals with technical matters
in a summary way only. Council or its officers accept no responsibility for any loss occasioned
to any person acting or refraining from acting in reliance upon any material contained in this
document.
Section 3
Message from the Mayor
The Noosa River begins as a small stream in the northernmost reaches of Cooloola. It then snakes
its way for 60 km through the Great Sandy National Park to end in a wondrous tangle of remarkable
lakes in Noosa Shire.
The Noosa River system is as integral to the Noosa Shire’s charm as are its national parks and
beaches. On any fine Sunday, hundreds of locals and visitors can be found enjoying the grassy
parklands alongside the river next to Gympie Terrace. While children frolic in the shallows, kites,
sea eagles and ospreys hover overhead, hunting for fish. Human fish hunters are also plentiful, with
hopeful anglers casting lines from shore, jetty or boat. Meanwhile, canoeists and stand-up-paddle
boarders slip past; the ferry toots its horn, and motorboats laden with sightseers head upstream to
the river’s Everglades.
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It would be difficult to put a figure on the economic value of the Noosa River, and arguably one
shouldn’t try. Its real worth is better measured in human wellbeing and in safeguarded biodiversity.
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The Noosa River regularly achieves the highest health rating in South-East Queensland. That is in
large part because so much of the river resides in the Cooloola section of the National Park. And for
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that we have environmental activists to thank, particularly those in the Noosa Parks Association and
also the Cooloola Committee. During the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, many battles were fought by
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these groups to stop logging, mining and development in Cooloola.
The success of those lobbyists guarantees that our river has a healthy start in life. It also resonates
with many in today’s community, especially those individuals and organisations who continue to
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focus their efforts on river and catchment health.
But their efforts are no reason for complacency. There are still myriad human influences on the
waterways. Sediment from the Kin Kin catchment, urban run-off from Noosaville and Tewantin, and
the impacts of hundreds of powered boats, all take their toll.
Even back in 2001, a Healthy Waterways publication titled Discover the Waterways of South-East
Queensland asked a pertinent question about the Noosa River: “Will we love it to death?”
Of course we must ensure that we do not wreak further damage on this magnificent natural asset,
and this Plan is part of that undertaking by Noosa Council.
I congratulate the Council staff, community representatives,
residents, business owners and my fellow Councillors on
working together to create this important document.
If the Noosa River is to maintain its enviable health rating,
and even improve its biodiversity, then this Plan is an
essential blueprint for that effort.
Everyone can play a role in protecting and enhancing our
spectacular river system.
Tony Wellington
Noosa Mayor
Section 4
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 The Noosa River today................................................................................................................................ 6
1.2 A system under pressure............................................................................................................................ 7
1.3 Keeping the river healthy............................................................................................................................ 8
1.4 Scope and purpose ...................................................................................................................................... 8
1.5 Vision ............................................................................................................................................................. 8
1.6 Objectives ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.7 Guiding principles.......................................................................................................................................10
2.0 The path to here.........................................................................................................................................11
2.1 Background to river planning...................................................................................................................11
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2.2 Current river management ......................................................................................................................11
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2.3 Community Jury..........................................................................................................................................13
2.4 Catchment overview..................................................................................................................................15
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2.5 Ecosystem health........................................................................................................................................18
3.0 Management themes.................................................................................................................................19
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3.1 Population growth, recreational demand and commercial use of the river .............................. 19
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Section 5
3.1.1 Noosa River Marine Zone.........................................................................................................................19
3.1.2 Anchoring, mooring and living on the river..........................................................................................21
3.1.3 Speed limits and public safety.................................................................................................................24
3.1.4 Marine infrastructure................................................................................................................................25
3.1.5 Commercial use of the river.....................................................................................................................27
3.2 Rural and urban runoff (and other pollution sources) .................................................................... 32
3.2.1 Rural runoff..................................................................................................................................................32
3.2.2 Urban runoff................................................................................................................................................36
3.2.3 Other pollution sources ...........................................................................................................................38
3.3 Climate change......................................................................................................................................... 44
3.4 Engagement with Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Traditional Owners .................................................. 51
3.5 Protection of migratory shorebird habitat ........................................................................................ 52
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3.6 Coastal algal blooms................................................................................................................................ 54
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4.0 Implementation - Action Plan..................................................................................................................56
4.1 Action plan...................................................................................................................................................56
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5.0 References and Bibliography...................................................................................................................65
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Section 6
1.0 Introduction
The Noosa River system is the major waterway of the Noosa Shire. It extends from the Cooloola
section of the Great Sandy National Park at its headwaters, to the river mouth at Laguna Bay.
The river is recognised internationally for its high environmental and scenic values flowing from
the catchment’s rich biodiversity and habitat. It is a much sought after recreational, tourism and
fisheries resource that makes a substantial contribution to the local economy.
Many people have a long-held, deep social connection with the river. This contributes to a strong
sense of place.
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The waterways and wetlands of the catchment form an important part of the local Kabi Kabi
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(Gubbi Gubbi) first nation’s traditional lands with ongoing cultural significance.
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1.1
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The Noosa River
today
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The Noosa River is arguably
South East Queensland’s
only substantially natural
major river system. It
boasts considerable areas
of remnant vegetation
and a wide range of intact
aquatic ecosystems.
Large areas of undisturbed
bushland adjoining the
headwaters of the river are
protected as National Park
or State Forest, and more
than 100 Council-managed
bushland conservation
reserves are located throughout the catchment. This vegetation, and the large proportion of protected
areas, have been a key factor in maintaining the river’s outstanding natural attributes.
The Noosa River wetlands and Lake Weyba are listed as Wetlands of National Importance. This spectacular
and extensive system of freshwater, brackish and saline lakes, marshes, heathlands and estuary is one of
few such complex wetland systems on the eastern Australian seaboard.
The ecological condition or ’health’ of the Noosa River catchment is assessed annually as part of the South
East Queensland Waterways monitoring program. Since 2001 Noosa has received ratings between A
(excellent condition) and B (good condition), consistently the highest in the region.
Page 6 l Noosa River Plan
Section 7
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1.2 A system under pressure
The Noosa River system is a natural asset facing increasing pressure. To ensure the values of the
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river are maintained and improved, these pressures need to be managed effectively. Such pressures
are common to waterways across the region and come under three broad categories:
• Population growth, recreational demand and commercial use of the river.
• Rural and urban runoff.
• Climate change.
More than 54,000 people call Noosa Shire home, however this figure can increase markedly during
peak holiday periods when taking into account overnight visitors and day visitors. This seasonal
influx results in high volumes of boat traffic on the river and high numbers of people using foreshore
areas along the lower reaches of the estuary.
The Noosa River Marine Zones, in place since 2009, regulate some boating-related uses, however
these rules are not well understood or typically observed by the recreational boating public. Across
Queensland, the recreational boating industry has expanded rapidly with one in every 19 people
now owning a boat and/or a Jet Ski. This leads to high demand for marine infrastructure to service
this growth.
The Noosa River offers safe anchorage for cruising yachts, mooring locations for recreational
boating, and opportunities for living on the river. For many years there has been a proliferation
of abandoned and derelict vessels in the river, anchored vessels left unattended for long periods
of time, and swing moorings located in seagrass beds within declared Fish Habitat Areas. These
neglected vessels often occupy prime positions along the river and contribute to congestion, clutter
and safety concerns for other river users. People live on the river without the required approvals
with some on-board occupants discharging waste water into the river.
Commercial use of the river, including commercial fishing, supports livelihoods and tourism in the
region. These industries provide residents and visitors with a host of recreational opportunities and
commercially caught seafood.
Noosa River Plan l Page 7
Section 8
The Noosa estuary is only one part of a diverse suite of waterways and wetlands within the catchment
which play a valuable environmental and economic role in the Shire. On this broader catchment scale,
management actions are required to protect both the quality and quantity of water in the system.
Sediment runoff and other pollution from rural and urban areas affect water quality, aquatic habitats and
aquatic life. Wetlands can be degraded by both urban development and overgrazing. Water is extracted
from freshwater creeks and wetlands in rural areas for irrigation and stock. Water bores throughout the
catchment also provide residents with access to groundwater reserves, whilst town water supplies for
residents in urban areas of the Cooloola Coast are drawn from the upper catchment.
Climate change models predict storms of increased intensity are likely to increase the impact of runoff
and flood events. Further, sea level rise is likely to cause the average level of the estuary to also rise,
threatening wetlands in the upper end of the lakes system. Increased water temperature may place added
pressure on native species, currently at the limit of their distribution, and make conditions more favourable
for some pest animal and plant species to invade waterways and wetlands.
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1.3
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Keeping the river healthy
The actions within this Plan aim to protect the ecosystem health of the entire river system including water
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quality and habitats of native species, and support the recreation, fisheries and cultural values of the
catchment. This balance can be achieved through improved land and water management practices and on-
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ground action, education and regulatory compliance, and better research and monitoring of the river and its
catchment.
Much of this can only be done effectively through a partnership approach, involving local residents,
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community groups, traditional owners, businesses and the relevant government agencies. There will be
new costs involved with an increased local focus on management of the river, especially with the transfer
of management of some State responsibilities to Noosa Council. A stronger local focus on the river will,
however, lead to better management and environmental outcomes in the longer term.
A clean, healthy waterway that is visually appealing and vibrant with aquatic life is central to the wonderful
environment residents enjoy and to the continued success of Noosa’s tourism industry. Sustainable
practices are required by all to ensure the natural values of the river do not deteriorate over time.
The Noosa River Plan (2018) has been prepared to guide this intent.
1.4
Scope and purpose
This River Plan heralds a new era of catchment management in Noosa. It incorporates a whole-of-
catchment approach to management of land-based and on-river activities and applies to Noosa’s freshwater
creeks, wetlands, lakes, the river, coastal creeks and groundwater.
The purpose of the Plan is to protect the ecosystem health of the entire Noosa River system and support
the recreational, fisheries and cultural values of the catchment.
1.5
Vision
The Noosa River system is celebrated as the healthiest river system in South East Queensland
and is managed and protected for future generations.
Page 8 l Noosa River Plan
Section 9
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1.6
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Objectives
1. The recreational boating public understand and observe the Noosa River Marine Zone prohibitions
and restrictions.
2. Anchoring, mooring and living on the river is well managed.
3. Boating speed limits in key areas are appropriate.
4. Marine infrastructure is fit for purpose and does not adversely impact on the environment values or
local amenity.
5. Commercial use of the river maintains the high environmental quality of the river, while meeting the
needs of river users.
6. Commercial and recreational fishing are sustainably managed in the Noosa River.
7. Sediment, nutrients and contaminants moving from rural areas to waterways and wetlands are
reduced.
8. Degraded waterways, wetlands, riparian areas and in-stream habitats are rehabilitated.
9. The quality of water running off urban areas is improved.
10. Sewage collection and treatment facilities are designed and managed to minimise adverse impacts
on water quality (including groundwater) and habitats.
11. Impacts of litter in and around Noosa’s waterways are reduced.
12. Resilience to the impacts of climate change in the Noosa River catchment is enhanced.
13. Aboriginal cultural heritage is protected and Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) led river initiatives are
supported.
14. International agreements for the protection of migratory shorebird habitat are upheld.
15. The occurrence of coastal algal blooms in Laguna Bay is mitigated and/or reduced.
Noosa River Plan l Page 9
Section 10
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1.7
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Guiding principles
An overarching guiding principle of the River Plan is to ensure that the catchment is sustainably
managed as a single ecological, social and economic system. Decisions will therefore seek to maintain
overall productivity of the river on a long-term, sustainable yield basis, whilst enhancing the quality of
the catchment environment. Underpinning this are the following principles–
Council will:
1. Prioritise our management focus on the whole river catchment.
2. Seek partnerships and create opportunities for partner projects involving community, industry
and government.
3. Encourage and facilitate best practices on-land and on-river.
4. Provide education, behaviour change and compliance programs to support residents and
visitors recreating in and around the waterways.
5. Ensure all users of the river, waterways and wetlands contribute to management of the river
and broader catchment.
Page 10 l Noosa River Plan
Section 11
2.0 The path to here
2.1 Background
to river planning
Noosa Council commissioned the
first Noosa River Plan in 1997. It
delivered a comprehensive review
of marine infrastructure and
use patterns, identified various
environmental, recreational and
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fisheries values, and outlined the
factors affecting river use and
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management.
Subsequent planning activities
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undertaken by the Noosa
Integrated Catchment Association
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(NICA), Council, State Government
and industry and community
representatives, focused on ensuring a healthy and productive catchment.
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This process provided a forum for broad community input and discussion from stakeholders across the
catchment. Issues and management actions were identified and prioritised, and a level of funding was
obtained from various sources over the years to help implement some of the actions.
In 2004 an updated River Plan was implemented by Council under a coordinated management framework
with the relevant State Government agencies. The River Plan also received broad community support and
became Noosa Council’s strategic policy position regarding planning, development and management of the
Noosa River system. It delivered:
• A speed limit review and seasonal speed limit restrictions.
• Voluntary Codes of Practice for Noosa’s commercial boatmen, living on board and kite surfers.
• Legislative changes and the introduction of the Noosa River Marine Zones restricting and prohibiting
certain activities.
• Research into water quality issues.
• Rehabilitation of degraded riparian areas and wetlands throughout the catchment.
2.2 Current river management
The management of anchoring, mooring and living on board watercraft in the Noosa River system is
administered by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) through Maritime Safety
Queensland (MSQ). There are several key pieces of legislation which provide the head of power for the
State authorities to manage the:
• Use of nominated waterways.
• Water traffic and associated infrastructure.
• Condition and operation of vessels.
• Ship-sourced pollution.
Noosa River Plan l Page 11
Section 12
These laws include the Transport Infrastructure Act 1994, the Transport Infrastructure (Waterways
Management) Regulation 2012, the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act 1994 and the Transport Operations
(Marine Pollution) Act 1995.
Compliance with these laws and regulations is managed via a system of complaint and information referrals
to other State agencies. These agencies include the TMR Boat Harbours Team, Queensland Boating and
Fisheries Patrol and the Queensland Police Service.
Management of commercial jetty leases in the river is administered by the Department of Natural Resources
and Mines, while management of Queensland’s commercial and recreational fisheries is administered by the
Department of Agricultural and Fisheries (refer Table 1 below).
State agency Referral
TMR Boat Harbours Team Applications for buoy mooring authorities.
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Applications for living on board watercraft
approvals.
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Complaints about anchoring, mooring, grounding,
living on board watercraft, watercraft construction
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and works.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol Complaints about anchoring and mooring.
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Complaints about waste holding systems.
Complaints about non-compliance of the Noosa
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River Marine Zone.
Enforces fisheries and boating safety laws through
surveillance and inspection.
Undertakes related education with industry and
community groups.
Queensland Police Service (Water Police) Enforces boating safety laws through surveillance
and inspection e.g. speed limits, boat licenses,
registrations, complaints about antisocial behaviour
and illegal camping on islands and river foreshores.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Safety administration of Domestic Commercial
on behalf of the Australian Government Vessel s e.g. registration, licencing and compliance
functions from 1 July, 2018.
Department of Natural Resources and Mines Management of commercial jetty leases under the
Land Act 1994 and Land Regulation 2009.
Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Management of commercial and recreational
fisheries in Queensland.
Development and implementation of Queensland’s
Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-20.
Table 1 State government agencies responsible for management of the Noosa River system.
Page 12 l Noosa River Plan
Section 13
In 2014, Noosa Council publicly declared interest in taking on responsibility for the management of
anchoring, mooring, living on the river and commercial jetty leases.
Discussions with the relevant State agencies investigated how these activities could be managed at a local
level as opposed to the current state-wide approach.
Around this time the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries instigated a state-wide review of the
commercial and recreational fisheries, which also afforded Council the opportunity to continue to
advocate for restrictions on the commercial fisheries in Noosa.
Local management of anchoring, mooring, living on the river and the commercial jetty leases now seemed
a viable option for Council; however would the community be supportive of this approach?
2.3
Community Jury
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In 2015, a 24-member Community Jury of local residents and ratepayers was established to provide
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recommendations on the topics:
• How can we manage the Noosa River better?
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• What role should Council play and what resources should Council apply?
The scope of the jury included anchoring, mooring and living on the river, commercial use of the river and
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commercial jetty leases occupying the Noosaville Foreshore.
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Noosa River Plan l Page 13
Section 14
Following their four-month deliberation the majority of the Jury supported the proposition that Council
should take over authority from the State Government for managing anchoring, mooring, living on the river
and commercial use of the river on the basis it would be a user-pays system, funded through alternative
means to rates. It is unlikely however, that a user-pays system will currently generate enough revenue to
cover all the costs of these functions on the Noosa River. This is still a key challenge for Council and the
community. Alternate funding sources will need to be explored if Council is to take on these responsibilities.
The Jury presented Council with 12 recommendations:
1. Review, update and implement the Noosa River Plan in a new framework and ratify with formal
status to ensure it has authority.
2. Undertake effective monitoring and facilitation of waste tank effluent removal and disposal from
vessels.
3. Establish an effective duty of care and policy regarding Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and aboriginal
engagement on all aspects of river management.
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4. Implement a role with authority on the river around compliance and monitoring.
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5. Maintain river catchment protections.
6. Review fees for mooring and anchoring and levy rates for commercial jetties.
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7. Establish a Noosa River Management Coordination Committee to oversee river management.
8. Remove abandoned, unattended, unauthorised, derelict and unsafe vessels to an impound area in
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the river for auction.
9. Review anchoring and mooring locations and types of moorings.
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10. Determine a cap and locations for live on boards.
11. Implement lighting and marker options for boats and beacons for safety reasons.
12. Implement stricter management of acceptable commercial uses of the river and assume control of
commercial leases.
At its Ordinary Meeting on 14 January, 2016 Council resolved to;
A. Thank the Community Jury members for participating in the Community Jury process, for their dedication
and time attending meetings, researching material and finalising their Report and recommendations to Council;
B. Note the Jury recommendation that Noosa Council should take on the responsibility of managing anchoring,
mooring, commercial uses and jetty leases for the Noosa River;
C. Write to the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Department of Natural Resources advising them
of the Jury’s recommendation for Noosa Council to manage on-river and foreshore activities, seeking their
support to establish an acceptable process for both parties to transfer agreed management responsibilities for
the Noosa River to Council; and
D. Agree to utilise both the 12 additional Jury recommendations and the supporting explanations in the
development of a comprehensive River Management Strategy and the associated discussions with State
Government agencies.
A proposal to review and update of the 2004 Noosa River Plan, under a whole-of-catchment management
framework, was endorsed by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 16 January, 2017.
Page 14 l Noosa River Plan
Section 15
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2.4
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Catchment overview
The Noosa River catchment is one of two major river systems located in the Noosa Shire on the Sunshine
Coast. The river system covers 63% of the Noosa Local Government Area (see Figure 1).
The Noosa River flows south from the Cooloola Section of the Great Sandy National Park and is fed by
springs that drain major sand deposits. It is one of the few Queensland Rivers that enjoy a continuous
year-round freshwater inflow.
The rural areas around Kin Kin were originally cleared for timber and are the largest areas of modified
landscape within the catchment. These rural industries, such as dairying, agriculture, horticulture and
quarrying, were the early foundation of Noosa’s economy.
Large parts of the catchment’s freshwaters, groundwater and estuary are designated ‘high ecological
value’ under Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009. The management intent for
these waters is to maintain an effectively unmodified waterway condition.
The Noosa River Wetlands and Lake Weyba constitute a groundwater-fed connected system and provide
discharge to swamps, springs, channels, lakes, the estuary and marine environment. These wetlands
play an important ecological and hydrological role in the natural functioning of a major wetland system
including:
• Groundwater recharge and discharge.
• Flood control through short-term storage of floodwaters.
• Surface water filtration.
• Habitats for animals at a vulnerable stage in their life cycles.
• Refuge for animals during drought.
• Habitat for populations of native plants and animals including threatened species.
Noosa River Plan l Page 15
Section 16
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Figure 1 River catchments in the Noosa Shire.
Page 16 l Noosa River Plan
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fSection 17
The Noosa River is unique among Queensland estuaries in that it transitions from freshwater to hyper-
saline waters in the lakes.
The freshwater lowlands provide habitat for endangered freshwater fish, such as the Honey Blue Eye and
Oxleyan Pygmy perch, while the estuary harbours a wide range of fish, prawns and crabs of commercial
and recreational importance.
The majority of the estuary falls within 6,000ha of declared Fish Habitat Areas (FHA). Queensland’s
FHA networks are protected against physical disturbance from coastal development, while still allowing
legal fishing. Most of Noosa’s FHA are classified ‘management A’, of the highest value, and are vital to
commercial and recreational fisheries of the region.
A F T
D R
The river has the largest riverine seagrass beds in South East Queensland. It also has mangrove forests
featuring all of the Sunshine Coast’s known mangrove species.
In 2005-07, a census of migratory shorebirds revealed the river mouth, sandbanks and adjoining Noosa
North Shore is an area of ‘National and International Importance’ for shorebird conservation in Australia.
A total of 43 species of shorebirds were recorded during this time, including many species protected
under international agreements.
The estuary is a focal point for recreation and visitor activities. It offers safe anchorage for cruising yachts,
mooring locations for recreational boating and opportunities for living on the river. Commercial jetty
operations also provide a diverse array of motorised and non-motorised watercraft for tours, hire and self-
drive.
The Noosa River system forms part of the Noosa Biosphere Reserve ®
which was designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program in
2007 – it was a first for Queensland.
Noosa River Plan l Page 17
Section 18
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2.5
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Ecosystem health
For the past 17 years, Noosa Council has been part of one of Australia’s most comprehensive freshwater,
estuarine and marine monitoring programs delivered by Healthy Land and Water (formerly Healthy
Waterways).
The monitoring program provides a regional health assessment of South East Queensland’s major
catchments, river estuaries and Moreton Bay zones in the form of an annual Report Card grade (A-F).
The program also quantifies, via a 1-5 star rating system, the level of social and economic benefits the
waterways provide to local communities and the people who live there (Healthy Land and Water, 2017).
Since 2001, the health rating for the Noosa River catchment has fluctuated between an A (excellent
condition) and B (good condition). These fluctuations are often linked to rainfall intensity and duration
each assessment year.
Freshwater creeks have better health ratings during a wet year, indicating a positive influence of high
water flows. In contrast, estuaries often have poorer grades in wet years, when significant quantities of
sediment and nutrients are washed down from the upper catchments.
Page 18 l Noosa River Plan
Section 19
3.0 M
anagement
themes
3.1
Population growth, recreational demand and commercial use of the river
The Noosa estuary is a focal point for recreation and visitor activities. During peak periods the lower
estuary is the busiest section of the river. There are approximately 54,000 residents in the Noosa Shire,
however this figure can increase markedly during peak holiday periods. With a growing population comes a
proportional, growing demand for water-based tourism activities.
While the influx of visitors and holiday-makers
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contributes significantly to Noosa’s economy, the
growing levels of recreational boating activity
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and increased demand for infrastructure have
the potential to affect the environmental and Recreational boating census
amenity values of the river and distract from the
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In 2014 the Department of Transport
user’s enjoyment of the waterways.
and Main Roads conducted a recreational
boating census which revealed over a
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quarter of a million recreational vessels
3.1.1 Noosa River Marine Zone
were registered in Queensland.
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Prior to the State’s recreational boating census, This equates to approximately 1 registered
the community was already expressing concerns boat or Jet Ski for every 19 residents.
about the number and type of watercraft using
The census also showed 51% of all
the Noosa River, and the increasing competition
for space between various river users. These recreational boats and 71% of Jet Skis were
concerns led Council to establish the Noosa accommodated by the Brisbane maritime
River Marine Zone to prohibit and restrict certain region which includes the Sunshine Coast
activities in the river. and Gold Coast waterways.
The Marine Zone is a regulation made under The Brisbane maritime region reported the
the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act strongest growth (9.8%) in the number of
and is enforceable by Noosa Council and State Jet Skis on the register.
agencies.
The Noosa River Marine Zone:
• Restricts personal jet skis to transiting
downstream of the Noosa Waters Inlet and out to the open ocean.
• Prohibits personal jet skis on the remainder of the river.
• Allows commercial jet skis to operate within the officially gazetted commercial jet ski area in lower
estuary
• Restricts water skiing to two ski runs in the river, upstream from Tewantin.
• Prohibits hovercraft, airboats, seaplanes, surfing and wave-jumping activities from operating in the
river (refer Figure 2 below).
Ongoing education and monitoring of activities is required to ensure compliance with the Marine Zone
rules.
Noosa River Plan l Page 19
Section 20
Personal watercraft areas (jet skis) Water skiing areas
PWC (jet ski) activity is restricted in this area. PWCs can PWCs are not permitted on the remainder of Water skiing and wakeboarding is only allowed
transit the river channel downstream of the Noosa Waters the Noosa River. in the two water ski runs between Tewantin
inlet to the river mouth and out to open ocean. The marine and Lake Cooroibah, from 8am to 5pm.
zone does not apply to PWC activity in the open ocean. The commercial PWC area will continue to operation.
Water skiing is prohibited on the remainder of
the river.
The boating community is urged to keep clear of migratory seabirds
around the estuary during October to April as they are feeding and
resting prior to flying to the northern hemisphere.
A F T
D R Lake
Cootharaba
Lake
Cooroibah
Lake
Weyba
Prohibited on the Noosa River: hovercraft, airboats, seaplanes, freestyling, surfing and wave jumping
activities, except freestyling by commercial PWCs in the commercial PWC area.
Figure 2 Map of Noosa River Marine Zone - jet ski and water skiing restricted areas
Page 20 l Noosa River Plan
Section 21
Objective 1: The recreational boating public understand and observe the Noosa River Marine Zone
prohibitions and restrictions.
Management response Who When
Implement an on-river education and compliance program to Council Short -
regulate activities within the Noosa River Marine Zone. medium term
Install additional Marine Zone signage on the foreshores to Council Short term
clarify the beginning and end of the MZ.
A F T
3.1.2
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Anchoring, mooring and living on the river
The Noosa estuary offers safe anchorage for cruising yachts, mooring locations for recreational boating,
and opportunities for living on the river. It is a significant natural asset and a significant resource for
recreation and tourism. The River Plan provides opportunity for establishing a well-managed, welcoming
and friendly boating community in the Noosa estuary to support visitors, as well as meet the expectations
of residents.
Anchoring
Over time, some boat owners have abandoned their vessels
in the river, or they leave vessels unattended at anchor, in
some case for many years. This has a negative cumulative
impact on the visual amenity of the river and significantly
contributes to river clutter.
These abandoned vessels mostly occupy the lower estuary,
which is by far the busiest section of the river. They impede
river use by others, especially those navigating the river in
darkness.
Noosa River Plan l Page 21
Section 22
Vessels left unattended at anchor for long periods are also an ongoing concern during very high tides and
strong winds, as they frequently break from their restraints or drag anchors.
There are few legislative restrictions regarding anchoring in the Noosa River. There are no provisions
regarding ‘unattended’ anchoring, and no provisions to control the length of stay. There is currently no fee
associated with anchoring, and the current regulation (Transport Infrastructure- Waterways Management-
Regulation 2012) allows boat owners to leave their vessels unattended at anchor indefinitely.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has restricted legislative powers to deal with abandoned and derelict
vessels. Their policy further limits when and where an investigation may be triggered and when it is acted
upon.
Mooring
There are 112 authorised buoy moorings scattered
throughout the length of the river. This number was
capped in 2010 by the Harbour Master who determined
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the river was at capacity and any additional moorings
would compromise marine safety. New requests for
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moorings are placed on a waiting list.
The issues with moorings in the Noosa River relate to:
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• Their location contributing to river congestion.
• The number of vessels in very poor condition
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and the visual impact of neglected vessels
occupying prime positions along the river.
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• Scouring of seagrass beds from ‘swing’ type
moorings located in declared Fish Habitat Areas Mooring minders
(FHA).
A ‘mooring minder’ is the term colloquially
• Non-compliance with the mooring permit’s given to relatively inexpensive boats
‘conditions of use’. purchased by a mooring authority
permit- holder specifically for the
purpose of reserving the mooring space.
These vessels are often in very poor
condition and are left unattended for
long periods of time. Aside from the
visual impact of neglected vessels, these
can also result in safety concerns and
damage to other vessels and property
if they sink or break free from their
moorings, which are also often poorly
maintained.
As a ‘condition of use’ for a mooring
permit, authorities in some states require
a vessel to be visually suitable for the
area, and be maintained in a seaworthy
condition, which means being capable
of undertaking a voyage.
Page 22 l Noosa River Plan
Section 23
Noosa River Community Jury
The Jury recommended Council take on
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management of anchoring, mooring and
living on the river on the basis it would
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be a ‘user pays’ system funded through
alternative means to rates.
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In addition, detailed operational
recommendations were also provided which
include:
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• Implement a role with authority on the
river around compliance and monitoring. Living on the river
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• Remove abandoned, unattended, The Department of Transport and Main Roads has
unauthorised, derelict and unsafe vessels issued a number of long-term and casual approvals
to an impound area in the river for for people to live on the Noosa River, either
auction. temporarily, intermittently or permanently.
• Review anchoring and mooring locations Vessels used to live on board are either at anchor
and types of moorings. or moored, and there is no fee associated with
• Determine a cap and locations for live on these approvals.
boards. The Transport Infrastructure (Waterways
• Review fees for mooring and anchoring. Management) Regulation outlines the legislative
provisions for living on board. These provisions
• Undertake effective monitoring and restrict vessels being used for living on the
facilitation of waste tank effluent river (whether temporarily, intermittently or
removal and disposal from vessels. permanently) from remaining in the river for more
• Implement lighting and marker options than 48 hours, unless the living on board is in
for boats (and beacons) for safety accordance with the State approval.
reasons. As a ‘condition of use’ the vessel used to live on
board must have the appropriate waste holding
system on board. Occupants must ensure waste
is not discharged to the river, ensure that a fixed
or mobile pump-out facility is used to empty the contents of the waste holding system and keep written
records of each discharge while the vessel remains in the river.
Council regularly receives complaints from the general public and other river users that people discharge
waste to the river. The Noosa River and adjoining lakes is a nil discharge area for treated and untreated
sewage. These provisions are set out in the waterways management and marine pollution legislation.
Noosa River Plan l Page 23
Section 24
Objective 2: Anchoring, mooring and living on the river is well managed.
Management response Who When
The actions below can only be progressed once the State has agreed to a transfer of management
responsibilities to Noosa Council.
Advance discussions with relevant State agencies, informed by the Community Council , Short -
Jury’s recommendation that Noosa Council should take on the responsibility community medium
of managing anchoring, mooring, commercial uses and jetty leases for the Noosa stakeholders, term
River. Subject to the handover of responsibility to Council for these activities, Queensland
pursue:; Government
a) Development of an Anchoring, Mooring and Living on Board
Management Plan to identify how Council intends to manage these
activities.
b) State endorsement of the Plan, and enter into a formalised agreement
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under relevant waterways legislation.
c) A review of anchoring and mooring locations and types of mooring.
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d) Identification of a cap and locations for living on board in the river.
e) Effective monitoring and facilitation of waste tank effluent removal and
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disposal from vessels.
f) Removal of unsafe, abandoned and derelict vessels from the Noosa River.
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The actions below can be progressed without a transfer of management responsibilities to Noosa
Council.
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Investigate legislative amendments to control the ‘length of stay’ for Council Short
anchoring. term
Advocate for improved lighting and marker options for boats (and beacons) Council, Medium
for safety reasons. Queensland term
Government
3.1.3 Speed limits and public safety
The lower Noosa estuary is popular and very busy,
particularly around Munna Point and the Dog Beach
(Noosa Spit). Boats travelling at speed in these areas
have created a public safety risk. Council has also
instigated extensive erosion protection works.
The boat wash produced from vessels travelling at
up to 20 knots around these areas is contributing
to the undermining the integrity of the erosion
protection works in place and increasing the public
safety risk to swimmers.
Council is focused on ensuring recreational boating is conducted in a manner that considers the amenity
and safety of other river users and doesn’t compromise the capital investments made to protect river banks.
A temporary speed restriction of 6 knots was put in place whilst the erosion protection works were
underway, however this restriction was lifted at the completion of the project. A permanent speed
reduction from 20 knots to 6 knots in these specific areas would improve public safety and reduce the boat
wash impact on the erosion protection works in place.
Page 24 l Noosa River Plan
Section 25
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D R
Objective 3: Boating speed limits in key areas are appropriate.
Management response Who When
Review seasonal speed limit restrictions around Munna Point Council, community Short term
and Noosa Spit (Dog Beach) with Maritime Safety Queensland stakeholders,
with a view to making these changes permanent. Queensland
Government
3.1.4
Marine infrastructure
Eight public boat ramp facilities are provided by the State and managed by Council in order to service the
Noosa River boating public. Public boat ramps are funded via recreational boating registrations and are
designed and operated to provide functional, safe and convenient boat access to the river with no net loss
of public access and use of the public foreshore.
In addition, there are 21 public jetty infrastructures and 687 privately owned jetties constructed
throughout the Noosa River system. Jetties are constructed for the primary purpose of providing
functional, safe and convenient access to vessels and additionally for public recreation purposes in the
case of public jetties.
The majority of public jetties in Noosa are owned and managed by Council, and a few older, historic public
jetties are owned and managed by the State. Owners of private jetties are responsible for their jetties’
upkeep with most private jetties attached to freehold land, although in some instances, private jetties are
attached to public lands.
Noosa River Plan l Page 25
Section 26
All jetties require approval from Council under Noosa’s Planning Scheme as well as the State Department
of Environment and Science (DES). Commercial operators may apply to Council to use public boat ramps
and these operators also require approval from the State for owner’s consent.
Commercial water-based businesses are required to operate from an approved commercial jetty. The
use of private jetties for commercial activities is not allowed. This is to ensure that appropriate facilities
are provided for water-based commercial activities (and vessels) which provide due regard to the visual,
environmental and cultural values of the river system.
There are a number of impacts and considerations for Council and the community regarding the use of
boat ramps and jetties which include:
• Use of public boat ramps (including parking) impacting on surrounding streets and residents.
• Commercial operators using public marine facilities without approval.
• Unapproved boat ramps and jetties on public land built by residents and not designed or
maintained to standards.
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• Unapproved boat ramps and jetties on public land and in declared Fish Habitat Areas (FHAs).
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• Potential safety risks to the public accessing unapproved boat ramps and jetties on public lands.
D R A
Objective 4: Marine infrastructure is fit for purpose and does not adversely impact on the environment
values or local amenity.
Management response Who When
Review current management of boat ramps and jetties in collaboration Council Short -
with the relevant State agencies: medium term
a) Develop a comprehensive database of boat ramps and jetties in the
river system.
b) Investigate unauthorised uses and their impacts on environment/
local streets.
Investigate a means of assessing the carrying capacity of the river in Council Medium - long
terms of recreational boating. term
Page 26 l Noosa River Plan
Section 27
Recreational boating facilities demand
In 2016, the Department Transport and Main Roads commissioned a Recreational Boating Facilities Demand
Forecasting Study for Noosa Council’s consideration (GHD, 2016).
This study set out the current and future demand for publicly accessible recreational boating facilities in
the Noosa River for the next 20 years. The assessment considered facilities for vessels such as boat ramps,
floating walkways and landings for deep-draft vessels. It is intended to be used to inform funding priorities
from 2018/19 onwards. During this assessment, issues of overcrowding, capacity and safety were raised by
stakeholders regarding access to recreational boating facilities (GHD, 2016).
The study suggests Noosa will soon need a total of 10 boat ramp lanes. Currently there are 7 ‘effective’
lanes. Notably, the forecasting demand modelling does not consider the extent to which private jetties in
Noosa service the recreational boating access needs. As a result, areas like Noosa with numerous waterfront
residences have been assessed the same as those with none.
Council is more likely to support, subject to capacity and design considerations, upgrades to existing
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facilities as this is more aligned to Council’s approach to
managing the foreshore and open spaces. Council does not
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support the building of new boat ramps in the Noosa Shire.
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3.1.5
Commercial use of the river
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Jetty leases
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There are 14 State commercial jetty leases established
along the Noosa River between Tewantin’s Memorial Park
to the west and the Sofitel Resort (Noosa Parade) to the
east – see Figure 3 below.
Figure 3 Commercial jetty leases along the Noosa River foreshores.
Noosa River Plan l Page 27
Section 28
The leases are predominantly over water (i.e. beyond the high water mark) but most include a portion of
foreshore land.
The Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy (DNRME) issues the leases and is responsible
for their management under the Land Act 1994. Council cannot be authorised under the Land Act to take
on management of these leases, however it is responsible for management of development within the
lease and management of the public foreshores.
This shared responsibility creates a challenging management model for all levels of government.
The Noosaville foreshore, where the majority of leases are located, is one of the most popular recreational
areas in the Shire. It now accommodates significant competing recreational and commercial demands,
particularly during peak holiday times.
Council receives regular complaints about the commercial leases. A number of these complaints are from
jetty operators themselves seeking a level playing field, whilst others are from the general public. Most
complaints relate to:
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• Subletting of commercial businesses which do not have a marine facility purpose.
• Commercial signage and hire watercraft occupying the public foreshores.
F
• Changes to commercial fleets (e.g. boat types and size).
Several years ago most leases were renewed for 30 years. New lease conditions decreased the specificity
A
of previous conditions however standard lease conditions still require:
• Use of the lease for marine facility purposes only.
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• Compliance with State and Local Government laws.
• Lessees to obtain necessary approvals for structures.
D
• Development and use of the land to be consistent with the Planning Scheme and requirements of
Council.
Noosaville Foreshore Land Use Master Plan
In response to increasing demands for recreational, community and commercial use of the foreshore,
Council, in consultation with the community and DNRME, has developed a Noosaville Foreshore Land
Use Master Plan to inform future decisions regarding use of the Noosaville foreshore in particular.
Page 28 l Noosa River Plan
Section 29
Guidelines for the establishment of new businesses on the Noosa River
Council receives numerous enquiries for proposed new businesses on the Noosa River. Individually these
applications have merit, however when considered together, the sheer number of potential uses would
seriously impact upon safety, amenity and clutter on the river.
In 2006, Council created Guidelines for the Establishment of New Businesses on the Noosa River. These
guidelines have been effective in managing inappropriate uses on the river and cover the following topics:
• Jetty operation base required - Commercial water-based businesses are required to operate from
an approved commercial jetty. Use of private jetties for commercial activity and the operation of a
commercial business (including Air BNB) from anchor or an authorised buoy mooring in the river are
not permitted.
• Floating shops - Council does not support establishment of a new floating shop permanently
attached to a jetty and used for commercial purposes.
• Use of boat ramps - The regular launching of commercial hire craft such as jet skis, boats, canoes, tour
T
vessels etc. is not permitted from public boat ramps without approval. Boat ramps are owned by the
State and intended to provide for private recreational vessels. Noosa Council supervises the operation
F
of the boat ramps on behalf of the State.
• Use of public jetties. Public jetties are provided for use by private vessel owners and are not
A
authorised for commercial activity. A new business relying on use of a public jetty will not be
approved.
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• Sale of food from vessels. The sale of food from a vessel to customers on the banks of the Noosa River
is not permitted. Food may only be sold to customers on board or to occupants of another vessel.
D
Objective 5: Commercial use of the river maintains the high environmental quality of the river,
while meeting the needs of river users.
Management response Who When
Support the implementation of the Noosaville Foreshore Land Use Council Ongoing
Master Plan.
Review and update Council’s Guidelines for the Establishment of New Council Medium term
Businesses on the Noosa River.
Investigate a statutory means of managing the size and type of Council Medium term
commercial fleets operating in the river.
Commercial fisheries
Sustainability of the Noosa River’s commercial, recreational and indigenous fisheries is of great interest to
the community.
Noosa Council supports protection of the 6,000 hectares of declared Fish Habitat Areas throughout the
river system due to their importance to the sustainability of the fisheries in this region.
Fisheries review and reform
In Queensland, commercial and recreational fisheries are managed by the Department of Agriculture and
Fisheries (DAF), which commenced an independent review of fisheries management in 2014.
Noosa River Plan l Page 29
Section 30
Council made a submission to this review highlighting concerns about commercial and recreational fishing
on Noosa North Shore (NNS) and requested the State to:
• Review the compatibility of commercial fishing uses and other recreational uses on the NNS.
• Close the NNS to commercial fishing by establishing a recreational fishing haven to exclude
commercial fishing.
• Consider introducing recreational fishing permits.
• Consider buying back those commercial fishery licenses operating from the NNS and not re-issuing
any existing licences due for expiry.
• Consider how Council could partner with the State to ensure smooth implementation of these
recommendations.
In 2016, as a next step in the fisheries management review process, the State produced a Green Paper on
Fisheries Management Reform in Queensland and again called for public comment.
This was a major step in development of a strategic policy to guide the management of Queensland’s
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fisheries resources into the future. The Green Paper articulated a vision for the management of wild harvest
fisheries and the proposed reforms required.
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The State recognised that reforms and any new legislation may take a number of years to be completed.
Council welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback to the Green Paper at its Ordinary Meeting on the
A
15 September, 2016.
Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027
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A Sustainable Fisheries Strategy, which takes into account the public feedback on the Green Paper, has been
developed by the State. More than 11,000 submissions were assessed during this significant consultation
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exercise dating back to 2014.
The overwhelming message received during consultation was that all
stakeholders wanted reform in the way the State manages fisheries. This
included strong support from all sectors for better fishery monitoring, more
effective engagement, more responsive decision-making and greater fisheries
compliance with regulations (State of Queensland, 2017).
The Strategy sets out the reform agenda for the next 10 years with a
commitment from the Queensland Government of more than $20 million
over the next three years to kick start implementation to support the reforms
(State of Queensland, 2017).
Partnerships and projects
Council, in partnership with the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation, Noosa
Parks Association, the Thomas Foundation and the Nature Conservancy,
commissioned a number of fisheries-related studies that provide relevant
science-based research about the Noosa River fisheries and management
options for the restoration of aquatic habitats to improve these fisheries.
These studies include:
• History of Aquatic Restoration and Management Options
for Noosa Estuary and Lakes 2014
• Restoration of Noosa Estuary – An Assessment of Oyster
Recruitment 2014
• Historical Ecology of the Noosa Estuary Fisheries 2015.
This research was the catalyst for the Partner Project - Bring Back the Fish.
Page 30 l Noosa River Plan
Section 31
A F T
D R
Bring Back the Fish
This project consists of three elements:
1. An assessment, undertaken by the University of Queensland, of current baseline environment conditions
against which the success of restoration efforts can be measured. It includes assessing the links
between school prawns and the prevailing environmental conditions, a current full stock assessment
and recommendations for enhancing or restocking prawns in the Noosa lakes and estuary.
2. Direct restoration of lost oyster reef habitat in the Noosa estuary, undertaken by the University of
the Sunshine Coast. It includes construction of artificial reefs and monitoring of results; and improved
understanding of how the restored oyster reefs secure fish diversity, biomass and connectivity in the
system.
3. A parallel project involved an assessment, undertaken by Noosa and District Landcare and Healthy Land
and Water, of erosion prone areas in the Kin Kin Creek sub catchment to determine current sediment
inputs to waterways. It identifies priority areas for riparian restoration. The objective of this work is to
reduce the overall sediment load in the system that currently hinders the growth of oyster reefs and
seagrass beds, which provide habitat for fish and prawns.
The long term outcome sought by Bring Back the Fish is a considered balance between marine biodiversity
recovery and sustainable recreational and commercial fishing.
The project is led by the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation with financial support from Noosa Parks
Association, Noosa Council, Thomas Foundation, the University of the Sunshine Coast, Noosa and District
Landcare and Noosa Integrated Catchment Association.
Noosa River Plan l Page 31
Section 32
Objective 6: Commercial and recreational fishing are sustainably managed in the Noosa River.
Management response Who When
Continue to advocate as a key stakeholder in the State’s sustainable Council Ongoing
fisheries management reforms for the Noosa region.
Continue to explore, partner and invest in projects and initiatives Council, Ongoing
that seek to improve river quality, habitat and health with a range of Natural Resource
community organisations and partner organisations. Example-Bring Management
Back the Fish partner project. groups, Community
stakeholders
A F T
D R
3.2 Rural and urban runoff (and other pollution sources)
3.2.1
Rural runoff
The hinterland sub-catchments within the broader Noosa River catchment have the potential to deliver
sediment laden runoff into waterways and wetlands when it rains, especially former timbered areas which
have typically been replaced by agriculture lands and road networks.
This transition has involved broad clearing across the landscape (including hill slopes) to make way for crop
growing and animal raising and has made landscapes vulnerable to soil loss. Runoff from these areas can
contain elevated quantities of sediment, nutrients and chemical contaminants (e.g. animal faeces, fertilisers
and pesticides), and microbial contaminants (e.g. bacteria).
Page 32 l Noosa River Plan
Section 33
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All the Shire’s residents have an ‘environmental duty of care’ under the Environment Protection Act and
the Environment Protection (Water) Policy to ensure their land-based activities do not adversely affect
environmental flows, water quality, riparian areas, wetlands and in-stream habitats.
A
Landholder extension and educational programs are the preferred non-statutory approach to help achieve
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best management practices.
These programs can cover a wide range of land management and production issues, with soil health,
grazing and use of fertilisers and chemicals directly relevant to water quality improvement. They are
D
being implemented throughout central and north Queensland’s river catchments to help reduce the
impacts of rural runoff on the Great Barrier Reef.
Rural enterprise is a sector Council is committed to growing through the Noosa Shire Local Economic Plan
as there is increasing demand for sustainably produced local food and beverages.
Noosa River Plan l Page 33
Section 34
Partnerships and projects The Kin Kin sub-catchment is the largest area of modified landscape in the Noosa River catchment and is a major source of sediments entering waterways. In 2015 the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation funded Noosa and District Landcare to undertake a LIDAR (Light Detection & Ranging) study to identify the degree of soil loss in the Kin Kin sub-catchment. In addition, Council commissioned a condition assessment of all waterways within the Shire to identify their ecological values and ‘recovery potential’ to remediation activities. These studies provide relevant, science-based research to inform management of landslips, erosion hotspots and where to target investments to repair degraded waterways and wetlands. They also provide the basis of partner project Keep It in Kin Kin which aims to reduce rural runoff, improve land management practices and protect riparian areas and wetlands. This project is led by Noosa and District Landcare with funding made available through the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation with support from Noosa Council and Noosa Parks Association, The Thomas Foundation and the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association. Keep It in Kin Kin This project compares LIDAR imagery from 2008 to 2015 to identify erosion hotspots in the Kin Kin sub-catchment most in need of intervention to keep the soil on the land and out of the waterways. LIDAR is an optical remote-sensing technique that uses laser light to densely sample the surface of the earth. The analysis reveals that up to 2.3 million tonnes of sediment was mobilised in this area over the last seven years. Only 275,856 tonnes of sediment was found to be deposited in the sub- catchment which equates to approximately 88% of soil leaving the catchment via the waterways. Infographic Soil loss in Kin Kin? Based on an average soil replacement cost of $30/tonne the cost of this soil productivity loss exceeds $6M. This project also includes an extensive survey of the creek banks to locate infestations of the riparian menace Cats Claw Creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati). This ‘transformer’ weed species can dominate and completely degrade the integrity of creek and river banks, causing erosion and reducing biodiversity. Implementation of a rural landholder education and extension program, as part of the project, will support landholders in remediation of landslips, erosion hotspots and eradication of Cat’s Claw to negate these degrading processes on the river system. Page 34 l Noosa River Plan
Section 35
Unsealed rural roads
Unsealed rural roads are potentially a major source of sediment entering waterways when it rains.
In the Noosa River catchment no specific measures of sediment contribution from rural roads has been
undertaken. Healthy Land and Water have identified that a critical factor in determining the contribution
of sediment from roads to waterways relates to the level of connectivity of ‘table drains’ entering these
receiving waterways. A table drain is a v-shaped, trapezoidal or parabolic-shaped surface drain located
immediately adjacent to the edge of a road.
This research has demonstrated that lowering connectivity to waterways requires that water is either
discharged from table drains or spread across vegetated landscapes where sediment can settle or the flow is
directed into detention basins for sediment settling.
A F T
D R
Objective 7: Sediment, nutrients and contaminants moving from rural areas to waterways and
wetlands are reduced.
Objective 8: Degraded waterways, wetlands, riparian areas and in-stream habitats are rehabilitated.
Management response Who When
Develop and implement a targeted extension Council, NRM Groups, Medium term
and education program for rural landholders in Community stakeholders
important rural sub-catchments
Continue to explore, partner and invest in projects Council, NRM Groups, Ongoing
and initiatives that seek to improve and remediate Community stakeholders
erosion hot spots and rehabilitate riparian areas.
Example-Keep It In Kin Kin partner project.
Investigate the potential of unsealed rural roads Council Medium term
in important rural sub-catchments contributing
sediment-laden runoff to waterways.
Noosa River Plan l Page 35
Section 36
3.2.2 Urban runoff Urban runoff is a mixture of treated and untreated stormwater. It can be a major source of pollution. It is delivered to waterways via the stormwater network and contains sediments, nutrients and chemical contaminants, and ‘gross pollution’ such as litter. The impervious surfaces of urban areas such as roofs, roads, driveways, car parks and paving also increase the velocity and quantity of runoff to waterways. Urban stormwater infrastructure, particularly water sensitive urban design (WSUD) infrastructure, can play a key role in reducing stormwater velocity and pollutants entering waterways. In new residential developments, the installation of bioretention basins has become the most common stormwater quality treatment. Bioretention basins are a hybrid engineered and vegetated filtration device used to remove sediment, nutrients and litter from urban stormwater runoff. In existing urban areas, stormwater quality treatment devices such as Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs) were installed long before the bioretention basin technology. GPTs can intercept pollutants such as soil, silt, leaves, hydrocarbons and litter before entering the receiving waters. Continued upgrading and renewal of these types of infrastructure, as well as maintenance, is essential for ongoing effectiveness. Page 36 l Noosa River Plan
Section 37
Council has a statutory management responsibility under the Environment Protection Act and
Environment Protection (Water) Policy to make sure Noosa’s waterways are protected through
management of pollution sources. These responsibilities include ensuring:
• The quality of stormwater leaving new residential development achieves the State Planning
Policy’s pollution reduction targets.
• In existing residential developments, water pollutant loads to receiving waters are reduced.
Best management practices for stormwater management ensure:
• Renewal opportunities for stormwater quality improvement devices (including litter nets) are
comprehensively investigated, mapped, assessed and prioritised.
• Renewals are systematically implemented as part of a long term, stormwater management
improvement program.
• All stormwater quality improvement devices are managed and maintained over the life cycle of the
asset to ensure treatment efficiencies are maintained.
Noosa River Plan l Page 37
Council has a statutory management responsibility under the Environment Protection Act and
Environment Protection (Water) Policy to make sure Noosa’s waterways are protected through
management of pollution sources. These responsibilities include ensuring:
e The quality of stormwater leaving new residential development achieves the State Planning
Policy’s pollution reduction targets.
e In existing residential developments, water pollutant loads to receiving waters are reduced.
Best management practices for stormwater management ensure:
e Renewal opportunities for stormwater quality improvement devices (including litter nets) are
comprehensively investigated, mapped, assessed and prioritised.
e Renewals are systematically implemented as part of a long term, stormwater management
improvement program.
e All stormwater quality improvement devices are managed and maintained over the life cycle of the
asset to ensure treatment efficiencies are maintained.
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3.2.3
Other pollution sources
Industrial business operations with the potential to release contaminants into waterways are referred to
as Environmentally Relevant Activities (ERAs). These businesses are licensed with conditions under the
Environment Protection Act 1994.
Council undertakes annual inspections of ERA licensed businesses to ensure compliance. These businesses
include boat building, metal recovery, and asphalt industries. Following the introduction of the State
Government’s Green Tape Reduction Act 2012, many previously ERA licensed businesses, with the potential
to pollute waterways, no longer require a licence with conditions of use, or an authorised annual inspection
by Council. These businesses are expected to self-regulate and adhere to industry standards.
In 2016, an initial stormwater pollution investigation of the Noosaville industrial estate revealed pollution
had occurred and impacted the local waterway. A further comprehensive investigation of 132 businesses
T
across the Shire followed. It also revealed an alarming level of non-compliance.
Council has been working in partnership with key industries to facilitate information on environmental
F
compliance and share knowledge. A risk-based annual inspection program of industrial premises is required
to monitor protection of waterways values under the Environment Protection (Water) Policy.
A
Throughout the catchment, there are also instances where individual practices create polluted runoff,
which enters waterways, predominantly via the stormwater network. Specific examples include:
R
• Building sites without erosion controls in place (sediment runoff when it rains).
• Back-washing of private swimming pools and spas (pathogens/chemical releases).
D
• Cleaning and painting roofs (runoff of paint/cleaning substances).
• Car washes (runoff of hydrocarbons/cleaning substances) littering.
Page 38 l Noosa River Plan
Section 39
Objective 9: The quality of water running off urban areas is improved.
Management response Who When
Ensure inclusion of environmental considerations in new and renewal Council Ongoing
capital projects and the asset management program.
Ensure capital works projects include stormwater quality improvement Council Ongoing
devices, including litter nets, to reduce any pollution of waterways.
Continue to require, regulate and ensure compliance of stormwater Council Ongoing
management systems and water sensitive urban design in private
development.
Continue to conduct risk-based annual inspections to monitor compliance Council Ongoing
T
of ERA licensed industrial operations.
F
Conduct risk-based annual inspections of non-EA licensed industrial Council Ongoing
operations to monitor activities.
A
Develop and implement a proactive education, behaviour change and Council, Medium
compliance program to increase community awareness of the impact of Community term
R
specific practices which pollute waterways (e.g. erosion & sediment control stakeholders
on construction sites, roof painting, pool backwashing and car washes).
D
Noosa River Plan l Page 39
Section 40
Residential septic systems
Residential on-site septic systems and waste water treatment facilities have the potential to impact
groundwater quality if not appropriately managed, particularly within rural sub-catchments.
Council has a non-statutory responsibility to ensure education, behaviour change and compliance programs
are in place to prevent waterways pollution, including pollution of groundwater.
Objective 10: Sewage collection and treatment facilities are designed and managed to minimise
adverse impacts on water quality (including groundwater) and habitats.
Management response Who When
Establish an inspection program to proactively investigate potential Council Medium term
of septic systems (and waste water treatment facilities) effluent
T
leaking to groundwater.
F
Littering
A
Littering in and around the Noosa River system is quite common. Hotspots include the river foreshores,
popular fishing locations, islands in the river, and along the beaches.
R
CSIRO has conducted significant research into littering and marine debris in Australian waters.
Survey data from every 100 km along the Australian coastline has shown that approximately three-quarters
D
of the litter along the Australian coastline is plastic. Most is from Australian sources, not from overseas, with
litter concentrated near urban centres.
Useful interventions, as identified by CSIRO,
include:
• ‘Targeted’ litter education and
awareness campaigns to stop
littering.
• Litter debris traps in both surface
and stormwater systems to reduce
litter loads to waterways.
• River and beach clean ups to reduce
litter deposited in and around local
waterways.
A 2017 trial, using ‘litter booms’ in
waterways and ‘foreshore and beach
cleaning’ conducted within the Sunshine
Coast Local Government Area, removed
3,493 plastic bottles and 2,659 plastic bags
over a four month period.
Trials such as these, implemented in
conjunction with targeted litter education
and behaviour change campaigns, can deliver
tangible outcomes in mitigating the impact
of marine debris in the Noosa River.
Page 40 l Noosa River Plan
Section 41
River and beach clean ups
The scourge of plastics in waterways and the impact on marine life and seabirds resonates with many
individuals and organisations in the community as a key environmental issue. An amazing cross-section
of dedicated volunteers of all ages, act individually or together for coordinated river and beach clean-ups
throughout the year.
Council supports these volunteers and clean-ups through provision of rubbish bags and disposal, and
administers temporary event permits for activities conducted on public land. Key coordinating organisations
include:
• Noosa Integrated Catchment Association (River Rangers).
• Surfrider Foundation.
• Clean Up Australia Day (CUAD).
• Noosa Community Biosphere Association.
• Coolum & District Coastcare.
T
• Sea Shepherd.
F
• Corporate organisations (Unitywater, Sofitel Noosa,
Peppers Noosa).
D R
Marine Debris – why does it matter? A
Marine ecosystems worldwide are affected by human-made litter, much of which is plastic. Wildlife
is impacted by marine debris directly through ingestion and entanglement and indirectly through
chemical affects.
About half of seabird species across the globe have eaten plastic–this will likely increase to 95%
of all seabird species by 2050.
Birds eat everything from balloons to glow sticks, industrial plastic pellets, hard bits of plastic,
foam, metal hooks and fishing line.
Approximately one third of marine turtles have likely ingested debris–most items eaten are plastic
and many turtles are now positively buoyant.
The regions of highest risk to global marine turtle populations are off the east coast of Australia,
South Africa and USA; the East Indian Ocean, and Southeast Asia.
Turtles, seabirds, whales, dolphins, dugongs, fish, crabs and numerous other species are killed and
maimed through marine debris entanglement.
Section 42
A number of groups collate their findings and
report on the volume of rubbish retrieved in
and around Noosa’s waterways each year:
• NICA’s River Ranger volunteers fill a
1000L skip bin every two months with
discarded items and litter from the
lower Noosa River estuary.
• Surfrider Foundation volunteers
annually collect 5 tonnes of rubbish
along the Noosa North Shore to
Double Island Point.
• Clean Up Australia Day volunteers
recovered 8.2 tonnes of discarded
items and 300 bags of litter from
across the Shire in 2017.
Photo 1: The image above depicts a morning’s haul from
the Noosa River by NICA’s volunteer River Rangers, 2017
An important outcome of river and beach clean-ups is the data gathered about rubbish collected at a
given location. This data input to the Australian Marine Debris Database helps inform strategies for the
long-term prevention of marine debris, including tackling the source of the rubbish.
Page 42 l Noosa River Plan
Section 43
Source reduction strategies
Plastic bag ban and Refundable containers
In 2018 Queensland will introduce a
ban on single-use plastic bags, and
a container refund scheme. These
initiatives anticipate reducing the
number of plastic bags and drinking
container litter entering the environment.
In Noosa, the Boomerang Alliance has
taken a lead role in influencing consumer
behaviour, especially with regard to
plastics. BANNED
The Plastic Free Noosa campaign engages
with the retail and hospitality sector,
T
as well as market, festival and event
organisers, to encourage the take-up
F
of reusable containers and packaging,
or switch to commercially compostable
alternatives where possible.
A
Broad community participation in Plastic CONTAINER REFUND SCHEME
Free Noosa as well as a targeted litter
R
education and awareness campaign to
stop the practice of littering throughout
the river catchment has the capacity
D
to reduce the amount of plastic in our
waterways and ultimately the ocean.
PET, HDPE PLASTICS
Objective 11: Impacts of litter in and around Noosa’s waterways are reduced.
Management response Who When
Trial installation of litter nets at stormwater outlets and litter Council Short term
booms in key locations in the river.
Develop and implement a targeted anti-littering campaign. Council, Short – medium
community term
stakeholders
Support volunteer river and beach clean ups to remove litter from Council, Ongoing
in & around waterways. community
stakeholders
Continue to promote and provide in-kind support to the Plastic Council, Ongoing
Free Noosa initiative. community
stakeholders
Noosa River Plan l Page 43
Section 44
3.3
Climate change
South East Queensland has been identified as one of several high-vulnerability climate change ‘hot spots’
in Australia. Accordingly, a number of climate-driven natural hazards which Noosa Shire is currently
exposed to are likely to be more problematic in the future. These include:
• More frequent and intense storm events.
• Lower average rainfall and more droughts.
• Flooding and heatwaves.
• Storm surge and coastal erosion.
• High sea level (Council Policy, Climate Change Response, 2017).
During shorter, more intense wet periods, freshwater creeks and estuaries are likely to receive higher
T
flows, resulting in more runoff, increased bank erosion and landslips, exacerbating the rural and urban
runoff pressures.
F
Further to existing pressures from population growth and coastal development, fisheries production will
be impacted by changed patterns of rainfall and flow events, increasing water temperatures, fish habitat
transitions and changes in stock distribution.
A
In extended dry conditions, environmental flows and water quality are likely to decline and affect aquatic
life and waterway recreational activities. Impacts on low-lying coastal areas will be compounded by the
R
climate variability, and degraded environments can accelerate this ‘rate of change’ and increase instability.
With the anticipated higher sea levels and storm surge, low-lying freshwater systems will be vulnerable to
D
saltwater intrusion and inundation. Our climate has already begun to change, however sea level rise and
its influence on the extent and severity of coastal hazards risks, are not projected to be felt for some time
(Council Policy, Climate Change Response, 2017).
Understanding the impacts on vulnerable ecosystems can help identify measures to build resilience and
secure vital refugia for native animals (including aquatic animals) over the long term.
Exposed and sensitive areas in the river catchment
As a low-lying coastal area, the Noosa Shire has high exposure and sensitivity to the impacts predicted
to be most prominent in coastal areas, wet lowland forests and riparian areas (Noosa Biodiversity
Assessment Report, 2017).
Due to heavier rainfall events and more extensive and destructive flooding (refer Table 2 below) riparian
areas and wetlands in the catchment are expected to experience more frequent and intense damage such
as wetland silting and loss of soil and nutrients from riparian zones.
These areas will also become more susceptible to weed incursions and greater natural ecosystem
disturbance (Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report, 2017).
Page 44 l Noosa River Plan
Section 45
T
Moderate flooding – may occur Major flooding – may occur at Extreme flooding – rare event
on average once a decade. least once in an average lifetime. relatively few people to witness.
F
Table 2. River and storm tide flood maps (Source: NSC Disaster Management).
A
Lower average rainfall and more droughts equate to a hotter, drier climate i.e. increased temperatures and
R
evaporation. Vegetation within the catchment is anticipated to experience some sensitivity to these effects.
The bushfire risk will also increase and is likely to be further exacerbated by other factors such as increased
understorey fuel loads from weed incursion (refer Table 3 and Map 1 below).
D
Broad Vegetation Groups (BVGs) Area of increased bushfire % of total area of this
risk (ha) vegetation type
Rainforest / scrubs 5,674 84%
Wet Eucalypt 10,556 100%
Eucalypt woodland 13,267 100%
Eucalypt woodland on floodplains 975 95%
Paperbark woodlands 7,306 100%
Heaths and other coastal vegetation 5,481 93%
Wetlands 240 100%
Mangroves and Saltmarsh 199 47%
TOTAL 43,698
Table 3. Vegetation vulnerability to bushfires (Source: Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report, 2017)
Noosa River Plan l Page 45
Section 46
A F T
D R
Map 1. Bushfire risk vulnerability within the Noosa Shire (Source: Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report, 2017).
Page 46 l Noosa River Plan
Section 47
The sea level rise exposure areas are concentrated around the fringes of the coastal waterways of the
Noosa River and the low flow lagoon systems of Lakes Cootharaba, Cooriobah, Doonella and Weyba (refer
Map 2 below). Sea level rise could raise the normal river level (tidal zone only) by 0.8m by 2100, with more
land inundated during storm tide events in the future (Climate Change Adaptation Plan, 2018).
A F T
D R
Map 2. Sea level rise vulnerability in the Noosa River catchment (Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report, 2017).
Noosa River Plan l Page 47
Section 48
The most affected vegetation groups in these areas are anticipated to be mangrove and saltmarshes,
followed by paperbark woodlands. In addition, rainforests, wetlands and heath communities would be
significantly susceptible to saline incursion and storm tide inundation – refer Table 4 below.
Broad Vegetation Groups (BVGs) Area at risk from sea level rise % of total area of this
(ha) vegetation type
Rainforest/scrubs 8 0%
Wet Eucalypt 37 0%
Eucalypt woodland 498 4%
Eucalypt woodland on floodplains 36 4%
Paperbark woodlands 2,973 41%
Heaths and other coastal communities 580 10%
T
Wetlands 42 18%
F
Mangroves and Saltmarsh 418 98%
TOTAL 4,592
A
Table 4. Vegetation vulnerability to sea level rise (Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report, 2017)
R
Low risk climate change adaption in catchment management
It is Council’s intention to adopt an ecosystem-based approach in preparing the Noosa River catchment for
D
the impacts of climate change.
Important findings by Lukasiewicz, Finalyson and Pittock, 2013 recognised many existing catchment
management activities represent an ecosystem-based approach to climate change adaptation but are usually
undertaken in response to existing pressures with their climate change adaptation potential not considered.
Six (6) catchment management actions were identified as the lowest risks and highest benefits under a
variety of climate change scenarios. These include:
• Restoration of riparian vegetation.
• Management of weed and pest species.
• Freshwater habitat connectivity.
• Conservation of more resilient habitats.
• Conservation of gaining reaches.
• Geomorphic restoration (Lukasiewicz et al, 2013).
Resilient habitats refer to the capacity of an ecosystem to
respond to a disturbance by resisting damage and recovering
quickly without changing or losing function or services. A
‘gaining stream’ is where groundwater flows into a river
channel from a local aquifer and increases water volume farther downstream. ‘Geomorphic restoration’
relates to restoring the processes which form landscapes (Lukasiewicz et al, 2013).
Other low-risk, high-benefit adaptation options for consideration include water management throughout the
catchment. These include scenarios that intervene in the water or flow regime of a wetland or river such as
farm dam management, groundwater water extractions and waste water treatment (Lukasiewicz et al, 2013).
This is an important focus for the Noosa River Wetlands and Lake Weyba, which constitutes a groundwater-
fed connected system.
All these approaches demonstrate best practice and aim to maximise and optimise the river catchment’s
natural values and ecosystems services (Lukasiewicz et al, 2013).
Page 48 l Noosa River Plan
Section 49
A F T
D R
Council, in conjunction with Noosa and District Landcare, commissioned a study to examine barriers
to fish passage through the river system and the Department of Environment and Science (Wetlands
Unit, 2017) conducted a Walking the Landscape workshop. These both provide up to date and
relevant science-based research regarding aquatic connectivity and a whole-of-system framework for
understanding how water flows in the catchment.
In addition, the Noosa Shire – Waterways Assessment 2017 has helped inform the Noosa Planning
Scheme and future rehabilitation strategies.
These studies build knowledge about:
• Unique habitats of high ecological values
• Key areas most vulnerable to climate changes
• Key areas suitable for restoration of aquatic habitats and to improve fish passage
• Key erosion hotspots suitable for future restoration activities.
This information has and will continue to guide partner projects to enhance the natural values of the river
system.
Noosa River Plan l Page 49
Section 50
Assessment of Barriers
to Fish Passage
Fish require passage throughout
the river system as part of their life
cycle for the purposes of breeding
and spawning, feeding, juvenile
migration, predator avoidance,
defence and territorial behaviour.
Man-made structures such as
culverts, causeways, bridges,
dams and weirs can form partial
or complete barriers which inhibit
fish movement. This can be through
an actual physical blockage of the
waterway or through alteration of
the natural flow conditions.
Other barriers include weed and
sediment chokes in and beside
waterways, or chemical barriers
such as pollution or acidification of
waterways.
The project aims to:
• inform future investment for
fish passage remediation
• restore aquatic connectivity
within the river system.
This partner project is led by Noosa
& District Landcare. Funding has
been made available through
Noosa Council’s community grants
program.
Objective 12: Resilience to the impacts of climate change in the Noosa River catchment is enhanced.
Management response Who When
Identify vulnerable sub-catchments and ecosystems at high risk to Council Short –
climate change impacts and potential management actions as part medium term
of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan.
Identify existing catchment management activities occurring in Council, Natural Ongoing
vulnerable areas and how these can help build ecosystem resilience Resource
to climate change (e.g. Partner Projects, volunteer Bushland Care Management
activities, Bushland Reserve management around waterways and groups,
Land for Wildlife/Volunteer Conservation Agreement program Community
participants). stakeholders
Page 50 l Noosa River Plan
Section 51
3.4
Engagement with Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Traditional Owners
The Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) First Nation
People are the Traditional Owners and Native
Title Applicants for the Noosa Shire.
A recommendation of the Noosa River
Community Jury was for Council to establish
an effective duty of care and policy regarding
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and engagement
with Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) representatives
on all aspects of river management.
In May 2017 Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) family
representatives were invited to attend an
informal workshop with Council to get
to know each other, help build respectful
relationships and discuss involvement in river management.
At this initial meeting, Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) expressed their preference for all engagement activities to
be conducted through the Native Title Applicants, their interest in protecting cultural heritage, and being
involved in the planned oyster reef restoration in the estuary.
In July 2017, the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Native Title Applicants and families were invited to the Noosa
North Shore for a camping weekend with Noosa Councillors and key staff. This get together was held at a
time when traditionally many Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) people congregated on the North Shore beach during
winter fish runs prior to European settlement. Here discussions focused on:
• Recognition of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in the catchment through art, interpretation and
education.
• Protection of cultural sites and values.
• Indigenous Land & Sea Ranger Program for Noosa.
• Involvement in policy and programs.
The Noosa Heritage Reference Group invited a Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) representative to be part of this
group, which provides recommendations to Council regarding investment of the Shire’s Heritage Levy funds.
A Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) led proposal to identify and map Aboriginal Cultural Heritage throughout the
catchment is now underway.
The Indigenous Land & Sea Ranger Program is managed by the Department of Environment and Heritage
Protection (EHP) with rangers employed through local indigenous host organisations and funding provided
by the Queensland Government.
Land and Sea Rangers have been contracted to work in 17 regional and remote communities across
Queensland and undertake a wide range of environmental restoration activities, community education and
visitor management (e.g. eco-tourism). This program continues to successfully deliver on planned activities
and program outcomes, with clear evidence these activities lead to wider environmental, social, cultural and
economic benefits.
The initiatives listed above create opportunities for the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) to work on country and
sustain their cultural and spiritual obligations. For others, these endeavours have the potential to enrich
further understanding of the Aboriginal cultural significance of the Noosa River catchment.
Noosa River Plan l Page 51
Section 52
Objective 13: Aboriginal cultural heritage is protected and Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) led river initiatives
are supported.
Management response Who When
Ensure Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Council, Traditional Owners Ongoing
is represented on the Noosa
Heritage Reference Group to help
identify and protect Aboriginal
cultural heritage in Noosa River
catchment.
Help facilitate Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Council, Traditional Owners, Ongoing
Gubbi) involvement in key partner NRM groups and Community
projects and policy development. stakeholders
T
Promote and support Council, Traditional Owners Medium term
F
development of an Indigenous
Land and Sea Ranger Program.
R A
3.5
Protection of migratory
D
shorebird habitat
Every spring and summer the Noosa River
mouth and estuary becomes home to
thousands of migratory shorebirds that have
left their breeding grounds in Arctic Asia,
Alaska and the North Pacific.
The shorebirds stay in Noosa until autumn,
building up strength to undertake their
journey back to their breeding grounds,
however juveniles may remain the whole
year until mature enough to undertake the
migratory journey.
Australia is an ecologically important location
for migratory shorebirds within the East
Asian-Australasian flyway (see opposite),
with an estimated two million shorebirds
migrating annually. To ensure their
conservation, the Australian Government has
fostered international cooperation through a
range of important agreements.
Migratory shorebirds must have space,
food and protection from predators and
disturbance to recuperate from their long
flights. Conservation of these sites for
Page 52 l Noosa River Plan
Section 53
migratory birds both within Australia and along
their migration routes is essential to their survival.
Ideally, there should be no public access (by
humans and/or domestic animals) to areas
identified as important to migratory shorebirds.
Where this is not feasible, particular recreational
activities may need to be excluded or it may be
necessary to limit the number of people using an
area at one time and/or limit activities during the
period between October and March when the
majority of shorebirds will be present.
Exclusion Zone - Noosa North Shore
To ensure Noosa’s important shorebird site is
T
protected from human disturbances, Council
established an ‘exclusion zone’ on the Noosa North
F
Shore adjacent to the river mouth.
This exclusion zone prohibits access of 4WDs, dogs and horses. The public are still able to access the
A
exclusion zone area by foot and/or by boat.
To improve awareness of the exclusion zone it is proposed to install a beach buoy line (see opposite) in this
R
area as an alternative to fencing, and create a visual demarcation of the exclusion zone for 4WDs.
D
Objective 14: International agreements for the protection of migratory shorebird habitat are upheld.
Management response Who When
Conduct regular regulatory compliance of Noosa North Shore exclusion Council Ongoing
zone to protect migratory shorebird habitat.
Install a ‘beach buoy line’ to mark the Noosa North Shore exclusion zone Council Short term
boundary.
Noosa River Plan l Page 53
Section 54
A F T
D R
3.6
Coastal algal blooms
Since 2002, Hincksia sordida, a naturally occurring non-toxic brown alga has periodically ‘bloomed’ in
Laguna Bay to form dense patches within the surf zone of Noosa’s Main Beach, with large quantities of
Hincksia becoming stranded on the beach by the receding tides.
These algal blooms have occurred during spring or early summer and coincided with popular holiday
periods and recreational use of the beach and ocean. The duration of the bloom depends on the
availability of nutrients, flow conditions and the weather.
The presence of Hincksia is visually unappealing to swimmers and decomposing algae on the beach can
emit a sulphurous odour which also deters beach goers. Council removes the washed up Hincksia to
landfill which helps to keep the beach free of the algae so it remains enjoyable for residents and tourists.
All other beaches south of Main Beach are not affected by Hincksia.
Why is Hincksia here?
Algae in general are found in most aquatic environments including rivers, lakes, estuaries, oceans, hot
springs and glaciers. They are vital components of aquatic ecosystems as they are producers of oxygen
and carbohydrates.
When conditions are favourable, some algae species (including Hincksia) have the potential to ‘bloom’ and
they can grow rapidly to dominate the aquatic environment. Coastal algal blooms can persist for several
weeks or even months. The bloom ‘collapses’ once the algae have consumed all available nutrients, or
conditions (e.g. flow, weather) are no longer conducive to rapid growth (Healthy Waterways, 2005).
Page 54 l Noosa River Plan
Section 55
In Noosa, the Hincksia blooms ‘worsen’ with
north-easterly winds and are ‘cleared’ from Main
Beach by south-easterly winds. From 2002 to
2006, and again in 2017, nuisance blooms of
Hincksia in Laguna Bay significantly impacted
the local economy and residents and visitors’
enjoyment of Noosa’s Main Beach.
Previous studies and trials aimed at finding the
source of Hincksia and removing the vast biomass
of a Hincksia bloom from Laguna Bay proved
inconclusive.
Research has recognised macroalgal blooms (such
as Hincksia) are a ‘symptom’ of increasing nutrient
loading into aquatic environments which has been
T
demonstrated by the disappearance of blooms in
a number of estuarine bays in the USA and the
F
UK following the reduction in nutrient input into
these systems (Phillips, 2006).
A
The findings from this research suggest the source
of nutrients fuelling the bloom at Noosa must be
R
identified and management strategies developed
to reduce nutrient inputs (Phillips, 2006).
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Objective 15: The occurrence of coastal algal blooms in Laguna Bay is mitigated and/or reduced.
Management response
Devise a management strategy in conjunction with macroalgal
biology & ecology experts to seek to further understand, manage
and potentially reduce Hincksia sordida blooms.
Who
Council
When
Short – medium
term
Noosa River Plan l Page 55
Section 56
4.0
Implementation - Action Plan
Implementation of this River Plan is intended to occur in partnership with community stakeholders including
Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups and the relevant State Government agencies. It is proposed
to establish a River Management Unit within Council to coordinate implementation of the Plan’s actions.
Following community feedback on this plan, it is proposed to feature a mix of approaches including:
Ongoing actions within the existing remit of Council that can be undertaken without requiring
•
existing resources.
New initiatives which can be undertaken by Council that will either require additional funding, or
•
will be within the existing remit of Council without requiring new resources or funding.
• ollaborative action which can be funded by a range of internal and external sources that may or
C
may not have the active involvement of Council.
T
Advocacy initiatives which require Council to gain the support of the State Government and may
•
require legislative reform.
F
Priorities for implementation of the actions will be developed in consultation with internal and external
stakeholders. Council will be exploring and seeking a range of revenue sources to support the funding of
A
achieving the objectives of this plan. Where funding is required, Council will seek to secure and allocate
funds based on the priorities as part of the annual budget process and seek alternate revenue sources
where feasible.
R
A five (5) year timeline is set for implementation of the Action Plan below. Approximate timeframes for each
of the actions have been identified:
D
• Short term – within the first 18 months of the life of the plan
• Medium term – between 12 months and 3 years
• Long term – 3-5 years.
Monitoring and evaluation
It is proposed to review the Action Plan annually to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of
implementation, as well as enable an appropriate management response to emerging issues and trends
occurring in the river system. The aim of monitoring and evaluation is to measure the efficiency and
effectiveness of investments made and report on the progress against the Plan’s objectives. This will
include:
• The extent to which actions have been successfully implemented - indicated by the percentage of
actions delivered within the planned timeframe.
• The extent to which actions have achieved the objectives and outcomes - indicated by the
percentage of objectives and outcomes achieved.
• The satisfaction of financial contributors with the level of outputs from investment - indicated by
the value of project outputs achieved, compared to the dollar and in-kind contributions made.
It is also proposed the River Plan itself be reviewed and updated every five (5) years to ensure the river
system continues to have a high management profile as an important natural asset and is protected for
future generations.
Page 56 l Noosa River Plan
Section 57
4.1
Action Plan
Action Responsibility Status/How? Timeframe Outcome
1 Establish a dedicated River Council New initiative Short term A new level of service is
Management Unit within created by Council and
Council to coordinate and resourced to manage the
implement the actions of Noosa River.
the River Plan.
2 Establish appropriate Council, New initiative Ongoing The community is
communication and Community engaged and continues
T
consultation mechanisms stakeholders to contribute to the
to support ongoing management of the Noosa
F
community input into the River.
management of the Noosa
River.
A
3 Investigate alternative Council Ongoing Short - Management costs
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revenue and funding medium associated with River Plan
sources to assist in the term implementation are offset
implementation of the by alternative revenue
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River Plan objectives and streams where possible.
actions.
4 Work with community Council, New initiative Ongoing Water quality monitoring
groups and other agencies Community by partner agencies
to ensure appropriate stakeholders, is targeted to inform
water quality monitoring is relevant State management of the Noosa
undertaken in the Noosa agencies. River system.
River.
Management theme: Population growth, recreational demand and commercial use of the river
5 Implement an on-river Council New initiative Short - The recreational boating
education and compliance medium public understand and
program to regulate term observe the Noosa River
activities within the Marine Zone restrictions
existing Noosa River and prohibitions.
Marine Zone.
6 Install additional Marine Council New initiative Short term The recreational boating
Zone signage on the public understand and
foreshores to clarify the observe the Noosa River
beginning and end of the Marine Zone restrictions
MZ. and prohibitions.
Noosa River Plan l Page 57
Section 58
7 Advance discussions Council, New initiative Short – Noosa Council takes on
with relevant State Queensland medium responsibility for agreed
agencies, informed by Government, term management functions in
the Community Jury’s Community the Noosa River.
recommendation that stakeholders
Noosa Council should
take on the responsibility
of managing anchoring,
mooring, commercial uses
and jetty leases for the
Noosa River. Subject to the
handover of responsibility
to Council for these
activities, pursue:
T
a) Development of an Council Short term A clear management
F
Anchoring, Mooring framework is established.
and Living on Board
Management Plan to
A
identify how Council
intends to manage these
R
activities.
b) State endorsement of Council, Short- Anchoring, mooring and
D
the Plan, and enter into Queensland medium living on the river are
a formalised agreement Government term locally managed.
under relevant waterways
legislation.
c) Implementation of an Council Short- All waterways regulations
on-river education and medium and ‘conditions of use’ are
compliance program term observed by the owners or
to regulate anchoring, operators of vessels.
mooring and living on the
river.
d) A review of anchoring Council Short- Impacts on water quality
and mooring locations and medium and declared Fish Habitat
types of mooring. term Areas are reduced. Safe
and suitable locations
are provided for vessels.
Clutter and congestions
in the lower estuary is
reduced.
e) Identification of a cap Council Medium Vessels used to live
and locations for living on term on board create no
board in the river. impediments regarding use
of river foreshores by local
residents and the general
public.
Page 58 l Noosa River Plan
Section 59
f) Effective monitoring Council Medium The release of pollutants
and facilitation of waste term from vessels into the river
tank effluent removal and system is prevented.
disposal from vessels.
g) Removal of unsafe, Council Short - Unsafe, abandoned
abandoned and derelict medium and derelict vessels are
vessels from the Noosa term gradually removed from
River. the river.
8 Investigate legislative Council, New initiative Short- New provisions in the
amendments to control Queensland medium relevant waterways
the ‘length of stay’ for Government term legislation prohibit
anchoring. long term unattended
T
anchoring in the Noosa
River.
F
9 Advocate for improved Council, New initiative Medium All round white lights
lighting and marker options Queensland term are displayed on vessels
A
for boats (and beacons) for Government occupying the river and
safety reasons. markers on beacons assist
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river navigation (especially
at night).
D
10 Review seasonal speed Council, New initiative Short term Speed limits in high use
limit restrictions around Community areas are appropriate to
Munna Point and stakeholders, ensure public safety and
Noosa Spit (Dog Beach) Queensland protection of sensitive
with Maritime Safety Government areas. Changes are
Queensland with a view supported by the broader
to making these changes community.
permanent.
11 Review current Council, New initiative Short - Noosa Council has
management of boat ramps Queensland medium control of Noosa River
and jetties in collaboration Government term management functions as
with the relevant State far as is practicable
agencies and:
a) Develop a Council Short - The database is shared by
comprehensive database Queensland medium all agencies and includes
of boat ramps and jetties in Government term locations and ownership
the river system. of unapproved jetties on
public land.
b) Investigate unauthorised Council Medium Public boat ramps are not
uses and their impacts term used for ‘unapproved’
on environment and local commercial operations.
streets. Impacts on surrounding
local streets and residents
are minimised.
Noosa River Plan l Page 59
Section 60
12 Investigate a means of Council New initiative Medium - Council makes informed,
assessing the carrying long term long-term decisions about
capacity of the river marine infrastructure in
in terms of marine the Noosa River.
infrastructure.
13 Support the Council New initiative Ongoing The river and its foreshore
implementation of the are public assets protected
Noosaville Foreshore and managed for all to
Master Plan. enjoy
14 Review and update Council Existing Medium Applications for new
Council’s Guidelines for initiative term businesses on the Noosa
the Establishment of New River and effectively
T
Businesses on the Noosa managed.
River.
F
15 Investigate a statutory Council New initiative Medium Commercial operations
means of regulating term on the Noosa River are
A
the size and type of managed effectively.
commercial fleets operating
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in the river.
16 Continue to advocate as Council Existing Ongoing The fisheries resources
D
a key stakeholder in the initiative in Noosa are managed in
State’s sustainable fisheries a genuinely sustainable
management reforms for manner.
the Noosa region.
17 Continue to explore, Council, New initiative Ongoing Council works with the
partner and invest in Natural community to develop and
projects and initiatives Resource deliver new initiatives.
that seek to improve river Management
quality, habitat and health groups,
with a range of community Community
organisations and partner stakeholders
organisations. Example-
Bring Back the Fish partner
project.
Page 60 l Noosa River Plan
Section 61
Management theme: Rural and urban runoff (and other pollution sources)
18 Develop and implement Council, New initiative Medium Best management
a targeted extension and Natural term practices in rural areas
education program for rural Resource ensure sediment loads
landholders in important Management and other contaminants to
rural sub catchments. groups, waterways are reduced..
Community
stakeholders
19 Continue to explore, Council, New initiative Ongoing Key erosion hot spots
partner and invest in Natural remediated. Sediment
projects and initiatives Resource loads to waterways are
that seek to improve and Management reduced. Riparian areas
T
remediate erosion hot groups, are protected to stabilise
spots and rehabilitate Community banks, maintain habitats
riparian areas. Example: stakeholders and ecological function.
F
Keep It In Kin Kin partner
project.
A
20 Investigate the potential Council New initiative Medium Sediment runoff to
R
of unsealed rural roads term waterways from unsealed
in important rural sub- rural roads is quantified
catchments contributing to better inform future
D
sediment-laden runoff to management.
waterways when it rains.
21 Ensure inclusion Council Existing Ongoing Stormwater quality
of environmental program improvement
considerations in upgrade infrastructures are
and renewal capital works maintained over life
projects and the asset cycle of asset to ensure
management program. treatment efficiencies are
maintained.
22 Ensure capital works Council Existing Ongoing Capital works are well
projects include program managed and do not add
stormwater quality pollution to waterways.
improvement devices, such
as litter nets, to reduce any
pollution of waterways.
23 Continue to require, Council Existing Ongoing Private developments
regulate and ensure program effectively manage inputs
compliance of stormwater into the stormwater
management systems system.
and water sensitive
urban design in private
development.
Noosa River Plan l Page 61
Section 62
24 Continue to conduct risk- Council Existing Ongoing Licenced industrial
based annual inspections program operations comply with
to monitor compliance of their EA requirements.
Environment Authority
(formerly ERA) licensed
industrial operations.
25 Conduct risk-based Council New initiative Ongoing Non-licenced industrial
annual inspections of non- operations comply with
Environment Authority the general environmental
licensed industrial obligation.
operations to monitor
activities.
T
26 Develop and implement Council, New initiative Medium Specific behaviours are
a proactive education, Community term targeted in industries that
behaviour-change and stakeholders impact on water quality.
F
compliance program
to increase community
A
awareness of the impact
of specific practices which
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pollute waterways (e.g.
erosion & sediment control
on construction sites, roof
D
painting, pool backwashing
and car washes).
27 Establish an inspection Council Existing Medium Landholders are aware
program to proactively program term of the condition of septic
investigate potential of expansion systems and encouraged
septic systems and waste to undertake remediation
water treatment facilities action.
to leak effluent into
groundwater.
28 Trial installation of litter Council New initiative Short term The effectiveness of litter
nets at stormwater outlets nets is properly assessed
and litter booms in key as a management tool for
locations in the river. the Noosa River.
29 Develop and implement Council New initiative Short- Specific behaviours are
a targeted anti-littering medium targeted to reduce the
campaign. term impact of litter in the
Noosa River
Page 62 l Noosa River Plan
Section 63
30 Support volunteer river Council, Existing Ongoing Litter around Noosa’s
and beach clean- ups to Community program/new waterways is reduced.
remove litter from in & stakeholders initiative Marine debris is reduced.
around waterways.
31 Continue to promote and Council, Existing Ongoing Council supports source
provide in-kind support Community program reduction strategies in
to the Plastic Free Noosa stakeholders Noosa to help reduce
initiative. plastics in waterways.
Management theme: Climate change
32 Identify vulnerable Council Ongoing Short- Understanding climate
sub-catchments and medium change impacts and risks
ecosystems at high risk to term in key areas helps inform
T
climate change impacts future management.
and potential management
F
actions as part of the
Climate Change Adaptation
A
Plan.
33 Identify existing catchment Council, New initiative Ongoing Community and partner
R
management activities Natural actions and investment
occurring in vulnerable Resource contribute to building
D
areas and how these can Management resilience in the
help build ecosystem groups catchment.
resilience to climate
change (e.g. Partner
Projects around waterways,
volunteer Bushland
Care activities, Bushland
Reserve management,
Land for Wildlife/Volunteer
Conservation Agreement
program participants).
34 Implement a program of Council New initiative Medium - Barriers to fish passage in
works to remediate barriers long term the Noosa River system
to fish passage identified as are gradually reduced.
high priorities. Fisheries connectivity
builds resilience in the
catchment.
Noosa River Plan l Page 63
Section 64
Management theme: Engagement with Kabi Kabi Traditional Owners
35 Ensure Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Council, New initiative Ongoing Aboriginal cultural
Gubbi) is represented Traditional heritage is protected and
on the Noosa Heritage Owners interpreted throughout the
Reference Group to river catchment.
help identify and protect
Aboriginal Cultural
Heritage in the Noosa
River catchment.
36 Help facilitate Kabi Kabi Council, New initiative Ongoing Kabi Kabi representatives
(Gubbi Gubbi) involvement Traditional are supported in their
in key partner projects and Owners caring for country
T
policy development. initiatives.
37 Promote and support Council, New initiative Medium Kabi Kabi are supported
F
development of an Traditional term in key programs and
Indigenous Land and Sea Owners initiatives for the ongoing
A
Ranger Program. management of the river.
Management theme: Protecting migratory shorebird habitat
R
38 Conduct regular Council New initiative Ongoing Residents and visitors
compliance activities are compliant with
D
of Noosa North Shore the Exclusion Zone
exclusion zone to protect restrictions on the
migratory bird habitat. Noosa North Shore.
4WD, horses and dogs
do not access this area.
Migratory shorebird
habitat is protected and
enhanced.
39 Install a ‘beach buoy’ to Council New initiative Short term Exclusion zone for
mark the Noosa North migratory shorebirds is
Shore exclusion zone observed.
boundary.
Management theme: Coastal algal blooms
40 Devise a management Council, Existing Short - The impacts of Hincksia
strategy in conjunction Natural program medium algal blooms are
with macroalgal biology Resource expansion term reduced or eliminated.
and ecology experts to Management
deter future Hincksia algal groups
blooms.
Page 64 l Noosa River Plan
Section 65
5.0 References and Bibliography
References
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), 2016, Case study: Sources,
distribution and fate of marine debris. Marine Debris Research Team, Australia.
Department of the Environment and Energy, Australian Government (2017), Migratory birds. Commonwealth
of Australia www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/migratory-species/migratory-birds
Department of Environment & Heritage Protection (2015), Queensland Indigenous Land & Sea Rangers –
Partnership Prospectus. Queensland Government, Brisbane.
Department of Transport and Main Roads (2014), Recreational Vessel Census. Queensland Government,
Brisbane.
GHD (2016), Queensland Recreational Boating Facilities Demand Forecasting Study – Noosa Shire Council
T
Assessment. Report for Department of Transport and Main Roads. Brisbane.
Healthy Land and Water (2017), Monitoring program. Brisbane. hlw.org.au/report-card/monitoring-program
F
Healthy Waterways and Catchments (2017), Keeping It In Kin Kin – Applying LiDAR Change to Identify Erosion
Hotspots. Brisbane.
A
Lukascewicz A, Finalyson CM, Pittock J (2013), Identifying low risk climate change adaptation in catchment
R
management while avoiding unintended consequences. National Climate Chance Adaption Research Facility
(NCCARF), Gold Coast, 95pp.
Mooney S, Petter M, Walker M, Chapman S (2017), Keeping It In Kin Kin – Applying LiDAR change to identify
D
erosion hotspots Final. Healthy Waterways & Catchments, Brisbane.
Moreton Bay Waterways & Catchment Partnership (2006), Guidelines for Contingency Response to Coastal
Algal Blooms. Healthy Waterways, Brisbane.
Moreton Bay Waterways & Catchment Partnership (2005), Nuisance Algal Blooms in marine & estuarine
environments. Information Sheet 6. Healthy Waterways, Brisbane.
Noosa and District Landcare 2017, Assessment of barriers to fish passage in the Noosa River catchment (Draft).
N&DL, Pomona.
Noosa and District Landcare, Noosa Council, Healthy Land and Water, Noosa Biosphere Reserve
Foundation (2018), Kin Kin Catchment Cats Claw Creeper Vine Management Strategy 2018-23. N&DL,
Pomona.
Noosa Noosa and District Landcare, Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee, Healthy Land and
Water (2017), Noosa Shire Waterways Assessment. N&DL, Pomona.
Noosa Integrated Catchment Association (2001), Noosa River Catchment Management Strategy. NICA,
Noosaville.
Noosa Council (2006), Guidelines for Establishment of New Businesses on the Noosa River. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council and Queensland Government Departments of Natural Resources and Mines, Environmental
Protection Agency, Department of Primary Industries, Queensland Transport (2004), Noosa River Plan. NC,
Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2014), Submission to Queensland Fisheries Management Review. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2015), Noosa Shire Local Economic Plan. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2016), Community Jury Recommendations on Managing the Noosa River. Ordinary Meeting
14/01/16. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa River Plan l Page 65
Section 66
Noosa Council, (2017) Noosa River Management. Ordinary Meeting 19/01/17. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2017), Noosaville Foreshore – Commercial Jetty Leases & Encroachments onto Community Land.
Ordinary Meeting 16/03/17.
Noosa Council (2016), Submission to the Green Paper on Fisheries Management Reform in Queensland. NC,
Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2017), Policy: Climate Change Response. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2018), Sport and Active Recreation Plan. NC, Tewantin.
Phillips J.(2006), Drifting blooms of the endemic filamentous brown alga Hinksia sordida at Noosa on the sub-
tropical east Australian coast. Marine Pollution Bulletin. 52 962-968.
Queensland Wetlands Program (2017), Walking the Landscape – Noosa Catchment Summary. Department of
Environment & Heritage Protection, Brisbane.
SEQ Catchments, Roads and tracks. Erosion solutions for the Lockyer Valley. SEQ Catchments Ltd., Brisbane.
T
State of Queensland (2017), Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017 – 2027. Department of
Agriculture and Fisheries. Brisbane.
F
Sunshine Coast Council (2009), Noosa River Marine Zone - New Rules Apply brochure. SCC, Nambour.
A
The Nature Conservancy (2015), Report to The Thomas Foundation & Noosa Parks Association on Assessment of
aquatic restoration & management options for Noosa Estuary & Lakes.
R
The Nature Conservancy and Ecological Service Professionals (2015), Restoration of Noosa Estuary: An
Assessment of Oyster Recruitment.
Thurstan Dr Ruth T.(2015), Historical ecology of the Noosa Estuaries fisheries. School of Biological Sciences
D
and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies. The University of Queensland.
Page 66 l Noosa River Plan
Section 67
Bibliography
Dekker (2011), Remote Sensing of algal blooms with emphasis on Hincksia sordida for South East Queensland
coast: A feasibility study. Healthy Waterways Brisbane, Australia.
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (2009), Ecosystem Services Key Concepts and
Applications, Occasional Paper Series No. 1. Australian Government, Canberra.
Department of Environment, Economic Development and Innovation (2010), FarmFLOW Grazing Land
Management ‘1234’ practice framework for South East Queensland. The State of Queensland, Brisbane.
Department of Environment, Economic Development and Innovation (2010), FarmFLOW SEQ Horticulture
Management Practices ‘ABCD’ framework. The State of Queensland, Brisbane.
Department of Environment & Heritage Protection (2017), Queensland Indigenous Land & Sea Grant Program
2017-18 Guidelines. Queensland Government, Brisbane.
Gold Coast Waterways Authority (2014), Gold Coast Waterways Management Strategy 2014-23.
T
Queensland Government, Brisbane.
International Association for Public Participation (2000-04), Techniques to share information. The IAP2 Public
F
Participation Toolbox.
Noosa Council (2015), Information Pack – Noosa River Community Jury. NC, Tewantin.
A
Noosa Council (2016), Agriculture and Agricultural Land in Noosa Shire. NC, Tewantin.
R
Noosa Council (2018), Climate Change Adaptation Plan, 2018 (Draft). NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2016), Environmental Management Policy - Organisational Policy. NC, Tewantin.
D
Noosa Council (2017), Brown Algae on Noosa Main Beach factsheet. NC, Tewantin.
Noosa Council (2017), Investigation of stormwater pollution in Noosaville Industrial Area. Report to the
Planning & Environment Committee Meeting Agenda 11/07/17. 66-78.
Noosa Council (2017), Noosa River Management. Report to the Planning & Environment Committee Meeting
Agenda 16/01/17.
Resilient River Initiative (2016), Lockyer Catchment Action Plan 2015-18. Council of Mayors, Healthy
Waterways, Unitywater, Queensland Government, Qld Urban Utilities, Seqwater, SEQ Catchments.
Rottnest Island Authority (2014), Boating Management Strategy. The Government of Western Australia. Perth.
SEQ Catchments (2016), Managing Natural Assets for a prosperous South East Queensland. SEQ Catchments
Ltd., Brisbane.
Sunshine Coast Council (2009), Migratory and Resident Shorebirds and Terns brochure. SCC Nambour.
Noosa River Plan l Page 67
Section 68
PO Box 141 Tewantin QLD 4565 P (07) 5329 6500 | F (07) 5329 6501 [email protected] | www.noosa.qld.gov.au