PM Submission - Helen MacKenzie - MCU22/0118

Subject: MCU 22/0118 - Is the RACV site development appropriate, in light of the threat to Noosa wild koalas?
From: Helen &/or Gordon MacKenzie
Date: 2023-02-05T21:24:58+00:00
To: Mailbox Council Mail

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I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed RACV development and the ways in which SARA’s observations and questions have been responded to.

SARA set the tone extremely succinctly from the outset, stating :

“Based on the information submitted with the application material, it is recommended the applicant consider whether development of the site is appropriate, considering the current threats facing koalas in South-East Queensland “.

Indeed, the appropriateness of this development and others ought to be considered in the context of the endangered species that is the SEQ wild koala.

Notwithstanding the cogent points SARA raised about the application’s failure to demonstrate understanding of:

•         Koala movement and avoidance of habitat- and corridor- fragmentation and the introduction of impediments

•         Mitigation of bushfire threat

•         And the conflict between the two, knowing that vegetation is always supposed to be kept well clear of habitation units.

The changes made to the application in responding to SARA’s requests are considered minor by the planning team.  What an arrogant remark.

The idea of covenanting tree removal has been rejected. This is despite the fact that the elevated accommodation and bushfire threat risk could ultimately lead to the inevitable removal of trees currently proposed as being untouchable. Threats to life and property always seem to end up taking precedence over species’ protection.

It is shameful that the vine has been allowed to take over to the extent that it has.  However, it is quite curious how this vine (hitherto unmentioned) has now become the major focus of attention and moreover, whose allegedly expensive removal and management has become something which RACV has offered to pay for.

Does that sound like a proposition – “Let us develop, we’ll pay to keep the vine under control”?

Does Noosa really need a development that leaves us with yet another 3-tree wide nature strip and a devastated corridor of koala habitat?


Helen MacKenzie

501 The Ridge, 61 Noosa Springs Drive                                                                                                                    Noosa Heads, QLD 4567