Council Seeks Community Feedback on draft Biosecurity Plan

Livingstone Shire Council is calling on residents to provide feedback on the draft Biosecurity Plan 2024-2029.

The plan outlines key strategies for managing invasive pests and prioritising the control of pest plants and animals across the Shire.

Development and Environment Committee Co-Chair Councillor Pat Eastwood said the plan aims to safeguard the environment, agricultural areas, and local communities by addressing current biosecurity risks.

“Introduced in 2019, the existing Biosecurity Plan will expire in December 2024,” Cr Eastwood said. 

“The updated version is being developed through extensive consultation with internal and external stakeholders and takes into account changing environmental conditions, advancements in technology, and recent regulatory updates.

“It also considers the ongoing impacts of climate change and urban development on the spread of invasive species.”

Development and Environment Committee Co-Chair Councillor Wade Rothery highlighted the importance of community involvement in shaping the plan.

“Livingstone Shire residents play a key role in identifying biosecurity issues that directly impact their properties and neighbourhoods,” Cr Rothery said. 

“The feedback we receive will help us build a stronger, more effective plan to protect our region from invasive pests over the next five years.”

Council is encouraging the community to review the draft Biosecurity Plan and participate by completing an online survey.

The consultation is an opportunity for residents to share their concerns and provide input on how best to address biosecurity risks within Livingstone Shire.

Residents can review the draft plan and provide their feedback on the Livingstone Shire Council’s Get Involved website until Tuesday, 15 October 5pm.

Visit https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/biosecurity-plan for more information. 

Hard copies of the draft plan and survey forms will be available for collection at Council’s Customer Support Centres at Yeppoon Town Hall on Normanby Street and Emu Park Library. 

Results from the survey will help shape the strategies and actions that will guide Council’s biosecurity efforts from 2024-2029.

The final plan will be presented for adoption by Council later this year.