Waterways need protection

ENVIRONMENT Australia claims habitat loss caused by clearing for purposes of urban and coastal development is a major cause of biodiversity loss and that there are no vegetation types that remain completely undisturbed from the effects of human activity. Mayor Eddie Santagiuliana some years ago said he would seek discussions with government on how to extend the protection plan to areas north of Old Cleveland Road to help preserve essential pockets of koala habitat along creek lines in the Shire, and consultation with the Koala Conservation Council included $20 million to buy habitat, a $ 1 00,000 fine for breaking tree protection by-laws, tougher laws to control dogs, better road lighting and lower speeds.

This brings me to the mega hardware store Bunnings at Capalaba, which is about to have final approval by Council, (BB2/23) and that is being given access from several entrances. My objection lies with semi-trailers, trucks, etc using Anderson Street which is filled-in wetland on Coolnwynpin Creek, and the impact on an already polluted creek with a koala habitat behind John Fredericks Park at risk of losing habitat. Ale giant eucalypts used by koalas and birdlife on the proposed site will he lost due to the enormity of the development.

If the Mayor is serious about conservation of koalas in Koala Coast on Coolnwynpin and Tingalpa creeks, he will protect the waterway and allow community groups, with the help of government grants, to enhance and build on both sides of the creek with native trees as protection from man-made pollution which will be in keeping with what the community asked for during meetings conducted by Kinhill Cameron McNamara and I quote: "Capalaba's customers want Tingalpa and Coolnwynpin Creeks cleaned up. They want these enhanced with recreation facilities for families to use, and to he protected from roads, buildings and urban development."

Amy Glade, Capalaba

Bayside Bulletin Letters to the Editor 16 Mar 99

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