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CHAS
A Report identifying Hinchinbrook coastal areas at risk of exposure to coastal hazards and quantifying the scale of those risks determined through modelling storm tide, coastal erosion and predicted inundation from sea level rise, was tabled before Council at its meeting held on 28 April 2020.
The Hinchinbrook Coast 2100 Hinchinbrook Shire Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy (CHAS) Phase 3 Report prepared by GHD Pty Ltd is part of a Queensland Government initiative (QCoast2100), to assess the potential impacts of coastal hazards related to a defined set of climate change parameters predicted by the State.
Regardless of whether one believes in climate change or not, Queensland Government Policy now dictates that Local Governments have a legal obligation to plan for the forecast impact of climate change into the future. The Study will assist and inform Council on approaches to minimise risks to existing infrastructure and properties; new development in areas expected to be at risk from coastal hazards, both now and through to the year 2100; and look to protect intangible assets such as environmental, social and cultural values.
The Study is funded by the Queensland Government through the QCoast2100 program. For more information about the QCoast2100 Program or the CHAS, please visit www.qcoast2100.com.au.
A copy of the report may be found on Council’s website Meetings and Minutes.
Converting Lucinda Groynes to Rock
At its meeting held 28 April 2020 Council was informed that to convert the existing sand bag groynes at Lucinda to rock would cost in the vicinity of $2 million.
Pre-lodgement advice received from the Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDMIP) advised that a development approval is required for this conversion and that a number of matters, including an environmental impact study and coastal processes modelling, would need to be addressed in order to progress.
The issue was investigated following concern raised by Lucinda Progress Association as to cost effectiveness of continuing to utilise sand bags as groynes into the future, due to propensity for damage.
The recent sand bag refurbishment works completed in 2019 cost $292,690 (Excl. GST). This was the first significant refurbishment of the sand bag groynes since their original construction in 2001-2002 where Council replaced the existing timber groynes with six sand bag groynes. In 2005 an additional two were constructed. The purpose of the groynes are to capture sand movement to remediate against shore line erosion.
Council resolved to defer further consideration of the matter pending finalisation of the Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy.
Passing of Former Councillor Shirley Kuchler
It is with sadness that Council heard of the passing of Shirley Kuchler a well-known and respected identity who served as a Councillor on the Hinchinbrook Shire from 1979 to 1985.
It is recalled that in an era of male domination to elected positions, Shirley held her own and achieved her objectives more often than not. Shirley’s invaluable service to the Hinchinbrook community with the various sporting and community organisations, particularly her dedication and drive for aged care in our community, will be dearly missed.
As a community, we acknowledge and remember the generous and valuable contributions made by Shirley.
LDMG Recovery Sub-Groups Activated
The Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group met on Thursday 30 April 2020 and among other matters, resolved to activate the Social and Economic Recovery Sub Groups of the Shire to facilitate recovery processes addressing the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The purpose of Recovery Sub Groups is to coordinate, facilitate and assist in supporting disaster affected communities towards recovery. We know that there are tough times happening in the community and as a Council we have endeavoured to determine the issues and where possible publication and distribution of information of assistance measures.
The sub groups will continue that work, collate and identify gaps and where possible work to resolve arising issues.
Rate and other relief measures for affected ratepayers have been approved and Council will look towards other relief mechanisms through 2020-2021 budgeting processes. But please do not wait – if you are having a problem and are in need of assistance ring Council now.
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