The process explained
Moreton Bay Marine Park stretches 125 kilometres from Caloundra to the Gold Coast Seaway and covers approximately 3,400 square kilometres. It is one of Queensland's three large marine parks and is unique in its proximity to an Australian capital city. It supports the social, economic and cultural fabric of south-east Queensland and is a world-class setting for the region's 2.77 million people to enjoy.
The current Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan was implemented in 1997. It is due to expire on 1 September 2008 and must be reviewed before this date.
Stages of the review process
The aim of the zoning plan review is to conserve the unique values of Moreton Bay Marine Park and to provide for its sustainable use, now and for the future. The review is a staged process and from the outset there will be extensive consultation and negotiation with community groups, industry organisations and individuals.
No targets have been set for levels of protective zoning (or any other zones) to be achieved in this process. There are no pre-determined outcomes for the process. The draft and final zoning plans will be based on the latest available scientific information, and will consider all relevant social and economic data.
Stage 1 - Information gathering and data analysis
The first stage will gather and analyse information until mid-2007.
The knowledge and experience of local communities and the groups that use the marine park is extremely important to the review. Local expertise will add to and help verify existing data. Some of the data already collected includes habitat types, threatened species, major industries, water quality, recreational fishing, commercial fisheries, tourism, coastal developments and cultural sites.
During stage one, the community will be asked for information relating to how they use and value Moreton Bay Marine Park. A survey has been set up on the department website for the community to provide this information (refer to section 'How to get involved' for more details). Meetings with key groups and community display days will also be used to raise awareness of the review and the processes for becoming involved.
An expert advisory panel has been convened to provide input and guidance, and ensure the scientific rigour of the review process. This will be chaired by Professor Paul Greenfield AO, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Queensland. A stakeholder reference group that will provide community and industry perspectives has also been convened, with representatives from a wide range of key groups. Both these panels will be meeting regularly throughout stage one.
A draft zoning plan will only be produced once a full analysis of all available information has taken place.
Stage 2 - Formal public consultation
The draft zoning plan will be released in the latter half of 2007. A formal community consultation phase will follow, lasting at least two months. Submissions which provide details and explanations about why people agree or disagree with particular proposals will be sought at this time. Detailed submissions are the best way for people to make their views known.
During stage two, there will be widespread media publicity, invitations to submit comments online or by brochure, distribution of information sheets and face to face meetings.
Ongoing consultation with key user groups will occur throughout stage two. Formal comments received during stage two will be collated and analysed to produce the final zoning plan.
Stage 3 - Final zoning plan released
The final zoning plan will be announced in 2008. A series of community training and education programs will be conducted prior to the final plan being implemented on 1 September 2008. Information about the new zoning arrangements will be widely distributed.
New maps, brochures, guides and regulations will outline what the revisions are, and what they mean for marine park users.
How to get involved
Fill out our online survey form and tell us how you use and value the marine park.
You can also email us at moreton.bay@epa.qld.gov.au or freecall 1800 105 789.
A series of community display days will take place throughout the process. These display sessions will also be advertised in local Quest newspapers.
Last updated: 19 October 2008
Related information
Anyone with an interest in Moreton Bay Marine Park is encouraged to become involved in its zoning plan review.
PDF for printing
purposes (435 kB)
