Fear of sewerage spill at Port Hinchinbrook Marina

7/1/2013

Green water Port Hinchinbrook marina near sewerage outfall

There has been a long history of sewage treatment non-compliance by the developer of "Port Hinchinbrook".

Prior to this recent episode, the developer had already been breached and fined several times for non-compliance. Until QDEH has laboratory test results (due this week) that would comprise "legal" evidence that raw sewage has been discharged into the marina, it can do no more.

This latest episode has occurred at a time when a "normalisation" scheme (contents not public) is being proposed by Andrew Cripps (MP Member for Hinchinbrook and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines) and Queensland's Coordinator-General.

We understand that the Cassowary Coast Regional Council has not yet been involved.

Residents have mixed views, but generally want the Council to take over much of the development maintenance despite the clear contractual arrangement (eg Deed of Agreement) that the Shire rate payers would not be burdened by maintenance or roads, sewage treatment, water supply etc.

Dead Crabs - Port Hinchinbrook marina near sewerage outfall

(Photos by Port Hinchinbrook residents).

Why should the community pour good money into an "ailing development"?

MEANWHILE - SOME GOOD NEWS:

Congratulations are due to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, which has refused the 2012 Stage II Application for rural residential estate and spoil ponds handover to Port Hinchinbrook Services.

Best wishes for a Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters.

Margaret Moorhouse
ASH