Petition against sand quarry gains steam

Cooya Beach Community Action

Bryan Littlely

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Linc Walker says the proposed sand quarry must be stopped to prevent "devastating" environmental impacts. Picture: Bryan Littlely
The proposal for a sand quarry on Bonnie Doon Road, Cooya Beach. Pictured: Change.org Petition

A petition opposing the development of a large-scale sand quarry on Bonnie Doon Road into Cooya Beach has garnered 234 signatures in just a few days, with those behind it calling for Douglas Shire Council to reject the development application for the sand quarry.

The petition highlights significant environmental and community concerns with residents who have voiced their support through comments and signatures.

Bernard Nagan, the petitioner, whose family home is less than 50m from the boundary of the proposed quarry says “This proposed sand quarry threatens not only the character of our rural community but also poses serious environmental risks to the wetlands vital to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji People.

“We must protect our land and heritage from such developments,’’ he added.

Protecting the land and consulting with traditional owners who have the knowledge of the fragile environment is something Linc Walker of Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours says must be front of mind when assessing such applications.

“But they have so far completely ignored us and there has been no consultation,’’ Mr Walker said.

“They have done a cultural survey… but they have not spoken to us.’’

“This has to be stopped.

“The mangrove trees (down flow from the proposed quarry) are the biggest carbon grabber in the world… it’s just recovered but one flood through a quarry would devastate them and the seagrasses out there.

“The fishing industry should be very worried about this proposal.”

One petition supporter shared, "This is an unacceptable, wildly irresponsible proposal and one that needs to be quashed immediately.

“We live nestled between two world heritage listed parks, and we need to be doing everything we can to keep our sea and land as pristine and untouched as possible.

“The stretch of land from Port Douglas to Cooya is already being used for fish farming and local waste disposal (Killaloe tip). We do not want further environmental degradation of our home.

“We need Council to get firmer about these kinds of proposals so we become known as guardians of our precious ecosystems.".

The petition is urging the Mayor and Councillors of the Douglas Shire Council to reject the development application for the sand quarry, which is seen as inconsistent with the area's zoning and planning schemes.

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