Planning for the future of St Helens Beach

Published: 08 Oct 2019

A draft local coastal plan (LCP) that sets a vision for the St Helens Beach coastline into the future, has been developed.

The plan is a key component of the Coasts and Communities Program, which council has been delivering in partnership with Reef Catchments since 2009.

The program aims to protect and restore the natural environment values of the Mackay coast, whilst allowing for appropriate recreational access and use.

Cr Karen May said the plan for St Helens Beach was part of a strategic and coordinated approach to managing the region’s coastlines.

“St Helens Bay boasts 2.5 kilometres of coastline, is an important shorebird roosting area and provides habitat for juvenile fish,” she said.

“We must do everything we can to protect and enhance this important environmental habitat.

“The plan recommends a variety of activities including weed management, revegetating the foreshore, investigating erosion management options and working with Traditional Owners to undertake cultural heritage surveys of the area.

“After successful consultation with the community on the McEwens Beach draft local coastal plan last month, we are hoping to have similar response for St Helens.”

Residents are invited to attend the community catch-up session on Friday, October 18, from 3pm to 5pm, at St Helens Beach Esplanade Reserve.

Those who can’t attend the session can also have their say online at Connecting Mackay.