QUEENSLAND regional councils will receive further vital support from the Department of Primary Industries to maintain essential infrastructure and safeguard native fish populations.
The Rural and Remote Council Fish Passage Support Team, established by Fisheries Queensland, is collaborating with councils to streamline waterway barrier projects.
This ensures roads, bridges and other transport infrastructure are delivered efficiently while protecting fish movement in local waterways.
The team has already achieved success, including helping Barcoo Shire secure approval for McPhellamys Crossing over Cooper Creek in Central West Queensland.
The team has also actively raised awareness of the service in partnership with the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) through meetings and events.
Fisheries Queensland executive director Dallas D’Silva said: “Fish habitats are integral to Queensland’s social, cultural, and economic fabric, contributing to what makes our state a great place to live.
“The free movement of fish is crucial for healthy ecosystems, biodiversity, and functioning wetlands.
“This service works alongside councils to develop cost-effective designs that support fish passage without delaying construction timelines.”
Barcoo Shire Council Mayor Sally O’Neil said the McPhellamy’s Crossing project was an important project for the region.
“By working together, this project demonstrates how state and local government can directly support both community and environmental needs whilst preserving our unique biodiversity and increasing the resilience of our waterways.”
For support, councils can contact the team via email at regionalsupport@daf.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 25 23.
