signed up to be a Reef Guardian Council for the next four years, joining other councils to drive local action and support a healthy Great Barrier Reef.
The Reef Guardian Council program — a collaborative stewardship arrangement between local government in the Great Barrier Reef catchment and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority — recognises that local and regional approaches are central to protecting and managing the Reef and the communities it supports.
Mayor Peter Scott said he was committed to renewing the Council’s progressive partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Reef Guardian program.
“Cook Shire residents want to ensure our natural attractions are looked after, and to continue enjoying our world class boating and fishing by safeguarding the quality of water flowing into the Great Barrier Reef,” Mayor Scott said.
“Over the next four years we will continue to implement Reef Guardian initiatives including developing the Resilient Cape Strategic Plan, investigating solar power for council facilities, and reviewing waste management practices.”
The Authority’s Assistant Director for Strategic Engagement Doon McColl said the Cook region had an important role to play as a Reef champion and a leader of change.
“Cook Shire is the largest local government area in the state, covering more than 100,000 square km of Cape York Peninsula. It includes about one-third of the Great Barrier Reef’s coastline,” she said.
“That’s a huge area for the council to service, and a major responsibility. We’d like to thank the council for their continued support as partners in the Reef Guardian Council program.
“Their proactive approach assists both the Reef and our catchment communities.
“We hope the Reef Guardian Council program will help to spread the message that people taking action now – however small – will help the Reef. This is a mission for everyone, everywhere across the globe.”
