Today’s long-awaited decision to ban new oil and gas in the Channel Country is a huge win for the region’s diverse wildlife and the future health of the Lake Eyre basin.
Conservationists have welcomed the decision by Premier Steven Miles, which follows years of opposition by Traditional Owners, graziers and environmentalists to oil and gas projects in the region.
Queensland Conservation Council Deputy Director Anthony Gough said:
“This is wonderful news for all Queenslanders who want to protect a healthy natural environment for future generations.
“Channel Country floodplains and rivers are among the world’s last remaining free flowing desert rivers.
“The natural boom and bust cycle of this landscape supports an incredible diversity of unique plants, birds and other wildlife.
“When the floods arrive the water spills across expansive floodplains and into hundreds of braided channels before finally reaching Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre to the south.
“This spectacular natural phenomenon has supported the livelihoods and culture of the region’s First Nations for time immemorial and today supports renowned productive and naturally irrigated grazing pastures and a growing tourism industry.
“The expansion of the oil and gas industry throughout the Channel Country would have placed at risk the region’s diverse ecology, as well as thousands of years of cultural connections held by Traditional Custodians of the area.
“This long-awaited decision will ensure that the Channel Country ecosystem remains intact, and the region remains protected for future generations of Traditional Owners and graziers.”
