THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP

MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

THE HON KRISTY MCBAIN MP

MEMBER FOR EDEN-MONARO

The Albanese Labor Government is cleaning up the Queanbeyan River in Eden-Monaro thanks to a $1,944,480 investment.

The funding is part of the Government’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program which is restoring rivers and waterways to better protect communities and native species.

This new project will clear woody and other weed species from two kilometres of the Queanbeyan River corridor, with the site being replanted with local native riparian species.

It will improve riparian habitat quality and connectivity for various native fauna including Platypus, waterbirds and aquatic species.

The works will be supported by a range of citizen science programs and community education and awareness-raising activities. The project will be delivered by the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek:

“We want to leave nature better off for our kids and grandkids – and that’s why we’re restoring rivers and waterways in our suburbs with a $200 million investment.

“Nearly half of all nationally listed threatened animals and a quarter of our threatened plants are in urban areas, home to 96 per cent of Australia’s population.

“And with so many native plants and animals reliant on our rivers, creeks, wetlands, and estuaries, protecting and restoring the health of our waterways is essential.

“This critical funding is good news for native wildlife and the community – improving the quality of the urban spaces that we all share and love.”

Quotes attributable to the Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain:

“I know this funding will make a huge difference towards the restoration of the Queanbeyan River and the community’s efforts to protect this much-loved waterway.

“This significant investment of up to $1,944,480 will ensure our kids and their kids can continue to enjoy this beautiful part of our local community for generations to come.

“I’m so proud to be delivering this funding – well done to the Council and Queanbeyan Landcare on their advocacy.”

Quotes attributable to Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor Kenrick Winchester:

“Thanks to the Australian Government for providing the funding to make this project possible.”

“This is a great opportunity for Council to rehabilitate the beautiful and much-loved Queanbeyan River through controlling woody weeds, native revegetation, and improving accessibility for the community.

“The Queanbeyan River is an important environmental corridor through our CBD and supports a wide range of native animals and plants – including our resident platypus.”