Wednesday, 17 October 2007
Hinze Dam Stage 3 gets EIS approval by State

Gold Coast City Council today received State Government approval for the proposed $395 million Hinze Dam Stage 3 project.

Mayor Ron Clarke said the Coordinator-General’s completion of the dam’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process and approvals report was great news for the city.

The Coordinator-General’s report was also sent today to the Federal Government for assessment under the Environmental Project and Biodiversity Conservation Act. 

Cr Clarke said Council was now looking forward to project approval from the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Water.   

“Once approval is secured, we can then push the button and go flat out on the project - hopefully before the end of the year,” he said.

“We look forward to realising the project benefits of flood mitigation and increased water supply capacity when the project is finished in late 2010.”

The Stage 3 project will be delivered by Council in partnership with the Hinze Dam Alliance comprising Thiess Pty Ltd, Sinclair Knight Merz and URS.

Cr Clarke said: “The project has undergone a very thorough environmental approvals and community consultation process.

“The EIS report has identified mitigation measures to reduce construction related impacts on local residents around the dam site.”

Cr Clarke said the Hinze Dam Alliance would take all reasonable steps to exceed the requirements of the approval conditions placed on the project.
Hinze Dam Alliance Manager, Mr Dale Gilbert, said the Alliance was committed to implementing comprehensive environmental management plans.

EIS studies have investigated potential construction impacts on plants and animals, continued quality water supply, traffic and access to boat ramps during construction.

According to Mr Gilbert, the Alliance has also undertaken a number of studies including noise sampling, traffic surveys, flood modelling and environmental field surveys.

“The Alliance is looking to provide compensatory areas for those areas that are covered by water after construction is complete,” said Mr Gilbert.

“The compensatory habitat package of at least 318 hectares of land aims to provide tangible conservation and biodiversity benefits at a local and city-wide level. .

“In addition, the construction team plans to work in sensitive areas as a priority to help get the rehabilitation process underway.

“We also plan to re-establish recreational areas and road infrastructure within the immediate area following construction and we’ll be taking cuttings from some local plants to assist with conservation.”

Community members are encouraged to FreeCall 1800 993 413 or visit hinzedamstage3.com or goldcoastcity.com.au/hinzedamstage3 for more project related information.

Coordinators-General's Report - Hinze Dam Stage 3 Project

For further information, please phone Gary Stubbs on:
P 5581 7748
M 0424 778 944 
E gstubbs@goldcoast.qld.gov.au