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Community Biodiversity Reference Group

The Community Biodiversity Reference Group provides information and inputs into the whole-of-Council direction in relation to development, biodiversity and koala management. Council however may also choose to undertake broad community engagement on issues to utilise advice from this group in the development of engagement instruments, processes and consideration of feedback including officer recommendations.

The following stakeholder groups are represented:

  • private planners
  • developers
  • builders
  • land care group
  • koala groups
  • business
  • community
  • agriculture - farmers and graziers
  • fauna and flora
  • riparian and riverine specialist groups
  • coastal and marine environment specialist groups
  • Gympie Regional Council.

Council has a clear position that it wants to manage the balance of biodiversity and development in a manner that is driven by community partnership. To achieve an outcome that is owned by the community Council will promote its vision to developers, builders, business, the community and Government agencies.

The objectives of the reference group is to:

  • encourage engagement on issues of biodiversity across the Gympie Council area
  • seek out issues, advice and feedback on matters relating to the development of a Biodiversity Strategy
  • provide focus on the importance and relevance of biodiversity across the region 
  • encourage sustainable development in respect to economic, social and environmental outcomes
  • provide direction to the new Planning Scheme considerations on matters of biodiversity
  • support community partnerships that foster sustainability and biodiversity outcomes.

Meetings are held on a regular basis as set by Council. It is expected there are 4-6 meetings per annum. Reference group members may also be asked to provide feedback on issues through email requests.

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