In what he describes as a win-win, both agriculture and the environment in the Burdekin will benefit from a funding boost to Regional Natural Resource Management groups according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Mr Last announced the funding, which delivers on an election commitment, in his role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines but said he was equally as proud of what would be achieved within the Burdekin electorate.

“This funding confirms the Crisafulli government’s focus on ensuring great outcomes for the environment while protecting our landscapes,” Mr Last said.  “By working with the Natural Resource Management groups, we’ve identified and funded programs that find the balance between what is sometimes seen as competing interests.”

“For example, programs based around controlling invasive species have an obvious environmental benefit but also play a part in improving grazing land to ensure food production for a growing population.  By taking a balanced approach, we ensure more people support the work being done and that means better outcomes.”

Mr Last hailed the announcement as a ‘fresh start’ when it comes to cooperatively addressing environmental issues while also ensuring the best value for taxpayers.

“Good government is about acting responsibly rather than picking sides or just throwing money at an issue,” he said.  “The Crisafulli government committed to taking action within 100 days of the election and we have done that while ensuring real outcomes and accountability.”

“This funding is a significant boost, but it is based on the proven track record of the regional Natural Resource Management organisations and tied to practical outcomes being achieved.  We are also working with indigenous groups to boost programs like Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers in recognition of their connection with the land and to create opportunities for future generations.”

“We are taking a strategic approach that is based on the best available science and also recognises the know-how of landholders who, in some cases, have knowledge that stretches across multiple generations.  That balanced approach where we focus on good outcomes for both the environment and primary industry means we have access to a wider pool of knowledge so that we can actually find suitable solutions instead of demonising primary producers like we saw under the previous government.”

“We’ve taken the politics out of this issue because, especially in areas like the Burdekin, people want to see practical outcomes, not grandstanding.  Too much time has been lost arguing over who is to blame and I look forward to seeing the positive results that this funding will have for our key industries and for our environment.”