Breakwater walls in disrepair at Oyster Point
Photo © ASH

The Supreme Court has upheld Cardwell Shire Council’s Marine Parks permit to allow breakwater walls to be constructed at Keith Williams’ controversial Oyster Point development in the World Heritage listed Hinchinbrook Channel, despite allegations that the rock walls are sinking before they are even finished.

Concerned bodies

North Queensland WPSQ members, Alliance to Save Hinchinbrook (ASH) and the North Queensland Conservation Council are all concerned about the effects of the construction and other parts of the development on the environment in this sensitive and important area.

Oyster point issues

Breakwater walls breaking. The breakwater walls under construction at Oyster Point are falling into the deep soft silts of the Hinchinbrook Passage. The sinking of the breakwalls has used up rock far in excess of the estimate of rock required to build them, and in places has displaced the seabottom to the surface. (see images)

Wrong rock. More rock is being piled on the walls than originally estimated and this rock is fine particle material, which is putting water quality at risk, according to ASH.

Spoil ponds. ‘Temporary’ spoil ponds holding waste material from previous dredging are full. NQCC is concerned that sea dumping may be the next step.

Coastal forest under threat. The fate of 60ha of important coastal forest is in doubt, despite assurances from the Queensland Government that it will become part of the Girrigun NP, because there is evidence that deep channels are being excavated that resemble canal estate.

What you can do

• Contact ASH to find out more.
• Contact the Environment Minister Lindy Nelson Carr to ask for a statement about the EPA’s intentions for the site.

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