Biosphere Success!

The Great Sandy region was today declared as a Biosphere reserve.

At its meeting in Korea, UNESCO’s International Co-ordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere program today resolved to accept the nomination.

The decision means that residents of Gympie, Maryborough, Hervey Bay, and nearby areas including Fraser Island now live in the “Great Sandy Biosphere” reserve.

The 370 page nomination was submitted to UNESCO in September last year by the Burnett Mary Regional Group after approval from all levels of government.

Chairman of the Group, Russell Stewart, said he was delighted with the success of the nomination.

“It’s a real coup for our region and for Australia,” he said.

“It gives worldwide recognition of the outstanding natural beauty and high levels of biodiversity that we sometimes take for granted.”

The International Co-ordinating Council considered 35 nominations from throughout the world, but the Great Sandy Biosphere was the only one from Australia in this round.

Mr Stewart said that although the nomination process was a big job, the real challenge will be to implement the program.

“We now have to keep our promises and make sure the Great Sandy Biosphere becomes a model for sustainability.”

Mr Stewart said in the long term, the Man and the Biosphere program could expand in Australia.

“Our Group has a vision of a “green belt” of Biospheres across Eastern Queensland and Northern New South Wales, each with its own unique character, but working together towards sustainability,” he said.

Mr Stewart said the Group would move quickly to commence the implementation of the Biosphere program.

“To make it work, we will need to build on the trust and support already given to the nomination, especially from industry groups, tourism bodies, councils and community members.”

The decision has been welcomed by international conservation organisation Fauna and Flora International.

Mark Rose, CEO of Fauna & Flora International said “This award puts the Great Sandy firmly on the global conservation map.”

“From Humpback whales to Cooloola monsters, the new Biosphere is a jewel in the crown of Australia’s natural wonders and Fauna & Flora International congratulates the team behind the bid.”

Media contact: Communications Officer Carl Moller 07 41812999 or 0447550199 or carl.moller@bmrg.org.au

Chairman Russell Stewart 0415 672 558

High resolution photos and a map can be found at the following web address: www.sharky-web.com/bmrg/Biosphere/

DVD footage of the Biosphere region is also available.