Water reserves for North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)

The State government is considering a proposal to establish two new water reserves on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).

Water no longer required for sand mining

Sand mining finished on the island in 2019. Water licenses for mining have expired, or are about to. The total annual volume previously available to mining since the 1970’s was 61,190 megalitres. This volume has been determined as sustainable.

Two new water reserves

It is now proposed to split that volume into two new water reserves.

One reserve, totalling up to 30,595 megalitres would be released for the social and economic benefit of the Quandamooka people. This includes ongoing land rehabilitation and commercial activities.

The second reserve also up to 30,595 megalitres would be to preserve the unique water-related environmental and cultural values of the island.

This proposal is consistent with the Water Act purpose for sustainable water management in Queensland. This includes the recognition of the interests of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders and their connection with water resources.

A new groundwater model

The department will be developing a new groundwater model that will include hydrological, climate, cultural and ecological information. This will give us a more complete understanding of how these reserves should be managed.

Existing water licenses and rights

This proposal will not affect any existing water licenses or rights to take water from the island. This includes stock and domestic use, drinking water supply, or commercial operations. It also includes the rights of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders to take water for cultural purposes.

Public consultation

Consultation on the discussion paper (PDF, 163.2KB) closed on 20 October 2023.