Councillor column - Councillor Andrew Carr May 26th

Hello Hinchinbrook,

‍

I would like to share an update regarding developments with the DETSI Environmental Disaster Recovery Unit, which is currently developing the Catchment Rehabilitation Program for the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low (NFNTL) severe weather event (29 January – 28 February 2025).

The DRFA North and Far North Tropical Low Environmental Recovery Program (NFNTL ERP) forms part of an exceptional circumstances package jointly agreed to and funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under Category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).  

‍

This program is designed to support recovery following this significant disaster event.

Funding will be prioritised for projects that adopt a whole-of-system approach to catchment rehabilitation, demonstrate strong stakeholder engagement, and foster collaborative partnerships.

‍

DRFA funding for the NFNTL ERP was approved by the Prime Minister on 16 July 2025. Any work undertaken prior to this date is not eligible under DRFA funding arrangements.

‍

The program aims to:

• Support recovery, improve environmental condition, and build resilience across impacted areas

• Protect catchments and associated ecological processes

• Ensure recovery actions do not create further environmental risks

• Prioritise locally led initiatives where possible

• Safeguard environmental assets for current and future generations

‍

Funding outcomes will support a strong, locally led approach to catchment rehabilitation, focused on improving the condition and resilience of impacted environments and ecological systems.

‍

Eligible activities must:

• Be delivered within an eligible LGA (including Hinchinbrook Shire)

• Target freshwater, estuarine, or marine environments impacted by the event

• Directly relate to the NFNTL severe weather event (29 January – 28 February 2025)

• Be completed by 30 June 2028

‍

Eligible activities may include:

• Erosion recovery works (bank stabilisation, revegetation, seeding)

• Exclusion fencing and off-stream watering points

• In-stream habitat restoration

• Weed and pest control in riverine and floodplain areas

• Biodiversity conservation for locally significant or threatened species

• Debris removal associated with catchment rehabilitation

• Cultural guidance and engagement in recovery activities

‍

Eligible applicants include River Improvement Trusts constituted under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940.

The Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) has currently identified more than 64 sites, with an estimated value of approximately $8.6 million. These sites have been inspected and costed, and many will be submitted for consideration under the DETSI Catchment Rehabilitation Program.

Once again, it is great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read about the events, initiatives and developments across our Shire.

‍