QWI has been conducting ongoing geotechnical investigations at the Traveston Crossing Dam site since 2006.
The geotechnical activities are for investigatory purposes and will not leave any permanent structures. QWI has proactively engaged with stakeholders including the State and Federal Government, as well as placing advertisements in the Gympie Times to keep the local community informed about such activities.
An access track has also been established to ensure safe access for drill rigs of up to 20 tonnes to conduct these investigations. The track is not on the alignment of the future Traveston Crossing Dam Access Road and is not to the same design specifications of any such road.
There have been a number of allegations made in the media and by elected members in regards to construction having commenced at the Traveston Crossing Dam site.
QWI takes it obligations under the State and Federal legislation very seriously, and has fully complied with the letter of the law in undertaking these investigations.
Following allegations raised, an officer from Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts visited the site on 17 November 2008. The Department have advised QWI that it has found no evidence to support claims of an offence under S74AA of the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Attached below are links to documents that relate to this issue. This includes information provided to the Gympie Times, a media release distributed by the Premier's Office, and statements made by elected members in Hansard.
Letter to the Editor - Gympie Times (18 November 2008)
Media Statement - Gympie Times (14 November 2008)
Media Release - Premier Corrects Maryborough MP's Traveston inaccuarcies (14 November 2008)
Statement by Senator Bob Brown (Hansard p60, 12 November 2008)
Statement by Chris Foley MP (Hansard p3559, 13 November 2008)