A WORLD-class resort and residential project proposed for Hervey Bay will be a showcase of sustainable development that will set a new benchmark for the Fraser Coast region, according to the developer.
The planned resort, which if approved will operate as Sheraton Hervey Bay, will feature a raft of best practice environmental measures to ensure the Torquay beachfront project has minimal impact on both the local environment and the surrounding community.
The developer says measures will include the latest in lighting design technology, stormwater management systems, landscaping design and sustainable building methods, while the resort will also play a leading role in educating visitors about the importance of protecting coral reefs and aquatic species.
The project’s environmental credentials will complement the significant economic, employment and community benefits it will bring to the region, attracting new high spending tourists and helping to ease pressure on the Hervey Bay housing market.
Plans for an Australian-first themed snorkelling and dive facility have also been announced as part of a natural oasis that will form the centrepiece of the resort. The deep dive facility will teach visitors how to snorkel and dive in a realistic reef environment while adopting environmentally conscious behaviours.
Dan Cuda, director of development group Sunny Beach Land, said the Sheraton Hervey Bay, if approved, would gain global recognition as a destination resort showcasing the very best in sustainable development.
“We have a deep understanding of this region and the beautiful natural attractions that will make it a huge drawcard for international visitors once the Sheraton brand is introduced,” Mr Cuda said.
“So, it is absolutely in our best interests and those of the whole Fraser Coast community to ensure nothing we do jeopardises the environment they will come to enjoy.
“For that reason, we have also brought in highly respected landscape designer and environmentalist Jamie Durie to advise on the project and assist us with the natural and sustainable elements.”
As part of its Development Application, Sunny Beach Land commissioned a comprehensive expert environmental report on the potential impact of artificial light on sea turtles and shorebirds, covered under the Dark Sky Overlay Code in the Wide Bay Regional Plan.
The study by Emily Krunes, Director and Principal of Trend Environmental, found no recent or historical sea turtle records in the direct vicinity of the development.
Ms Krunes, an ecologist with almost 15 years’ experience, said it was essential to recognise and address the potential environmental impacts associated with a beachfront development, particularly any potential impacts on sea turtles due to artificial light.
“However, it is important to highlight that there needs to be a balance between development and environmental protection,” she said. “It is possible to have both, with a little innovative design and ensuring rigorous adherence to environmental standards.”
Ms Krunes said a sea turtle environmental impact study had been completed to assess the proposed development against the Dark Sky Overlay Code in the new Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan.
“This study confirmed that impacts on sea turtles can be effectively mitigated with the implementation of best practice light design, in accordance with the National Light Pollution Guideline for Wildlife,” she said.
“This guideline was developed by the Commonwealth Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water in consultation with numerous wildlife experts and has been endorsed by the International Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.
“The Sheraton Hervey Bay developers recognise the importance of protecting our wildlife and are committed to implementing an innovative light design that incorporates advanced LED technology that emits light at wavelengths less disruptive to sea turtles, alongside adaptive lighting controls and strategically directing lights away from the beachfront. These measures will ensure minimal contribution to artificial skyglow from the development.”
Ms Krunes also stressed that protecting the Great Barrier Reef and its diverse array of species should begin with education.
“By informing locals and tourists about the critical importance and delicate nature of these ecosystems, we empower them to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives and inspire them to dedicate themselves to the long-term protection of our coral reefs,” she said.
“One of the most transformative experiences the resort will offer is to teach visitors how to snorkel and dive in a realistic reef environment. This allows them to witness firsthand the stunning beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, an experience that can profoundly shift their perspective and encourage more environmentally conscious behaviours, without the associated impacts of tourists on the
reef itself. This will ultimately lead to better conservation outcomes for our reef.”