MEDIA RELEASE
Community group challenges Council approval to protect Currunda Creek and cassowary habitat
A newly formed community group, Redlynch Valley Action Inc., is challenging Cairns Regional Council’s approval of the proposed Currunda Trades and Services Development at 626R Redlynch Intake Road.
Local resident and appellant Janine Hall has lodged an appeal in the Planning & Environment Court, backed by the new group’s members (Appeal No 35/25).
The development would carve up 36 hectares of land through which flows Currunda Creek, a sensitive floodplain and biodiversity corridor. The property is also home to endangered southern cassowaries, whose presence has been confirmed on the site.
“This project strips away vital protections in CairnsPlan 2016, including the Flood and Inundation Overlay and Natural Areas Overlay,” Ms Hall said.
“By deferring assessments of flooding, stormwater, traffic, and ecology to later stages, Council has denied the community its right to have a say on these crucial matters.”More than 260 local submissions opposed the development when it was publicly notified in 2024. Concerns included flood safety, traffic congestion, loss of wildlife habitat, and impacts on the World Heritage–listed mountain backdrop and Currunda Creek.
Fact Sheet
| Land Zoning | Rural (CairnsPlan 2016) |
| Overlays removed | Flood, Natural Areas, Bushfire, Hillslopes, Landscape Values, |
| Ecological Significance | Confirmed cassowary presence, biodiversity corridor along Currunda Ck |
| Community Opposition | 260+ submissions lodged against development |
| Planning Concerns | Precautionary approach ignored, assessments deferred |
About Redlynch Valley Action Inc.
Redlynch Valley Action Inc. is a community-led group formed to protect Currunda Creek, its floodplain, and surrounding natural areas. We advocate for transparent planning processes, proper ecological assessment, and the protection of endangered wildlife habitats. Learn more at www.redlynchvalleyaction.org.au.
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