Claims Government trashed creek

AN ecologist says Education Queensland has trashed the environmental values of a Brisbane Creek after digging up part of a school oval.

Queensland Academies science, mathematics & Technology students. Residents are concerned at plans to add Years 7-9 to the campus. Picture: Glenn Hunt/The Australian

ECOLOGIST Iris Wild says Education Queensland has trashed the environmental values of Toowong Creek after digging up part of a school oval for a large shed.

EQ plans to double the size of the Queensland Academy for science, mathematics and Technology (QASMT), which currently takes only Years 10-12.

The plan to add students in Years 7-9 has angered neighbours, who were concerned at traffic, noise, and harm to the creek.

Ms Wild said a turtle became trapped in equipment after workers dug up earth and laid a concrete slab for the (approximately) 10m by 12m shed, where native fauna were known to nest.

“There was no sediment control plan and a number of trees were removed,’’ she said. “They bulldozed soil into the creek and it is concerning that noise and headlights from vehicles using the shed will shine into the creek at night.’’

Ms Wild said it was very disappointing the work had begun even before the expansion plan was formally sanctioned.

Other residents have previously complained about the limited public consultation on the proposal, the use of public money on a 100 per cent selective school and about potential traffic impacts on local streets.

Education Queensland did not respond to requests for comment.