The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is inviting the community to have a say on an application to temporarily install and operate cyclone moorings near Hay Point.

McConnell Dowell Constructors (Australia) Pty Ltd and Geosea Australia Pty Ltd applied for permission to install and operate 18 temporary cyclone moorings to the east of Victor Island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

The moorings are intended for use during a cyclone event only.

The proposed operation of the cyclone moorings is associated with works at the Hay Point Coal Terminal Expansion Project (HPX3). On completion of the works, which is scheduled for July 2013, the moorings will be completely removed.

Under legislation, applications that may impact on the public's reasonable use of an area within the Marine Park must be subject to a rigorous assessment before any decisions are made.

Public consultation and input is a significant part of the assessment process.

Written comments on the proposal must be lodged with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority by 3 October 2011.

Further information on the proposal can be obtained from the applicant, McConnell Dowell Constructors (Australia) Pty Ltd and Geosea Australia Pty Ltd, on (07) 3421 8265, or from www.gbrmpa.gov.au.

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