Preventing coral damage from anchors is one of issues being tackled by the newly formed Bowen/Burdekin Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) following a field trip to Horseshoe Bay recently.

Committee member and local dive operator Ann Mecklam invited Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) staff to inspect the bay's fringing reef which boasts good coral cover just a short swim from the beach.

"We are concerned about the damage to the fringing reef from Cyclone Yasi, however our inspection confirmed that the reef is starting to recover,” Ms Mecklam said.

GBRMPA’s Field Management Director Richard Quincey said the easy access also meant that these fringing reefs needed to be carefully looked after.

"It’s terrific to see such a strong sense of stewardship in the local community,” Mr Quincey said.

Bowen/Burdekin LMAC Chair elect Ivan Garrod, said he was pleased that the Marine Park Authority had already taken a keen interest in issues raised by their members.

“The advisory committee first met in August — with a diverse group of members who bring a range of expertise and community views to the table, Mr Garrod said.

“The issue of anchors damaging coral will be a topic to discuss at future meetings. We believe there is scope for more education to reduce the incidents of accidental anchoring on coral, and anchor drag.

“The advisory committee is a great opportunity for people with an interest in the Great Barrier Reef to have their say on local issues, and I encourage Bowen and Burdekin residents to nominate or simply come along to our next meeting to see how it all works."

The Bowen/Burdekin Local Marine Advisory Committee meets every two months and alternates meeting venues between Ayr and Bowen.  The next meeting is scheduled for 7 November 2012 at 6.30pm at the Bowen Surf Lifesaving Club, The Esplanade, Queens Beach Bowen.

The Bowen/Burdekin LMAC is the newest of 12 committees from Cape York to Bundaberg that provide input to GBRMPA on marine issues. The committee covers the coastal and inland area extending from Haughton River in the north to Yeates Creek in the south and includes Giru, Ayr and Bowen communities.