Underwater cable causes concerns
A DEFUNCT underwater telephone cable located to the north of Bribie Island bridge has been labelled a marine hazard by residents who want it removed.
It is believed the Telstra-owned cable, established by PMG, has not been used for more than 20 years.
Bribie Island Marine Habitat Improvement Group spokesman Dave Barnett has had his fair share of run-ins with the cable.
Mr Barnett has argued over the years to have the cable removed but to no avail.
"The cable contains many fine copper wires," he said.
"Being toxic to marine growth, it will have a negative impact on the marine environment if the cable is left to rot away."
Mr Barnett said Bribie Island bridge surrounds were an attractive habitat for fish.
"Fisherman who anchor near the bridge to fish run the risk of catching their anchor on the cable."
To combat the hazard Marine Safety Queensland issued a notice to mariners instructing vessel masters not to anchor within 50 metres of the cable or risk a $200 on-the-spot fine.
Telstra was also aware of the situation and erected signs to warn boaters to steer clear of the cable.
Mr Barnett said the Australian Communications and Media Authority advised him there were no specific provisions in the Telecommunications Act for the removal of infrastructure.
Member for Longman Wyatt Roy was addressing the legislation shortfall with relevant parties.
Mr Roy said after receiving advice from Telstra he wrote to the Federal Communications and Environment minister on May 16 calling on them to investigate the issue further.
"They have yet to respond," he said.
Mr Barnett said he also wrote to State Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell to determine if the dumping of a copper cable in a marine environment contravenes any state environment legislation however Mr Powell was yet to respond.
Bribie Weekly was also in touch with Telstra about this issue.
At time of print Sunshine and central coasts area general manager Kris Carver said technicians were investigating the issue.
