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An Island is not an Island: A Green Precinct in the Great Barrier Reef

Wide Bay Water Corporation

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Achievements

Status

Water and energy efficiency programs are being undertaken by all three of the island's residents including the Heron Island Resort, Department of Environment and Resource Management's (DERM) Rangers Station, and the University of Queensland's Heron Island Research Station.

The water improvements include:

• retrofitting water fixtures on the island with 7.5 L/min devices on showers, 6 L/min on hand basin taps, and 9 L/min on all common area (kitchens etc) taps
• replacing drinking water and wastewater meters on the island in a partnership with Heron Island Resort
• finding and fixing leaking taps across the island.

The energy improvements at the Heron Island Resort include installing:

• energy management controllers on air conditioners installed in staff areas
• more efficient LED lighting
• improved controls in cold rooms
• energy efficiency ceiling fans in all suites and accommodation units
• replacing two 2.0 kW pool pumps with two 0.75 kW pumps.

A 54.6 kW photovoltaic solar array was installed on three of the research station's buildings. The 260 panels went live on 25 August 2010.

Community engagement

The project will highlight the benefits of reducing water and energy use in the vulnerable and unique environment of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef.

The project will engage not only visitors and residents of Heron Island, but provide a sustainability model to the Great Barrier Reef region and the wider tourism industry.

Wide Bay Water Corporation has undertaken detailed discussions and site visits with the Fraser Coast Anglican College science department. The two will work closely together to develop an educational program and presentations. It is anticipated that the program will be extended to the general public in the near future.