MILESTONE agreements have been signed as part of the efforts to help North Stradbroke Island transition from sand mining.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad signed a statement of intent for the state government, alongside sand mining company Sibelco and the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, committing to maintaining employment and investment on the island following the end of sand mining.
Ms Trad said she had witnessed the signing of a five-year memorandum of understanding between QYAC and the University of Queensland to boost research, education, training and employment opportunities.
"Sand mining on Minjerribah is ending but Sibelco's role as a major employer and supporter of the island's community and its economy will continue," Ms Trad said.
"Over the next decade, Sibelco will work closely with QYAC to rehabilitate the environment harnessing the knowledge and skills of traditional owners.
"This agreement ensures the Quandamooka people take their rightful place caring for Quandamooka country while transitioning the island's economy."
Ms Trad said the statement of intent ensured all parties would work together to create jobs and training opportunities on the island, and safeguard cultural heritage.
"The Queensland government plays a leading role, providing re-training to help workers get the skills they need, as well as assisting the transition of the economy to eco and cultural tourism, education and research by delivering the 23 projects in the $33.62 million North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Economic Transition Strategy," she said.
QYAC chief executive officer Cameron Costello said the agreements would bring opportunities like jobs and education for Quandamooka people and ensure a culturally appropriate approach to sustainability and the protection of Quandamooka.
Sibelco Australia chief executive officer Tom Cutbush said the change to rehabilitation when sand mining was phased out on Straddie by the end of the year would create new opportunities for its workforce.
He said Sibelco would collaborate with the government and QYAC to undertake rehabilitation in areas that had been mind.
"Sibelco will continue to invest in the Minjerribah economy through our rehabilitation activities for years to come supporting the transition to a post-mining Minjerribah economy," Mr Cutbush said.
UQ Provost Professor Aidan Byrne said the partnership with QYAC would combine UQ's research and teaching expertise with the unique knowledge and perspectives of the Quandamooka traditional owners.
"It will give UQ students and researchers opportunities for study, work experience, internships, and job placements within QYAC programs," Professor Byrne said.
