Miner Cape Alumina to move on Steve Irwin's land

BAUXITE miner Cape Alumina is preparing to mine the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve on Cape York after pre-poll promises by Queensland Premier Campbell Newman that he would repeal Wild Rivers legislation.

Wilderness Society spokesman Glenn Walker said yesterday the company was moving to kick-start mining prospects in the remarkable Wenlock River area on Cape York.

This was based on Mr Newman's promise that in his first 100 days in office he would begin winding back Labor's conservation legislation.

"The Wilderness Society is aware that the company last week listed an investor presentation on the ASX website noting that the new Queensland LNP Government would soon repeal the Wild River declaration for the Wenlock River," Mr Walker said.

The Cape Alumina bauxite project northeast of Weipa has been hotly opposed by scientists, conservationists and Murris because of unusual springs and for its proximity to the Wenlock River which has more fish species than any other in Australia.

Labor enlarged setback provisions for the mine to protect the river and springs but Cape Alumina has argued that mining can go ahead much closer to the water bodies without causing environmental harm.

Ironically, former prime minister John Howard had conservation in mind when he used taxpayer funds to help buy the property for Australia Zoo owner Terri Irwin and family after her husband Steve Irwin died in 2006.

No Cape Alumina spokesman could be contacted for comment but the investor presentation carries the headline "Wenlock Wild River declaration to be lifted".