Community Voices Shape Cherbourg’s Environmental Health Plan
The Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, in partnership with Darling Downs Health, hosted a community engagement event on Thursday, 13 June 2024, at the Cherbourg Community Hall. This event gave residents an opportunity to discuss their environmental health concerns and complete a survey that will help shape the Cherbourg Environmental Health Plan.
A total of 46 community members participated in the survey, sharing their insights on ten key environmental health topics. The results have revealed critical areas of concern that will be addressed in the upcoming plan:
🔹 Drinking Water – 50% of respondents were concerned about skin sores linked to water quality.
🔹 Wastewater – 32% found wastewater odour to be an issue.
🔹 Food Safety – 55% identified a lack of training for food handlers.
🔹 Pest Management – 75% expressed concerns about rats and mice.
🔹 Waste Management – 70% highlighted illegal dumping as a major problem.
🔹 Healthy Housing – 45% cited disease risks from rodents.
🔹 Animal Management – 68% raised issues about roaming dogs.
🔹 Caring for Country – 80% of respondents were concerned about littering.
🔹 Recycling – 100% of respondents felt there needs to be more education on what can be recycled.
🔹 Air Pollution – 53% were concerned about fires in public spaces such as landfill sites.
The results from this survey will play a critical role in developing the Cherbourg Environmental Health Plan, which will outline strategies to address these concerns. Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council and the Darling Downs Public Health Unit will continue to work with the community to ensure local voices guide the solutions.
Mayor Bruce Simpson emphasised the importance of the survey, stating:
“Listening to our community is the first step to real change. These results will help us make Cherbourg a healthier, safer place for everyone.”
The Cherbourg Environmental Health Plan is currently being developed, and further community consultation will take place before the final plan is released. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and continue sharing their input.
For further information, please contact:
📞 Elizabeth O’Chin, Environmental Health Worker – 0439 535 253
📞 Animal Welfare Worker – 0475 721 870