Climate change is emerging as the hot topic for Tablelands community groups and landholders who are having their say on the Wet Tropics Plan for People and Country.

Terrain NRM’s Bronwyn Robertson said a major review of the plan, five years after it was first launched, was revealing a shift in perspective.

“Community groups are talking about the impact of climate change and saying it is something that they want to see action on – to protect habitat and communities,’’ Mrs Robertson said.

More than 60 people – from community group members to traditional owners and landholders – have given their input over the past two months in the Southern Tablelands and Upper Herbert districts. Mrs Roberston is encouraging others to have their say too.

“The Wet Tropics Plan for People and Country includes priority actions for each area in this region covering Ingham, the Cassowary Coast, Tablelands, Upper Herbert, Cairns and Mossman-Port Douglas,’’ she said.

“It’s the basis for decision-making at all levels – from land managers and community groups to investors and government.”

Terrain NRM is custodian of the natural resource management plan, which is community-driven and supported by scientific and technical information. It is online at www.wettropicsplan.org.au

Mrs Robertson has been speaking with members of Barron Catchment Care, Tolga Bat Rescue, TREAT, Wabubadda, Wadjanbarra and Yungaburra Landcare over the past few months.

This project is supported by Terrain NRM through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.