George River Water Quality Panel & Review

On 23 February 2010, the Director of Public Health recommended to the Tasmanian Government that a process be established to address scientific research issues raised in the Australian Story ABC television program (which ran in two parts over 15 and 22 February 2010).

The story was about water quality in the George River in Tasmania’s north-east and the possible relationship between toxic surface foam linked to eucalyptus plantations in the catchment and concerns about public and aquatic health in the region.

On 26 February 2010 the Premier invited the independent Chair of the board of Tasmania’s Environment Protection Authority, John Ramsay, to oversee the gathering of the evidence and its assessment by relevant experts. On 9 March 2010, Convenor, John Ramsay, announced the formation of a panel of scientific experts to address scientific issues raised in the program and the terms of reference within which the panel will work.

Further information on the Review, including the Panel Members and FAQs (includes the terms of reference), is available at www.georgeriverwater.org.au

Members of the public who wish to be updated on the Review as it progresses are invited to register their interest by visiting the George River Water Quality Panel website above or by regular mail to:
George River Water Quality Panel
PO Box 404
SANDY BAY TASMANIA 7006