Port Curtis Integrated Monitoring Program is the first collaborative monitoring program to be undertaken for the whole of the Port Curtis. The Gladstone-based PCIMP program conducts ambient mid to far field monitoring of water bodies for the whole of Port Curtis which extends from the northern end of the Narrows to Rodds Bay and includes the harbour and its tributaries.
PCIMP was established in 2001 as a consortium of members from 16 bodies representing industry , government (both local and state), research institutions and other stake holders to develop a long term cooperative monitoring program for Port Curtis and to ensure the environmental sustainability of the Port of Gladstone.
PCIMP adopted the following vision.
To foster coordination of monitoring activities among stakeholders of Port Curtis and to share and disseminate information to improve our capacity to manage our natural resources in a sustainable and balanced way for the prosperity of our communities and the health of our natural environment.
In 2011 PCIMP members implemented changes to formalise the program and enhance program governance. The program was incorporated as an association and was renamed Port Curtis Integrated Monitoring Program Inc.
An Independent Chair of the program was elected and the monitoring program scope and methodologies was reviewed. The review was undertaken by a panel of independent specialists (Professor Barry Hart , Dr Eva Abal, Dr Russ Babcock and Dr Britta Schaffelke) who were sourced from research Institutions from across the country and was based on the Independent Science Panel for the Fitzroy Partnership. The modified program, which incorporates quarterly sampling and analysis, commenced in November 2012.
Sampling and analysis of water quality and sediments is conducted as prescribed to capture seasonal effects as well as other events which impact on the waters of Port Curtis. Data is meticulously evaluated to identify trends and significant features which occur over time and unique to specific locations which allows for easier detection of changes.
Overseeing the science of the PCIMP program is a Technical Sub-Committee (PCIMP TSC) consisting of specialists from industry and CQ University. Their key role is to continually assess the parameters being evaluated and periodically refine the program's scope and methodologies to ensure the monitoring program is adapted to monitor those factors which measure the increasing pressures being placed on Port Curtis.
The Management Committee are responsible for the coordination of the various researchers and institutions involved and other functional activities related to the organisation of consultants and industry groups who contribute to the program.
Dr David Kopelke PSM is PCIMP's current Independent Chair and spokesperson. Dr Kopelke has extensive experience and knowledge in water quality monitoring and environmental education programs and has a strong focus on people learning from the environment
The PCIMP program has also benefited the community is a number of ways.
- The on-going monitoring and reporting program provides invaluable information to researchers and the community. In 2006 when the 'Global Peace' oil spill occurred, PCIMP was able to provide data and tracking.
- PCIMP data is used by the Gladstone Healthy Harbour Partnership to produce their annual Report Card.
- PCIMP data and TSC advice was utilised and considered by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection in the creation of the new Capricorn Curtis Coast Water Quality Objectives
The continuation of the PCIMP program ensures the trends in water and sediment quality in Port Curtis are assessed and monitored, to inform the management of the Harbour to maintain healthy waters for recreational use , marine sustainability and minimal impact into the adjoining World Heritage Area and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
