Cairns and Far North Environment Centre Inc. (CAFNEC)

Qui sommes-nous

The Cairns and Far North Environment Centre (CAFNEC) is the peak regional non-government environment organisation for Far North Queensland. It was established in 1981 by concerned local and regional community members with an interest in nature conservation and environmental protection.

Our mission is to lead and support the community in valuing the natural environment through conservation and ecological sustainability.

CAFNEC´s Key Functions
• Campaigning for the FNQ environment – everything from grass roots activism to political lobbying at a local, State and Federal level;
• Representing environmental interests in the Far North region to tourism, agricultural/industry and other sectors of the community;
• Providing communication services for the region´s environment movement;
• Sponsoring grants for projects and research on matters relating to the region´s environment;
• Maintaining an easily accessible community library and resource centre with materials relating to environmental issues;
• Aiding the establishment of, and providing support to, like-minded local organizations;
• Raising awareness and understanding of environmental issues to members and the wider community.
• Publication of `Ecotone´, CAFNEC´s quality quarterly newsletter, over nearly two decades

Activities
• Coastal Development: CAFNEC will continue to lobby industry and all levels of government to adopt development policies and planning approaches which genuinely aim to achieve ecologically sustainable development. Raising community awareness of the environmental alternatives and exposing urban developments that pose an intolerable threat to our rich tropical ecosystems.
• Sustainability and Climate Change: We have a vision for creating a sustainable future for far north Queensland and we are working to encourage this transition to a safe and prosperous future for our region. Our work in this area includes: Campaigns and projects and alliances and partnerships.
• Regional Sustainable Development: CAFNEC believes there are ample opportunities for economic activity and development that is ecologically sustainable. This means development (either individually or cumulatively) that do not cause irreversible damage to the natural environment and supports local communities.
• Cape York: Cape York Peninsula is an ancient and beautiful region that has been home to a diversity of Aboriginal and Islander peoples for thousands of years. But it is also a land of contrasts. CAFNEC believes that that resolution of the dispossession of traditional peoples from their land, together with resolution of the social and economic consequences of the dispossession, are fundamental to the conservation of the Cape´s natural and cultural heritage.
• Marine Conservation

Sarah Hoyal is the Coordinator of the Cairns and Far North Environment Centre (CAFNEC).

For other net participants we can offer an expert guidance through trained staff, give an expert opinion, procure expert information and establish new contacts in the field of our work.