MP pushes for spotlight on dam deemed ‘risk to human life’

A SUNSHINE Coast politician has called for a community meeting to be held regarding the safety concerns of Ewen Maddock Dam.

State Member for Caloundra Mark McArdle on Tuesday wrote to the CEO of Seqwater and Minister for Energy and Water Supply Mark Bailey to request a community forum be held in response to recent reports of a potential "flood failure zone" for Ewen Maddock Dam.

It comes as the Courier Mail on July 15, and Sunshine Coast Daily, reported a child care business seeking approval to set up near the dam was advised by Sunshine Coast Council the development "presents a significant risk to human life and property".

It is alleged the council's advice was based on information contained in a document prepared by Seqwater concerning the dam in Mooloolah Valley.

Mr McArdle said in light of the articles, the communities of Landsborough, Glenview and Mooloolah Valley could well be very concerned about potential risk to their businesses, homes and families.

"Firstly, I believe that the report concerning the safety of the dam needs to be made available for the public," he said.

"Fear of the unknown is a powerful thing and until the community is able to see the information for themselves, worry can gnaw away."

Mr McArdle said the forum could answer many questions the public had regarding their personal safety and associated risk with living within the Ewen Maddock Dam's flood zone.

"Reports have also indicated that work will begin on upgrading the dam in 2019," he said.

"I have requested that this be a topic of discussion if the forum is to take place so that the community could be advised of what will be undertaken and how that date was decided upon."