Mayor Hine indicated that the Minister for Parks and Heritage, Judy Jackson had confirmed that the process would be undertaken by her Department in the immediate future, with the anticipated completion of the EOI process by the end of September.

The EOI submissions will be considered by the Hunter Island Advisory Group, which has been established to provide feedback to the Council and State Government on management issues. The group includes community members together with Council and State representation.

A framework for the future management of Hunter Island, as proposed by the Circular Head Council in 2004, will be used as a foundation for the EOI process. The successful applicant will be called upon to honour a lease document that translates the framework into on-ground defined prescriptions.

Mayor Ross Hine said "The framework provides an avenue for ongoing community involvement and monitoring of lease performance. The commitment by the State Government is welcomed".

Further enquiries may be directed to Greg Winton by telephoning 6452 4800 or mobile 0438 071 651.

Authorised for general media distribution by Greg Winton, General Manager, Circular Head Council on Wednesday 10 August 2005.