Bramwell buy cops criticism

KATTER’S Australian Party has spoken out after the state government’s decision to buy a cattle station and eco-tourism facility on Cape York.

The Department of Environment and Science bought the 131,900ha Bramwell Station for an estimated $11.5m. KAP leader Robbie Katter (pictured) said he was concerned that the p u r c h a s e would lead to the locking up of the Cape and the pushing out of graziers.

“We don’t have the cash to be spending money on pointless environmental exercises, that will arguably deliver poorer outcomes than if the land were to remain in private hands,” Mr Katter said.

“Why is the government using taxpayer money to buy up cattle stations when there are far more pressing issues.

“Our regional road network is in ruin and people can’t even get dialysis without driving … four-five hours.”

He said stations like this supported local economies and many indirect jobs in transport and processing.