Task

The town of Nakka Nakka is positioned in North Queensland, along the Tropic of Capricorn and approximately three hours West of Cairns. As a result the small, traditionally Indigenous community is partially boarded by a tropical rainforest. During the last 100 years, minor development has occurred resulting in the economic, residential and agricultural expansion of Nakka Nakka and it is now home to 2000 residents all relying on the job opportunities and resources provided by the town and its surrounding landscape.

There is currently a proposal from Timber Furniture Co. to log the forest which surrounds the community. After the forest has been stripped of its trees for wood products, there will be development on the cleared area. Presently, this development has been dedicated to the construction of a University which specializes in agricultural studies however, suggestions to allow for residential or agricultural growth are still being considered.

If the logging of the Nakka Nakka rainforest was to occur it would have both positive and negative impacts on the social, cultural, economic and environmental elements of the town. Due to the severity of this decision, the majority of town locals have formed extremely strong opinions and, as a result, the town's people have been divided - On one hand, the town will be gaining more job opportunities, which would be highly beneficial to this small community were unemployment levels are high. Many, however, argue the environmental implications will outweigh any benefits this proposal will bring.

 In groups of four, delegate the following four jobs. Each of you will have to take on one role and perform the tasks specified.

Click on your chosen job to find out information and follow the directions on the page.

The four different jobs are: Town Local, Enviromental Scientist, Traditional Owner and Business Owner.