Currumbin Eco-Parkland Update December 2023

Economic Development Queensland has been working closely with its contractors to progress plans for the Currumbin Eco-Parkland, in order to protect this important and unique parcel of land for the Gold Coast community.

Through a series of comprehensive community engagements and technical site assessments, EDQ identified the importance of preserving the site’s ecological values and remains committed to its long-term ecological restoration, to preserve and rehabilitate its endangered ecosystems.

EDQ continues to work toward protecting this unique site in the Gold Coast hinterland, and an ecological restoration plan is under way, which will build upon the findings of an ecological report completed in February 2023. The plan will inform the activities required to incrementally restore the site’s environmental values.

In this year’s budget, the Palaszczuk Government allocated 31 million over 5 years to support the project’s activation, and EDQ is looking forward to sharing further project updates in due course. This includes news around plans for a koala fodder plantation and a look at the final activation plan for the project.

Biodiversity Australia’s Environmental Management Program and Indigenous Trainee Program

Biodiversity Australia has been instrumental in improving Currumbin Eco-Parkland this year through a comprehensive vegetation management program. The initiative extends beyond invasive weed control to encompass a holistic approach to environmental management in support of future restoration.

The team’s primary goal in 2023 has been the reduction of invasive weeds in portions of the park. The initial phase has concentrated on the property's front section, particularly around waterway connections mitigating the spread of some invasive species through the property’s waterways.

Biodiversity Australia have highlighted the diversity of weeds encountered on site, including weeds of national significance like Lantana and Fireweed, as well as Giant Devil’s Fig, Brazilian pepper trees, and Tobacco Weed. The team employs varied techniques to combat these invaders, such as hand-pulling to reduce chemical usage where possible and cut-paste and stem injection techniques.

An inspiring aspect of this project is the inclusion of an Indigenous trainee program. Ruby Lee Schofield, a First Nations trainee working under Biodiversity Australia’s guidance, has been actively involved in maintaining fire breaks and maintaining the land. Her contributions not only aid in environmental management but also foster a deeper connection with the land, uncovering areas where native species are flourishing and wildlife, like goannas and kangaroos, thrive.