Almost 1400 hectares of bushland on North Stradbroke Island will be further enhanced after the largest Land for Wildlife declaration in the city was finalised recently.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the declaration was a partnership between Quandamooka Yoolooburabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), Redland City Council and SEQ Catchments.

“The new Land for Wildlife area continues the Quandamooka People’s work to conserve the native plants and animals on Country and is another demonstration of their leadership and commitment in land and sea management,” Cr Williams said.

“It is wonderful to see QYAC, SEQ Catchments and Council working together to protect and enhance the island’s unique and fragile habitats.

“This land contains habitats with high ecological values including marine environments and significant Quandamooka cultural values that are rarely captured under the Land for Wildlife Program, making this a unique opportunity to ensure this land retains its ecological and cultural significance.”

Divisional Councillor Craig Ogilvie said the Land for Wildlife declaration would enhance Straddie’s already strong environmental character.

“Straddie, or Minjerribah as it is known to the Quandamooka People, is home to diverse wildlife including a unique population of koalas, which will continue to be enhanced under this Land for Wildlife program,” he said.

QYAC CEO Cameron Costello said the Land for Wildlife Program would offer Traditional Owners additional support to protect and manage Quandamooka Country.

“This is a significant commitment by the Quandamooka People, creating the largest Land for Wildlife property managed by Traditional Owners in Queensland,” he said.

“While the program allows for assistance with plants and revegetation, the real benefit for all involved is the knowledge sharing.

“Our rangers and volunteers will benefit from the expert advice from SEQ Catchments and Redlands IndigiScapes Centre, while we are sharing our own knowledge and understanding about the unique cultural values of the Island.

Deborah Metters, Conservation Partnerships Coordinator from SEQ Catchments said land in the agreement covered more than 20 sites across the island.

“The great part about this agreement is the important land areas it contains – areas with a high number of significant trees that are home to some of Straddie’s rare, endangered and near threatened flora and fauna,” she said.

“This Land for Wildlife agreement is another string in the bow to all the great work being done by island land managers to work together for the island’s future.”

From left: William Smart (Field Supervisor, Quandamooka Community Rangers), Deborah Metter (SEQ Catchments), Lordie Walker (Quandamooka Community Ranger), Maree Manby (Redland City Council), Kurun Ruska (Quandamooka Community Ranger), Cr Craig Ogilvie, Richard Martin (Quandamooka Community Ranger), Joel Bolzenius (SEQ Catchments), Darren Burns and Cameron Costello (QYAC).