140 Islands in Queensland Included in the Great Barrier Reef by Government
Currently, over 14.5 million hectares, which equates to 8.39 percent of the state’s total land area, are protected in Queensland.
In preparation for the election season, the Queensland government has expanded the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to enhance the protection of endangered ecosystems and vital habitats. This expansion includes the addition of 140 islands or island parts to the state’s protected areas estate, supporting various activities such as fishing, shipping, recreation, and research.
The acquisition of 1,390 hectares of land will aid in safeguarding endangered ecosystems and vital habitats for crucial species like green and flatback turtles, seabirds, and shorebirds. These expansions involve purchasing leasehold properties, non-operational leases, land reserves adjacent to national parks, and transferring ecologically valuable unallocated state land to the protected area estate.
Chris Thomas, CEO of the National Parks Association of Queensland Inc., praised the expansion, highlighting the essential role national parks play in providing refuge for endangered plant and animal species.
Protected areas function as sanctuaries for biodiversity, essential sources of clean air and water, and spaces for sustainable recreational and educational experiences. The increased protected areas in Queensland ensure the survival of species, contribute to ecosystem health and resilience, and provide natural spaces for the community to explore and enjoy.
Boosting Chances of Species’ Survival
Queensland Conservation Council protected areas campaigner Nicky Moffat echoed the importance of connecting the Great Barrier Reef’s island and coastal national parks to ensure their future health. Moffat emphasized the need for well-funded protected areas to care for Queensland’s unique landscapes and praised the government’s effort in doubling the state’s protected areas estate.
Queensland Environment and Great Barrier Reef Minister Leanne Linard mentioned the government’s investment of $262.5 million in the Protected Area Strategy to acquire critical habitat for environmental and community benefits. The government remains committed to identifying and acquiring more land parcels to expand the protected areas estate.
Nearly 15 Million Hectares Protected
The Great Barrier Reef Island Arks project, along with the acquisition of Spadely Station on Curtis Island, ensures ongoing protection for vital habitats, estuarine wetlands, migratory bird habitat, threatened species, and nesting grounds for flatback turtles. Currently, Queensland’s terrestrial protected areas cover over 14.5 million hectares, with plans to include an additional 410,000 hectares in the future.
The project also includes funding for the rehabilitation of acquired areas, with the clean-up of structures, plants, and equipment ongoing on St. Bees Island and previous work completed on Wild Duck Island.
