Where and what are the top priorities for environmental protection and restoration in our region? How can we support a local renewable energy transition while protecting and enhancing our environmental values?

Those are the questions we want to answer - and we need your help!

If you've spent any time in North Queensland, there is a good chance you've come across some of our native flying foxes. The Townsville region is home to two species: Black Flying-foxes and Little Red Flying-foxes. They are long-range pollinators, critical to the health of our ecosystems.

In December 2024, the Julia Creek Vanadium and Energy Project (by QEM Ltd.) was declared a coordinated project by  Queensland’s Coordinator-General. So, what do we know about this North Queensland project?

We know that avian bird flu is affecting poultry and egg production in Australia, but what are the risks to native birds, and what can be done to stop the spread? 

The information below has been shared by Ingrid Marker from Cassowary Keystone Conservation. 

In December 2022, the Australian Government announced that bioregional plans would be developed to better protect areas that matter for the environment and allow for faster development decisions. 

Photo sourced from QPWS

The rugged, mountainous Bowling Green Bay National Park on the land of the Bindal people, is set to expand by two hectares after the Queensland Government acquired three islets off the coast of Townsville.

Native animals including the white-bellied sea-eagle and black-naped tern are set to benefit.

Image source

Media Release: Queensland Conservation Council & North Queensland Conservation Council

8 March 2024

The bulldozing of a 2km-long driveway through Bowling Green National Park near Townsville is an international embarrassment for Queensland, highlighting critical problems in the state’s ability to respond to illegal clearing across the state.

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre Basin in Queensland's Channel Country has been threatened by oil and gas exploration, with roads disrupting the seasonal flow of water along the iconic flat landscape. This week, Premier Steven Miles announced that his government would ban new oil and gas developments in the Channel Country. 

In August 2023, the Queensland Government consulted on proposed changes to the Animal Management Act (Cats and Dogs) 2008. While the purpose of these changes was to introduce tougher penalties to owners of dogs that attack people, some in the conservation movement took this opportunity to highlight the threat that uncontrolled dogs pose to native wildlife. 

Townsville's urban forest is an invaluable asset to the city. Our trees and other vegetation provide shade, shelter and habitat, prevent erosion, mitigate the impacts of flooding and store carbon. They are arguably our best weapon for adapting to climate change and preventing biodiversity loss.