I hope our first edition of Paperbark for 2026 finds you refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for anything!

If you've entered the new year with a strong desire to: learn new skills, meet new people, live your values, take action in your community, or simply spend more time in nature, then we've got you sorted!

This year promises to be filled with opportunities to "think global, act local", with hands-on conservation activities, citizen science, political advocacy, fundraising, film nights, networking and more!

We look forward to having you join us this year in our strategic efforts for stronger nature protection and climate action. Thanks for standing with us!

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

2026 is off to a fantastic start for the North Queensland Conservation Council, and JCU Market Day set the tone beautifully. The campus was buzzing, the stalls were packed, and we were thrilled to meet so many students eager to get involved.

Five years ago, an independent review of Australia's federal nature laws found that they were failing. This week, the EPBC Act has finally been overhauled, after negotiations between the Labor Government and the Greens resulted in changes that have been labelled "transformative" and "historic". There is still work to be done, but a sigh of relief right now is justified.

While history is being made in federal politics, in the Hinchinbrook Channel, history is set to repeat itself.

Long-term NQCC members might remember the courageous yet ultimately unsuccessful fight against the development of Port Hinchinbrook. Decades of environmental disturbance and decay have ensued. Now, the State Government is looking to revitalise the area and dredge up the past. That can't happen on our watch. Making a submission takes a few minutes, but could make a world of difference. 

Thank you for your support throughout this massive month! It's been exciting, and we love sharing it with you.

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

Having just recently returned from meetings, roundtables, workshops and an Alliance Convention in Meanjin/Brisbane, I am equal parts exhausted and inspired. 

There are remarkable, intelligent, compassionate and hard-working people all across this state who are dedicated to our natural world and protecting it in perpetuity. When we collaborate and put our strengths together, we are powerful - and I'm so privileged to get to see it in action!

What's even better is returning home to the (hot!) dry tropics and seeing NQCC's own remarkable community in action! 

As I prepare to hit the road for a short break, Luna is organising NQCC's upcoming Mayoral Candidates' Forum, which is shaping up to be an event not to be missed! If you can lend a hand or spare some cash to help bring it to life, I know it would be appreciated!

Thanks for all that you do. 

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

This month, the Australian Government outlined our climate future scenarios with the release of their first National Climate Risk Assessment. If this had you feeling grief-stricken, angry or numb, you're not alone. The following week, they released a climate target that looks much like a balancing act between taking action and ensuring our country's biggest polluters can still turn a healthy profit. 

What can we do about it?

With North Queensland as a key region in our state's energy transition, we need to make sure we get renewables right - and we want your input! We also need to prioritise climate adaptation that harnesses the power of nature and the strengths of our community. Our open letter to decision-makers lays out our expectations - let us know ASAP if your organisation wants to sign on!

We also need to look after each other - and throughout October, Luna is leveraging our wonderful local networks to provide meaningful opportunities for connection, reflection and empowerment. 

With the support of a strong, renewed Management Committee and supporters like you, we remain hopeful for the future. Please enjoy the read.

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

AGMs at NQCC are never boring! We make them fun, friendly, and a chance to connect with our community. This year was no exception – with good food (thanks to our amazing volunteer and Treasurer, Monita), plenty of conversation, and a warm atmosphere that reflects the spirit of NQCC.

One of the most delightful aspects of leading a community organisation is interacting with our exceptional community.

This month, Luna has brought people together through several vibrant community events and I've had the pleasure of facilitating workshops to map nature priorities for our region's renewable energy transition. Meanwhile, passionate volunteers have been hitting the streets and the phones selling tickets in our e-bike raffle fundraiser. Thank you to everyone who has helped make August so fruitful!

I suggest you have your diary close by while you browse this edition of Paperbark, because September promises to be just as action-packed, and you won't want to miss a thing!

Thanks as always for your continued support. I can't wait to see you at our AGM to celebrate our successes together!

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

In a massive win for conservation in North Queensland, a bill that would see crocodiles culled has failed to pass the scrutiny of the Parliamentary Committee. Its scathing report found that the approaches outlined in the bill were unnecessary, ineffective and not backed by science. 

On a sunny but windy Saturday afternoon, we joined other local organisations, businesses, and council initiatives at Strand Park for the second Healthy Waters Arvo - a community event celebrating efforts to protect and restore water health across our region.

The weather last Wednesday at JCU Market Day mirrored what many students told us they were feeling — overcast, a little heavy.

We set up a large “Climate Mood” board to check in with students about how they’re feeling about the climate crisis. Since the peak of the school strikes and the disruptions of COVID, things have quietened down. We wanted to know — what’s shifted, and where are people at now?