Vulnerable and endangered species such as the southern cassowary and spectacledflying fox will benefit from greater protection measures placed on an important area of lowland rainforest in Far North Queensland.
The eight-hectare parcel of land at Cape Tribulation will now be recognised as a nature refuge after an agreement was signed by the Palaszczuk Government and landowners under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said Cluster Fig Nature Refuge will help form a crucial corridor of vegetation that will allow wildlife to move to and from the adjacent Daintree National Park more freely.
“A small creek runs through the refuge and is home to several endangered frog species, such as the tapping green-eyed frog,” Ms Lui said.
“The property also protects habitat suitable for the spotted-tail quoll and double-eyed fig parrot, in addition to vital ‘rainforest gardeners’ like the southern cassowary, who spread the seeds of rainforest trees.
“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to protecting and conserving our unique environment through the Nature Refuges Program.
“This initiative gives landholders the opportunity to partner with government to protect and manage their land.”
Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said nature refuge agreements ensured environmental and conservation values could be protected in perpetuity, while keeping ownership with the landholder.
“National parks alone cannot maintain the amazing diversity of plants, animals and ecosystems found in Queensland,” Ms Enoch said.
“That’s why we’re so appreciative of landholders who agree to their land becoming a nature refuge – they play such a vital role in protecting our state’s extensive and unique biodiversity.
For more information on the Nature Refuges Program, please visit the DES website.
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