More Moreton Bay land preserved for wildlife

Almost 100ha of land across the Moreton Bay Region has been preserved for wildlife since Council introduced its Land Buyback for Environmental Purposes scheme.

Council recently made its fifth purchase under the program – a 14.5ha parcel of land at Bunya.

Mayor Peter Flannery says the property, at 519 Bunya Rd, Bunya, has increased Council’s overall tally to 99ha of land preserved since the program launched in 2020.

“This prime koala and wildlife habitat will now remain untouched by development for many years to come,” Mayor Flannery says.

“This not only helps Council restrict Moreton Bay’s urban footprint to just 25 percent of the region’s landmass, but it helps connect existing wildlife corridors so that koalas and the like can move freely throughout our region.

“We know that Moreton Bay’s human population is growing, which is why we’re putting these measures in place now to protect our koalas and other wildlife by maintaining and enhancing the connectivity of our natural assets.”

First for The Hills

Mayor Flannery says Council has more properties in its sights to help expand the region’s green network.

“I can’t wait to celebrate our 100th hectare purchased under the Land Buyback program in the near future.”

Councillor Matt Constance (Div 10) says he’s pleased Council has secured the first property within The Hills District.

“The Hills District is full of lush Australian bushland that’s just perfect for all kinds of wildlife like koalas to call home,” he says.

“It’s a major drawcard for residents to have that connection to nature and we know locals want to see more protections in place for our wildlife, so I’m glad Council was able to deliver by purchasing this key property in Bunya.

“Instead of falling into the hands of developers in the future, it will remain a great natural asset to the community and our local wildlife.

“Council officers will now monitor this land and rehabilitate it if necessary by removing invasive weeds and planting further wildlife habitat to help improve this sanctuary for wildlife.”

Click here for more information about the Land Buyback for Environmental Purposes program.