Resident's remarkable gift to wildlife

A Moreton Bay resident has donated more than 21 hectares of land to help protect the region’s wildlife.

Moreton Bay City Council has approved an application for the land at Ocean View to join Council’s Voluntary Conservation Agreement Program.

The private landowner’s move will ensure more than half their property - of almost 42-hectares - will be protected for ever.

Mayor Peter Flannery said he is looking “forward to establishing the covenant for this property”.

“It is a pivotal piece of land that contains essential habitat for tusked frogs, glossy black cockatoos and koalas.

“The addition of this property marks a total of 16 properties in the program, which is a significant milestone for City of Moreton Bay as we now have over 200 hectares of habitat under protection.”

The Voluntary Conservation Agreement program ensures wildlife habitats and special natural areas in City of Moreton Bay are protected and enhanced.

An Agreement is legally binding between the landowner and City of Moreton Bay through a covenant which is registered on the property title to protect the land in perpetuity.

The covenant ensures development and clearing cannot be done in the area, protecting threatened flora and fauna for generations to come.

Voluntary Conservation Agreements are a permanent step-up from the Land for Wildlife program.

They enable City of Moreton Bay to help landowners through expert advice and access to grants and incentives, including rate rebates.

“I encourage landowners with conservation experience and wildlife habitats to get involved in Council’s initiatives, including the Land for Wildlife program,” Mayor Flannery said.

“These initiatives aid in the continued delivery of our environmental and sustainability focused goals, aiming to enhance and protect the city’s natural, cultural and landscape assets.”

Visit www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Environment/Sustainability-Conservation/Voluntary-Conservation-Programs