Improving hydrology and fish passage on Sheepstation Creek
The shallow coastal wetlands in Bowling Green Bay , south of Townsville , used to be ephemeral , drying down naturally every winter and keeping aquatic weeds in check . During the past 50 years , however , irrigation water delivered to Lower Burdekin farms led to these wetlands being permanently wet . The resulting proliferation of weeds created barriers for migratory fish and reduced waderbird habitat .
As part of the Australian Government-funded Restoring Bowling Green Bay Wetlands project , NQ Dry Tropics worked to reinstate the seasonal dry down and improve fish connectivity by installing a lay flat gate , low level causeway and two rock ramp fishways at locations along Sheepstation Creek , near Ayr .
The project also involved monitoring activities near the fishways to determine the variety and extent of native fish species , including barramundi and mangrove jack .
Protecting the dunes at Alva
Sand dunes at Lynch ’ s Beach , Alva protect the coastal township from inundation and erosion by absorbing wave energy generated during storms and cyclones . In recent years , four-wheel drive vehicles and quad bikes damaged the vegetation binding the dunes together , exposing the sand to wind erosion .
NQ Dry Tropics contracted Gudjuda Rangers and a crew from Indigenous employment group Three Big Rivers to revegetate and maintain the dunes , using native plants specially selected for their ability to withstand harsh coastal conditions , such as beach hibiscus , burdekin plum and spinifex .
Fencing and signage helps protect the seedlings and informs the public about the importance of keeping vehicles off the dunes . Local community members have supported the initiative .
This work was part of the Restoring Bowling Green Bay Wetlands project and the From the Land to the Sea project , both funded by the Australian Government .
Year In Review 2022-2023 17