Locals Leading the Way in Conservation Drive

Published 30 June 2021

5000th Property Owner for Land for Wildlife Program

Moreton Bay has hit a major conservation milestone, home to the 5000th signatory to join the South East Queensland Land for Wildlife Program.

Laceys Creek resident Timotheos Firestone listed his 77-hectare property to help protect the area’s diverse plant species and improve wildlife habitats.

“Since buying the property 18 months ago, I’ve become interested in learning more about fire and weed management, and how to restore habitat for wildlife,” Mr Firestone said.

“There’s a lot of challenges with maintaining such a large parcel of land including time and money, but the Land for Wildlife Program has been great in providing direction and connecting me with other like-minded people.

“I’ve always been interested in conserving nature, and when I signed up, I didn’t realise how much more there was to it, I’ve enjoyed the educational events and workshops.

“I really enjoy living here, listening to the sound of the birds and being able to retreat and connect to nature.”

Mayor Peter Flannery thanked Mr Firestone for becoming an advocate for protecting the environment.

“I’d like to acknowledge and celebrate Timotheos’ leadership in joining the program and caring for our environment,” Mayor Flannery said.

“He’s not alone, Moreton Bay Region has 610 properties now signed up to conserve or restore more than 4,400 hectares of land.”

Councillor Darren Grimwade (Div 11) said it was fantastic to see locals actively maintaining and enhancing wildlife habitat on their properties.

“Whether it’s being part of this program or joining Council’s Voluntary Conservation Program, I’d like to thank the individuals who are working with us to create a greener region,” Cr Grimwade said.

“Moreton Bay Region is home to a variety of incredible natural habitats and environments, from our coastline to the picturesque hinterland.

“We want to see our native fauna and flora thrive in their natural ways, which is why Council continues to invest in greater measures to protect our environment.”

The 2021-22 Council Budget allocates $61 million for parks and the environment, with $2.9 million available for land acquisitions to expand our wildlife corridors, green infrastructure maintenance and renewal.

For more information and opportunities to join conservation programs visit: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Environment/Voluntary-Conservation