A new environmental restoration project along the Condamine River is promoting the long-term health of the river’s ecosystem and supporting local vocational training, thanks to an ongoing partnership between the Southern Downs Industry Education Association (SDIEA) and Southern Downs Regional Council.
The 10-week initiative is led by SDIEA’s Conservation and Ecosystem Management (CAEM) team and focuses on the removal of invasive weeds and re-establishment of native vegetation at two key sites along the riverbank. With assistance from Council’s Parks and Operations team in chemical application and disposal of weeds, quick work has already been made and there is a noticeable difference in the landscape.
CAEM Project Lead and head of Naturescapes, Kimberley Robertson welcomed the collaboration and said the project offered wide-reaching benefits.
“I’ve wanted to see restoration works conducted along the river since I came to Warwick in 2019 and I’m excited to have Council on board with a project that contributes directly to improving the health of the Condamine River. In the long run, it will also benefit the community and tourism industry by creating another attractive landscape parkland for everyone to enjoy.”
Southern Downs Councillor Carla Pidgeon said this project is a practical example of how collaborations between Council and industry can deliver sustainable outcomes in the management of invasive species on the Southern Downs.
“This initiative demonstrates what we can achieve when Council and the community work together toward a shared goal of environmental sustainability,” Councillor Pidgeon said.
“By removing invasive weeds like Chinese elm, and planting resilient native species, we’re supporting the long-term health of the Condamine River ecosystem.
“With help from our Parks team, this project will create space for river red gums, black tea trees, bottlebrushes and mat-Rushes — native plants that will strengthen the riverbank and support future local biodiversity.”
Southern Downs Deputy Mayor Sheryl Windle praised the initiative, highlighting the value of hands-on learning.
“The SDIEA team have an excellent opportunity to learn about eco-system management and restoration in a real-life application.
“I look forward to the positive impact their work will have on the amenity of the Condamine River Walk for residents and visitors to the region.
“While the project is fully funded by SDIEA, Council is proud to contribute expert advice, assist with targeted weed removal and ensure best-practice environmental care through the use of sensitive herbicide treatments,” Deputy Mayor Windle said.
Quick Facts:
- All SDIEA trainees involved in the project will complete a Southern Downs Regional Council safety induction and will be supervised at all times by a suitably qualified person.
- SDIEA is responsible for the maintenance of both new and existing native plantings throughout the duration of the CAEM course.
- Native revegetation will include strategic planting of native species including:
- Eucalyptus camaldulensis – river red gum (27)
- Melaleuca bracteata – black tea tree (12)
- Melaleuca viminalis – weeping bottlebrush (60)
- Lomandra longifolia – spiny-headed mat-rush (100)
For all the latest Council news and information, download the ‘My SDRC’ App or visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au.
ENDS
Last edited date 24 Apr 2025