In response to the damage caused by the 2021-2022 severe weather season, Southern Gulf NRM is leading the restoration effort along the Flinders River near Hughenden.
Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the project will see Verterra Ecological Engineering, local contractors, and Traditional Owners working together to restore three heavily eroded sites.
Following months of planning, site assessments, and cultural heritage surveys conducted with Yirendali Aboriginal Corporation and Northern Archaeology Consultancies, on-ground works are scheduled to begin in the first week of June.
Key restoration activities include:
- Soil Amelioration
- Revegetating with native species
- Stabilising the adjacent banks and beds with mature trees (Living Pile Fields) sedges and rushes
- Fencing revegetation areas for access control
These works aim to improve bank stability, protect biodiversity, and reduce sediment runoff during future flood events.
“This project is a critical step in building the region’s resilience to future flood events. By working closely with Traditional Owners, local contractors, and technical experts, we’re ensuring that the restoration is not only scientifically sound but also culturally respectful and locally supported.” – Southern Gulf NRM, Chief Executive Officer, Damian Miley
“We’re excited to begin this crucial work – reinstating key vegetation zones along the Flinders River to deliver lasting benefits for landholders, the local community, and this essential natural landscape.” – Verterra Ecological Engineering
“Flinders Shire Council supports Southern Gulf NRM’s restoration efforts by establishing vegetation to protect and restore natural habitats, in the identified areas where severe erosion has occurred to ensure that the natural environment sustains a healthy biodiversity and ecosystems until it becomes self-sustaining.” – Flinders Shire Council, Chief Executive Officer, Eddie Jackson
By combining environmental science and local and traditional knowledge, this project is helping to protect the Flinders River for future generations.
This project, which will be delivered by Southern Gulf NRM, Verterra Engineering, local suppliers, and sub-contractors, is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Queensland Government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
