B4C is proud manage two key Nature Refuge properties: Mount Elliot and Mount Barney-Yamahra Creek, both situated within critical biodiversity corridors linking Bulimba Creek to the World Heritage-listed Border Ranges. These properties play a vital role in supporting endangered and critically endangered species, including greater gliders, koalas, the brush-tailed rock wallaby, glossy black cockatoo, spotted-tailed quoll, and the Flinders stink bush.
Safeguarding Biodiversity Through Strategic Investments
In 2015, B4C acquired the 129-hectare Mount Barney property on Yamahra Creek. This investment protects koala habitats, rare grassy woodlands, and creates a vital buffer to the Border Ranges. Building on this success, in 2018, with support from the Bulimba Creek Environment Fund, B4C secured the 80-hectare Mount Elliot property. This acquisition enhances the regional biodiversity corridor connecting Bulimba Creek, Karawatha Forest, and Flinders Peak.
Both properties embody the strength of community-government conservation partnerships and have become hubs for volunteer training and labour market initiatives, enabling hands-on experience in environmental management.
Updates on Our Refuges
Mount Barney
In September, representatives Ray Ison, Steve Cameron, and Wayne Cameron conducted a site visit to Mount Barney, focusing on its connectivity to neighbouring properties. With summer approaching, we’re prioritising bushfire preparedness, ensuring clear track access, and securing water resources. Effective weed control has positioned the property well, though ongoing maintenance is essential.
Mount Elliot
While weed management remains a challenge, particularly with large tracts of lantana, we’ve made steady progress. The property hosts ecological groups and wildlife monitoring activities, ensuring its conservation value is consistently upheld. In March 2025, we’re planning a volunteer day to tackle lantana infestations and invite the community to experience the beauty and significance of this refuge firsthand.
Expanding Our Reach: Landcare Sites in the Bulimba Creek Catchment
Beyond our Nature Refuges, B4C holds leases or permits for three strategic Landcare sites that are instrumental in our conservation efforts:
- Gibson Island: Leased from the Department of Natural Resources, this industrial Landcare site focuses on habitat rehabilitation and ecological restoration.
- The Oxbow and Doboy Wetlands: Managed under a permit from the Department of Main Roads, these areas contribute to wetland conservation and community engagement.
- The Sustainability Centre: Leased from Powerlink, this site serves as our headquarters and a hub for outdoor education, community training, and restoration activities.
This year, lease/permit agreements for both Gibson Island and Doboy Wetlands were successfully renewed, ensuring our continued ability to restore and enhance these critical ecosystems.
Join Us in Making a Difference
At B4C, we believe that conservation is a collective effort. Whether through volunteering, participating in community days, or supporting our initiatives, there are many ways to get involved. Find out more here.
