A story ofregional action
Embracing and protecting the unique freshwater life of SEQ
South East Queensland (SEQ) is a region renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly within its diverse freshwater habitats.
SEQ is home to iconic species
Freshwater is essential
- Freshwater is essential for sustaining both nature and human life, impacting us in ways we may not always notice.
- It provides drinking water, supports agriculture, offers recreational opportunities and maintains vital ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling and flood regulation.
Species are a great indicator of healthy freshwater systems
- The region’s rivers, creeks, and wetlands support an incredible variety of life, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of local ecosystems.
- These habitats are home to a unique array of species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
- The presence of these species serves as indicators of healthy freshwater systems.
What's that species?
Among the most iconic of SEQ’s freshwater inhabitants is the platypus. With its distinctive duckbill and webbed feet, and one of only two egg-laying mammals in the world, the platypus is a symbol of Australia’s iconic wildlife.
Equally remarkable is the Australian lungfish, a living fossil that has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. These species, along with many others, are not just important as natural curiosities; they are integral to the ecological health of SEQ’s waterways, contributing to the intricate web of life that sustains the region.
Threats & health condition of our waterways
The survival of SEQ’s freshwater species is under significant threat, primarily due to the loss of riparian vegetation and the impact of sediment pollution from land clearing.
Riparian vegetation crucial
- Riparian vegetation, which lines the edges of waterways, plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by stabilising banks, filtering pollutants, and providing habitat for native species like the platypus and lungfish.
- Its removal, often a result of urban development and agricultural expansion leaves waterways exposed to erosion, leading to increased sediment runoff.
Invasive species and climate change
- Other threats such as invasive species and climate change further challenge the ecosystem’s ability to support its species.
- Conservation efforts are now more vital than ever.
Tracking the health of SEQ ecosystems
Critical insights for decision-makers
Long-term monitoring of ecosystems has become increasingly valuable to understand the waterway conditions and provide critical insights for decision-makers to foster resilient, healthy regions.
Tracking health for over 2 decades
The Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program (EHMP), one of Australia’s most comprehensive monitoring initiatives, has been tracking the health of SEQ’s freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems for over 20 years.
Stewardship action
The survival of SEQ’s freshwater species is under significant threat, primarily due to the loss of riparian vegetation and the impact of sediment pollution from land clearing.
Region-wide action underway
- Conservation and restoration initiatives, including ecosystem health monitoring, habitat restoration, pest species control and pollution reductions are being implemented across SEQ.
- These efforts are supported by local and state government agencies, local communities, and conservation organisations all working together to protect and restore the region’s freshwater ecosystems.
Community action key to success
- Public awareness and involvement are also key to the success of these initiatives.
- By participating in conservation activities, supporting sustainable practices, and advocating for stronger environmental protections, residents of SEQ can help ensure that its iconic freshwater species continue to thrive for generations to come.
- Not only is SEQ home to iconic species, but it is also a region where the health of our ecosystems reflects our collective commitment to preserving the natural world.
- The challenges are significant, but with concerted effort and community involvement, the future of SEQ’s freshwater species can be secured.
A story ofregional action
Freshwater life of SEQ
South East Queensland (SEQ) is a region renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly within its diverse freshwater habitats.
PlatypusWatch
Community leads surveys to indicate freshwater habitat health
Platypus workshop at Reynolds Creek May 2024 in collaboration with Scenic Rim Regional Council, Healthy Land & Water and Resilience Rivers Initiative. Image: Scenic Rim Regional Council
Lungfish Habitat Rehabilitation
Innovative program to restore stream habitat
The Australian lungfish is the oldest known living vertebrate, remaining unchanged from its current form for over 100 million years.
Brisbane River Cod Recovery Strategy
Restocking native fish for a better fishing future
The Brisbane River was once home to the Brisbane River cod, known as the Bumgur by the Jinibara people.
Read more regional stories - or send us yours!
Ahead of the release of the inaugural stewardship report for the region, if you would like to read a bit about the some great regional action underway, we will be publishing stories here as we receive them Contact us if you would like to send us one of yours!
A story ofstewardshipand local action in SEQ
Massive region-wide partnerships approach
The South East Queensland Stewardship Report is proudly funded and supported by the Queensland Government
This project has only been made possible by a collaboration of forward-thinking organisations.
Healthy Land & Water
Level 11, 240 Queen St
GPO Box 735
MEANJIN (BRISBANE)
QLD 4001
Australia
Healthy Land and Water Ltd
ABN 91 115 662 989
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