Residents are being asked to have their say on the future of a significant hinterland conservation area.
Sunshine Coast Council has released its draft management plan for Brannocks Environment Reserve, calling for feedback to how the 92-hectare site will be protected and enhanced in the years ahead.
The reserve sits within the upper catchment of the Mooloolah River, adjoining Ewen Maddock Dam, and forms a vital biodiversity corridor linking Dularcha National Park, Mooloolah River National Park and Racemosa Environment Reserve.
The draft plan provides an assessment of the site’s ecological, social, cultural and economic values and outlines actions aimed at safeguarding them into the future. The reserve supports six regional ecosystems, including five areas of endangered coastal swamp sclerophyll forest, a listed ecological community that provides habitat for threatened species such as the vulnerable wallum froglet.
Biological surveys have recorded 321 native plant species within the reserve, including the critically endangered native guava (Rhodomyrtus psidioides). Fauna surveys have identified 47 bird species, among them the vulnerable glossy black-cockatoo, as well as 18 microbat species, 10 marsupial species including eastern grey kangaroos and squirrel gliders, seven frog species and the vulnerable grey-headed flying fox.
The reserve is also identified as primary core and connecting koala habitat under council’s Biodiversity Network Blueprint and is being considered for potential nomination as a Nature Refuge under the National Reserve System.
Recommended management actions include installing nest boxes, improving fauna crossing infrastructure and managing risks associated with climate change and wildfire. A detailed landscape plan will also be developed to guide future trails, access points and visitor experiences.
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In addition to its environmental significance, the area holds important cultural values for the Kabi Kabi peoples and offers opportunities for informal community recreation.
The land was secured through three strategic acquisitions in 1999, 2002 and 2017, funded by council’s Environment Levy and Land Acquisition Program. The reserve is named after John Brannock, a former Ipswich City Council planner who championed its long-term conservation. Council currently allocates $50,000 annually for maintenance.
Members of the public can review the draft plan and provide feedback between February 23 and 5pm on March 20, by completing an online survey and participating in a “Fund-It” activity to help identify management priorities. Feedback will inform refinement of the plan, which is due to be finalised and published by June 2026, with implementation to follow.
