More than 500 native tree seedlings have been planted at a 7.5 hectare property to provide vital refuge for wildlife.
Hinterland Bush Links’ Roving Restorers volunteers and community members planted the seedlings within an area at Bald Knob in early April.
The planting, supported by Unitywater’s Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program, will help grow a vital wildlife corridor that connects Mooloolah Valley and Maleny, allowing local fauna to move safely through the bushland they rely on.
Hinterland Bush Links manager Natalie Frost said the grant supported three planting events, six weed-removal sessions and educational sessions with landholders over a 12-month period.
“Wildlife corridors across the hinterland intersect through private properties, so educating local landholders to identify invasive weed species such as privet and care for the new natives on their properties is key to the longer-term success of the program,” she said.
“Habitat loss is the biggest threat to koalas, so it’s critical that along with protecting existing forests we must expand and connect essential wildlife corridors across the hinterland region.
“The trees planted throughout our community planting days will take a few years to provide food and shelter for larger wildlife like koalas, however native birds and insects will rely on them right away.”
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Unitywater executive manager strategic engagement Joshua Zugajev said the grant would help Hinterland Bush Links to increase volunteer-led planting and weed-removal events and initiatives during a 12-month period.
“We’re happy to support the Roving Restorers program, empowering this passionate group of volunteers to continue their excellent work to replenish protective tree canopies for wildlife including koalas, wallabies, owls and echidnas,” he said.
“Unitywater operates in a part of South-East Queensland that is home to some beloved wildlife, essential to the health and resilience of local ecosystems and valued by the communities who live, work and holiday in the region.”
Unitywater recently opened applications for its 2026-27 Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program, with funding available for initiatives enhancing the environment, connecting people to Country or providing innovative water solutions across its service region.
Applications will remain open until May 1 and groups can apply using Unitywater’s online grants portal. To find out more or apply for a grant, visit Unitywater’s grants page.
