Yandina Creek Wetland Officially Opened

Yandina Creek Wetland

Queensland Environment Minister Steven Miles and UnityWater Chairman Jim Soorley today officially opened the Yandina Creek Wetland on the Sunshine Coast.

Steven Miles & Jim Soorley opening the wetland

Here is Unity Water's Statement:

Unitywater bought the 191-hectare site last year as a green alternative to upgrading sewage treatment plants in the area.

The site is former cane farming land and as part of Unitywater’s management of the site, flood gates will be opened to restore the area to a wetland.

Minister Miles said the wetland will act as a natural filter and remove nutrients and sediments from Maroochy River.

“The wetland will remove about 5.3 tonnes of total nitrogen a year – it’s an environmental win that this can be achieved naturally,” Minister Miles said.

“The wetland plants will take up nutrients from the river and help maintain water quality.

“We are proud of Unitywater’s commitment to this site and the natural environment.”

First bird surveys of the wetland underway

BirdLife Australia members at the wetland

 Unitywater Chairman Jim Soorley said Unitywater had partnered with Birdlife Southern Queensland and the University of the Sunshine Coast to help manage the site.

“Birdlife Southern Queensland volunteers are undertaking quarterly bird surveys for the next three years,” he said.

“The first survey was completed recently and 41 different types of birds were spotted on site, with 211 spotted in total.

“We’re also undertaking a five-year study with the University of the Sunshine Coast, which will assess the fisheries habitat in the wetland and focus on fish, prawns and crabs compared with other sites.

“Our vision for the future is to open the site up to the public for bird watching and walking trails, for locals and visitors to get back to nature.

“And with the solar farm just across the road, we look forward to working with Sunshine Coast Council and the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection to create a dynamic environmental education hub here.

“Unitywater is committed to maintaining the natural state of the wetland and working with neighbours and other stakeholders for many years to come.”