Local action revitalises wetlands

Cairns is home to some of Far North Queensland’s most environmentally and culturally significant wetlands, many of which are now thriving thanks to Cairns Regional Council’s strong focus on rehabilitation and long-term management.

Today is World Wetlands Day, a day to remember and celebrate the city’s rich network of wetlands and the critical role they play in protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

Working alongside local community groups, Traditional Owners and Land and Sea Ranger Groups, Council delivers year-round restoration and conservation projects across key wetland systems including Cattana Wetlands, the Saltwater Creek Catchment, Centenary Lakes, mangroves and floodplains.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said World Wetlands Day was an opportunity to recognise how closely connected local wetlands are to the health of the Reef.

“Across Cairns, our rivers, estuaries, floodplains and wetlands flow directly into the Marine Park. The choices we make on land have a direct impact on the Reef,” Cr Eden said.

“Wetlands are much more than just beautiful places to visit – they are a critical part of our natural environment and one of our strongest natural defences in protecting the Great Barrier Reef.”

Wetlands act as natural filters, trapping sediment and pollutants before they reach the ocean.

Mangrove ecosystems are particularly important, providing nurseries and feeding grounds for marine life, storing carbon, and improving water quality flowing to the Reef.

Division 7 Councillor and Council’s representative on the Reef Guardian Council Program Steering Committee Anna Middleton said Council is proud to partner with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and other Reef Guardian Councils across the Reef catchment.

“It’s so important that we support projects that champion sustainable practices and strengthen ecosystem resilience including Clean Creeks Programs, and Conservation Partnerships Program.” Cr Middleton said.

“We are equally proud to work alongside our region’s Land and Sea Ranger Groups, whose deep cultural knowledge and stewardship continue to guide the protection and management of these precious environments.”

Residents are encouraged to play their part by joining local catchment groups, participating in tree-planting activities, disposing of waste responsibly and preventing pollutants from entering stormwater systems.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated internationally and highlights the importance of wetlands for biodiversity, climate resilience and cultural heritage.