A population of the Giant Barred-Frog (Mixophyes iteratus) was discovered on the Lyons property in the Numinbah Valley, Gold Coast hinterland. In order to protect and increase the population of this endangered species, funding was sought and gained through the Australian Water Grants scheme, with commencement of the project in 2006. The project was initiated by Griffith University with support from the Numinbah Valley Environmental Education Centre, Gold Coast City Council, SEQ Catchments and most importantly the Lyons family. The landholders (the Lyons family) recognise the value of protecting this threatened species on their property. This project will also enhance the environmental assets of the property.
Drinking water and stream frogs require a healthy stream environment and riparian vegetation is essential for the protection of these resources. This project will incorporate best practice management to raise water standards, providing drinking water to the Gold Coast and a healthy river environment for a population of the endangered Giant Barred River Frog. Community awareness and public education on the importance of riparian vegetation and the protection of threatened species will be provided.
Three kilometres of fencing will be set up to exclude cattle, and restore the riparian habitat along the Nerang River, with a 30 metre buffer zone on either side of the river. Revegetation and maintenance of rehabilitated areas will include weeding and replanting as necessary and will be conducted by a Green Corps Team and the Numinbah Valley Environmental Education Centre with the assistance of students from Griffith University. Additional landholders and funding will be sought to replicate this project along the Nerang River throughout Numinbah Valley Catchment - providing habitat connectivity from Natural Bridge National Park to the Hinze Dam.
The objectives of this project are to:
- Increase the riparian zone to a minimum of 30 metres in width through natural regeneration and planting of native species of reeds, shrubs and trees
- Remove and manage weeds
- Limit access to the riparian zone through strategic fencing
- Planting to allow low impact camping
- Erect educational signage throughout the site
- Develop a community education program
What you can do to help:
- Remove livestock from the riparian zone
- Remove and manage weeds
- Fence off the riparian strip 30 metres from the river throughout your property
- Grants are currently available to assist
- Contact Jim Rebgetz at the Numinbah Valley Environmental Education Centre or Associate Proffesor Jean-Marc Hero at Griffith University for more information.