On the banks of the Burnett River in Bundaberg, a significant revegetation project is underway thanks to a collaborative effort between Bundaberg Sugar and the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG).
Spanning 18.7 hectares, this large-scale restoration initiative aims to stabilise the riverbank, reduce sediment loss, and enhance the natural environment. Since March 2025, 18,700 native tube stock endemic to the local area have been planted by crews from Gympie Landcare and Gidarjil Development Corporation.
Bundaberg Sugar has played a crucial role in the early success of this project—providing essential ground preparation and revegetation maintenance support. These activities include hilling up rows to be planted, slashing in between rows, and irrigating newly planted tube stock. Importantly, the company made the significant decision to give up productive cane land to allow this revegetation effort to succeed—highlighting their strong commitment to a successful outcome.
The project was initiated in response to significant sediment loss observed during high-flow events in the Burnett River, which had been eroding Bundaberg Sugar's valuable land. Recognising the environmental risk, the company took proactive steps to support a long-term solution.
This important work has been made possible through funding from the Queensland Government’s $33.5 million Reef Assist program under the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program. This Government initiative supports environmental rehabilitation and indigenous employment across Great Barrier Reef catchments.