September marks Biodiversity Month in Australia, a time to celebrate the extraordinary diversity of life that makes our country unique and take action to protect it. From the iconic Mary River Turtle and White-Throated Snapping Turtle to the remarkable Mary River Cod, Platypus, and Lungfish, the Burnett Mary region is home to unique species found nowhere else. Yet, these ecosystems face significant threats from habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. At Burnett Mary Regional Group, we’re dedicated to safeguarding this biodiversity for future generations, and we invite you to join us in this vital mission.
Why Biodiversity Matters
Biodiversity is the foundation of healthy ecosystems, providing clean air, water, food, and cultural connection. From the vibrant wetlands, to the rivers, and mountains in the west of the Burnett Mary region, every species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance. By protecting biodiversity, we support resilient ecosystems that benefit both people and the planet.
How You Can Get Involved
This Biodiversity Month, take action to make a difference in your community:
- Plant Native Species: Create wildlife-friendly gardens by planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers that provide food and shelter for local species like birds, bees, and the Mary River Turtle. Visit your local nursery for advice on species suited to the Burnett Mary region.
- Control Invasive Weeds: Help protect native ecosystems by removing invasive plants like lantana or cat’s claw creeper from your property or local area.
- Choose Sustainable Practices: Reduce your environmental footprint by supporting local, eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and conserving water and energy.
- Spread the Word: Share your love for Australia’s unique wildlife on social media using #BiodiversityMonth and inspire others to take action.
Our Commitment to Biodiversity
At BMRG, we work collaboratively with landholders, Traditional Owners, community groups, and partner organisations to co-design innovative solutions that deliver measurable environmental outcomes across the Burnett Mary region. Our projects focus on:
- Sustainable Agriculture: Supporting farmers to adopt practices that enhance soil health, reduce erosion, and promote biodiversity-friendly land management.
- Climate Adaptation: Implementing strategies to help ecosystems and communities adapt to changing climates, such as restoring wetlands and improving water management.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting and restoring habitats for native species, from coastal ecosystems to inland ecosystems.
Through initiatives like revegetation, riverine, or sustainable agriculture programs, we’re fostering landscapes where biodiversity, agriculture, and cultural heritage coexist harmoniously.
Join Us This Biodiversity Month
Let’s make September a month of action and celebration. Visit the BMRG website to explore our projects, sign up for upcoming events, or learn how you can contribute to biodiversity conservation in the Burnett Mary region. Together, we can protect Australia’s natural heritage and ensure a thriving, biodiverse future.
Let’s celebrate Biodiversity Month by taking bold steps for our planet!
Visit BMRG's website for more details on our projects and how you can contribute.