PROJECT
Reef Wetlands
Initiative
Burnett Mary Regional Group is leading a coastal wetland restoration demonstration project through the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Reef Wetlands Initiative.
Working with Bundaberg Sugar, Traditional Owners, James Cook University, RMIT, Alluvium, Restore Blue the project aims to restore wetland function and improve water quality flowing towards the Great Barrier Reef.
The wider program targets at least 100 hectares of restored wetlands and 10–20 kilometres of riparian buffers across up to six sites.
By reconnecting water flows, reshaping wetland basins and establishing native vegetation, it aims to reduce nitrogen, fine sediment and pesticide risks while improving wildlife habitat.
BMRG is coordinating site selection, Traditional Owner and landholder co-design, engineering, approvals planning and monitoring frameworks.
Research and finance partners will help measure results and develop pathways to fund long-term care. The project is currently in the planning and design phase, with restoration works to follow under a separately second delivery stage.
The Reef Wetlands Initiative is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.