Riverine Restoration

Mission

To restore the natural function and connectivity of waterways across the Burnett Mary catchments, enhancing ecosystem resilience, supporting cultural and community values, and contributing to Reef water quality outcomes.

The Riverine Restoration team delivers targeted, science-informed actions to repair degraded river systems — addressing streambank erosion, sediment loss, riparian decline, and aquatic habitat fragmentation. Guided by tools such as the Paddock to Reef and SECAT models, and in close partnership with Traditional Owners, landholders, and councils, we implement practical solutions that improve water quality and ecological health from the upper catchments to the coast.

Key Outcomes

  • Targeted riverbank and gully stabilisation delivering measurable reductions in fine sediment loads from priority sub-catchments. Works are informed by SECAT, LiDAR and Reef Trust investment data, ensuring the greatest benefit for downstream water quality and ecosystem health.

  • Reconnected riparian corridors and floodplains that enhance biodiversity, improve hydrological function, and support recovery of aquatic habitats — including fish passage, macroinvertebrate diversity, and temperature regulation.

  • Improved water quality through sediment and nutrient retention, aligned with Reef 2050 and regional WQIP targets. Restoration efforts reduce pollutant loads entering sensitive receiving environments like the Great Sandy Strait and southern Great Barrier Reef.

  • Collaborative planning and knowledge sharing through partnerships with landholders, Traditional Owners, and local councils. This co-design approach ensures restoration strategies reflect cultural values, local context, and community stewardship for long-term success.

Current Focus Areas

Streambank and Gully Stabilisation
Delivering on-ground works to reduce active erosion using engineered and nature-based solutions, informed by LiDAR, sediment modelling, and field assessments.

Riparian Fencing and Revegetation
Protecting waterways by excluding stock and replanting native vegetation to improve bank stability, shade, habitat connectivity, and water filtration.

Floodplain and Wetland Reconnection
Restoring natural flow paths and water retention in disconnected floodplains and wetlands, enhancing biodiversity and catchment resilience.

Culturally Informed Restoration Planning
Working with Traditional Owners to identify cultural heritage, integrate Indigenous knowledge into design, and enable access and cultural use.

Monitoring and Data-Driven Design
Using tools such as SECAT, Econd® and Paddock to Reef to prioritise sites, track sediment reductions, and evaluate ecological outcomes over time.