Leonie

Showcasing Projects

Leonie · Aug 21, 2025 · Leave a Comment

On-Ground Restoration Showcased During Reef 2050 Advisory Committee Visit

Reef Catchments recently welcomed members of the Reef 2050 Advisory Committee (RAC) to Murray Creek, providing a first-hand look at the on-ground efforts driving water quality improvements for the Great Barrier Reef.

The RAC, which plays an advisory role in guiding strategic action under the Reef 2050 Plan, visited the Mackay region to gain insights into the practical challenges, successes, and partnerships behind natural resource management (NRM) projects.

Partnerships Creating Lasting Change

The tour highlighted a 7 km stretch of Murray Creek, where landholder Peter Barreta has worked with Reef Catchments over many years to stabilise eroding streambanks and restore riparian health. Peter shared how severe erosion once threatened valuable sections of the property and how the restoration journey has transformed both the landscape and his connection with it. His work has caught the attention of neighbouring landholders who have shown interest in the work being carried out.

Smart Design, Better Outcomes

Reef Catchments Project Manager Brendan Smith explained the engineering and ecological strategies behind the works. At one site, a steep eroded bank close to a pocket of valuable palms was stabilised by building the bank forward with river material and supported through pile fields, root balls and rock rather than cutting further into a valuable pocket of vegetation. Other locations on the property showcased the evolution of project techniques, from a gully planted just 12 months ago with tube stock now reaching shoulder height, to older works where long-term monitoring has led to improved, more durable solutions. “Each site has its unique challenges, so we work closely with our engineering partners and install contractors to ensure the work we end up delivering to prevent erosion is fit for purpose. By being adaptive and delivering a collaborative soliton we give our sites the best chance of success”

Strong Local Partnerships

Also attending on the day was Glenn Croxford of Strathdickie Plant Hire, a long-time partner of Reef Catchments. Glenn spoke of his personal commitment to each site, highlighting how attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership contribute to the success of these projects. This large-scale reach remediation approach is made possible through ongoing collaboration between Reef Catchments, multiple funding sources, landholder Peter Barreta, and local contractors including GM Grader Hire, Strathdickie Plant Hire, and Jeppesen Farming Co.

Emma Jones, Principal Project Officer, highlighted how ongoing collaboration between landholders, contractors, and Reef Catchments ensures effective and lasting restoration outcomes. “Maintaining long term strong relationships with our contractors and landholders is critical for site success. If our landholders and contractors have bought into the outcomes of the project they go above and beyond to ensure successful site delivery.”

Why It Matters

Streambank erosion is a significant source of sediment entering reef catchments, impacting both land productivity and downstream water quality. Projects like this one at Murray Creek demonstrate the long-term value of early planning, consistent investment, and meaningful partnerships. By restoring riparian vegetation, stabilising banks, and protecting key ecological areas, we not only reduce sediment runoff but also enhance habitat, increase biodiversity, and support more resilient farming systems. These are the kinds of collaborative, evidence-based efforts that contribute directly to the Reef 2050 vision of a healthy Reef and a sustainable future.

Project Details

This work has been delivered through several key projects over recent years. Initial stages were supported by the Reef Trust 4 Program (funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust), with major works commencing in 2020 including streambank stabilisation, revegetation, and 3.4 km of riparian fencing. In 2024, further improvements were delivered through the Streambank Remediation Program – O’Connell Sites Project (funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and the Australian Government’s Reef Trust), focusing on engineered works to protect high-value remnant vegetation. Most recently, ongoing efforts are continuing under the MWI Landscape Repair Program (also funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust), with additional fencing, weed control, and revegetation planned into the 2025–2026 financial year.

At this property alone, over 7km of streambank has been stabilised and restored through strategic riparian fencing, revegetation, and erosion control, made possible through several completed and ongoing projects.including the Australian Governments Reef Trust 4 Program, the Queensland Government’s Queensland Streambank Remediation Program – O’Connell Sites project, the Preparing Australian Communities – Nature Based Solutions to Build Regional Resilience project and the Australian Government Reef Trust Mackay Whitsunday Isaac Landscape Repair Program. With ongoing collaboration between Reef Catchments, multiple funding sources, landholder Peter Baretta, and local contractors GM Grader Hire, Strathdickie Plant Hire and Jeppesen Farming Co., this large-scale reach remediation approach is possible.”

Hard vs Soft Corals

Leonie · Aug 15, 2025 · Leave a Comment

If you’re a snorkeller, diver, swimmer or avid boatie, you’re no stranger to the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Named one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it draws people from every corner of the globe; each hoping to catch a glimpse of its vast, colourful, living seascape.

Even from above the water, you can see a patchwork of colour and movement. Fish flicker between coral outcrops. Sea turtles cruise past bommies. You may even see a ray or two. Below the surface, a network of coral structures stretches in all directions – some soft and flowing with the current, others rigid, branching, and built like underwater architecture. The beauty is awe-inspiring, but to the trained eye, there’s also a story about the reef unfolding.

That subtle difference between the flexible, fabric-like corals and their solid, stone-like neighbours reveals more than just variation. It can reveal insights about the underlying health and resilience of the reef itself.

Underwater image of a snorkeler swimming over coral reef, which is surrounded by schools of small blue fish. — Great Barrier Reef

Hard corals form skeletons, which in turn form the backbone of the Great Barrier Reef. These reef-building species have skeletons, and therefore as they grow, they slowly deposit calcium carbonate creating solid structures that serve as the reef’s foundation. Whether branching like staghorn, dome-shaped like brain coral, or flat and plate-like, hard corals create the three-dimensional framework that supports entire reef communities.

This complex structure is a large part of what gives coral reefs their function. It provides homes, breeding grounds, and shelter for thousands of marine species, ranging from tiny invertebrates to reef fish, sharks, and rays. Hard corals also help absorb wave energy, playing a vital role in protecting coastlines against extreme weather events and maintaining coastal ecosystems.

Close up underwater image of hard corals and small reef fish swimming around them. — Hard coral out plants as part of Coral Nurture Program, image courtesy J.Edmondson

In contrast, soft corals serve a different purpose. Lacking a hard skeleton, they appear more flexible and often resemble underwater plants or fans. Often these are the corals you will see swaying in the current. Soft corals also provide habitat and contribute to biodiversity but don’t form the reef’s structure.

Underwater shot of green sea turtle swimming through soft corals — Green Sea Turtle resting amongst soft corals

As Cass Hayward, Reef Catchments Great Barrier Reef Team Manager, puts it:

“Both soft and hard corals have roles in the ecosystem, but it’s really the hard corals that we have to thank for building the reef’s structure over thousands and millions of years.”

The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is the largest coral reef system on Earth, spanning more than 2,300 kilometres. It’s so vast it can be seen from space. It’s also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value; environmentally, culturally, and economically.

Coral reefs like the GBR support around 25% of all marine life despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. They also provide vital coastal protection against extreme weather events, support fisheries, attract tourism, and play a key role in nutrient cycling. And hard corals are at the centre of it all.

“When scientists and reef managers check on how the reef is doing, they usually start by looking at the hard coral. If there’s high cover and diversity of hard corals, it is an indicator of good reef health and resilience. If we see declines in hard coral, which can often be accompanied by an increase in soft coral, it can be a warning sign often related to things like poorer water quality, too much sediment or nutrients, or ongoing stress.” – Cass Hayward.

Across the reef, researchers, Traditional Owners, tourism operators and community members are researching and trialling ways to actively assist coral recovery. Programs like the Coral Nurture Program research and optimise reef restoration methods that centre around growing and reattaching coral fragments within degraded reef areas, while Boats4Corals examines the potential for transplanting coral larvae to sites that need a helping hand in recovery.

These targeted efforts are designed to give hard corals a head start, helping rebuild structure, restore habitat, and maintain the reef’s natural resilience.

Images of Tourism Operators during Coral restoration projects — Whitsunday Reef Islands Initiative Project Partners

Coral Nurture Program and Boats4Corals are part of the Whitsunday Reef Islands Initiative. The Reef Islands Initiative is a Great Barrier Reef Foundation program, supported by funding from Lendlease, the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland Government and the Fitzgerald Family Foundation.

Learning from the Land

Leonie · Jun 30, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Learning from the Land: Why Walking the Paddocks Leads to Smarter Funding

A bright winter’s morning at Mt Ossa set the scene for a recent visit showcasing innovation, resilience, and the power of strong local connections in sustainable agriculture.

It’s about understanding what’s working on the ground and hearing directly from landholders,” said Chris Gogala, Assistant Director in the Sustainable Agriculture Branch from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Chris, who travelled from Canberra, was joined by Sustainable Agriculture Governance Officer Machaela Naidoo, as part of a broader regional tour to meet stakeholders and observe sustainable agriculture projects in action across North Queensland.

Reef Catchments’ Sustainable Agriculture Manager Todd McNeill and Facilitator Kellie Harmsworth hosted the visit, taking the DAFF team to the Mt Ossa property of Ken and Mary Ede of Longmile Mangoes — long-time collaborators with Reef Catchments and strong advocates for sustainable agriculture. The Edes’ farm is primarily focused on mango production but also supports mixed cattle and pasture hens. It’s a living example of progressive farming techniques grounded in soil health and practical innovation.

Over the years, Ken and Mary have taken part in several regional workshops, including the Grazing Forum and Soil Symposium, and accessed grant support to trial and implement changes that have helped reduce input costs and boost production, while supporting improvements in soil health and environmental outcomes. A core focus for them has been soil improvement, something they’ve pursued through sustainable farming practices and homemade fish and kelp-based biofertilisers.

Chris Golgoa (DAF) and Ken Ede discussing biofertiliser — Chris Golgoa and Ken Ede discussing home made biofertilser

Ken Ede showing his mango packing production line — Ken showing his mango processing and packing line

Ken Ede, Todd McNeill, Chris Golgoa and Michaela Naidoo viewing soil testing results — Ken Ede showing the results of several soil testing trials

“It doesn’t smell great,” Ken joked, “but the results speak for themselves.” Soil testing across the property has shown clear improvements, though Ken is quick to note the variability across the farm’s landscape. “What works in one paddock, or one property might not work in another. That’s why learning and experimenting is so important.”

Chris and Machaela were able to see this firsthand, walking through the Edes’ fertiliser production area, viewing their custom fertiliser spreader, and visiting the mango packing shed where Ken shared insights into the R2E2 mango variety. “We usually average packing about 10 per box, compared to the industry standard of 12-14,” he said, proudly noting the size and quality of the fruit.

Over a relaxed morning tea on the shady veranda, with views over the garden and cattle fields, Ken shared data from his latest soil tests and spoke candidly about the journey of trial, error, and refinement that has shaped their approach.

Todd McNeill echoed the importance of visits like this. “Ken and Mary embody what sustainable agriculture is all about. Their willingness to adapt, learn, and share their experience builds resilience in their own operation and inspires others across the region. They’re not just great land managers, they’re terrific advocates for positive change.”

The visit was a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration between government, local organisations like Reef Catchments, and the people who work the land every day. It’s through these shared experiences that ideas grow, solutions take root, and agriculture in the region is better positioned to face future challenges.

Erosion Soil Sampling for Streambank Stability

Leonie · Jun 6, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Erosion Soil Sampling for Streambank Stability

by Emily Wilson, Project Officer – Waterways

Earlier this month, my colleague Kelsey Marek and I assisted with erosion soil sampling at a streambank site along the O’Connell River. This is one of the erosion sites we are hoping to remediate as part of Reef Trust’s Landscape Repair Program.

Due to the steepness of the bank, Reef Catchments engaged a local drilling contractor to collect samples from the surface down to a depth of 6m – which helped avoid safety risks and spared us from the usual dirt-covered venture of a typical soil sampling day.

Analysing the soil allows us to assess erosion risk by calculating dry bulk density and the proportion of fine sediment particles (like silt and clay), which contribute to sediment runoff into the Great Barrier Reef. This information helps us estimate sediment yields, and design targeted, cost effective erosion control treatments.

Back in the office, we took over the hallway to lay out the full 6m of soil samples – fortunately it was a quiet day in the office! Laying out the samples, we examined the different soil layers, noting changes in colour, texture, structure, moisture and strength before sending them off to a lab for analysis.

Seeing the full 6m profile laid out was a great reminder of how much variability exists below the surface and just how quickly soil characteristics can change from one layer to the next. Using erosion soil sampling to understand the soil helps us design more effective erosion control solutions, helping farmers protect valuable agricultural land, and reducing sediment runoff into waterways and the Great Barrier Reef, which impacts reef resilience and biodiversity.

erosion soil samples evaluation at the office Reef Catchments NRM

The Waterways team is dedicated to working with landholders to achieve big outcomes within the waterways space.

See more information on projects being carried our by our Waterways team.

World Environment Day: Local Actions, Global Impact

Leonie · Jun 5, 2025 · Leave a Comment

At Reef Catchments, World Environment Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a timely reminder of how local action, when done with care and purpose, can ripple outward to create real, lasting change. While global headlines focus on large-scale environmental challenges, we see every day how small, consistent efforts right here in our region are helping protect the planet, starting in our own backyard!

Our work in natural resource management is grounded in practical, science-based approaches that care for land, water, and biodiversity. Whether it’s stabilising streambanks to prevent erosion, supporting farmers in adopting water-smart practices, or planting native vegetation to restore critical habitats, each project we take on is a piece of a much larger puzzle. Together, these efforts contribute to improved water quality flowing into the Great Barrier Reef and stronger, more resilient ecosystems across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac region.

On any given day, you’ll find our teams and partners working in the field, removing invasive weeds, planting native trees, monitoring soil and water health, and engaging with landholders to support sustainable agriculture. These actions may seem small in isolation, but collectively they build healthier landscapes, protect threatened species, and help communities better adapt to a changing climate.

Importantly, our work is only possible through the power of community. From school groups helping plant trees, to landholders trialing new grazing or cropping methods, to volunteers joining beach clean-ups and citizen science projects, local people are at the heart of every success. Their passion and commitment are proof that everyone has a role to play.

On World Environment Day, we celebrate these everyday efforts. They show us that we don’t have to wait for global agreements to make a difference. Every weed pulled, every tree planted, every thoughtful decision on the land is a step toward a healthier future.

This year’s theme“ Our land. Our future.” couldn’t be more relevant. When we care for the environment around us, we’re investing not just in the health of the planet, but in the well-being of future generations.

Let’s continue working together to protect what makes our region special, its natural beauty, biodiversity, and strong, connected communities. Because when local action is consistent and community-driven, it adds up to something powerful. And that’s worth celebrating! Not just today, but every day.

Out and about: Mirani Primary School learns about erosion

Leonie · Jun 2, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Out and about: Mirani Primary School learns about erosion

On Tuesday 27th May, Liana and Alyce from the Waterways Team at Reef Catchments had the pleasure of visiting Mirani State Primary School to deliver an engaging and educational presentation to 95 enthusiastic Year 5 and 6 students.

The session focused on erosion and its impact on land, water quality, and the Great Barrier Reef. Students learnt what erosion is, how it forms and why it matters including its links to land loss, water pollution, and reef health. The session also explored how we can both fix and prevent it through sustainable land practices.

A highlight of the session was the interactive demonstration, featuring toy animals and marine creatures, which helped students visualise how erosion travels from paddocks to the reef, affecting both farmers and marine ecosystems. The use of local examples made the learning experience relatable and impactful, with students particularly enjoying the real-life context and participation.

Our key message was clear: Rebuild, revegetate, and support sustainable practices — because the health of our land directly influences one of the seven natural wonders of the world, our Great Barrier Reef.

Demonstration of water flowing from paddock to reef

Seagrass Watch Level 1

Leonie · May 26, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Reef Catchments organised a Seagrass-Watch Level 1 training session in the stunning Whitsundays, welcoming a great crew of local community members and citizen scientists. This hands-on training was part of the Upscaling Seagrow project and aimed to build local capacity to monitor and protect our vital seagrass meadows. Participants learned how to identify seagrass species, record data accurately, and contribute to long-term monitoring efforts that support the health of the Great Barrier Reef. Big thanks to everyone who joined us — your involvement is key to helping our marine ecosystems thrive!

Stay tuned for upcoming monitoring events and ways to get involved. The more support we have on the ground (and in the water!), the better our chances of keeping seagrass healthy and resilient.

A huge thank you to Deja Brew Café & Catering for the delicious catering!

Seagrass restoration and research in the Whitsundays is delivered by CMERC, Reef Catchments, and OzFish Unlimited in partnership with the community. The project is funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Reef Islands Initiative, which is supported by Lendlease, the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland Government, and the Fitzgerald Family Foundation.

Solar Installed at Mackay Office

Leonie · May 26, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Earth Day 2025 was a global reminder that the future of our planet lies in the choices we make today. This year’s theme, Our Power, Our Planet, calls on all of us consider switching to renewable energy where possible and take tangible steps to reduce our environmental footprint.

Collective action is powerful, but real progress requires businesses and organisations to lead by example. As stewards of our regional environment, we have a responsibility to both advocate for sustainable practices AND to actively embed it into our operations.

At Reef Catchments, sustainability is fundamental to how we operate, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve. Our recent energy audit highlighted an opportunity to leverage alternative energy sources, driving us to install a 39.6kW solar system at our Mackay office. This system is projected to have the environmental impact equivalent to planting 1,195 trees – a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint.

This initiative has sparked the creation of a Green Team. This team is now leading the charge in implementing sustainable practices throughout Reef Catchments, ensuring that sustainability becomes an integral part of our organisational culture.

Reef Catchments is committed to driving meaningful change—both through sustainable operations and long-term initiatives that improve, sustain, and enhance our region’s natural resource, now and in the future.

Thank you to Green Energy Technologies for the seamless installation and amazing photos of our new system.

Freshwater Mussels Spotted at Murray Creek Remediation Site!

Leonie · May 26, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Landscape Repair Project

Freshwater mussels spotted along the scenic Murray Creek! These fascinating creatures are true ecosystem engineers — they reshape riverbeds by burrowing, enhance water quality through filtration, support other wildlife by offering food, and contribute to nutrient cycling in the ecosystem.

We’re always thrilled to see these little gems at our streambank sites, as their presence is a strong sign of healthy water quality. Streambank remediation is being delivered along Murray Creek, as part of the Mackay Whitsunday Landscape Repair Program. Find out more about the project here.

The Mackay Whitsunday Isaac Landscape Repair Program is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.

Early Mornings in Sandringham – Water Quality Monitoring

Leonie · May 26, 2025 · Leave a Comment

Sandringham Wetlands Complex

In partnership with Associate Professor Nathan Waltham TropWATER and with funding from Great Barrier Reef Foundation, we’re back at Sandringham Wetland Complex for our second year of water quality monitoring following the rehabilitation works completed in 2023!

Why does this matter? This research helps us track how effectively the wetland is trapping fine sediment and reducing nutrient loads before water flows into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. Healthy wetlands can provide a role in processing water quality nutrients and sediment, improving water quality and protecting our marine ecosystems.

To ensure the best possible data, we’re starting at sunrise (with some incredible views to show for it!) and collecting water samples early ensure they reach the JCU labs in Townsville the same day for processing. This fast turnaround is essential for accurate results that help us understand the true impact of wetland restoration.

Check out the Sandringham Wetlands Complex project here.

Photo Credit: Senior Project Officer (Biodiversity), Carlos Bueno. The project is supported by Reef Catchments through funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust Program.

Annual Report 2023-2024

Leonie · Oct 28, 2024 · Leave a Comment

Reef Catchments Annual Report for the 2023-2024 Financial Year.

Throughout the year our teams have been busy wrapping up a range of long term projects. We’re proud to showcase the results in this report, which includes a summary of the year from our Chair and CEO along with highlights of project achievements, videos, images and links that allow you to enjoy additional information. Explore our project groups and meet our amazing team as they share their achievements for the year.

View Reef Catchments Annual Report 2023-2024

With thanks to our funding providers, stakeholders and local community.

From the mountains to the sea – Resilient ecosystems, engaged community.

Reef Catchments is your Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

Annual Report RCL 2022-2023

Leonie · Nov 2, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Reef Catchments is proud to present our Annual Report for the 2022-2023 Financial Year.

It’s been a busy year and this report includes a summary of the year from our Chair and CEO along with highlights of project achievements, videos, images and links that allow you to enjoy additional information. Explore our project groups and meet our amazing team as they share their achievements for the year.

View annual report

With thanks to our funding providers, stakeholders and local community.