The Yandina Creek Wetland has transformed into a bird watcher’s delight, with a new 1.7km (return) walking trail and native bird viewing hide open to the public.
With COVID-19 restrictions easing from this weekend, the community can now enjoy the site and all it has to offer, while adhering to public health directions.
More than 100 bird species call the wetland home and other flora and fauna are thriving.
The wetland forms part of the Blue Heart Sunshine Coast, an Australian-first partnership announced last year between Unitywater, Sunshine Coast Council and the Department of Environment and Science to protect and manage more than 5000 hectares of natural floodplain in the Maroochy River Catchment.
Unitywater Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions Amanda Creevey said plants in the Yandina Creek Wetland took up nutrients and sediments from the water to improve water quality and overall river health.
“An added bonus of the wetland is the boost in biodiversity we’re seeing, including increased marine life, mangroves and wetland plants, and birds, with some migratory birds even returning to the site,” she said.
“The addition of the trail walk and bird viewing hide means we get to bring the community along for the ride, take a walk with nature and maybe spot some of the incredible creatures here.
“With COVID-19 restrictions easing we’re proud to provide this environmental facility to our community. We see it as the beginning of an environmental hub in this area.”
Ms Creevey encouraged anyone visiting the wetland to wear long-sleeved clothing and carry mosquito repellent, as well as following social distancing and hygiene measures.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Blue Heart beats strongly within the Sunshine Coast and the addition of the walking trail added to the opportunities that it would provide for the region and its landscape for decades to come.
“Through the Blue Heart we’re continuing to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and enhancing our natural assets,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“Importantly, the Blue Heart is another tangible demonstration of how our Council is working with its partners to strengthen our region’s climate resilience and taking real action to assist our communities to adapt to a changing climate.”
The wetland trail walk is located at 362-328 River Road, Yandina.
For more information please visit www.unitywater.com/yandina-creek
