Site preparation has begun for a new 0.5-hectare restoration area at Gurrbum Nature Refuge in Maadi, marking the next stage in our long-term vision to protect and expand cassowary habitat along the Smiths Gap area. This project is proudly supported by the Australian Government, Terrain NRM, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, and C4.
An important area for connectivity
Gurrbum is a critical ecological corridor linking Tully Gorge National Park, Japoon National Park, and the Walter Hill Conservation Park. Its wetlands, riparian areas and rainforest fringes provide habitat for the Southern Cassowary and other threatened species that rely on connected rainforest to survive and move safely across the landscape.
Once cleared for commercial crops, the property was purchased for conservation in 2019 with help from QTFN. Since then, ongoing restoration has focused on reconnecting fragmented habitat and supporting the return of native rainforest to the site.
Our rehabilitation goals
The project follows our detailed Gurrbum Revegetation and Rehabilitation Plan, which aims to:
• Re-establish rainforest vegetation on previously cleared land
• Manage invasive weeds and improve ecosystem resilience
• Strengthen streamside vegetation along Coolyn Creek tributaries
• Support cassowary movement across the Smiths Gap corridor
This new planting area will feature a mix of fast-growing pioneer species and slower-growing later successional species to encourage canopy closure and natural regeneration over time.
What’s happening now
Having just restored our access road to the site, initial weed control and site preparation have begun.
Planting is scheduled for December, timed with the arrival of the wet season to give young rainforest seedlings the best chance of success. A two-year maintenance program will follow to ensure strong establishment.
Join us on the ground!
We’re starting the new year with a Community Planting at Gurrbum on January 7th — and we’d love your help! RSVP to attend this tree planting here: https://cassowaryconservation.org/events/c4-community-tree-planting/
