A History of C4

A legacy of resilience and advocacy.

The Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation (C4) has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship in Mission Beach, Queensland, for decades. The organisation’s story is woven from the efforts of passionate and dedicated conservationists, driven to protect the Cassowary Coast’s unique ecosystems and endangered cassowary populations. This history showcases the evolution of conservation efforts from grassroots beginnings to an influential community voice for sustainable development.

1. Foundations of Conservation (1980s)
2. Emergence of Cassowary Conservation (1990s)
3. Foundation of Present-Day C4 (1994)
4. Growth, Adversity, and Resilience (1990s – 2000s)
5. Expansion and New Challenges (2000s)
6. Building momentum for conservation (2000s – present)

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1980s: Foundations of Conservation

The Wildlife Preservation Society Queensland (WPSQ) Tully and Innisfail Branches

The modern conservation movement in Mission Beach began in the early 1980s, when the Tully branch of the Wildlife Preservation Society Queensland (WPSQ) rallied against development threats to natural areas. Founders included Margaret and Arthur Thorsborne, Sue Smith, Joe Galeano, and Pat Turner, among others, who shared a profound concern for the Southern Cassowary’s declining numbers and the broader ecological health of the region.

Their efforts centred on protecting the cassowary’s rainforest habitat, often engaging local communities in awareness and advocacy. This momentum set the stage for the establishment of additional conservation initiatives in the area, igniting a wave of support for protecting the natural world.

Movement for Responsible Coastal Development (MRCD)

In 1990, the Movement for Responsible Coastal Development (MRCD) was born out of opposition to the Nolan Report, which proposed intensive coastal development. Karen Schmidt, Lyn Overton, and Joan Bentrupperbaumer were instrumental in creating MRCD, a group focused on “responsible development”—ensuring that human needs were met without compromising the environment. As stated in their founding newsletter:

“The Members of M.R.C.D. are not NIMBYs nor radical greenies; they are simply individuals who love the very special, unique environment in which they have chosen to live.”

Protecting Kennedy Bay: 25 Years On (2019), Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, p. 19. (PDF ↗)

MRCD’s activities soon expanded, with volunteers working tirelessly to raise awareness, manage development concerns, and maintain the natural landscape of Mission Beach.

Early 1990s: Emergence of Cassowary Conservation

Formation of the Consultative Committee for Cassowary Conservation (C4)

By the early 1990s, the Southern Cassowary’s plight became a regional symbol for conservation. With support from the Goss Government and encouragement from Minister Pat Comben, who was particularly invested in cassowary conservation, the Consultative Committee for Cassowary Conservation (the original C4) was established in 1991. This group—comprising local government representatives, MRCD members, and other stakeholders—pioneered a model of community and government partnership that was groundbreaking for its time in Queensland.

In Chris Mance’s words:

“The reason why the Consultative Committee for Cassowary Conservation (C4) was able to get off the ground was that there was a group of people who…had the vision and put in the huge effort to oppose inappropriate development.” 

Protecting Kennedy Bay: 25 Years On (2019), Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, p. 21. (PDF ↗)

C4’s goal was to secure the cassowary’s habitat, and the organisation quickly took on this vital responsibility as the central advocacy body for the endangered bird.

Bridging Environment and Local Government: The Mission Beach Development Control Plan (DCP)

In 1993, Ross Overton, the brother of C4 co-founder Lyn Overton, became Mayor of Johnstone Shire, ushering in a pivotal era for C4’s influence on local policy. Under his leadership, Ross collaborated with C4 to conduct a comprehensive conservation audit of the Shire, which led to the creation of the Mission Beach Development Control Plan (DCP). 

The DCP set a benchmark for environmentally sustainable development by integrating public input to safeguard cassowary habitats, promote eco-tourism, and preserve the unique lifestyle of the region. Both MRCD (represented by Chris Mance), and C4 held seats on the DCP steering committee, alongside representatives from Cardwell and Johnstone Shires, National Parks, the Lands Department, the tourism and real estate industries, CSIRO, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Ross Overton’s alignment with C4’s mission provided the group with an invaluable ally within local government, enabling conservation priorities to directly shape policy. This collaboration not only empowered C4 but also brought international acclaim, with the DCP receiving the prestigious United Nations Local Agenda 21 Model Community Award. The DCP remains a landmark in C4’s history, exemplifying a balanced approach to development that prioritises environmental preservation and community welfare.

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1994: Formation of Present-Day C4

A Unified Voice for Conservation

In 1994, MRDC and the original C4 officially merged to form the Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation Inc., widening C4’s mission to include both cassowary protection and sustainable coastal development. With a larger network and a stronger voice, the new C4 became the region’s environmental pillar, advocating for the cassowary and influencing conservation policy.

Late 1990s to 2000s: Growth, Adversity, and Resilience

Expanding Initiatives and Educational Outreach

As C4 expanded, so did its community programs and educational efforts. C4 opened its Environment Centre –- a dedicated facility with interpretive displays, books and resources – and eventually the Norm Byrnes Arboretum, which serves as a lasting tribute to the area’s rich biodiversity. Volunteers, including local artists, contributed to the Environment Centre, decorating it with murals and exhibits that continue to engage and educate the public.

The Fire of 1994 and Rebirth

Tragedy struck on New Year’s Eve of 1994/95 when C4’s headquarters burned down, a suspected case of arson. However, rather than a setback, this event became a catalyst for renewal. The community rallied to rebuild, and with funds from the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) and insurance, C4 emerged stronger than before. By October 1995, the newly constructed complex, equipped with a theatre and fire-proof archive room, opened its doors, symbolising the resilience of the conservation movement in Mission Beach.

Late 1990s to 2000s: Expansion and new challenges

Strengthening Partnerships and Community Initiatives

In 1998, Johnstone Shire Council appointed Mark Gordon as Conservation Officer to negotiate voluntary conservation agreements with private landowners. Through education and incentives, Gordon succeeded in embedding conservation covenants into numerous land titles in Mission Beach, helping landowners understand the long-term benefits of environmental preservation. 

C4’s Advocacy on Development Issues

C4’s persistence in advocating for responsible development was evident in key victories and challenges. In the mid-1990s, they won a court case to halt a large resort development at Garners Beach and, after a vigorous campaign, managed to limit the scale of the Oasis Subdivision Scheme. However, not all outcomes were favourable. In 2006, C4 faced a setback when the Planning and Environment Court ruled against them in a case involving a 105-acre subdivision at Narragon Beach, reflecting the ongoing struggles to preserve rural conservation areas amidst development pressures.

2000s: Building momentum for conservation

C4’s Role in Infrastructure and Cyclone Recovery

In the early 2000s, C4 engaged with Main Roads to reduce the speed limit on the El Arish-Mission Beach Road from 100 km/h to 80 km/h, a measure aimed at minimising vehicle-cassowary collisions. Brenda Harvey of C4 worked closely with Main Roads on this project for over eighteen months, overcoming substantial public opposition. Following Cyclone Larry in 2006, C4 strengthened ties with the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA), collaborating to limit excessive clearing and advocating for tree planting along the upgraded El Arish road to restore habitat and protect cassowaries.

The Garrett Corridor and Expanded National Park Protections

In 2007, C4, along with Environment Minister Peter Garrett, achieved a significant milestone with the designation of the Garrett Corridor, a protected area that connects key habitats, allowing cassowaries to safely travel between territories. This corridor was part of C4’s broader success in converting nearly 1,000 hectares of Crown Land to National Park status, solidifying their impact on habitat protection and conservation policy.

Into the present: A legacy of resilience and advocacy

Today, C4 continues to be an influential voice for conservation in Mission Beach, its efforts woven into the fabric of local policy and community values. Through collaboration with government agencies, advocacy for responsible development, and dedication to education and community engagement, C4 remains steadfast in its mission. The organisation’s achievements, from the Mission Beach DCP to the Garrett Corridor, serve as lasting examples of community-driven conservation, ensuring that the Cassowary Coast’s unique ecosystems will be safeguarded for generations to come.

References: 

Tandy, Kirsty, “Protecting Kennedy Bay: 25 years on. The History of the Conservation Movement at Mission Beach during the Modern Era from 1982 to 2007” (PDF ↗)