PROJECT UPDATE: We have commenced a major weed management project in partnership with the Djiru Warrangburra Aboriginal Corporation and Terrain NRM, targeting invasive weed species along Boyett Road in Mission Beach.
This work is funded through Terrain NRM under the RDP Forest Resilience programme. Over the life of the project, 22 hectares of high conservation value lowland tropical rainforest—some of it Indigenous Protected Area—will be treated for invasive species.
Why Boyett Road?
The rainforest flanking Boyett Road is a highly biodiverse ecosystem growing on basalt soils with maritime climate conditions—some of the most optimal rainforest conditions in Australia. Surveys confirm this site supports Littoral rainforest and contains culturally significant trees, including Slippery Fig, adjacent to a Djiru ceremonial ground.
The forest core remains largely intact; however, historic dumping and encroachment along property boundaries have introduced a limited but concerning range of invasive species. These weeds are putting pressure on native biodiversity and threatening the ecological integrity of this important habitat.
What We Found
Surveys conducted in collaboration with Djiru rangers, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, and Terrain NRM identified priority weeds including:
- Syngonium (Arrowhead vine)
- Pothos and Philodendron species
- Singapore Daisy
- Brazilian Fireweed
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb cane)
- Dracaena species
- Bamboo
- Alamanda
- Bromeliads and Costus Ginger
These species are particularly aggressive in edge zones where historic disturbance has allowed them to gain a foothold. Some, like Syngonium and Epipremnum, are capable climbers that can move deep into the rainforest through treefall gaps.
Our Approach
We are applying a staged approach to this work:
- Baseline survey and mapping: Detailed mapping of weed hotspots has been completed. Weed presence is most concentrated along the western and eastern boundaries, particularly where residential properties abut the park.
- Manual removal and targeted herbicide treatment: Where safe and feasible, weeds will be manually removed before regrowth is treated with approved herbicides.
- Cultural considerations: No material will be removed from site, and culturally significant species will be recorded and protected. Djiru Traditional Owners are actively involved in survey, treatment, and planning activities.
- Community engagement: As the project progresses, C4 and Djiru partners will deliver an information campaign for Clump Point residents, highlighting the risks of garden waste dumping and steps landholders can take to help reduce weed spread.
What’s Next
Initial treatments are now underway across 10 hectares, with follow-up work planned across the remaining area by August 2025. A factsheet is being developed to assist with community education, and signage will be installed to deter further dumping.
This project not only helps protect critical cassowary habitat, but also supports Djiru cultural stewardship of Country, promotes resilience of endangered rainforest ecosystems, and deepens collaboration between local community organisations and land managers.