Upper Dawson Branch

What we do

Projects:

• Ongoing environmental DNA (eDNA) testing for the presence of platypus in the Dawson River.
• In 2020, we completed the construction of a bird hide on the bank of Castle Creek in Theodore. In 2022, interpretive signage was placed along the walkway to the hide, and First Nations art was added to the walls of the hide. Native bird-attracting shrubs and vines have also been planted around the hide.

Advocacy and planning:

• We endeavour to respond to developmental proposals for our catchment.
• We write to various levels of government to take stronger action to prevent damage to water, soil, and ecosystems through inappropriate development and under-resourcing of protected areas.
• We have had input into Shire and State Environmental Plans and Stock Route management plans.
• We continue to support the Banana Shire in its cat management program.
• We collaborate with natural resource management associations.

Community engagement and education:

• Our branch organises regular outings for branch members and members of the community to Central Queensland’s National Parks, sandstone gorges, gas fields, coal mines, boggomosses, wetlands and forests.
• We publish a monthly newsletter to keep members and communities up-to-date with our activities.
• Our branch holds four meetings a year at locally significant sites, and visitors are welcome.