From Cattle Creek To The Coral Reef

Government Delivers Major Boost for Mackay Conservation

The Crisafulli Government has announced a $7.8 million investment to support land, soil, water and biodiversity projects across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions, delivering a major boost for local conservation and community-led environmental initiatives.

The funding, part of the government’s Natural Resources Management Expansion Program (NRMEP), will help restore waterways, protect coastal reefs, and enhance wildlife habitats throughout the Mackay region — from Cattle Creek to the Coral Reef.

Reef Catchments will receive more than $4.8 million to restore eight kilometres of streambank along Cattle Creek, strengthen riparian corridors, enhance in-stream habitats, and reduce sediment flow into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

A further $1.9 million will connect 57 hectares of koala habitat from South Koumala to north of Eton, while nearly $1 million will fund inshore reef restoration through Coral IVF techniques and reseeding of seagrass meadows in Pioneer Bay.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the investment will deliver tangible environmental outcomes by empowering local expertise.

“This funding is about backing real action, by supporting local experts who understand their region and what it takes to protect it,” Minister Last said.

“These projects will deliver real on-ground results for our environment and the communities who depend on healthy landscapes and waterways.

“During Labor’s decade of decline, NRM groups were left high and dry without the meaningful funding they need to support the great work they do across Queensland.

“Through our $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, the Crisafulli Government is giving those groups certainty by supporting the people who know their regions best.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the investment reflects the government’s commitment to long-term, practical outcomes.

“These projects will improve water quality, protect wildlife and support local jobs — and they’re happening right here in our backyard,” Mr Dalton said.

“This funding recognises the importance of local stewardship and is a major boost for our communities.”

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said the announcement highlights the government’s focus on regional sustainability.

“From protecting koala habitat to restoring critical waterways, this is the Crisafulli Government backing local solutions and restoring trust in regional investment,” Mr Kelly said.
“Healthy ecosystems mean stronger farming, more resilient communities and better outcomes for future generations.”

Reef Catchments CEO Katrina Dent said the funding would help target priority areas for biodiversity restoration.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the Queensland Government's investment in natural resource management through the NRMEP,” Ms Dent said.

“This funding will allow us to scale up our efforts for critical ecosystems and to target hot spot areas where previous weather events have damaged key parts of the region.”

The funding marks a major milestone for the Mackay region, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable land and water management across Queensland.

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