New Nature Refuge Declared Near Mackay

Queensland’s protected area network has grown by more than 90,000 hectares following the declaration of two new private nature refuges, including one located just north-west of Mackay.

The newly declared Urannah Nature Refuge spans 32,877 hectares around 80 kilometres north-west of Mackay and plays a vital role in protecting critical habitat for threatened species, including the elusive Irwin’s turtle. The refuge also strengthens environmental connections by linking directly with Eungella National Park, Macartney State Forest and Sandy Falls Nature Refuge, while enhancing waterway protection for the Broken River catchment.

The second refuge, Watson River Nature Refuge, covers 57,283 hectares on Cape York Peninsula, approximately 140 kilometres south-east of Weipa. It protects threatened species and regional ecosystems and provides important catchment protection for the Watson River, while improving landscape connectivity with surrounding national parks and existing nature refuges.

Both refuges were established through a joint investment by the Queensland and Australian governments aimed at boosting conservation efforts on private land.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the new refuges highlighted the importance of collaboration between governments and landholders.

“This expansion shows Queensland is serious about protecting what makes us unique – our incredible natural environment,” Minister Powell said.

“Nature refuges are a smart way to protect what makes Queensland so special while keeping the land productive, supporting grazing, tourism and conservation side by side.”

The refuges were made possible through the $4.1 million NatureAssist Round 11 grants, jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments. Since launching in 2007, NatureAssist has delivered more than $19 million across 132 projects, adding thousands of hectares to Queensland’s protected area estate.

Private protected areas now make up around one-third of Queensland’s total protected network, which spans more than 14.9 million hectares. These areas are especially important for biodiversity, with 62 per cent of Queensland’s regional ecosystem types found on privately protected land.
Nature refuges are created voluntarily under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, allowing landholders to protect unique landscapes and species while continuing sustainable land use.

The Queensland Government is currently reviewing feedback from a public consultation on private protected areas, with plans to strengthen and expand the program, which marked its 31st year in 2025.

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Watson River Nature Refuge (pictured) and Urannah Nature Refuge are now officially protected areas. Photo supplied

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