Friday 26 September 2025
A significant environmental rehabilitation project is underway at the Port of Brisbane, with Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd (PBPL) partnering with the Bulimba Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee (B4C) to restore native vegetation and protect critical coastal habitats.
The Whyte Island site is home to saltmarsh, mangrove, and forest ecosystems, and lies adjacent to a large claypan that serves as a vital roosting and feeding ground for thousands of migratory shorebirds.
PBPL CEO Neil Stephens said the restoration works, which began in 2024, are enhancing the ecological integrity of the area.
“This site holds significant environmental value,” Mr Stephens said. “Since commencing the project, we’ve removed invasive species and weeds, installed 10 micro bat boxes, installed fencing to stop unauthorised access, and planted more than 6,200 native plants to accelerate regeneration.
“We’ve also seen significant rehabilitation of sensitive estuarine wetland and saltmarsh and a 20-40% increase in recent shorebird counts compared to previous years.”
To date, over 7 hectares have been rehabilitated in line with the Queensland Herbarium BioCondition assessment framework.
“We’re also looking at future opportunities to open the area for low-impact access by environmental and educational groups,” said Mr Stephens. “It’s a unique natural asset, and we’re committed to sharing it in a way that respects and preserves its ecological significance.”
The rehabilitation plan has been developed and delivered in collaboration with B4C, First Nations contractor Tuff Yards, and environmental consultants BMT.