In February this year Queensland’s first six rivers “Wild Rivers” were finally declared in state parliament. Located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Hinchinbrook and Fraser islands, the formal protection of these rivers under Queensland’s progressive Wild Rivers Act 2005 was a landmark moment for river conservation in Australia. It signaled the embedding of the nations first Legislation with the sole purpose of protecting free flowing rivers.

The first six rivers – largely untouched by modern development with natural flows and function still intact – are now protected from major threatening activities such as dams and weir construction and large-scale irrigation. By protecting the natural flows whilst still allowing important day-to-day activities like fishing, camping, hunting and feeding stock, the declaration of these rivers is an important boost to local fishing and tourism industries, particularly in the Gulf Country. With the Queensland Government committed to employing up to 100 Indigenous Rangers to manage Wild Rivers in Northern Queensland, this river conservation initiative will also increase employment opportunities for Indigenous communities.

Cape York Peninsula in Northern Queensland – one of the most intact wilderness areas remaining on Earth – is the next area targeted for Wild River protection. There are 13 Cape York rivers currently being considered for Wild River declarations, encompassing all but a cluster of catchments near the mining town of Weipa.

These vast monsoonal rivers and their natural flows are vital for the healthy function of the landscape and the long-term survival of many unique animal and plant species.

Cape York’s Wild Rivers are also vital to the communities and culture of region, maintaining important ecosystem services such as the provision of freshwater, food and recreation, as well as providing the backbone for a bourgeoning nature-based tourism industry. They have been managed over the millennia by their traditional owners, whose connections to the rivers and water resources remain strong. Wild River declarations for the rivers of Cape York will ensure the long-term resilience of country and communities. They will protect the natural function of the rivers and help create a “conservation economy” – where the health of ecosystems and communities is integrated into economic activities. In Cape York this means jobs through a long-term guarantee of a sustainable fishing industry, the Indigenous Wild Rivers Rangers program, and a boost to nature-based tourism through recognition of the immense natural heritage of Cape York river systems.

The Wilderness Society

Phone: (07) 3846 1420

Mobile: 0417 645 927