Crossing new paths for wildlife welfare

Why did the lizard cross the road? To get to the other side safely.

That’s the scenario at Maleny where a new wildlife crossing has been constructed under Mountain View Road.

The underground passage now provides a safe link for local fauna between the Mary Cairncross Reserve and nearby state forest. Environment portfolio holder, Councillor Keryn Jones said the new fauna crossing was part of a $572,000 Federal Government grant for infrastructure projects on the Sunshine Coast.

"This is one of a number of fauna crossings that council has constructed on the Sunshine Coast to aid the welfare and sustainability of many species of local wildlife," she said.

"I thank the Federal Government for recognising the importance of our local environment and helping council provide measures to improve our vibrant, green and diverse region."

Division 5 Councillor Jenny Mckay said the $160,000 project had been funded by the Federal Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

"This is a fantastic initiative that will enable existing fauna populations in the Mary Cairncross Reserve to thrive by safely linking up with a broader gene pool of species in the state forest," she said.

Division 1 Councillor Anna Grosskreutz said the fauna passage would provide a safe crossing for a variety of animals.

"The passage itself is a concrete culvert with soil base that can be used by lizards; pademelons; snakes; echidnas; bandicoots, possums and a variety of other mammals," she said.

"Secure green diamond mesh fencing has also been constructed on both sides of the road to direct fauna traffic in and away from the passage and further native plantings have been established around the tunnel to provide cover protection," she said.

"Council staff will monitor fauna activity in and around the tunnel using a variety of techniques."