Treasured wildlife corridor damaged by vandals

A vital Sunshine Coast wildlife corridor has been damaged in what is being investigated as an act of environmental vandalism.

Wildlife corridors perform an important role, allowing the safe movement of birds, reptiles, mammals, frogs and other native animals.

Dozens of trees and plants over 320m2 have been destroyed at Peregian Springs, inside the Ridges Boulevard Environment Reserve on Finch Terrace, which is treasured by local residents.

The reserve provides a vital link for wildlife to move safely between Peregian Springs and the Noosa National Park.

Sunshine Coast Council is investigating the environmental vandalism and a large warning sign has been installed to highlight the damage and send a clear message to the community that this illegal activity will not be tolerated.

The signs will stay in place until the site has regenerated.

Heavy penalties for environmental vandals

Those found guilty of such offences can be fined more than $130,000 and anyone with information is urged to call Council on 07 5475 7272.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Environmental Operations Manager Adam Connell called on the community to help find the culprit or culprits by providing evidence to identify the offender.

“Council is investigating, and we are calling on the local residents to help,” Mr Connell said.

“It’s unclear what has motivated this act – which makes the damage even more senseless.

“Our natural environment is part of what makes the Sunshine Coast so special and if convicted of illegal damage, people can face significant fines of up to $131,580 from Council and more if found guilty under the Queensland Environmental Protection Act.”

Council, through its Sunshine Coast Environment and Liveability Strategy, recognises the importance of protecting and enhancing our natural assets and takes a very strong stance when it comes to illegal damage of this nature.

Council receives regular complaints of illegal clearing and poisoning of native trees.

We are grateful to those residents who report this to Council as without their information, it is often difficult to find the culprits and prosecute them, which in turn deters others from carrying out environmental vandalism.

How to report suspicious activity

If you notice suspicious vegetation damage occurring in Council-managed reserves or parks please contact Council’s customer services on 5475 7272.