The east coast of Cape York Peninsula and nearby offshore islands support some of the world’s most important marine turtle nesting sites, hosting significant populations of endangered green turtles ( Chelonia mydas ) and critically endangered hawksbill turtles ( Eretmochelys imbricata ). However, major rookeries such as Raine Island and Milman Island face growing threats from sea level rise, tidal inundation and rising sand temperatures. On mainland Cape York, such climate-related threats are less intense due to higher elevation and vegetated beaches that offer shading. Here, the biggest threat to turtle nests is predation — particularly from feral pigs and goannas. To better understand turtle activity and protect nests from predation, Cape York NRM is working with Indigenous ranger teams and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) through the Eastern Cape York Turtle Conservation Project. The project focuses on improving hatchling survival through predator control, nest monitoring and targeted protection measures. Flying into camp Cape York NRM has supported feral pig control along the eastern Cape coast for several years and data from these operations has identified areas where high pig activity overlaps with turtle nesting. One of these areas is the remote coastline around Bathurst Bay in Cape Melville National Park (Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land). To investigate further, rangers Adam Bowen and Nathan Bulmer from Cape Melville, Flinders & Howick Islands Aboriginal Corporation travelled to the area with Cape York NRM’s East Coast Turtle Conservation Project Officer, Scott Morrison.  Wet season access is difficult, so the team joined a QPWS helicopter that was conducting other operations in the region at the time. After being dropped off on the beach, the team set up their remote camp, where they spent the next ten days monitoring turtle activity and collecting vital data.  “It was good to see the country greening up in the wet season and to be working there while access was cut off,” Adam said. Ten days and a new moon The survey was deliberately timed around a new moon. “A new moon increases your chance of seeing turtle activity because the nights are darker,” Scott said. “You also get higher tides, which can make nesting beaches easier for turtles to access.” Beach patrols were carried out on foot and timed to coincide with the tides, with the initial patrols beginning at sunset and then continuing to follow the high tide into the night or early morning. Over the course of the trip, the team carried out 19 patrols across the northern and southern beaches, walking approximately 130 kilometres  along an eight-kilometre stretch of coastline. Results from the trip The team’s monitoring efforts recorded a mix of nesting activity and predator impacts. Nesting density on the east coast is low, but several green turtle nests and fresh tracks were recorded. One protection cage was placed on a recently laid nest. Most of the nests showed signs of predation, with goannas responsible for the majority of the damage. Fresh pig tracks and digging were also observed along the beaches.  The team will return to Cape Melville National Park (CYPAL) in April 2026 to remove the cage, excavate the monitored nest and carry out further surveys, including new monitoring work around Ninian Bay. The information collected from these trips will help guide future predator control and turtle protection work along the eastern Cape York coastline. This project is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments’ Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program.

Invasive pests and weeds are putting increasing pressure on Cape York Peninsula’s wetlands, waterways and native vegetation, threatening ecological health and cultural values. Our Cape York Wetlands and Native Vegetation Resilience  project brings together land managers, Traditional Owners, Indigenous ranger groups and partners to deliver coordinated, landscape-scale control of priority threats. By June 2028, this work will improve the condition of 10,000 hectares of wetlands and 10,000 hectares of native vegetation. Priority threat: Gamba grass Gamba grass ( Andropogon gayanus ) is one of Cape York’s most invasive weeds. It rapidly outcompetes native vegetation, forming dense tussocks and has the potential to drive late-season fires due to extremely high fuel loads. This poses significant risks to biodiversity, communities and property. Native to tropical Africa, gamba grass was introduced to the Northern Territory in 1931 for pasture trials and later to Queensland in 1942, with large-scale planting beginning in the 1980s. Now listed as a Weed of National Significance, gamba grass spreads by seed via wind and water, as well as through mud on vehicles and machinery. It has profound impacts on the nutrient and water availability in the soil and leads to reduced tree cover. How to ID gamba grass Gamba grass has a V-shaped fluffy seed head .  Its thick stems are covered in fine, soft white hair . Gamba stands tall amongst other native grasses and forms dense tussocks .  It grows up to four metres tall , remaining upright and green when native grasses dry out and collapse. Report suspected gamba grass detections to your local council or Biosecurity Queensland. Gamba Grass Taskforce Next up for the project, Cape York NRM will be supporting the Cooktown Gamba Grass Taskforce during its annual week of coordinated action. Led by Cook Shire Council, the taskforce brings together local government, Indigenous rangers, Biosecurity Queensland and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to survey and treat infestations in and around the Cooktown area in late April and early May. For more information on the Cape York Wetlands and Native Vegetation Resilience project, visit:   https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do This project is funded by Queensland Government’s Natural Resource Management Expansion Program.

Ranger groups on Cape York Peninsula are “leading the way” in tackling key threats to endangered marine turtles, with new data highlighting the scale and impact of their work. More than 70 representatives from nine ranger groups, state and federal government agencies and other organisations committed to turtle conservation came together in Cairns for the annual meeting of the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA) — the largest gathering in the program’s history. The meeting, held in March and hosted by Cape York NRM, showcased how Indigenous ranger groups are combining on-ground action with long-term monitoring to improve turtle hatchling survival rates and better understand populations across remote nesting beaches. For Clinton Williams, Ranger Coordinator with the Pormpuraaw Land and Sea Rangers, consistent monitoring is key. “The information we collect from places like Hersey Beach helps us understand how turtles are using the area and whether their populations are changing over time. Long-term monitoring is essential for protecting important nesting habitats,” Clinton said. Ronderson Tommy, Senior Ranger with the Kowanyama Land and Sea Rangers, said his team is using new tools to support their work including e-bikes on beach patrols. “The annual meeting is an eye-opener. It’s good to see what other people are doing and share information,” he said. A key achievement marked at the meeting was the removal of 7,493 feral pigs during the recent season. Predation by feral pigs remains one of the biggest threats to turtle nests and eggs. Rangers also deployed protective cages over nests to prevent predators, including pigs, dingoes and goannas from destroying them. Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Minister for Science and Innovation, Andrew Powell welcomed the results. “Our Government is getting on with the job of protecting Queensland’s environment which includes taking strong action on feral pests,” Minister Powell said. “Feral pigs remain a key threat to marine turtles, but an estimated 2.5 million hatchlings have already been protected in the region through the Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program. “By supporting Indigenous ranger groups on the ground, we’re protecting habitats, improving hatchling survival, and securing these species for future generations.” Mike Gregory, from the Queensland Government’s Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program, said the scale of the work being delivered across the region is significant. “We know pigs are a major issue for turtles nesting in Queensland, but in terms of coordinated action and the number of feral pigs being removed, the western Cape is leading the way,” he said. “It’s an enormous effort from WCTTAA and the ranger groups. Their work is having a profound and positive impact on marine turtle populations in the far north.” Western Cape York has been identified as one of six demonstration sites under the National Feral Pig Action Plan, recognising the program’s leadership in showing how coordinated pest management delivers measurable environmental outcomes. According to Heather Channon, Australia's National Feral Pig Management Coordinator, the WCTTAA model shifts the focus from activity to impact. “This work is showing how pig control directly supports turtle hatchling success,” she said. “It’s also highlighting the capability and expertise of ranger teams working on Country.” Cape York NRM CEO Pip Schroor said it was great to see a record number of attendees. "Bringing together more than 70 representatives for the largest WCTTAA meeting ever is a remarkable achievement for the program. Through on-ground action and long-term monitoring, rangers on the western Cape are protecting nests and hatchlings, reducing predation and gathering data that directly supports these vulnerable species," she said. Another focus of the meeting was the growing concern for olive ridley turtle populations on the western Cape. This year, rangers recorded just 88 olive ridley nests, compared with 1,587 flatback nests across monitored beaches. Cape York NRM’s Program Lead for Marine Turtle Conservation, Dr Manuela Fischer, who works closely with ranger groups, said results show the species needs continued protection. “While nesting numbers for flatback turtles remain relatively stable, the number of olive ridley nests has declined since the start of the decade,” she said. Presentations were delivered by all six ranger groups that form WCTTAA, highlighting their monitoring and feral pig control efforts. The event also featured an update from Rio Tinto on their turtle monitoring program and talks on aerial platform training and the Nest to Ocean Program. On the second day of the meeting, western and eastern Cape ranger groups came together to support the Eastern Cape York Turtle Conservation Project, building on the success of WCTTAA. They shared skills and knowledge, discussed project highlights, challenges and resources needed, and worked with Federal Government representatives to map Biologically Important Areas. WCTTAA is a partnership of Indigenous land and sea owners and managers from Apudthama Land Trust and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw, Aak Puul Ngantam Cape York and Kowanyama. WCTTAA is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments’ Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program, and Rio Tinto’s Western Cape Community Development Fund. Media images for use

Two land and sea ranger groups have learnt how to build turtle nest cages, a vital tool used by the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA) to protect marine turtle eggs and nests from predators. In February, 16 rangers completed a four-day training course in Mapoon focused on welding aluminium and fabricating the cages. As part of the training, the group modified the design and built new cages that will now be used during the turtle nesting season. Learning new skills Anthony Lowden-Kearing from the Mapoon Land and Sea Rangers said the course covered a range of practical skills to make the cages, including cutting and grinding. “I really enjoyed the training, and I hope to build each cage in less than an hour after completing the course. I think these skills will also help our team on other projects,” he said. Shalika Wapau from the Nanum Wungthim Land and Sea Rangers said it was valuable to learn the process from start to finish. “It was great to make the aluminium cages for the first time, which will now be used to protect turtle nests. It was also good to find out about the correct PPE to use to make sure we’re safe,” she said. Protection cages in use for a decade The purpose-built cages were originally designed in 2016 by former Pormpuraaw Ranger Coordinator Robbie Morris and have since been widely used by WCTTAA. They have proven highly effective at preventing feral pigs, dogs and goannas from raiding turtle nests, while also acting as a visual reminder for people driving on beaches to avoid the nests. Project Officer Scott Morrison from Cape York NRM said protecting turtle nests from feral pigs is critical for improving hatchling survival. “Feral pigs are incredibly smart and persistent predators. They can smell turtle eggs and consume multiple nests in one night,” he said. “Unfortunately, northern Queensland has one of the densest feral pig populations in Australia, and many of our most important turtle nesting areas occur in the same places.” The cages are placed over nests by rangers during the nesting season. Some nests are also tagged and monitored, with data collected on nest location, turtle species, hatching success, predator attempts and nest temperature. The mesh openings are large enough for hatchlings to escape the nest and reach the sea, but small enough to keep predators out. Some cages are also fitted with shade cloth to help reduce nest temperatures. Building capacity to construct cages on the Cape Cape York NRM’s Program Lead for Marine Turtle Conservation, Dr Manuela Fischer, said building the cages locally will help ranger groups across the region access more of them. “One of the issues often raised in WCTTAA forums is the limited number of cages,” she said. “By upskilling rangers to weld aluminium and fabricate the cages themselves, they can be built locally and also supplied to other Cape York ranger groups.” With the west coast turtle nesting season typically beginning in late May or early June, the training ensures there is still time to build additional cages before nesting activity starts. The training was delivered by Rudi Schincariol from Civil Safety, with a further course scheduled to take place during April for the Kowanyama Land and Sea Rangers. WCTTAA is a partnership of Indigenous land and sea owners and managers from Apudthama Land Trust and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw, Aak Puul Ngantam Cape York and Kowanyama.  WCTTAA is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments' Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program.

There’s a new one-stop hub for agricultural events and funding programs across Far North Queensland. Whether you're a cane farmer, grazier, banana grower or backyard producer, the  FNQ Farmer Group calendar will help everyone stay up to date with current opportunities. The idea was sparked in May 2025, when 17 FNQ farmer groups came together at the Northern Farmer Group Muster, facilitated by the Department of Primary Industries. A key outcome was to work with the region’s Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators (SAFs) to develop a shared calendar. The new calendar, created by the Cape York, Wet Tropics and Gulf Savannah SAFs, is now helping farmers discover workshops, field days, training and grants. Ag events calendar Grants and funding opportunities This calendar has been developed with funding and support from the Department of Primary Industries through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program, Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators and local farmer groups. Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators are supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

A new peer-to-peer network has been established to strengthen food security on Cape York Peninsula. The Cape York Food Security Community of Practice (CoP) brings together local councils, community enterprises, health agencies and technical experts. By supporting ongoing learning and information sharing, the CoP aims to: Increase local food production Help communities tackle isolation and fresh food shortages during the wet season Reduce reliance on expensive and unreliable resupply routes A collaborative approach The group has been developed through Cape York NRM’s Cultivating Climate-Smart and Sustainable Agriculture in Cape York Peninsula  project, in collaboration with the TNQ Drought Hub’s Sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Enterprise (SATSIE) Program. Meetings to establish the group were held in February and March and saw strong interest from across the region, with representatives attending from Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council, Cook Shire Council, Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance (TCICA), Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council, Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council, Northern Peninsula Area communities and Hope Vale Foundation. Community Enterprises Queensland, which provides essential foods and goods across 31 stores in Cape York and the Torres Strait, also contributed to the discussions, alongside the National Indigenous Australians Agency, Health and Wellbeing Queensland and James Cook University. Community-driven solutions SATSIE Program Lead and Cape York NRM Chair Dr Jim Turnour said the strong cross-sector representation reflects a shared commitment to improving food systems throughout the region.  “By working collaboratively with councils, community organisations, health agencies and local businesses, we’re reinforcing the importance of coordinated, community-driven approaches to achieving lasting food security outcomes for remote communities,” Dr Turnour said. The meetings also provided an opportunity to hear directly from participants about their current food security situation, priorities and needs. Discussions focused on strengthening local supply chains, exploring opportunities for local food production and backing community-led solutions to build long-term resilience. Find out more Read more about this project and how to get involved: https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do#sustainable-agriculture-and-drought-resilience   This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

More than 20 local producers attended the launch of a new peer-to-peer group supporting sustainable agricultural enterprises on Cape York Peninsula. The first meeting of the Cape York Sustainable Agriculture Community of Practice (CoP) was held in Cooktown in March and facilitated by Trevor Meldrum from Cape York Weeds and Feral Animals Inc. The CoP aims to enhance local knowledge sharing, increase adoption of sustainable land practices including AgTech, and build capacity across the region’s agriculture sector.  Cape York NRM’s Geoff Wilson said the network has been developed as part of the Cultivating Climate-Smart and Sustainable Agriculture in Cape York Peninsula  project. “The meeting was well attended despite recent heavy rain, with producers representing horticulture, permaculture, grazing and mixed small crops. There was strong engagement from attendees who worked together to identify shared priorities and opportunities for collaboration, and significant interest in funding that could support new ideas and on-ground improvements,” Geoff said. Members of the CoP identified areas for future learning and helped co-design an ongoing skills program. A key focus was assessing and improving soil health, including organising soil testing across participating properties to establish a baseline for future improvements.  TNQ Drought Hub Regional Soil Coordinator, Dhiraj Gajera, presented to the group about the   National Soil Action Plan , an initiative to improve soil health and strengthen soil knowledge. “Soil health is the foundation of our farming systems; if we get the soil right, we improve the productivity and resilience of the entire enterprise,” Dhiraj said. Facilitator Trevor Meldrum said it was encouraging to see the group set clear priorities from the outset.  “This is their Community of Practice, so our role is to help facilitate discussions while members set the agenda,” Trevor said. “It was very positive to see soil health and other issues emerge as key focus areas, and to explore how the group can support businesses long-term through improved productivity.” The CoP will meet at least twice a year, with workshops and field days also set to take place. This is one of three communities of practice being established by Cape York NRM through the project, with additional networks on improving food security and supporting Indigenous grazing enterprises. Find out more at capeyorknrm.com.au .  This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Media images for use

Cape York NRM will be carrying out land condition surveys across the Cape between May and September 2026. The information collected helps to track long-term changes in the region’s unique landscapes, particularly on grazing country. This year, our teams will visit up to 132 legacy sites, building on monitoring that has been conducted periodically since 2011. The land condition surveys, using the Land Condition Assessment Tool  (LCAT), and woody thickening assessments are rapid surveys carried out within a 100m² plot, taking less than 30 minutes to complete. The surveys are observational only, focusing on indicators such as grass species, erosion and fire impacts, as well as identifying pest species including weeds and feral animals. Staff will be getting in touch with land managers soon to discuss the surveys in more detail. This monitoring also supports other Cape York NRM projects, including identifying the spread of invasive weeds to guide control efforts through our Cape York Wetlands and Native Vegetation Resilience project . This project is funded by Queensland Government’s Natural Resources Recovery Program

As part of Aak Puul Ngantam (APN) Cape York’s Returning Generation Camp, Koolkan Aurukun State School students and Aurukun community members visited the APN ranger team on Aurukun Homelands to learn about their work, including turtle monitoring they’ve conducted over the past 15 years. The APN Cape York ranger team is a member of the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA), a partnership of six western Cape York Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger groups. Cape York NRM’s Marine Turtle Conservation Program Lead, Dr Manuela Fischer, joined the activities, which included demonstrating turtle monitoring techniques, assessing turtle nest viability, and recording and removing marine debris.  A presentation was also given to students and community members by APN rangers on the Cape’s marine turtles and the work carried out by APN to protect them, with contributions from Ecologistics consultant Ben Jones and Dr Fischer. “The rangers’ knowledge of turtle monitoring methods, built up over more than a decade, is incredibly impressive. It was also amazing to see the rangers’ understanding of the historical management of the area and their ongoing use of cultural language (Wik Mungkan) on Wik Homelands,” said Dr Fischer. The visit was a valuable opportunity to see the APN Cape York rangers in action and connect with the Aurukun community, highlighting how WCTTAA is protecting endangered marine turtles across western Cape York. WCTTAA is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments' Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program.

The Queensland Government is investing a landmark $8.9 million in the Cape York region for initiatives that protect land, water and biodiversity. Gamba grass is one of the invasive species being targeted by the new funding. Image: Darryn Higgins, Cook Shire Council. The funding, part of the statewide Natural Resource Management Expansion Program (NRMEP), will support two major projects to be delivered by Cape York NRM, working in partnership with land managers, Traditional Owners and Indigenous ranger groups. The Cape York Wildfire Resilience project  will increase wildfire resilience across 40,000 hectares through coordinated fire management practices that improve the resilience of native vegetation. Across the region, coordinated weed and feral animal control will enhance the condition of 10,000 hectares of wetlands and 10,000 hectares of native vegetation under the Cape York Wetlands and Native Vegetation Resilience project . Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the investment in regional environmental programs was putting local knowledge to work to deliver positive outcomes on the ground. “This investment is about backing local NRM organisations who know their regions best and giving them the tools to get results on the ground,” Minister Last said. “Through our $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, the Queensland Government is focused on practical action to strengthen Queensland’s natural environment and support regional communities.” Cape York NRM CEO Pip Schroor   said the projects would back vital efforts to improve the health of land, water and biodiversity on Cape York Peninsula – one of Australia’s most ecologically significant regions. “This Queensland Government funding will help us tackle pressing environmental threats head-on and safeguard our unique landscapes and precious natural resources,” Ms Schroor said. “By working closely with communities to identify regional priorities, these projects will deliver on-ground results that benefit both the environment and the people whose livelihoods depend on healthy land and waterways.” NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said the NRMEP is designed to strengthen regional capacity and support long-term environmental outcomes. “We’re thrilled to be delivering the NRM Expansion Program in collaboration with the Queensland Government and working alongside regional communities to deliver outcomes for the environment and for the economy,” he said. “At its core, natural resource management is about bringing people together to care for our natural assets – our land and soil, our water, and our precious biodiversity.” In total, the NRMEP will deliver $117.84 million in on-ground land, water, and biodiversity projects across Queensland over the next three years. For more information, visit: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/environment/natural-resource-funding/nrm-expansion-program/funded-projects   These projects are funded by Queensland Government’s Natural Resource Management Expansion Program.

Thank you to everyone who joined our Annual General Meeting in Cairns, Cooktown and online at the end of November. At the meeting, we welcomed Sheridan Teitzel to the Board as our newest Director. Sheridan is a member of the Alngith, Mbaiwum, and Wik-Way nations from western Cape York and brings extensive experience working with communities across sectors including cultural consulting, workforce development, policy, and digital engagement. Sheridan’s approach to conservation is grounded in Indigenous custodianship, focusing on the transmission of ecological knowledge and the preservation of biodiversity through education. Chair Dr Jim Turnour thanked departing Director Marilyn Morris on behalf of the Board for her dedicated service over the past five years. Marilyn was presented with an artwork by a local Indigenous artist and a plaque in recognition of her contribution to Cape York NRM. As part of the AGM, Biodiversity Program Manager Dave Preece presented highlights from the past year, while CEO Pip Schroor outlined future opportunities and projects, including the development of the 2026–2036 Cape York Peninsula NRM Plan. Members accepted the audited 2024–2025 financial statements and endorsed a minor change to the constitution. After the formal proceedings, staff, directors and attendees enjoyed the opportunity to catch up over drinks and nibbles. Read Cape York NRM’s 2024–2025 Annual Report:   https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/resources-and-publications

In October 2025, our team spent five days in Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park (CYPAL) collaborating with ranger teams to support the conservation of the endangered Spectacled Flying-fox (SFF). + The visit is part of our four-year project to support the recovery of SFFs by partnering with land managers, Traditional Owners, scientists and government. Listed nationally as one of 110 priority threatened species, a major focus of the initiative is to confirm SFF roost locations on Cape York Peninsula. After travelling to Kutini-Payamu National Park (CYPAL), about 750 kilometres north of Cairns, Cape York NRM Project Officer Maree Coulson and First Nations Engagement Officer Charlene Cressbrook met with our project partners from Northern Kuuku Ya’u Land and Sea Rangers — Coordinator Shimona Walsh and Ranger Colin Pascoe — together with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) Ranger-in-Charge Karl Goetze and his colleague Efrin Dagami. Navigating thick vegetation The trip began with time spent sharing knowledge and learning from the rangers about their experiences of SFFs in the national park. This allowed the group to discuss where flying-foxes had been seen and talk through some of the local names of the plant species that make up their diet. There was also time for training in Habitat Condition Assessment (HCAs) methods ahead of two days of field surveys, where ranger support proved crucial. “Monitoring was sometimes through thick vegetation and off-track, with a GPS guiding us through wait-a-while and dense bush, up and down dried creek beds, through rainforest and into open woodland. We had a variety of terrain and some surveys were a challenge to get to, and in particular Shimona and Efrin’s local knowledge and support were essential,” Maree said. Using consistent methodology, HCAs provide a clear picture of an area’s environmental health and help guide future management. A mud map and a big win! As part of the Spectacled Flying-fox project, we’ve been engaging with the Lockhart River community, who have shared valuable insights into the cultural significance of the species. Prior to this project, SFF camp locations in the area were limited to historical records. Thanks to the support of the Lockhart River community, Northern Kuuku Ya’u Land and Sea Rangers, Traditional Owners, and QPWS, several possible camps were identified this year. On the last day of the trip and using a hand-drawn mud map from one of the rangers, the team was fortunate to locate an active SFF camp. Discovering this roost within the national park is a significant milestone, and the focus now is to locate more camps across Cape York. School pupils get a talk on speckys The Year 6 students at Lockhart River State School also received a visit, and students enjoyed learning about SFFs, including how to recognise them, why they are endangered, and why they are so important. “The students were very engaged and asked good, thoughtful questions. They thought the picture of the SFF was cute,” Charlene said. Meetings with the Lockhart River Shire Council, local Traditional Owners and community members also further strengthened relationships and provided deeper insight into the cultural significance of SFFs. To report a sighting of a Spectacled Flying-fox in Cape York, or to download our identification guide, visit: https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Cape York NRM, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.

Cape York NRM showcased its new Cultivating Climate-Smart and Sustainable Agriculture project at a recent field day in Cooktown for producers across the Annan, Endeavour, and Normanby catchments. The three-year project supports landholders to develop sustainable agricultural enterprises, strengthening participation in Cape York’s agricultural sector. Project lead Geoff Wilson said the initiative was well received by attendees. “Thank you to the workshop organisers for the opportunity to speak about our project, which aims to work alongside landholders to build knowledge, test solutions and share practices that are economically sound and environmentally responsible,” Geoff said. “I’m looking forward to helping participants improve production and profitability through sustainable practices.” A key focus of the program is shared learning. At the workshop, participants discussed establishing a Community of Practice to encourage peer-to-peer learning, identify priorities for improving agricultural practices, and develop solutions to common issues. The project will also build local capacity through workshops and demonstration sites showcasing approaches to support climate resilience and sustainable agriculture suited to Cape York. Examples of key practices that may be considered include cattle grazing management, soil health management, water management and irrigation efficiency, and increasing local food production. The field day, hosted by Cape York Weeds and Feral Animals Inc. and facilitated by Trevor Meldrum, included presentations from the Department of Primary Industries and InFarm, an agricultural AI company. More than 20 participants attended, including members of the Annan, Normanby and Endeavour Catchment Group, Indigenous elders, and representatives from James Cook University and Cook Shire Council. The event was supported by the Queensland Government’s Reef Water Quality Program and sponsored by AgriFutures Australia and Cape York NRM. Meet our project lead Geoff Wilson leads the Cultivating Climate-Smart and Sustainable Agriculture in Cape York Peninsula project for Cape York NRM.  Geoff grew up in a grazing family in Central Queensland and has called Far North Queensland home for more than 20 years. He has worked with the Australian Banana Growers Council and Monash University’s Eliminate Dengue project, bringing a wealth of experience in both agriculture and community-based programs, alongside a keen interest in sustainability. “I was taught from a young age that if you look after the land, the land will look after you,” Geoff said. Producers can learn more about the project by visiting the project webpage  or emailing geoff.wilson@capeyorknrm.com.au . This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

Indigenous rangers from western Cape York have completed mentored aerial shooting aimed at reducing feral pig predation on turtle eggs and nesting sites. The mentoring was delivered in September by Seymour Out Bush, an organisation specialising in remote area feral animal control and training. Flights were carried out across Kowanyama, Old Mapoon, Napranum and the Northern Peninsula Area, supporting rangers working as part of the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA). Across 12 flights, rangers culled more than 800 feral pigs from key coastal and wetland areas where pig activity poses a serious threat to turtle nesting sites. Rangers from Kowanyama Land and Sea Rangers, Pormpuraaw Rangers, Mapoon Land and Sea Rangers, and Napranum’s Nanum Wungthim Land and Sea Rangers took part. The training also involves rangers being mentored in on-ground shooting and in using firearms to humanely destroy animals. Trainer and shooter Mark Lane said the mentored flights were designed specifically for Indigenous ranger teams and focused on practical learning. “We go out to the ranger groups and conduct the training on Country,” Mr Lane said. “Sometimes that means it takes a little longer, but there’s much more value because it’s relevant to their Country and the challenges the rangers are dealing with.” The timing of the mentoring was deliberate, coinciding with turtle nesting season, when feral pigs pose a significant threat by preying on turtle eggs and nests. WCTTAA is a partnership of Indigenous land and sea owners and managers from Apudthama Land Trust and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw, Aak Puul Ngantam Cape York, and Kowanyama.  Sustained efforts by WCTTAA have reduced nest predation to sustainable levels on many western Cape York beaches. This work includes monitoring nesting sites and hatchling success, controlling feral pigs through aerial and ground operations, and protecting nests with aluminium cages. This project is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments' Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program, and Rio Tinto's Western Cape Community Development Fund.

Congratulations to our Cape York NRM Environmental Award winners — Grace Wapau from Western Cape College in Weipa and Ellie Greaves from Cooktown State School!  This annual award recognises students who show a genuine passion for caring for Country, protecting natural places and leading sustainable practices. In Cooktown, the award was presented by Project Officer Bindi Woodland and Director Marilyn Morris. “Small actions matter. Whether it’s starting a recycling project at school, helping at a beach clean-up, or joining an environmental group, you never know what long-term impact your effort will have,” said Bindi.

Launched in 2024, the Eastern Cape York Coastal Wetland Restoration project is a three-year initiative aimed at improving the health and resilience of coastal habitats within Great Barrier Reef catchments. Funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the project focuses on restoring wetlands in the Hann, Normanby, and Jeannie catchments. In November 2025, project partners came together for a mid-point review workshop to assess progress, share insights, and plan future actions. Participants reviewed wetland restoration activities, water quality monitoring data, feral pig management progress, and adaptive management approaches across Cape York. A Social and Cultural Benefits Survey was also completed, giving participants the chance to reflect on how the project supports cultural connections, skill development, and long-term partnerships. The workshop included updates on three aligned initiatives, allowing partners with overlapping objectives to collaborate in a single, unified session: University of Queensland’s Nature Repair Market Feral Ungulate Method investigation NAILSMA’s NESP Feral Pig Integrated Pest Management work Cape York Water Partnerships’ wetland restoration research The workshop reviewed progress in tackling environmental threats to the wetlands. Key highlights included the treatment of the invasive weed olive hymenachne (Hymenachne amplexicaulis) across 20,000 ha, and the culling of 3,825 feral pigs across 179,200 ha by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service over the past 12 months. These efforts took place in Cape Melville National Park (CYPAL) and Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL), in partnership with Indigenous ranger teams. The project is also delivering cultural co-benefits — creating jobs, providing training, and protecting wetlands of cultural significance for Traditional Owners. Find out more: https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do   This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.

An award-winning turtle protection program from western Cape York is being replicated on the Peninsula’s east coast to improve hatchling survival rates of endangered marine turtles. Far North Queensland’s east coast is home to some of the world’s highest-density nesting populations of the endangered green turtle and the critically endangered hawksbill turtle. However, feral pigs—widespread across Cape York Peninsula—pose a major threat by preying on eggs and hatchlings in nests. Coordinated by Cape York NRM, and in collaboration with Indigenous ranger groups and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Eastern Cape York Turtle Conservation Project  will increase the nesting success of turtles through targeted predator control and nest protection measures. The new program is based on the approach developed by the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA), which has significantly increased hatchling survival rates along 800 km of coastline. WCTTAA is a partnership of Indigenous land and sea owners and managers from Apudthama Land Trust and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw, Aak Puul Ngantam, and Kowanyama. WCTTAA proudly claimed the inaugural ‘First Nations Award for Excellence in Biosecurity’ at the 2024 Australian Biosecurity Awards for its outstanding contribution to Australian biosecurity and exceptional commitment to improving the protection of Country and people from pests, weeds and diseases. Project Coordinator Dr Manuela Fischer said WCTTAA rangers will work with eastern Cape York Indigenous ranger groups to share expertise in turtle monitoring and data collection. “Establishing and maintaining consistent monitoring programs is vital for marine turtle conservation,” she said. “In the long term, this will help ranger groups apply conservation strategies in areas where nest protection and pig control are most needed.” The project directly addresses climate-related threats to turtle survival, including concerns about turtles currently nesting on offshore islands. “It’s predicted that these island nesting sites may become permanently inundated in the future,” said Dr Fischer. “By reducing feral pig numbers on the mainland, it could make more elevated beaches on the east coast a viable alternative for these globally important populations.” Mike Gregory, Project Coordinator for the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation’s Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program, said WCTTAA has made a significant contribution to the Nest to Ocean project over the past decade, reducing the threat of turtle egg predation by feral pigs from almost 100 per cent of eggs predated to less than 10 per cent through control initiatives. “Replicating this initiative on the eastern side of Cape York Peninsula will make a significant contribution to the conservation of marine turtles in Australia,” he said. Find out more about the Eastern Cape York Turtle Conservation Project on Cape York NRM’s website:   https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/ This project is supported by Cape York NRM through funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments’ Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program. For media enquiries, please contact Steve Titman on 0475 265 063 or email steve.titman@capeyorknrm.com.au .

Project officers from Cape York NRM recently spent four days in Cape Melville National Park (CYPAL), working on a joint project to improve the condition of the Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Vine Thickets of Eastern Australia (LRCVT). Also known as beach scrub, areas of LRCVT are vital to our coastlines. They provide unique habitat for vulnerable coastal and culturally significant species and act as a natural buffer between the ocean and more fragile ecosystems further inland. Over the next four years, Cape York NRM will lead efforts to enhance the condition of critically endangered LRCVT along the eastern coast of Cape York Peninsula. The project focuses on addressing key threats, including controlling feral animals and invasive weeds, improving fire management, and better managing visitor access. Getting to work in Cape Melville National Park (CYPAL) After travelling 200 km north of Cooktown, project officers Bindi Woodland and Maree Coulson arrived at the Wakooka Creek area to begin their four-day field trip. Working alongside Traditional Owners and rangers from Cape Melville, Flinders & Howick Islands Aboriginal Corporation (CMFHIAC), together with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers, the first activity involved a follow-up habitat condition survey to track changes in LRCVT against the 2024 baseline. Assessments covered vegetation health and potential fuel loads, while wildlife cameras were installed in strategic areas to monitor the impacts of feral animals, particularly pigs and cattle. The rangers also used drones to map LRCVT sites, and the images and data they collected will be used for future monitoring and management, including high-resolution imagery and canopy and terrain modelling. Early dry season cultural burn Littoral rainforest ecological communities are sensitive to fire. Late dry season wildfires in areas with high fuel loads can encroach on LRCVT, killing rainforest plants and allowing fire-promoting species to establish. To reduce this threat, QPWS and CMFHIAC rangers conducted an early dry season burn as part of this visit to reduce fuel loads around LRCVT areas. The success of burns is measured using visual fire mapping tools. Recent burns by rangers have shown protective buffer zones can be established without harming fire-sensitive vegetation. Cape York NRM Project Officer Bindi Woodland said the trip was a great example of organisations working together. “Thanks to Phillip, Albert, Rodney, and Rowan from CMFHIAC, and Josh Smith and Ebony Stallard from QPWS for making the project trip a success. It also gave us the opportunity to strengthen relationships and learn more about the issues on the ground,” said Bindi. Reflections of Traditional Owners and rangers from the Cape Melville, Flinders & Howick Islands Aboriginal Corporation Alfred Michael said that cultural burns were important to keep Country healthy and control invasive weeds. “The best part of the trip was getting out on Country. I enjoyed learning about the rainforest survey, and I just want to do more now.” Rowan Hart said future actions for Wakooka Creek included establishing more monitoring plots. “It was good to understand the difference between littoral rainforest and why it’s important to protect it.” Phillip Walker said a key moment for him was seeing some of the harm caused by human disturbance. “Seeing the damage from vehicles on the beach. It’s good to be aware of the impact it causes to these areas.” Roderick Michael said his highlight was seeing new things and places.  “Every day was good. It’s always good when we come up here." For more information on Cape York NRM’s project to improve the condition of the Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Vine Thickets of Eastern Australia, visit our website: https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do/#biodiversity   This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Cape York NRM, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.

A dedicated group of landholders, rangers, and conservation experts attended a two-day workshop in June to help protect the endangered Golden-shouldered Parrot. Photo: Braydon Moloney - Conservation Partners Held at Artemis Station and facilitated by Conservation Partners , the workshop aimed to strengthen understanding and improve on-ground management of key threats to the species, including predation, habitat degradation, and the loss of nesting sites. The event was delivered as part of Cape York NRM’s Golden-shouldered Parrot  project, funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust. Project Officer Katelyn Greaves said the gathering brought together a range of stakeholders, including representatives from Rinyirru Land Trust, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and Pormpuraaw Rangers. “This event marked a valuable step forward in building regional capacity and developing practical, community-led conservation efforts across Golden-shouldered Parrot habitat,” she said. “The feedback we received highlighted a strong interest in ongoing collaboration, future workshops, and tailored support for fire and vegetation management.” One of the workshop highlights was the sighting of three Golden-shouldered Parrot chicks in a protected nest on Artemis Station. “It was incredibly exciting,” said Katelyn. “The chicks are expected to fledge within the next two to three weeks—a promising sign for the species’ recovery.” Find out more about our projects to protect the Cape York region’s biodiversity:   https://www.capeyorknrm.com.au/what-we-do .  This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and the Saving Native Species Program, and delivered by Cape York NRM, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.

The Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan (WQIP) guides how industry, government and the community work together to improve the quality of water flowing to the Great Barrier Reef. The joint Australian and Queensland governments’ review of the Reef 2050 WQIP began last year, with the first ‘listening phase’ workshop held in Cooktown in September 2024. In June, stakeholders attended a second workshop at Cooktown Shire Hall as part of the ‘drafting phase’ of the review. The session provided an update on how feedback from the listening phase has informed the development of a draft framework to build a new plan. Participants also had an opportunity to provide further input for consideration. Emma-Lee Harper from the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) delivered the keynote presentation on the review. Cape York NRM Project Officer Maree Coulson said stakeholders valued the chance to be involved in shaping the new Plan. “It was great to see the participants getting involved with discussions about the frameworks that guide water quality outcomes in the Reef,” she said. The workshop was organised as part of Cape York NRM’s Paddock to Reef Regional Engagement project. The Paddock to Reef (P2R) program provides the framework for modelling, evaluating and reporting progress towards the Reef 2050 WQIP targets through the Reef Water Quality Report Card. As part of the session, DETSI representatives Carl Mitchell and Gillian McCloskey provided technical updates on the latest developments in the P2R program and regional catchment modelling for Cape York. To find out more about the Reef 2050 WQIP review, visit:   https://www.reefplan.qld.gov.au/water-quality-and-the-reef/the-plan/review . To learn about the Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program, visit: www.reefplan.qld.gov.au/tracking-progress/paddock-to-reef .  Check out the   top 6 FAQs   the Paddock to Reef team get at Cape York NRM forums. Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments.