One of the city’s housing developments is becoming a refuge for one of Queensland’s most endangered trees, with the re-planting of bottle trees.
Endangered trees have been planted throughout the parklands of Carver’s Reach masterplanned community at Park Ridge.
Reflecting the surrounding natural environment, seven Ormeau bottle trees (Brachychiton sp. Ormeau) and 18 Bailey’s Cypress (Callitris baileyi) trees are being planted as part of the parklands in an effort to intrinsically link the community and ecosystem.
The Ormeau Bottle Tree, which grows to be more than 120 years old and occurs along creeks and rivers around the Logan and Gold Coast areas, is listed as critically endangered by the Australian Government while Logan City Council includes the Bailey’s Cypress under their threatened species list.
The developer has promised to play a role in helping these tree species endure and recover within their endemic habitat.
Development director at Golden Gate Property David Whiteman said the planting project was part of its contribution to responsible environmental land development programs.
“The Ormeau Bottle Tree is an iconic species endemic to this very area,” Mr Whiteman said.
“The aim is to significantly increase the number of trees through natural seeding, which will importantly expand the genetic base of the species.
“It also enables visitors and residents of Carver’s Reach to see this beautiful and vital part of the logan ecosystem and to enable further research into its survival.
“We take a lot of pride in making a contribution to saving important parts of Queensland’s environmental heritage and securing their future.”
The parklands are now dotted with signage identifying these tree species to the public.
The development has just released six hectares of parklands, including a new playspace with a natural theme that pays homage to the rich timber history of the area.
An agility trail curves its way around two native bottle trees and provides a climbing challenge for children as they make their way along the trail putting their ninja skills to the test.
According to the Department of Environment, the Ormeau bottle tree is an iconic rainforest tree that has a range of less than one square kilometre with only 161 individual trees. Habitat loss, invasive weeds, low genetic diversity, fire, insect attack are its main threats.
The Park Ridge area, which is inclusive of Boronia Heights, has a forecasted population of 29,987 by 2036 representing an increase of over 20,000 residents since the 2016 census. This increases the current population by 137% over a 20-year period.
