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Beattie Government preserves Carindale bushland

Premier & Treasurer
The Honourable Peter Beattie
August 17, 2005

Premier Peter Beattie today announced the State Government's decision to preserve over six hectares of prime development space in the heart of Carindale for public green space and to protect the local environment.

Mr Beattie said the 6.234 ha block of natural bushland, located in Weekes Road on Savin Creek, incorporated two vital green corridors that link Whites Hill Reserve to Bulimba Creek.

"Whites Hill Reserve is recognised for both its State and regional environmental significance," Mr Beattie said.

"It is home to two threatened flora species and threatened fauna species including the powerful owl, grey headed flying fox and velvet gecko."

The Labor Party candidate in Chatsworth, school teacher Chris Forrester, said it was important to protect this property for both ecological and social reasons.

"This is a good decision for the environment and the local community," he said.

"In addition to providing a valuable habitat and wildlife corridors, the bushland will preserve the beauty of the landscape in this area and provide extra outdoor space for families in this community to enjoy."

Education Minister Rod Welford said the government had obtained the land in two separate purchases in 1962 and 1972 to cater for an anticipated primary school in the area.

"The government is now in the envious position of owning a highly sought-after 6.234ha parcel of land, only 15 minutes from the Brisbane CBD," Mr Welford said.

"At the end of the day the environmental value and community benefits were the key influences on our decision."

Mr Beattie said the government would review the day-to-day management of the site.

"We will continue to work with the local community including the Bulimba Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee, local bushcare groups and schools who are keen to be involved in the rehabilitation of the natural bushland and creek system," Mr Beattie said.

To mark the occasion Premier Peter Beattie planted a Macadamia Integrifolia on the site - one of the threatened flora species in the White Hills Reserve.