Improving the local flora and fauna habitat and restoring native vegetation along the Obi Obi Creek – these are just some of the positives that will be achieved through the removal of a number of exotic pine trees in Maleny.
Division 5 Councillor Jenny McKay said Sunshine Coast Council would oversee the removal of a hectare stand of exotic pines along the Obi Obi Creek.
“The removal of these pine trees is consistent with the Maleny Precinct Master Plan and a rehabilitation plan to remove weeds and restore a continuous corridor of native vegetation along the Obi Obi Creek,” she said.
“Removing the pines – which are a declared weed species – will also improve fauna habitat and bank stability in the creek as well as making the area more pleasant and attractive for visitors.
“These works are part of an ongoing partnership between council and Maleny District Green Hills Fund community group and have been supported by the Federal Government’s Biodiversity Fund with assistance from council and other community volunteers along the Obi Obi Creek.”
Cr McKay said a specialist would undertake a flora and fauna survey on the site to ensure the works would not impact on any threatened species or natural values.
“Based on the advice from a heritage specialist, council will retain other stands of pines in the precinct which are considered to have local heritage significance and are a reminder of earlier farming activities in the area,” she said.
“This includes stands of pines much closer to historic Pattemore House.
“Council believes this is a good outcome that balances the need to manage both local heritage and restore important ecological values along the Obi Obi Creek corridor.”
The works are scheduled to start in November and should be completed within two weeks, weather permitting. Specialist contractors will be engaged to remove the pines under supervision from council staff to ensure that any native vegetation is protected.
Once the pines are removed, council will work closely with the Green Hills community group to revegetate the site with local native plants to complement the broader re-vegetation project along Obi Obi Creek.