Coastal Dune Rehabilitation by the Beach
Cairns, QLD

Coastal Sand Dunes are the first line of defense against cylcones and storm tides. They act as buffers to absorb the impact of the destructive forces of an angry ocean, slowing down the possibility of flooding and damage.  Whilst the dune areas of Holloways Beach are not so big in size, they are still very important to maintain due to the high population within the area, as well as the heavy presence of wildlife and native plants in the region, all of which can be heavily impacted by storms on the coast!

To remain stabilized, these dunes and edges of our beaches need to have healthy vegetation present. Groundcovers and vines such as our native Morning Glory work well to cover these dunes, preventing excess sand being washed away and preventing erosion.
These areas, however, as prone to invasive species, as seeds easily wash up on shore in the tide, carried from nearby areas, and start to manifest along beach front areas, taking over native vegetation.

We will be working in partnership with long running local community group Holloways Beach Coast Care to begin removing some common invasive species that have taken over the ridgeline from the front of the local Environment Education Centre, further up the coast where it escapes into coastal woodland. There are beautiful views to admire in the morning as we take on these pests on direct beach front.
It is also a great opportunity to learn about common pest plants within the region, many of which can begin in people’s backyards.
The species we will be focusing on this morning will be Singapore Daisy and Mother in Law Tongue.

After the activity, we will have a relaxing morning tea in the nice sitting area in front of the local education centre, enjoying the cool coastal breeze. Morning Tea is provided on the day.