DeClaw Cat's Claw!
Habana, Qld

Reliance Creek National Park consists of approx 14Ha of predominantly tall, wet, palm-dominated lowland rainforest.

This type of rainforest has been extensively cleared in this region, and this area now may provide the only available habitat for a number of rare & threatened plant species as well as seasonal feeding areas for migratory birds.

Project activities are concentrated on cut’n’paint of Cats Claw Creeper vines threatening the park’s vegetation. Cats Claw Creeper was introduced from South America, and has been declared a Class 3 weed under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. It occurs in remnant natural vegetation, rainforest and riparian areas. It is an aggressive climber with the ability to smother all native vegetation, including tall trees, it creates a monoculture with only shallow roots/tubers, and causes a decline in quality & connectivity of habitat corridors along waterways as well as possible extinctions due to reduced habitat availability & resilience, reduction in the root mass holding soil together along affected waterways and increases in erosion along the waterway.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife, and Pioneer Catchment and Landcare Group have released a Cat’s Claw Creeper biological control, a leaf-sucking tingid and a leaf-tying moth. Project activities will include looking for evidence of the tinged and moth, and reporting back to Queensland Parks & Wildlife. 

This project is a new and exciting one for Mackay, which remains relatively undiscovered by tourism despite the tropical riches it has to offer, from ancient rainforests to stunning beaches and coral reefs. With its warm weather and unique wildlife, the region is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to volunteer in beautiful habitats away from hordes of holidaymakers.

Conservation Volunteers accommodation is not available on this project, but all levels of tourist accommodation are available in Mackay, from backpacker hostels to high-quality hotels. A team leader collects local and visiting volunteers daily from pick-up points in the city.

Volunteers need to bring and wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, boots or sturdy shoes, and a broad-brimmed hat. It is also recommended that volunteers bring and use sun-screen (30+) and tropical-strength insect repellent.

This site may not be suitable to volunteers who have mobility issues, as most of the site has extensive vine ground cover.