November 19, 2025
South Burnett Regional Council will investigate the cost of becoming part of the “Land For Wildlife” program.
The program, which would be totally voluntary, would require the appointment of an Environment Officer at Council who could provide advice to landowners.
Cr Danita Potter moved the motion at Wednesday’s Council meeting, which was seconded by Cr Jane Erkens.
Cr Erkens said there was support for the program, particularly in Blackbutt.
She said the days of “if it moves, shoot it; if it doesn’t, cut it down” were long gone.
Cr Linda Little said there was also support from residents in the Bunya Mountains.
Cr Heath Sander said he could not support it because farmers had enough to cope with now and it could cost Council $100,000.
Mayor Kathy Duff emphasised it was just an investigation.
“People who don’t want to be involved, don’t have to be involved,” Cr Little said.
She said there were a lot of people – particularly people who had moved to the area – who just wanted some guidance.
The vote was carried 6-1, with Cr Sander voting against it.
Councils that are currently members of the “Land For Wildlife” program include Toowoomba, Gympie, Somerset and Lockyer Valley.
- External link: Land For Wildlife
Thanks for the clear coverage of this Council decision.
It’s encouraging to see Council taking the time to investigate this properly.
The 6-1 vote shows there’s genuine interest in at least exploring what this could mean for South Burnett landholders who want guidance.