Managing natural areas
The City is responsible for the management of 13,000 hectares of natural areas including bushland, conservation areas, environmental parks and reserves. More than 4200 of these hectares have been acquired through our Open Space Preservation program over the past 15 years.
This program has contributed to preserving valuable habitat for native plants and animals while also creating some unique nature based recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Find out what the City is doing to manage our natural areas and how you can help.
School and corporate tree planting
Native tree planting for school, community and corporate groups.
Beaches to Bushland Volunteer Landcare Program
By volunteering in a Bushcare or Landcare group you can help protect, maintain and enhance our natural areas and make a difference to your local natural environment.
NaturallyGC environmental education workshops
The NaturallyGC workshops and activities are designed for people interested in connecting with and exploring our city's wonderful natural environment. You can participate in a variety of free or low cost activities across the Gold Coast.
Bushfire management and planning
Each year the City, in conjunction with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, undertakes mechanical or hazard reduction burns in key areas to mitigate bushfire risk. Hazard reduction burns are undertaken to protect nearby properties and structures.
Bushland restoration and environmental weeds
As our population and urban areas expand, the pressure on our natural areas grows, increasing the threat and effects of weed infestation. We are actively involved in the restoration, rehabilitation and maintenance of natural areas through weed control and native tree planting.
Natural Areas Management Plans
Our natural areas are important environmental assets for the Gold Coast and also provide opportunities for nature-based recreation. We seek to protect and manage these areas sustainably through Natural Area Management Plans.
Natural Area Green Army projects
The City has been successful in applying for and obtaining Green Army projects to improve and restore our valuable natural areas through assisted weed control and revegetation activities.
Nature based recreation and nature trails
The natural areas of the Gold Coast provide numerous recreational opportunities such as bushwalking, fishing, kayaking, mountain-biking and horse riding. Whether you're a birdwatcher, nature lover, recreational walker or serious hiker, there's an experience to suit everyone.
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