Notch Point on Queensland’s Isaac Coast is one of the region’s most valuable coastal assets – a popular recreational site that is also home to two unique, ecologically significant habitats.

It is a vital turtle nesting beach, supporting three species of marine turtles - flatback, green and hawksbill turtles. Crucially, it is also home to critically endangered coastal vine thicket which is relied on by animals like the endangered northern quoll and glossy black cockatoo, and the vulnerable red goshawk for food and shelter.

Isaac Regional Council’s Program Leader of Environment and Sustainability Kent Worsley highlighted the importance of balancing recreation and protection during the restoration.

“Notch Point is a really important recreational area,” said Mr Worsley.

“But that was leading to some damage, directly impacting the critically endangered coastal vine thicket and the turtle nesting habitat here.

“Actively supporting the recovery of the native vine thicket by removing invasive weeds that destabilise the dunes is critical to ensure Notch Point remains a protected haven for both marine and coastal life.”

Fences, plants and partnerships

The project focused on tactical intervention and public education. Working closely with local Landcare group Sarina Landcare, Isaac Regional Council are restoring this coastal habitat one plant (and fence!) at a time.

“We’ve planted native plants in the areas within the coastal vine thicket that has gaps," said Saskia Von Fahland, Coordinator from Sarina Landcare.  

“We’ve planted about 600 plants so far. The plan is to put in around 2000 in total, selecting a range of coastal plants that are suited to this environment.

“Over time, we will see some natural regeneration as well.”

The Landcare team also installed a new fencing system to protect the nesting sites. This infrastructure was paired with new signage to drive community stewardship.  

Councillor Viv Coleman stressed the importance of public education.

“It’s been a necessity to fence off our beach access points,” said Cr Coleman.

“But this also has enabled us to be able to educate people on why it's so important to keep this area pristine for many more generations to enjoy.”

Rebecca Allen, Assistant Director Strategic Engagement – Reef Guardian Council program at the Reef Authority said the signage added to the visitor experience.

“Coastal habitats like these are under immense pressure, and their protection is essential for the region's overall ecological health,” Ms Allen said.

“The signage explains the importance of this habitat to marine species as well as the importance of the coastal vine thicket to our coastal birds.”

The power of local action

This forward-thinking conservation effort secures one of the region's most vulnerable coastlines.

“It's been great working with the Reef Authority’s Reef Guardian Councils program,” Mr Worsley said.

“The program helps us understand that even though we're a long way from the coast in a lot of our communities, everything that we do can have an impact on the Great Barrier Reef.”

Isaac Regional Council is one of 21 councils part of the Reef Guardian Council program, an initiative of the Reef Authority which recognises local governments as key partners in the long-term protection of the Reef.

The program represents more than 1.2 million people and covers more than 76 per cent of the Reef catchment, from K-gari to Cape York.

This project is delivered under the Australian Government’s Reef Guardian Council – Activating Local Councils’ Reef Action Plans grant program via the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.