A PASSIONATE group of volunteers has come together to launch Friends of Dularcha National Park, a grassroots initiative dedicated to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of this Glasshouse Country hinterland natural gem.
Led by former ranger Ryan Moore, the newly formed group held its inaugural event on Saturday February 8, rallying community members to safeguard the park’s unique vegetation, historic Dularcha railway tunnel, and threatened species, including the vulnerable Richmond birdwing butterfly and its host vine.
Environment Minister Andrew Powell launched the event, and the morning saw an impressive turnout of locals from diverse backgrounds, working alongside Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers and Friends of Parks representatives. Attendees learned about the park’s rich history before rolling up their sleeves to tackle invasive lantana, a fast-spreading weed threatening native flora.
“I was amazed at the turnout and so pleased to see such a diverse group of people taking ownership of the park,” Mr Moore said.
“I can’t wait to see what we can achieve over the coming months and years.”
Jessica Lovegrove-Walsh, Executive Officer of Friends of Parks Queensland, praised the initiative. “It’s fantastic to see community-led conservation in action,” she said.”
Looking ahead, Mr Moore has an exciting calendar of activities planned for 2025, including guest speakers, botany walks, and nocturnal spotlighting tours. To stay informed about upcoming events, follow Friends of Dularcha National Park on Facebook. For broader conservation opportunities, visit the Friends of Parks Queensland website at www.friendsofparksqld.org.
