Vegetation Management

Tamborine Conservation Area

Tamborine Mountain, QLD25 hectaresOngoing since 2018Scenic Rim Regional Council2018–Present

90%

Weed Cover Reduced

25ha

Reserve Protected

Years Ongoing

60+

Rainforest Species Recovering

Project Overview

The Tamborine Conservation Area project is Wildscapes' longest-running vegetation management contract — a multi-year partnership with Scenic Rim Regional Council to protect and enhance 25 hectares of threatened remnant subtropical rainforest on Tamborine Mountain. Since 2018, our team has delivered systematic weed control, ongoing monitoring, and adaptive management to safeguard one of South East Queensland's most ecologically significant bushland reserves.

The Challenge

Tamborine Mountain's remnant rainforest patches face relentless pressure from invasive weeds — particularly Camphor Laurel, Celtis, and Ochna — which thrive in the mountain's fertile volcanic soils and high rainfall. Without active management, these aggressive species rapidly overtop and suppress native rainforest species, threatening the long-term viability of the reserve. The site also borders residential properties, creating ongoing reinvasion pressure from garden escapees and bird-dispersed weed seeds.

Our Approach

Annual vegetation surveys and weed mapping using GPS-referenced photo points to track weed distribution, density, and reinvasion patterns — providing the data foundation for targeted, cost-effective management each season.

Systematic Camphor Laurel and Celtis control using the cut-stump herbicide method, prioritising large canopy trees first to open the canopy and allow native rainforest regeneration to respond to increased light.

Ochna and garden escapee management along the reserve boundary using targeted foliar herbicide application, with a buffer zone program engaging neighbouring residents in responsible garden plant selection.

Supplementary planting of rainforest species in areas where natural regeneration is slow — using locally-sourced tube stock of species such as Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Cryptocarya triplinervis, and Dendrocnide excelsa.

Quarterly site visits with detailed reporting to Council including weed control records, plant survival data, photo monitoring, and adaptive management recommendations for the following season.

Community engagement sessions with local bushcare volunteers, providing training in weed identification and control techniques to extend the reach of management across the broader reserve network.

Key Native Species Established

Elaeocarpus reticulatusCryptocarya triplinervisDendrocnide excelsaArgyrodendron trifoliolatumDiploglottis australisFicus coronataPolyscias elegansBeilschmiedia obtusifoliaAcronychia laevis