A new land acquisition in South Ripley, spanning 32 hectares, highlights Ipswich’s focus on preserving koala habitats and enhancing environmental conservation.
Preserving Natural Environment
The property lies within an ecological corridor connecting two of Ipswich’s largest conservation areas: White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate and Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate. The area supports native wildlife, including koalas, and features vital plant species. The land was identified as ecologically important, providing crucial connections between existing conservation spaces.
This acquisition is part of Ipswich’s Enviroplan program, designed to preserve the city’s environment and natural beauty. Funds from the Enviroplan levy were used to secure the land, ensuring its long-term protection for wildlife and the community.
Balancing Growth and Conservation
With Ipswich’s population rapidly growing, protecting green spaces like South Ripley is increasingly critical. This land is a wildlife corridor between conservation estates, ensuring safe habitats for koalas and other native species. Its preservation supports not only biodiversity but also recreational opportunities such as bushwalking.
Ipswich has prioritised balancing urban growth with environmental conservation, with efforts including thousands of hectares of land acquisitions for ecological management. The South Ripley property is vital to these ongoing efforts, contributing to sustainable city development.
Community Impact and Future Plans
The newly secured land adds to over 7,000 hectares of conservation-focused properties Ipswich manages. Moving forward, Council plans to continue targeting ecologically significant areas, particularly in high-growth suburbs, to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage further.
In addition to land acquisition, Ipswich has advanced renewable energy initiatives and repurposed flood-hit properties into green spaces, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and making Ipswich one of the greenest cities in southeast Queensland.
Published 31-Dec-2024
