New Sun Coast service helps map our ecosystems

THE Sunshine Coast Council and the University of the Sunshine Coast have collaborated to develop a ground-breaking mapping resource that showcases the value of the region’s ecosystems.

Known as the Ecosystem Function Mapping and Reporting Tool, this worldfirst platform combines data from various studies to illustrate the diverse ecosystem services available in different locations across the area.

Ecosystem services encompass crucial benefits such as climate regulation, pollination, food supply, and habitat.

The tool allows governments, industry groups, businesses, and community members to access and analyse the data, enabling informed decision-making that can benefit future generations.

By overlaying additional information like protected areas and planning schemes, users can gain a comprehensive understanding of the region’s ecosystem services.

The project team has already employed the tool to fulfil requests from the council, aiding advocacy and planning efforts for major green spaces.

The tool enhances decision-making capabilities, providing a holistic perspective of the region’s ecosystem services and supporting conservation, planning, and development initiatives.

The research demonstrates the vital interconnections between the environment, communities, and the local economy, emphasising the immeasurable value of the region’s ecosystems.

Herbal blend to get you back on track

The mapping tool is publicly available online, accompanied by instructional videos and explanations to assist users in navigating its functionalities.

Native plants help support wildlife conservation

Supporting Native Plants in SEQ Gardens and Balconies for Wildlife

Conservation

Choosing to grow native plants in Southeast Queensland (SEQ) gardens and balconies can have a significant impact on supporting local wildlife.

Australia’s iconic animals face increasing pressures and the risk of extinction, making it crucial to provide them with safe habitats and food sources.

By selecting local native species for outdoor areas, SEQ residents can contribute to the well-being of Australian animal species. SEQ is blessed with over 4,000 flora species, many of which once thrived in urban environments. These plants offer shelter and sustenance to various animals, including bees, koalas, birds, lizards, and frogs.

Opting for native plants also enhances the region’s flora diversity, ensuring its survival for future generations. It’s a win-win situation for the environment and the enjoyment of residents.

Here are some native plants suitable for SEQ gardens:

Gum trees (Eucalyptus): Species like

Eucalyptus curtisii attract native bees and birds with their nectar-filled flowers.

Banksia: Local options such as Banksia integrifolia and Banksia spinulosa provide vibrant flowers that attract bees, birds, and small mammals.

Bottlebrush (Melaleuca): These lowmaintenance plants offer food and shelter to possums, lizards, insects, and birds.

Wattle (Acacia): Brisbane’s Acacia fimbriata and other wattle species in SEQ feature beautiful yellow or white flowers and provide habitat and food for birds and native bees. hlw.org.au dispensary is based in Coral Street Maleny and has been operated by local award winning naturopath and author Dominique Livkamal since 1999 on the Blackall Range.

Dom and her family manufacture organic herbal medicines that they formulate personal herbal blends for their patients.

All of their herbs are organic extractions and are all made on the premises.

The Medicine Room offers free walk in clinics across all platforms and if you are in Maleny on a Thursday they are open from 10am till 3pm weekly.

Please call in at your convenience as no appointments are taken. The intention of these clinics is to create personal herbal medicines for you to develop optimal wellness and address your health concerns.

Dom is running a long table wellness day in Maleny on July 23 where you can come for education and lunch.

The topic is Reboot and reset. There is also a new online course starting on July 25 and you can see all details and make bookings at www.medicineroom.com.au