One constant over the last 50 years remains; the need for someone to speak up and safeguard the future of the natural environment.
For many environmental organisations, the dream is simple: flourishing communities living in harmony with a healthy natural environment. For the North Queensland Conservation Council (NQCC) this is their vision, and they’ve been tirelessly working toward it for 50 years.
It all began back in 1973, when the newly elected Whitlam Government announced funding for a national network of regional environmental councils, leading to the formation of NQCC.
The network of councils can band together and amplify their voices on critical environmental issues across Queensland, whilst staying deeply connected to their local communities and empowering them to protect the natural treasures in their own backyard.
When local rivers, creeks and the Great Barrier Reef are threatened by toxic pollution, NQCC is there to hold polluters accountable. When activities threaten entire ecosystems, NQCC stands firm and says, “Not on our watch.” And when proposals and reports contain jargon and half-truths, NQCC breaks it down so everyone can understand the real impact.
Advocacy isn’t just about influencing policy. It’s about driving sustainable change, inspiring individual action, and creating positive outcomes for wildlife, habitats and ecosystems.
Here are a few campaigns from the past 50 years that showcase NQCC’s unwavering commitment to protect the health of waterways in the Townsville Dry Tropics region. Join them in celebrating their 50th anniversary with “Stories of the Wild North.”
As an anniversary project, NQCC have collected stories from people involved in environmental activism in North Queensland in the past 50 years.
“As we celebrate half a century as the voice for the environment in North Queensland, it’s been wonderful to learn about past campaigns through the personal recollections of those who stepped up to protect the natural places we enjoy today,” reflects Crystal Falknau, current NQCC Coordinator.
“We’re really proud to celebrate this milestone and act as a voice for the promotion and protection of our diverse environments in North Queensland.”
Stay up to date with NQCC’s local environmental advocacy work, events and learn how you can get involved by subscribing to their e-newsletter – Paperbark.
A wonderful turn out at NQCC's 50th celebrations in August. Photo: Luna Prince