News
4 April, 2025
A win for shorebirds
THE Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association (BIEPA) has officially ratified its membership in the Moreton Bay: Home of Shorebirds (MBHS) Alliance on March 25, marking a significant step in strengthening conservation efforts and fostering eco tourism in the region.
This new partnership, celebrated at a packed meeting at the Bribie Island RSL, highlights the importance of protecting the vital shorebird habitats of Moreton Bay while promoting sustainable tourism.
The MBHS Alliance plays a crucial role in improving the liveability of Moreton Bay by safeguarding essential coastal habitats for migratory shorebirds. Alongside habitat protection, the initiative focuses on enhancing avitourism — birdwatching tourism — in the region, encouraging longer stays for visitors as outlined in the Moreton Bay Tourism Opportunities Plan (TOP).
A report by Dr. Rochelle Steven in 2022 highlighted the urgent need for action to protect Moreton Bay, naming it a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) at risk. The report emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships among environmental organizations to restore and protect these critical habitats.
Avitourism, increasing awareness and appreciation of shorebirds, and recognizing conservation efforts are central to this partnership.
BIEPA President, Richard Ogden, expressed excitement about the alliance. “BIEPA is extremely proud to participate in this important alliance, celebrating and protecting our vulnerable and significant shorebirds,” he said.
Chair of the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) Oceania, Colin Scobie, also praised the community-driven conservation effort. “The addition of BIEPA further underscores the strength of grassroots movements in shaping a sustainable future,” he said.
The MBHS Alliance is committed to six key objectives, including habitat protection, fostering community engagement, strengthening eco-tourism partnerships, and promoting sustainable practices. The aim is to create a sustainable future where nature and community thrive together.
With BIEPA’s involvement in the MBHS Alliance, the focus on conserving Moreton Bay’s fragile ecosystems continues to grow. Those passionate about protecting Moreton Bay’s wildlife and supporting sustainable tourism are encouraged to get involved through volunteering, advocacy, or eco-tourism. Together, these efforts will help secure a better future for the shorebirds and their habitats.
