Native Vegetation

The native vegetation in the Southern Downs Region is an outstanding feature that contributes to the region's unique character.  The distribution of forests, woodlands, grasslands and heaths is linked to the area's geology and associated soils, topography and climate.  The high altitude of the eastern and southern parts of the region has allowed for the establishment of several rare and vulnerable species that are not found in any other locations in Queensland.

The western parts of the region are dominated by grassy or shrubby woodlands where clearing for agriculture has not occurred.

The Vegetation Management Act administered by the Department of Natural Resources and Water sets down the rules and regulations that guide what clearing of native vegetation can be done, and how it must be done to meet the requirements of the law.

Areas of native vegetation (termed 'remnant vegetation') that remain in the region are a valuable resource providing a number of functions or ecosystem services.  These services can include provision of clean air and water, erosion and salinity control, shelter for livestock and crops, natural pest control, habitat for plans and animals and aesthetics.

Australia's biodiversity is unique!
  • 85% of our flowering plants (including 98% of our eucalypts) are found nowhere else
  • 90% of our freshwater fish are found nowhere else
  • 13% of our tropical inshore marine fish are found nowhere else
  • 85% of our temperate inshore marine fish are found nowhere else
  • 84% of our mammals are found nowhere else
  • 45% of our birds are found nowhere else
  • 89% of our reptiles are found nowhere else
  • 93% of our frogs are found nowhere else

In a productive landscape, a balance needs to be achieved between production and nature conservation.