
There is a need for an extensive area of riparian forest to be established along the northern banks of Obi Obi Creek. This was recommended in the Maleny LAP and subsequent reports on the precinct land. The width of the vegetation will be sufficient to establish this as a viable wildlife habitat, taking guidance from best environmental practice. Tree selection will feature species identified in the Recovery Plans of the threatened fauna species known for this area of the precinct eg, sandpaper figs on the banks for food and protection for Mary River cod, spiny crayfish and snapping turtle. Other plant species, such as the endangered bushnut (Macadamia ternifolia), watergum (Syzygium hodgkinsoniae) and locally germinated species will be featured and identified with interpretive signs.
The riparian vegetation will form an important link and be contiguous with the riparian vegetation occurring from the loop on Obi Obi Creek downstream towards Gardners Falls. This vegetation has been identified by Council as an Endangered Remnant Regional Ecosystem. The entire length of the riparian vegetation will be accessed via a walking path set back from the creek itself on level ground beyond the high banks. Short side trails to the creek’s edge will allow walkers to view select pools and areas of natural history interest. eg, viewing of platypus, kingfishers, herons, bush hen, butterflies, dragonflies, etc.
The trail along and through the riparian vegetation zone will form part of the main pathway linking Maleny township to Gardner’s Falls and in the future could form part of The Great Southeast Walk. This Queensland Government funded initiative could link Maleny with walking trails throughout southeast Queensland.