Call to make ‘mind-blowing’ south-east Qld reef a marine reserve – Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Protection Measures for Mudjimba Island Reef in South-East Queensland

Authorities in Queensland are taking significant steps to protect the vulnerable coral reef near Mudjimba Island, off the Sunshine Coast, by installing up to 15 mooring points. This initiative aims to prevent damage caused by boat anchors, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Installation of Mooring Points

• The Queensland government will establish up to 15 mooring points around Mudjimba Island to allow boats to anchor safely without harming the coral.
• These moorings are fully funded in the current budget and are scheduled for installation over the next 12 months, weather permitting.
• Despite the installation, there are currently no restrictions on anchoring in the area.

This initiative aligns with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting sustainable tourism practices that minimize environmental impact.

Community and Political Support

• The campaign for mooring points has received backing from local councillors, divers, regular visitors, and Maroochydore MP Fiona Simpson.
• Ms. Simpson described the project as a “great example of environmental tourism,” highlighting the importance of balancing human activity with ecosystem preservation.

Ecological Significance of the Mudjimba Reef

Environmental charity Reef Check Australia emphasizes the exceptional biodiversity of the Mudjimba reef, noting its “mind-blowing” coral diversity comparable to the Great Barrier Reef. This supports SDG 15: Life on Land, by recognizing the importance of protecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Coral Diversity and Research Findings

• The reef features a rich mix of both soft and hard corals, representing one of the highest levels of hard coral in south-east Queensland.
• University of Queensland’s UniDive project, involving citizen scientists and volunteers, conducted extensive surveys during COVID lockdowns, revealing the reef’s extensive size and health.
• These findings underscore the reef’s ecological value and the need for its conservation.

Proposal for Marine Reserve Designation

Experts and advocates suggest that while mooring points are beneficial, designating the Mudjimba reef as a marine reserve would provide permanent protection, advancing SDG 14 by ensuring sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

Benefits of Marine Reserve Status

1. Permanent protection from damaging activities such as anchoring and potentially fishing.
2. Support for marine biodiversity, including various animal species that frequent the area.
3. Enhancement of fish stocks in surrounding waters due to no-fishing zones.
4. Promotion of sustainable tourism and community engagement with natural environments.

Sunshine Coast councillor Joe Natoli supports the reserve proposal, highlighting the lack of marine parks between Moreton Island and Sandy Cape and the need for replenishment areas to sustain fish populations, aligning with SDG 14 targets.

Future Conservation Discussions and Sustainable Practices

While no evidence of overfishing currently exists, experts advocate for discussions on fishing restrictions to protect the reef’s health. This approach reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, encouraging collaboration among government, scientists, and communities.

Key Considerations for Future Actions

• Engaging stakeholders in conversations about sustainable use and protection measures.
• Balancing environmental protection with continued public access and enjoyment.
• Recognizing the positive ecological impact of well-protected marine areas on adjacent ecosystems.

MP Fiona Simpson emphasizes the importance of inclusive dialogue before imposing restrictions, ensuring community support and awareness while safeguarding the reef for future generations.

Conclusion

The installation of mooring points near Mudjimba Island represents a proactive step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to marine conservation and sustainable use. The potential designation of the area as a marine reserve could further enhance protection efforts, promoting biodiversity, sustainable tourism, and community engagement. Continued research, stakeholder collaboration, and thoughtful policy development will be essential to ensure the long-term health and resilience of this exceptional coral reef ecosystem.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water
   • The article focuses on protecting coral reefs and marine biodiversity around Mudjimba Island, which directly relates to SDG 14.
2. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Although primarily marine-focused, the article mentions environmental tourism and conservation efforts that indirectly support terrestrial ecosystems.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The installation of moorings to prevent anchor damage reflects sustainable use of marine resources.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Coral reef protection contributes to climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.

2. Specific Targets Under Identified SDGs

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water
   • Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts.
   • Target 14.5: Conserve at least 10% of coastal and marine areas through effectively managed marine protected areas.
   • Target 14.4: Effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing to restore fish stocks.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.8: Ensure people have relevant information for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for Target 14.2:
   • Extent of coral reef area protected and health status of coral reefs (implied by monitoring anchor damage and coral condition).
2. Indicator for Target 14.5:
   • Percentage of marine areas designated as marine reserves or protected areas (implied by discussions about creating marine reserves and mooring installations).
3. Indicator for Target 14.4:
   • Fish stock levels and fishing restrictions enforcement (implied by concerns about fishing bans and fish stock replenishment).
4. Indicator for Target 12.8:
   • Public awareness and engagement in sustainable tourism and conservation efforts (implied by involvement of local communities and citizen scientists).
5. Additional Indicators:
   • Number of mooring points installed to reduce anchor damage.
   • Volunteer hours and citizen science data collected (e.g., 8,000 hours of reef inspection).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: abc.net.au