Protecting Shorebirds of the Sunshine Coast

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Coexisting with Wildlife

Protecting Shorebirds of the Sunshine Coast

The North Shore Shorebird Conservation and Recreation project is a collaborative initiative between the Sunshine Coast Council and researchers to balance recreational use with the protection of significant environmental values. By understanding visitor patterns and attitudes, the project identifies management strategies to reconcile dog-related recreation with the conservation of local shorebird populations.

About this project

This project addresses the challenges of managing multi-use coastal areas where high recreational demand, particularly off-leash dog exercise, overlaps with sensitive shorebird habitats. It sought to provide the Sunshine Coast Council with evidence-based insights into who visits the North Shore, their recreational habits, and their perceptions of different conservation strategies to reduce human and domestic dog impacts.

Our approach

The research team conducted a comprehensive community survey involving 2,076 participants through both online platforms and in-person interviews at the North Shore. The study evaluated visitor demographics, visitation patterns, and desired visit outcomes. It also measured public support for various management options, such as seasonal restrictions or the expansion of off-leash areas, to ensure future strategies are socially acceptable and effective.

Goals/key achievements

Key outcomes identified were:
  • Visitor Profiling: Established a detailed understanding of North Shore visitors, identifying that the area is highly valued for off-leash dog access.
  • Impact Awareness: Discovered a significant knowledge gap regarding the impact of domestic dogs on shorebirds, highlighting the need for targeted community education.
  • Strategy Evaluation: Identified widespread support for non-restrictive strategies, such as providing more bins, bag dispensers, and expanding off-leash areas in less sensitive zones.
  • Management Guidance: Found moderate support for partial seasonal restrictions, providing a pathway for council to implement balanced management during peak shorebird periods.

Status

Ongoing
This project is ongoing, with current work focused on using the survey findings to develop and socialise management strategies with the community. Researchers continue to collaborate with the Sunshine Coast Council to refine these approaches and monitor their potential impact on both recreation and bird conservation.

Project Partners

Understanding People and Nature

Research That Makes a Difference

We explore how people connect with the environment from urban green spaces to ocean reefs, and develop strategies to promote conservation stewardship and meaningful engagement with the natural world. Through citizen science, community partnerships, and innovative communication strategies, we’re working to strengthen the connections between people and nature for lasting conservation impact.