Daintree – how the buy back project works

The Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever Project has a simple formula, freehold properties at risk of development are purchased and placed in system of Nature Refuge’s. Rainforest Rescue’s Executive Officer, Kelvin Davies explains how the project works….

Rainforest Rescue is a not-for-profit organisation providing opportunities for individuals, families, organisations and businesses to become involved in successful projects that protect and restore our dwindling rainforests. Its mission is to save our rainforests for current and future generations. Rainforest Rescue is involved in rainforest restoration and research, aimed at improving rainforest restoration and conservation, the purchasing of the property as well as its protection.

One of Rainforest Rescue’s more important objectives is the purchase and protection of rainforest blocks in the Daintree that are earmarked for development. This is achieved through the Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever Project. Once enough funds are raised, Rainforest Rescue searches for a suitable property that meets its criteria, organises legal searches and proceeds to purchase the property.

Rainforest Rescue is registered with the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) as an Australian Company Limited by Guarantee. An independent Australian government body, ASIC, reports directly to the Australian Commonwealth Parliament, the Treasurer and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer. The Rainforest Rescue constitution, approved by ASIC, determines our purpose and our activities. The Rainforest Rescue board of directors has responsibility for managing the organisation and for submitting a detailed annual report and audited financial statement to ASIC.

Daintree Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How has the current situation in the Daintree come to be?
Prior to the creation of the Daintree National Park a developer purchased a large area of the Daintree rainforest from farmers and landholders. They also were able to convert some leasehold land to freehold. This occurred in the 1980’s when Jo Bjelke-Petersen’s pro development government was in power in Queensland.

Who presently owns the properties that Rainforest Rescue buys? The developer divided the larger properties into smaller lots and sold them as freehold properties to individual people all over Australia. These people may have had intentions to one day build on the property or they may have been property investors speculating on an increase in value. Many are now willing to sell to Rainforest Rescue.

How does Rainforest Rescue choose which properties to buy?Rainforest Rescue prioritises the purchase and protection of the most important properties – those that protect threatened species or rare plant communities. Prior to purchase the properties are assessed by scientists (botanists and biologists) to document the values of each property. We also prioritise the purchase of properties that create wildlife corridors for wildlife where none exist. This often involves purchasing properties adjacent to the Daintree National Park or State Reserves effectively extending their boundaries.

Does each $2 really buy and protect one square metre?
Yes, on average the price is less than $2 per square metre however the price of each property varies. For example we we’re able to save two properties in Forest Creek Road for $1.79 per square metre. Lot 7 is 5.16 hectares in size and Lot 8 is a 1.2 hectare property. A total of 6.26 hectares or 62,600 square metres. We paid $83,000 for Lot 7 and $29,000 for Lot 8. That equates to $1.79 per square metre.

Do the properties purchased have rainforest on them?
Yes, we preference the purchase of properties that have fully functional rainforest rather than buying cleared or partially cleared blocks. We aim to save what’s left before rehabilitating any damaged properties.

Are my donations tax deductible?Yes, any donation over $2 tax is deductible and Rainforest Rescue will issue receipts.

Does Rainforest Rescue receive any government funding?
No, we do not receive government funding. We are supported by donations from individuals, philanthropists, business sponsorship and foundation grants.

Who will own and manage the land? Rainforest Rescue, through its “Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever Project” owns and manages the land. Rainforest Rescue and its constitution are registered with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission to which it submits its audited annual reports. The constitution details its specific and restricted purpose and activities as a rainforest conservation organisation. It cannot develop the land. The constitution also stipulates that in the event of the Rainforest rescue winding up, all assets must be transferred to an organisation with the same conservation objectives and legal standing.

How will the purchased rainforest be protected from development in the future?
Negotiations have been made with the Queensland State government to have the properties declared as a Nature Refuge. Creating a Nature Refuge in Queensland requires an act of parliament where the Nature Refuge is gazetted. This agreement with the Queensland government is binding on the title and removes all future development rights from the land. The properties saved through the Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever Project have the highest level of protection in Queensland.

Can Rainforest Rescue develop the land?
No, Rainforest Rescue can never develop the land. When the land is purchased we place a covernant on the title which removes all future development rights. The properties are placed in a system of declared Nature Refuge’s. Because the land is now a dedicated Nature Reserve for the protection of its flora and fauna, even nature-based tourism activities, such as boardwalks, car parks and toilets are not permitted. The only activity allowed for, under the Nature Refuge negotiated with the Queensland government, is the ethical collection of seeds for the specific purpose of revegetation works in the Daintree Coast region.

Will there be ongoing costs such as rates?
Negotiations have been made with the Douglas Shire Council to waive rates on all of the properties. Conveyancing services are provide by a project supporter at no cost. The only expense is State Government Stamp Duty, which is reimbursed once the properties are declared as a Nature Refuge.

What condition is the land in?
The rainforest on the land being purchased is in very good to excellent condition. Intact rainforest covers almost 100% of the properties. The protected land is excellent habitat for many threatened species including the Cassowary and includes rare regional ecosystems.

What about weeds?
Invasive weeds threaten the integrity of natural landscapes right across Australia, so weed control needs to be considered. Due to the excellent condition of the rainforest purchased, there is minimal occurrence of weeds. Several naturalists and ecologists supporting the project have taken on the important role of weed management.

Can I visit the properties?
Yes, Rainforest Rescue run tours that can show you the properties (see page 4). We can also provide you with directions as the properties are on established roads in the Daintree.

If you have any other questions we’d love to hear them. Please contact us by email info@rainforestrescue.org.au or phone 1300 763 611