Provide a focal point for environmental programs and services associated with the surrounding area, engage the local community as well as acknowledge and support the cultural heritage of the area.
REF proposes to develop the facility for the use of other community groups and provide a collaborative working space for volunteers, environmental research and educational staff and students related to the cultural, historical and environmental assets of the local area and the Moreton Bay region. The facility also has the capacity to act as an interface with the local community encouraging them to enjoy, appreciate and learn about the local environment through participating in interactive and interpretive activities, displays and events associated with the surrounds. Proposed activities and events include:
Acknowledge and work collaboratively with the local indigenous people to highlight and promote the values of their culture and ongoing reconciliation actions
Provide workshops and seminars for the public especially those who wish to learn more about the flora, fauna and ecology of the Moreton Bay Region
Provide a venue for environmental service workshops (e.g. Turtle stranding and rescue methods, Koala care and rescue, Bushcare skills, workplace safety)
Connect with the Tertiary sector and develop research programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students in environmental sciences
Provide educational programs for secondary students and teachers linking the local environment to STEM subject matter (e.g. datasets on flora and fauna, water quality and monitoring methods)
Public displays and exhibits providing interpretive material (e.g. signage and information sheets connected to multimedia resources via QR codes)
Provide a meeting place for the Bushcare programs conducted by REF at Hays Inlet, Nathan Road Wetlands and Friends of the Deception Bay Conservation Park
Provide a collaborative space for citizen science projects including saltmarsh and mangrove monitoring, fauna surveys and environmental restoration programs
Host events to provide a networking opportunity for other community groups to share ideas, methods and stories.