General News
23 February, 2026
Nursery future in doubt
A GORDONVALE community nursery that supports volunteers, students and local conservation projects faces an uncertain future, with its lease set to expire on 31 March.
Mulgrave Landcare and Catchment Group Inc. operates from the former Gordonvale Fire Station at 105 Norman Street and an adjoining nursery site. The building is owned by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, while the nursery land is owned by Queensland Police Service.
Chairwoman Belinda Billing said about 12 volunteers used the site each week, with larger planting days attracting more than 60 people.
“It would be really hard to operate without our nursery,” she said.
“Our coordinator could reasonably work from home, but the nursery can’t work from home and our volunteers can’t volunteer from home.”
The group supplies native plants for revegetation projects across the region and works with local schools on conservation training pathways.
Coordinator Rachel Platte said the nursery supported students undertaking Certificate III studies in conservation and ecosystem management.
“They come and learn the nursery work and then we take them out on site, from washing pots to planting a tree,” she said.
“That program at the high school is getting stronger and stronger each year.”
Ms Billing said the benefits extended beyond environmental outcomes.
“The social engagement is really important,” she said.
“A lot of people want to make a difference in sustainability and conservation and Landcare provides the means to do that. As individuals, we don’t have a lot of power, but as an organised community, we do.”
In a statement, the Queensland Fire Department said discussions with tenants had been ongoing for nine months.
“Discussions between Queensland Fire Department (QFD) and the current tenants have occurred over the last nine months and the department is exploring various avenues which may support the tenant’s occupancy for a period of time,” it said.
The department said no decision had been made about the disposal of the old fire station site.
The police service was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.
Member for Mulgrave Terry James said he was confident an extension could be secured but acknowledged no formal agreement had yet been reached.
“He will continue to advocate for this group and hopes to get a definite answer in the next couple of weeks,” his office said.
Ms Billing said the group had begun preliminary discussions with council about alternative land for the nursery, although no buildings were available.
“If no extension is granted, we will need to look at other options,” she said.
“But we really do appreciate Terry James’ support. We understand he’s a new MP and he has stepped up and tried to help. We’re just worried about being without a place.”
Mulgrave Landcare is also partnering with Mandingalbay Yidinji rangers on upcoming tree planting events, with 1000 trees to be planted each day this weekend near Pine Creek.
With the 31 March deadline approaching, the group says it needs clarity soon to ensure its nursery, volunteer programs and conservation partnerships can continue without disruption.
