What does it take to build a rainforest from the ground up? 

The Federation Walk Coastal Reserve (FWCR) Ecological Restoration Project, led by Ecosure in partnership with the City of Gold Coast (CoGC), Regen Australia, and Ngarang-wal Gold Coast Aboriginal Association, is answering that question one plant, one dune, and one ecosystem at a time. 

Over five years this ambitious project, funded by the State and Federal Governments, is transforming degraded coastal land at The Spit into a thriving littoral rainforest. 

One of Australia’s most endangered and ecologically significant ecosystems, littoral rainforests are biodiversity hotspots. They provide habitats for native fauna, stabilise dune systems, and act as natural buffers against coastal erosion. 

Ecosure is proud to be the Principal Contractor on a project that’s not just restoring nature, it’s rebuilding an entire ecosystem. 

🌱 Why Littoral Rainforest Matters 

Littoral rainforests are one of Australia’s most endangered ecological communities. Found along coastal zones, these forests are biodiversity hotspots, home to a rich variety of native flora and fauna. They play a vital role in: 

• Stabilising dune systems 

• Providing habitat for threatened species 

• Acting as natural buffers against erosion and extreme weather 

• Preserving cultural and ecological heritage 

Restoring this ecosystem at The Spit is a major step toward ecological resilience and long-term sustainability for the Gold Coast.  

🔧 What We’re Doing 

As Principal Contractor, Ecosure is delivering a comprehensive restoration program that includes: 

• Primary and follow-up weed control to reduce competition and support native regeneration 

• Mulch installation to prepare the soil for planting and suppress weeds 

• Revegetation with over 220,000 tube stock, establishing a coastal dune complex dominated by littoral rainforest species 

• Assisted regeneration in areas of existing native vegetation to promote natural recovery 

• Ground truthing, photo monitoring, and plant survival assessments to track progress and adaptively manage the site 

• Conducting flights using drones to capture high resolution imagery and video to assist demonstrating the changes on site.  

🤝 Collaboration & Cultural Connection 

Working alongside Ngarang-wal Gold Coast Aboriginal Association has brought cultural depth and local knowledge to the project. Their involvement ensures that restoration efforts are respectful, inclusive, and aligned with First Nations people’s values. In addition, the project has created meaningful pathways for Indigenous traineeships, supporting First Nations participants in undertaking a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management while gaining practical experience on site with Ecosure. 

📅 What’s Next? 

As with any large-scale ecological restoration project, the timing of works may shift depending on seasonal conditions and site progress. Upcoming planting phases are planned for late 2025 and into 2026, aligning with the most suitable conditions to support healthy plant establishment and long-term ecosystem resilience. 

We’re committed to adapting our approach as needed to ensure the best outcomes for the rainforest and the broader coastal environment. 

Published 08/10/25