Logan City Council snaps up 47-hectare Bahrs Scrub land to support conservation

Almost half of the site, spread across two lots in Belivah Road, is made up of rainforest and includes a bush tucker species small-leaved tamarind.

The small-leaved tamarind is most commonly found growing at the Tallebudgera Valley in the Gold Coast.

Two new plant species have been identified on the site and have been named the Bahrs Scrub croton and Bahrs Scrub devil's needles.

The area contains the endangered shiny-leaved Coondon, native Macadamia trees and several blue gums.

Logan City Council's director of Strategy and Sustainability David Hansen said the land purchase supported the construction of a green infrastructure network in Logan.

"Council has done extensive research and sought expert advice which confirmed this site is a critical habitat for multiple endangered, vulnerable, near threatened and locally significant species," he said.

"Council's acquisition of this land is a responsible step in protecting the local environment and its preservation will contribute significantly to the conservation value of the surrounding area."

A Logan City Council spokesperson said details of the sale were commercial in confidence with the purchase price deemed fair market value by an independent land valuation.

The funds to purchase the land came from the Environmental Levy reserve.

Co-author of native plant field guide Mangroves to Mountains and environmentalist Glenn Leiper said the Bahrs Scrub and Belivah dry rainforest was revered as one of the best surviving forms of dry rainforests.

"To have such a significant concentration of threatened species in one small area is quite extraordinary, clearly emphasising its high conservation value," Mr Leiper said.

"I commend council for ensuring the preservation of this wonderful and important green space."

Mr Leiper said the area was a plant diversity hotspot with significant populations of at least 10 species under threat.