The Australian Rainforest Foundation

The Australian Rainforest Foundation is a not for profit organisation working to protect and enhance one of the most threatened ecosystems on earth. The Foundation aims to raise money from private citizens and corporations to support four major programs.

 
Protection - Ancient rainforests-future protection

One of the flagship projects of the Foundation is to secure habitat for endangered species. By purchasing key areas of private land, the Foundation creates crucial wildlife corridors for rainforest fauna. Volunteers assist with tree planting and weed control to help rehabilitate damaged forest.

Our protection program is currently focused on saving the last remaining cassowaries. Losing this colourful bird would mean more than just extinction of a single species.

The giant, flightless bird plays a pivotal role as a seed disperser in the rainforest. It is the only creature capable of distributing the oversized seeds of the rare ribbonwood, one of the many primitive flowering plants of the area. Cassowaries can spread more than 100 different seeds, many too toxic for other animals to eat, by passing them through their system as they move throughout the forest.

 
Research - Living laboratory

The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area has been evolving for millions of years. Some of its secrets are now being revealed through modern scientific techniques, which allow researchers to gently explore this rich and intriguing expanse.

As one of Australia's oldest living laboratories area holds much promise for the development of life saving medicines.

The Foundation supports research initiatives through universities and other institutions.

 
Education - Teaching future generations

Through education we can present our unique rainforest to future generations, instilling the respect and recognition it deserves. From public appreciation to primary, secondary and tertiary programs, the Foundation is working to build networks of knowledge across our community.

Presentation - Showing is knowing

The Foundation encourages people to visit the area to gain a first hand appreciation of its beauty and importance. To enhance this experience the Foundation is working with land management agencies to develop visitor information and interpretive centres and other facilities that are compatible with this sensitive ecosystem.

Contact ARF