Queensland university flags plans to close Daintree Rainforest Observatory

A Far North MP has blasted James Cook University for threatening to close an “invaluable” research asset nestled in the heart of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

James Cook University's Daintree Rainforest Observatory. Pic by Dean Miller

A Far North MP has blasted James Cook University for threatening to close an “invaluable” research asset nestled in the heart of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

The Daintree Rainforest Observatory, based near Cape Tribulation around 150km north of Cairns, features one of the world’s few tropical forest canopy access cranes.

In 2014 the facility was upgraded to include conference facilities, laboratories and additional accommodation.

The Daintree Rainforest Observatory includes the rainforest canopy crane, which is 47m high with a 55m arm that can rotate around the central tower giving researchers direct access to a hectare of treetops.

But deputy vice-chancellor Jenny Seddon said the field station was severely under-utilised by students and academics, with operation costs of around $400,000 unsustainable.

“JCU is seeking to consult and be transparent about the possibility of closure, and we are genuinely seeking feedback,” Professor Seddon said.

“Clearly though, it is not sustainable to run the field station as it is currently operated.

“The savings from the closure of the station, and the possible sale of the land and buildings, would provide funds to support other university activities including teaching and research.”

The field station features labs and accommodation for students, researchers and guests.

In a letter to JCU’s vice-chancellor, Professor Simon Biggs, Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch argued the facility played a crucial role in education and community engagement.

“The observatory has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of rainforest ecosystems with particular relevance to the Daintree – a region of extraordinary environmental performance,” Mr Entsch wrote.

“Given recent events like Cyclone Jasper and the devastating landslides that followed, the DRO’s work has never been more critical in supporting the long-term recovery and ecological resilience of this region.”

Accommodation at the Daintree Rainforest Observatory, near Cape Tribulation.

In a statement, the university said the DRO’s 47m high canopy crane was also nearing the end of its serviceable life and would cost an estimated $3m to replace.

Warren Entsch has written to James Cook University this week. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

But Mr Entsch declared that the benefits far outweighed the costs.

“I urge you to seriously consider the implications of closing the [DRO] and to explore alternative avenues to secure its future,” Mr Entsch wrote to Professor Biggs.

“I trust you will give these concerns due consideration and I hope that JCU will maintain its commitment to this invaluable facility and to the unique opportunities it provides for education, research and community engagement.”

Originally published as Queensland university flags plans to close Daintree Rainforest Observatory