The 'Creek Doctor' diagnosis
In June 2020, Peter McAdam AKA the 'Creek Doctor' took a trip to consult on water flow issues endemic to south west Queensland.
Landholders in the south west region experience unique challenges around maintaining hydration in their landscapes because of the velocity in which water runs off the land as a result of historical landscape change - where it used to take two days for rainfall to move over the land, it now takes just two hours.
To help landholders in the south west region better understand what they can do to improve the conditions for water on their properties, SQ Landscapes engaged Peter McAdam AKA 'The Creek Doctor' to travel and consult at sites around Eulo, Hungerford, Quilpie and Charleville with the aim of improving landscape hydration and in-stream flows.
Peter is an environmental consultant specialising in fluvial geomorphology , a niche skill set which sees him prepare detailed environmental management plans, compliance activities for new and expanding developments, environmental awareness training and facilitating environmental workshops.
A small group of landholders whose properties fall within the priority areas under SQ Landscapes’ Regional Land Partnerships and Natural Resource Investment Programs gathered in each locality to hear from and discuss with Peter what opportunities they could explore to cost effectively slow the flow of water, how stream systems work from top to bottom and the legalities around what activities can be considered.
He discussed a number of topics with attendees including the hydrological cycle, understanding stream structures, creeks and catchment basics, factors that affect stream competence and permits including legal and physical access.
Here are the top 3 things Peter says are important to consider when working with waterways after his visit to the south west:
1. Some of the creek systems are in good condition and some are badly damaged. Think about ways to look after the good ones, don't just blow your time and budget trying to do big experimental jobs on highly degraded systems. Learn on the small stuff.
2. The water moves downstream and the sediments move downstream, so the erosion is moving upstream. Think about it. You will learn more about your system walking upsteam, 'thinking as the streambed' than you will walking downstream 'thinking as the water'.
3. Many of the interventions to improve infiltration and slow velocities won't require a permit. They are common farming practices. You can try them now - learn from each other. Many others are doing good things. Some works within creeks should need a permit. You may still be able to do them, but with reasonable and relevant conditions. Turn it into a learning exercise not a 'battle with bureaucracy'.
Extra tip:
If you're serious about this type of work, borrow or share a laser level. Parts of the country (in the south west region) are so flat that you probably won't pick the contours accurately without one. They're not that dear to buy, and great for many jobs like roads and yard building.
Every stream system and property is different, but it's important to look at the movement of water beyond fence lines and how it interacts with landscapes on a broader level.
We are very grateful to have had Peter come out for an initial consultation in the south west, and look forward to potentially working with him again later in 2020.
You can find the Creek Doctor on Facebook
or contact him via email: peter@thecreekdoctor.com or phone: 0427 100 960
Peter McAdam - The Creek Doctor
Mick Beresford with Peter McAdam
Group inspect photos
Glenn Landsberg (SQL) with Trish McKenzie (AgForce SW)
Erosion example, Farnham Plains
Group listen in Quilpie
Erosion example in creek, Farnham Plains
1. What is Natural Capital? Natural capital refers to the natural resources and ecosystems, like soils, native vegetation, water, and biodiversity, that underpin productive farming and provide essential services such as clean water, healthy soils and carbon storage. For Queensland landholders, this means your land’s value now includes the environmental benefits it delivers, not just crops or livestock. While the term Natural Capital has risen to prominence with government, industry and the public in recent years, the sustainable use of our natural capital, its maintenance and improvement have been fundamental to regional NRM organisations since inception. Identifying and assessing our natural assets are foundational to the development of our regional NRM strategies and plans which guide our operations and provide us with the knowledge and expertise to play a key role in Australia’s efforts to manage and enhance our Natural Capital. 2. Why Does Natural Capital Matter in Agriculture? Australian agriculture is experiencing a shift where nature and production are seen as interconnected assets. This approach is being driven by both market demand and new government policies, with natural capital now influencing land values, investments, and farm business resilience. 3. How Can Farmers Monetise Natural Capital? Natural capital markets allow landholders to earn income by improving or protecting their land’s natural assets. The most common ways to participate include: Carbon Credits: Under the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme, farmers can generate credits by adopting practices like reforestation, soil carbon improvement, or avoided clearing. These credits are regulated by the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) and can be sold to the government or private buyers. Biodiversity Certificates: The new federal Nature Repair Market, established by the Nature Repair Act 2023, allows farmers to earn tradable biodiversity certificates for projects that restore or protect native ecosystems. The CER also administers this market, ensuring robust oversight and scientific credibility. Land Restoration Fund (LRF): Queensland’s LRF builds on the federal framework, offering extra incentives for projects that deliver both carbon abatement and environmental co-benefits, such as improved water quality or habitat restoration. The LRF works in tandem with the ACCU Scheme and prioritises projects that support regional sustainability. More Information: π www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/natural-capital/explained π www.cer.gov.au/schemes/australian-carbon-credit-unit-scheme π www.qld.gov.au/environment/climate/climate-change/land-restoration-fund π www.nrmrq.org.au/queensland-nature-fund-natural-capital π www.legislation.gov.au/C2023A00121/latest/text
The Board of Southern Queensland Landscapes is pleased to announce Kimberley Swords has been appointed as Chair of the Board of Directors. Kimberley began her working life as a large animal country vet, after student practical experience across Southern Queensland in Goondiwindi and Injune. Kimberley’s strong interest in natural resource management and regional communities has led her to contribute across a wide variety of industries including the public sector, where she rose to the role of Deputy Secretary in the Australian Government and led environmental approvals, heritage and marine. Her extensive leadership experience incorporates many board roles, including as a current serving member of the CS Energy board. “Following an extensive recruitment phase, where the Southern Queensland Landscapes Board were gratified to receive several high-quality applications, we are delighted to announce the subsequent overwhelming member endorsement of Kimberley as Board Chair. The appointment of a new Chair in any organisation represents an opportunity for refreshment and renewal and the Southern Queensland Landscapes Directors and staff are looking forward to working with Kimberley to deliver our Strategic Plan” said acting Southern Queensland Landscapes Chair, Louise Winten. Kimberly looks forward to engaging with stakeholders across Southern Queensland, with her first full board meeting set down for late June in Charleville. “It is an exciting and challenging time for the region, as we lean into the changing climate, different economic opportunities, and the next generation of regional leaders. I look forward to connecting and collaborating across our communities to better understand how Southern Queensland Landscapes can support sustainable environmental outcomes that materially improve the lives of people living and working in Southern Queensland,” she said. The position of Chair became vacant following the retirement of founding Chair, and long term supporter of regional natural resource management, The Honourable Bruce Scott, AM, at the end of February 2025. Bruce made a significant contribution to Southern Queensland Landscapes during his time as Chair and the Board thanks him for dedication, time, energy, and commitment to the organisation. Southern Queensland Landscapes is one of 11 Queensland-based Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisations. Spanning 314,398 square kilometres, the our footprint encompasses the Condamine catchment, Qld Murray Darling Basin and the south-west Mulga Lands. Southern Queensland Landscapes relies on evidence based information, supported by First Nations knowledge, to effectively balance productivity and environmental outcomes that support the regional communities within our landscapes. ο»Ώ
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Southern Queensland Landscapes is seeking an experienced and influential Board Chair to lead a multi-skilled Board in managing natural resources across Southern Queensland. This is a 3-year remunerated role based in Toowoomba, QLD, with the flexibility to manage from anywhere in Southern QLD. The ideal candidate will bring: • Substantial experience leading diverse Boards • Strong relationship-building and leadership skills • Expertise in environmental and agricultural matters This role is an opportunity to shape the future of natural resource management, working closely with land managers, community leaders, and industry professionals. Are you ready to make an enduring impact? For more details and to apply, visit www.windsor-group.com.au/job/board-chair-natural-resources-peak-body or contact Mike Conroy at apply@windsor-group.com.au.
This week marked the final Board meeting for retiring Southern Queensland Landscape Chair, The Hon Bruce Scott AM. The Southern Queensland Landscapes Board hosted a function at Gip’s restaurant in Toowoomba, joined by past Directors, industry stakeholders and the Southern Queensland Landscapes Management team, where Bruce was warmly acknowledged and thanked. Bruce offered special thanks to his dear wife Joan for her support during his period of service to Southern Queensland Landscapes, in particular the warm country hospitality she has offered to many visitors to Roma. Bruce also recognised and thanked Southern Queensland Landscapes Company Secretary Pam Murphy, who has supported Bruce in his service to Southern Queensland Landscapes since the organisation’s inception. ο»Ώ
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