An Ode to the Daintree Rainforest
One of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth is now being protected from massive degradation. Hurray for Rainforest Rescue and the community of volunteers!
20250531-104731-Daintree River - Scarface and Dusty_DSC08545-©-Martin Stringer-web (2025) by Martin StringerRestor
Daintree Rainforest: biodiversity hotspot
Estimated to be over 135 million years old, making it older than the Amazon and the dinosaurs, the Daintree rainforest is home to 30% of Australia’s frog and reptile species, 90% of bat and butterfly species, and 18% of bird species.
Sadly, the Daintree has lost vital forest to agriculture and development, breaking the balance of a 135-million-year-old ecosystem. Thanks to Rainforest Rescue, restoration efforts are now unstoppable, bringing the forest back to life.
Nightwings Planting Site (2024) by Martin StringerRestor
In the face of deforestation, Rainforest Rescue is a force
Rainforest Rescue protects high conservation-value areas of the Daintree by buying back land, restoring forests, and preserving biodiversity. So far, they’ve restored 47 rainforest pockets, with over 245 hectares, nearly the size of Monaco.
Rebuilding the Daintree with love
Rainforest Rescue and volunteers form a powerful team. Their work is restoring the Daintree's ecosystems, and reviving ancient connections with nature.
Mossman Sugar Mill Closed Down (2025) by Martin StringerRestor
Project NightWings: from sugar cane farm to canopy
The local sugar mill closed its doors after more than a century, ending cane farming in the area. Rainforest Rescue then purchased the 18-hectare farm and started replanting trees to restore the land and bring back wildlife. They have now expanded the area further.
Rainforest Rescue on Restor (2025) by RestorRestor
How do you know a forest is truly returning?
Rainforest Rescue uses Restor to monitor the Daintree's recovery across 95 hectares, using data and satellite imagery. They analyze tree growth and carbon levels to chart the return of native species. See their impact.
The data on Restor shows that this land is deforestation free since 2001.
The Daintree has survived for millions of years. With care, it will thrive for millions more. Shouldn't stop, won't stop.
Rainforest Rescue Australia is a finalist of RestorLife Awards 2025. We thank them wholeheartedly for their support in documenting their work. For more stories, visit restor.eco
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