RESEARCH & CONSERVATION
Turtle Creek Ecolodge is our conservation-focused property, ecolodge, and research facility located in Iron Range, Cape York, Queensland. Set across 350 acres of pristine freehold rainforest adjoining Kutini–Payamu (Iron Range) National Park, the site provides exceptional access to one of Australia’s most understudied tropical bioregions.
Conservation and research are central to Turtle Creek’s purpose. The property operates as a hub for Traditional Owner engagement, scientific research, and technical support, contributing to long-term ecological and cultural outcomes in the region. We actively support the Kwaadji Kunachi Indigenous Ranger Program and facilitate ongoing wildlife, ecological, and cultural research across Cape York.
Turtle Creek provides a practical and well-supported base for researchers, Registered Native Title Bodies, local councils, and regional stakeholders. Our facilities include dedicated research infrastructure, accommodation, and space for sample processing and field operations.
Our onsite ecologists work in close partnership with our sister organisation, Insight Eco & Heritage, bringing more than 15 years’ experience in ecological research, biodiversity surveys, cultural heritage, and land management. Through strong relationships with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal Corporations, and State and Federal agencies, we also assist projects with permitting, logistics, and local engagement.
RESEARCH FACILITIES & SUPPORT
In addition to bespoke lodge accommodation, Turtle Creek offers a dedicated research facility with:
Adjoining accommodation
Camping and cooking areas
Space for sample processing and equipment
CURRENT & RECENT RESEARCH PROJECTS
Magnificent Riflebird Behavioural Ecology
Post-Doctoral Research – Fusani Lab
Post-doctoral researcher Thomas MacGillavry has undertaken a detailed behavioural study of the Magnificent Riflebird (Ptiloris magnificus) at Turtle Creek.
Male display perches have been identified across the property, with high-definition motion- sensitive cameras capturing courtship behaviour. This work has produced a comprehensive dataset, including the first high-definition recordings of full display sequences and successful copulations of Cape York’s Magnificent Riflebird.
Green Python Microclimate & Thermal Ecology
In collaboration with researchers from The Australian National University, our ecologists are conducting a baseline study of microclimate and thermal ecology for the Green Python (Morelia viridis).
Hygrometers and thermometers are strategically placed throughout the rainforest to record year-round thermal gradients across python habitat. This research will inform understanding of the species’ thermal tolerances and provide a foundation for assessing the impacts of climate change, increased cyclone activity and fire incursion on this highly restricted tropical species.
Indigenous-Led Conservation & Partnerships
Kwaadji-Kunachi Indigenous Ranger Program
Turtle Creek Ecolodge, alongside Insight Eco & Heritage, supports the Kwaadji-Kunachi Indigenous Ranger Program through:
Funding support and grant acquisition
Strategic planning
Technical advice and training
Capacity building and community empowerment
Indigenous-Led Conservation & Partnerships
We live and work on Kuuku Ya’u Country, and conservation at Turtle Creek is undertaken in close partnership with Traditional Owners.
Our team provides technical advice, training, grant writing and on-ground delivery of conservation priorities identified by the Kuuku Ya’u Registered Native Title Body Corporate. All research conducted at Turtle Creek is supported by the Kuuku Ya’u Board of Directors, who actively encourage collaboration, knowledge-sharing and contributions to the scientific record.
“A true conservationist knows that the world is not given by his fathers but borrowed from his children”