Whitehaven coal
27 January 2026
Narrabri Mine installs 100 new nesting boxes to support threatened species
Whitehaven’s Narrabri Mine has taken another step in its long-term commitment to biodiversity, installing 100 new nesting boxes across rehabilitated areas of the site to help provide habitat for threatened fauna species.
Around half of the nesting boxes were built from hollow logs salvaged during earlier land disturbance activities, allowing the team to repurpose natural materials that would otherwise have gone to waste. The boxes have been positioned throughout rehabilitated sections of the mine and are designed to support a range of species, including the Eastern Pygmy‑possum, Glossy Black‑Cockatoo, Little Lorikeet, Squirrel Glider and several microbat species.
Whitehaven’s Brent Baker, Manager Environment, said the project reflects Narrabri Mine’s ongoing focus on practical and meaningful biodiversity outcomes.
“Creating suitable habitat is one of the most important things we can do to support the return of threatened species,” he said.
“These nesting boxes give wildlife an opportunity to re‑establish in areas where vegetation is recovering, and they help accelerate the return of important ecological functions.”
He added that the use of salvaged hollow logs added an important layer of authenticity.
“Natural hollows take decades to form, so using recovered logs gives us an immediate way to create more realistic habitat structures.
“It’s a simple idea, but it makes a big difference to the species we’re trying to support.”
Installation of the nesting boxes required working at heights and the application of safe rope climbing methods. All activities were completed safely and in line with Whitehaven’s safety management systems, with the safe execution of the project a testament to the team’s planning and care.
“Our people did an excellent job,” Brent said. “We’re pleased to have delivered this project safely, and even more pleased to see the early signs of wildlife already investigating the new habitat.”
For more information on Whitehaven’s commitment to biodiversity, refer to our FY25 Sustainability Report.