Newsletter of WILDCARE Incorporated Tasmania’s largest incorporated volunteer organisation, caring for wild places, wildlife and cultural heritage. C/o GPO Box 44 Hobart 7001, Australia. Ph 03 6233 2836. Fax 03 6224 0884. E-mail:
ensure thatprojectfunding r WILDCARE kshop Outcomes WILDCARE WILDCARE WILDCARE and MUST BE 2003 gro ¥ found under Management meetingschedule, along withthe2003Boardof Project FundingSubmissionForm wildcaretas.org.au> under WILDCARE The new Onlineformisonthe PRIOR TO EACH MEETING ¥R ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ Outcomes Toni Hill JohnRees, Simco, Howard RobHill, Brenton Murphy, Brendaand Tara Pursell, Pursell, Jennifer Steven Pursell, Anne Kiely, JohnVarga, Rodney AnnetteVarga, Milner, PhilipMilner, Nermut, from Centrelink to make this Inc seeksnecessary recognition Recommended that T and othervolunteer categories). art publicspeaking (e.g. zoology, relevant to theregistration form any aspectof Activity recognised inrelationto and Reserves. Instant accesstoactivity inParks have immenseskillstocontribute). people maderedundantbut who Ideal for50Ð60yearolds(i.e. mutual obligationrequirements. intermsof “approved activity” some offices ofCentrelinkasan WILDCARE asmania anotherway todothis. eg Annual Conference 2003… Online… ups istration with Volunteering Fo WILDCARE website
News individual authorisation. members assistingstaff website WILDCARE are fulfilling the ¥ Where are promised ¥ Lack of public requirements of Centrelink’s mutual signs for adopted interest in the problem. obligation policy. tracks? ¥ People deliberately ¥Also where is the drive over them. Topic: Hut Warden Program Track Manual? ¥ Some roads (i.e. Convenor: Lyle Rubock ¥ Introductions, Narawntapu) need Attendees: Joan Fitzallen, Ian names and phone chicanes to slow Fitzallen, Bruce Tivendale, Pat numbers of new motorists down. McGuire, Brian McGuire, Fran Lee, Facilitators needed. ¥ Appropriate signage Mark Alexander, Antoinette ¥Workshop training (new signs out but only Augustrius, Jim Buchanan, Nita courses. What’s the being trialed in limited Poutney future of these. places). More [workshops] required. ¥ Animal silhouettes are good, why Outcomes ¥ Approach the PWS aren’t there more of them in high ¥ Roles and duties of as to their willingness to risk areas? Track Wardens continue with Adopt-a- ¥ Signs with local care group numbers (Waterfall Valley) Track and how (e.g. on them, different areas have explained. workshops). different contact numbers. ¥ Discussion regarding ¥ Is the review of ¥Problem: Will groups be able to funding of the Pelion Adopt-a-Track cope with increased numbers. Hut to extend the guidelines in 12 months Needs further discussion. program. time going to be ¥Problems with undertaken by PWS in 2. Signs are stolen or shot at inadequately equipped conjunction with ¥Produce a video about road kill walkers discussed. WILDCARE Inc? Will Track issues. ¥General discussion about Overland Caretakers be invited to participate? ¥ Lobby local Councils to put up road track walkers and their expectations. Board progress to date: signs. Board progress to date: a) Profiles of the new PWS District ¥Produce a brochure for tourists with a) The Cradle Mountain Field Centre Facilitators including contact local care group numbers and has allocated funds for the details are in this issue and the information and put in the pack 2003/04 season in its budget, for next issue of WILDTIMES. given to people volunteer reimbursement costs for b) The track manual is being coming off the Waterfall Valley-based Hut finalised by 3 volunteers ‘Spirit’ferries. Wardens. The Field Centre has involved with the Program ¥ Get a been invited to lodge a funding and is planned to be script that can be submission to WILDCARE if they released by July 2003. read over the wish to run volunteers at Pelion c) The Chairperson is currently ‘Spirit’radio next season. having discussions with station so tourists b) OH&S issues need to be resolved relevant PWS staff hear it before they between WILDCARE and the regarding the other issues. disembark. Field Centre. Topic: Wildlife Care and 3. Pre-paid Topic: Adopt-a-Track Program Rescue Mobile phones Convenor: Alison Scott Convenor: Julia ButlerÐRoss ¥The issue of pre-paid mobile phones needs to be thought through more. Attendees: Howard Participants: Pat ¥ Need guidelines regarding Simco, Gordon Cott, McGuire, Alistair Ross, coordination of who gets the phone Lyn Jackson, Bruce Lorraine McDonald, and when, and how is it used etc? Tivendale, Mark Judy Synott, Evelyn Alexander, Fran Funk, Caroline Shemwell, Heather 4. Coordinators Lee, Ian Fitzallen, Joan ¥ Need to meet to discuss all the Fitzallen, Philip Milner, Warden, Julie Nermut and Peter Tonelli issues either through Nature Rodney Milner, Nita Conservation Branch or Poutney, Rob Hill, Toni Key to Success for WILDCARE. Hill, Annette Varga, in ¥ There is a need to set standards and John Varga, Steven WILDCARE 2003–4: guidelines for carers and groups. Pursell, Tara Pursell, Jennifer Pursell, Good Communication Brenda Murphy, Brenton Murphy, ¥ WILDCARE take responsibility for Points from Discussion: Brian McGuire carer groups. ¥Would like a 3Ð5 year plan. 1. Road kill Outcomes ¥Great concern about numbers of ¥Parks & Wildlife Service to be 5. Public Access to Carers dead animals on the road (mainly approached about lack of support ¥ Need direct links to public. tourists). for volunteers. ¥ Central number useful: RSPCA & WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 3 July 2003 P&WS are difficult to works, etc). ¥A brochure on native animal rescue reach. ¥ Hospitals: could be produced for distribution ¥ Distribute numbers Could be a source through the tourist industry, through Police of equipment (i.e. including district numbers of carer (Bushcare Program) and old humidicribs, groups. These should be available at Emergency Services. out of date Tourist Information offices and in pharmaceutical, the ‘Spirit’ tourist packs. This could 6.Advertising damaged be done through WILDCARE •‘Spirit of Tasmania’, instruments, funding program. radio station and tourist opened but not ¥A script for radio or TV packs. used sterile dressing trays, announcements written to advertise ¥Tourist Centres as a brochure giving bandages, etc) and highlight native animal rescue local coordinator numbers for each ¥ Pharmacies: Out of Date items such and emergency care and numbers. district. as iodine, disinfectants, bandages, ¥The brochure and scripts could be ¥Radio and TV through Community etc. done through Service Announcements. ¥ Lifeline, St Vincent’s, WILDCARE using ¥ Increase in calls may be chaotic to Salvation Army, etc. all funding, but also start with, but will sort out can supply cots, accessing the skills eventually. material, etc. and knowledge of ¥ Action: Perhaps bags WILDCARE 7. Euthanasing with a logo (i.e. members to design, ¥ Adult animals at large in WILDCARE) could be and publish the community (particularly sick/ distributed to the above material. mangy wombats) Police, SES or organisations for Board progress to Fire Brigades can be very helpful. donations and collected date: from time to time. a) These numerous 8. Pre-Release and Release ¥Government should issues are still to be sites make more funding available for discussed by the Board. ¥ Need for registration of facilities. more training (advanced in b) Wildlife careres and NCB staff have particular) and expenses such as recently participated in a one day 9. Training pathology, etc. workshop. ¥Beginners need training before they 12. Structural issues Topic: Care Program receive animals. ¥ There seems to be assessment — OBP monitoring ¥ Mentoring works well pressure to prevent carer as an example groups from organising (i.e. an experienced Convenor: Bevis Dutton carer in close contact and developing on their Attendees: Jim Buchanan, Richard with a new carer. terms. ¥ Animal welfare is Hammond, John Rees, Anne Kiely, ¥Group information Antoinette Augustinus, Peter Mooney sharing. paramount, but if carer ¥ Need for groups are well trained accreditation and and organised then good standards for carers — commitment animal care will follow. The to on-going training programs. 13.Action: Carers and POSSUM 10. Banding/Tagging/Tattooing coordinators need to meet to discuss issues and future SHED ¥ It is unknown what the survival rate directions Westerway (Nr Mt Field NP) for released fostered animals is. ¥ Need to stop the ‘backyarders’ who ¥Are we wasting our time (and take animals in as pets and treat money) if the majority are not going them inappropriately. to survive simply because of their contact with humans Non-rip tags ¥ More needs to be done to emphasise are available. Birds are banded to the public the special under license. requirements necessary to care for native animals 11. Funding 14. Recommendations ¥The cost of raising animals is enormous. WILDCARE program ¥A statewide meeting of experienced has funds; Community or Seedling carers, coordinators and appropriate Grants through Local Councils. stakeholders (i.e. Nature Conservation Branch, PWS, etc) Doesn’t have to be money — 10% discount to Councils can donate ‘in-kind’ (i.e. needs to be convened as soon as timber, filing cabinets, old possible. WILDCARE could WILDCARE members computers or do some on-ground facilitate and fund such a meeting. on all gifts. 4 Outcomes Topic: Support the ¥ BOM to get in direct contact with ¥Evaluation of Supporters government heads to advise what participants required WILDCARE Inc is about. ensuring appropriate Convenor: Jo Field Board progress to date: skills. Attendees: Alison Scott, a) Vice Chairperson has met with ¥Briefings/training Gordon Scott, Hank Bryan Green (Minister for PIWE), required prior to work Straach, Antoinette who had a positive attitude commencement. Augustinus, Lyn Jackson, towards WILDCARE and the ¥ Feedback to Richard Hammond, Lyle members’ volunteer efforts. The participants Rubock, Brian McGuire, Minister has undertaken to arrange necessary. Nita Poutney, Mark a briefing to the Minister of ¥Works programs desirable on top of Alexander, Fran Lee, Jim Buchanan, Tourism, Parks, OBP work. Rob Hill, Pat McGuire Heritage & Arts. ¥Program assessment required b) The Vice- Outcomes determining success or worth. Chairperson and ¥ Re-engage the Board progress to date: another Board department by meeting member are waiting WILDCARE is to make half way with provision for a meeting date to representation to Nature Conservation of admin support. be confirmed by the Branch and Parks & Wildlife Service ¥Why don’t the Secretary of Dept of on improved communications at Departments recognise Tourism, Parks, change-over of volunteers; the end- WILDCARE Inc? Heritage & Arts to results of the season re bird counting; ¥ Meeting with discuss the above and better OH&S briefings prior to Premier/Minister Green. issues. volunteers going into the field. ¥Are WILDCARE members c) Conference attendees and Board appreciated? members have agreed in principal ¥ Petition signed by WILDCARE that a 0.03 FTE admin position members. will be funded out of WILDCARE ¥Letter to Departmental heads to funds. The Chairperson has meet and discuss. approached the department for in- ¥Work undertaken by members kind support (office space, etc), recognised by Departments. that has been agreed to; as well as the possibility of the position ¥ All funding for admin support to being matched by departmental come from departments as their funds, which is yet to be approved. contribution to the Partnership. number of years now has been the Chairperson’s Report WILDCARE Office volunteer, who has provided an enormous amount of Once again we have had a busy, Southern Midlands Council (for an time, effort and commitment to productive, and at times, Adopt a Reserve program) and recent ensuring that databases are up to date challenging year. discussion with the RTBG and the and working bee fliers are sent out. If You, the members have grown in Derwent River Project group about you spread the memberships evenly number and vastly increased the hours working together look really positive over the year (which of that you have provided to our partner and productive. The staff with these course they aren’t) Deb organisations. The partners we are organisations is critical to the success processed over 1500 working with continue to expand. We of the partnerships. Thankyou to all memberships each now work with the usuals — Parks the Rangers, and other staff who have month. Given that there and Wildlife Service and Tasmanian seen the light and seen the benefit of were 50 working bee Heritage Office (both part of TPHA), working with WILDCARE members. notices sent out last Resource Management and I would particularly like to thank year, this means that Conservation Division and Nature Chris Leitch, the Community Deb also prepared, Conservation Branch (both of Engagement Facilitator, who provides packaged and mailed a DPIWE) and have added Food enormous support and assistance to working bee notice Agriculture and Fisheries Division staff and volunteers wishing to work every week. On top of that, Deb (part of DPIWE) working with co-operatively through the answered many of the e-mails that volunteers registered with our new WILDCARE/government partnership. came into the WILDCARE Inc office. Fishcare Branch, Forestry Tasmania In December last year, the end of the A fantastic effort, without which this (in relation to Adopt-a-Track), while membership year we had 3500 organisation would not operate. management plan recommendations members, around 1 in 115 Thankfully Lyn Jackson has now started as our second WILDCARE for partnerships with Wellington Tasmanians. Fantastic growth! And I Office volunteer, so thankyou Lyn for Ranges Trust (for Adopt-a-Track), and have to mention Deb Ramm who for a WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 5 July 2003 getting involved in this way. In the December 2002 WILDTIMES Kent Group CARes newsletter we outlined the statistics for the number of hours of volunteer celebration gathering work provided by our members. Take Friends of the Kent Group interested in becoming involved a look at them next time you are National Park (CARes) is having with the Friends group are browsing through past issues. It a gathering to celebrate this invited. amounts to an astounding 15 million unique place. We invite The event will be held on the dollars value of volunteer time WILDCARE members to bring towards natural and cultural heritage weekend of 23Ð24 August, 2003. any stories, historical items, The venue is Darlington on conservation and reserve videos, photos, drawings, Maria Island. management. The biggest thankyou scrapbooks or any other art to the and the loudest accolades have got to event. We will also be spending go to you the volunteers. What a Contact: Christian Bell, President, part of weekend to engage in Friends of the Kent Group National supreme effort. This is what makes some project planning but only Park. Ph. 0427 872 670. Email: working with WILDCARE Inc such a in the most organic and convivial Annual General Meeting Outcomes ¥ Richard Hammond — Vice Chairperson ¥Jo Field — Treasurer 5. Moved by Jim Buchanan, The Annual General Meeting was Statements were presented by the seconded by Brian McGuire that held in conjunction with the Treasurer and accepted by the “Membership fees as from the WILDCARE Annual Conference, at membership. (Copy of the 2004 membership year be Narawntapu National Park on the financial statements and auditors 22nd March 2003. Fifty-five report included in this issue). increased to $25”. Motion carried unanimously. (Note — The new members attended both the AGM 3. The following office bearer and the Conference. positions were declared vacant for membership fee will be applicable 1. The Chairperson presented his election — Vice Chairperson and from 1st September 2003. The annual report (copy included in Treasurer. member discount on Annual Park this issue). 4. The following members were Passes offered by the Parks & 2. The Auditors Report and Financial elected unopposed: Wildlife Service remains at $20.) WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 7 July 2003 Nervy newbies When Jenny approached me with obvious enthusiasm and delight in the fun a POETS WILDCARE member can have in contributing to the ongoing development that makes this volunteer organisation as great as it is, I asked if she would be BREAKFAST interested in expressing her thoughts to let other members, who haven’t yet attended a Conference, know what a great experience it is… EAGLEHAWK CAFÉ If you are interested in With an air of slight trepidation, my share ideas, or simply sit and listen. Creative Writing and Poetry, partner, his daughter and myself set As a result, we found out how to come and join in on this infor- off to our very first WILDCARE become more involved with mal group meeting at the activity — the Open Space WILDCARE and its activities, as well Eaglehawk Café, 5131 Arthur Conference and AGM, at Bakers as listening to other members’ ideas Highway, Eaglehawk Neck. Beach in March 2003. We didn’t and involvement in the various know a soul and to start with felt a projects offered through WILDCARE. Phone 03 6250 3331 or email: bit conspicuous, but as the forum And to top it off, the ‘Elders’ of the eaglehawk.café@tassie.net.au began and people commenced WILDCARE Board of Management Bring your own speaking, our nerves left us and we turned on an excellent BBQ with writings/poetry along. began to feel more comfortable. We cheeses and bickies to boot! WILDCARE members are did not know what to expect from We found this, our first WILDCARE the day and went with open minds. entitled to 10% discount* off activity, to be not only informative but all meals valued over $20.00. We found that the other members of very enjoyable as well. We suggest to (*alcohol not included.) WILDCARE attending the forum to be all those members who may be unsure lovely people and they all made us about ‘joining in’ to simply DO IT! Fill welcome and comfortable. As the day in your preferred activity on the back of drew on, our brains started ‘ticking’ the WILDCARE registration form and The Conference is an annual event and is and thoughts began to flow, as we forward it to the WILDCARE Office, open to all current members — so why not discovered that the amount of input and simply wait for a call up notice take the opportunity in participating in you had on the day was totally up to relating to that activity — it’s as simple next year’s Open Space Conference? I’m you. The Open Space concept allows as that! We’ll be back! sure Jenny and her family will be there members to both participate in the Jenny, Steven and Tara again! topics suggested (by members) and (Seasoned)WILDCARE members! Editor 8 Have you visited Tamar Island Wetlands? Tamar Island Wetlands is a conservation area, 15 minutes drive from the centre of Launceston along the West Tamar Highway. There is a 1.3 km board walk (wheelchair access), that leads visitors over the wetlands to Tamar Island. At the entrance to the wetlands is the award winning Interpretation Centre, which is staffed by WILDCARE volunteers. The volunteers are part of the Tamar Island Wetlands Volunteer CARes group who staff the Centre 7 days a week, offering information to local, interstate and overseas visitors about the wetlands and other sites around Tasmania. The volunteers have don’t forget to take the time to speak So, next time you are in the area, drop visits from schools and community with the dedicated volunteers. into the Centre, collect one of the new groups for whom educational and Julie Nermut brochures and take a great walk across activity sessions are provided. Representative for the the wetlands, river channels and Because of the increasing numbers of Tamar Island Wetlands Volunteer visitors finding their way to Tamar finally to the Island, which has picnic CARes group Island Wetlands, the volunteers facilities to add to a delightful day out. decided there was a need for a There are lots to see such as historic Members wishing to volunteer at Tamar professional and exciting relics, an abundance of bird life, Island Wetlands can register their interest snakes, frogs and endangered species by contacting the WILDCARE Office and interpretation brochure. Thanks to amending their members’ records to such as the green and gold frog, the WILDCARE, the CARes group’s include “Tamar Island” as a preferred funding application was approved and glossy grass skink (recently Reserve. Members can also contact the we now have a brochure to enhance discovered) and many wetland plant Centre on 6327.3964 and speak with Julie visitors’ experience(s). species (2 endangered, 1 rare). And or the other volunteers. Congratulations! 1ST Prize $4,500 plus a 2 week Wilderness Nature Writing Award 2003 Residency in Tasmania WILDCARE is pleased to announce announced at the Writers and Nicholas Drayson, ACT “Strictly for the Birds” the winners of the inaugural Readers Festival on Sunday, 30th WILDCARE Tasmania Nature March 2003 at the Hunter Street Nicholas will also be running a writer’s workshop during his Writing Award 2003. Winners were Arts Centre. residency. Details will be posted on this site later. Runners Up $250 each Emily Stoddart, Tasmania. “The Sea Dragon Question” Caroline LeachÐPaholski, Victoria “Grass” One hundred and ten entries were received from across Australia and overseas. The above stories will be published in WILDTIMES in this and the next couple of issues, and in Island Magazine. Sponsors WILDCARE Inc; Hobart City Council. WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 9 July 2003 Strictly for the Birds outsized charm bracelets to bring them the luck of a new species. They talk to each other — places they’ve They follow you. No matter which And how puzzled the same sailors been, birds they’ve seen, even people way you turn or how fast you go, must have been to see such variety in they’ve met — but they never look at they follow you. Day and night, in size and colour in the birds they knew each other. Their eyes are always fair weather, rain or storm, they are as mollymawks until the focussed on the horizon, looking out with you. Sometimes they are so ornithologists told them that there are for the next one, another species for close that you could see the whites of in fact several mollymawks, different the list. their eyes — if they had whites to species in the genus Diomedea which And after a few days even I begin to their eyes. Sometimes they are no includes the enormous Wandering and spot some of the differences. I start more than distant specks on the far Royal Albatrosses, the slightly smaller with the easiest — the black and white horizon, but still you know they are Yellow-nosed, Grey-headed, and Shy Cape Petrel, common now and often following you. Why they follow you Albatrosses and half a dozen other no one knows. Perhaps for food, species besides. And the colour of the flying close to the ship. Its old name perhaps for company. Perhaps just plumage depends on how old they are. “pintado” means painted in Spanish for curiosity. Because there’s nothing Yes, scientific and their associated and its scientific name is Daption much else out there. Just you, the “recommended common names” have capensis. Daption is an anagram of endless ocean, and the birds; the their place, even if they have taken a pintado — I like that. Then there are birds, always following you. little of the romance from the those bigger dark-coloured birds with long and slender wings. “White- Heading south from Mauritius on the language. chinned petrels” says Phil. I look for a long voyage to Australia you don’t see For many people on the ship, these sign of white chin but perhaps I didn’t many birds at first. As the island birds are why they are here. Another pay enough for my binoculars. shrinks away into the now dodo-free species, another click of the camera, distance a few terns may follow you another tick on the list. “No,” Phil assures me, “you can usually only really see it in the hand.” out; if you’re lucky you might spot a “How many now Phil?” snow-white tropic bird (What colour In the hand. That means you have to “This trip, twenty-two.” is its tail plume? Red? Ah, it must be a hold one of the birds, to examine it Red-tailed Tropic Bird). But the flying “No, altogether.” closely. The great Swedish taxonomist fish keep you amused, leaping ahead “Oh, world list you mean. One Linnaeus who named the species in of the ship with horizontal fins, thousand six hundred and sixty one 1758 would only have seen a dead gliding, hitting a wave and with a blur last time I counted.” No hesitation. specimen, a skin. Perhaps he didn’t of tail leaping again from the water. “Four more now, though.” Big grin. notice the white chin either; he called The little ones, baby fish the size of They stand up on the top deck with it Procellaria aequinoctialis — dragonflies, are the prettiest. If you binoculars in hand and cameras and “Storm-bird from the equatorial stand long enough on the bows you lenses dangling round their necks like regions”. It was Linnaeus who named might even see a phalanx of strange arrow-shaped creatures leap as one from the waves. Flying squid (did you know that some squid fly?). You see WILDCARE clothing and head gear dolphins too, little Spinner Dolphins jumping in and out of the bow-wave in The WILDCARE Office has simple delight at their ability to do so. available for purchase an ORDER FORM There’ll be a few days when you don’t exciting new range of clothing see much. The seas get rougher, the air and head gear. Limited stocks. Polo shirt (unisex) $38.50 gets colder. But then you go out on Prices quoted include GST. SMLXLXXL deck one day and there they are. The ¥ Polo shirts are medium ocean wanderers have arrived. weight short-sleeved. Colour Polar fleece vest $38.50 The old sailors had names for them all is bottle green (fleck) with SMLXLXXL — shoemakers, nellies, mollymawks, green coloured WILDCARE cape pigeons and cape hens. The Inc. woven into a black Cap $13.20 Beanie $13.20 modern birdwatcher prefers to attach collar. Unisex sizes. Name: ...... “recommended common names” — ¥Polar fleece vests are dark Cape Petrel, White-chinned Petrel, Address: ...... green with dark blue Giant Petrel, Wandering Albatross...... shoulder panels, fully lined And fair enough; who knows how ...... inside. many belaying pins were broken Ph: ...... across how many sailors’ skulls in ¥Caps are dark green baseball arguments over whether that dark style with the WILDCARE Email: ...... grey-brown bird with narrow wings logo. One size fits all. To order please enclose this form with was a cape hen or a shoemaker before ¥ Beanies are polar fleece and payment and forward to WILDCARE the warring parties were convinced mid-green in colour with the Promotional Wear, WILDCARE Inc, that these are different names for the WILDCARE logo. One size c/o GPO Box 44, Hobart Tas 7001. same bird — the White-chinned Petrel fits all. Procellaria aequinoctialis. 10 tell from other species. The are, every one of them. Their ease, WILDTIMES albatrosses, sometimes two or three their nonchalance, their insouciance in now, tend to stay way back from the the face of endless horizons and 2003 Newsletter ship. Giant Petrels come closer — featureless oceans tells you that at any Schedule for Mother Carey’s geese. They are big moment any one of them could just birds too but with no white on them. head straight for home — wherever submission of Sometimes they glide close by the home might be. They have no paths to articles ship and at the same speed, so that follow, no landmarks to show the way, they seem suspended in the air. there may be no sun or moon or stars September issue No 19 — But size isn’t everything. Small black to see for weeks at a time. But those birds know where they are as surely as Deadline for articles to Editor 22 birds that seem no bigger than old Descartes knew “I think, therefore Aug 2003 swallows, what are they doing out here hundreds of miles from I am”. December issue No 20 — anywhere? See that flash of white on Another thing I wonder is, how many Deadline for articles to Editor 14 the rump and under the wing? senses do animals have? We tend to Nov 2003 Wilson’s Storm-petrels. I think back think of our human senses as five — ¥Articles can be emailed to to my childhood and the illustrated sight, smell, taste, hearing and touch. — about 30,000 of them. when they breed, how long they stay You might think that the birdoes Don’t take my word for it, talk to Jean- on their eggs, how far they go to find would be dancing with delight at the Pierre. Yes, he’s French, and food and how much they eat. The sight of all these majestic King Possession Island — or Prise de scientists on the island mark Penguins, but no. The true birdo is Possession to give it it’s proper name individual penguins with transponders unimpressed (Kings? They’re all over — is French too. It was named by the — like the ones you can get slipped the place, mate — South America, the explorer Marc-Joseph Marion under the skin of your pet dog or cat to Falklands, South Georgia, Macquarie Dufresne on the 21st January 1772. He identify it if it gets lost. When the Island. You mean you’ve never seen named the group of islands the Iles penguins come ashore they are one before?) What the true birdo has Crozet after his second-in-command funnelled by low fences through a come here to see is Chionis minor and the island on which he ran up the gateway where an automatic scale crozettensis, the Crozet sheathbill. flag he called Prise de Possession. As weighs them, a camera takes their Greek-speaking readers who have soon as word got around about the picture and an electronic sensor reads never seen sheathbills will Crozets, ships from all nations the number on the transponder. I’m immediately guess that they are white converged on the place. This was long sure this is all very interesting stuff, birds — chios being the Greek for before the days when kerosene could and I am trying to look very interested snow. Greek-speaking readers who be simply made from petroleum oil. — but it isn’t why I came here. have seen sheathbills might think up another name for them — What people used to fuel their lamps Jean-Pierre is talking to someone else. I Coprophagos minor perhaps. For the was seal oil and whale oil — penguin drift away, back to the shore. There are birds are indeed little shit-eaters. A bit oil at a pinch. Within a few years the regulations about people and animals in bigger than pigeons, with white seals and penguins which had been many parts of the Antarctic and the sub- plumage and a horny sheath at the top living there were pretty much wiped Antarctic. People should keep five of the beak, they wander round the out. Now, thanks to kerosene and Mr metres away from the animals. The penguin colony on unwebbed feet like Edison’s electric light bulb the demand regulations fail to say how far animals little white chooks, pecking at this and for animal oil from the Southern should keep from people. There is pecking at that. During the breeding Ocean is not what it was and many absolutely no chance of keeping five season they eat penguin eggs, dead species are recovering. So Jean-Pierre metres from the penguins. If I move the chicks, the placentas of seals that have assures me and with the evidence of penguins waddle a few steps away, if I just given birth. The rest of the time this many penguins before my eyes I stay still they seem not to notice me and am not about to contradict him. they seem to exist on whatever scraps crowd around again. And the have passed undigested through the Jean-Pierre tells me a lot more about sheathbills — they don’t ignore me, alimentary systems of penguins. As the penguins — les manchots — about they investigate me. soon as a penguin defecates, a sheathbill will be inspecting the offering. Not much of a life, you 5 easy ways to contact might think, but the birds are quite attractive in their own way. They’re WILDCARE Inc… not at all shy — stay still long enough and you might find one pecking away WILDCARE Inc now has 5 new email addresses for members and at your bootlaces. Leave your bag departmental staff to direct enquires or forward information. around and you’ll come back to find it being given a thorough investigation AAT News… contacted to discuss the best way to manage this section. At the first meeting concerns were raised mainly Management of the Old because of the historical tramway Hartz Track (Kermandie formations on the track and the Track) damage to the environment around it. Arthur Geeves and his family, under a As an uncertainty arose to the section government contract, constructed the of track affected, it was decided to Hartz Track (which runs from walk up onto the track just above the Geeveston to the Hartz Mountains) in Kermandie Falls to have a look at the the 1890’s. The track was 4-ft (1.3 m) area. Dudley Geeves was able to fill us wide with benched sides and provided in on some points of interest along the way notable a stack of timber still access to the southwest for Meeting between Forestry and prospecting and exploration as well as community members. Photo L Jackson. lying where it had been split. At one recreation and tourism to the Hartz stage, the road to the Hartz Mountains Mountains. The track has always been bodies of Arthur and Sydney were was to follow this track but was an important part of history to the carried out along the track. eventually constructed in 1960 where area, mainly due to the timber When Forestry announced a proposal it is today. Kay Geeves explained the harvesting on the lower sections and to harvest an area that crossed over the intensive displays of climbing heath associated with the forest that can be the Geeves tragedy in 1897 when the track, local community members were seen on different sections during early autumn. I feel everyone benefited from that walk on the track, as other Farewell to Deb! alternatives could be seen and Over the last 2 years on a weekly has now secured a full time paying discussed. basis, WILDCARE’s member position and as such will not be able As a result of this meeting, Forestry database has been diligently kept to devote the time required each week put 3 options up for consideration. up-to-date by a very dedicated to undertake this massive and very After considerable thought and more volunteer — Deb Ramm. And as important role. Thanks Deb, for all inspections of the area we met again the membership grew, so did Deb’s and all agreed on the same option, your efforts — you’ll be sorely tasks — entering in new with some compromise on both sides. memberships and annual missed! Part of that compromise was Forestry renewals; forwarding out the But as they say, every dark cloud has Welcome package to new members reducing their harvest size so that the and working bee notices to all a silver lining, and the silver lining is most historic and aesthetically members; as well as coordinating Lyn Jackson who has stepped into significant portion of the track is volunteers to assist in the quarterly Deb’s vacated position. Welcome retained and protected. A lower ‘stuffing’ of WILDTIMES. aboard Lyn! We hope you enjoy the section, above the falls was agreed to Unfortunately for WILDCARE,Deb challenge as much as Deb did! be re-routed closer to the river and rejoining the old tramway section of WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 15 July 2003 the track further up putting the track, which will be published whole section in protected in their Forest Practice News forest. The harvested area will along with an article and be re-seeded as native forest and photos of the management of opportunities for maintenance the track. to be carried out on other sections of the track. Forestry Over the last two years, Parks has continued to inform the & Wildlife staff along with community members of any some keen volunteers have progress-in-works and hopes for completed some intensive minimal interruptions to the track clearing and constructed track. The new section of track new bridges on the top section was thoughtfully marked out of the track to enable safe and inspected before being cut crossings of the creeks, out and constructed. Inspections leaving the remains of the old of other sections requiring work bridges for historical reasons. have also been carried out. Hopefully the two land Forestry Tasmania Huon managers — Forestry and District’s Senior Forest Planner Parks — with the support of — Kerri Spicer — and Forestry Tasmania Community Liaison the community and volunteers — Peter Pepper — have done can continue the maintenance some intensive research on the of this historical track. Lyn Jackson Options for reroute on track. Adopt-a-Track Caretaker, Source: Forestry Tasmania. Kermandie Track Hut Wardens — Waterfall Valley comes no mat, no sleeping bag, no warm clothes, insufficient food, and February 2003 then, boots falling apart, and sprains and blisters. When we decided to volunteer as Very soon it became obvious, of the The rewards come from being able to track wardens on the overland value of having experienced walkers generally overcome these mishaps, track at either Waterfall Valley or as wardens at this, the first stop, for either by our own efforts, or by the Pelion Huts, we had an idea the those tackling six days of walking the generosity and help offered by the experience would be an interesting overland track. While most were well experienced and well equipped one, but had no anticipation of how equipped and experienced, many were walkers sharing the huts and rewarding the stay would be. first time walkers, with equipment that campsite. First thing we had to do was book in was either borrowed, or maybe Mainland and overseas visitors joined for a St Johns Ambulance First Aid purchased new but not tried on, or us each night as we went Wombat Course, (this Certificate is a tested prior to setting out on their 6+ watching at around 6.30pm until dark, requirement for the job) and then day Overland trek. Backpacks were work out how two weeks food was the number 1 issue (i.e. overloaded, cameras and videos at the ready, most going to fit in 2 x 20 litre rafting incorrectly packed, wrongly adjusted had never seen one before, mother and drums, to be left at Cradle Ranger or even parts missing like straps & baby Wombat appeared from the Base. Eddie Firth then arranged a buckles). Stoves tended to be another burrow and among the oohs and aahs helicopter drop of all volunteers’ food trap for the inexperienced with the visitors happily watched them packs into Waterfall Valley Hut, ready incorrect fuel, mismatching fittings, or grazing in the long grass two male for participants on arrival. Parking the didn’t know how they worked. Then Wombats also came around on the odd car at Cradle, we collected name tags, Parks staff loading at Waterfall Valley heli pad. Photo I & J Fitzallen. key and two-way radio and hitched a ride with Bob Hamilton to Dove Lake to begin the walk into Waterfall Valley. Upon arrival at the Waterfall Valley hut we were met by Bill Forsyth packed and ready to leave, having completed one of his many stints at Waterfall Valley. After a brief run down on duties, jobs to be done and operation of equipment, Bill headed out, planning to spend the night at Scott Kilvert Hut. 16 performed the same duties in these huts as at Waterfall Valley and cleaned the windows. Both walks were varied Specialists in Adventure Equipment and interesting. The one to Packs, Tents, Boots, Windermere was fairly easy going with spectacular scenery and a Clothing, Sleeping Bags, beautiful lake about 5 minutes away from the hut, where it was quite safe Climbing Gear, Stoves, to have a swim etc. The walk to Scott Maps, Foods, Cookware, Kilvert was different with quite a steep descent down to it and through Torches, Compasses, some beautiful forest area. The walk Kayaks & Accessories. back was extremely good for the calf muscles. We spent some time in the Expert Advice. surrounds of both huts and had had a very pleasant day at each, got back to 104 Elizabeth Street, Hobart Waterfall to greet the first of the weary travellers. We also got in touch by radio every day with the Rangers at Ph 03 6234 7877 Cradle Base for a weather report, and Mail order welcome. at times to report on any walkers that Phone for catalogue. may be returning to Cradle because of injuries sustained. On another occasion we had the Prepare yourself for adventure helicopter come in. The pilot had 10% discount* to WILDCARE members dropped Eddie and Bob and an (Just quote membership number when making a purchase.) *Does not apply to Kayaks, Chaco sandals and scouting. Aboriginal Environmental Officer down near the Waterfalls to do some track work. They came into camp to occasion but the mother quickly sent have morning tea with us and a chat, Tyenna Valley Lodge them on their way. There was also the which gave us some idea of the kind family of beautiful Bennett Wallabies, of work these lads do. Junee Rd, Maydena and sometimes there was the odd whip It is quite amazing how much we learnt snake crossing our path. within the time we spent there. We met Most of the people we spoke to were some great people from all walks of life open and friendly and were most and had time to look around the area. interested in what sort of role we We even picked a perfect day to climb played at Waterfall, how we got the Barn Bluff. job, and what duties were involved. We explained that we were there in a We had extremely good weather for voluntary capacity and our main aim our 2 weeks at Waterfall, but on the was to help anyone who may need our last day it started to rain and by the • Peaceful, self contained assistance i.e. first aid, weather report time we were ready to leave to head accommodation for the day. We in turn got to ask them back to the Car Park to wait for Bob to •Tyenna River frontage about the countries they came from, collect us it was absolutely pouring. •Walking distance to differing weather conditions to what By the time we got to Marions Junee Cave Reserve they were experiencing here, their Lookout it had become quite cold with • Between Mt Field & animal life etc, a real education, many sleet coming down, we decided not to South-West National Parks said that given the chance they’d be go down Marions but went down the • Ideal for families and back again. steep track on the other side towards groups. We had a lot of positive feedback from Dove Lake car park, that was an • Lovely log fires and com- people saying how great it was to have experience in itself especially with our fortable beds people to welcome them on their packs on, very slippery. Once at the • Delicious on-site meals at arrival, the cleanliness of the huts and car park we looked up towards Cockatoo Café the toilets. Marions and saw the outline of several people going over the top towards Phone: 03 6288 2293 Once we saw everyone off for the day Cradle it was quite a sight and so glad Fax: 03 6288 2166 we did our chores and the rest of the day was ours, but on the odd occasion we weren’t up there. Email: [email protected] the early birds arrived. Read quite a All in all a wonderful experience and URL: www.tvlodge.com few books that had been left behind by one which we are definitely going to some of the previous Wardens and repeat. 10% Discount to some by PWS. We went over to Ian & Joan Fitzallen WILDCARE Members Windermere and Scott Kilvert huts to Hut Wardens — Waterfall Valley make sure everything was OK and WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 17 July 2003 Mt Roland CARes group update ecologically sustainable recreation in the Mt Roland Regional Reserve. A grant from the Kentish Council Visitors to O’Neills Creek Picnic Regional Reserve car park. enabled the construction of the trail. Reserve and the walking tracks The brochure describes and depicts by For more information about this within Mt Roland Regional Reserve hand drawings, various ecological organisation or the O’Neills Creek which is accessed from Gowrie features along the trail including plant Picnic Reserve and Nature Trail Park, 15 km southwest from and animal species found within this Sheffield, can now enjoy the contact Outlook Mt Roland, PO Box lowland, wet sclerophyll forest. The recently constructed O’Neills 254, Sheffield Tas 7306. Phone 03 trail is an easy grade and suitable for Nature Trail with the aid of a new 6491 2213 or 6491 1317. walkers of all ages and levels of brochure. The brochure guides and fitness. Anne Heyes instructs walkers through 16 Mt Roland CARes member numbered stops along the 700m The brochure and nature trail are the trail that follows O’Neills Creek initiatives of Outlook Mt Roland (Mt For more information on O’Neills Creek from the Picnic Reserve to O’Neills Roland CARes group), which is a nature trail is in the WILDTIMES #17 Creek Road opposite the Mt Roland volunteer group promoting (April 2003) issue. PWS District Volunteer Facilitators ¥A network of animal carers devotes many hours to the care and safe are here! housing of orphaned and injured West Coast wildlife. District Volunteer Facilitators are program at Birchs Inlet calls for ¥ Opportunities for extended periods now in every Parks & Wildlife volunteers to spend 2 weeks at a of volunteering during the summer District to help, encourage, time observing and reporting on the season at Lake St Clair National facilitate and coordinate volunteer birds. Park attract volunteers from within activities in National Parks and other Reserves. The Facilitator is a point of contact for anyone wishing to undertake volunteer work in these areas. In current and future WILDTIMES issues the District Facilitators will introduce themselves (profiles) to members. Profile — PWS Western For enquires and bookings District Phone (03) 6248-5390 A Trainee Admin Officer, yet to be appointed, along with PWS Ranger Fax (03) 6248-5117 Krissy Ward (who has an established track record working with volunteers Flights to Tasmania’s South West National Park Ð and volunteer groups on the West Coast) will be responsible for World Heritage Area. supporting WILDCARE members wishing to participate in volunteer Award winning Par Avion can take you to this activities in the Western District. A pristine and remote region allowing you the number of opportunities already exist opportunity to experience Tasmania’s inspiring for volunteering and members interested in becoming a part of these wilderness. programs can contact Krissy at the Strahan PWS office on 03 6471 7122. Tours range from half to full day World Heritage ¥The Orange-bellied Parrot recovery Flights to overnight camps as well as luxury cruis- Rehabilitation at Trial Harbour. es aboard MV Southern Explorer. 1995, 1996, 1997 Tourism Award Winners. 10% discount to WILDCARE members (Just quote membership number when making a booking.) 18 plant nursery in the Huon Valley, but I District Volunteer Facilitators availability & contact details have been still able to fit in the odd project work for PWS and some PWS District Facilitator Days available Contact freelance outdoor guiding and Western Krissy Ward (supported MonÐFri 6471 7122 instruction. The nursery work has by a full time trainee (Strahan) required a lot of work with admin officer, yet to be community conservation groups, appointed experience that I find invaluable in my new role as volunteer facilitator with Southern Craig Saunders MonÐFri 6264 8463 (Huonville) PWS. What spare time I have left I like to spend keeping up with two South Eastern Kristy Welch Fri 6214 8100 teenage children, visiting our many (Seven Mile Beach) natural areas (mainly seated in a sea North Western Tim Dyer Thur 6429 8723 kayak) and playing music in a (Ulverstone) community orchestra.” North Eastern Caroline Shemwell Tue & Wed 6256 7012 (Freycinet) Profile — PWS Northeast Northern Will be appointed by Four days a week 6336 5312 District the time this Issue goes — to be advised (Prospect); Caroline Shemwell is the Northeast to print! 6327 3964 District Volunteer Facilitator, based (Tamar Wetlands at Freycinet National Park. She has Centre) worked with animals for 23 years, starting as a Vet Nurse in a small practice on the Central Coast of and outside Tasmania. Community Hut Partnership NSW; at Eric Worrel’s Australian ¥ Local people and groups work with program, and trial the rehabilitation Reptile Park (a blast from the past for Rangers on the maintenance of of degraded sections of lakeshore. those who remember it) as a keeper remote huts as part of the ¥ Established community groups of native mammals as well as the involved in Coastcare, Landcare and sick, injured and orphaned. From conservation projects volunteer time there Caroline worked for Uni of and effort on reserve and crown NSW, Lucas Heights, Prince Henry land, protecting Aboriginal sites, and Price of Wales Hospitals, as well rationalising 4 wheel drive tracks, as driving the Animal Ambulance for tackling weed infestations and North Side Emergency Services. rehabilitating dunes. Caroline also spent 12 years at The District supports community Taronga Zoo in Special Operations involvement and may be able to assist and as a Senior Specialist Keeper of you or your group in volunteer various Taxa where duties covered projects in Reserves. Make contact captive husbandry, artificial rearing, with Krissy to discuss alternative behavioural enrichment and volunteer opportunities. conditioning to name a few as well as training staff and volunteers. She has Profile — PWS Southern spent time both in Thailand and Cambodia working with these District countries’ Government Departments Craig Saunders is the Southern developing rehab ad release centres District Volunteer Facilitator. The as well as public education centres. Southern District is the result of the In Cambodia Caroline was an adviser merger of Central South (e.g. Mt Field to the Wildlife Protection Office and NP) and Southern (e.g. Dover) assisted in the writing of wildlife districts. laws and other working legislation on Craig says he’s “been working on the law enforcement. I also trained staff periphery of the Parks and Wildlife and volunteers in this capacity as Service for around 20 years. well. Throughout the 80s I worked as an Caroline has an understanding of adventure travel guide leading voluntarism, having been a volunteer bushwalking, rafting and cycling tours for a variety of organisations into Tassie’s wild places. From 1986 I including Wild Animal Rescue also did casual track work for PWS, Foundation of Thailand (WAR), Surf mainly in the Southwest. I spent the Life Saving Association at Shelley 1990/91 summer as track ranger in the Beach in NSW, Lions, Lionesses, Walls of Jerusalem, perhaps my Lions Ladies and was a founding favourite Parks job. Since 1991 my member of Killarney Bateau Leo partner and I have run a small native Club. WILDTIMES July 2003 WILDTIMES 19 July 2003 Fishcare News… Northwest FCV News Yes, the rumours are true, Damian Important — Fishcare the Department of Primary Industries, Heran is moving back to his home Volunteer office hours Water and Environment offices at town to take over the reigns of the Prospect, Launceston and is available FCV Northwest region. Damian is Please note FCV offices in Hobart, Monday through to Wednesday based in the Cradle Coast Authority Prospect and Burnie are only open at midday for you to phone or speak to in Offices in Burnie and is available the following times. If Fishcare person. He is also available on his Monday through to Wednesday midday for you to phone or speak to in Volunteers need to pick up resources, mobile after hours on 0407 502 046. person. He is also available on his Senior support volunteer, Mark please do so during these times. mobile after hours on 0408 337 317. Williams, will continue assisting with Mondays and Tuesdays 9 amÐ5 pm Senior support volunteer, Mark coordination in the region and has a Heran, will continue assisting with Wednesdays 9 amÐ12 pm place on the WILDCARE Inc Board coordination in the Region, and has a of Management, representing the place on the WILDCARE Inc Board Fishcare/WILDCARE volunteers in of Management representing the the northern region. Fishcare/WILDCARE volunteers in the northwest region. Contact details: DPIWE Prospect Office, 165Ð167 Westbury Road, Launceston, PO Damian’s contact details: 30 Marine Box 46, Kings Meadows TAS 7249. Ph: 03 Terrace Burnie, PO Box 338 Burnie 7320. 6336 5474. Fax: 03 6336 5311. Email: Phone: 03 6431 6285. Fax: 03 6431 7014. Fishcare Volunteer Coordinators at the Fishcare Pool. GREAT NEWS Southern FCV News for Carers of The coordinator for this region is Andrew Sharman. Andrew is based Orphaned/Injured on the 9th floor in the Department of Primary Industries, Water & Environment offices in the Marine Animals board building in Hobart and is available Monday through to Cartledge Agency has been appointed a Wednesday midday for you to phone Wombaroo/Passwell distributor. or speak to in person. This means ALL WILDCARE MEMBERS CAN NOW This region also welcomes a new GET AN 8% DISCOUNT off any product (except of senior support volunteer, Mike Seeds and Mixes for Birdlife) contained in our new Cawthorn, who will support Andrew revised catalogue. in his role. Mike has a place on the WILDCARE members are also entitled to: WILDCARE Inc Board of ¥Free catalogue mail out Management, representing the ¥ Product data sheets for most products Fishcare/WILDCARE volunteers in ¥ On-going promotions (discount included) the southern region. ¥ Buy $35 of Wombaroo/Passwell products and The FCV library is still located in the receive FREE PRODUCTS to the value of $7. Hobart office. Please contact Andrew ¥ Buy $55 of Wombaroo/Passwell products and and make a time to come in and receive FREE PRODUCTS to the value of $12. browse, or contact your regional Orders can be delivered statewide for a delivery fee of $5 per carton coordinator and they can organise for up to 30kg, with next day delivery to most metropolitan areas. books to be transferred to your Cartledge Agency would like to thank all WILDCARE members for regional office. their past support and look forward to future dealings. Andrew’s contact details: DPIWE Offices, To request a catalogue or place orders contact: 9th Floor Marine Board Building, 1 Mark Cartledge at Cartledge Agency, Franklin Wharf, Hobart, GPO Box 44, Hobart 7001. Phone: 03 6233 3053. Fax: 26/34 Innocent Street, Kings Meadows Tas 7249. 03 6223 1539. WILDLIFE PRODUCT DISCOUNT BUT WE CAN SURE HELP YOU TO LOOK AFTER THEM! Quenton Higgs. Quenton is based in 20 Thankyou! WILDCARE wishes to thank the following sponsors for their support of the WILDCARE Fund Gold Sponsors ($10,000 plus) Category 2 sponsors ($5000–$9999) Resource Management & Conservation Category 3 sponsors ($1000–$4999) Malcolm Murchison And the following WILDCARE member-discount sponsors Parks and Wildlife Service Ð $20 discount on Annual Park Pass Snowgum equipment Ð 10% discount Par Avion Wilderness Flights Ð 10% discount Eaglehawk Neck Backpackers Ð $2 discount per night Moonpads Ð 10% discount, Tyenna Valley Lodge Ð 10% discount The Possum Shed, Westerway Ð 10% discount on all gifts Eaglehawk Cafe Ð 10% discount (on meals over $20.00 excludes alcohol) Cartledge Agency Ð 8% discount(refer to advertisment) (To claim your discount, simply present your WILDCARE member card.) We are looking for other sponsors, both for the WILDCARE Fund and as discounters. Know someone who you think might be interested? Why not have a chat to them and suggest they contact Andrew Smith at Community Partnerships Section for more details (Ph 6233 2836 — GPO Box 44 Hobart 7001). Tasmanian Trail Guidebook Ð Tasmanian Trail This essential guide will give walkers, bicyclists and Fascinating snippets of information on the natural and horse riders all the information needed to travel all or cultural features you will discover along the trail are part of the unique Tasmanian Trail. liberally spread throughout the book. Detailed trail notes cover each stage of the journey, If you are contemplating a full traverse of the state or providing concise directions and information on just a day trip, this book is a must. access, campsites and facilities. Distances are given for Recommended Retail Price: $22.00. Order through the trips in either direction, while each stage is supple- WILDCARE Office, GPO Box 44 Hobart 7001. Please mented with detailed maps. make cheques payable to The Tasmanian Trail Association. Planning, safety and environmental issues are all thor- oughly covered. ISBN 9 318923 009651 Graphic Plus 1699 WILDTIMES July 2003