2010/1 Print Post App

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 2010/1 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

OFF’s Website:e: http://off.oatleypark.com Jan/Feb 2010

OPENING SPEECH AT COPENHAGEN LUCKY LADYBIRDS Ladybirds are natural controllers of Dr.Rajendra Pachauri, Chair, Intergovernmental aphids, scale insects and mites Panel on Climate Change [IPCC] stated in his which otherwise damage plants. If opening address, “The evidence is now your garden has regular ladybird overwhelming that the world would benefit greatly visitors, you can be sure it is from early action on climate change, and that delay receiving a helping hand to keep will only lead to costs in economic and human healthy. This is probably why terms that become progressively higher. IPCC has nearly all cultures believe that been able to provide substantial evidence through ladybirds are lucky. The nursery rhyme "Ladybird, its assessments that science provides us with a ladybird, fly away home" encourages children to catch basis for undertaking changes that this conference the beetles and blow them on their way to disperse must urgently initiate. [However], given the wide- them amongst the crops to destroy pests. ranging changes that are likely to be made, some will find it inconvenient to accept them.” www.fnpw.org.au/Backyard_Buddies/B-mail_November_09.html www.ipcc.ch/pdf/presentations/ FORESTS AND CLIMATE CHANGE One effective way to halt climate change is to ensure Fred Bell noted in a paper he wrote early in 2009 the conservation and protection of national parks is “Most scientific sceptics actually agree with IPCC extended to other natural areas, including intact native that the present warming trend is real, and has forests, rainforests, wilderness areas, wetlands and been occurring since 1970 or earlier, and that urban wildlife corridors. concentrations of CO2 and other greenhouse gases Recent research found that maintaining forests and in the atmosphere have continuously risen for at their soils is one of the most effective means of storing least 150 years. Both [factors] should now be carbon. Forests function as air coolers, rain catchers regarded as established facts.” and air filters that remove carbon monoxide and air RISING TEMPERATURES pollution. Destroying forests accelerates global The Climate Group reports that temperatures were warming because it leads to less rainfall and increased consistently above average in 2009, the second desertification. If we stop the clearing, logging and warmest year on record in Australia. New degradation of forests in Australia and around the maximum temperature records were set in world we would reduce global emissions by numerous cities early in the year, as well as in the approximately 25 per cent per year. unusual heatwaves in August and November. 1999 Dr Mary White, a palaeo- – 2009 was the warmest decade on record. The environmentalist, argues Bureau of Meteorology now believes that strongly that if Australian Australia’s decadal temperature profile has shifted politicians are serious from one influenced solely by natural variations, to about climate change the upward trend caused by anthropogenic factors. they would immediately Globally, 2009 was the fifth warmest year on halt the clearing of record. www.theclimategroup.org/ Australian forests. They would also ensure that THE OATLEY BOWLING CLUB SITE poorer nations are assisted to keep their forests. Serious vandalism at the site in December sparked This is taken from an article by Janine Kitson www.npansw.org.au, edited off another message to Hurstville Council. OFF here and endorsed by Alan Fairley. Alan also noted this admirable supports Friends of Oatley in asking the Council to conservation sentiment while in India and brought it back to share with us. undertake emergency steps to stabilise the building IMPACT ON WILD LIFE and make it available and useful to the local Rising temperatures and sea levels, bushfires and community while a decision on its future is awaited. other dramatic environmental events will have a considerable impact on our native wildlife and ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS ecosystems. www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/ Have you paid your annual subscriptions for 2010? SNOWY MOUNTAINS 2010 If not, please post your cheque to P.O. Box 52, Robin Dickson would like to know how many members might be interested Mortdale 2223, or pay Lesley Wylie at the AGM on in our annual trip to Smiggins Chalet for the week 13th to 20th February. 1st February. The subscription is still only $25 per [Costs are $99 double or twin share, $47 extra adult in room, $78 single, and $37 per child]. If you are thinking of going on this trip, please contact person or family (living at the same address). Robin at the next OFF meeting or 9580 5663. Donations are also welcome . Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall Fredrick St [cnr Letitia St] Oatley starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. Visitors and accompanied children are welcome to all meetings and excursions.

OFF News Jan/Feb 2010

COMING EVENTS st Feb 1 (Monday) 7.45pm Annual General Meeting with the election of officers and review of the work of the Society. If you are interested in nominating for committee membership, please contact Liz Cameron. The challenging position of Program Officer, for example, is available at this stage. If you have interesting photos please bring them for a “PowerPoint presentation”, [sorry no slides, must be digital photos on CD or memory stick!]. The meeting will close with a social supper – please bring a plate. Feb 22nd (Monday) 7.45pm Regular monthly meeting and Gary Dunnett, Regional Manager, Sydney NPWS speaking on “Port Hacking - Under Water Marine Life”. th Feb 27 Tree Planting Oatley West Public School. [See the note below]. Mar 2nd (Tuesday) Business Clean Up Day and Mar 5th (Friday) School Clean Up Day th Mar 6 (Saturday) Field Day migratory wading bird observation Kurnell. Leader Debbie Andrew [More details next OFF News] . Mar 7th (Sunday) Clean Up Australia Day –OFF members and friends will be working in the Poulton Park mangroves. Mar 22nd (Monday) 7.45pm Regular monthly meeting with Dr Peggy Eby speaking on Flying Foxes in Sydney. Mar 28th (Sunday) Field Day. Tour of the Glen Reserve and Burnam Burnam Sanctuary, Bonnet Bay. Leader: Jason Cockayne SUMMARY OF THE O.F.F. FINANCES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31.12.09 This report by Lesley Wylie, Hon. Treasurer, is now with the auditor.

Credit Balance as at $5,743.0 Colong Foundation, Birds Australia, WIRES, the 01.01.09 Environment Defenders Office, Kuringai Bats, and Receipts the Wilderness Society, while $300 was given to Subscriptions $4,025.00 Australian Bush Heritage. Donations $1,140.00 The Society’s funds at 31/12/09 stood at $15,167 including $802 to the President’s Fund for Sale - Plants $277.85 donations to other environmental bodies. Annual Dinner $1,600.00 Included in the Society’s funds is $1,500, 2010 Annual Dinner Raffle $208.00 subscriptions paid in advance from 37% of Possum Boxes - refund $200.00 members. Generous donations of $630 were Oatley West PS received in November for the President’s Fund. Cancelled Cheque to Birds $320.00 Thank you very much. Australia BRIEFLY Sundries $90.00 arbon accounting: The Wilderness Society notes Interest $17.10 Cth at Forestry Tasmania is planning to log, and find Total Receipts as at $7,877.95 out the true carbon value of Tasmania's forests in 31/12/09 Feb and March. www.wilderness.org.au/articles/ Balance $13,621.03 th Payments E coForum Feb 23rd - 24 Conference & Exhibition Department Fair Trading $45.00 Australian Technology Park, Sydney NSW Uniting Church $275.00 www.ecoforum.net.au/2010 [email protected] Printing/Postage $803.10 nternational Year of Biodiversity. The UN Australia Post Box Rental $75.00 I declared 2010 as the International Year of Printing Programs $225.50 Biodiversity. It is a celebration of life on earth and Hall Sound Equipment $264.83 of the value of biodiversity for our lives. The world Annual Dinner $1,525.00 is invited to take action in 2010 to safeguard the Insurance $749.52 variety of life on earth: biodiversity. NCC Membership $200.00 www.cbd.int/2010/ miggins Chalet: Our annual trip is for the week Donations (see Note) $1,800.00 th th Lions Oatley Festival Stall $90.00 S 13 to 20 February and some twenty members have already indicated that they will be there for School Book Prizes $37.90 some or all of the time. Please let Robin Dickson Printing Oatley Bowling $122.50 know urgently if you are able to join us. Club Flyers ree planting planned for Oatley West Public Birds Aust. Donation re- $320.00 T School. There are a considerable number of young issued from 2008 native plants for a planting in the area of the newly Sundries $360.15 exposed rocks at OWPS. The planned date is 27th Total payments $6,893.50 February. Members of the school community will be Credit Balance as at $6,727.53 there. They would be delighted to receive help from 31/12/2009 members of OFF. [More details in the next OFF News.] Add Cash Management $8,751.06 $15,478.59 Trust A/c Carbon Footprints Less balance of HCC Grant -$311.70 do seem to have Total Society Funds $15,166.89 been rather circular at Copenhagen! Note: Donations - $100 each went to Sydney Wildlife, Auburn Council Wildlife Reserve, and the Florentine Protection Society. $200 went to the OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 Hon. Editor: John Davoren mailto:[email protected];

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 2010/2 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

OFF’s Website:e: http://off.oatleypark.com Feb/Mar 2010

AT THE AGM - 1st FEBRUARY Blue Mountains. vi) Lobbying to keep the former Julian Sheen, the president of the Society began Oatley Bowling Club site for community use. his address with the comment that each year the OFF again awarded environmental book prizes at AGM serves to renew the Society, and that it has Oatley and Oatley West Public Schools and will offer a rarely been stronger in numbers and interest than complimentary OFF membership to the families of the at present. He spoke of the purpose of the Society successful students. and its objectives, on conservation that is not just a COMMITTEE ELECTIONS form of conservatism, a love of growing plants, or a The 2010 OFF Committee elected at the AGM will be view of humans as a scourge on the planet. He put listed in the program posted out next month. Julian, the case strongly that conservation aims at our re-elected as president, noted the essential role of the being a part of nature, a partner, striving to committee in the process of renewal, thanked the maintain and adjust to a dynamic equilibrium. outgoing committee and other members for their work Conservationists must work to maintain during the year and the new committee for their biodiversity, and he looked at some of the willingness to continue the work. implications of this in the International Year of THE NATIONAL PARK DEBATE OVER 20 YEARS Biodiversity. He called on the Society to celebrate In 1989 in response to some OFF News criticisms of the biodiversity of Australia, to rejoice in it, to N.S.W’s forest management policies on the far south appreciate the wondrous variety and diversity, and coast, the then Minister for Natural Resources wrote to feel a love for our natural places. He said that as strongly supporting the continued “harvesting” of love has the four aspects of knowledge, respect, forests. “Conservation embodies both preservation care and responsibility, so too has conservation: and utilisation, with the need for a balance between He concluded that we need to give renewed them”, he wrote. “Multiple-purpose management”, he thought to conservation’s implications. It may be declared, was the only way to proceed; protection of measured by the depth of our knowledge of nature, flora and fauna “complemented” by harvesting an and the monthly talks can be of help there, the equivalent area for timber. “To preserve all remaining extent of our respect for the bush, its diversity and natural areas in an undisturbed condition would mean its right to prosper; the depth of our care in less than optimal benefits." [Reported in OFF News- Feb 1990]. protecting the bush and what it signifies to us, and OVER TEN YEARS our acceptance of responsibility to maintain its In 2000, the government was to decide whether it diversity and continuity. should protect the forests forever, or leave them open Liz Cameron delivered the Secretary’s for logging for another 20 years. The forests, Report of which the following are excerpts. Our protective habitat for over 40 threatened species, membership is growing, and we now have 313 some 35 thousand hectares of old-growth forests, 5 members, (274 adults, and 39 children). Thank you wilderness areas, and vital water catchments were still Robin Dickson for looking after the membership so unprotected. [Reported in OFF News- Feb 2000] well. Melina Amerasinghe again produced an Now [Feb 2010], the government is assessing an excellent program of speakers for the monthly application by the owners of the Eden Chip mill to meetings, attended by an average of 55 members construct a native wood fired power station in the and visitors. Janet Austin’s field program offered area. www.woodchippingsux.net.au/ ten activities with plenty of variety, attracting an nd average of 20 people to each. The weekend on the SPEAKER AT THE FEBRUARY 22 MEETING South Coast was very successful and we hope to Gary Dunnett is Regional Manager Sydney with the run more such activities in the future. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of In 2009 OFF wrote to various authorities on a Environment, Climate Change and Water. He is number of conservation issues, namely:- responsible for the management of a group of 20 i) Opposing development of commercial tourism national parks, nature reserves, regional parks, and within national parks. ii) Urging NSW DECC to stop state conservation areas across Western Sydney. He issuing licences to shoot flying foxes. iii) Supporting began as an archaeologist with Tasmanian Parks and the Natural Resources Commission’s Wildlife, has worked in both State and Commonwealth recommendations on River Red Gum State conservation agencies in a variety of roles including Forests; especially the creation of new National research, environmental planning, and reserve Parks and Reserves. iv) Objecting to the Bulli management. A strong focus of his work has been on Seam Operations Project of longwall mining of the sustainable management of small urban reserves coal. v) Supporting the reservation of the Gardens with high natural and cultural heritage value. of Stone stage two proposal on the edge of the www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au/

Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall Fredrick St [cnr Letitia St] Oatley starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. Visitors and accompanied children are welcome to all meetings and excursions.

OFF News Feb/Mar 2010

Coming Events: nd Feb 22 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Gary Dunnett speaking on Shiprock Aquatic Reserve and Other Points Of Attachment, about the rocky outcrops in the Hacking River and Botany Bay. Mar 6th (Saturday) Field Day migratory wading bird observation Kurnell. Leader: Debbie Andrew. [See note below]. Mar 7th (Sunday) OFF members and friends will be working in the Poulton Park mangroves for Clean Up Australia Day [see the note below] Mar 22nd (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Dr Peggy Eby speaking on Flying Foxes in Sydney. th Mar 28 (Sunday) Field Day: Tour of the Glen Reserve and Burnam Burnam Sanctuary, Bonnet Bay. Leader: Jason Cockayne [Details next OFF News] th April 19 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Kris Spike –speaking on Population & Sustainability May 1st (Saturday) Field Day: Tour at Bulli – Illawarra Grevillea Park. Leader Heather Mackey nd May 2 (Sunday) Tree Planting Oatley West Public School. [See note below and advise friends receiving this by post].

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY - SUN 7th MARCH ABORIGINAL FIREFIGHTING For OFF this year’s site is at the bottom of Poulton A project in northern Australia has cut carbon Park from 8.30 am to 12 noon. Meet at the corner of dioxide emissions by an estimated 488,000 tonnes Morshead Drive and Kyle Parade near the entrance during its three years and generated 200 jobs by to Yara-Nura boardwalk (off the Great Kai’mia Way). helping avert wildfires. Under the scheme, Come along for as little or as long as you can spare. Aborigine rangers fight fire with fire - setting small Bring sturdy shoes, boots or gumboots blazes early in the dry season to create fire breaks (recommended), hat, gloves, water, and sunscreen. and a patchwork of burnt and unburnt savannah. A Scout Group will be putting on a “brunch” (bacon That helps avoid far more damaging wildfires and egg rolls + some sausages) 7.30 to around 12. when vegetation gets tinder dry at the height of the MIGRATORY WADING BIRD OBSERVATION dry season. www.abc.net.au/science/articles/ Debbie Andrew is leading the field Day on Sat 6th BRIEFLY March at Boat Harbour Kurnell. As the birds are best irds in Oatley Park: 145 species are recorded for observed 2 hours either side of the high tide, at 1:40 B the bushland of the Park, its tidal mud flats, pm on the day, meet at 11:00 am. Assemble at the mangroves and Lime Kiln wetlands. The full list is at corner of Captain Cook Dr and Sir Joseph Banks Dr http://off.oatleypark.com/ (where the Desal plant is) and then drive to the arth Hour 2010. Saturday 27th March 8:30pm – eastern end of Sir Joseph Banks Dr, park some cars E 9:30pm. All lights off for the hour. You might and proceed on the narrow road to Point Potter. It is light a candle in a safe and prominent spot to about then about a half hour walk to Boat harbour indicate that you are taking part. and Merries Reef rock platform to the south, rand Canyon Track in the Blue Mountains is closed moderately difficulty, largely level but with some until further notice. [Reported in Hut News Feb 2010] small rises and some uneven ground around the G rock platform and shore. Bring hats, shoes that can atley West Public School Tree Planting There are O a considerable number of young native plants for get wet, sun protection, binoculars, telescopes and a planting in the area of the newly exposed rocks at cameras and lunch and drinks. 2 telescopes will be OWPS. Originally set for 27th Feb, it is now to be on provided. It is possible to have a swim on the Bate nd Bay side of the rock platform. With 1-2 hours Sun May 2 . Members of the school community observing the birds, the whole would be delighted to receive help from OFF. [NB the excursion would be 3-4 hours. date change was not listed in OFF News posted 11 Feb.] Birds commonly seen there in oyal National Park: World Heritage The summer are the migratory wading R Sutherland Environmental Centre is campaigning birds e.g. Red-necked Stint, Ruddy to achieve a World Heritage Listing for the RNP. Turnstone, Golden Plover, The centre is looking for learned papers on the sometimes Mongolian Plover, Park’s special and unique features to submit to the UN. It is convening a special meeting at the Council Sanderlings ^ , Terns, Cormorants, Reef Heron, and th even Sooty Oystercatchers. images.google.com.au/i offices on 11 March. If you wish to contribute to WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE GROWTH? the discussion, you will be very welcome Prof Dexter Dunphy notes problems with this often- [email protected] www.ssec.org.au 9545 3077 used term. “The notion that the world in general and ustainable Energy without the Hot Air written by Australia in particular can continue on an economic S David J C McKay, [only available as a downloaded growth path is a form of insanity. We are already PDF file] is reviewed by Ross Coster in Hut News. He consuming resources at a rate well above the describes it as a brilliant explanation of global planet’s capacity to replace them; the world is being warming and sustainable energy. withouthotair.com/ devastated to meet the growing demands of its www.bluemountains.org.au/HutNews/ existing population.” www.environmentalmanagementnews.net/

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION Have you paid you OFF subscription for 2010? If not, please post your cheque to The Secretary, PO Box 52 Mortdale. Subs remain at $25 per person or family living at the same address.

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected]; Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 2010/3 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

OFF’s Website:e: http://off.oatleypark.com Mar/April 2010

OATLEY PARK - A LITTLE HISTORY KOALAS Oatley Park was dedicated for Public Recreation on Koala numbers are declining dramatically, and in the March 25th 1887 and proclaimed on May 29th 1888. far south coast particularly. The Australian Koala Under the Public Parks Act of 1884, Governor Baron Foundation wants the Carrington declared the land at Limekiln Bay, Koala listed as a Georges River to be a public park, then to be known threatened species. as 'Peakhurst Park'". West Oatley between Gungah Data from Mumbulla, a Bay Road and the Park had not yet been subdivided. threatened area, From Oatley Park Ave to Jew Fish Point (116 acres) suggests that koalas will was the Donnelly Fisher grant. The Gates now at the eat any species of western end of Mulga Rd is, apparently, where the eucalypt, and that it is gates of the Fisher property were located. North of nutrient content not tree Oatley Park Avenue was the John William Alexander species that is White grant, (81 acres), occupied by Myles McRae, important! Clearly, whole whose name is better known now in Penshurst. forests need protection, ACACIA PROMINENS – GOSFORD WATTLE but Forests NSW is to This is a rare plant in Oatley Park flowering in mid log a far south coast August. A few plants are on the out-road beside the forest, home of the last remaining koala population in oval in the Park (next to the region. www.chipstop.forests.org.au/ where that tower was to THE KIMBERLEY CAMPAIGN have been). It is listed in The Wilderness Society calls for support for the Threatened Species Kimberley campaign. The West Atlas oil spill off the Conservation Act as Kimberley coast ‘Threatened Population’ in brought into sharp the Hurstville / Kogarah focus the risks LGAs. The name associated with oil. It prominens refers to a calls for a clear prominent gland on the message to the State phyllode margin. [Note from Alan Fairley] and Commonwealth A BIRD IN THE HAND Governments that the Australian Geographic reports that Erin Stone, Kimberley is too experienced bird trainer, important to put at risk. Ph: (08) 9420 7255: rehabilitated this injured [email protected] secure.wilderness.org.au/cyberactivist/ peregrine falcon. “The falcon was quite nervous, so the first step I CLIMATE CHANGE? took was to build a relationship The World Meteorological Organization notes that with him. Gaining trust is the most 2000-2009 was the world’s warmest decade on important step in training any record, warmer than the 1990s, in turn warmer than animal. Then we started the lure the 1980s. In Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology training, a technique used for notes that each decade since the 1940s was warmer centuries, where the keeper than the preceding decade. The Earth has warmed swings a leather lure around with by around 0.74 °C from 1906 to 2005, a statistically food attached that the bird chases.” significant climatic change. www.climatechange.gov.au/ www.australiangeographic.com.au/journal/. HELP COPE WITH CLIMATE The head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION announced a $AUD112 billion fund to help countries mitigate the effects of climate change. He said at the Have you paid you OFF subscription for 2010? World Economic Forum. "Efforts to deal with climate If not, please post your cheque to change should not be blocked because we cannot meet financing needs.”environmentalmanagementnews.net/ The Secretary, PO Box 52 Mortdale. OUR ENVIRONMENT Subs remain at $25 per person or family living at the same In 2010, for the first time in history, a majority of the address. world’s population will be living in cities. In 1950, 30% of the world’s population was urbanised. By st Mar 31 is usually the cut off date 2050, 70% will to be. [David Hall reporting in Hut News] bluemountains.org.au/HutNews/1003news.pdf

Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall Fredrick St [cnr Letitia St] Oatley starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. . Visitors and are welcome to all meetings and excursions

OFF News Mar/April 2010

COMING EVENTS: nd Mar 22 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Dr Peggy Eby a biologist, for the last 20 years studying Grey-headed Flying Foxes, who will speak on Flying Foxes in Sydney, focussing on the biology, behaviour, and conservation of flying foxes, including Oatley’s Myles Dunphy Flying Fox camp.

Mar 28th (Sunday) Field Day: Tour of the Glen Reserve and Burnum Burnum Sanctuary, Bonnet Bay. Leader: Jason Cockayne. Meet at 9am at Lincoln Crescent Seat/Washington Drive, Bonnet Bay. Morning Tea will be at 10.30am at the Sanctuary, Tudar Road, Bonnet Bay. We continue through reserve for an hour, and then have lunch. It will be a fairly casual walk, and we may discuss plants along the walk, as the walkers would like. April 15th (Thursday) Field Day: Exploring the environs of Ultimo/Broadway Leader: Keith Robinson. The walk starts at cnr Broadway and Harris Sts at 9.30 am, and then moves on to visit various buildings and points of interest in the area, including The Peter Johnson building, the ABC building, TAFE catering college, Harris Community Centre, and the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre. It should finish about 2.30- 3 pm. April 19th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Kris Spike, a composer, pianist, and environmental campaigner, speaking on Population & Sustainability. st May 1 (Saturday) Field Day: Tour at Bulli – Illawarra Grevillea Park. Leader Heather Mackey

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY - SUN 7th MARCH SPEAKER AT THE FEB 22nd MEETING This year’s site for OFF was at the bottom of The 2010 program began in spectacular fashion Poulton Park, Morshead Drive, Connells Point. It with 60 enjoying Gary Dunnett’s talk and his was a successful day with many joining in, stunning photos of colourful underwater life at including groups of local Guides and Scouts. It was Shiprock Aquatic Reserve in Port Hacking. The also the site of a free breakfast BBQ organised by biodiversity in such a small area, close to Cronulla, Kogarah City Council for all volunteers that was extraordinary. Gary explained the adaptations participated in Kogarah’s Clean Up Australia Day. of the animals and algae that allow them to crowd This made it a very busy site. onto the sandy substrates and rocky cliffs of what is .SMIGGINS 2010: FEBRUARY 13-20 essentially a flooded sandstone valley, and how There were sixteen of us this year and we were so some of the land and water-based human activities pleased to have Win Tonkin amongst us. Steady can threaten the fauna and flora at Shiprock. rain in the first two days turned the alpine streams BRIEFLY into foaming cascades and the Snowy River iodiversity (International Year of) - Details of crossing below Charlotte’s Pass was briefly B what the world is doing throughout the Year can be inundated, but the weather soon cleared, and it was found at: http://www/cbd/int/2010/celebrations a delight to feel the cool mountain air after limate Change Conference – 18-21 April for those Sydney’s oppressive heat. C interested in the efforts of local communities in Above the tree line were drifts of white gentians adapting for and helping mitigate effects of climate and clusters of deep pink berries of Carpet Heath. change, at the Fairmont Resort, Leura. Registration is The rain brought out lots of wildlife including lizards, essential. www.localclimatechangeconference.com/ butterflies, and flame robins and Jan photographed a crayfish in one of the clear tarns. ooks River Wetland. Work begins soon on Various groups completed walks including the Cco nstructing a new wetland on the banks of the river at Heynes Reserve, Canterbury. [Mambara: - Ise 25] Dead Horse Track, Waterfall Walk, Porcupine th Rocks and ascent of Mt Townsend, and there were arth Hour 8pm Sat March 27 . You can sign up and car trips to Yarrangobilly Caves and Tom Groggin E support on http://www.earthhour.org.au/ and Khancoban. The cosy ‘fire’, challenging jigsaws atley Bowling Club Site is still under threat. and sharing of films and photos enhanced the OCo mmunity representatives cannot gain access to happy hours in the lounge. We do appreciate Robin review its potential as a temporary [or even Dickson’s organisation of this annual event. [Report by continuing!] community centre. Liz Cameron] equiem For A Species: Why We Resist The Truth BURNUM BURNUM SANCTUARY R About Climate Change: by Clive Hamilton. Most A haven of serenity and solitude, the sanctuary at eminent climate scientists agree that the world is Bonnet Bay offers a range of great bushwalk tracks now on a path to a catastrophe and it is too late to revealing stunning rock escarpments & formations. stop it. This book is about why the warnings were Keep an eye out for “Eagle Rock” the shape of the ignored. [Reviewed in Hut News] rock is much like the head of an eagle. You may http://www.bluemountains.org.au/ ] come across an array of wildlife, blue tongue lizards, black cockatoos, and tiny wrens. The sanctuary also offers lots of parking, picnic areas, playground, and a wetland area to explore. [See field day on Mar 28] OFF NEWS OF 40 YEARS AGO. March 1970 referred to oil drilling on the Great Barrier Reef, proposals for Sydney’s second airport to be at either Wattamolla or Duffys Forest, and plans to have Towra Point reserved as a Park. April 1970 reported on reactions to the continued industrial development of Kurnell Peninsula [in the year of the Cook Bi-centenary] and on the public meeting pushing for the “retention of the remainder of the Kurnell Peninsula”. OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected]; Hon. Editor: John Davoren This issue is being posted to all members with the 2010 Program

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 2010/4 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

OFF’s Website: http://off.oatleypark.com April/May 2010

GLOBAL WARMING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology, Australia’s “Contrary to popular belief, Australia is not a land of leading climate science agencies have published a largely untapped and underutilised resources. It is snapshot of the state of our one of the driest continents in the world with ancient climate. It shows highly soils leached of nutrients. Our native vegetation has variable rainfall across the grown a remarkable diversity to cope with these country, increases in the conditions but we ourselves have not yet learned north and centre, and how to live within the natural constraints of this decreases across much of continent and to develop a truly sustainable lifestyle”. south and east. From 1993 [Prof Dexter Dunphy] to 2009, sea levels rose by BIODIVERSITY: ECOLOGY AND ECONOMY 1.5cm to 3cm per decade in According to Urban Ecology Australia a more diverse the south and east, and ecosystem is better suited both to withstand 7cm to 9cm in the north. environmental stress and to support the economy by About half of the observed reduction in winter providing us with crops, livestock, fish, fruits and rainfall in south-west Western Australia is vegetables, fibres, wood for shelter and warmth, and associated with greenhouse gas. http://www.csiro.au/ the wide range of products derived from plants. BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY www.urbanecology. Australia’s government department dealing with the POWER FROM THE TIDE environment has a plan to address biodiversity Darwin-based Tenax Energy plans to progress a conservation over the next decade. The plan tidal energy project worth up to $500 million in the identifies the main threats to our biodiversity as: a) Clarence Strait between the Northern Territory and climate change (with conditions such as prolonged the Tiwi Islands. Located many metres below the drought), b) invasive species, c) loss, fragmentation ocean’s surface, tidal energy turbines are and degradation of habitat, d) unsustainable use of strategically located to maximise the tidal flow to turn natural resources, e) changes to the aquatic the turbine blades to generate 100 % green energy. environment and water flows, and f) inappropriate Generating tidal energy means: - more accurate fire regimes. It calls on all Australians to play an energy planning; no visual impact as the turbines are active role in protecting biodiversity currently in not visible, greenhouse gas emissions reduced; and decline. www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/ existing resources utilised. www.tenaxenergy.com.au/ THE PAST CONFRONTING THE FUTURE CLIMATE SCEPTICS In April 1990, OFF News noted Biology Professor The fierce argument continues in the popular media Charles Birch’s comments on his living in a unique on the existence, nature, causes, and impact of period of human history.The earth’s population had climate change. Sceptics argue heatedly that any grown by a thousand million in 13 years, 200,000 increase in heat is within normal variations, the hectares were disappearing every day under human contribution is irrelevant, and any gloomy concrete and asphalt, reducing the size and number predictions are inaccurate. of natural areas, and the original countryside. He Then we have Requiem for a Species by Clive called for planning to preserve remaining rainforests, Hamilton. As Tim Costello expressed it, “[This book] sand dune vegetation, coastal wetlands, estuaries, magnificently captures the idea that, by and large, and mangrove areas, coastal lakes, and lagoons. It none of us wants to believe that climate change is seems that not much has changed! real. It explains our inability to seriously weigh the DESTRUCTION OF RIVER RED GUMS evidence of climate change, and to take appropriate The Wilderness Society continues to campaign hard action to ensure our own survival.’ to change the current NSW government decision on the Murray River Red Gums, a reversal of its DIFFICULTIES IN THE OATLEY PARK AREA promise to create a new National Park. The eastern OFF is discussing with the appropriate authorities, half of the area is now open for logging for five sediment build-up in ponds around Lime Kiln Bay, years, and ostensibly then to become a National the landslip on Frog’s Hollow Rd and street trees Park. It is habitat for 13 threatened species, under threat of removal in Oatley Park Ave. including Squirrel Glider, Koala, and Yellow-bellied EMAIL COPY OF O.F.F. NEWS? Sheathtail Bat, and is the most drought resistant and There are advantages in receiving the newsletter by email - you important environmental refuge in the region. receive it a little earlier, save postage costs for the Society, and you www.lists.wilderness.org.au/ have instant access to the precise places in the websites mentioned. You can arrange it easily by contacting Robin on 9580 5663 or John at [email protected] Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall Fredrick St [cnr Letitia St] Oatley starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. . Visitors and are welcome to all meetings and excursions OFF News April/May 2010

COMING EVENTS: April 15th (Thursday) Field Day: Exploring the environs of Ultimo/Broadway. Leader: Keith Robinson. The walk starts at cnr Broadway and Harris Sts at 9.30 am, and then moves on to visit various buildings and points of interest in the area, including The Peter Johnson building, the ABC building, TAFE catering college, Harris Community Centre, and the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre. It should finish about 2.30- 3 pm. April 19th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Kris Spike, the NSW Branch President of Sustainable Population Australia, speaking on Population & Sustainability. [See note below.] May 1st (Saturday) Field Day: Tour of Bulli Illawarra Grevillea Park. Leader: Heather Mackey. Catch Bulli train leaving Sutherland at 8.11 am.Train from Oatley is 7.48am, into Sutherland at 7.58, and change onto the Bulli train. By car it is about 55mins drive from Oatley, down the freeway, and to Bulli pass. Turn left into Grevillea Park Rd. Meet at the park gate at 9.15am. Entry $5, children free. Bring lunch, morning tea. May 2nd. (Sunday) Oatley West Public School Tree Planting. There are a considerable number of young native plants for a planting. Members of the school community would be delighted to receive help. May 24th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Holly Parsons, who is the Sydney Project Manager, of the organisation Birds in Backyards, speaking on Birds in Backyards, promoting urban bird diversity.

KRIS SPIKE AT THE APRIL 19th MEETING KEEPING VISITORS POSTED Kris is a composer, a pianist and an environmental SMH of Mar 31st reported the installation of artificial campaigner. His interest in sustainability comes roosting posts at Towra Pt for the comfort of birds from his love of the outdoors and his concern for about to begin their annual 17,500kms round trip to preserving our remaining wild areas for future the Arctic Circle [with a comment from Debbie Andrew.] generations to enjoy. His scepticism about the CANE TOADS sustainability of growth-based economics goes back to high school days, and his interest in the Scientific studies of the Bufo marinus show that politics of population grew on the reluctance of very little is known about it, that there are many environment groups even to mention the issue. myths creating unjustified fear and loathing, and FLYING FOXES that better control methods [not including golf clubs] Peggy Eby’s talk on flying foxes at the last meeting may be not far off. www.raci.org.au/chemaust detailed their life cycle and behaviour. Her BRIEFLY remarkable photos documented birth and changing iodiversity (International Year of) - Details of social structure within a roost. Radio tracking has Bwhat Australia is doing throughout the Year can be shown that some fly over 100 kms in a night found at: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/ between sites. Roosts are located in different ommunity Garden Project: Narwee Public School is places in different years, depending on the trees Cestablishing an organic, no-dig vegetable garden that provide good supplies of nectar, pollen, and within the school, and is seeking community members fruit. Grey-headed Flying foxes are listed as a to participate and assist in running the project. [More threatened species, but large numbers are still at ph 9253 9756 or mailto:[email protected]] legally shot to protect agricultural crops. OFF has th lobbied the NSW Minister for Environment to cease ime Kiln Bay Planting Day will be on 20 April at licensing these killings. L8am. Meet at Glen Rd, Scout Hall. Bring a trowel if th you can. FIELD DAY MAR 28 - BONNET BAY WALK alt marsh and crabs. Mia Dalby-Ball, a specialist in We had eleven energetic walkers enjoy a leisurely saltmarsh regeneration, is speaking at Field of stroll through the beautiful Glen Reserve, admiring S th canopies of paperbarks and glistening bay views. Mars, Sat 17 April 2010 at 2pm on crabs in the We were then lucky to find the hands cave. To end saltmarsh, a critical link in the ecology of Sydney the morning we traversed Burnum Burnum Harbour. A short walk around the saltmarsh area is Sanctuary and lunched on the edge of a small also available, before or after the talk. Info: Cathy waterfall, such small oases so close to home. Merchant on 9817 4935 or mailto:[email protected] [Report by Leader: Jason Cockayne] rees dying outside Coles in Mulga Rd Oatley West BOAT HARBOUR SHOREBIRD EXCURSION Tafter a very short life are of concern.O.F.F. has th written to Hurstville Council expressing its concern Twelve keen birdwatchers set off on March 6 from and requesting replacement with a more suitable tree, Potter Point walking to Boat Harbour. We observed . the Black-fronted Dotterel at Potter Point, the very native to the area, e.g. Blueberry Ash large Aboriginal midden on the cliff of the northern orld Heritage: Royal National Park: Sutherland shore, and from the rock platform WEnvironmental Centre is continuing its campaign for a listing for the RNP. Next meeting is on Thurs a large group (14) of threatened th Sooty Oystercatchers with their 15 April at 6.30. [Enquiries: Bob Walshe ph 9528 0444] stunning red bills and legs. We Some useful signs from Australia, NZ and Canada had some terrific views of the migratory Pacific Golden Plover (12), some Red-necked Stint (34) and Ruddy Turnstone (6), looking very attractive in their rich autumn breeding feathers. These migratory shorebirds are due to head off to the Arctic Circle in Siberia and Alaska in the next few weeks. We may also have observed a Double-banded Plover from New Zealand that usually arrives here for our winter leaving again in August. [Report by Leader: Debbie Andrew]

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected]; Hon. Editor: John Davoren O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 20 10/ 5 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

Society’s Website: http://off.oatleypark.com May/June 2010

RAINFORESTS .WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY 5 TH JUNE Rainforests protect unique plants and animals, fragile “The global host of this year’s World Environment Day rainforest soils and the equality of water draining from the celebration is Rwanda. This small country in the Great catchment. To increase public awareness and interest in Lakes region of Africa is rapidly earning a reputation as a the rainforests of New South Wales, Information Centres green pioneer. Home to 52 threatened species, including are located around the State. To botanists, intact the rare mountain gorilla, Rwanda is showing how rainforests provide important clues to the evolution of the environmental sustainability [can contribute to] a country’s Australian flora. Rainforests largely escaped the economic growth”. [Quote from UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon fluctuating conditions that changed the face of the rest of www.unep.org/wed/2010/english/media ] Australia’s vegetation by surviving in moister sheltered FAUNA IN OATLEY locations along the Great Dividing Range. As a result, the On April 19 th , a pair of Australasian (Little) Grebes or remnant rainforests provided long-term stability, and as “Dabchicks” were feeding their stripy-headed chicks on some have existed unchanged for so many years, they the artificial wetland above the reed bed in Lime Kiln Bay. support many unusual animals, including the gastric- The adults were continually diving and popping up to the brooding frog, tree kangaroos, the primitive musky rat- surface, but with little food to supply their begging young; kangaroo, and the chameleon gecko. Until the 1980s, it the whole pond was covered in a floating carpet of red was thought that our rainforests originated overseas and Azolla and green Duckweed. The water had become invaded this continent across ancient land bridges. We oxygen-starved and grebe food such as Mosquito Fish, now know that they once covered large areas of Australia larvae and molluscs was rapidly diminishing. There were and ‘parented’ the gum trees, wattles, waratahs and all three chicks, but each parent concentrated on feeding a the other plants long regarded as the typical Australian single chick, with the third left to its own devices. This vegetation. http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/ chick dived only rarely and spent most of its time gleaning KIMBERLEY: HERITAGE ASSESSMENT what little food it could from the Azolla covering. The Wilderness Society notes that the Australian Heritage “Favouritism” is common with grebes and the two Council recently released a favourable preliminary favoured ones were clearly larger than the lone chick. By assessment for a National Heritage listing for West April 22 nd , the adults had gone and the chicks left to fend Kimberley, site, a thousand million years ago; of major for themselves. Were they abandoned, or just considered geological significance for the land that is now Australia. old enough to look after themselves? [Noted by David http://www.wilderness.org.au/ Waterhouse] FERAL DEER OATLEY PARK THIS MONTH The Invasive Species Council (ISC) lists Deer as a serious Alan Fairley listed these as flowering in May / June emerging pest problem, causing damage to both the Sunshine Wattle (Acacia terminalis ) once known as Port natural environment and agriculture. Numbers are Jackson wattle is a graceful, open shrub to about 1.5m expanding and invading new areas, many, reportedly, due high, with bright yellow flowers. The branches were a to deliberate introduction by recreational hunters. NSW source of witchetty grubs. has listed them as threatening, but they are still protected. Sweet-scented Wattle, (Acacia suaveolens ), a slender ISC calls on NSW to fall into line with other States and shrub to 2m, pale yellow or cream flowers. declare feral deer as pests. http://www.invasives.org.au/ Heath Banksia (Banksia ericifolia ) small crowded leaves, LATEST ON RIVER RED GUMS orange-red flower spikes NSW Environment Minister Frank Sartor has introduced Variable Bossiaea (Bossiaea heterophylla ) shrub to 1m legislation in parliament to protect some areas of River tall, yellow, and red pea-type flowers Red Gum Forests, but leaving half of the highest White Fingers (Caladenia catenata ) white ground orchids conservation forests at Millewa open to destructive with a single flower on a 20 cm stem logging for five more years. The Wilderness Society and WILDLIFE PARK? other groups are striving for get a much better outcome for A large block of land along the upper Hacking River at the forests before this bill becomes law. Helensburgh between sections of Garrawarra SCA, Royal http://www.theaustralian.com.au/ National Park and the Illawarra Escarpment is to be OATLEY BOWLING CLUB SITE auctioned at the end of May. As private subdivision and In the face of the continuing threat to this part of the Myles development of this land could pose serious threats to the Dunphy Reserve, and vague promises to resolve the wildlife of the area and the water quality of the Hacking matter of its future without great delay, Hurstville Council’s River, OFF, among other organisations, is urging the Draft Management Plan 2010 – 2014 does not even NSW Government to consider purchasing this and mention the site or Reserve. http://www.hurstville.nsw.gov.au/ adjoining blocks to add to the national park area.

Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall, Fredrick St Oatley [near the corner of Letitia St] starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. Visitors, including accompanied children, are welcome to all meetings and excursions.

OFF News May/June 2010

COMING EVENTS th May 24 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Holly Parsons, Sydney Project Manager of the organisation Birds in Backyards, speaking on Birds in Backyards, promoting urban bird diversity, what we can do to make our gardens more bird friendly. May 30 th (Sunday) Field day: Sydney Harbour – Balmoral to Cremorne Leader: Alison Gilroy. Meet at 0800 at Cnr Hodgson Ave and Cremorne Rd, Cremorne. We will carpool to Balmoral, to Cnr Awaba St and the Esplanade, by 08.30, from where the walk will commence. Initially we go up over the hill to Clifton Gardens, then via the Harbour National Park, around the waterfront, to Reid Park Mosman for lunch. We finish with a walk around Cremorne Pt, back at the cars, about 3pm. [Bring boots, hat, sunscreen, water, lunch (and swimmers if desired)].T 9580 5557 th June 28 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Ray and Elma Kearney speaking on Fantastic Fungi – Facts and Findings. Dr Ray Kearney is Associate Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney. Elma Kearney is an Executive member of the Sydney Fungal Studies Group.

MEMORIAL TO FRED BELL We then went next door to the Harris Community OFF determined to plant a memorial tree in Fred’s Centre, previously the manse. Then, north along honour, and the northern approach to the Como Bridge Bulwara Rd at Fig St, we saw the sandstone blocks with Walkway chosen as a suitable place. The formal planting engravings of native plants. This was the end of our will be on Friday 28 th May. People should gather at 10am venture north and our return journey took us past at the start of the walkway, at the gate at the bottom of interesting terrace houses The final stop was at the Ian Myra Place Oatley, the cul-de-sac, left off Mimosa Street. Thorpe Aquatic Centre where we had a guided tour of Do put this in your diary. the complex, its pools and gymnasium. [Report by Keith Robinson: Tour Leader] SUSTAINABLE POPULATION st At the April 19 th meeting, Kris Spike, the NSW Branch ILLAWARRA GREVILLEA PARK FIELD DAY May 1 President of Sustainable Population Australia, spoke on Twenty-five attended a very pleasant day at these Population & Sustainability. His theme was that beautiful gardens at Bulli. Plant sales just inside the continuing economic and population growth can only gate were a popular stop. Moving on to the chapel area, result in irreparable damage to the environment we enjoyed a short talk on the history of the Park, and Governments want to expand their countries, their had morning tea. Equipped with maps, most did the population, and economies. Politicians, business groups, rainforest walk, while some chose one of the several academics, and media commentators refuse to other walks. Meeting back for lunch, we then spent acknowledge the inherent problems arising from some time browsing around the gardens, especially inexorable growth. The transition to an economic system enjoying the artistically arranged grevilleas. Then back based on stable levels of production and consumption to the plant sales, before we finally headed home. would be full of challenges, but continuing with the [Report by Leader: Heather Mackey] intellectually bankrupt system of endless growth will BRIEFLY hasten our headlong rush to environmental disaster. Answers to Global Warming Scepticism by Heather THE ULTIMO TOUR Thurs 14 th April Hughes & Fiona Bell-Whittaker is a non-technical We started at the Agincourt Hotel at the corner of Harris summary of Fred Bell’s in-depth study of this Street, with members of the group reflecting on the contentious subject. http://pronomics1.com/answers.pdf history of Agincourt and Henry V’s battle with France in New Bus Route Punchbowl Bus Co [PBC] has 1415. In a small lane behind the hotel, we observed introduced Route 955 linking Hurstville, Oatley, some sandstone block construction bonded with shell Mortdale station, and return, on an hourly basis. This mortar dating from Sydney’s earlier days. may help to reduce car use. It is suggested that PBC At the northern end of the Devonshire St, we saw the might change the times a little to link up the 955 disused railway that once carried the goods trains to buses with the trains at Mortdale and Hurstville Darling Harbour. We looked inside the Peter Johnson that do not stop at Oatley. [Timetable T 9153 8787 building belonging to the UTS School of Architecture. We www.punchbowlbus.com.au/ ] then moved to the ABC building with its TV and radio Wood-Fired Electricity Plant: Eden, on the south studios and the Eugene Goosens Hall. Outside we coast, is to be the first Australian town to be so viewed the Gary Deirmendjian sculpture and then the powered, despite concerns that burning trees could Field building in Thomas St. generate more greenhouse gas emissions than burning The next points were the city’s major power substation, coal. http://www.smh.com.au/environment/ the old Haymarket Bell tower, and the disused railway World Ocean Day 8th June. Designation of World bridge over Ultimo Rd before we came to the TAFE Oceans Day by the UN provides an important boost building, the Apprentice Restaurant, and a room to those organisations and individuals deeply containing historic items from early TAFE days. Along committed to ocean conservation and improving the Mary Ann St, named after one of Surgeon Harris’s health of our world’s ocean. http://www.theoceanproject. daughters, is a row of early terrace houses. Then along Bulwara Rd, we came to the Ultimo Community Centre. The manager told us about the Centre and its various functions. Also in the Community Centre is the Jessie Street National Women’s Library, and here we were told of its work and its books. Following lunch at the Centre, we took a short walk to the Uniting Church where the Minister, Robin Davies, made us welcome, talked of the church and introduced us to the Coffee Table form of gathering. [cont]

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621, or mailto:[email protected] Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Published by OATLEY FLORA & FAUNA CONSERVATION SOCIETY INC. Issue: 2010/6 Print Post App. No. PP 255003/03239 Since 1955

OFF Website: http://off.oatleypark.com June/July 2010

PLANTING A TREE FOR FRED BELL AUSTRALIA'S YEAR OF BIODIVERSITY A group of OFF members, friends, and members of Bush Blitz is a three year multimillion dollar program to Fred's family gathered on 28th May at the start of the document the plants and animals in hundreds of walkway from Oatley across the Como Bridge to witness properties across Australia’s National Reserve System. the planting of a tree for Dr Fred Bell, a wonderful OFF Teams of Australia’s top scientists will survey hundreds member who died last year. of Australian reserves to document the native plants and It was a beautiful morning after rain, and the gathering animals they protect. The surveys are expected to felt uplifted in remembering and honouring a man who uncover hundreds of new species and provide baseline did so much for our society and the cause of scientific data that will help protect Australia’s conservation. An insightful academic and a profoundly biodiversity for a generation to come. This is the world’s decent man Fred is sorely missed. The tree planted in first continental scale survey -. www.bushblitz.org.au his name is now a symbol of our regard for him. Joan LOCAL FAUNA Bell planted the lilly pilly (Acmena smithii) with the In July last year a Grey Butcherbird built a nest in a dead assistance of Matt Allison who had prepared the ground. tree in Myles Dunphy Reserve. The nest bowl was Fred and Joan's daughters, Fiona and Heather, shared shallow and untidy, consisting of an some of their memories of their father and read thoughts interwoven platform of thin crooked sticks. prepared by Joan. John Davoren spoke on behalf of Each time the bird returned with a new OFF, noting that the tree is on the pathway linking many stick, it sat on the nest and turned or fields and aspects of life that were of special significance swivelled its body as if shaping the to Fred. platform into a bowl. A surprising number There was then a period of silent reflection on Fred's life of birds will commence nest building in mid winter – and the life of the tree. The fresh breeze blew and the including Magpies, Ravens and Rainbow Lorikeets as birds chattered all about as the gathering quietly well as Butcherbirds. [Nature Note from David Waterhouse] celebrated Fred's life and the healthy sapling, now OATLEY PARK IN JUNE known as Fred's Tree. Alan Fairley has listed the following plants as flowering:  Sunshine Wattle (Acacia BIRDS IN BACKYARDS terminalis); shrub to 2m, pinnate Holly Parsons, Sydney Project Manager of the leaves, bright yellow flowers, organisation Birds in Backyards, spoke at the May 24th >>>> meeting on making our gardens more bird friendly. Birds  Sweet-scented Wattle (Acacia in Backyards is a research, education, and conservation suaveolens), slender shrub to program focusing on birds and the urban environment. 2m, pale yellow or cream flowers, The program was in response to the reduction of bird  Heath Banksia (Banksia species living in built up areas, the rapid expansion of ericifolia); small crowded leaves, these areas and the consequent loss of habitat. There is orange-red flower spikes, much background material in website: http://birdsinbackyards  Variable Bossiaea (Bossiaea heterophylla); shrub to LOWER GEORGES RIVER SUSTAINABILITY 1m tall, yellow, and red pea-type flowers, The Lower Georges River Sustainability Initiative  White Fingers (Caladenia catenata); white ground (LGRSI) has launched its Getting Greener Program orchid with a single flower, and a 20 cm stem, aimed at improving sustainability across the Lower  Rough Wax-flower (Philotheca scabra); white with Georges River catchment area, covering parts of five petals, small shrub on sheltered slopes. Hurstville City, Kogarah City, Rockdale City, and OATLEY BOWLING CLUB SITE Sutherland Shire. Community groups and business are Hurstville Council has spent some $110,000 on a invited to get involved and OFF is looking at ways of feasibility study and community consultation with no assisting in the process. More information on the resulting action. Council does not refer to the site in its program is available from Col Freeman 9562 1703 or planning documents, has still made no decision on its 0434 154 865 and at www.georgesriver.org.au/ future, refuses community access, and is not maintaining it. Councillor Anne Wagstaff has lodged a notice of TREE PLANTING FOR URBAN AREAS rd th motion for the Council meeting on 23 June asking for a State Line [5 May] reported on the $30 million program for tree planting in urban areas. Competitive tender will public briefing for councillors and community on progress on options for future use of this important facility. You purchase 15,000 semi-matured trees from state are encouraged to attend this meeting in support. The nurseries. However, Chinese elms and. Plane trees are rd to be preferred, and one quote for $1000 for one of the 23 June council meeting will commence at 8pm. trees selected was puzzling. www.abc.net.au/ Meetings of the Society are held at the Uniting Church Hall, Fredrick St Oatley [near the corner of Letitia St] starting at 7.45pm, usually on the fourth Monday of the month. Visitors, including accompanied children, are welcome to all meetings and excursions. OFF News June/July 2010

COMING EVENTS June 28th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Ray and Elma Kearney speaking on Fantastic Fungi – Facts and Findings. Dr Ray Kearney is Associate Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney. Elma Kearney is an Executive member of the Sydney Fungal Studies Group. July 4th (Sunday) Field day: Royal National Park- Curra Moors Circuit. Distance of about 9-10 Km, an easy 5 hours or so. Meet at 9.30 am at the Curra Moors car park on Sir Bertram Stevens Dr, approx 1 Km north of the turn off to Garie Beach (car park sign faces south). The first part of the walk is on Curra Moors Track, then down a track with some damp and eroded sections, to an easy walk along a service track onto the heath. We return along the Coast Track, though the heath, then back to re-join the Curra Moors Track. Curracurrong Falls can be observed while we have lunch. Note that there are no safety fences near some cliff edges. Bring hat, lunch and water, and strong walking shoes/boots, as the track may be wet in places. Leader: Graham Lalchere, T 9580 3107 or 0430 968 260. July 26th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Alison Hanlon speaking on Catchment management, partnerships and the management of the Georges River July 31st (Saturday) Field day: Sydney Harbour – Watsons Bay to Bondi. Leader: Alan Fairley Aug 23rd (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Jeff Smith speaking on Legal Aspects of Climate Change and Biodiversity Conservation. Aug 28th (Saturday) Field day: Gerringong to Kiama - Costal Walk. Leaders Lesley and Peter Cox

THE MOSMAN FIELD DAY Sun 30th May ‘’KIMBERS CREEK’’ 12 participants braved the weather forecast of cyclonic The volunteers of Lime Kiln Bay Bushland Sanctuary wind and rain, to have an extremely pleasant walk were successful in securing a government water grant from Balmoral to Mosman. We proceeded up over the in 2005 that helped to stop erosion along the hill by the naval reserve, to Clifton Gardens and a embankment of the creek. Weed trees were removed delicious morning coffee break. This precinct has including Weeping Willows (Salix sp.) and small and become part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, large leaf Privet (Ligustrum sp). Two organised with all types of interesting historical naval buildings. planting days were part of the grant to revegetate We proceeded around the harbour foreshore to along the creek line, and 1,200 trees, shrubs and Taylors Bay and to Bradleys Head and had lunch at grasses have been successfully planted. Sirius Cove Park. We then climbed up over Mosman Seeking a name for the creek upstream from the area hill to Reid Park and arrived back at the cars at now known as L.K.B. Bushland Sanctuary, the Cremorne about 3pm. [Report by Alison Gilroy: Walk Leader] Bushcare Group suggests “Kimbers Creek”. This was MYLES DUNPHY CREEK - SAFETY UPGRADE the name used by locals in the early twentieth century, Last year the OFF obviously linked to the Kimber’s dairy farm beside the Committee decided to creek. One of the Bushcare Group, Ruth Staples investigate improving the remembers, as a child, running around the L.K.B. area safety of the sewer viaduct with its salt marsh and the large body of water, later to over the creek in Myles be clogged with sediment. [Report by Jason Cockayne] Dunphy Reserve below the BRIEFLY Bowling Club by installing FF Committee The committee is looking for a new safety rails. Sydney Water Omember, and your nomination at the next meeting was contacted, inspected the would be warmly welcomed. site, and volunteered to ime Kiln Bay constructed wetland The rubbish install the safety rails. The Ltrap has been severely damaged, is no longer work is complete and with the installation of covers protecting the water, and requires urgent repair. over the trip hazards on the viaduct, as shown here. ational Parks: The NSW Government’s National NEVERFAIL BAY RESERVE NParks and Wildlife Amendment (Visitors and There is a little known Tourists) Bill 2010 was passed on 9th June. narrow strip of Permitted now in national parks will be new hotels, conservation public land resorts, cabins, lodges, private facilities, and shops at Neverfail Bay, with for tourists, sport, and recreation. some significant environmental features. Neverfail Bay was named after a water spring which supplied a reliable source of fresh water. The bay was once home to extensive oyster farms and a landing point for oyster barges. In 1993, the last oyster farm was removed due to deteriorating water quality. www.kogarah.nsw.gov.au/ FAYE COUGHLAN Faye recently resigned from the OFF Committee after ten years of service, including seven years as Welfare Officer, and five years as Secretary. Faye is an enthusiastic and effective worker and, among her many contributions, arranged the OFF Annual Dinner. Faye will be very much missed by and from the Committee.

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621, or [email protected]; Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

Check out OFF website: http://off.oatleypark.com/ Issue 10/8 Aug/Sept 2010

GEORGES RIVER COMBINED COUNCILS’ WATTLE DAY – 1St SEPT COMMITTEE Inc (GRCCC) Proclamation of Wattle as the At the July meeting Alison Hanlon, Executive Officer of national floral emblem was the Committee spoke on the history, objectives, and completed during the work of the GRCCC. The Georges River begins its Bicentennial Year 1988. Golden journey approximately 60km south-west of Sydney in the Wattle, Acacia pycnantha , was town of Appin, flows north towards Liverpool, through the actual species chosen. In the Chipping Norton Lake Scheme, then east to Botany 1992, the Commonwealth and Bay. The catchment area of land draining into the river is States agreed to unify Australia's approximately 960km 2. With over 1 million people living Wattle Day to 1st September, the within it, this is one of the most highly urbanised first day of the spring season. catchments in Australia, and everything that occurs www.wattleday.asn.au/ within this area affects the river, and is of concern to the GREENER ELECTRICITY Committee. Alison’s most informative address cannot be Electricity generation across Australia’s five eastern states appropriately summarised in this space, but much of the was greener in 2009 compared with the previous year. detail can be found on website: http://www.georgesriver Growth of 11% in renewable electricity generation and 8% THREATS TO WILD ANIMALS OR TREES for gas meant that the average carbon intensity of electricity Threatened native animals and plants that live on prime fell by 1% compared with 2008. This was despite a development land could be ''offset'' by an undertaking to continued reliance on coal-fired power stations and an protect different species somewhere else, under increase in the use of some of the largest and most proposed state government changes to biodiversity greenhouse intensive coal-fired stations in the country. The rules. It means an echidna colony in one part of NSW findings are part of The Climate Group’s Electricity could be destroyed in exchange for the preservation of a Generation Report 2009 on electricity generation and rare stand of trees elsewhere in the state. The proposed associated emissions from coal, gas, liquid fuel and new biodiversity certification guidelines would allow renewables. However, electricity and emissions across the developers of large urban projects even greater flexibility five states continue to be dominated by a relatively small than the controversial BioBanking scheme, and includes number of large coal-fired power stations: the top 20 provisions for cash payments for building on the habitat generators of electricity were all coal-fired and accounted of certain animals if no suitable offset can be found. for more than 90 % of [their] greenhouse gas emissions. www.smh.com.au/environment/ The top 10 accounted for more than 70 % of total FORESTS TO WOODCHIPS emissions. http://www.theclimategroup.org/_assets/files Australian native forests are being logged at a greater WEATHER-RELATED DISASTERS rate than ever before. 85% of all of the native trees The number of disasters has doubled in the last 30 years, logged in Australia are wood chipped and shipped to according to a comprehensive analysis of storms, floods, Japan for the paper industry. New South Wales, and droughts. There were 828 "weather catastrophes" Victoria, and Tasmania are involved in logging native involving loss of life and major economic damage across forests for woodchips, and it is not a sustainable practice the world last year, compared with 317 in 1980. The in any of these states. In NSW alone, 2000 trees a day analysis by Munich Re, the reinsurance company, found are sent to the chip mill, or 1 million tonnes of logs a 385 such events in the first six months of this year - the year. Native forests are now being logged on 20-year second highest in any January to June period since records cycles, when it takes some 150 years for a tree to grow began in 1974. The report does not include the recent to maturity and form part of a mature ecosystem. flooding in Pakistan, landslides in China and wildfires in Logging in such short Russia. http://blogmyway.org/news/ cycles thins out the canopy, takes away JUDITH MALCOLM 1940 – 2010 It is with great sadness that I note the death of our member most of the mature st trees, and causes the Judith Malcolm. Judith died suddenly on 31 July following forests to dry out. There a stroke. With a background in teaching and law Judith is mounting evidence to became a great conservationist and was active in each suggest that the place she lived, in North Sydney, Balmain and Haberfield devastating fires such as before coming to Oatley, where again she took a great the recent Black interest in matters of community concern. Judith was a Saturday fires are made vibrant member of OFF and was on the committee for a worse by logging forests. term. Our deep sympathy goes to John and all their family. http://www.forestmedia ; Julian Sheen

OFF News Aug/Sept 2010

COMING EVENTS Aug 23 rd (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Jeff Smith, Director of the NSW Environmental Defender’s Office speaking on Legal Aspects of Climate Change and Biodiversity Conservation. Aug 28 th (Saturday) Field day: Kiama to Gerringong and return. 12 kilometres. (Note change from program, due to possible track closure at Werri Lagoon). Meet Kiama Railway Station 9.30 am and then drive to start of walk at end of Elanora St. Allow 1½ hours driving time from Oatley. Train departs Sutherland 7.11 am, arriving Kiama 9.13 am. The track is very exposed, has some steep grades, is generally grassy but with some rocky/muddy/uneven sections. Wear sturdy footwear, and bring hat, jacket, sunscreen, first aid, plenty of water and lunch and snacks. Please contact Leaders: Lesley or Peter Cox on 0438 878 774 for more details. 12 th Sept (Sunday) Earth Foundation is having a Spring Gathering in Oatley Park focussing on the bushland, catchment management in Lime Kiln Bay and fire management. The organisation is a not-for-profit group providing environmental education in the field. Lunch is to be provided and a fee will be charged. Bookings essential. Phone Kate Hughes on 45 682118 Sept 16 th (Thursday) Field day Cabarita and Breakfast Point Leader: Keith Robinson Sept 27 th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Robin Stacey speaking on Flora and Fauna that shaped Australia’s science and culture. Oct 9 th (Saturday) Field day: Lower Blue Mountains Leaders: Graham and Janet Austin

WALK REPORT. WATSONS BAY TO BONDI. OFF ANNUAL DINNER ST On 31 July, the forecast of showers kept some The 2010 Annual Dinner will be held on Friday 12 th participants away and only nine defied the threatening November, 7 pm at South Hurstville R.S.L. Club , 72 weather to meet at Watsons Bay. As it turned out, Connells Point Rd, South Hurstville (almost cnr of King there were no showers, the early cloud lifted and it Georges Rd) in the South Lounge. Cost $35 per person was a wonderful day for a walk. Firstly, the group for a Buffet including pre dinner platters, a selection of inspected fortifications at Green Point and South Head hot dishes, salads, desert, bread rolls and tea or coffee and walked around the historic Lighthouse and with mints. Drinks can be purchased at the bar. Alison Cottage. The Harbour looked great and sunshine lit up Gilroy and Robin Dickson will be taking bookings and the City through the clouds. After The Gap, the track accepting payment at the September/October meetings, led up the cliff line to Signal Tower for a picnic lunch. or can be contacted on 9580 5557 or 9580 5663. Beyond Macquarie Lighthouse, we passed around the spectacular rocky inlet known as Diamond Bay, and Briefly then followed the track and road towards Bondi Beach. peakers for Next Year: Our Program Officer is We inspected the Aboriginal rock engravings in the S looking for interesting speakers on subjects middle of Bondi Golf Course, and as we stood beside related to flora and fauna for some of next year’s a large carved whale, the real thing appeared offshore meetings. If you have any suggestions please spouting and frolicking - a truly fitting end to another contact Melina Amerasinghe on 9580 1504. memorable OFF walk. [Report by walk leader Alan yles Dunphy Stream Watch The watch is Fairley] M monitoring the 2 drainage lines that meet in the OATLEY PARK IN SEPTEMBER reserve, one carrying stormwater from Oatley Myrtle-leaf Wattle (Acacia myrtifolia; shrub to 1 m, shopping centre and the other just downstream of short broad leaves, pale yellow balls up to 8 in a Mulga Rd. .Testing days are generally 4 th Tue of the group) month, meeting at the former Oatley Bowling Club Sunshine Wattle (Acacia terminalis; shrub to 3m, car park about 9 a.m. Visitors are welcome. For feathery leaves, pale yellow balls up to 40 grouped.) more information ring Sharyn T9579 1262 or Sweet-scented Wattle (Acacia suaveolens; slender Heather 0425 291 879. www.streamwatch.org.au/ shrub to 2m, straight narrow leaves, pale yellow balls) embership fees Next year members can opt to Pink Spider Flowers (Grevillea sericea; shrub to 2m, M pay their membership fee by direct bank flowers usually pink but sometimes white) transfer – [more detail when the renewal notice is Green spider Flowers (Grevillea mucronulata; low or sent out]. The fee will remain at $25 per family for spreading shrub to 1.5m, groups of 6 or more flowers) 2011. Rough Wax-flowers (Philotheca scabra; small shrub arine sanctuaries The NSW government plans to on sheltered slopes, white flowers with 5 petals) M remove the vital protection provided by marine Fuschia Heath (Epacris longiflora; 2 cm red tubes sanctuaries for our turtles, dolphins, seahorses and with white lobes, sharp-pointed leaves to 12 mm long) hundreds of other marine plants and animals. This Bush Pea (Pultenaea stipularis; shrub to 2m, yellow move goes against the overwhelming scientific and pea-type flowers, and crowded thin leaves to 3cm community support for marine parks. long). [Alan Fairley provided this list] www.bluemountains.org.au/HutNews/ OATLEY FLORA AND FAUNA SOCIETY Oatley Flora and Fauna Society conducts regular bush walks and has speakers on interesting topics at their monthly meetings. The Society also supports tree- planting events, Clean up Australia and restoration of the local bushland. You can help improve the local environment. Join us at our monthly meetings to hear interesting speakers and meet like-minded people. More detail at: http://off.oatleypark.com/_documents/ If you are reading this on line just click the underlined section to open up the website at the precise reference point.

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected] ; Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

OFF website: http://off.oatleypark.com/ Issue 10/9 Sept/Oct 2010

LIONS FESTIVAL - OATLEY - 16TH OCTOBER OATLEY BOWLING CLUB SITE rd The terrible news has just arrived that at the Hurstville Each year, on the 3 Saturday in Council meeting on 22 nd Sept this iconic site will most October the streets and parks of likely be taken from public hands, and given to Oatley are transformed into a sea developers, in response to an allegedly social need, of stalls, entertainment, rides, dismissing opponents as a narrow-minded minority. Go music. www.oatleylions.org.au urgently to http://www.friendsofoatley.com/ PLEASE REACT OFF runs a stall each year, and is looking for volunteers for the day, OBJECT TO LONGWALL COAL MINING or any part thereof. Please The Bulli Seam Operation (BSO) threatens the contact Liz Cameron. Headwaters of the Georges River and the Woronora and WEEDS CRISIS Cataract drinking water catchments. The expert panel After land clearing, weeds are recognised as the most established to review BHP’s 30-year plan to undermine serious threat to endangered native plants and animals in 220 sq kms of the landscape has delivered its final report NSW. This threat is rapidly increasing as more weed to the planning minister, but it is not known when the species are introduced and spread into new areas. That minister’s decision is to be announced. Many OFF is why the Invasive Species Council has prepared members indicated to Sharyn Cullis at the August Stopping NSW’s Creeping Peril , a 26-page report calling meeting that they would be objecting. Now is the time for for concerted action, largely from the NSW Government, lobbying letters, faxes, and conversations with politicians! to address the state's growing weed problem. The report To assist in your efforts, Sharyn has prepared a one has been endorsed by 30 organisations that represent page Letter Writers Kit with key facts, arguments and a weed experts, bush regenerators, land managers, list of politicians and their contact details. If you have not volunteer weed groups, and national, state, and local yet written faxed or talked, and do not remember the conservation groups. http://www.invasives.org.au/ details, phone Sharyn 9579 1262 or CLIMATE CHANGE: THE LATEST EVIDENCE mailto:[email protected] to receive an email or post. The Australian Academy of Science publication, “The [Note the “underscores” after go and river, i.e. go_river_@] Science of Climate Change: Questions and Answers” SAVING RED RIVER GUMS argues that: “The Earth’s climate has changed. The 16,000 hectares of threatened river red gums along the global average surface temperature has increased over Murray River on the NSW-Victoria border will gain from a the last century and many other associated changes NSW government plan to flood the Koondrook-Perricoota have been observed. The available evidence implies that State Forest from 2011. The NSW Natural Resources greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are the Commission revealed in 2009 that in some areas, 75 per main cause. It is expected that, if greenhouse gas cent of river red gums ( Eucalyptus camaldulensis ) are emissions continue at business-as-usual rates, global stressed, dead, or dying from a lack of water. The new temperatures will further increase significantly over the $57m project aims to simulate a major natural flood every coming century and beyond.” The full report is at few years. http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/journal/artificial- www.science.org.au/ [Courtesy of the latest Hut News] flood-boost-for-river-red-gums.htm SEA EAGLES ON VIDEO OFF ANNUAL DINNER There is a nest of Sea Eagles high on a Scribbly Gum in the Newington Nature Reserve at Sydney Olympic Park. The 2010 Annual Dinner will be held on Friday 12 th A team of Volunteers from the Birds Australia Discovery November, 7 pm at South Hurstville R.S.L. Club , 72 Centre and Sydney Olympic Park Rangers have placed Connells Point Rd, South Hurstville (near the corner of King cameras atop the trees to record these birds’ behaviours Georges Rd) in the South Lounge. and very interesting observations have been made. Cost is $35 per person for a Buffet including pre dinner http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/the-organisation/eaglecam.html . platters, a selection of hot dishes, salads, desert, bread MORE WHALES rolls and tea or coffee with mints. Drinks can be purchased The Humpback Whale has been protected in the at the bar. Singers are expected. southern hemisphere since 1963 and a worldwide Prior booking is essential. Alison Gilroy and Robin Dickson moratorium on whaling was declared in 1986. All marine will be taking bookings and payment at the September and mammals in Australia are protected and the Humpback October meetings. Otherwise, they can be contacted on Whale population is making a slow recovery. 9580 5557 or 9580 5663. http://www.npansw.org.au/ [These last two items are courtesy of the Hut Each guest is asked to wear a hat (conservative or News Sept n 91] zany/frivolous). The donation of suitable raffle items would be warmly welcomed.

OFF News Sept/Oct 2010

COMING EVENTS *Sept 27 th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Ben Hope speaking on his study of the impact of hazard reduction burns on long-nosed and southern brown bandicoots in northern Sydney. Ben works as a technical officer with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. He will focus on the results gained by radio- tracking bandicoots before, during, and after a hazard reduction fire. [Robin Stacey, the scheduled speaker, had to withdraw, but hopes to be with us next year. Ben agreed to speak a month earlier.] th *Oct 10 (Sunday) Field day to Jibbon Head, Royal National Park, 6.5 km return. Meet at the Bundeena Ferry Warf at 9.55am, or by train, take the 8.50 am from Mortdale (new timetable) to Cronulla, front carriage and catch the ferry from Cronulla wharf at 9.30am to Bundeena (Seniors fare $2.85 ). The day includes Port Hacking and ocean views, Aboriginal rock engraving, and a possible swim at Jibbon Beach. There will be some uphill walking, then downhill on a sandy track to the coast, narrow cliff track, then across the sand on Jibbon Beach. Wear sturdy footwear, hat, and sunscreen. Bring lunch, plenty of water and cossie (optional). Leader: Janet Austin T 9579 2375. *Oct 30 th (Saturday) Field day to Cockatoo Island. Leader John Davoren [Details in the next OFF News] Nov 12 th ( Friday) 7 pm Annual Dinner at South Hurstville R.S.L. Club, [*Please note the several changes in dates, speakers, and destinations from the published program]

LEGAL ASPECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE OFF WEBSITE At the August 23 rd meeting, Jeff Smith Director of the Members should look at the up-dated OFF website. NSW Environmental Defender’s Office spoke on There are new sections on Myles Dunphy Reserve, Climate Change and the profound implications for Stream Watch, Flying Foxes and photos and stories biodiversity conservation in NSW. He spoke of the role from our activities. The site is getting many “hits” from of the EDO in arguing for the re-evaluation of the students doing environmental projects. Check it out at current approach to conservation, and the importance http://off.oatleypark.com/ . of the legal and ethical questions of what to protect THE OFF COMMITTEE and why. There is a need to enshrine references to Are you interested in joining our committee? We would climate change in legislation and to try to predict its like to hear from OFF members who would be effects. More at: http://www.edo.org.au/edonsw/ TH interested in standing for the committee. New SOUTH COAST FIELD DAY - 28 AUG. members would soon discover how rewarding With a brisk breeze and brilliant sunshine, 18 walkers participation is for the individual and the committee. set off on the Kiama Coast walk, starting south of New members will be particularly welcome. Kiama at Loves Bay, walking to Werri Lagoon at Briefly Gerringong over some quite steep hills and then riends of Hurstville Library meet on 4th Thurs. returning to Loves Bay, a distance of 12 kilometres. F at the library Exhibition. Room at 10 am with Soon after starting, we were fortunate to see a pair of interesting guest speakers; new friends welcome! sea eagles circling over the hills. A little later, some Contact Dawn Emerson, Secretary Ph: 9543 1060 sharp eyes noticed a pod of dolphins, very close inshore, apparently 'surfing' in the big swells. Then in arine sanctuaries The NSW government plans to the afternoon whales were spotted. The Kiama M remove the vital protection provided by marine coastline is dramatic and from the highest point, there sanctuaries for our turtles, dolphins, seahorses and are views south to the Point Perpendicular region and hundreds of other marine plants and animals. This north to Port Kembla. Interpretative signs along the move goes against the overwhelming scientific and way provided interesting details about the history and community support for marine parks. geology of that part of the coast. It was a delightful day http://www.bluemountains.org.au/ and much enjoyed by everyone. [Report by Leaders Lesley ackling Wicked Problems recently published by and Peter Cox] T Newsouth Books looks at climate change and CABARITA AND BREAKFAST Pt - SEPT 16 TH related issues and long-term solutions. Eight walkers joined Leader Keith Robinson’s tour, http://www.gleebooks.com.au/ urpentine Ironbark Forest Field Event, starting at the Federation Pavilion and going on to the th William Beech Monument, the Marina, Hen & Chicken T Macquarie University. Thurs 7 October 10.15am Bay, Correy’s historic house, several restaurants, and -12.30pm, through the Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest remnant on Campus, followed by a planting Cape Cabarita. Keith reflected on the history of the th area, and the extraordinary mixture of conservation bee and Lunch. RSVP to Angie Fricker by the 30 and development in recent years. Sept on 98956137 or mailto:[email protected] OFF SOCIETY LOGO. embership fees For 2011 members can opt to OFF Committee has decided that the Society needs a M pay their membership fee by direct bank logo for our publicity and promotion. If you are a transfer – [more details when the renewal notice is Graphic Designer and could contribute ideas for an sent out]. The fee for 2011 will remain at $25 per effective design, please contact the Secretary. family. OFF DONATIONS FOR 2010 OFF has a tradition of donating to other environmental organisations. This year we will donate $1400. An amount of $200 will be given to each of seven groups. They are Total Environment Centre, Australian Bush Heritage, Birds Australia, Kuring-Gai Bats, Wires, Wilderness Society, and the Colong Foundation. If you cannot open the pdf version of this newsletter, click here for an Adobe Reader http://www.adobe.com/

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected] ; Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

OFF website: http://off.oatleypark.com/ Issue 10/10 Oct /Nov 2010

OATLEY BOWLING CLUB SITE TASMANIAN FORESTS Hurstville Council records show that on 22 nd Sept it The Florentine Protection Soc reports that despite recent agreed to a four-part resolution summarised here. announcement by the forest industry that it will no longer 1. Council as landowner, submit an application to log Tasmania's ancient forests, it still is logging. rezone to Residential and reclassify to Operational Meanwhile, radiocarbon dating tests carried out on wood Land the former Oatley Bowling Club site to permit from Styx Valley trees reveal tree ages between 500 and seniors’ housing. 600 years. www.stillwildstillthreatened.org/ 2. Council as landowner ensure that any seniors’ housing on the site includes a community meeting SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS COAL THREAT facility and community garden for general public use. The Environmental Defenders Office [NSW] reports that 3. Funds from the lease go towards the upgrading of Korean steel maker POSCO, in partnership with local Jubilee Park, Mortdale. coal miner Cockatoo Coal, are purchasing a 115sq km 4. Council consult with Kogarah Council, engage an coal lease in Sutton Forest from Anglo American, and access consultant to report on grades and pathway that Boral has recently been granted a new coal widths, and to investigate and report on ways to exploration lease over 63sq km in the Berrima area. If overcome excessive grades and narrow pathway allowed, serious coal mining is coming to the Southern widths and to prepare a specific plan of management Highlands . for the Myles Dunphy Reserve . QUEENSLAND WILD RIVERS Seven Councillors, Sansom, Badalati, Wong, Liu, The Wilderness Society notes that the Queensland Wild Pickering, Perry, and McMahon voted in favour and five Rivers Act, passed five years ago and now being Councillors, Wagstaff, Hindi, Istephan, Jacovou, and debated at federal level, was aimed at protecting free- Giegerl voted against the resolution. flowing rivers. Ten spectacular river systems are now On the positive side, Council has at last agreed to protected Wild Rivers and 40 Indigenous Wild River address a specific Plan of Management for the Myles Rangers work across Far North Queensland. While there Dunphy Reserve, some public use of the area in question was clear Indigenous support for Act at the time, some and the significant issue of steep grade access. now see it as a threat to Indigenous development. The These positives steps, however, do not compensate for mining lobby has also spoken out forcefully against it. the number of alarming problems arising from this Supporters of the legislation say it is an environmental resolution. regulation designed to work with landholders and 1. Council’s primary concern still appears to be the Traditional Owners to help maintain the wildlife, natural raising of money, not the conservation of a significant resources, and productivity of the river basin. They argue part of the iconic Myles Dunphy Reserve . that it restricts highly destructive development, like 2. The seniors housing objective could be misleading. If mining, from sensitive waterways and wetlands, and that it is, as it appears, in the “over 55” category, this it regulates the impact of development in the river simply provides an opening for developers. The catchments. http://www.wilderness.org.au / houses would be expensive to lease or buy, and could not be accurately described as meeting a THE OFF ANNUAL DINNER social need. th 3. The proposed reclassification to “operational land” The 2010 Annual Dinner will be held on Friday 12 means that Council can then sell the land. November, 7 pm at South Hurstville R.S.L. Club , 72 4. Finally, there was no restriction of “low rise building” Connells Point Rd, South Hurstville (near the corner of King mentioned in the resolution. Georges Rd) in the South Lounge. Cost is $35 per person for a Buffet including pre dinner THE DUNPHY WILDERNESS FUND platters, a selection of hot dishes, salads, dessert, bread The Dunphy Wilderness Fund was set up by the NSW rolls and tea or coffee with mints. Drinks can be purchased Government in 1996, to honour the contribution made by at the bar. Singers are expected. the Dunphy family to the conservation of NSW. The Prior booking is essential. Alison Gilroy and Robin Dickson Government started the fund by committing $5.5 million will be taking bookings and payment at the October meeting. over five years. The Program aims to acquire private land Otherwise, they can be contacted on 9580 5557 or 9580 to consolidate and protect wilderness areas. It has 5663. purchased 32 properties totalling 38,000 hectares in eight wilderness areas. The Colong Bulletin of September Each guest is asked to wear a hat notes that less than half of the lands acquired by the (conservative or zany/frivolous). Fund have so far been declared under the Wilderness The donation of suitable raffle items would Act. http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ be warmly welcomed.

OFF News Oct/Nov 2010

COMING EVENTS *Oct 25 th (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Robyn Stacey , speaking on Flora and Fauna That Shaped Australia’s Science and Culture. Robyn, a noteworthy Sydney based photographer will refer to the Herbarium Project at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney and the Macleay Museum collection, noting our th bizarre plants and animals attracting so many 19 century visitors to make the long sea voyage to see them. th *Oct 30 (Saturday) Field day to Cockatoo Island. Meet at the Oatley Station to catch the 9.13 am train th [4 carriage from the front], cross platform at Town Hall to Circular Quay. Catch the 10.13am ferry to Cockatoo Island. The leaders of the tour will have an audio machine to provide interesting details of the place and its history. The walk is reasonably level; the upper part of the island is approached by a good road with a sensible incline. Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Drinks, food available, or BYO.

Leaders: John Davoren ph 9029 4869, and Graham Austin ph 9579 2375. Nov 12 th ( Friday) 7 pm: Annual Dinner at South Hurstville R.S.L. Club, [details on page 1 above]. nd Nov 22 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Graham Fry and Liz Cameron speaking on Wildlife of Namibia and Northern Botswana.

Nov 26 th (Friday evening) Field day spotlighting in Oatley Park. Leader: Debbie Andrew

Dec 6 th (Monday afternoon) OFF Christmas Picnic. [Details next OFF News]

[*Please note several changes from the published program] TH FIELD DAY JIBBON HEAD, 10 OCTOBER OFF WEBSITE After a somewhat bumpy ride on the ferry to Oatley Flora and Fauna Society (O.F.F) was formed in Bundeena, eleven walkers set off around Jibbon Head. 1955 by local residents concerned about the The day was fine with a stiff wind near the coast. We vandalism of the flora and fauna in Oatley Park. Over saw some spring flowers and heard many New the years, its area of interest has expanded and the Holland honeyeaters. After a morning tea stop, we Society aims to stimulate interest in Australian flora continued along the cliff track with views over Port and fauna; foster an understanding of the need to Hacking to see the Aboriginal rock carvings. There conserve and protect the natural environment and to were about ten engravings of marine and land cooperate with other organisations in doing this. The animals, some quite large. After a leisurely lunch, we OFF website is an important vessel in carrying out its walked along Jibbon B each and through the streets of objectives and, in its recently revamped form is Bundeena to the ferry. [Report by walk leader: Janet Austin.] especially worth visiting at http://off.oatleypark.com/ . There BANDICOOTS, FIRE HAZARD REDUCTION are new sections on Myles Dunphy Reserve, Stream Ben Hope , technical officer with the National Parks Watch, Flying Foxes and photos and reports on OFF and Wildlife Service spoke at the last meeting. He activities. The site is getting many “hits” from students described the current studies of bandicoots, looking at doing environmental projects. OFF News will now be the effect that fire hazard reduction may have on them. published on the website, so the e-mail message to It seems clear that they are in danger from the back those who used to receive an e-mail copy will just burning intended to reduce the number and severity of remind them to open the website to get their copy. bush fires. However, the movement of the bandicoots, Briefly in and out of the area in question, and the apparent FF Committee OFF would like to hear from influence that nearby fires have on them make it O members who would be interested in standing difficult to assess just how endangered they are in the for the committee. areas under surveillance. embership fees For 2011 members can opt to LOWER GEORGES RIVER SUSTAINABILITY M pay their membership fee by direct bank Oatley Flora & Fauna has been successful in obtaining transfer – [more details when the renewal notice is a getting greener grant from Lower Georges River sent out]. The fee for 2011 will remain at $25 per family. Sustainability Initiative. In 2011, we will be sponsoring st Birds in Backyards workshops run by Birds Australia. lizabeth Farm Sunday 31 Oct 9am to 11.30am The workshops will be used to educate people on the E $55 Includes breakfast and tour importance of attracting smaller birds into their FF Christmas Picnic on 6 th December at the gardens as insect predators; this should reduce O Steamroller Park reliance on pesticides and make their gardens more sustainable. Workshop participants will receive a selection of plants and are eligible for a garden visit if they wish to learn more about landscaping for bird habitat. Bird walks in local bushland will also be offered, to demonstrate the kind of habitat that small birds like. The getting greener grant partnerships link a number of groups interested in sustainability. They include Oatley West Primary School, St George Migrant Resource Centre, Carss Park Community Gardens, Permaculture Sydney South, and the Menai Wildflower Group (which will be propagating plants for the project). Anyone interested in helping with the propagation or any other aspect of the project can contact Jason Cockayne ph. 9570 8559; mailto:[email protected] or Liz Cameron ph. 9580 6621; mailto:[email protected] . OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected] ; Hon. Editor: John Davoren

O.F.F. News Mar/April 2008

OFF website: http://off.oatleypark.com/ Issue 11/10 Nov/Dec 2010

BIODIVERSITY IN THE ILLAWARRA REGION SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS COAL THREAT The NSW Action Plan on Climate Change notes that BHP Billiton revealed that it had dropped plans for mining rising sea levels and extreme storm events are likely to in the Dharawal State Conservation Area just a day have a major impact on biodiversity in the Illawarra before a scathing review by NSW Planning Assessment region. Some low-lying coastal areas are at risk from Commission. PAC found that the mine would cause inundation, erosion, or saltwater intrusion into the water unacceptable damage to rivers and creeks in the area. It table, threatening ecosystems. Coastal freshwater stated that it is no longer a viable proposition for mining wetlands are likely to be affected by saltwater, existing to cause damage to pristine waterways in drinking water saline wetlands are likely to be substantially modified, catchments. BHP replied in the Illawarra Mercury that and mangroves are likely to colonise new areas. An while listening to community opposition, it intends further increase in fire frequency and intensity, high research and mining proposals. temperatures, dry spells and heavy downpours are also Sharyn Cullis, Secretary of Georges River Environmental likely to affect the biota to varying degrees. Alliance noted the large number of submissions of groups http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ and individuals [including OFF] opposing the undermining of the rivers. Sharyn added that most of the coalition of 500 YEARS OF TREE HISTORY groups opposing the undermining of Dharawal are now Tree rings of the snow gum are being used to build a writing to the Minister for the Environment to ask that it record of the Australian climate back 500 years. "It's be declared a National Park; and that further support ironic how snowy gums [ Eucalyptus pauciflora ] do not from OFF in this regard would be greatly appreciated. like snow," says Dr Matthew Brookhouse, spearheading the study at the Australian National University in TASMANIAN FORESTS Canberra. For that reason, he says, the tree is ideal for The Wilderness Society notes that environmentalists observing growth and seasonal change. For decades, have long been trying to protect Tasmania's ancient tree rings have been used as a kind of clock to indicate forests from destruction, and timber workers acted to the age of trees (even in fossils that are tens of protect their jobs. However, the Tasmanian timber thousands of years old). "Tree rings are typically not very industry is now apparently close to collapse, and after clear in Australia, but they are clear at the alpine tree line five months of constructive discussions, a Statement of in the snowy gum because the trees are so sensitive to Principles has been agreed upon by all sides, the temperature." http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/ conservation groups, timber communities, forest unions and the industry. Tasmania is now in a unique position to PESTICIDE INFORMATION create a sustainable timber industry, while protecting its The Environmental Defenders Office [EDO] has remaining native forests. http://www.wilderness.org.au/ published Getting the Drift , about the use of pesticides on QUEENSLAND WILD RIVERS the Northern Rivers. The book, written in conjunction with The Federal Opposition hesitated in seeking to overturn the National Toxics Network, is a guide for community members and in response to the large number of the Queensland Wild Rivers Act, saying it needed more time to think through the issues and to talk to Traditional inquiries the organisation receives about chemical Owners and landholders. Apparently, it was unconvinced sprays. The forestry, macadamia, sugarcane, and tea tree industries supplied information on which chemicals by the discussions and is moving against it once more. [Australian Nov 10 -http://www.wilderness.org.au/ ] were used on the Northern Rivers. A copy of the booklet can be downloaded free from the EDO website: BRITAIN BACK AMONG WOODLAND FOLK www.nsw.edo.org.au The Sunday Times [UK] reports that Britain’s tree cover is HURSTVILLE COUNCIL - BETTER PRACTICES now 11.8% of total land area. This is at its highest level Division of Local Government is attending the Council since about 1750 when the forests were replenished after meeting on 24 th Nov as part of its Promoting Better being grubbed out during the agricultural revolution. It Practices Review . Everyone is encouraged to attend. was also before they were denuded again for wood to make ships and charcoal for gunpowder in the OATLEY BOWLING CLUB - NOVEMBER 2010 Napoleonic wars. The growth is attributed to “new-born greens” and “tax breaks promising that money can grow on trees”. THE OFF AGM Note that our Annual General Meeting is on Monday 7th February 2011 followed by a social supper. Members with interesting photos are encouraged to bring and display them. 20-25 slides would probably be a good benchmark!

OFF News Nov/Dec 2010

COMING EVENTS nd Nov 22 (Monday) 7.45pm: Regular monthly meeting with Graham Fry and Liz Cameron speaking on Wildlife of Namibia and Northern Botswana. When we think of lions, elephants and zebras, we often think of Kenya and Tanzania but there is also impressive wildlife in less-well-known South-West Africa - in Namibia and Botswana. In addition to its rich savannah fauna, this region has stunning desert scenery, ancient rock carvings, and extensive riverine habitats. Graham and Liz will share their 2009 experiences of this remarkable part of Africa. Nov 26 th (Friday evening) Field day spotlighting in Oatley Park with Leader: Debbie Andrew Meet at 7:30 pm at the top gate at Oatley Park Avenue (Sunset is 7:46 pm). Bring a torch, binoculars, camera, warm jumper, mozzie repellent, [and raincoat if]. It will be dark by 8:30 pm; we expect to be out by 10:00pm. Dec 6th (Monday) OFF Picnic in the Park , This is our annual Christmas get-together . It will be at the “Steamroller Park” from 5.30pm. BYO food, drinks, picnic chairs, table etc. Barbecues may not be possible if there is any fire danger. For any queries, ring Liz Cameron 9580 6621 Feb 7th (Monday) 7.45pm Annual General Meeting with the election of officers, members photos and a social supper. th Feb 28 (Monday) 7.45pm Regular monthly meeting . FIELD DAY COCKATOO ISLAND OFF COMMITTEE MEMBERS - 2011 Twenty-one enthusiastic members joined the train and There are several vacancies in the present Committee, ferry to Cockatoo Island on 30th October and enjoyed with provision for 15 elected members. Committee meets the unfolding of the history and current plans for this monthly, usually on the Monday after the monthly largest of the Sydney Harbour islands. Its troubled meeting, attending to correspondence, financial matters, past as a punitive prison for difficult convicts was policies, and activities. If the idea of becoming a examined on the island’s upper level. While on the committee member appeals to you, please contact Liz lower, its role as a highly specialised shipbuilding and Cameron. repair facility, especially during the world wars, was LEAD A FIELD DAY? examined with interest. Everyone seemed to enjoy the If you have a favourite bushland or heritage walk up to day, the views of the surrounding suburbs, the passing 12km and are prepared to lead an O.F.F. outing, please yachts in the wild wind, and the social interaction. contact our Field Officer, Alison Gilroy, on 9580 5557. [Report by walk leader: John Davoren.] Alison is now preparing the program of field days for 2011 FLORA, FAUNA, SCIENCE, AND CULTURE and would like to hear from you. th This was the theme of Robin Stacey’s talk at the 25 OFF NEWS ON THE WEBSITE October meeting. Robin presented photographic OFF News is now published on the website, and those reproductions of the images of plants and animals formerly receiving an e-mail copy will just be reminded to collected in the early years of European settlement, by go to the website to read or download it. This month settlers and visitors to this country. The variety and however all members are receiving the newsletter by mail number of the collections showed a high level of with the notice about fee renewal. New members go to interest in the “new” flora and fauna. It is not surprising http://off.oatleypark.com/_documents/ that studies beginning with people like Joseph Banks, contributed significantly to both our science and Briefly culture. Joel Salatin "the world's most innovative farmer" COUNCIL TREE MANAGEMENT (TIME Magazine), is speaking at the Teachers Two OFF representatives are members of the Federation Conference Centre, Surry Hills, on 23 rd Hurstville Council’s Tree Management Working Party. Nov, 6:30pm. $15 entry, tickets on line or at the door At its recent meeting, the first for a while, it received a if not sold-out. http://tracking.involvecrm.com/ report on current tree management. There were 1197 new street trees and plants, 350 placed at Oatley West Picnic in the Park on Dec 6 [see above] Public School, 158 plants pruned, 318 privately owned Coastcare Week Dec 6-12 http://www.coastcare.com.au/ trees and 63 street trees removed. SNOWY MOUNTAINS 2011 THE OFF ANNUAL DINNER Fifty-four members attended the delightful evening We would like to know how many members might be interested in our organised by Alison Gilroy and Robin Dickson at the annual trip to Smiggins Chalet for a week, probably February 12 th to Hurstville Grove RSL. All very much enjoyed Trevor 19 th . [Costs are $102 double or twin share, $47 extra adult in room, Revis singing Cootamundra Wattle and Starry Starry $81 single, and $39 per child]. If you are thinking of going on this trip, Night, songs so in harmony with the spirit of the night. please contact Liz Cameron at the next OFF meeting, or on 9580 SILVER JUBILEE 1985 - 2010 6621 or Robin Dickson on 9580 5663. THE CONTINUING CURRICULUM DEBATE

OFF Hon. Secretary: Liz Cameron, P.O. Box 52 Mortdale 2223 Ph: 9580 6621 mailto:[email protected] ; Hon. Editor: John Davoren