Bush Heritage News Winter 2004

ABN 78 053 639 115 www.bushheritage.org In this issue Reedy Creek Reserve Brogo New Reedy Creek Reserve, Map of all reserves A gift of 452 hectares of remnant Headlands, beach dunes, stunning wetlands CDR planning workshop vegetation and coastal habitats in one and threatened vine forests, as well as Ethabuka of Queensland’s prime coastal zones loggerhead and green turtle nesting Species update will be the next Bush Heritage reserve. areas, will soon be under Bush Heritage The new Reedy Creek Reserve lies on management at the new Reedy Creek the coast adjacent to the Great Barrier Reserve near Agnes Waters.The threatened Reef Marine Park and on the northern Dunmall’s snake and beach stone-curlew edge of the Deepwater National Park. will then have a safe refuge.

Reedy Creek Reserve provides Bush Heritage with a unique opportunity to protect a remnant of quality habitat in one of the most expensive, intensely used and depleted natural environments along the eastern coastline of .

The property has come to Bush Heritage construction and landscape management under unusual circumstances.During the in each private lot, and in the common 1990s the Baevski family purchased property areas.Water and energy conservation around 600 hectares of land from a mining and reuse are a priority, and stringent company that had bought the property rules apply to waste management, the for possible sand mining. As part of use of endemic species in gardens, and their purchase agreement the Baevskis the introduction of pets. About fifteen persuaded the Queensland Government hectares, or around two per cent of the to ‘sterilise’ the mining exploration leases total land area, will be cleared for housing on this and other areas of land along and infrastructure. Most of the house a seven-kilometre stretch of coastline. sites have been sold.

Of the area purchased, a total of 148 hectares has been set aside by the Baevkis Clockwise from above: Green turtle. PHOTO: DUANE YATES/NATURE FOCUS for housing and common areas of native Sunrise Beach. Passionflower Passiflora sp. Broad-leafed paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia overhanging Deepwater vegetation.They have applied strict Creek. Littoral rainforest. PHOTOS: CARL MOLLER guidelines to vegetation clearing, site

1 The land adjoining the development has MANAGEMENT significant conservation values and has been given to Bush Heritage by Michael The control of fire, erosion, weeds and and Dellarose Baevski.The land is on feral animals will be the main management a separate, freehold title and will be tasks facing the new reserve manager. permanently owned and managed by Currently, foxes are estimated to eat 90 Bush Heritage – our seventeenth reserve. per cent of the turtle clutches that are laid in the breeding areas.The reserve manager will also be involved in educating An additional parcel of land has been gifted residents and visitors about the to the Aboriginal traditional owners and an environmental values of the reserve, and environmental education centre is planned, in liaising with the local community. for use by both visitors and residents. Funds will also be used to support a local voluntary group that works to protect Each homebuyer in the new development the shoreline habitat of the turtles that will pay a compulsory annual use the beach and adjacent dunes. environmental levy. For at least the next 25 years the levy will come to Bush VEGETATION Heritage to employ a reserve manager to care for the Reedy Creek Reserve Nine vegetation communities are known and common property areas on the at the site. Reedy Creek, and the pandanus- adjoining residential section. Bush lined wetlands fed by freshwater springs, Heritage will also manage much of the provide homes for an abundance of land down to the foreshore including birds, frogs and freshwater fish. Melaleuca the headland habitats, coastal dunes and forests, Corymbia woodlands and vine turtle-breeding areas.The total cost of forests protect a diversity of plants and managing Reedy Creek Reserve will be provide vital wildlife habitat.The rocky covered by this environmental levy, so headlands and the fore dune communities no donations will be required either to are breeding and foraging areas for many acquire or manage this new reserve. species including the turtles and migrant and local waders.

2 WILDLIFE area, is a model that could well be adopted in future residential developments. Fifteen species of mammals, 163 species of birds, six species of native frogs and 24 There will be many opportunities for species of reptiles have been recorded at cooperation and information-sharing the reserve so far.These include the between Bush Heritage, as a landowner, threatened Dunmall’s snake and beach and the new homebuyers, the shire stone-curlew, and the rare grey goshawk. council, the local indigenous people, the Greater gliders, squirrel and sugar gliders, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service as well as whiptail wallabies and the tiny and local voluntary conservation groups. ‘delicate mouse’, are protected in the new reserve. We look forward to taking on this wonderful new reserve and protecting Access to the beach for 4WD vehicles all its rare animals, birds and vegetation has been closed as part of the residential communities for the long term. plan and walking trails will provide access to all the beaches.This will greatly Facing page, clockwise from top: Red Rock Beach with pandanus enhance the future of those species that Pandanus pendunculatus. Jumping spider (Family: Salticidae). PHOTOS: CARL MOLLER Beach stone-curlew. PHOTO: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX depend on the beaches. Dunmall’s snake. PHOTO: ROBERT JENKINS/NATURE FOCUS Melaleuca quinquenervia open forest. PHOTO: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX While any coastal land development in This page, clockwise from top left: Banksia sp. Shield bug. this region is regrettable, Bush Heritage Grass trees Xanthorrhoea sp. Eastern dwarf tree frog. Red Rock Beach. PHOTOS: CARL MOLLER welcomes the opportunity to be able to Delicate mouse. PHOTO: G HOYLE/NATURE FOCUS protect and manage a significant area of habitat within a coastal region that is under intense pressure from housing and recreational use.The integration of new residential subdivisions and nature conservation, whereby the people who buy the blocks of land financially support the protection of an adjacent conservation

3 Impressions of Brogo Photographer Wayne Lawler visited of glossy leaves and Brogo Reserve in the Bega Valley of tangled vines. Small, strange New South Wales in June 2003 plants and miniature fungi grew among the mossy rocks, deep leaf litter There is no such thing as a casual stroll and coiling vines.A eastern yellow robin at Brogo Reserve.The land makes you observed me quietly from a metre away work to discover its secrets. Everywhere and an unseen wallaby thumped away seems either straight up or straight down! downhill. The reserve spans three forested ridges topped with domed granite outcrops I sat on a mossy log listening to a superb from which a hiker can look across deep lyrebird and a golden whistler competing fern gullies.The reserve then falls away to be the best songster in the gully, and through open grassy forest to the secluded thanked Bush Heritage for preserving Brogo River. this diverse and beautiful part of our natural heritage. The intimate sandy pools and murmuring Wayne Lawler, July 2003 riffles of the river are bordered by towering old river oaks (Casuarina sp.) that dip Clockwise from top: Brogo River. Forest red gum Eucalyptus their mossy roots into the clear water. tereticornus. Dawn fog in the Brogo River valley. This riparian oak forest is the only Rock fig Ficus rubiginosa. Fruit of the burrawang Macrozamia communis. Austral bluebell Wahlenbergia sp. example of its type reserved for conservation. Eastern yellow robin. PHOTOS: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX Many of the other forest types on the reserve, such as the wet shrub forest, are also among the last remnants in existence. Over 90 per cent of Australia’s dry rainforest has been cleared, and Brogo protects its most southerly extent.

Having walked through the sunny, ridge- top, dry grass forest with its huge forest red gums, drumming cicadas and busy thornbills, I headed to a granite outcrop to catch my breath and enjoy the view. Below I could see a shady grotto under an ancient, contorted rock fig (Ficus sp.). Intrigued, I entered into the cloistered world of the dry rainforest through a veil

4 Interested in work for Good Cause? underground or being nocturnal.The Good Cause works to raise the profile of Ethabuka heat and the drought had thus rendered the Australian Bush Heritage Fund and invisible those small mammals that first – a new era to increase its funding by recruiting donors drew our attention to Ethabuka. Dr Chris through face-to-face fundraising. Monthly Dickman and his team from Sydney Bush Heritage ecologist Murray donors are enrolled by highly trained University arrived five days after us and, Haseler was the first staff member Good Cause advocates who meet them despite the conditions, showed us the at Ethabuka Reserve at shopping centres and other public sandy inland mouse, ningaui and even venues, and at events. We arrived at Ethabuka Reserve on a mulgara.There was great enthusiasm 22 February 2004 after three long, hot amongst the researchers because their Join the Good Cause team to work in days of driving. I had fitted out two 4WDs work had now become central, rather regional New South Wales, or even in and was accompanied by past colleagues, than peripheral, to the management Perth, and help to protect Australia's unique zoologists Mike Mathieson and Luke Hogan, of the reserve.There was much talk of natural environment.You will work with who had eagerly offered to help drive the opportunities for future cooperation. passionate, committed people and receive vehicles to the reserve and have a look training that may be useful for your future around. Paul and Carol Spencer, the interim It appears, notwithstanding our humble career. Payment is by the hour plus bonuses. reserve managers who had arrived three arrival, that we will start work at this Full-time and part-time positions available. days earlier, were there to meet us. new reserve with an abundance of knowledge and goodwill from For more information call 1800 450 123 The late-afternoon temperature was still in researchers, neighbours and locals alike. or visit www.goodcause.com.au the high 40s as we pulled up, so we retreated to the old house for some respite only to Clockwise from top: Ethabuka homestead gate. Flat-topped mesas. PHOTOS: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX Volunteer rangers needed find it even hotter inside.The house had Sandy inland mouse. PHOTO: JIRI LOCHMAN/LOCHMAN TRANSPARENCIES not been lived in for years.Wind-driven red Spinifex plain. Ethabuka homestead. PHOTOS: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX Take some time out to help manage sand formed dunes across the linoleum and Mulgara. PHOTO: JIRI LOCHMAN/LOCHMAN TRANSPARENCIES some of the finest reserves in Australia. benches. Magnesium-rich waters had seized Shell midden on Hunter Island. Volunteer rangers are now needed for the taps but, as it turned out, not enough to Charles Darwin Reserve,WA (from May prevent us from getting the water we needed 2004),Tarcutta Hills Reserve, NSW to start the mammoth cleaning job. (from June 2004), and Carnarvon Station Reserve, Qld (in 2005).Work to be done Our first role was to sort out the house. includes site-cleaning, building repairs, The generator required some coaxing to goat-trapping, weed control and fencing. get going but it did eventually allow us to run the air cooler. However, the effort Please contact Joelle Medcalf was obviously too great for it. On the on 03 6223 2670 or email fourth day it burst into flames, the ice [email protected] melted, the food spoiled and tempers flared, as the house was still at 40º C at Hunter Island update 10 p.m.Then the windmill broke down. However, thanks to the resilience of Paul The Tasmanian Minister for Tourism, and Carol, the house will be a suitable Parks and Heritage has written stating habitat when the new reserve that the Government is unable to approve manager arrives in June. the transfer of the Hunter Island lease to Bush Heritage ‘at this stage’. Minister Most desert creatures Ken Bacon has invited Bush Heritage survive the extreme to be involved in further consultation. desert conditions Please refer to the Bush Heritage website by going for the Governments and Bush Heritages press releases.

5 Australian 3 Bush Heritage 16 7 Fund 12 17 reserves 11

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5 13 9 10 4

18 20 19

1,2 15 6,8 Bush Heritage Carnarvon Station Reserve, Qld. WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX

5 Kojonup Reserve, WA — purchased 1996 Current reserves The 389 ha Kojonup Reserve is an important remnant 1 Liffey River Reserve, Tas — purchased 1990 of wandoo woodland in south-west WA. It protects at This 105 ha of fern gully and rainforest lies beneath the least 81 species of native birds and three threatened Great Western Tiers on the edge of the World Heritage plant species. It has an intact understorey of herbs, Area. The wet forest is a haven for wildlife including heaths, sedges, orchids and other wildflowers. pygmy possums and Tasmanian devils. Management Management work 2003/04: salinity research and work 2003/04: development and maintenance of walking monitoring, fauna survey; rabbit control. Contributes tracks and interpretation, weed control. Contributes to to the protection of: one significant community and the protection of: one significant community and two seven species at risk. species at risk. 6 Friendly Beaches Reserve, Tas — purchased 1997 2 Drys Bluff Reserve, Tas — purchased 1990 Fringed by Saltwater Lagoon and the sand dunes of This reserve consists of 136 ha of dry sclerophyll forest, Friendly Beaches, this reserve protects 140 ha of coastal typical habitat for many endemic Tasmanian species. The heathland with dry sclerophyll forest, black gum and forest helps to support at least 60 bird species, including marsh-plant communities. Management work 2003/04: the threatened Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle. Management Phytophthora and vegetation monitoring. Contributes to work 2003/04: nothing required; regular monitoring the protection of: four significant communities and visits maintained. Contributes to the protection of: three species at risk. one significant community and two species at risk. 7 Goonderoo Reserve, Qld — purchased 1998 3 Fan Palm Reserve, Qld — purchased 1993 This 593 ha reserve contains nine distinct plant Lowland tropical rainforest is one of the most threatened communities including brigalow woodlands and native habitats in Australia. This 8.17 ha of fan palm forest grasslands, both of which are classified as endangered. adjacent to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area was It protects 142 bird species, at least ten species of snakes threatened by subdivision. It provides habitat for and a wide variety of other wildlife including sugar gliders cassowaries and threatened plant species. Management and koalas. Management work 2003/04: fencing, work 2003/04: fauna surveys, feral animal and weed erosion control, maintenance of firebreaks and roads, control. Contributes to the protection of: one house repairs, flora surveys, weed control. Contributes significant community and 20 species at risk. to the protection of: eight significant communities and seven species at risk. 4 Brogo Reserve, NSW – purchased 1995 At 120 ha, Brogo is one of the largest viable remnants 8 South Esk Pine Reserve, Tas — purchased 1998 of bushland in the Bega Valley in south-east NSW. It is a Located on the banks of the Apsley River on 's haven for native mammals and many bird species including east coast, this 6.8 ha reserve protects the last large sugar gliders, long-nosed bandicoots and powerful owls. stand of the South Esk pine. A Tasmanian endemic, the Management work 2003/04: fencing, track maintenance, pine is considered to be vulnerable, with only 10 000 weed control, bell miner monitoring. Contributes to trees remaining. Management work 2003/04: weed the protection of: four significant communities and control, vegetation monitoring. Contributes to the seven species at risk. protection of: one significant community and seven species at risk.

6 13 Chereninup Creek Reserve, WA — purchased 2002 Chereninup Creek Reserve protects 877 ha of floristically spectacular and globally important land in south-west WA. It is the most diverse of all Bush Heritage reserves. So far twelve major plant communities have been identified and the threatened malleefowl, western whipbird, tammar wallaby and western brushtail possum are protected here. Management work 2003/04: management plan completed, revegetation. Contributes to the protection of: at least four significant communities and four species at risk.

14 Charles Darwin Reserve (formerly White Wells Station), WA — purchased 2003 Protects 68 600 ha of york gum, salmon gum, gimlet, and sandplain vegetation in the WA wheat belt. Eleven regional ecosystems are represented. Rare and threatened plants are continually being discovered. The threatened malleefowl, declining woodland birds and small mammal species are safe here: Management work 2003/04: infrastructure improvement, site cleaning, weed and feral animal control, management planning. Contributes to the protection of: at least seven significant communities and fifteen species at risk.

15 Coalmine Creek, Tas — donated 2003 A gift from Dr Judy Henderson, this 20 ha block lies in the Liffey Valley and adjoins the Central Plateau World Heritage Area. It protects a mix of wet sclerophyll and rainforest species and abundant ferns. The threatened Tasmanian The state and national classifications for threatened communities wedge-tailed eagle and the white goshawk use the forest. and species change with time as our understanding of their true Management work 2003/04: management planning. conservation status improves. Bush Heritage will always use the latest assessments of status in reporting figures for threatened communities 16 Ethabuka, Qld — purchased 2004 and species on Bush Heritage reserves. Thus, reported figures may Ethabuka protects 213 300 ha of river flood plains, dune change from year to year. The terms used here are general and indicate systems, clay pans and an ephemeral and semi-permanent that the species or community is listed as threatened by state and/or wetland system of national significance. It has a remarkable commonwealth authorities. diversity of mammals, birds and reptiles, including the mulgara, woma, Australian bustard, yellow chat, chestnut quail-thrush and painted honeyeater, all listed as threatened. management work 2004: infrastructure 9 Tarcutta Hills Reserve, NSW — purchased 1999 improvements, initial surveys. contributes to the Tarcutta Hills is a 432 ha reserve of national significance. protection of: at least three significant communities and It protects the largest area of grassy whitebox woodland seven species at risk. left in Australia and enjoys an unusual richness of species. It provides habitat for the nationally threatened 17 Reedy Creek Reserve, Qld — donated 2004 turquoise and swift parrots. Management work Protects 452 hectares in one of the most intensely used 2003/04: fencing maintenance, bird surveys, feral animal and depleted natural environments in eastern Australia. surveys and control, cabin improvements, weed control; Nine vegetation communities including pandanus-lined solar power installed. Contributes to the wetlands, Melaleuca forests, Corymbia woodlands and protection of: one significant community and thirteen threatened vine forests are safeguarded. Bush Heritage species at risk. will also manage loggerhead and green turtle breeding areas on the adjacent beaches. Threatened Dunmall’s snake and beach stone-curlews will have a safe refuge 10 Burrin Burrin Reserve, NSW — donated 1999 here. Contributes to the protection of: at least one This reserve protects 411 ha of escarpment forest in significant community and five species at risk. the upper reaches of the Shoalhaven River catchment. It provides habitat for sugar and squirrel gliders and Prospective reserves brushtail and ringtail possums. Management work 2003/04: track maintenance. Contributes to the 18 Hunter Island — lease awaiting transfer protection of: three significant communities. Hunter Island supports six ecological communities that are of conservation significance including the last remnants of white gum woodland in the bioregion. It is a vital staging 11 Currumbin Valley Reserve, Qld — donated 1999 point for the migrating, critically-endangered orange- Although only 4 ha, this regenerating rainforest reserve bellied parrots and has the highest known density of is highly diverse. Together with the adjoining Nicholl breeding white-bellied sea eagles. A threatened orchid Scrub National Park, the reserve contributes to the will also be protected here. Contributes to protection of: protection of a significant area of habitat. Management six significant communities and fourteen species at risk. work 2003/04: memorial garden maintenance. Contributes to the protection of: seven species at risk. Past reserves 19 , — lease purchased 1999, 12 Carnarvon Station Reserve, Qld — purchased 2001 relinquished 2000 The 59 000 ha Carnarvon Station Reserve adjoins Deal Island was held briefly by Bush Heritage and was National Park. It protects seventeen returned to the Tasmanian Government in 2000 for regional ecosystems, six of which are endangered. inclusion in the proposed National Park. So far 93 bird species and seventeen native mammal 20 , Bass Strait — lease purchased 1997, species have been recorded. Management work relinquished 2002 2003/04: fencing, fuel-reduction burning, vegetation Erith Island is rich in flora classified as rare in Tasmania. mapping, fauna surveys, building repairs, infrastructure In July 2002 the Erith Island lease was returned to the development, feral animal control, weed control. Tasmanian Government to facilitate the declaration of Contributes to the protection of: six significant the Kent Group National Park, which includes Erith, communities and thirteen species at risk. Dover and Deal islands.

7 broke the drought, replaced the pergola Charles Darwin Reserve one year on ripped off by a mini tornado and patched the holes that it punched in the roof on After just one year as a Bush Heritage We arrived during one of the worst its way past. reserve the Charles Darwin Reserve droughts in 100 years. Fire had burnt in south-west Western Australia has large areas of the reserve before Bush FERAL ANIMALS come a long way. Drought, baking Heritage purchased the property, so we heat, flood and tempest, as well as were well aware of the significant threat Since December 2003 nearly 200 goats many notable events involving goats, that it posed. Fire, foxes, goats, cats, weeds have been taken off the reserve.We could have kept reserve manager Leigh and rubbish were going to dominate tell many goat stories with a similar theme Whisson and his wife Jackie Courtenay our thinking for much of this first year. – of escape through rotting fences, wondering what will happen next The stunning displays of wildflowers and reherding of runaways, dust, 400-plus, the company of many visitors would be and sweaty, cursing reserve staff. Bush Heritage purchased this 68600 welcome diversions. Improved fencing, as well as catching hectare property on the northern edge pens and herding races with higher of the West Australian wheat belt in INFRASTRUCTURE fences, will gradually change the flavour January 2003. It protects one of the last of the tales. large remnants of the ancient woodlands, The infrastructure at Charles Darwin and heath and wildflower-covered sand Reserve was time-weary and badly Twenty-six rabbits, twelve foxes and two plains, in southern Western Australia.The neglected. Unlike the house, which feral cats have been shot. Conservation property is of great conservation significance volunteer extraordinaire Don Royal and Land Management scientists have and international importance, particularly and his band of helpers had refurbished recently conducted a fox-baiting trial to for its vegetation communities and flora. before we arrived (Bush Heritage News, test different bait attractants.Their tally Winter 2003), everything else broke from eleven nights’ work was 58 foxes. down repeatedly, soaking up time and A three-monthly, broad-scale baiting testing our patience.The natural disasters program will commence in May 2004. just added extra colour to our lives. WEEDS Now, a year later, we hope Monger’s Well windmill has been conquered.The Weeds have been mapped, mostly by generator, the electrics and the plumbing volunteer Annette Stewart with help will be next.A new solar power system, from Don and Betty Woods.Annette new wiring and septic tank (that is lower found the weeds restricted to disturbed than the toilet) are planned.We have dried areas (except at two sites) and less than everything out after the flood which one per cent of the reserve affected.

8 Forty species were identified with only six being of major concern. Many volunteer hours have already been spent working to eradicate them.

RUBBISH

The reserve came with a double dose of detritus from many years of human use and neglect.The clean-up has begun but the rubbish is of epic proportions. Helped by dedicated volunteers we have already dispatched thirty-six 2 m x 4 m caged trailer-loads of rubbish from just around the homestead. Many tonnes will need to be removed before the job is complete, as the ‘dump’ extends over hectares of the bush.A detailed waste- management strategy is guiding the grown to 89 species, with good sightings clean-up and the recycling of as much of threatened malleefowl.The invertebrate as possible. Only the reptiles, which fauna is extremely rich and varied. value discarded tin as homes, will be disappointed to see the last of it go. FIRE

NEW SPECIES Earlier this year, a workshop on fire management at the reserve (see Page 10) Chance meetings with unusual wildlife set in motion the preparation of the and the discovery of new species for the fire management plan, and the reserve reserve have been highlights. Detailed now has fire-fighting equipment and plant and animal surveys are not yet a water unit for the vehicle.The reserve under way but in one week Sue Patrick management plan, which will guide the of the West Australian Herbarium discovered management actions over the next five 58 new plants for the reserve including years, is also under way. two new ‘priority’ plants. She found a few species that were either atypical forms, We would like to thank the 38 volunteers or constituted range extensions or were who have so far contributed 296 days of possibly undescribed.The reserve is a new their time to help care for the reserve. location for one Priority 1 species that This has meant a saving to Bush Heritage was previously known from only two sites. of over $53 000 in labour costs. Charles Darwin Reserve is now the only protected site at which it is found. Our Facing page, clockwise from top: Wildflowers following fire. PHOTO: LEIGH WHISSON Many goats have been removed ‘reserve herbarium’ is expanding rapidly. from the reserve. PHOTO: JIRI AND MARIE LOCHMAN/LOCHMAN TRANSPARENCIES Banded plover eggs. House block after the floods. PHOTOS: LEIGH WHISSON Lambs tail Lachnostachys sp. The list of wildlife grows.We have added PHOTO: JIRI AND MARIE LOCHMAN/LOCHMAN TRANSPARENCIES three bat species to the list during the This page, clockwise from top: Feral nanny and kids find past year, and two reptile and two frog respite from the heat in the shower shed. The storm that broke the flood. Water rushing through the house block. species since February.The bird list has Yellow sun orchid Thelymitra sp. PHOTOS: LEIGH WHISSON

9 Species UPDATE Charles Darwin Reserve planning workshop

Bush Heritage landscape ecologist change the grazing pressure, impact Phil Cullen reports severely on seed resources and even alter fire regimes. Bush Heritage recently brought together Western Australia’s leading ecologists, Our special thanks to all the participants natural historians and land managers, and for their invaluable contributions and some of our neighbours and staff, to engage time.They include mining/environmental in a few days’ discussion and conservation negotiator Frank Batini;Ashley and Dru planning for the Charles Darwin Reserve. Bell, our neighbours to the north; David Enticing these busy people was not as Blood from CALM (Conservation and PHOTO: WAYNE LAWLER/ECOPIX difficult as I expected. I made them an Land Management); fire management offer they could not refuse: a trip to the consultant Klaus Braun; Doug Bright, Common name: Loggerhead turtle reserve at the height of the wildflower neighbour and owner of Mt Gibson season, starlit dining with splendid Indian Gold; Jackie Courtenay from Charles Scientific name: Caretta caretta cuisine, and a trip every afternoon to Darwin Reserve; consultant Peter Curry; show off the wonders of the property. fauna specialist John Dell; local environmental Conservation status: expert Charlie Nicholson; Sue Patrick Endangered: internationally, nationally, Our primary aim was to gather information from the West Australian Herbarium; – NT, Qld, NSW, Tas. and ideas for the reserve management Hugh Pringle and Peter Waddell from Vulnerable: SA plan but we had a couple of other the Department of Agriculture; Jim Rare: WA important items on the agenda.We wanted Underwood, Manager of Mt Gibson (an our neighbours to join us, not only because Australian Wildlife Conservancy reserve); Loggerhead turtles are found predominantly of their invaluable local knowledge, but and Margi Weir from Greening Australia. in the tropical and warm temperate waters of also so that we could propose a more the world. They are among the biggest of the regional approach to managing the land marine turtles. Their carnivorous lifestyle is for conservation.We were also testing From top: Wildflowers after the fire. The workshop under a planning program developed by The way. ‘Botanising’ in the ironstone country. PHOTOS: PHIL CULLEN reflected in their large heads and strong jaws. Nature Conservancy in the United They eat molluscs, crabs, sea urchins, sponges States.This program gave us a framework and jellyfish. Females lay an average of 100 for setting priorities and getting the best eggs per clutch in a shallow scrape in the sand. conservation outcomes with few resources. It worked brilliantly, keeping us focused The species is endangered around the world. on the critical issues while allowing the Adult loggerheads are killed by hunters and as expertise of each delegate to build detail a result of fishing activities. Eggs and hatchlings into the framework.We were also delighted are poached and killed by predators. Breeding when our neighbours to the north is often disrupted by coastal development and suggested a plan to reduce grazing on human activities on beaches. Feeding habitats an area near the boundary of our two such as seagrass beds have been damaged or properties that is of special significance destroyed as a result of sedimentation, nutrient for plants. run-off, insensitive tourist development and Bush Heritage staff gained many insights destructive fishing techniques. The turtle into the workings of the semi-arid breeding area next to Reedy Creek Reserve woodland and shrubland ecosystems that will now be managed by Bush Heritage. occur on the property.We learnt just how fragile many of these systems are. For example, a poorly sited or constructed track can cause drought stress across many thousands of hectares of bush by disrupting the surface flow of water after heavy rainfall.An artificial watering point can lead to dramatic changes in the diversity of fauna over areas of many square kilometres, which in turn can

10 part of a residential development will In memory From the CEO be adopted by others.We also thank Ian Hodgetts at Allens Arthur Robinson, our Bush Heritage’s central purpose is to buy Donations in memory of Gay Bell were pro bono legal firm, for his exhaustive back threatened land and water of high received from Maureen Ryan, S Thomas and discussions to ensure that Bush Heritage’s conservation value and manage it for Nyrie Elcock. Jean Stokes was remembered interests were protected. conservation. Our reserves are not islands by Joan and Robert Boyd. Family and many in the surrounding terrain but a part of friends gave in memory of James Gilmore. On another note, following the signing Carl Martens donated for Carel Anton the broader landscape or seascape.Thus it of a memorandum of understanding is vitally important that we are a positive Vogelsang and Fiona Haddock in memory with the Indigenous Land Corporation of her friend Sidah's father Robert Russell. influence for the natural environment last year, members of the Bidjara people beyond our reserve boundaries. from visited Sara Phillips and Phil, Ruth, Seb and kids Carnarvon Station Reserve. It was the donated for Dave Gardener,‘in memory Neighbours, locals, reserve visitors and first visit in over 30 years for some.With of the laughter we shared with him and to volunteers are all part of our ‘beyond the their permission we were delighted to celebrate his love of life’. Marilyn and Ken boundaries’ network. Our neighbours, view some of the astonishing paintings Zakrevsky gave for John Robert Wilson, and the uses to which they put their and petroglyphs at Carnarvon and ‘a great bloke’. land, are diverse.They include rural and to have these interpreted for us by residential allotment owners, the national representatives of the Bidjara people. Joan Payne remembered her ‘wonderful parks services, pastoralists, agriculturalists We were subsequently invited to visit mother Dena Dove’ and Neville Goss and tourism operators, to name a few. a nearby Bidjara property and hope to his aunt Con Jarmyn,‘a dear aunt and We are working to build with them provide advice on the environmental a country girl’. Caroline Davis donated inclusive and enduring relationships management of remnant bushland there. in memory of her sister Diana. that will enhance habitat and wildlife Traditional owners have also recently Kate and Mark Calabretta celebrated the conservation in their region. visited Charles Darwin Reserve in Western memories of aunt Elizabeth Ryle,‘a gardener Australia to assess the cultural sites on the and lover of all things green, Irish and The gift of land at Agnes Waters on the property.We need the involvement of the Australian’, and aunt Nuala O'Sullivan,‘her Queensland coast – from Michael and indigenous communities to ensure that fondly remembered and greatly missed sister’. Dellarose Baevski – gives us another such their cultural heritage sites on our reserves opportunity in the globally significant are adequately maintained and protected. Great Barrier Reef Marine Park seascape, In celebration one of the most important and biologically With this positive news it is unfortunate diverse places on the planet. Bush Heritage that I have to report that the Tasmanian Bush Heritage received many donations will be managing its seventeenth reserve Minister for Tourism, Parks and Heritage to celebrate the 60th birthday of Dick here, as well as the areas of native bush Ken Bacon has written stating that the Smith. Many friends and family celebrated that are part of the ‘common property’ Government is unable to approve the the combined 50th birthdays and 25th areas in the neighbouring residential transfer of the Hunter Island lease to wedding anniversary of Ian and Jacqui development.We will be working closely Bush Heritage ‘at this stage’.We have Ralph. Judith Ambler donated as ‘birthday with this new community and our role a contract to buy the lease on the island wishes for Jenny Hill 12 Feb’. Roger and will be a positive one, will be free and it should be a standard commercial Anne Barsony remembered the 50th birthdays of conditions and will provide real property transaction.The contract still of Ter r y Mawer and Barry Paff. conservation benefits. stands.The Government has invited us The Lane Cove Bush Regeneration to be involved in further consultation Cooperative sent a gift to honour Sheila We thank the Baevskis for selecting Bush on the island. Walherden on her retirement after years Heritage to receive this generous gift of service to the bush. of land and for their extensive planning. We hope that their innovative idea of Jean Edgecombe donated ‘as a special tribute making nature conservation an integral to Colin Watson in recognition and appreciation of almost 50 years dedicated to the conservation and care of outstanding Thanks natural areas’. Jean Edgecombe has herself been honoured by Christine and Craig Bush Heritage gratefully acknowledges Austin to celebrate her 90th birthday and Paddy Pallin Pty Ltd for generous as someone who has ‘dedicated her life to support in the supply of equipment. conservation and the service of others’. Happy birthday, Jean, from all at Bush Heritage. Bush Heritage would also like to thank framer Luke Wagner for his generosity and help in framing pictures.

Red Rock Beach, Agnes Waters. PHOTO: CARL MOLLER 11 Getting involved FIELD DAYS 2004 Come on guided visits to some of our reserves

VISIT THE RESERVES and learn about these special areas. Places are Annapurna. PHOTO: RICHARD SMALL You can experience for yourself the wonderful limited so please register your interest soon. diversity of landscapes and ecosystems that you have helped to protect. August: Charles Darwin Reserve,WA, Book now for Nepal field weekend, Saturday 28 to Sunday 29. and Tibet At Carnarvon Station Reserve, Qld, you can September: Tarcutta Hills Reserve, NSW, spend up to a week camping and exploring. field weekend, Saturday 11 to Sunday 12; World Expeditions is offering two great The Charles Darwin Reserve,WA, should be Chereninup Creek Reserve,WA, field adventures exclusively to Bush Heritage open to campers in April 2005 and Ethabuka weekend, Saturday 18 to Sunday 19; supporters and at a sizeable discount. Reserve, Qld, in mid-2005. At all reserves we Charles Darwin Reserve,WA, field weekend, ask that you ‘leave only footprints and take Bush Heritage will receive a generous Saturday 25 to Sunday 26; donation for every participant. only photos’. November: Liffey River Reserve,Tas, field To camp or go on unguided visits please weekend, Saturday 20 to Sunday 21. Trekking in Nepal contact Karen Harrland with any enquiries Departs 13 November 2004, returns 1 December. or to book for the reserves. For information on attending field trips, Includes a nine-day trek with stunning or to RSVP,please contact Kalina Koloff mountains, traditional villages and famous Please phone 1800 677 101 or email on 02 9264 3377, fax 02 9264 0811 rhododendron forests, plus Kathmandu and to [email protected] or email [email protected] a three-day wildlife safari with elephant-back excursions. Cost is $3870*, a saving of $865. Reserve State Camping Unaccompanied Field trips available access for 2004 This includes $700 to Bush Heritage. Liffey River Tas ✘✔Nov 20-21 Tibet - the high road to Lhasa South Esk Pine Tas ✘✔✘(non-trekking) Departs 18 September 2004, returns 4 October. Friendly Beaches Tas ✘ Restricted to lagoon area ✘ A special seventeen-day journey including two Coalmine Creek Tas ✘✘✘ days in Kathmandu, three days in Lhasa, then Drys Bluff Tas ✘✘✘ ✔✘an eight-day road journey across the dramatic Carnarvon Station Qld Booking required Tibetan Plateau and through the snow-capped ✘✔✘ Currumbin Valley Qld peaks of the Himalaya.Visit the Potala Palace ✘ Ethabuka Qld Planned for 2005 Planned for 2005 and the Rongphu Monastery at the north face ✘✔✘ Fan Palm Qld of Mt Everest, sights you will never forget. Goonderoo Qld ✘✘✘Cost is $5295*, a saving of $500.This includes Brogo NSW ✘✔✘$600 to Bush Heritage. Burrin Burrin NSW ✘✘✘ Tarcutta Hills NSW ✘✘Sept 11-12 For full details, enquiries and bookings contact Charles Darwin WA Planned for April 2005 Planned for Aug 28-29 World Expeditions, Melbourne. Ph: 03 8631 3300 Booking required April 2005 Sept 25-26 or email [email protected] ✘✔ Chereninup Creek WA Sept 18-19 * Includes airfares and most meals.Air taxes, visa and insurance costs Kojonup WA ✘✔✘not included. Price assumes departure from Sydney or Melbourne. Reedy Creek Qld ✘✘✘ Printed on combination 50% recycled and 50% plantation fibre. ✂ Return to: Australian Bush Heritage Fund, Reply Paid 101, Hobart TAS 7001 buying back Freecall: 1800 677 101 Fax: 03 6223 2680 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bushheritage.org Office address: 2 Kelly Street Battery Point TAS 7004 Phone: 03 6223 2670 the bush Australian Bush Heritage Fund is a company limited by guarantee ABN 78 053 639 115

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