ANNUAL REPORT 2013–2014

Wet Tropics Management Authority ANNUAL REPORT 2013-2014 Purpose of the report This annual report details the fi nancial and non-fi nancial performance of the Wet Tropics Management Authority from 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014. It highlights the work, achievements, activities and strategic initiatives of the Authority, and satisfi es the requirements of Queensland’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993 and Financial Accountability Act 2009; and the Commonwealth’s Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Conservation Act 1994. Feedback The annual report is an important document representing communication and accountability. The Authority values comments and welcomes feedback from readers. Public availability This publication can be accessed and downloaded from our website at www.wettropics.gov.au Alternatively, hard copies of this publication can be obtained by emailing [email protected]

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Copyright © Wet Tropics Management Authority 2014 Licence

This report is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) 3.0 Australia licence. CC BY Licence summary statement In essence, you are free to copy, communicate and adapt this annual report, as long as you attribute the work to the Wet Tropics Management Authority. To view a copy of this licence, visit www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en Attribution Content from this annual report should be attributed as: Wet Tropics Management Authority Annual Report 2013-14. Disclaimer This document has been prepared with all due diligence and care, based on the best available information at the time of publication. The Authority holds no responsibility for any errors or omissions within this document. Any decisions made by other parties based on this document are solely the responsibility of those parties. Further information Wet Tropics Management Authority PO Box 2050 Cairns QLD 4870 Phone: (07) 4241 0555 [email protected] ISSN 978-1-921591-71-6 This report is printed on Monza Satin 55% Recycled, FSC® Mix Sources product group from well-managed forests, controlled sources and recycled wood or fi ber. www.fsc.org Contents

Highlights from the Executive Director 1 Our Organisation 5 Administration of the Act 7 2013-2018 Strategic Plan Goals 13 Terms and Abbreviations 45

27 September 2014

The Honourable Greg Hunt MP Minister for the Environment PO Box 6022 House of Representatives Parliament House CANBERRA ACT 2600

Dear Minister,

I am pleased to present the Annual Report 2013-2014 for the Wet Tropics Management Authority.

Under the Wet Tropics World Heritage Conservation Act 1994, section 10 (1) ‘annual report’ means a report given to the Australian Government under section 63 of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993 (Qld).

Section 10 (2) requires you, as the Minister, to cause a copy of the annual report to be laid before each House of Parliament within 15 sitting days after the report is given to the Australian Government.

In submitting this report to you today the Authority is fulfi lling its responsibilities under Australian Government legislation.

Yours sincerely

Andrew Maclean Executive Director

Highlights from the Executive Director

The ninth of December, 2013 marked the The Authority has diverse roles in 25th anniversary of the inscription of the support of the Wet Tropics community. Wet Tropics of Queensland on the World As well as ensuring protection through Heritage List. administration of the statutory Wet Tropics Management Plan 1998, the Authority Internationally recognised for its rich builds partnerships with the community, biodiversity; as an exemplar of the earth’s Rainforest Aboriginal people, researchers, evolutionary history; as habitat for the tourism industry and with government numerous rare and endemic species; and departments and agencies to advance for its spectacular landscapes, the Wet the conservation, presentation and Tropics World Heritage Area makes an transmission to future generations of the extraordinarily important contribution to Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. nature conservation in Australia on behalf of the global community. 2013-14 represents another year of achievement for the Authority and its It is also important to acknowledge that partners in World Heritage management. the Indigenous cultural values of the Wet Some highlights of the year are summa- Tropics have been included in Australia’s rised below. National Heritage list. The Authority pays its respects to the Rainforest Aboriginal Wet Tropics vegetation mapping people as the traditional custodians of this The Authority fi nalised a major program important landscape and in particular to of mapping the native vegetation of the elders past and present. Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the wider Wet Tropics bioregion. The mapping The Wet Tropics Management Authority is the culmination of over eight years of was established to assist the Australian and research and development and is the most Queensland Governments to fulfi l Austral- comprehensive vegetation mapping ever ia’s obligations under the World Heritage undertaken in the region. The maps and Convention in relation to the Wet Tropics. associated descriptive information are The Authority is jointly accountable to the available on a credit card-sized USB stick; Australian and Queensland environment as PDF fi les on the Authority’s website or and heritage ministers. on-line through a link on the Authority’s website to the e-atlas. Launched on 6 December 2013 by Professor Darren Crayn, Director of the Australian Tropical Herbarium, this product made a very appropriate contribution to the 25th anniversary celebration of the listing of the Wet Tropics.

1 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Repairing the Rainforest The Authority played an active role in Also launched on 6 December 2013 to governance of the NERP Tropical Eco- coincide with the 25th anniversary of systems hub, valuing the opportunity to listing was the second edition of Repairing infl uence research priorities and facilitate the Rainforest by Dr Steve Goosem and communications. Ensuring an appropriate Mr Nigel Tucker. This volume captures investment into rainforest research from and communicates the experience and NERP’s successor program will remain a expertise developed in the region in high priority for the Authority. relation to rainforest restoration. It updates the highly popular 1995 fi rst edition that Wet Tropics tourism has had infl uence far beyond the Wet Tourism ventures based on the Wet Tropics Tropics, guiding rainforest restoration World Heritage Area make an enormously projects as far away as South East Asia. important contribution to the economy The authority provided copies of the book of Far North Queensland. As well as to community revegetation and catchment benefi ting economically from the World management groups that have sold them Heritage Area, the tourism industry is a to raise funds for community projects. vital partner in the presentation of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area - a duty Research partnerships of State parties under the World Heritage Knowledge based on high-quality research convention. is the principal currency of the Authority’s work. The Authority was delighted to invite The Authority’s Tour Guide Programs, James Cook University Vice Chancellor, developed and delivered in partnership Professor Sandra Harding to launch the with Savannah Guides, ensures World Authority’s learning landscape initiative. Heritage tour guides have the knowledge Coinciding with the launch was the and skills to deliver world class interpretive publication of a learning landscapes experiences. Supported by a Common- brochure that highlights past research wealth grant under the TQUAL program, achievements and the contributions the training and associated workshops research has made to management in the have strong support within the industry. Wet Tropics. The brochure summarises The Authority is particularly gratifi ed at the research priorities of the Wet Tropics the signifi cant interest shown by Rainforest Research Strategy and is an important Aboriginal tour guides. communication tool in securing continued The Authority has continued to provide research investment in the Wet Tropics. leadership in the nature-based tourism Consistent with its knowledge-brokering sector in the Wet Tropics as a participant in role, the Authority was pleased to secure the National Landscapes program. Jointly a grant from the National Environment administered by the Director of National Research Program (NERP) to assist in link- Parks and Tourism Australia, the program ing NERP funded rainforest research with aims to build partnerships between tour- rainforest land managers, infrastructure ism and conservation in highlighting the providers and other current and potential best of the best of Australia’s nature-based research users. The project, delivered in tourism experiences. The Authority was partnership with the Wet Tropics Scientifi c pleased to accept on behalf of Wet Advisory Committee and research institu- Tropics tourism industry and conservation tions focuses on Queensland government partners the program’s outstanding departments and agencies. achievement Award for 2013.

2 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Yellow crazy ant eradication that the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area Based on observations of its impacts generates in excess of $400 of economic elsewhere, the Authority is gravely activity for every dollar of combined concerned at the risk an infestation of the Commonwealth and State management exotic pest, the yellow crazy ant poses for spending. the Outstanding Universal Value of the Wet Tropics. In 2013, the Authority secured Queensland World Heritage Review a $2M grant from the Australian govern- In March 2014, the Queensland Minister ment to support an eradication project for Environment and Heritage Protection targeting an infestation of ants on the announced a review of management boundary of the World Heritage Area near arrangements for Queensland’s terrestrial Cairns. The Authority has built an extensive World Heritage properties, including network of collaborators in the community, the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. with state and local government agencies In announcing the review, the Minister and with research institutions to establish said that, “what is required is a more a major program of survey, baiting and consistent model of management where monitoring that will extend over four we improve, simplify and maximise the years. The fi rst of nine rounds of aerial and protection of the state’s World Heritage land-based baiting commenced in the fi rst Areas.” A delegation of Wet Tropics board half of 2014. directors and representatives of the Authority’s advisory committees joined Funding their counterparts from the Australia Fossil In late 2013, the Commonwealth Minister Mammal Sites (Riversleigh), Fraser Island for the Environment, The Honourable and the Gondwana Rainforest of Australia Greg Hunt MP, demonstrated continuing properties at a workshop in late March support for the Wet Tropics World 2014 that discussed issues and options for Heritage Area and the role of the Authority change. through the provision of a further fi ve years of baseline World Heritage funding Board of directors ($13.4M over fi ve years). The Queensland Division 2 of the Wet Tropics World Government, through the Honourable Heritage Protection and Management Act Andrew Powell MP, Minister for Environ- 1993 (the Queensland Act) establishes ment and Heritage Protection has also the Board of Directors for the Wet Tropics continued its funding support for the Wet Management Authority. Directors are Tropics ($1.8M/year). appointed by the Queensland Governor in Council upon the nomination of the The Authority and its partners and Commonwealth and Queensland. Follow- community stakeholders are grateful for ing the retirement of former chairperson, this outcome, which provides an essential Associate Professor Peter Valentine and platform for further partnership and directors Cr Julia Leu and Dr Alastair Birtles project development in support of the in the fi rst half of 2013, it was not possible World Heritage Area and its communities. to achieve the quorum defi ned by the These very welcome allocations need to Queensland Act. As a result no Board be considered in the context of the overall meetings were convened during 2013-14. economic contribution of the Wet Tropics However, the two remaining directors, World Heritage Area. Data presented in Dr Rosemary Hill and Ms Leah Talbot an economic analysis of Australia’s World continued to play an active and valuable Heritage Areas in 2008 demonstrated role in support of the Authority.

3 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Advisory committees infrastructure providers making positive Section 40 of the Act requires the choices about design and maintenance Authority to establish a Scientifi c Advisory that protect rainforest values; tour guides Committee and Community Consultative and the volunteers in information centres Committee. These committees are who share their knowledge with visitors; appointed by the Authority’s Board. the international volunteers working at the The three year term of appointment of Authority and with its partners; and the both committees ended in early 2014. hard-working staff of numerous state, local The Authority is very grateful for the and commonwealth government agency leadership, advice and support provided partners, in particular the rangers in the by these committees over the past three Department of National Parks, Recreation, years. Sport and Racing.

Partnerships It is important that I also acknowledge and thank the dedicated staff of the Achieving the objectives of the World Authority itself for their efforts. Without Heritage Convention in the Wet Tropics the collective effort and support of all of would be entirely impossible without these people, many anonymous but all of the support and collaboration of a them appreciated, Australia’s pride in the huge network of partners in community, Wet Tropics of Queensland would be much industry and government. Examples diminished. include the schoolchildren who contributed their rainforest artwork to the Australian Tourism Exchange Wet Tropics poster competition; community volunteers restoring rainforests through revegetation and pest control activities; Andrew Maclean Rainforest Aboriginal people working Executive Director to preserve and pass on their cultural heritage; researchers building knowledge about the Area and its management;

4 Our Organisation

World Heritage and National • be an outstanding example representing Heritage listing signifi cant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution The World Heritage List includes 1007 and development of terrestrial, fresh properties forming part of the cultural water, coastal and marine ecosystems and natural heritage which the World and communities of plants and animals - Heritage Committee considers as having Criterion (ix) Outstanding Universal Value. These include 779 cultural, 197 natural and 31 mixed • contain the most important signifi cant properties in 161 State Parties. natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those As of 30 June 2014, 191 State Parties have containing threatened species of ratifi ed the World Heritage Convention. outstanding universal value from the Australia became a signatory in 1974 and point of view of science or conservation at 30 June 2014 there were 19 Australian - Criterion (x). properties on the World Heritage List. World Heritage listing is recognition by In May 2007 the Area was also listed on the international community that a place Australia’s National Heritage List. The Area is such an outstanding example of the was listed for the fi ve National Heritage world’s natural or cultural heritage that its criteria that correspond to its World conservation is of value to all people. Heritage (natural) criteria. The National Heritage criteria include: The Wet Tropics of Queensland World • the place’s importance in the course, or Heritage Area (‘the World Heritage Area’ pattern, of Australia’s natural or cultural or ‘the Area’) has outstanding natural history - Criterion (a) values, meeting all four natural criteria for World Heritage listing and fulfi lling the • the place’s possession of uncommon, necessary conditions of integrity. The Wet rare or endangered aspects of Australia’s Tropics of Queensland is considered to: natural or cultural history - Criterion (b) • the place’s potential to yield information • contain superlative natural phenomena that will contribute to an understanding or areas of exceptional natural beauty of Australia’s natural or cultural history - and aesthetic importance - Criterion (vii) Criterion (c) • be an outstanding example representing the major stages of Earth’s history, including the record of life, and signif- icant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or signifi cant geomorphic or physiographic features - Criterion (viii)

5 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

• the place’s importance in demonstrating National Heritage listing provides the principal characteristics of (i) a class protection under the Environment of Australia’s natural or cultural places; Protection and Biodiversity Conservation or (ii) a class of Australia’s natural or Act 1999 and that the Commonwealth cultural environments - Criterion (d) must use its best endeavours to ensure a the place’s importance in exhibiting management plan that is consistent with particular aesthetic characteristics valued the management principles is prepared by a community or cultural group - and implemented in cooperation with the Criterion (e). State. On 9 November 2012, the Australian Government announced the inclusion of the national Indigenous heritage values as part of the existing National Heritage listing for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The Aboriginal Rainforest people of the Wet Tropics of Queensland have lived continuously in the rainforest environment for at least 5000 years and this is the only place in Australia where Aboriginal people have permanently inhabited a tropical rainforest environment. The criteria for listing are: • the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement at a particular period – Criterion (f) • the place has outstanding heritage value to the nation because of the place’s importance as part of indigenous tradition - Criterion (i).

6 Administration of the Act

Enabling legislation by the Australian Government and the The Wet Tropics of Queensland World Queensland Government, reporting to Heritage Area is managed under the Wet both on its performance against agreed Tropics World Heritage Protection and outcomes. The Authority is a body Management Act 1993 (the Queensland corporate, with statutory powers defi ned Act) and the Wet Tropics of Queensland under the Queensland Act. The Authority’s World Heritage Area Conservation Act functions, as defi ned under section 10 of 1994 (the Commonwealth Act). These Acts the Queensland Act, are to: implement Australia’s international duty for • develop and implement policies and the protection, conservation, presentation, programs for management of the Area rehabilitation and transmission to future generations of the World Heritage Area. • formulate performance indicators for the implementation of approved policies The Queensland Act establishes the and programs Wet Tropics Management Authority and • advise and make recommendations to provides the legal basis for the Wet Tropics the Minister and the Ministerial Council Management Plan 1998 (the Plan) that regulates land use activities in the Area • prepare and implement management through a zoning and permit system. plans for the Area The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area • administer funding arrangements Management Scheme is an intergovern- • facilitate and enter into Cooperative mental agreement signed by the Prime Management Agreements Minister of Australia and the Premier of Queensland in 1990. It sets out broad • rehabilitate and restore the Area structural and funding arrangements • gather, research, analyse and dissemi- for the management of the Area. The nate information on the Area agreement is incorporated as Schedule 1 to the Queensland Act and given effect by • develop public and community educa- section 3 of the Commonwealth Act. An tion programs amended version of the Agreement was • promote the Area locally, nationally and adopted in 2011. internationally The Wet Tropics Management • liaise with the Australian and Queens- Authority land Governments, agencies and international organisations The Wet Tropics Management Authority (‘the Authority’) was set up to ensure • monitor the state of the Area Australia’s obligation under the World • advise and report to the Minister and Heritage Convention is met in relation the Ministerial Council on the state of to the World Heritage Area. It is funded the Area.

7 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Subject to performing its functions in a Australian Government and Queensland way which is consistent with the protection Government have joint interests in and of the natural heritage values of the Area, responsibilities for the Wet Tropics of the Authority must, as far as practicable, Queensland World Heritage Area. also perform its functions in a way that is consistent with the objectives and Subject to amendment of the Queensland principles of the National Strategy for Act, several of the functions of Ministerial Ecologically Sustainable Development and Council will be re-allocated to the with the Intergovernmental Agreement on Australian and Queensland Environment the Environment. Ministers acting in cooperation. Other functions will be directly discharged by Our contribution to government either the Australian or Queensland objectives Minister. Consistent with its legislative roles and A board of directors is set up under the functions, the Wet Tropics Management Queensland Act and consists of seven Authority endeavours to ensure that its directors, six of whom serve in a part time service delivery initiatives contributes capacity. Two directors are nominated by to the Australian and Queensland the Australian Government and two by Government objectives for the Wet Tropics the Queensland Government. The Chair community. and a designated Aboriginal director are nominated by the Wet Tropics Ministerial Statutory reporting obligations Council. The executive director of the Each year the Wet Tropics Management Authority is a non-voting board director. Authority prepares a report on the The Board’s key function is to implement administration of the Act during the year, programs to meet Australia’s international fi nancial statements for the year, and a obligations for the Area under the World report on the state of the Area, as required Heritage Convention. under section 63(1) of the Queensland Act and section 10 of the Commonwealth Act. The Authority operates as an admin- istrative unit within the Queensland Management structure Government Department of Environment The intergovernmental agreement and Heritage Protection. As part of the provides for, inter alia, the establishment Queensland public sector, the Authority of the Wet Tropics Ministerial Council, is subject to public sector legislation, consisting of Commonwealth and State regulations, standards and guidelines Ministers. Its function is to coordinate governing administrative functions and policy and funding for the Area. arrangements. The Director-General of the Department of Environment and Heritage In August 2011 the intergovernmental Protection is the accountable offi cer for agreement was updated to refl ect the the Authority under the Financial and decision of the Council of Australian Performance Management Standard Governments to abolish property specifi c 2009. The Authority is responsible to the Ministerial Councils, including the Wet Director-General regarding compliance Tropics Ministerial Council, and to make with State Government administrative and other minor amendments required to fi nancial standards. ensure the Agreement remains current and relevant. It recognises that both the

8 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

The Authority is a small organisation and Wet Tropics Ministerial Council works in partnership with other agencies, At June 2014 Ministerial Council com- stakeholders and the wider community. prised: The Authority has produced a range of strategic policy and planning documents • The Honourable Andrew Powell MP, which guide management of the World Queensland Minister for Environment Heritage Area, consistent with its legislative and Heritage Protection (Chair) responsibilities. • The Honourable Greg Hunt MP, Australi- an Minister for the Environment. While the Authority is the lead agency responsible for policy, planning and the Ministerial Council did not meet between 1 coordination of management in the July 2013 and 30 June 2014. Area, it is not directly responsible for on-ground management. Day-to-day Wet Tropics Management Authority management activities such as infra- Board of Directors structure maintenance and pest control are the responsibility of the relevant land The board of directors is set up under the managers which include the Department Queensland Act and consists of seven of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and directors. Two directors are nominated by Racing; the Department of Environment the Australian Government and two by and Heritage Protection; the Department the Queensland Government. The Chair of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry; and and a designated Aboriginal director are community infrastructure service providers nominated by the Wet Tropics Ministerial for power, water and roads, and 11 local Council. governments. Following the retirement of former chairperson, Associate Professor Peter An annual partnership agreement is de- Valentine and directors Cr Julia Leu and veloped each year between the Authority Dr Alastair Birtles in the fi rst half of 2013, and Department of National Parks, Recrea- it was not possible to achieve the quorum tion, Sport and (DNPRSR) to prioritise and defi ned by the Act so during 2013-14 no coordinate management activities in the Board meetings were convened. As at 30 protected area estate within the World June 2014 the directors of the Authority Heritage Area. The partnership agreement were: outlines products and services to be delivered by the Queensland Parks and • Mr Andrew Maclean (Executive Director) Wildlife Service (QPWS) under funding • Dr Rosemary Hill provided by the Queensland Government • Ms Leah Talbot. for World Heritage management.

The Authority also works in partnership with the regional community as a means of building a sense of ownership and sharing both the benefi ts and burdens of best practice management. In particular, the Authority consults with the community, both through its committees and directly and extensively on matters with signifi cant community impact, such as management plans.

9 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Board directors are remunerated in from throughout the Wet Tropics region. accordance with the Remuneration of Committee members represent a broad Part-Time Chairs and Members of Govern- range of expertise and skills including ment Boards, Committees and Statutory conservation, education, tourism, recrea- Authorities as approved by the Governor tion, local government, Aboriginal culture, in Council. The overall cost of the Board science and primary industries. Members in 2013-2014 was $14,616. This included and observers of the CCC comprised: special assignment fees, all necessary Ms Rhonda Sorensen (Chair) and reasonable travel expenses and other general operating costs. In 2013-14 Ms Bryony Barnett (Deputy Chair) most expenses were incurred through Mrs Pam Birkett participation of directors and advisory committee members in the conduct of Ms Ellie Bock the Queensland terrestrial World Heritage Mr Greg Bruce Review. Mr Chris Cameron Committees and liaison groups Mr Pino Giandomenico The Authority has two statutory advisory Ms Darlene Irvine committees appointed by the Board under section 40 (1) of the Queensland Act. They Mr Ross Rogers are the Community Consultative Com- Ms Joann Schmider mittee (CCC) and the Scientifi c Advisory Committee (SAC). These committees meet Mr Warren Singleton quarterly prior to Board meetings and Ms Doon McColl, Great Barrier Reef advise the Authority on programs and Marine Park Authority, (observer) research for the management of the Area. Ms Claire Grant, DNPRSR (QPWS) The three year term of appointment of the (observer). CCC and the SAC ended in May 2014. In the absence of a Board, members of both Some of the major issues discussed by the committees have agreed to continue to CCC in 2013-2014 were the yellow crazy meet to ensure continuity of scientifi c and ant eradication program; the Queensland community expertise and advice which Government review of terrestrial World benefi t both the Authority and the wider Heritage Areas; development of Wet community in the management of the Wet Tropics Watch; and a review of the Tropics World Heritage Area. operating guidelines of the committee.

Community Consultative The CCC met on: 26 July 2013; 8 Novem- Committee ber 2013; and 28 March 2014. The CCC cost $2674 to operate, mostly for catering, The CCC has the function of advising the venue hire and reimbursement for out- Authority on the views of the community of-pocket expenses and travel expenses. on the Authority’s policies and programs in Members do not receive sitting fees. relation to the Wet Tropics Area.

The members of the CCC are selected as individuals to represent a broad range of community views, knowledge and interest

10 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Scientifi c Advisory Committee Professor Jeff Sayer, Professor of Conser- Members of the SAC come from a broad vation and Development Practice, James range of disciplines including the natural, Cook University ecological, socio-cultural and economic Mr Gerry Turpin, Queensland Herbarium, sciences. Most are actively involved in Department of Environment and Heritage tropical research programs in the Wet Protection Tropics region and northern Australia. Dr Christine Williams, Assistant Director During the year major issues where General, Department of Science, Informa- SAC advice was sought included the tion Technology, Innovation and the Arts development of the Wet Tropics Learning Dr David Westcott, Principal Research Landscape initiative, biosecurity issues, the Scientist, Tropical Landscapes Program, development of a reporting framework to CSIRO monitor the Outstanding Universal Value of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area; Ms Claire Grant, DNPRSR (QPWS) research investment in the Wet Tropics; (observer). and connectivity conservation priorities. Members of the Scientifi c Advisory Members and observers of the SAC Committee met on: 8 August 2013; 8 comprised: November 2013; and 3 February 2014. Professor Steve Williams, Centre for The SAC cost $3,130 to operate, mostly for Tropical Biology and Climate Change, catering, venue hire and reimbursements James Cook University (Chair) for out of pocket and travel expenses. Dr Susan Laurance, Tropical Leader in Members do not receive sitting fees. Rainforest Ecology, James Cook University (Deputy Chair) Conservation Sector Liaison Group The Conservation Sector Liaison Group Dr Damien Burrows, Director TropWater, (CSLG) is established under section 40 (1) Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem (b) of the Queensland Act. The function of Research the CSLG is to provide conservation sector Professor Carla Catterall, Theme Leader, input to the Authority in relation to key Environmental Restoration and Man- conservation challenges associated with agement, Environmental Futures Centre, the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area; to Griffi th University channel information and opinion between the conservation sector and the Authority; Professor Darren Crayn, Director Australian and to facilitate and support implemen- Tropical Herbarium tation of the Authority’s conservation Dr Miriam Goosem, Principal Research agenda. Fellow, James Cook University Membership includes a broad range of Dr Alex Kutt, Adjunct Associate Professor, groups who are working for conservation James Cook University in the Wet Tropics. Members and observ- Ms Henrietta Marrie, Adjunct Professor, ers comprised: United Nations University Ms Angelika Ziehrl, Cairns and Far North Dr Dan Metcalfe, Program Leader- Ecology Environment Centre (Acting Chair) Program, Ecosystem Services, CSIRO Mr Peter Smith, Wildlife Protection Society Dr Lea Scherl, Adjunct Associate Professor, of Queensland (Deputy Chair) James Cook University

11 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Dr Alice Crabtree, Conservation Volunteers Wet Tropics Tourism Network Dr Sigrid Heise-Pavlov, Tree Kangaroo and The Wet Tropics Tourism Network provides Mammal Group a key point of contact between the Wet Tropics Management Authority and Mr Luke Jackson, Quoll Seekers Network/ tourism operators who utilise the World Australian Quoll Conservancy Heritage Area. Meetings provide a formal Mr Tony Jurgensen, Johnstone Ecological channel of communication where partici- Society pants advise and provide comment to the Authority on policy directions, projects and Mr Jeremy Little, The Wilderness Society strategies that specifi cally regard tourism. Margaret Moorhouse, Alliance to Save Hinchinbrook/North Queensland Conser- The focus of the network is to facilitate vation Council partnerships to present World Heritage values, and as a result, further strength- Ms Deborah Pergolotti, FrogSafe ening and developing the Wet Tropics Mr Peter Rowles, Community for Coastal tourism industry. Network membership and Cassowary Conservation provides the Authority with intelligence and insight into current issues around Ms Angela Strain, Environmental Defend- access to protected areas for tourism ers Offi ce, NQ purposes and the need to strengthen the Ms Susie Batemen, Biosecurity Queensland quality and range of tourism products in (observer) the region. Ms Claire Grant (Queensland Parks and The Tourism Network comprises repre- Wildlife Service) (observer) sentatives from the tourism industry, local Mr Travis Sydes (Far North Queensland operators, local and state government Regional Organisation of Councils) agencies, local conservation groups (observer) and Rainforest Aboriginal people. Over 120 individuals and organisations have Some of the major issues discussed by the registered to participate at meetings, and CSLG in 2013-2014 were fi re management participants choose to attend meetings and the Wet Tropics; the draft Great that are of interest to them. Barrier Reef Strategic Assessment; the Outstanding Universal Value of the Wet At 30 June 2014, the Wet Tropics Tourism Tropics World Heritage Area; changes to Network organisational membership the vegetation laws in Queensland; and included over 120 tourism businesses, the yellow crazy ant eradication program; local and state government organisations, Indigenous organisations, individuals and The Conservation Sector Liaison Group private tour operator businesses. met four times on 23 September 2013; 2 December 2013; 10 March 2014 and 16 June 2014. In 2013-14, the cost for convening the CSLG meetings was $2,905. Costs incurred were primarily for catering purposes and out-of-pocket travel expenses of members. Members do not receive sitting fees.

12 2013-2018 Strategic Plan Goals

The Wet Tropics Management Authority is organised around the seven strategic goals that describe the ultimate outcomes the Authority aspires to. The goals are: 1 The Outstanding Universal Value of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is protected and maintained consistent with Australia’s obligation under the World Heritage Convention. 2 Communities derive benefi t and value from the World Heritage Area, are effectively involved in planning and management and their stewardship of the World Heritage Area is recognised and supported. 3 Rainforest Aboriginal people are supported in expressing their knowledge, culture and management practices on country. 4 The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is used, enjoyed and celebrated as the world’s fi nest learning landscape for tropical rainforest and its sustainable management. 5 World Heritage Area values are supported and presented through sustainable tourism. 6 Enduring partnerships enhance the integrity of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, its presentation and its function in the life of the community. 7 The Wet Tropics Management Authority is an accountable and capable organisation.

Progress towards the goals, objectives and milestones in the 2013-2018 Strategic Plan provide the framework for 2013-14 annual report.

13 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

The Outstanding Universal Administration of the Wet Tropics Value of the Wet Tropics World Management Plan Heritage Area is protected and The Plan regulates activities in the Wet maintained consistent with Tropics World Heritage Area (the Area) Australia’s obligation under the that have the potential to impact on the integrity of the Area. The Plan includes World Heritage Convention criteria for the assessment of permit applications for construction and mainte- The Outstanding Universal Value of the nance of roads, powerlines, water supplies Wet Tropics World Heritage Area lies at the and communication facilities. heart of its governance and management regime. The protection and conservation of the value of the Area requires an Avoiding impacts on World effective management and regulatory Heritage integrity - advice and regime. The Authority has an important assistance to stakeholders role in coordinating the contribution Community services infrastructure of others in support of the Area. Pests, providers weeds, disease and climate change are Authority staff undertook regular liaison identifi ed as currently posing the greatest with staff and contractors working on threat to the integrity of the World the planning, building and maintenance Heritage Area. of community services infrastructure in the World Heritage Area. As part of this Review of the Operation of the Wet liaison, the Authority provided advice Tropics Management Plan 1998 on actions that could be taken to avoid Under the Wet Tropics World Heritage or mitigate impacts on the Area. Major Protection and Management Act 1993 (the service providers included Queensland Queensland Act) a review of the operation Department of Transport and Main Roads of the Wet Tropics Management Plan (DTMR), local governments, Powerlink 1998 (the Plan) is required every 10 years. Queensland, Stanwell Pty Ltd and Ergon While a review of the Plan was completed Energy, as well as agencies providing in 2011, proposed amendments to the telecommunication facilities. Plan resulting from the review have not as yet been made. The Authority has prepared a draft Wet Tropics Amendment Management Plan for consideration by the Wet Tropics Board, however further progress has not been possible during this fi nancial year due to delays in the appointment of a Chair and other Board vacancies.

14 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Rainforest Aboriginal people • WTMA13004 Variety Club of Staff provided advice and support to Queensland to conduct an event on a Aboriginal organisations and Councils presentation restricted road to support their management of natural • WTMA13003 and WTMA13006 resources and mitigate threats to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council to integrity of their country. Staff facilitated upgrade water supply facilities consultation between local government and agencies undertaking construction • WTMA13005 Balkanu Cape York and maintenance activities in the Area Development Corporation to construct a with relevant Traditional Owner groups. walking trail These discussions help all parties better • WTMA14003 Department of Defence understand the potential impact of for maintenance of infrastructure. projects and maintenance activities on cultural and natural heritage values. The de-amalgamation of some local government Councils required the Minor and inconsequential re-issuing of infrastructure maintenance activities permits to the new and former entities. Activities deemed to be of minor and inconsequential impact under the Plan Ten Mile Station do not require a Wet Tropics permit to Ten Mile Station is a grazing lease in be issued. Staff reviewed and provided the upper Bloomfi eld Valley within the advice regarding a number of proposals Area. The lease is subject to a natural that were deemed to have only minor resource management agreement with the and inconsequential impacts on the Area. Authority to protect the natural values of For example, Cairns Regional Council’s the lease from grazing impacts. Fencing proposal to construct a viewing platform work has progressed and Authority staff at Crystal Cascades and the upgrade of have been monitoring plots at different the Kirrama Range Road by the Cassowary sites as indicators for any emerging natural Coast Regional Council. resource impacts resulting from grazing.

Assessment of Wet Tropics permit applications Authority staff undertook auditing and provided advice to agencies undertaking activities in the World Heritage Area under existing permits, particularly in regard to work being carried out on the Main Roads network. Staff also provided pre- lodgement advice to agencies in regard to various proposals under consideration. Authority staff assessed and issued new permits under the Plan to the following agencies:

15 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Investigation and enforcement Land dealings In early 2014, concerns were raised about The Authority provided advice on road widening work conducted by Cook development proposals, including those Shire Council between Rossville and Ayton outside the Area that may affect the which led to excessive sediment load cultural and World Heritage natural turbidity from runoff in the adjoining Gap values. Authority staff provided formal Creek. The works had been undertaken advice on seven occasions to the State without a Wet Tropics permit or Land Asset Management Group within consultation with Authority staff. Authority the Department of Natural Resources and staff worked with the Council to ameliorate Mines regarding land dealings including the impacts, reinstate sediment control proposed lease renewals, free holding measures and re-establish communication applications and proposed road closures. protocols. Staff from the Department of Staff also responded to six inquiries Environment and Heritage Protection concerning the location of particular (EHP) issued an enforcement notice under properties relative to the Area. the Environmental Protection Act 1994. A reporting framework for In conjunction with EHP staff, Authority Outstanding Universal Value staff investigated a potential infringement In the light of the increased emphasis associated with destruction of a listed on protection and management of threatened plant under the Nature Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) by the Conservation Act 1992 at Bramston UNESCO World Heritage Committee, the Beach. However, it was determined that a Authority commenced development of a prosecution was not warranted. draft reporting framework which refl ects the three pillars of OUV. The three pillars Training of Conservation Offi cers are: All conservation offi cers under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 are, by virtue • The property meets one or more of the of their offi ce, authorised under the ten World Heritage criteria Queensland Act to undertake investigation • The property meets the conditions of and enforcement activities in relation integrity to the Plan. The Authority updated the training package that was provided to • The property meets the requirements QPWS conservation offi cers on their for protection and management to investigation and enforcement powers and ensure its safeguarding. responsibilities under the Plan. The draft reporting framework aims to satisfy the World Heritage Committee requirements for assessing condition, integrity, protection and management of the Area.

16 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

World Heritage planning, The fi rst round of the 2014 triple treatment conservation and rehabilitation program commenced in May 2014, with forested areas (including the World Eradication of yellow crazy ants in and Heritage Area component) and sugarcane around the Wet Tropics World Heritage paddocks being baited via helicopter. Area Ground-treatment of residential areas In November 2012 the Authority was commenced in April 2014. advised by the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment, the Honourable Greg Local government planning Hunt MP, that it had been successful in The Authority provided general advice its submission seeking a fi ve-year grant and formal comments on several local totalling $1.9M for the eradication of government planning schemes during yellow crazy ant infestations in and around 2013-2014, particularly for Cairns Regional the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The Council and Cassowary Coast Regional yellow crazy ant is one of the world’s 100 Council. worst invasive species and pose a serious threat to the Outstanding Universal Value Natural resource management of the Area. The Authority participated in cross-agency There are two main areas of infestation activities associated with the management threatening the Area. The main area is of natural resources including NRM located around the southern suburbs bodies, QPWS, and the Cairns Hillslopes of Cairns with a total area of infestation Fire Management Committee. Staff also of approximately 600ha of which about provided advice to landholders within the 200ha is forested, 200ha is sugarcane and Area about activities regulated by the Wet 200ha of residential area. The ants have Tropics Plan on their land. With a view to now advanced into about 30ha of the reducing the level of animal mortality that World Heritage Area. The other infestation might result from a signifi cant increase in is at Russett Park, a rural residential area cane haulage on the road network, staff north of the Barron River near Kuranda. briefed drivers and management of the This infestation is about 30ha and is within transport company involved. 500m of the World Heritage boundary.

Every year, for the fi rst three years of the project, a triple-treatment program will be implemented. The treatment involves application of insect baits with attractants that target yellow crazy ants. Treatment times are scheduled to have maximum impact on the ants. These times are based on different stages of the reproductive lifecycle of the ants. Project partners include an expert in the fi eld of tramp ant control, to provide scientifi c services in this regard.

17 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Communities derive benefi t and The Authority coordinated a series of value from the World Heritage Saturday talks at the Cairns Botanic Area, are effectively involved in Gardens Visitor Centre between October 2013 and January 2014, complementing planning and management and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area their stewardship of the World display installed there during that period. Heritage Area is recognised and The talks provided community groups with supported a platform to raise awareness of their work in the Wet Tropics. Community support for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (the Area) and The Authority was delighted to be involved engagement in its stewardship is vital to in the visit of Tourism Australia’s ‘Best Job ensuring the Area is protected and that it in the World’ Park Ranger Elisa Detrez who remains a valued global asset. Community helped cut a 25th anniversary cake at the groups in and around the Area actively Trees for Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands participate in enhancing the natural and (TREAT) nursery whilst visiting the cultural values of the Area and need to be Atherton Tablelands in October 2013. The recognised and appreciated. Landholders combined efforts of QPWS and Tourism and neighbours of the Area have an Queensland helped bring this anniversary important role in monitoring threats and milestone to international attention whilst are valuable partners to management acknowledging the important work of a agencies. key community group involved in restoring rainforests in the Wet Tropics. Working with the Wet Tropics community The Authority encouraged visitor centres across the region to hold their own special Celebrating 25 years of World Heritage event to celebrate the anniversary and During 2013, communities helped many enthusiastically took up the oppor- celebrate the 25th anniversary of tunity, including the Kuranda, Malanda, the inscription of the Wet Tropics of Tully, Babinda and Mission Beach Visitor Queensland on the World Heritage List. Information Centres. Much of the engagement in the second half of 2013-14 was focused around this The Authority also held its own 25 milestone. The Authority rolled out a year birthday celebration with invited communication campaign to engage our guests at the Cairns Botanic Gardens global communities in celebrating this on 7 December 2013. Highlights were anniversary. the launching of the Authority’s Wet Tropics Vegetation Maps and the second The Authority established a 25 year portal edition of the hugely popular Repairing on its website and a 25 year anniversary the Rainforest book. In producing a logo depicting the Bowenia leaf, a symbol commemorative 25 years video, the of ancient lineage of our World Heritage Authority was able to organise a video Area’s fl ora. The logo was used on the message from the Honourable Bob Hawke Authority’s products and communications AC GCL for the occasion, recalling the this year. listing of the Wet Tropics during his term as Prime Minister. The commemorative

18 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014 videos are available on the Wet Tropics Keep it Wild poster competition website. The Authority also acknowledged The Authority partnered with Tourism the continuous support of the community Australia and Tourism Tropical North in taking care of the Wet Tropics World Queensland (TTNQ) to promote the Heritage Area through their initiatives and region at the Australian Tourism Exchange commitment to maintaining its values. (ATE) held at the Cairns Convention Centre from 11 to 15 May 2014. Travel agents The Authority set up stalls at Townsville’s from around the world visited Cairns to Ecofi esta and the Cairns Sustainability learn from, and do business with, sellers Expo, both in July 2013. The Townsville of Australian tourism. The theme of this Ecofi esta allowed the Authority to reach year’s poster competition was ‘Tourism is southern audiences of the Wet Tropics, everyone’s business’. The competition was while the Sustainability Expo in Cairns held in the fi rst school term, and entries reached the wide variety of audiences in were displayed at the Cairns Pier shopping the city. centre during the Easter school holiday break along with the Wet Tropics World Cassowary Recovery Team Heritage Area display panels. Over 350 The Authority Chairs and provides entries were received from young artists secretariat support for the Cassowary from primary schools around the region. Recovery Team which oversees the implementation of the Recovery Plan Messages expressed through the posters for the endangered southern cassowary focused on why the region is special and under the Commonwealth’s Environment on protecting our reef and rainforests. Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Winners were presented with prizes Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Membership includes donated by Big Cat Green Island Cruises a broad range of government agencies, and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway at the ATE organisations and individuals who are movie night on the Cairns Esplanade on working for cassowary conservation in the the 14th May 2014. The event and winning Wet Tropics. entries were promoted on the Wet Tropics website and Facebook page. Education Newspapers in Education Communications The Authority sponsored the Newspapers News and media in Education (NiE) section of The Cairns The Authority continued to promote its Post newspaper for the tenth year. The projects and the Outstanding Universal Keep It Wild poster competition was Value of the Wet Tropics to the media promoted in NiE and additional stories will and the wider community. The Wet be written in the remaining calendar year Tropics being ranked the second most focusing on yellow crazy ants, cassowaries irreplaceable World Heritage Area and other relevant issues. on earth gained considerable print, television and radio media attention. The implementation of the yellow crazy ant eradication program continued to be a hot topic in the region and a key media and communications focus for the Authority. Updates and feature articles regarding the eradication program featured regularly

19 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014 across all aspects of the media. The Wet Wet Tropics website Tropics Tour Guide Program and the The Wet Tropics website continued to associated fi eld schools were popular be an important communications and with the tourism industry and were cross engagement tool, highlighting news promoted through regional tourism and events throughout the year as well networks. The news and events section as providing an easy portal into 25th of the Wet Tropics website was regularly anniversary activities. According to website updated ensuring the public were aware of statistics for 2013-14 there was an average issues relevant to the Area. of 2.27 pages viewed per visit, with over 77,000 people visiting the website and Wet Tropics eNews 174,694 page views recorded throughout Publication of the Authority’s quarterly the year; up by over 5000 from the eNews continued during the year, with previous year. the objective of ensuring the Wet Tropics community is well informed about the Social media World Heritage Area and the work of the The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area Authority and its partners Facebook page continued to promote World Heritage Area experiences, and Interpretation, website, digital communicate updates on issues and media and on-line engagement events from around the region. It has During the second half of 2013 the also been a valuable tool in distributing Authority developed a series of 12 messages such as those relating to yellow interpretive panels which were displayed crazy ants and wildlife conservation. The at the Cairns Botanic Gardens between Facebook page has doubled the number October 2013 and January 2014. of ‘likes’ during 2013-14, increasing from 497 to 1052 highlighting the increasing The Authority also partnered with the reach it is having. The most popular posts Cairns Regional Council to produce are those that refl ect the outstanding 10 street pole banners placed on natural features and wildlife of the Area. poles on Grafton Street in the central business district. Highlighting the 25th Since its inception in June 2011, the anniversary of the World Heritage Area, Authority’s Facebook ‘friend’ engagement the banners provided an attractive has grown steadily. About two thirds of visual display in a central and popular the Facebook friends are Australians, of part of the city. The Authority produced which half are from local Wet Tropics a new colourful eight page brochure communities. Engagement peaked in June celebrating the Outstanding Universal 2014 with interest in yellow crazy ants, Value and cultural values of the Area. The cassowaries and other wildlife posts that organisation also continued to develop were re-posted, shared and reached over other communication material such as 1500 Facebook users. a ‘Learning Landscape’ brochure which promoted research opportunities for investment.

20 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Aboriginal people are supported The Authority’s partnership approach in expressing their knowledge, includes working with Rainforest Aboriginal culture and management peoples and their organisations, including Native Title Representative Bodies practices on country (NTRB), Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC), Registered Native Title Bodies For thousands of years Rainforest Corporate (RNTBC) Land Trusts and Aboriginal people have been an integral Land/Sea management corporations, part of the land and seascape of the Wet Commonwealth and State government Tropics region, living in and around the agencies, local government councils, World Heritage Area and using traditional research institutions, NRM Bodies and practices to manage ‘country’ and live other non government organisations sustainably from the natural resources. (NGOs). The Authority recognises the contribution Rainforest Aboriginal people continue to Relationships and partnerships make to the contemporary management of the World Heritage Area. The Authority The Authority builds sustainable works closely with Rainforest Aboriginal relationships at local, sub-regional, people, respecting their traditional lore regional and national levels, developed and cultural knowledge, rights, interests through dedicated and strategic resource and aspirations towards best practice allocation. During 2013-14 the Authority: management of the World Heritage Area. • maintained, extended and implemented a database of Rainforest Aboriginal A proactive, conciliatory and collaborative contacts and communication protocols partnership approach to supporting across the region Traditional Owners’ equitable and culturally respectful participation requires adequate • supported the Rainforest Aboriginal capacity at all levels of engagement. The Peoples Alliance (RAPA), a representative opportunity for Traditional Owners to body for Rainforest Aboriginal express their knowledge, cultures and people across the Wet Tropics region, practices for ‘looking after country’ is to conduct a three day workshop critical to their well-being and yields social ‘Warrama’ that focussed on regional and economic dividends for the broader issues relevant to Traditional Owners community as well as environmental and • partnered with Girringun Aboriginal cultural benefi ts. The Authority seeks Corporation, a key organisation to provide recognition and support delivering on ground outcomes for for improved leadership, governance World Heritage management, to and operational competencies through investigate pathways for attracting new capacity development, and equitable investment participation in decision-making, corporate development and employment. • engaged with Jirrbal and Ngadjon-jii Traditional Owners, and in collaboration with QPWS, assess options for the implementation of commitments under expired Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs)

21 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

• participated in planning for the upgrade Traditional Owner small grants of the Yarrabah Boardwalk with Yarrabah scheme Aboriginal Shire Council, QPWS and During 2013-14 the Authority provided Queensland Indigenous Tourism small grants to Traditional Owner Enterprise (QITE) including research organisations totalling nearly $30,000. regarding construction materials and Grants focussed on completing bio- costings cultural activities by Rainforest Aboriginal • participated in Warrungu and Mamu people that will benefi t Wet Tropics World Native Title Determination celebrations Heritage Area management. This program and the launch of the Mungalla Station supported Traditional Owners to express biodiversity project (Nywaigi) or enhance their knowledge, culture and management practices through planning, • supported and participated in the Gimuy management, monitoring and research Fish and Food Festival highlighting on their traditional country. Successful issues of sustainability, Rainforest recipients and their projects include: Aboriginal bio-cultural diversity and natural wealth • Gunggandji PBC: Cultural site recording and mapping at key Yarrabah sites • engaged in quarterly face-to-face consultations with Traditional Owner • Choorechillum Ngadjon PBC: Tourism representatives by attending at opportunity partnership development in Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) Ngadjon traditional country Board meetings, regular consultations, • Mamu (Mullen Bun Goon Ltd): Identify, and other forums; engagement was record and map signifi cant carved trees responsive and focussed on gathering with elders and youth in the South and sharing information regarding Johnstone area projects and work in the World Heritage Area • Mamu (Bagibarra Coastal Inc): Inter-generational cultural knowledge • partnered separately with Girringun sharing between elders and school Aboriginal Corporation, Mandingalbay children using tactile methods and Yidinji Aboriginal Corporation, and demonstrations Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation to implement Indigenous Protected Area • Wanyur Majay (Bunna Binda): Cultural (IPA) agreements. heritage information capture and recording with key elders • Gunggandji (Yarrabah Arts Cultural Precinct): Cultural heritage boardwalk signage design and interpretation.

22 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Support for Traditional Owner • Assisted Traditional Owner organisations organisations with on-ground projects including: The Authority provided staff support - development of Gunggandji and resources and training for a number community-based land and sea of Traditional Owner organisations to management plan increase their capacity to look after their - provision of GIS data and traditional lands including: interpretation to Gimuy Walubara • provided a grant to the Rainforest Yidinji and involvement in their Land Aboriginal Peoples Alliance (RAPA) to and Sea Country Plan implementation formalise a Partnership Agreement with - provision of GIS data and the Authority detailing principles of the interpretation to Wabubadda Authority’s communication, engagement Aboriginal Corporation (Jirrbal) and commitments to an annual plan and support and advice in tourism • conducted a grant writing skills aspiration planning workshop with Traditional Owners from - provision of GIS information to Dawul more than six tribal/clan groups. Wuru (Yirrganydji) for country based • Assisted Traditional Owner organisations management planning to prepare and/or partner grant - provision of mapping for applications for bio-cultural ‘looking Mandingalbay Yidinji IPA consultative after country’ projects including: forum and GIS data for land claim; - Gunggandji Aboriginal Corporation - walking track planning; strategic Indigenous Sea Country Management plan implementation; participation in Grants: Implement a Land and Sea biodiversity survey Management Plan; mapping data; - assistance in video development with North Queensland Indigenous Land Girringun Aboriginal Corporation for and Sea Country Grants the ‘Save the Cassowary’ Campaign. - Djunbunji Land and Sea Program (Mandingalbay Yidinji) - Indigenous Employment Program Funding; North Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Country Grants - Dawul Wuru Indigenous Corporation (Yirrganydji) - Indigenous Sea Country Management Grants; North Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Country Grants - Nywaigi Traditional Owners - Biodiversity Grant for Mungalla Station

23 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Improving wellbeing Native Title, Indigenous Land Use The Authority engaged Rainforest and other agreements Aboriginal people with current interests The Authority engaged in implementation or aspirations to participate in the arrangements for Native Title determi- tourism industry in the Wet Tropics. As an nations and associated Indigenous Land economic sector, Aboriginal tourism differs Use Agreements (ILUAs) and Indigenous markedly from mainstream tourism. While Protected Areas (IPA). Reconciling its unique opportunities are evident, the responsibility to appropriately balance challenges and obstacles, are complex and World Heritage values with the well-being poorly understood by governments, the of Rainforest Aboriginal people, their tourism industry and Traditional Owners cultural obligations to protect and manage themselves. lands and waters, and their aspirations for land use, community development and The Authority supported the participation socio-economic recovery, in 2013-14 the of 10 Traditional Owners in Tour Guide Authority collaborated with: Training at several separate Field Schools and Field Days across the Wet • Mandingalbay Yidinji Aboriginal Tropics enabling them to gain skills and Corporation, Djunbunji and other knowledge unique to the World Heritage partners of the IPA Steering Committee Area. Collaborating with Girramay elders to progress implementation of the and Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, the IPA Management Plan and ex-ILUA Authority is also providing opportunity for arrangements Traditional Owners to play a leading role • Girringun Aboriginal Corporation in designing and populating interpretative and other partners of the Girringun signage for the Kirrama Range. Region IPA Committee to progress implementation of the IPA Management As a partner to the National Environmental Plan Research Program (NERP) Tropical Ecosystems Hub ‘Indigenous Co- • Gunggandji PBC Aboriginal Corporation management and Biodiversity Protection’ and other partners of the Independent project, the Authority participated in Advisory Committee to progress project Co-Research Team meetings and implementation of the Land and Sea workshops. The overall goal of the project Country Plan. is to identify the means for effective recognition of Indigenous knowledge and co-management in the Wet Tropics region and deliver tested mechanisms for co-governance and collaboration between Traditional Owners, government managers, NRM, NGOs and other key partners for biodiversity and cultural conservation in the Wet Tropics region. The project will be complete in December 2014.

24 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

The Wet Tropics World Heritage Some of the key objectives of the learning Area is used, enjoyed and landscape project include: celebrated as the World’s fi nest • the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area learning landscape for is recognised as a globally signifi cant tropical rainforest and its site for research into rainforest ecology, sustainable management management and societies • research investment is directed to Accumulated knowledge about the values research questions that are relevant to of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area the management and policy needs of and its governance and management the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area represents a major asset. There is an • research fi ndings are presented and opportunity to capitalise on this to communicated in ways that maximise contribute to the future management uptake and impact for management and of the Wet Tropics and to other natural policy landscapes. While the knowledge generated and shared by formal research • knowledge from a wide variety of formal organisations is a key focus in these and informal sources is respected and strategies, the knowledge held and shared shared for the benefi t of the World by communities, including Rainforest Heritage Area and its communities Aboriginal people is also important. • land managers and communities are active participants in research and Wet Tropics Learning Landscape learning processes. The Authority recognises that scientifi c research plays a critical role in providing Over the past year, several workshops the knowledge for evidence-based were held with the Scientifi c Advisory informed decision making and for the Committee to further refi ne and develop community to understand and appreciate the learning landscape concept. There was the importance of the World Heritage an offi cial public launch of the Authority’s Area. The Authority seeks to support Learning Landscape initiative by the Vice continued research, to build on the legacy Chancellor of James Cook University, of past research investment and to ensure Professor Sandra Harding on the 13 June knowledge generated in the Wet Tropics 2014. is accessible to rainforest and protected area managers elsewhere. In order to Learning Landscape promotional support this, the Authority is promoting brochure and research prospectus the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area as To coincide with the offi cial launch of the an international ‘learning landscape’. The Learning Landscape initiative, an eight Outstanding Universal Value of the Area, page brochure was produced communi- together with the favourable research cating why the Wet Tropics is an important environment found within the region, place to invest in research, why the region provides outstanding opportunities for is an attractive location to undertake collaborative research across a range of research, why research is essential for disciplines such as ecology, climatology, informed management decisions and tourism, sociology and economics based the type of research that the Authority on tropical ecosystems. considers important and would contribute to the better management of the World Heritage Area.

25 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Student Research Grant Scheme • Rebecca McLean, Southern Cross This was the third year that the Authority University: An estimation of population, has offered a competitive small grants home range, sex ratios and relatedness scheme to Australian post graduate of the Southern Cassowary (Casuarius students. Funding of up to $4000 was casuarius johnsonii) using faecal DNA, made available for PhD and Masters sign survey and camera traps in the research projects and up to $1500 for Daintree lowlands and Cedar Bay Honours projects to support environmen- • Susan Nuske, James Cook University: tal, social and cultural research which will Ecosystem services of mammalian benefi t Wet Tropics World Heritage Area fungal dispersers management, policy development and operational decision making. • Claudia Pandolfo Paz, James Cook University: Mycorrhizae Community and Many well-conceived projects, meeting Tree Response to Drought in a Tropical the priorities identifi ed in the Wet Rainforest Tropics Management Authority 2010-2014 • Heather Robson, James Cook University: Research Strategy and demonstrating Utilising eDNA (environmental DNA) scientifi c rigour and innovative research as a surveillance tool for the critically were received. Eleven post-graduate endangered armoured mist frog (Litoria students from three Australian universities lorica) in the Wet Tropics were successful grant recipients. The students, their affi liated research institution • Amy Shima, James Cook University: and projects include: Investigation and Monitoring of Health status of Lumholtz tree kangaroo with • Kaylene Bransgrove, James Cook additional investigation comparing University: Drought, plant productivity biomedical data of several species of and endophytes: Are they connected? tree kangaroo • Genevieve Buckton, James Cook • Tegan Whitehead, James Cook University: Comparing water use University: Population abundance, strategies of lianas and trees in a microhabitat resource use and ecology lowland tropical rainforest of the northern bettong Bettongia • Alice Buhrich, James Cook University: tropica. Homogeneity and heterogeneity of rainforest rock art • Heather Haines, Griffi th University: Linking climate and growth in tropical and subtropical Queensland • Jeremy Little, James Cook University: Climate change implications for bushfi re risk and vegetation types across a climatic gradient in the wet tropics of north-eastern Australia

26 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Wet Tropics Research e-bulletin National Environmental Research The second edition of the Learning Program Landscape e-Bulletin was published The Australian Government’s National on-line in February 2014. It included Environmental Research Program news that the Wet Tropics of Queensland (NERP) funds a portfolio of public good World Heritage Area was ranked the environmental research throughout second most irreplaceable natural World Australia. Heritage site and the sixth overall in global irreplaceability in a new international The NERP Tropical Ecosystems Hub is analysis for the IUCN. It also highlighted focused on addressing issues of concern the importance of long term research by for the management, conservation and celebrating the 50th anniversary of several sustainable use of tropical rainforests rainforest research organisations. including the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, the Great Barrier Reef In producing the research e-bulletin, the and its catchments, and the Torres Authority also aims to clearly establish Strait, through the generation and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area transfer of research and knowledge. as an important centre for research The Authority was represented on the synthesis and to establish the Authority NERP TE Hub Steering Committee and as a valuable contributor to knowledge also chairs, and is represented on, the brokering. The purpose of the research NERP Tropical Ecosystems Hub Rainforest e-bulletin is to promote science for Implementation Group. management; help identify management issues and scientifi c solutions; emphasise The Authority was successful in obtaining application and relevance of research; and funding from the NERP Program’s Tropical translate, interpret, synthesise and convey Ecosystems Hub for a project to facilitate research fi ndings to better inform decision communication of rainforest research to making. the Queensland Government with the aim of maximising policy and management The research e-bulletin was distributed to uptake. over 1000 individuals, Commonwealth, state and local government bodies, The project involves organising forums managers of other Australian in Brisbane and Cairns to brief relevant World Heritage properties, research Queensland Government staff (policy organisations, conservation organisations and operational) of current Wet Tropics and Indigenous organisations. Readership NERP rainforest research and its likely of the research e-bulletin extends into 12 management implications. There are countries. fi ve partners involved in the project, all of whom are Tropical Ecosystems Hub program and/or project leaders as well as being members of the Authority’s Scientifi c Advisory Committee. The aim of this project is to encourage high level Queensland Government support for managing current and emerging threats to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

27 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Australian Research Council Network Linkage grant The Terrestrial Ecosystem Research In December 2011 the Authority Network (TERN) is supported by entered into a three year partnership the Australian Government through agreement with James Cook University, the National Collaborative Research the Queensland Herbarium, the University Infrastructure Strategy and the Super of Queensland and Biome5 Pty Ltd in an Science Initiative. TERN provides the Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage research infrastructure and standardised project: Accelerating species richness gains procedures through which a wide array of and carbon sequestration in secondary ecosystem research data and knowledge regrowth in north Queensland. The aim can be stored, accessed and analysed. of the project is to devise strategies to accelerate rainforest recovery and TERN is establishing two Rainforest Super regrowth on degraded land. Sites in the Wet Tropics; one on the Atherton Tableland centred on a 25ha Many tropical rainforests are being cleared instrumented monitoring plot at Robson and subsequently abandoned. Secondary Creek; and one in the Daintree lowlands forests often regenerate in these aban- centred on James Cook University’s doned sites but are a poor substitute for (JCU) Daintree Rainforest Observatory. the original rainforest, lacking both their The Rainforest Super Sites are providing high species richness and exceptional information on rainforest dynamics and in carbon storage. This ARC Linkage project changes in biodiversity. is investigating the barriers to rainforest regeneration with the aim of determining Running alongside the biodiversity how to accelerate the restoration of these monitoring has been the establishment of forests to increase their biological diversity a biophysical monitoring program which and carbon sequestration. includes automatic weather stations, soil moisture sensor systems and instrumented The research sites are located on private soil pits. A 40m tower with an OzFlux land on the Atherton Tablelands and station constructed adjacent to the 25ha involve the cooperation and support plant dynamics plot monitors energy, of many landholders. The Authority’s water and carbon balance. A Wet Tropics contribution to the project involves the Cooperative Management Agreement allocation of staff time and access to digital (CMA) and Environment Protection spatial coverages and data sets. As of June and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 2014 this research project has resulted in approval were necessary to allow for the nine published or prepared manuscripts, construction of the tower within the Area. seven conference presentations and has supported and trained fi ve post graduate Authority staff attend regular meetings students. and fi eld inspections to discuss research progress and project management issues. The Authority is also a member of the TERN Rainforest Supersite User Group which was established to discuss how to optimise the research relevance and data accessibility from the Robson Creek and Daintree Rainforest Observatory monitoring nodes.

28 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Tropical rainforest plant Launch of second edition of Identifi cation courses Repairing the Rainforest In partnership with the Authority and Repairing the Rainforest was fi rst published CSIRO Plant Industries, the Australian by the Authority in 1995. The updated Tropical Herbarium (ATH) has developed edition provides a practical guide to a series of plant identifi cation workshops rainforest restoration whilst also delving that provide hands-on training to learn into the ecological principles upon which and develop skills in identifying the the practice is based. The book’s focus fl ora of the Wet Tropics. The workshops is primarily on the Wet Tropics region introduce participants to the skills and and highlights key ecological principles resources needed for rainforest plant for restoring rainforest biodiversity and identifi cation; teach the use of interactive function. These include, among others, plant identifi cation keys and are designed the vital role of animal seed-dispersers in to improve participants understanding rainforests and the traits of plants that help of identifi cation, distribution and ecology or hinder their dispersal. The book has of Wet Tropics native and invasive plant been made available as a free download species. The workshops are based on the from the Authority’s website while the Interactive Key to Australian Tropical Rain hardcopy version is available for purchase Forest Plants (RFK) which is the largest from several community tree planting interactive key in the world and covers organisations on the understanding that 10% of the Australian vascular fl ora (over all funds will be directed into rainforest 2530 species). restoration projects undertaken by community groups in the Wet Tropics. Workshop materials were developed in a module format, to enable them to be Geographic Information Services presented ‘stand-alone’ or be combined The Authority provided geographic with others on an as-needed basis. During information services and products to a 2013-14, 60 participants enrolled for either varied client base during the year. Clients basic training (two days) or completed included Commonwealth, State and local advance modules in plant identifi cation government departments, universities, techniques (four days), depending on research organisations, consulting their skill level and requirements. While companies, Traditional Owner groups targeting land managers in the World and organisations, tourism organisations, Heritage Area, workshops were also open community groups and individuals. The to the public. Authority also provides data management and mapping services in support of the yellow crazy ant eradication program.

29 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

World Heritage values are Regional agencies seek and expect the supported and presented Authority to engage and cooperate on through sustainable tourism specifi c site management and for key entry points and visitor sites in the Wet The Authority has made a strong Tropics World Heritage Area. The Authority contribution to support World has also supported practical initiatives Heritage presentation by encouraging, in tourism presentation, marketing and strengthening and engaging with the promotion of key regional road networks, nature-based tourism industry. This aligns including the Great Green Way, the with the Queensland Government’s efforts Bloomfi eld Track redevelopment and the for the state to be Australia’s leading re-opening of the Kirrama Range Road. tourism destination. Our key contribution This cooperation extended to major has been to ensure the highest standards private sector partners including Skyrail of presentation of the World Heritage through National Landscapes and the Area and its natural and cultural values. Kuranda Guide School, Daintree Discovery The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and Centre and the Skywalk at Mamu, Ingan its management is an important part of tours, Jungle Surfi ng in the Tourism the natural advantage that helps defi ne Australia Best of Nature marketing initiative the Queensland tourism experience. as well as forthcoming developments Sustainable tourism and ecotourism have at the Cairns Aquarium and AQUIS with featured strongly in our project activities. whom the Authority are working with We are also guided by the World Heritage to seek opportunities for Wet Tropics convention which requires us to protect rainforest presentation and interpretation. and present this special landscape and to ensure it has a role in the life of the Wet Tropics Guides Program community. The Wet Tropics Tour Guide Program is a stand out initiative. In 2013-14, the project The Queensland Ecotourism Plan, received $66,000 in TQUAL funding which 2013-20 has a strategic goal ‘embracing ensures continued support for the next 18 a partnership approach between tourism, months. The Wet Tropics guide program government and Traditional Owners’. In is delivered in partnership with Savannah our activities and projects this year, we Guides, and is a leading example of guide worked closely with Tourism and Events training aimed at improving presentation, Queensland, QPWS, local government, increasing professional skills within the the Queensland Tourism Industry industry and enhancing visitor experience Council (QTIC) and many other partners in the Area. to promote tourism and presentation. The Authority has taken a leadership role in The Authority successfully conducted facilitating networks such as the National tour guide workshops in the Tully/Mission Landscape Steering Committee, the Wet Beach area in December 2013 and at Tropics Guide Program and participating in Kuranda on 4-5 April 2014. Attended by the network of visitor centre managers for about 40 guides and tourism industry the Wet Tropics. leaders, the Kuranda workshop was opened by Barron River MP, Michael Trout and Mareeba Mayor, Tom Gilmore.

30 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

The Tully/Mission Beach Guide training Bloomfi eld Track workshops attracted a high level of Construction of a crossing at Woobadda participation from Rainforest Aboriginal Creek prompted Cairns Regional Council people and achieved a high level of to prepare a road management plan for cooperation with local indigenous owned the Bloomfi eld Track. The plan confi rms tourism enterprises. This ensured local that the route will be managed as connection and a strong focus on the an adventure driving route, primarily importance of Aboriginal culture, their suitable for four wheel drive use while also stories and connection to tourism. meeting local community needs. The plan also noted that despite its status as an In this work the Authority is endeavouring important presentation road, information to support guides in offering very high provision for road users is inadequate. The standards of presentation to assist visitor Authority has worked with local tourism understanding of the World Heritage operators and Douglas Shire Council to Area and to improve the international develop and implement a plan that will competitiveness of the Wet Tropics nature improve information and interpretive based tourism industry. The program is services, contributing to tourism outcomes receiving national recognition as a means for communities along the route. Douglas of ensuring high quality in the guiding Council followed up on the initiative industry. with the allocation of budget and staff resources to push ahead with this initiative Kirrama Range Road in 2014. The Authority has given close The Cassowary Coast Regional Council attention to engaging with Jabalbina received Queensland Government funding Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation to ensure to support the re-opening of the Kirrama that appropriate regard is given to cultural Range Road after a long period of closure heritage values of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji (since prior to Cyclone Larry in 2006). The people. Authority has long advocated re-opening, recognising the tourism and presentation benefi ts of the road that links Cardwell to Mount Garnet, via Blencoe Falls. In addition to its function as a local access road, it also benefi ts research institutions who undertake ecological research in the area. Working in partnership with Cassowary Coast Regional Council and community groups, the Authority developed a range of signage and other information to help visitors learn about the interesting natural, cultural and historical features of the route, enriching visitor experience. It is intended that this will be installed to coincide with reopening of the road in 2014.

31 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

National Landscapes program key tourism agencies attended. A case The Authority has continued to play a study on the Wet Tropics Tour Guide leadership role in the National Landscapes Program was presented and embraced program. Roles include chairing the enthusiastically as an initiative which steering committee and coordinating improves the conservation and tourism relationships with the national program outcomes. The Wet Tropics also received managers and strengthening the the Outstanding Achievement award regionally based network, which comprises amongst all the National Landscapes for local tourism and conservation groups. the year. There were a number of achievements over the last year. The Authority’s efforts through the various tourism projects have also contributed The National Landscapes Strategic Tourism to helping to strengthen the profi le and Investment Grants (STIG) program has sense of renewal of tourism across the provided $1M for developing National Wet Tropics. This is particularly so in the Landscapes Experience Development Daintree, Tablelands and Cassowary Coast Strategies and implementation of priority where we are working to help strengthen projects. A share of this went to a number tourism presentation and tourism of Wet Tropics businesses to develop their opportunities. experience offerings. The Authority is also working across The Authority played a leading role in a number of Indigenous communities developing and testing the development around Yarrabah, Wujal Wujal, and the of criteria for determining Australia’s Atherton Tablelands to support capacity best nature based tourism experiences. development and tourism opportunities. Criteria have been defi ned to identify This work may serve to promote the Signature Nature products across profi le and new investment opportunities National Landscapes, with State tourism in Indigenous tourism products. organisations, program partners and 16 landscapes engaged. Over 10 products were identifi ed representing the best of the best in nature across the Wet Tropics.

The Wet Tropics National Landscapes Wildiaries Nature Series was also completed by Tourism Australia with support from the Authority. This included a collection three short nature fi lms featuring wildlife and nature of the Wet Tropics landscapes.

The sixth annual National Landscapes Forum was held in Leura, New South Wales in the Greater Blue Mountains Landscape from 24-26 July 2013, 53 participants representing all 16 of Australia’s National Landscapes, Australian and Queensland Governments as well as

32 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Enduring partnerships enhance • Commonwealth and State the integrity of the Wet Tropics environmental agencies. Numerous World Heritage Area, its Australian and Queensland government agencies contribute to the Wet Tropics presentation and its function in World Heritage Area. Prominent among the life of the community these in the Queensland Government are the Departments of Environment The Wet Tropics Management Authority and Heritage Protection; Natural is a small organisation with limited Resources and Mines; Agriculture, operational roles. It relies on the Fisheries and Forestry; and Tourism, commitment and cooperation of its Major Events, Small Business and partners in government, the community the Commonwealth Games. In the and in industry to ensure that the goals Commonwealth, the Departments of of the World Heritage Convention are Environment, Heritage and Water; achieved in the Wet Tropics. Some of the Resources, Energy and Tourism; and most important partners for the Authority Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry play in its work are: particularly important roles. • Land owners and managers within • Universities, research institutions and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. schools. Through research and teaching, Most prominent among these are the universities and schools build and Queensland Department of National communicate knowledge about the Wet Parks, Recreation Sport and Racing Tropics World Heritage Area. They play (DNPRSR), which is responsible for the a central role in achieving the World national parks, conservation reserves Heritage Convention goal calling for and other lands that comprise the bulk the transmission of World Heritage of the Area. Private land comprises properties to future generations. a relatively small proportion of the CSIRO, James Cook University and Area, but the Authority is particularly other universities have made a vital conscious of the commitment of these contribution through research over owners whose land management many years, ensuring that the Wet practices benefi t the entire community. Tropics is strongly positioned as one of • Local government. The Wet Tropics the World’s premier learning landscapes World Heritage Area intersects with for rainforest ecology and management. nine local government areas. Through • Rainforest Aboriginal people. The Rain- sensitive design and management forest Aboriginal tribes that recognise of transport, water and other council the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and community services infrastructure, as their traditional country continue sympathetic planning and regulation of to have a vital interest and role in the development and leadership in matters protection and management of the such as pest control and community landscape which lies at the centre of engagement, councils make a vital Rainforest Aboriginal culture. contribution to the Area.

33 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

• The tourism industry. The far north Australian Committee for IUCN Queensland tourism industry and The Authority is a government agency through this, a large proportion of the member of the International Union for regional economy relies heavily on the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Along the globally signifi cant natural values with other Australian IUCN members, the of the Wet Tropics rainforests. In turn, Authority participates in the Australian the tourism industry is a vital partner National Committee for IUCN (ACIUCN), in presenting the Wet Tropics World serving on its executive committee. Heritage Area to millions of visitors and ACIUCN plays a valuable networking and communicating its values. information sharing role between govern- • Regional community organisations. ment and non-government members of Many community organisations in the IUCN in Australia. region play an important role in support of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Department of National Parks, These include Terrain NRM, the regional Recreation, Sport and Racing natural resources management body; Through the Queensland Parks and numerous catchment coordination Wildlife Service (QPWS) the Department groups; regional and local scale of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and catchment management and landcare Racing (DNPRSR) is responsible for the groups; and community conservation national parks, conservation reserve and organisations. Recreation, arts and others areas of public land that total cultural organisations are also important around 80% of the Wet Tropics World partners for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area making it a vitally important Heritage Area. partner for the Authority.

The Authority’s partnerships are evident In 2013-14, the Authority provided in almost all elements of its work so DNPRSR with $1.8M of Queensland feature in other parts of this annual report. State Government funding that had Partnership activities that are not other- been appropriated for World Heritage wise reported are summarised below. management purposes. This arrangement helps to ensure DNPRSR is able to address Regional Managers Coordination any particular priorities of the Authority in Network relation to the World Heritage status of the The Authority is an active participant Wet Tropics landscape. in the Far North Queensland Regional Managers Coordination Network. This network, comprising senior public sector leaders in Australian, Queensland and local government in the region plays an important role in supporting collaboration between government agencies by sharing information relevant to implementation of government programs.

34 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Machinery of Government changes Australian World Heritage Advisory implemented following the change Committee of Queensland Government in 2012 The Authority collaborated with other required consideration of the nature of Australian World Heritage properties the partnership now that the Authority through the Australian World Heritage and QPWS are in different portfolios. Advisory Committee (AWHAC). AWHAC Consistent with other inter-agency funding advises the Commonwealth Minister for transfer arrangements, a Memorandum the Environment on policies, programs of Understanding (MoU) was developed and appropriate cultural protocols which to support the previously established benefi t World Heritage properties in areas partnership agreement. DNPRSR and the of common interest and on national or Authority agreed that: crosscutting issues. In addition to the 1. The purpose of the MoU is to identify opportunity to contribute to national and fund protected area management policy for World Heritage, the Authority’s services to be delivered by DNPRSR in participation in AWHAC helps increase the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area capacity in the Wet Tropics and elsewhere that contribute to the implementation by information sharing. During 2013-14 of the World Heritage Convention. the Authority played a leading role in support of the development of AWHAC 2. DNPRSR and the Authority will advice on research needs for World collaborate in the development of a Heritage. MoU for 2013-14 that is consistent with the above purpose and conforms Australian World Heritage with the Management Scheme Intergovernmental Agreement for Indigenous Network the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Wet Tropics Traditional Owners participate Heritage Area and the Wet Tropics in the Australian World Heritage Indig- World Heritage Protection and enous Network (AWHIN) that assists in Management Act 1993. ensuring Traditional Owners associated with World Heritage properties have a The Authority continues to work with proper infl uence in national management DNPRSR to ensure its operational and policy. The Authority assisted the functions are appropriately aligned to the secretariat of AWHIN within the Depart- World Heritage priorities of the Area, as ment of Environment and Wet Tropics determined by the Authority. AWHIN representatives with advice and information as required.

35 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

The Wet Tropics Management • $1.9M (over fi ve years) from the Aus- Authority is an accountable and tralian Government to eradicate yellow capable organisation crazy ant infestations that threaten the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Key This goal aims to ensure the Authority activities include a baiting program, and maintains and develops its own capacity a targeted community engagement and and continues to adapt to the priorities education program. The knowledge and of the Australian and Queensland expertise gained during the project will Governments and the Wet Tropics allow for adaptive management as well community. Through this approach, the as improve capacity to respond to any Authority creates a link between the goals future yellow crazy ant infestations, not of the World Heritage Convention and the only in the Wet Tropics region, but also day to day activities of its staff. in other tropical forests • $66,000 (in partnership with Savannah The Wet Tropics Management Authority Guides Ltd) to deliver Wet Tropics Tour continued to pursue high standards of guide training, which aims to improve business planning to ensure resources presentation of the Area, increase are allocated to the strategic priorities professional skills within the industry and established by the Wet Tropics Man- enhance visitor experience in the Area agement Authority Board, through the 2013-18 Strategic Plan, and that progress • $32,557 from the NERP Tropical is regularly monitored. Ecosystems Hub for a project to facilitate communication of rainforest research to World Heritage funding the Queensland government agencies with the aim of maximising policy and In late 2013, the Commonwealth Minister management uptake. for the Environment, The Honourable Greg Hunt MP, demonstrated the Australian Queensland Terrestrial World government’s continuing support for the Heritage Review Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the role of the Authority through the provision In February 2014, The Honourable of a $13.4M World Heritage grant over Andrew Powell MP, Queensland Minister fi ve years 2013-18. This funding will for Environment and Heritage Protection enable the Authority to continue building announced a review of management partnerships that conserve, present and arrangements for Queensland’s terrestrial support the Wet Tropics World Heritage World Heritage properties, including Area, and bring benefi ts to the tourism the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. In industry, Traditional Owners, land manag- announcing the review, the Minister said ers, researchers and the wider community. that, “what is required is a more consistent model of management where we improve, New investments and funding simplify and maximise the protection of proposals the state’s World Heritage areas.” In late March 2014, a delegation of directors and The Authority continued to seek new representatives of advisory committees funding into projects that contribute to from the Wet Tropics World Heritage its strategic goals. During 2013-14, the Area joined their counterparts from the Authority secured the following additional Australia Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh), new investments: Fraser Island and the Gondwana Rainforest

36 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014 of Australia properties for a workshop, Submissions organised by the Department of Environ- Queensland Ecotourism Plan ment and Heritage Protection to discuss 2013-2020 issues and options for change. The Authority made a submission on the draft Queensland Ecotourism Plan International links 2013-2020. The Plan sought to provide As a World Heritage Area, the Wet tourism operators, government and other Tropics has an international profi le. The stakeholders with clear direction on how Authority was pleased to host a number of Queensland will leverage its competitive international visitors seeking to learn about advantage to become a bold, innovative, the values of the World Heritage Area and world leader in ecotourism. The Authority’s its system of management. Through this, submission highlighted its activities in the Authority contributes to strengthening relation to eco-tourism in the Wet Tropics global capacity for World Heritage and identifi ed opportunities for further management and helps Australia’s and development of the industry. Queensland’s reputation in support of the World Heritage Convention. The Authority Draft Great Barrier Reef Strategic also welcomes the opportunity to learn Assessment from the experience of visitors. The Authority provided detailed comments on the draft Great Barrier Reef Strategic The Authority’s contribution is often Assessment, focussing in particular on the in support of the Commonwealth case study on the management system for Department of the Environment or the the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. its contribution to reef protection. Creating linkages with other environment and heritage managers in Asia and the Joint Select Committee on Northern Pacifi c also represents a contribution Australia the Authority can make to Queensland’s In February 2014, the Authority prepared objective of sharing tropical expertise. a submission to the Australian Parliament’s Northern Australian Committee inquiry As an example, in August 2013 the into the development of Northern Authority hosted a delegation of Australia. The Committee considered offi cials from the Paraguay Environmental policies for developing the parts of Conservation Australian Leadership Australia which lie north of the Tropic of Awards Fellowships Programme to discuss Capricorn, spanning Western Australia, World Heritage management issues. Northern Territory and Queensland. Authority staff were pleased to share their experiences in relation to the Wet Tropics The Authority’s submission provided World Heritage Area and to learn of the a brief list of issues that the Authority approach Paraguay is taking to establish recommended be considered in tactical measures to effectively engage developing recommendations to communities in developing a strategy for parliament, focussed around World integrating environmental conservation Heritage, valuing national assets and and sustainable development. sustaining cultural landscapes.

In April 2014, the executive director was invited to appear as a witness at the Committee’s public hearing in

37 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Cairns. This provided an opportunity for Business Administration Authority to highlight the importance of Business planning systems the eco-tourism in the region; meaningful The Authority gives a high priority to indigenous participation; the critical need developing a business plan that creates for water planning and conservation the highest possible value for the Wet across the various landscapes and building Tropics community and stakeholders. The on tropical expertise and knowledge. The Authority is committed to developing and submission also stressed the fact that there adapting its own capabilities to ensure it are serious pest, weed and disease risks maintains capacity to meet the needs of affecting the natural values of northern the Australian and Queensland Govern- Australia that need attention, through a ments and the Wet Tropics community. combination of preventative measures, The Authority’s project management early detection as well as rapid responses approach encourages clear identifi cation to incursions. of outcomes, objectives and milestones. It Queensland Government requires purposeful allocation of staff and Environmental Offsets Framework other resources to organisational priorities The Authority provided comment on the and establishes a clear basis for organisa- Queensland Government Environmental tional performance management. offsets Framework discussion paper, in Financial management particular, on issues which may have implications in relation to protection and As the Authority is a Statutory Authority, management of the Wet Tropics World its general-purpose fi nancial statements Heritage Area under the Wet Tropics World details for 2013-2014 are incorporated in Heritage Protection and Management the overall Department of Environment Act 1993, and the application of the Wet and Heritage Protection fi nancial Tropics Management Plan 1998. statements. Total funding of $5M for 2013-2014 was provided to the Authority, Australian Heritage Strategy principally by the Australian and Queens- The Authority prepared a submission on land Governments, and supplemented by the draft Australian Heritage Strategy in other external investment. The Authority June 2014. The submission highlighted realised an operating surplus of $284,000. the need for the Australian Government A summary of the Authority’s operating to play a continuing and active leadership statement for 2013-2014 is provided in role in relation to World Heritage and Table 1. National Heritage places. This included policy, planning and regulation in national The Australian Government’s allocation to and international contexts; ensuring effec- the Authority for 2013 -14 was $3M. These tive governance systems are established; funds were allocated to the Authority’s ensuring establishment and effective programs. The Queensland Government, implementation of national coordination of through the Department of Environment heritage management systems; identifying, and Heritage contributed $1.8M to the listing and promoting heritage places; Authority to support management of ensuring that appropriate expertise is the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. available to support heritage conservation These funds were then allocated to the and management, and support for World Department of National Parks, Recreation, and National heritage place management Sport and Racing for on-ground and fi eld through provision of adequate funding. management services.

38 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Table 1: WET TROPICS MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY OPERATING STATEMENT Controlled Revenue and Expenses Notes 2013-14 2012-13

REVENUE $'000 $'000

Revenue from Government Payments for outputs 1,922 1,796 Asset assumed/liabilities transferred 1 232 0 Sub-total Government Revenue 2,154 1,796

Own Source Revenue User charges 6 Grants and other contributions 3,083 3,173 Taxes fees and fines Gain on disposal of fixed assets Other revenue Interest Sub-total own source revenue 3,083 3,179

TOTAL REVENUE 5,237 4,975

EXPENSES $'000 $'000 Operating Expenses Organisational units BBA Business Management 2 4,834 2,5171 BBB Communities and Partnerships 267 BBC Planning and Conservation 723 BBD QPWS - WTMA Partnership Agreement 1,792 Sub-total operating expenses 4,834 5,299

Non-Operating Expenses Depreciation 3 119 4 Asset write-downs/Loss on disposal Sub-total Non-operating expenses 119 4

TOTAL EXPENSES 4,953 5,303 OPERATING RESULT 284 -328

Notes: 1 The goods received below fair value transaction relates to the offi ce fi t out provided at no cost to the Wet Tropics Management Authority for new accommodation in Cairns, this is a non-cash expense. 2 The Authority previously reported by 4 Organisational units. We now report by one organisational unit BBA which allocates budgets to goals within 4 programs. 3 The increase in depreciation predominantly relates to the offi ce fi t out described in note 1. This is a non-cash expense.

39 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Audits Workplace health and safety Three operational audits were conducted The Authority adheres to the Queensland by PGL Financial Services Pty Ltd in 2013 Government’s health and safety -2014 for Commonwealth Funds received. management systems and procedures. The Authority recorded no accidents for Overseas travel 2013-14. Regular workplace health and There were no overseas trips by Authority safety inspections are conducted with no staff during 2013-2014. signifi cant issues arising. Authority staff attended regular education, awareness Staffi ng and contractors and training sessions to ensure current At 30 June 2014, the approved staff accreditations are maintained. All fi eld and establishment of the Authority totalled 22 offi ce based staff received training that permanent positions of which three were is mandatory or required to meet their vacant and 2 temporary positions of which legislative requirements. one was vacant. Staff training and professional Contract staff supplemented staff development resources during the year to provide a The Authority is committed to developing range of services. These services included the capability of its employees and rec- Information Technology, conservation, ognises that training and development is tourism activities and administrative critical for delivering government priorities, support. Table 2 shows expenditure on objectives, and outcomes; developing consultancies and contractors for 2013- high performing teams and the attraction 2014 compared to the previous fi nancial and retention of employees. In 2013-14 year. the Authority developed a training and professional plan for all staff, allocating $40,000 to implement. All training needs were identifi ed through individual Perfor- mance and Development Plans.

Table 2: EXPENDITURE ON CONTRACTS 2013-2014 2012-2013 EXPENDITURE $ $

Consultancies by Category * Management 0 0 TOTAL 0 0 Contract staff by Program* Business Management 9622 10,095 Communities and Partnerships 32,102 61,117 Planning and Conservation 0 5942 Landscape Connectivity 0 96,227 Tramp Ants Wet Tropics 0 233,000 TOTAL 41,724 406,381 * Excludes DNPRSR expenses incurred against the annual QPWS/Wet Tropics Management Authority Partnership Agreement.

40 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Equal employment opportunity Wet Tropics volunteers and internships All recruitment and selection recom- The Authority recognises that volunteers mendations are monitored and reviewed make a valuable contribution to the to ensure compliance with Queensland organisation and as such, is committed Government policies and procedures to planned, supported and appropri- including current human resources direc- ately managed volunteer arrangements. tives. All appointments during 2013-2014 During 2013-14 the Authority hosted complied with directives and no equal four graduate placements via formal employment opportunity complaints were arrangements through the Aurora (Native received. At 30 June 2014 the Authority Title Internship) Program, and one Masters had 12 females and 8 males on staff and 4 student through James Cook University’s positions vacant. Table 3 gives a profi le of Professional Placement program. The the Authority’s staff. Authority is pleased to continue to provide support for a regular work experience opportunity through ARC Disability Services. This placement enables people with a disability to actively participate in the workplace.

Table 3: EMPLOYMENT BY GENDER, OCCUPATIONAL STREAM AND SALARY Employment by gender and occupational stream as at 30 June 2014 (based on actual occupants) STREAM Female (%) Male (%)

Administration and Senior Executive Service 11 (55) 4 (20) Professional 1 (5) 3 (15) Technical 0 1 (5) Operational 0 0 TOTAL 12 (60) 8 (40)

Employment by gender and salary level as at 30 June 2014 (based on substantive positions) SALARY RANGE Female (%) Male (%)

$179,433 + 1 (5) $103,846 - $109,831 2 (10) $93,728 - $100,504 1 (5) $83,765 - $89,619 2 (10) 3 (15) $73,006 - $79,353 5 (25) 1 (5) $62,998 - $69,272 3 (15) $53,280 - $59,411 2 (15) TOTAL 12 (60) 8 (40)

41 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

Terms and Abbreviations

AC Companion of the Order of Australia ARC Australian Research Council ATE Australian Tourism Exchange ATH Australian Tropical Herbarium AWHAC Australian World Heritage Advisory Committee AWHIN Australian World Heritage Indigenous Network CBD Central Business District CCC Community Consultative Committee CFOC Caring for our Country Cr Councillor CVA Conservation Volunteers CMA Cooperative Management Agreement Commonwealth Act Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area Conservation Act 1994 CSIRO Commonwealth Scientifi c, Industry and Research Organisation CSLG Conservation Sector Liaison Group DNPRSR Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing DTMR Department of Transport and Main Roads EHP Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (Queensland) EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 GCL Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu GIS Geographic Information System ha Hectare ILUA Indigenous Land Use Agreement IPA Indigenous Protected Area IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature JCU James Cook University MoU Memorandum of Understanding NERP National Environment Research Program NiE News in Education NGO Non-government organisation NQ North Queensland NRM Natural Resource Management NTRB Native Title Representative Bodies PBC Prescribed Body Corporate OUV Outstanding Universal Value QITE Queensland Indigenous Tourism Enterprise QPWS Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service QTIC Queensland Tourism Industry Council Queensland Act Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993 RAPA Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples Alliance RFK Interactive Key to Australian Tropical Rain Forest Plants

42 ANNUAL REPORT 2013 – 2014

RNTBC Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate SAC Scientifi c Advisory Committee STIG Strategic Tourism Investment Grants TERN Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network The Area Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area The Authority Wet Tropics Management Authority The Plan Wet Tropics Management Plan 1998 TREAT Trees for Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands TQUAL Tourism Quality (grants program) TTNQ Tourism Tropical North Queensland UNESCO United Nations Educational Scientifi c and Cultural Organisation Warrama Corroborees involving a number of tribes WHA World Heritage Area WTMA Wet Tropics Management Authority

43

Mesophyll rainforest, Hull River floodplain © Dan Metcalfe Front cover: Mesophyll rainforest, Hull River Front cover:

Level 1 15 Lake Street Cairns Corporate Tower Cairns 4870 PO Box 2050 Cairns 4870 Ph 07 4052 0555 | Fax 07 4031 1364 [email protected] fl www.wettropics.gov.au oodplain © Dan Metcalfe