5.

5.1 Introduction

Parramatta Local Government Area occupies an area of 60 square kilometres, straddling the upper reaches of the , in eastern parts of the western region. There is a marked difference in landscape type between those areas to the north and south of the Parramatta River. To the south and west, undulating Wianamatta shales of the Fairfield Basin are broken by low-lying fingers of Quaternary alluvium along the major creek lines such as Prospect Creek, Duck River, the upper parts of Creek and their tributaries. A small sandstone outcrop along an upper section of Duck River has little impact on topography, but is reflected in the disjunct occurrence of sandstone species. To the north of the river the - interface is marked by steep rises. Small remnants of Wianamatta shales occur on ridge-tops and deep valleys are incised into Hawkesbury sandstone along creeks draining from the plateau.

Soil landscapes reflect this variation in geology across the LGA. To the south and west the dominant soil landscape on the shales is , with Birrong on the alluvium in drainage lines along the creeks. In the north-east beyond the still undulating shale and Blacktown soil landscape close to the river, the edge of the Hornsby Plateau produces a complex mosaic of soil landscapes including the shale-based Glenorie on the ridges, sandstone-based Gymea and Hawkesbury on the slopes and in the valleys, and patches of Lucas Heights associated with outcropping Mittagong Formation lying between Wianamatta shale and Hawkesbury Sandstone. In the northwest, on the edge of the Cumberland Plain, rolling hills of predominantly Ashfield Shale occur with soils of the Luddenham soil landscape.

5.2 Remnant Native Vegetation in Parramatta

The Parramatta district has been extensively developed for residential, retail and industrial land• uses. Approximately 280 ha (4.7% of the LGA area) of bushland remains, restricted to narrow corridors along creek systems and in isolated recreational reserves. Such remnants are threatened by weed invasion, disturbance and further clearing. At a mapping scale of 1:100 000 (Benson 1992, Benson & Howell 1994) only the larger sites are recognised. Table 1 lists these and additional remnants identified by local field surveys.

5.3 Biodiversity

5.3.1 Communities

The bushland remnants of the Parramatta LGA, although comprising less than 5% of the original vegetation cover, represent a diverse range of plant communities. Vegetation mapping at a 1:100 000 scale (Benson 1992, Benson & Howell 1994) identified Gully Forest (lOag), Blue Gum High Forest (6b) and Shale/Gravel Transition Forest (9d). Field surveys indicate, however, that a considerable level of local biodiversity exists within these vegetation types. Bushland mapped as Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (lOag), for example, contains several quite

141 Table 5.1 Remnant Bushland in Parramatta LGA

Sydney Water Property 8 ha total Owned by but Open Space (6a) (5 ha in surplus to their needs Blacktown) Third Settlement Reserve 4 Public reserve Open Space (6a)

United Centenary Centre 27 Private land, Grand United Friendly 2(a) residential, Proposed Society Open-space along creek (6.4 ha) Bundilla Scout Camp 2.5 Leased Crown land, Council CCM Open Space (6a)

Substantial corridor along edge of creek between Fletcher Close and Hood St., Beamis Road & Balfour St. and near O'Briens Road.

Quarry Branch Creek Corridor

Moxham Park & Curtin Reserve 32.5 Public reserve Open-space (6a) Winston Kindelan Road Reserve 2.5 Public reserve Open-space (6a)

Buckleys Road hillside remnants c. 3 Private land, CL & LR Peck P/L Residential (2a) Restricted development Area Parramatta District Parramatta Park c. 90 Crown land, Care of Trust Open-space (6a) Reserve 93 Crown land, Council CCM Open-space (6a)

Parramatta River foreshores, e.g. Public reserve ?Open-space (6a) George Kendall Reserve

Subiaco Creek/Dundas Valley Corridor Subiaco/Ponds Reserve 30 Public reserve Open space (6a)

Rapanea Community Forest 3.6 Public reserve Open-space (6a)

Cox's Park & Galaringi Park c.20 Public Reserve Open-space (6a) Upper Ponds Creek Reserve 1.4 Public reserve Open-space (6a)

Edna Hunt Sanctuary 4 Public Reserve Open space (6a)

Vineyard Creek 28 Public Reserve Open space (6a) Duck River Corridor Duck River Reserve 20 Public reserve (6a) recreation

Campbell Hill Pioneer Park 5 Public reserve (6a) recreation distinct plant communities, reflecting significant local variability of geology, soils and topography. Additional communities recognised at this finer scale include Cumberland Plain Woodlands, River-

142 flat Forest and Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest. A complete listing and description of plant communities are presented in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Plant Communities in Parramatta LGA

Blue Gum High Eucalyptus sal igna Wianamatta Shale Broad ridges Rapanea Forest & Forest Galaringi -Coxs Park (6b) (Dundas Valley), Mobbs Hill (Carlingford)

Turpentine- Syncarpia glomulifera Wianamatta Shale Ridges Coxs Park, Iron bark Forest (90)

Grey Box Wianamatta Shale Flat to Centenary Centre Woodland (JOe) undulating

Grey Box- Eucalyptus moluccana Wianamatta Shale Hilly to Kindelan Road Reserve, Ironbark undulating Winston Heights P.S., Woodland (I0d) Centenary Centre

Western Wianamatta Shale/ Slopes above Centenary Centre, Curtin Shale/Sandstone Sandstone transition, creek Reserve, Bundilla Scout Transition Forest Eucalyptus eugenioides Blacktown- Camp, Palestine Park. A ngophora floribunda Luddenham interface Eucalyptus sclerophylla

Eucalyptus fibrosa Wianamatta Shale Sandstone Duck River, Campbell Eastern Shale Eucalyptus moluccana with Sandstone &/or strata below Hill Pioneer Park /Sandstone Eucalyptus punctata Tertiary alluvial surface with Transition Forest influence/ local outcrops Blacktown & Birrong

Shale/Gravel Eucalyptus moluccana Wianamatta Gently Transition Forest Eucalyptus fibrosa Shale/Tertiary undulating (9d) Alluvium/ terraces Blacktown & B

River-flat Forest Quaternary Creek-flats e.g. (Blue Gum Open- Eucalyptus tereticornis alluvium with Third Settlement Res., forest) sandstone influence Centenary Centre, Lower (9t) Quarry Branch Ck. & Subiaco Ck.

Sydney Eucalyptus pilularis Hawkesbury Gullies & Moxham Park, Lake Sandstone Gullv Syncarpia glomulifera Sandstone with clay sheltered Parramatta Forest (1Oag) enrichment! Gymea slopes (i) Open-forest Angophora costata

143 Sydney Backhousia myrtifolia, Hawkesbury Lower, Centenary Centre, Sandstone Gully Acmena smithii, Sandstone with clay sheltered Moxham Park, Bundilla Forest (I Oag) Pittosporum undulatum enrichment! slopes often Scout Camp, Lake (ii) closed-scrub/ Rapanea variabilis Gymea fringing moist Parramatta, Subiaco Creek closed- forest Ligustrum spp. gullies

Sandstone Angophora costata Hawkesbury Exposed Lake Parramatta Ridgetop Open- Syncarpia glomulifera Sandstone higher slopes forest!Woodland ( JOar)

Sandstone Hawkesbury Exposed Bundilla Scout Camp Ridgetop Eucalyptus sclerophylla Sandstone/ higher slopes Woodland (IOar) Gymea

Estuarine Avicennia marina Quaternary alluvium Estuarine Parramatta River Complex (4a) Aegiceras corniculatum mudflats foreshores

Freshwater Typha orientalis Quaternary alluvium Low-lying Lake Parramatta, wetlands (28a) Juncus usitatus sites, often in Duck River, Persicaria spp. drainage lines Centenary Centre Alisma plantago- or at edge of aquatica lake

Biodiversity conservation should aim to conserve representative samples of a comprehensive range of plant communities and associated species. Most of the communities that occur in the Parramatta LGA are limited in their distribution and are poorly conserved in western Sydney. This particularly applies to Blue Gum High Forest, Ironbark Woodland, River-flat Forest and Shale/Sandstone Transition woodland. The upper catchment of Subiaco Creek and Dundas Valley contains the largest surviving remnant of Blue Gum High Forest in western Sydney. The sandstone communities are also of high conservation significance. Although generally considered to be well conserved in the Sydney region, this is in terms of total area and does not take into consideration comprehensiveness, adequacy and representativeness of reserves. The sandstone communities of the Parramatta LGA are floristically distinct and reflect local conditions of climate, geology, soil and topography. The strong shale influence on the sandstone flora is of particular local interest and not well represented in the larger sandstone reserves around Sydney.

5.3.2 Plant Species

Some 520 native plant taxa have been recorded from the Parramatta LGA, comprising c. 40% of the total number of taxa recorded in western Sydney. Those that are considered to be significant species (with particular conservation value) are presented in appendix 5.1 and include a total of c. 210 species considered vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney. There are c. 33 species of particular regional significance (REG) and 6 taxa of national and/or state significance.

ROTAP/TSC Act species Acacia pubescens (3VCa) Epacris purpurascens var. purpurascens (2KC-)

144 Hibbertia nitida (2RC-) Lomandra brevis (2RC-) Callistemon linearifolius (2RCi) Deyeuxia appressa (E 1)

Of the many regionally significant species the following are of particular interest:

Pimelea curviflora var. curviflora - An uncommon local species endemic to the Hornsby plateau, often in shale/sandstone transition areas. Nomination is recommended in the UBBS report for listing under the TSC Act (1995).

Melodinus australis - A rainforest climber only known to be recorded from one site in western Sydney, from Toongabbie Creek in the Parramatta district. It was recorded between 1965 and 1970 and may now be locally and regionally extinct.

Stackhousia muricata and Lepidium pseudohyssopifolium are recorded from the Centenary Centre site along Toongabbie Creek. Both species are rare in western Sydney.

Eucalyptus saligna "Sydney Blue Gum". Vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney, the pure form of this species is also at its southern limit along Toongabbie Creek. All populations south of are believed to hybridise with E. botryoides.

Eucalyptus punctata "Grey Gum" - A small fruited form of this species is found along Toongabbie Creek. This form will soon be described (as E. punctata ssp. wianamatticai to distinguish it from the more typical form. The small-fruited form occurs on shale or in shale/sandstone transition zones, chiefly in the Sydney district. Previous collections from Springwood, Beecroft, Dundas and Ryde are mostly old collections dating back to the end of the last century and many of these sites are now developed. There is one historic record from Parramatta collected by H.Deane in 1886, however, the precise locality is unknown.

Remnant native vegetation in the Parramatta LGA is clearly important for biodiversity conservation both in western Sydney and within the local area.

Table 3 summarises the numbers of significant species recorded from different remnant vegetation precints within the Parramatta LGA. The largest number of significant species are recorded from the Toongabbie Creek/Quarry Branch Creek remnants, closely followed by Duck River/Campbell Hill, Toongabbie/Winston Hills district and Lake Parramatta.

145 Table 5.3 Significant Species in Remnant Bushland Precints in Parramatta LGA

Toongabbie Ck / Quarry Branch Creek purpurascens

Winston Hills / Toongabbie None 4 c.SO

Lake Parramatta Reserve 200 Epacris purpurascens 6 c.40 Hibbertia nitida

Subiaco Creek/Ponds Creek Lomandra brevis 45 Dundas Valley

Duck River/Campbell Hill 381 Acacia pubescens 5 88 Callistemon linearifolius

146 5.4 Bushland Remnants of Conservation Significance

5.4.1 Toongabbie Creek Corridor

Toongabbie Creek is within the Upper Parramatta River Catchment. In comparison to other creeks within the catchment it still has a reasonably intact vegetation corridor, however, forested areas close to the creek are threatened by weed infestation. Originally River-flat Forest and Sandstone Gully Forest would have grown along the creek with Shale/SandstoneTransition Forest on the middle and higher slopes. On the ridge tops and extending on to the plain, both Grey Box and Ironbark Woodland communities would have been common. Today much of this vegetation pattern has been lost to development, particularly on the ridges and middle to upper slopes. The forests along the creeks have largely survived but have been greatly modified by clearing and weed invasion. Nevertheless all surviving remnants along Toongabbie Creek are considered to be of high local, regional and state conservation significance. These remnants continue to be threatened, however, by clearance, residential development and flood mitigation works.

Third Settlement Reserve

Site Along Toongabbie Creek below Oakes Road.

Vegetation A highly modified remnant of Blue Gum River-flat Forest survives in this reserve. The original vegetation cover has been extensively cleared with scattered trees, shrubs and isolated clumps of native vegetation surviving. Much of the area is regularly mown. The dominant trees are Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. saligna, Angophora floribunda and with Eucalyptus eugenioides on the upper slopes. Associated shrub species scattered through the reserve include Acacia parramattensis, A.implexa, A.decurrens, Afalcata, Breynia oblongifolia, Bursaria spinosa and Rapanea variabilis.

Some of the larger patches of vegetation are undergoing bush regeneration and have a dominant native shrub and groundcover flora. Mesic species such as Backhousia myrtifolia, Pittosporum revolutum and Notelaea longifolia are regenerating well in the shrub layer and Microlaena stipoides, Einadia trigonos, Wahlenbergia communis, Cotula australis, Themeda australis and Cymbopogon refractus are common in the groundcover. There has been also been some planting of locally indigenous species.

Areas adjacent to Toongabbie Creek have been invaded by exotic species with relatively few native dominant. Native species persisting include Callistemon citrinus, Persicaria hydropiper, Juncus usitatus. Samolus valerandii and Lomandra longifolia.

Species Richness Some fifty native species have been recorded from the site. despite a history of clearance and mowing. This reflects the persistent nature of many native species and the positive effects of bush regeneration at the site. A relatively high proportion of these are significant species.

147 Conservation Status River-flat Forest is an endangered community at national, state, regional and local levels. No examples are conserved in western Sydney. Although the remnant is degraded due to a long history of clearing and mowing, the various structural levels are intact at various sites and a significant part of the original species composition retained. Such sites have been shown to have considerable regeneration potential.

There are 3 species of regional significance (REG), and 32 additional species considered vulnerable in western Sydney.

Regionally Significant Calystegia sepium Chenopodium pumilio Eucalyptus punctata subsp. wianamattica (ms)

The reserve forms an integral part of a vegetation corridor along Toongabbie Creek of both regional and local significance.

Threats and Limitations The main threats to remnant bushland at the Third Settlement Reserve are competition from weeds, mowing and physical damage from recreational activities. Bush regeneration is currently being undertaken in the reserve by a locallandcare group with promising results.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Appropriate protection and management of the reserve as an integral part of a vegetation corridor along Toongabbie Creek. While degraded it has all structural levels intact and contains endangered River-flat Forest. • Protection of vulnerable and regionally significant plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Rezoning of the reserve to an appropriate zone to achieve environmental protection, including a riparian protection zone.

Management Options: • Reserve should be managed as part of the Toongabbie Creek vegetation corridor. • Bush regeneration sites should be protected by fencing and expanded to allow greater consolidation of isolated patches.

Third Settlement Park to Bundilla Scout Camp

Vegetation A narrow band of degraded River-flat Forest occurs on the northern bank of Toongabbie Creek, opposite the United Centenary Centre. The dominant tree species are Eucalyptus saligna (to 25 m high) and Angophora floribunda (to 20 m high) with occasional trees of Eucalyptus resinifera. The understorey has been extensively cleared in parts, however, many native shrubs survive including Acacia parramattensis, A.decurrens, A.implexa, Polyscias sambucifolia and Pittosporum undulatun. 148 Denser vegetation towards the Scout Camp contains many native shrubs, herbs and climbers, the species composition reflecting a sandstone influence. Native species include . Breynia oblongifolia, , Hydrocotyle laxiflora and Oplismenus imbecillus. The relatively fertile soils and moist environment along the creek provide excellent conditions for exotic weedy species. The Balloon Vine Cardiospermum grandiflorum is particularly common throughout this area. The groundcover in open areas is often dominated by Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum and in shaded areas by Wandering Jew Tradescantia albiflora.

Conservation Status Blue Gum River-flat Forest is considered to be endangered community on a national, state, regional and local level and is currently unconserved in western Sydney. This form of river-flat forest along Toongabbie Creek is dominated by Eucalyptus saligna, Angophorafloribunda and Eucalyptus lereticornis. There is -flat Forest remaining in the local area.

Of the native species recorded for the site, several species are considered vulnerable and inadequately conserved in Western Sydney including Eucalyptus saligna, E. punctata subsp. Wianamattica (ms), Omalanthus nutans, and Glycine microphylla.

Threats and Limitations The main threats to native species in this area are competition from weeds and, in one area, encroachment from gardens.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Appropriate protection and management of the reserve as an integral part of a vegetation corridor along Toongabbie Creek. While degraded it has all structural levels intact and contains endangered River-flat Forest. • Protection of vulnerable plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Rezoning of the reserve to an appropriate zone to achieve environmental protection, including a riparian protection zone.

Management options: • The site would respond well to bush regeneration and weed control.

Bundilla Scout Camp

Site Junction of Edison Parade and Reilleys Road, Northmead. At confluence of Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Branch Creek.

Size c. 2.5 ha

149 Vegetation Much of this site is cleared with scattered large trees of Eucalyptus saligna, E.resinifera, E.eugenioides and Angophorajloribunda, remnants of Blue Gum River-flat Forest Patches of denser bushland, however, still remain around the central cleared area and include a variety of vegetation types.

Eucalyptus saligna - Angophorajloribunda dominate the River-flat Forest along Toongabbie Creek. The understorey is largely dominated by exotic species including Pennisetum clandestinum and Cardiospermum grandiflorum.

A closed scrub community of Sydney Sandstone Dry Rainforest (Suballiance 30) occurs on the lower slopes above the river flat with dense stands of Backhousia myrtifolia, Ligustrum lucidum and L. sinense to 8m in height. While this vegetation type is significantly effected by weed growth, there are a number of mesic native species present including Pittosporum revolutum, Eustrephus latifolius, Morindajasminoides, Oplismenus imbecillus and Adiantum aethiopicum.

Scribbly Gum Woodland occurs on the upper slopes with Eucalyptus sclerophylla and Angophora bakeri. The shrub layer reaches a height of 2.5m and common species include Pittosporum undulatum, Kunzea ambigua, Notelaea longifolia and Daviesia ulicifolia. Native groundcover species include Dianella caerulea, Lepidosperma laterale, Lomandra obliqua and Echinopogon caespitosus.

Species Richness Sixty four native species were recorded at this site during a brief survey.

Conservation Status A rich site with three plant communities and over 60 native species reflecting a diversity of geology, soils and topography. The River-flat Forest community is of conservation significance at national, state, regional and local levels. The rainforest and Scribbly Gum Woodland are of particular interest at regional and local levels. Although occasional trees of Eucalyptus sclerophylla occur in local Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, this is the only known occurrence locally as a co• dominant. The closest record of Scribbly Gum Woodland elsewhere is near Cattai Creek at Kellyville (Baulkham Hills LGA).

Threats and Limitations Recreational activities, mowing and competition from weeds are the major threats to native species in this area.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Appropriate protection and management of the reserve as an integral part of a vegetation corridor along Toongabbie Creek. While degraded it has all structural levels intact and contains endangered River-flat Forest and regionally uncommon rainforest and sandstone communities.

Possible mechanism for conservation • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values. • Negotiation of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA) between landholders and NPWS.

150 Management options: • The site could be developed as a field study centre for the local area. • A plan of management is needed urgently with priorities for bush regeneration and weed control.

United Centenary Centre, Hammers Road

Site Situated on the southern side of Toongabbie Creek, this site has been well surveyed during recent years and the vegetation described in detail (James et.al. 1994, James 1996).

Size 27 ha

Land Tenure Private land.

Vegetation A diversity of plant communities are found at the site on alluvial, sandstone and shale substrates. Blue Gum River-flat Forest occurs on alluvial soils along Toongabbie Creek. The forest is dominated by large trees of Eucalyptus saligna, Angophora floribunda and the smaller trees and Backhousia myrtifolia. The understorey contains mesophytic shrubs including Polyscias sambucifolia, Breynia oblongifolia and Pittosporum revolutum as well as numerous vines. The ground layer is dominated by ferns including Adiantum hispidulum, Histiopteris incisa and Pteridium esculentum, grasses such as Stipa verticillata and moisture-loving herbs. Due to the fertile soils, unnatural flooding regimes and anthropogenic disturbance at the site, this community is under considerable threat from weed invasion, particularly from Cardiospermum grandiflorum "Balloon Vine", Sida rhombifolia "Paddy's Lucerne", Eragrostis curvula "African Lovegrass", Paspalum dilatatum and Hyparrhenia hirta "Cootatai Grass".

On the lower slopes of the creek, the soils have been locally enriched by the fertile, downwashed clay. These soils, in association with sheltered sandstone ledges or gullies, provide conditions suitable for rainforest species (Dry Rainforest -Suballiance 30) including Acacia elata "Cedar Wattle", Acacia smithii "Lillypilly" and Backhousia myrtifolia. Rainforest vines include Eustrephus latifolius, Parsonsia straminea and Sarcopetalum harveyanum.

The middle to upper slopes support a transitional Sandstone/Shale Open-Woodland community dominated by Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus puncata "Grey Gum" and Eresinifera "Red Mahogany" with localised occurrences of Eucalyptus sclerophylla "Scribbly Gum", Eucalyptus fibrosa "Broard-leaved Ironbark" and Eucalyptus eugenioides "Thin-leaved Stringybark". This richness of Eucalyptus species largely reflects the diversity of topographical features, geology and soils at the site. Rich alluvial deposits occur along the creek, sandstone outcrops on the lower slopes grading into more fertile, clay soils developed on Wianamatta Shale above. The floristic composition of the woodland communities indicates a distinct intergrading of sandstone and shale species. The understorey is dominated by grasses and herbs with extensive Eucalyptus regrowth and occasional shrubs of Bursaria spinosa. Grasses include Cymbopogon refractus "Barb Wire Grass", Themeda australis "Kangaroo Grass" and Eragrostis species. Herbs include Veronica plebeia, Calotis cuneifolia and Wahlenbergia gracilis.

151 On the upper slopes the soils become progressively more clayey and support Cumberland Plain Woodland dominated by Eucalyptus eugenioides, E. creba "Narrow-leaved Ironbark", E. moluccana "Grey Box" and E. tereticornis "Forest Red Gum". Understorey shrubs include Burarsia spinosa and Acaciafalcata. The grass and herb layer is again well-developed with Stackhousia species, Lomandra filiformis, Aristida species, Microlaena stipoides and Themeda australis.

In areas of impeded drainage small wetland sites are found. The vulnerable species "Cabbage Tree Gum" occurs locally in such sites. Water-loving herbs and sedges include Bolboschoenus caldwellii, Carex species, Cyperus species, Lythrum hyssopifolia, Epilobium billardierianum, Samolus valerandii and Persicaria species.

Species Richness Over 220 native plant species have been recorded from the site to-date. This is an outstandingly high level of species richness in relation to the size of the area.

Conservation Status The Centenary site is one of the larger remnants in the LGA. The Cumberland Plain Woodland, River-flat Forest communities and Shale/Sandstone Transition Communities are considered endangered at national, regional and local levels. The Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest has not been formally recognised prior to this survey. This community is inherently species-rich and confined to slopes in areas of transitional geology. It is inadequately conserved in western Sydney. Within the local area the Centenary Centre site is the largest, intact example of this community type known.

Some c. 67 native plant species (30% of the total number recorded) are considered to be vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney. There are several regionally significant species including Lepidium pseudohyssopifolium and Stackhousia muricata which are extremely rare in the Sydney district.

Also of particular interest are the following taxa: • Eucalyptus saligna "Sydney Blue Gum". Vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney, the pure form of this species is also at its southern limit along Toongabbie Creek. All populations south of Port Jackson are believed to hybridise with E. botryoides.

• Eucalyptus punctata "Grey Gum" - A small fruited form of this species is found along Toongabbie Creek. This form will soon be described (as E. punctata ssp. wianamattica) to distinguish it from the more typical form. The small-fruited form occurs on shale or in shale/sandstone transition zones, chiefly in the Sydney district. Previous collections from Springwood, Beecroft, Dundas and Ryde are mostly old collections dating back to the end of the last century and many of these sites are now developed. There is one historic record from Parramatta collected by H.Deane in 1886, however, the precise locality is unknown.

Threats and Limitations An application to develop the site for residential purposes has recently been provisionally passed by Parramatta City Council. The development would result in clearance of the Cumberland Plain Woodland and Transition Forest. An open-space corridor along the creek and below the 1:100 flood-line would remain, however, this is the most disturbed and weedy area of remnant bushland on-site. The size and shape of this corridor alone is incompatible with sustainability of the bushland.

152 Weed invasion is a serious problem in the open-space corridor along Toongabbie Creek. The fertile soils and unnatural flooding regimes combined with water pollution and anthropogenic disturbance have resulted in the invasion and dominance of weedy species including Paddy's Lucerne, Sida rhombifolia, Balloon Vine, Cardiospermurngrandiflorum, and Paspalum dilatatum. The soils become more infertile away from the river and weed invasion is not a serious problem upslope.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the endangered plant communities. • Protection of the transition of communities between the ridge and the creek. • Protection of vulnerable and regionally significant plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values. • Negotiation of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA) between landholders and NPWS.

Management options: • A plan of management should be prepared by council, covering the environmental values of the site. • Site should be managed as part of the Toongabbie Creek and riparian protection corridor.

Sydney Water Property

A brief summary of a Sydney Water property along Toongabbie Creek is included here based on information contained in a recent report by Urban Bushland Management Consultants (1997) for Parramatta City Council. The 8 ha site is located at 356 Old , Toongabbie at the boundary of the Parramatta and Blacktown LGAs.

The site was partly cleared for grazing in the past but today remnants of the original forest can be found along the creek, upper slopes and on the adjacent flats, with extensive areas of regrowth bushland at the forest margins and in patches scattered through the grassland. Some of the remnant trees are very large to 30+ m and are likely to be over 100 years old. Grey Box-Ironbark Woodland occurs in higher, well-drained areas dominated by Eucalyptus moluccana, E. tereticornis and E. crebra. Smaller trees and shrubs include Acacia decurrens, A. parramattensis and Bursaria spinosa. In southern parts of the site , E. resinifera and Angophorajloribunda are also associated with this community indicating a transitional area between the shale and sandstone. Associated understorey species include Leucopogonjuniperinus, Backhousia myrtifolia, Dodonaea triquetra and .

Red Gum-Cabbage Gum River-flat Forest occurs along the creek with Angophorajloribunda and Casuarina glauca as a co-dominants and occasional trees of Eucalyptus saligna. Understorey species include Acacia spp. and Bursaria spinosa.

The Grey Box-Ironbark Woodland, the Shale/Sandstone Transition Woodland and the River-flat Forest communities at the site are all considered to be rare and endangered plant communities at national, state and regional levels (CAR assessment). This site is of particular interest with transition communities evident both downslope from shale to sandstone and along the creek

153 between River Gum-Cabbage Gum River-flat Forest (typical of the alluvial flats on Wianamatta Shale) and Blue Gum River-flat Forest associated with sandstone geology and typical of the creek downstream from this site. Approximately 15 species recorded from the site are considered to be vulnerable and inadequately conserved.

Although the site has a history of clearance and disturbance, which is reflected in significant weed invasion and localised erosion, the remnant bushland is regenerating well. The area provides an important link in the existing wildlife corridor along Toongabbie and Quarry Branch Creek and should be protected accordingly by appropriate zoning.

5.4.2 Quarry Branch Creek Corridor

Quarry Branch Creek forms a younger, deeper water course which flows into Toongabbie Creek just below the Bundilla Scout Camp. It has cut through Hawkesbury Sandstone and supports a form of Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest. On the western side of the creek in Curtin Reserve, the remnant vegetation extends far enough away from the creek to preserve a small example of Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest and Ironbark woodland.

Moxham Park

Site Between Quarry Branch Creek and Whitehaven Road, Northmead.

Vegetation The bushland of this park comprises a Eucalyptus pilularis - Angophora jloribunda open forest consistent with Sandstone Gully Forest (1Oag). The tree layer reaches a height of c. 25m and includes the above species and , Eucalyptus punctata and E. sclerophylla. The height and density of trees of E. pilular is decreases on the upper slopes wheras E.sclerophylla becomes more common. Syncarpia glomulifera and are the dominant smaller trees and reach a height up to 15m.

The main tall shrubs (4-5m) are and Pittosporum undulatum with Callicoma serratifolia common along Quarry Branch Creek. A diversity of small shrubs (2m) are present with common species including Dodonaea triquetra, Breynia oblongifolia, Pittosporum undulatum, Kunzea ambigua, Micrantheum ericoides and Epacris pulchella. Common ground cover species are Lomandra 10ngifolia, L. obliqua, Pteridium esculentum, Dianella caerulea, Entolasia stricta and Themeda australis.

Species Richness Moxham Park is the most floristically diverse area in the Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Branch Creek corridor. second to the United Centenary Centre. Some 110 native species were recorded in the survey.

Conservation Status Sandstone communities are generally well conserved in outlying areas of the Sydney district, however, less than 6% are protected within western Sydney. Considerable diversity in both structure

154 and floristic composition within these communities is found with important implications for biodiversity conservation. There are currently no formal conservation areas designated to protect the sandstone communities in these eastern areas of western Sydney.

The ROTAP species, Epacris purpurascens var. purpurascens (2KC-).was recorded during the survey at Moxham Park. This species is of national significance and is also listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) at the state level. Epacris purpurascens was recorded at four locations within the reserve, however, populations are very small with only five or less plants at each location and seriously threatened by local disturbance.

Also of interest is a new record of the regionally significant Pimelea curviflora var. curviflora from the site. This species is endemic to sandstone areas of the Sydney district and inadequately conserved. It occurs in good numbers in Moxham Park, particularly in areas which appear to have been burnt in recent years. This is the only recent record of this species within the Parramatta LGA. There are also 7 additional species recorded from the site considered vulnerable in western Sydney.

Threats and Limitations The main threats to native species in Moxham Park are competition from weeds, recreational activities and the dumping of garden clippings. Numerous tracks have been made within the reserve and use of these is resulting in physical damage to vegetation in some areas. The largest population of Epacris purpurascens was located immediately next to a track and showed signs of physical damage, with one plant having recently died. The other occurrences were also close to tracks.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the ROTAP and TSC Act species. • Protection of regionally significant plant species. • Protection of riparian corridor

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • A plan of management should be prepared by council, covering the environmental values of the site. • ROTAP species require urgent protection by fencing and the closure of tracks in the close vicinity. • Longer-term management strategies for these species is required.

155 Curtin Reserve

Site Between Quarry Branch Creek and Dodson Crescent and Huxley Drive, Northmead.

Vegetation The reserve includes a small remnant oflronbark-dominated Shale/Sandstone Transition Woodland in the hilly section bordered by Dodson Crescent and Huxley Drive. The tree layer reaches a height of I8-25m and common species are Eucalyptusfibrosa, E eugenioides and Angophora floribunda with occasional trees of Eucalyptus punctata and E. globoidea. In a sparse shrub layer to 2 m, common species include Ozothamnus diosmifolius, Bursaria spinosa and Acacia falcata. The area is currently not mowed and good regeneration is apparent, particularly of the shrub Clerodendrum tomentosum at one particular site. The groundcover is dominated by Themeda australis, Aristida ramosa, Cymbopogon refractus, Euchiton sphaericus, Wahlenbergia spp. and Einadia trigonos.

Further northward the Ironbark becomes less common with Eucalyptus punctata and Angophora costata becoming dominant as the sandstone influence becomes stronger. The understorey is well developed and includes both shale and sandstone species.

Species Richness Over forty native species were recorded in this small area during a brief survey.

Conservation Status Transition Forest in shale/sandstone intergrade areas is considered an endangered community and poorly conserved in western Sydney and in the local area. The Ironbark dominated variant of this forest appears to be associated with higher land to the south. The Broad-leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus fibrosa and this subcommunity have not been recorded elsewhere within the Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Branch Creek corridor system.

Several species considered vulnerable in western Sydney are recorded from the site including Danthonia setacea, Glycine microphylla, Leucopogonjuniperinus, Einadia trigonos and Mentha diemenica.

Threats and Limitations Competition from weeds is the major threat to native species. The presence of sealed tracks means that physical damage from recreational activities is a potential threat.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the endangered plant community. • Protection of vulnerable plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • Natural regeneration should be encouraged through the exclusion of mowing and weed control.

156 • Existing corridors between remnant along Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Arm Creek have good regeneration potential and consideration should be given to undertaking this work.

Bundilla Scout Camp to Moxham Park

Vegetation The vegetation in this area is generally degraded. Scattered trees of Eucalyptus saligna occur along the creek with a foliage cover of approximately 10% and height up to 20m. Under this open tree layer is a dense layer of Ligustrum lucidum and L.sinense to 5m in height. Away from the creek Eucalyptus saligna becomes less common and the vegetation becomes a closed-scrub community dominated by exotic species such as Lantana camara and Ligustrum sinense. While Tradescantia albiflora is often the dominant groundcover species, many native species persist including several ferns including Adiantum aethiopicum, A. hispidulum and Doodia caudata var. caudata.

Species Richness Twenty four native species were recorded in this area during a brief study.

Conservation Status River-flat Forest is an endangered community on a national, regional and local level.

Several species considered vulnerable in western Sydney are recorded from the site, including two ferns (Doodia caudata var. caudata and Cyathea cooperi) which occur in heavily shaded areas next to Quarry Branch Creek.

Threats and Limitations Competition from weeds and the clearing of bushland behind houses are the major threats to native plants in this area. The vulnerable fern species occur immediately adjacent to Quarry Branch Creek and so would be susceptible to any pollutants in the creek.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the endangered plant community as an integral part of the Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Branch Creek system. • Protection of vulnerable plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • A plan of management should be prepared by council covering the environmental values of the site. A plan of management would address rehabilitation of the vegetation and weed control. • There should be no further clearing or modification of the vegetation within the corridor system.

157 5.4.2 Parramatta District

Lake Parramatta Reserve

Site Between North Rocks Road and Drive,

Size 93 ha

Vegetation The vegetation of Lake Parramatta Reserve has been mapped at 1:100 000 as Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (10ag) by Benson & Howell (1994). At a finer scale the National Trust (1990) has described and mapped four plant communities.

1. Open-forest dominated by Eucalyptus pilularis, Syncarpia glomulifera and Angophora costata is found associated with shale in higher parts of the reserve and on sandstone slopes with a strong shale influence. A diverse understorey of both mesophytic and xeromorphic species is found.

2. Areas fringing moist gullies and watercourses have a distinct understorey community with mesophytic species such as Backhousia myrtifolia, Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Glochidion ferdinandi, Rapanea variabilis, Omalanthus nutans and Notelaea longifolia and numerous climbers.

3. The open-forest communities intergrade with open-woodland, with the latter becoming dominant on the exposed sandstone slopes. The canopy species of the open-woodland are similar with Angophora costata being particularly common. Smaller trees include Angophora bakeri, Ceratopetalum gummiferum and Allocasuarina torulosa.

4. Wetland communities are found around the lake with native species such as Juncus usitatus, Alisma plantago-aquatica and Typha orientalis.

Species Richness Approximately 200 native species have been recorded from the reserve (Coveny 1960-65, James 1989, National Trust 1990, UBBS 1996).

Conservation Status Lake Parramatta Reserve is the largest bushland remnant surviving in the Parramatta LGA. The relatively large size increases its value for both regional and local biodiversity conservation and improves the potential long-term viability of the remnant. The reserve is diverse in both plant communities and species. It is representative of the sandstone flora (and shale/sandstone transitions) of the central and eastern districts of western Sydney which are both restricted in distribution and unconserved. An area of remnant bushland adjoining the reserve, within the Kings School, is also likely to be significant (at the shale/sandstone interface) and requires detailed field survey.

The survey has confirmed the presence of Epacrispurpurascens var. purpurascens, a ROTAP species currently coded 2KC- and listed under the TSC Act (1995). Two groups of this species were recorded in the vicinity of the creek which flows into Lake Parramatta from the Winbourn Road/Kings School area. The larger group of approximately 100 plants does not appear to be 158 subject to any threats at this time. The smaller group of three was recorded quite close to the creek which flows into Lake Parramatta from the vicinity of The Kings School. Degradation of creek water quality or the transport of nutrients or weed propagules in this creek would have the potential to affect this group of plants. A second species of national and state significance, Hibbertia nitida (2RC-), recorded by Coveny in 1965, has not been found in recent surveys.

There are c.4O species considered to be vulnerable in western Sydney, a significant 20% of the total number of species recorded from the reserve. There are are also several taxa of regional significance (REG) and new records for the reserve (NR.):

Austramyrtus tenuifalia (REG) Lepidosperm gunnii Pomaderrisferruginea Cassinia langifalia (REG) (REG) (NR) Epacris purpurascens (REG) Asplenium australasicum Smilax australis (NR) Hibbertia nitida (REG) (NR) Lasiapetalum rufum (REG) Asplenium flabellifolium (NR) Psilatum nudum (NR) Drosera peltata (NR)

Threats and Limitations Competition from weeds and recreational pressures are the major threats to bushland in Lake Parramatta Reserve. Areas most affected by weeds are bushland margins, particularly those close to residential areas, and along water courses. Areas adjacent to some tracks within the reserve are effected to a lesser extent. Generally, bushland that is not next to a watercourse, a bushland edge or a disturbed area are weed free. Bushland regeneration is currently being undertaken in a variety of locations within the reserve. The only longer-term solution to the weed problem, however, is to reduce nutrient runoff and improve water quality generally within the catchment.

The reserve is a popular recreational area. The demand for walking tracks, picnic and play areas is likely to negatively impact on the conservation values. of the reserve unless effectively controlled.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Permanent protection of the site because of its large size, diversity and presence of ROTAP and . TSC Act species. • Protection of regionally significant plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values. • The establishment of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement between Parramatta City Council and NPWS could be considered.

Management options: • Any management plan should clearly identify and protect the conservation values of the reserve. • Bush regeneration within the reserve should be continued as an on-going activity. The local community could be encouraged to become involved in such work. • Improving water quality within the Upper Parramatta River Catchment will reduce long-term maintenance costs and protect the native vegetation from displacement by exotic weedy species.

159 5.4.3 Subiaco Creek/Ponds Creek (Dundas Valley)

The remnant bushland of Subiaco Creek/Dundas Valley has been mapped by Benson & Howell (1994) as Sydney Sandstone Gully forest (1Oag)with one small remnant at Cox Park identified as Blue Gum High Forest (6b). While many sandstone gully species are present in these bushland remnants, a significant component of shale species is also found. The trees, in particular, indicate a very strong shale influence in these remnants with such species as Eucalyptus saligna, E. pilularis and E. resinifera among the dominant species. It would probably be more accurate to classify the upper catchment Subiaco Creek/Dundas Valley remnants as Blue Gum High Forest and those in the lower catchment as a form of creek-flat forest.

Coxs Park, Galaringi Park, Rapanea Community Forest and Upper Ponds Creek

Site Dundas Valley inlcuding reserves along Evans Road (Carlingford) and reserve around Ponds Creek, between Honiton Avenue West and southern end of McKillop Place.

Vegetation Blue Gum High Forest has developed on Wianamatta Shale soils with localized outcroppings of Hawkesbury Sandstone. Canopy species include Eucalyptus saligna, E. pilular is, Syncarpia glomulifera, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita and E. tereticornis. The understorey is well developed with characteristically mesic species including Glochidionferdinandi, Pittosporum revolutum, Notelaea longifolia and Rapanea variabilis. Numerous climbers and herbs thrive in the moist conditions with Morindajasm inoides, Cissus spp., Siegesbeckia orientalis and Oplismenus aemulus being common. Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest also occurs along the creeks.

At Coxs Park a rare remnant of Turpentine-Ironbark Forest survives dominated by Syncarpia glomulifera and Eucalyptus paniculata.

Species Richness There are 146 native plant species recorded for the Rapanea Community Forest, c. 85 species for Coxs Park and over 100 species for Galaringi Park.

Conservation Status Blue Gum High forest has been extensively cleared in the Sydney district with less than 0.9% of the original area remaining. It is considered to be an endangered plant community at national, state, regional and local levels and currently unconserved in the region. Rapanea Forest and Galaringi Park are the largest, surviving intact remnants in western Sydney. Turpentine-Ironbark Forest is also considered an endangered community and is currently unconserved in the region. This is the only recorded site of this forest type in the Parramatta LGA.

The ROTAP species, Lomandra brevis was recorded from the site in 1993. An interesting and disjunct record of the ROTAP species Zieria involucrata, at Coxs Park, needs confirmation. Approximately 45 species are considered vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney (see Table 5.4 and Appendix 5.1) and five species are of particular regional significance (REG):

160 Lomandra brevis Hakea gibbosa Kennedia prostrata Goodenia stelligera

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the endangered plant communities. • Protection of the ROTAP species. • Protection of vulnerable and regionally significant plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Negotiation of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA) between landholders and NPWS • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • Designation of the area as a council may be appropriate. • Encourage the continuation of bush regeneration work and incorporate this into a detailed management plan.

Subiaco/Ponds Reserve

Site Narrow corridor commencing at , Rydalmere, extending north and then east along Subiaco Creek, and also along Ponds Creek to Kissing Point Road.

Vegetation A range of communities are found within the corridor including River-flat Forest, Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest on the slopes, a Scribbly Gum Woodland on the ridges and small patches of species characteristic of Sydney Sandstone Gully Closed-forest. Dominant canopy species include Eucalyptus saligna, Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera, Eucalyptus resinifera and Eucalyptus pilularis. The understorey is predominantly composed of both sandstone and shale species including Bursaria spinosa, Leucopogon juniperinus, Lomandra longifolia and Dianella caerulea.

Species Richness There are 92 native species recorded from the site..

Conservation Status Although the bushland along Subiaco and Ponds Creeks is small in area and degraded, it is representative of communities which are considered to be endangered in western Sydney. River-flat Forest, in its many forms, is particularly poorly conserved on national, state, regional and local levels. Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, once probably widespread within the Parramatta LGA, is now only found at a few sites including the United Centenary Centre at Toongabbie, which is threatened by development. Despite severe weed invasion a diverse range of native species representative of these communities survive.

161 Of the 92 native species recorded there are c. 10 species of regional conservation significance (including vulnerable taxa). Significant species for the Dundas Valley remnants and Mobbs Hill are listed in Table 5.4.

Threats and Limitations The main threat to all bushland remnants in the Subiaco Creek/Dundas valley area is weed invasion. Many areas are very degraded and the close proximity of houses, parks and nutrient-rich water in the creeks means that there will always be a high risk of weed infestation. Considerable bushland regeneration is curently being undertaken in the Subiaco Creek/Dundas valley remnants and flora surveys have been undertaken as a part of bushland management planning (National Trust 1992, Urban Bushland Management Ltd 1993). These surveys describe in greater detail the vegetation and plant species of reserves along Subiaco Creek, Upper Ponds Creek Reserve, Rapanea Community Forest and the plant species of Mobbs Hill Reserve. The flora of Cox Park and Galaringi Reserve has been recently documented by the Friends of Galaringi with assistance from the Ryde College of TAFE (Horticulture). These areas are to be amalgamated to form the Carlingford Botanic Parkland.

The effectiveness of bush regeneration has been clearly demonstrated in several locations in the local area. Significant increases in native species richness and successional changes towards a more natural vegetation structure is possible even in very degraded areas. The Rapanea Community Forest provides a good example of this. Prior to bushland regeneration this area was dominated by dense stands of Ligustrum lucidum and L. sinense along the creek and tangled Lantana camara up to Sm in height away from the creek (R.Buckney pers.comm.). This area now has over 140 native species and a complex vegetation structure dominated by native species.

Other threats to native vegetation include dumping of garden clippings and encroachment of gardens into reserve areas. This mainly occurs where backyards back onto reserves in locations not readily visible and infrequently used by members of the public. Mowing will need to be excluded from areas where native groundcover species are regenerating. There is also potential for physical damage to vegetation in areas where native vegetation is adjacent to active recreation areas.

162 Table 5.4 Subiaco CreeklDundas Valley Significant Species and New Records (recorded during UBBS)

Sites Key 1 Subiaco Creek, end of Myrtle Street, Rydalmere 2RC Rare or Threatened Australian 2 Subiaco Creek Elm Place to Hillman Avenue, Rydalmere Plant (ROTAP) 3 The Ponds Creek, end of Yawung Street, Dundas V Vulnerable in Western Sydney 4 Rapanea Community Forest, Brand Street, Dundas Valley NR New record.(UBBS) 5 Mobbs Hill Reserve, Carlingford 6 Coxs Park 7 Galaringi Park

Species Conservation Status/ Sites New Records Trees Eucalyptus acmenoides REG,V 3,4,6 Eucalyptus globoidea V 3 V 3 Eucalyptus paniculata V 4,6 Eucalyptus pilularis V 4 Eucalyptus saligna V 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 NR 3

PROTEACEAE Banksia serrata NR

RHAMNACEAE Alphitonia excelsa V 1,4

Shrubs Maytenus silvestris V 3,4

CHENOPODIACEAE Einadia trigonos V 6

EPACRIDACEAE Leucopogon juniperinus V 4, 5

EUPHORBIACEAE Omalanthus nutans V,NR 4,5

FABACEAE Platylobium formosum V 4,6 (Faboideae)

FABACEAE Acacia maidenii V 4 ()

MYRTACEAE Rhodamnia rubescens V,NR 4

PROTEACEAE Hakea gibbosa V 4 Lomatia myricoides V 4

RHAMACEAE Pomaderris discolor V 3

SAPINDACEAE Dodonaea triquetra NR 4

WINTERACEAE Tasmannia insipida V,NR 2

163 Herbs - Ferns BLECHNACEAE Doodia aspera V 4, 7

DENNSTAEDTIACEAE Histiopteris incisa V 4

OSMUNDACEAE Todea barbara V 4

PTERIDACEAE Pteris tremula V 4, 7

Monocotyledons CYPERACEAE Cyperus difformis V 4

Cyperus laev is V 7

LOMANDRACEAE Lomandra brevis 2RC,V 4,6

ORCHIDACEAE Dipodium punctatum V 4 Thelymitra ixioides V 4

POACEAE Danthonia racemosa V 7 Digitaria ramularis V 4,6 Poa affinis V 4 Stipa scabra V 4

TYPHACEAE Typha oriental is NR 1,4

Dicotyledons ASTERACEAE Cotula australis V 4 Senecio bippinatisectus V 7 Senecio lautus V 4 Solenogyne bellioides V 7

DILLENIACEAE Hibbertia dentata V 4

GOODENIACEAE Goodenia stelligera REG,V 6

LOBELIACEAE Lobelia alata V 4

PLANTAGINACEAE Plantago varia V 4

SOLANACEAE Solanum pungetium V 4

Climbers & Twiners CONVOLVULACEAE Convolvulus erubescens V 4,6

DILLENIACEAE Hibbertia scandens V 4,6

FABACEAE Keuned ia prostrata REG.V 4 (Faboideae) Glycine microphylla V 3,4

PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora herbertiana V 4 MENISPERMACEAE Sarcopetalum harveyanum V 4

164 5.4.4 Duck River /Campbell Hill Remnants

Vegetation communities of the southern part of the LGA contrast with the typical shale and sandstone flora of northern districts. Eastern Shale/ Sandstone Transition Forest is the dominant community occurring on Wianamatta Shale with a sandstone (and probably Tertiary alluvial) influence. These communities extend eastward into the Auburn LGA and south into Bankstown. Due to the contiguity of these southern remnants with neigbouring council areas, they are presented in both this report and also for the Auburn Study Area.

Duck River Reserve

Site Western side of Duck River, between Wellington Road and Everley Road (Parramatta LGA), adjoining Auburn LGA.

Size Approximately 20 hectares

Land Tenure Parramatta City Council

Vegetation Predominantly Eastern Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest with Eucalyptus moluccana, E.fibrosa and local concentrations of Eucalyptus punctata (near a sandstone outcrop in the central-eastern section of the reserve). There are also strong affinities with Shale/Gravel Transition Forest, possibly reflecting local deposits of Tertiary alluvium. The open-forest intergrades with River-flat Forest along Duck creek with Casuarina glauca, Eucalyptus amplifolia (in a shallow depression in the northwestern section) and Melaleuca species. An open scrub/open heathland of Melaleuca occurs in the northern and southwestern sections and areas of modified Themeda australis grassland (Price, 1979) also occur.

Species Richness A total of c. 267 native species have been recorded from the site. This high level of species richness reflects the diversity of the site and the comprehensiveness of detailed surveys over several years.

Conservation Status National & State Both Eastern Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest and River-flat Forest are considered to be endangered communities and currently unconserved or poorly conserved in western Sydney. The Duck Creek remnant is the largest intact surviving remnant of Eastern Transition Forest remaining.

The ROTAP species Acacia pubescens (3yea) occurs at the site. An old record of Callistemon linearifolius (2RCi) exists from early in the century, however, no recent collections are known (no specimens lodged with the NSW Herbarium). The grass Deyeuxia appressa is listed as an endangered species (E1)under the TSC Act (1995) but again no official herbarium collection is known.

165 Re~ional (western Sydney) Duck River is a primary site for Shale/Sandstone Tansition Forest as discussed above and important for a high proportion of regionally significant plants. There are over 85 native species (32% of the total number of species recorded for the site) which are considered to be vulnerable in western Sydney. Five of these, other than Acacia pubescens and Callistemon linearifolius, are of regional significance (in bold):

Trees Brachychiton populneus Eucalyptus amplifolia

Shrubs - Monocots Xanthorrhoea concava

Shrubs - Dicots Acacia stricta Asterolasia correifolia Bossiaea buxifolia Callistemon rigidus Chorizema parviflorum Cassinia arcuata Hibbertia pedunculata Lasiopetalum parviflorum Leucopo gon juniperinus Myoporum boninense ssp. australis Notelaea ovata Olearia viscidula Pomaderris ferruginea Pomaderris lanigera Rulingia dasyphylla

Herbs - Monocots Agrostis aemula Arthropodium minus Chloris truncata Chloris ventricosa Cyperus mirus Cyperus polystachyos Danthonia linkii Danthonia longifolia Danthonia racemosa Danthonia setacea Deyeuxia appressa Deyeuxia quadriseta Dichopogon strictus Diuris maculata Diuris sulphurea Echinochloa telmatophila Eragrostis parviflora Eragrostis phillipica Eriochloa pseudoacrotricha Gahnia melanocarpa Juncus homalocaulis Juncussarophorus Lepidosperma gunnii Paspalidium aversum Paspalidium criniforme Paspalum vaginatum Poa sieberiana Sporobolus elongatus Stipa rudis Stipa scabra Thysanotustuberosus Tricoryne simplex Typha domingensis

Herbs - Dicots Calotis lappulacea Centipeda minima Dysphania littoralis Einadia polygonoides Einadia trigonos Epilobium billardierianum Glossogyne tannensis Isotoma jluviatilis Linum marginale Mentha satureiodes Oxalis exilis Pelargonium inodorum Ranunculus lappaceus Rumex brownii Scaevola alb ida Senecio hispidulus Senecio quadridentatus Solenogyne bellioides Triptilodiscus pygmaeus Veronica calycina Viola betonicifolia Vittadinia cuneata Vittadinia muelleri Wahlenbergia stricta Zornia dyctiocarpa

Vines & Mistletoes - Dicots Amyema gaudichaudii Dendrophthoe vitellina eucalyptoides Polymeria calycina Sarcopetalum harveyanum

166 Local Government Area 1. This site contributes significantly to local native floristic biodiversity. There are many native species which are unique to this site within the Auburn study area. It is the largest remnant of Eastern Transition Forest in the local areas.

2. spiralis, which is generally rare east of Penrith LGA, is present.

3. This site is part of the relatively extensive Duck River open space managed by Parramatta and Auburn Councils. At present Auburn Council is replanting local native species throughout the corridor. This is likely to increase the viability and conservation value of this site and the many small widespread fragments that occur between the Sydney Water pipeline corridor and Parramatta River.

Threats & Limitations Despite the linear shape of the reserve much of the area is in good condition.Bush regeneration is being undertaken, however, weeds still dominate some areas eg, along Duck River and behind the factories. Other threats to the site are vandalism and fire-lighting, rubbish dumping and bike riding

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcomes: • Continued protection and management of the endangered plant community because of its large size, diversity and presence of ROTAP and TSC Act species. • Protection of regionally significant plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Negotiation of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA) between landholders and NPWS. • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • Re-establishment of bushland in all suitable parts of the Duck River parkland corridor to link Duck River Reserve to existing bushland fragments. Areas that have a significant proportion of native cover or shrub species should be given high priority for re-establishment of bushland. Suitable areas could be determined by use of the catchment plan of management being prepared for Council by EDAW (Aust) Pty Ltd, and by additional survey work.

• It may be possible to minimise vandalism damage at the site by raising public awareness of bushland values by local interpretive signs and broad scale education egopamplets, signs in suitable places and public involvement in restoration programs.

Campbell Hill Pioneer Park (east and west)

Site Campbell Hill Pioneer Park is located between Miller Road and Ferndell Street, Guildford. It adjoins Woodville Public Golf Course and the Sydney Water pipeline corridor. The park is divided in two by Campbell Hill Road. Significant bushland adjoins the park eastern section bushland on the Merck, Sharp and Dohme property.

167 Size Approximately 5 hectares of bushland in total (plus approx. 1 ha in Merck, Sharp and Dohme land)

Land Tenure Parramatta City Council, recreation reserve

Vegetation In contrast to the Duck River remnant, there appears to be little sandstone influence in the Campbell Hill area. Vegetation is most comparable to Shale/Gravel Transition Forest with a slightly different species composition in each half. This may relate to previous land use and management rather than natural processes. Both sections were formerly used for grazing.

Eucalyptus moluccana, E. fibrosa, Melaleuca decora and are very common to common in the eastern section. Eucalyptus amplifolia occurs at one location near a small creek. Eucalyptus moluccana is dominant in the western section. The main shrub species are (east) Melaleuca nodosa, Bursaria spinosa and Pultenaea villosa, and (west) Dodonaea triquetra, Notelaea longifolia and Bursaria spinosa.

Ground covers contain a mixture of native and introduced species including Themeda australis, Microlaena stipoides, Aristida sp., Pennesetum clandestina and Brunoniella australis.

Eucalyptus fibrosa and Eucalyptus moluccana are the dominants in the Merck, Sharp and Dohme property. The understorey mainly comprises Melaleuca nodosa, with a smaller proportion of Melaleuca decora and Melaleuca linariifolia. Two small specimens of Macrozamia spiralis occur. Ground cover is generally sparse.

Species Richness There are 114 native species recorded for the site.

Conservation Status National & State Shale/Gravel Transition Forest is considered to be a vulnerable community and inadequately conserved. The ROT AP species Acacia pubescens is recorded from the site. Populations are small with less than 10 individuals in the western section and less than 10 individuals in the adjoining Merck, Sharp and Dohme property.

Regional (western Sydney) Outlier remnants of Shale/Gravel Transition Forest are rare in eastern parts of the study area and inadequately conserved. The following species are considered to be regionally vulnerable: Trees: Brachychiton populneus Shrubs: Melaleuca erubescens, Olearia viscidula, Pomaderris ferruginea Herbs: Atriplex australasica, Calotis lappulacea, Danthonia linkii, Einadia trigonos, Epilobium billardierianum, Eremophila debilis, Ora/is exilis, Plantago gaudichaudii, Vittadinia sp. Mistletoes: Amyema gaudichaudii. Muellerina eucalyptoides

168 Local Government Area Campbell Hill Pioneer Park is one of numerous local open areas, comprising parks, Merck, Sharp and Dohme bushland, a golf course and pipeline corridor, that contain native vegetation and have considerable value as a flora and fauna corridor in an otherwise built environment.

Threats & Limitations Weeds are probably the greatest threat to the bushland sections, in particular Myrsiphyllum asparagoides, Asparagus aethiopicus, Asparagus plumosus, Lonicera japonica, Araujia hortorum, Rubusfruticosus and Pennesetum clandestinum.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of the vulnerable plant community. • Protection of the ROTAP species. • Protection of vulnerable plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Appropriate zoning to achieve protection of environmental values.

Management options: • Rehabilitation of all bushland areas, in all suitable parts of the Council reserve and Sydney Water pipeline corridor, to link the eastern and western parts of Campbell Hill Pioneer Park and the Duck River corridor bushland fragments. Areas that have a significant proportion of native cover or shrub species should be given high priority for re-establishment of bushland.

• A bushland management plan, which includes weed control, could be prepared and implemented for this park and adjacent corridors.

5.4.5 Other Surveyed Remnants

Sydney Water Pipeline Corridor

Site The water supply pipeline corridor from Guildford to Potts Hill passes through a corridor at the boundary of Auburn and Bankstown LGAs. This section extends from Woodville Road to Regents Park Station.

Size c. 15 ha

Vegetation Most of the trees and shrubs have been cleared in the corridor with only scattered groups and individuals of Angophorafloribunda. Eucalyptus moluccana. Melaleuca decora and Acacia parramattensis remaining. Other species are uncommon but include Eucalyptusfibrosa, E.

169 tereticornis, E. resinifera, E. globoidea and E. amplifolia. Smaller shrubs and ground cover species include Lissanthe strigosa, Astroloma humifusum, Dianella revoluta and Aristida spp.

Species Richness A total of 72 native species are recorded from the corridor.

Conservation Status Although the vegetation has been extensively modified, many significant native species have survived, including a small population of the ROTAP species Acacia pubescens, about 30 metres west of Barbers Road. A further 16 species are considered vulnerable in western Sydney.

The water supply corridor provides a valuable east-west link between the Holroyd and Parramatta LGAs, and more locally between Campbell Hill Pioneer Park and the Duck River Reserve.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conservation outcome: • Protection of ROTAP species. • Protection of regionally vulnerable plant species.

Possible mechanisms for conservation: • Increased awareness of the conservation values of the pipeline corridor within the local area.

Management options: • Consideration should be given to re-establishing native vegetation throughout all suitable parts of the corridor, by eliminating mowing and the planting of local native species. • Target weed control should implemented as a priority, particularly in non-mow areas.

5.4.6 Winston Hills/Toongabbie District

While not surveyed as a part of the western Sydney UBBS due to time constraints, several smaller remnants away from the creeks in the Toongabbie and Winston Hills districts, are of particular conservation significance. Species lists compiled by the Winston Hills and Toongabbie Bush Care Group show that a diversity of significant species occur at these sites including c. 50 vulnerable species and 4 regionally significant species. A significant proportion of these are not recorded elsewhere within the Parramatta LGA. The sites are briefly described below:

Buckleys Road, Winston Hills Several small hillside remnants along Buckleys road support a high diversity of native plant species. The area has been almost completly cleared of canopy trees with only scattered regrowth of Eucalyptus tereticornis. Acacia implexa, A. decurrens and several other wattle species now present. There is considerable richness, however, of grass and herb species including cAO vulnerable species and two regionally significant species (Chenopodium pumilio, Paspalidium albovillosumi in western Sydney.

170 Kindelan Road Reserve, Winston Hills A small council reserve surrounded by housing and roads with remnant Grey Box-Ironbark Woodland. Common tree species include Eucalyptus crebra, E. tereticornis, E. moluccana, E. eugenioides and Angophora floribunda. The understorey has been cleared and until a few years ago the reserve was regularly mown. In 1994 the southern part of the site became the focus for a bush regeneration landcare project and mowing was stopped in certain areas. Prior to 1994 relatively few native shrub and herb species were recorded from the site. Less than two years after mowing was stopped c. 74 native plant species have now been recorded from the site as a result of natural regeneration. Several significant species have been recorded including c. 30 species considered vulnerable and 3 species of regional significance in western Sydney (Paspalidium albovillosum, Alternanthera nana, Chenopodium pumilio).

Roadside reserve between Wentworth Avenue and the railway line between Toongabbie and Wentworthville stations (now partly developed). A long, narrow reserve adjacent to the railway was recently surveyed and amazingly found to support c. 40 native grasses and herb species. Although the reserve has been largely cleared and presumably frequently mown, these species have persisted at the site. Of the species recorded, one taxa is of regional significance and c. 6 species are considered vulnerable and inadequately conserved in western Sydney. The local biodiversity conservation value of such small and highly modified sites is often poorly understood by communities and management authorities.

Threats and Limitations While the above sites do have high conservation value, they pose significant management problems. Most sites are quite small and have extensive boundaries which increase detrimental edge effects. There also appears to be little scope to link these reserves with habitat corridors as they are surrounded by existing residential areas. Nevertheless, these areas are of considerable importance in the conservation of local biodiversity and should be managed in such a way that threats are minimised and species diversity is maintained. Many remnant sites within the LGA are no longer mown and this practice is to be commended. Outstanding natural regeneration of native species has occurred at these sites (see Kindelan Road Reserve).

5.5 Review of Conservation Needs in Parramatta LGA

Approximately 280 hectares of remnant bushland survives within the Parramatta LGA, representing a diverse range of plant communities and plant species. These remnants are of considerable conservation significance at national, regional and local levels. No NPWS conservation reserves occur in the area.

A summary of the core biodiversity areas identified in the report are provided below:

The United Centenary Centre contains a diverse flora with 225 species recorded including c. 67 species considered significant in western Sydney. It also contains a range of endangered or vulnerable plant communities including Shale Woodland, Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest and River-flat Forest. The presence of both shale and sandstone communities and an ecotone between these is of particular significance.The Centenary site is the only surviving, intact example of Transition Forest in the local area.

171 Lake Parramatta Reserve is floristically important as it contains a diverse flora with a high proportion of species significant in western Sydney. It also contains good populations of the ROTAP species, Epacris purpurascens, in a situation that is relatively free from threats. Much of this reserve is weed-free and provides a high quality example of Sydney sandstone gully forest. The strong shale influence on the local floristics is of significance and representative of the sandstone flora of eastern parts of western Sydney which is currently unconserved in any formal reserve.

Rapanea Community Forest, Galaringi Park and Coxs Park are the largest surviving, intact remnant of Blue Gum High Forest and Turpentine-Ironbark Forest within the Parramatta LGA. They have the highest species diversity, largest number of significant species and most natural vegetation structure of the Subiaco/Ponds Creeks and Dundas Valley sites. Other areas were generally more affected by weed competition and therefore had fewer native species present. The poor condition of the Rapanea community forest prior to bushland regeneration taking place shows the potential of existing degraded areas to be improved. Continued bushland regeneration could, with time, bring back many of the species and be indicative of the structure of the original Blue Gum High Forest.

Duck River Reserve is the largest remaining area of Eastern Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest in western Sydney is currently unconserved. Important remnants of River-flat Forest also occur along Duck Creek. The reserve has significantly high levels of species richness and contains many important species of national, regional and local significance. It also has important flora and fauna corridor values.

These remnants of high conservation significance are the core biodiversity areas in western Sydney. Most of the remnants are currently in council reserves except for the United Centenary Centre. A higher level of longer-term protection is needed, however, than currently afforded under open-space zoning and SEPP 19 legislation. Potential conservation options to achieve this protection include reservation by appropriate management authorities, the establishment of Voluntary Conservation Agreements, the designation of council reserves and appropriate environmental zoning.

Complementary biodiversity areas are crucial to support and enhance the core areas identified above, by increasing representation of rare vegetation communities and linking sites with flora and fauna corridors. Community involvement is of primary importance in the management of these areas. The Parramatta LGA already has many joint council-community landcare and bushland projects which is to be commnended.

The Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Arm Creek corridor is of particular significance for these values and also for several small but significant remnants within the corridor.

The Sydney Water Property is of particular significance for its transitional woodland and River-flat Forest communities.

Moxham Park has a diverse flora which includes one ROTAP species, Epacris purpurascens, and c. 16 species that are vulnerable in western Sydney. This area is affected by weeds on bushland edges and along Quarry Branch Creek but is otherwise in good condition. It therefore represents a quality example of Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest with shale influence. Shale woodland is present in the adjoining Curtin Reserve but the ecotone between the different communities has been cleared for parkland.

172 Bundilla Scout Camp also has a diverse flora that contains at least 16 species vulnerable in western Sydney and a locally rare patch of Scribbly Gum woodland. Its location at the confluence of Toongabbie and Quarry Branch Creeks give this area added value in terms of providing a vital link between the bushland areas on each creek. The site could potentially be a valuable field study site for local schools.

Further information important corridor sites is provided below. Generally through the LGA, and within a regional framework, a 40 m wide riparian protection zone should be established along all creek lines.

Additional remnants not covered in this report, but of important conservation significance, include the Edna Hunt Sanctuary at Epping (between Hillside Crescent, Yarran Avenue and Cocos Avenue) and Vineyard Creek reserve extending from Wesley Street, Telopea through to Kissing Point road. The Edna Hunt Sanctuary comprises an area of c. 4 ha of Blue Gum High Forest which is slowly being regenerated and a management plan is currently being prepared. The Vineyard Creek Reserve contains excellent remnants of Sandstone Gully Forest.

5.6 Corridors

The effectiveness of a reserve system within the LGA and the long-term viability of isolated bushland remnants will largely depend on the development of flora and fauna corridors. Within the Parramatta LGA the greatest potential for corridor development is along the river and creek systems. The following major corridors are recognised:

Subiaco Creek and Dundas Valley Much of the bushland in this area occurs in a riparian strip along Subiaco Creek and The Ponds Creek. It comprises areas such as the Rapanea community forest that are in relatively good condition interspersed with degraded areas and areas completely cleared. Practically all of the land along Subiaco Creek and the Ponds Creek are Council reserves thus providing the potential for ongoing bushland regeneration to improve the continuity of bushland. This will be important as the current distribution of bushland in small isolated pockets will work against genetic diversity and long term viability.

Duck Creek Corridor An open-space corridor along Duck Creek in the south of the LGA is well established and currently actively managed by both Parramatta and Auburn Councils. The planting of local native species throughout the corridor will greatly increase the viability, conservation, catchment and aesthetic values of the area. There is good potential to link up several smaller sites along the Sydney Water pipeline, including the Campbell Hill Reserve, to the main corridor.

Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Arm Creek Corridor See LGA project, described below.

Each of the above corridors is representative of different geographical locations and plant communities providing good coverage within the LGA. Other potential corridors including along railway lines, the Sydney Water pipeline and roadside reserves (see Wentworth Avenue roadside corridor) need further investigation.

Parramatta River - Estuarine communities (not covered in this survey).

173 5.7 Local Government Area Project

A project designed to promote biodiversity conservation and foster community co-operation and involvement within the Parramatta LGA is briefly outlined.

Toongabbie Creek and Quarry Branch Creek The corridor of remnant vegetation along Toongabbie and Quarry Branch Creek has been shown to have outstanding representation of rare and endangered plant communities and associated high species richness within the Parramatta LGA. Despite a long history of degradation there is still considerable potential for regeneration and consolidation of these remnants. Except for a break where Moxhams Road crosses Quarry Branch Creek, all of the remnant bushland surveyed in this creek system can be feasibly linked by habitat corridors that follow the creek lines. An important practical advantage is that most of this land is already within council reserves and valuable bush regeneration work has already began at several sites. Remnants which would form an important part of the corridor include: Reynolds Park, Palestine Park, Third Settlement Reserve, Centenary Centre (private land), Bundilla Camp, Curtin Reserve and Moxham Park. Isolated fragments of bushland along Toongabbie Creek, between the junction Quarry Branch Creek and (opposite Balfour Street, Northmead), provide excellent corridor potential (Frank Gasparre pers. comm.) Ultimately the aim should be should be to have a continuous corridor of native vegetation, incorporating all of these remnants.

One key area is the United Centenary Centre which, apart from being of outstanding conservation significance, is strategically placed to occupy approximately 1 km of creek frontage. Some areas opposite the United Centenary Centre land comprise very steep and narrow banks which have limited corridor potential. This increases the importance of maintaining and improving the corridor value of bushland areas at the United Centenary Centre, including the middle and higher slopes.

The success of such a proj ect will depend on protection of all remaining areas of bushland, including the creek-line, adequate resourcing and effective use of available expertise and input from agencies, organisations and the local community. The project will need to be linked to local and regional strategies, and endorsed by such agencies as the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust.

Priorities 1. The entire corridor, including all remnants, should be appropriately zoned. This is a priority action fundamental to the success and long-term viability of the corridor.

2. A catchment committee and/or steering committee could be set up to provide a catchment context and overview/guidance of the project.

3. Although initial focus will be at the local level, forward planning should include a regional perspective with consideration of future connections to a regional flora and fauna corridor system in western Sydney.

4. A management plan should be prepared for the corridor as a whole and for individual remnants. Priority areas for bush regeneration and weed control should be clearly identified.

174 5. There should be a campaign to increase public awareness of bushland values in the local district. Community involvement should be encouraged at all stages and opportunities provided to train interested persons and groups in bush regeneration and management techniques.

Acknowledgements Parramatta City Council, particularly Frank Gasparre. Elizabeth Boesel, Secretary of Friends of Galaringi - the Carlingford Botanic Parkland Inc.

175 5.8 References Antcliff, P. (1996). Wildsearch Flora & Fauna Surveys. 'UBBS Flora survey for Parrarnatta LGA'.

Benson, D.H. 1992, 'The natural vegetation of the Penrith 1:100000 map sheet', Cunninghami.a2(4). pp. 541-598.

Benson, D.H. & Howell, J. 1994, 'The natural vegetation of the Sydney 1:100 000 map sheet', Cunninghamia. 3(4), pp. 677-787.

Boesel, E. (to 1993). 'Plant List - Galaringi'. Unpubl ished list.

Coveny, R.G. 1965, 'Flora list for Lake Parramatta reserve compiled over the period 1960-1965', unpubl ished.

Coveny, R.G. 1970, 'Flora species list for Toongabbie Creek Reserve compiled over the period 1965-1970', unpublished.

James, T.A. 1989, 'Native plant species list for Lake Parramatta', unpublished.

James, T.A., Coveny, R.G., Kravchenko, P. & Cook, S. 1994, 'Native plant species recorded from Toongabbie Creek and United Centenary Centre, Toongabbie, August and December 1993, updated 1994', unpublished ..

James, T.A. 1996, 'Remnant bushland along Toongabbie Creek, Western Sydney: A summary of vegetation studies and associated conservation issues'., unpublished report.

Kravchenko, P. & Cook, S., 'Native plant species recorded from corridor between railway line and Wentworth Aven ue, between Wentworthv ilie and Toongabie stations, 1993- 1995', unpublished.

National Trust of (NSW) 1990, 'Lake Parramatta Reserve Bushland Survey', unpublished report, August..

National Trust of Australia (NSW) 1992, 'Subiaco/Ponds Reserve, Dundas, Program for Bushland Restoration', unpubl ished report, September.

Robson, J. (1995). 'Bush Regeneration Report for Coxs Park'. Ryde Tafe (Horticulture).

Urban Bushland Management Ltd. 1993, 'Rapanea Community Forest and Adjoining Areas, Bushland Survey and Rehabilitation Strategy', unpublished report, April.

Urban Bushland Management Consultants (1997). Conservation Assessment of 356 , Toongabbie. Report prepared for Parramatta City Council.

Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group, 1995, 'Biological diversity of Kinderlan Park - lronbark Woodland', unpublished species list.

Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group, Species lists for Convict Steps (rear) 50 Oakes Rd Winston Hills & Rotary Grove, Edison Parade, Winston Hills, June 1995 & January 1996, unpublished.

Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group, Species lists for various sites in the Winston Hills and Toongabbie areas, unpublished.

176 12 13 17 18 21 22 . '" ., .'"

UBBS STUDY AREA: WESTERN SYDNEY Parramatta LGA Pre 1750 Vegetation Communities Scale 1:79300 Grid: 1000m

. River Flat Forest/Wetlands Blue Gum High Forest Turp IronbarklShale Cap Forest Cumberland Plain Woodlands Shale/Sandstone Transition Compl Hawkesbury sstone Ridgetop Hawkesbury sstone Gully Forest

LGA Boundaries - Highways/Major Roads 1:1OOk - Minor drainage (1:25,000)

!:;,...., •••...••,-~·"' .r-. .."' •• -.I...,,."'=,..."-.--'. - Major drainage (1:25K) - Western Sydney UBBS Study Area 10

UBBS STUDY AREA: WESTERN SYDNEY Parramatta LGA Vegetation Communities and NPWS Reserves +·,,,....,t.. ····,f..····....·..·..II,,··..,,..j Scale 1:80466 Grid: 1000m

Riverilat ForestlWetlands Blue Gum High Forest 51[', '. Castlereagh Woodlands Hawkesbury sstone Gully Forest NPWS Reserves

LGA Boundaries 49i·,·;·;,··..;;······.·-I"···J?·d~..,,,·..·;·."..t·" -...,-..,,,..v., ~".,rr+ +.".- -- .." +- _····..·,····I-·..·\;;;:2!""'..I'-,,1- Highways/Maj0 r Roads 1:1OOk ,- Minor drainage (1:25,000) - Major drainage (1:25K)

48!...,....·..".·•.-,i,"'"'.~,~.\.J.k=~p~*.-:.·+...-.....-..-..;.··-·.·;·J,,··,-·....···'i·..."·..·!..•r,·... ·.·,·,..,!···-..~···..--·1'..··-..1- Western Sydney UBBS Study Area - Sealed Minor Rds 21

"""·""~""T"i'·'··'·"~-'·' 1

Hawkesbury (ha) Lucas Heights (Ih) Gymea (gy) Water Glenorie (gn) . Blacktown (bt) Disturbed (xx) Picton (pn) Luddenham (lu) Birrong (bg) Deep Creek (dc) West Pennant Hills (wp) South Creek (sc)

~;""""""-"'~~-""'""""lh"·, ~,·,,.~.~_._L.,·..-.-';;.·- ·_~._i;'-..--..-..·..·".\,··- ·-··-.{,__ ..-=."c ;""·- ·1-- LGA Soundaries Highways/Major Roads 1:100k - Minor drainage (1:25,000) - Major drainage (1:25K) Western Sydney UBSS Study Area Sealed Minor Rds Parramatta Bundilla Scout Camp Centenary Centre, Curtin Reserve End of Young St, Dundas

Opposite Centenary Centre = Flora survey sites

- LGA Boundaries - Highways/Major Roads 1:1OOk - Minor drainage (1:25,000) - Major drainage (1:25K) - Western Sydney USBS Study Area - Sealed Minor Rds Appendix 5.1 Significant Plant Species in Parramatta LGA

Code 3VCa, 2RCi, 2RC-, 2KC-, 2E Rare or Threatened Australian Plant (ROTAP) (Briggs & Leigh 1996). REG Regionally significant in western Sydney V Vulnerable in Western Sydney Habitat Transition Forest (1) Eastern Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest Transition Forest (2) Western Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest Ref Species list reference (see end of table).

SPECIES CODE OCCURRENCE HABITAT REF Acacia pubescens 3VCa Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 REG VI Callistemon linearifolius 2RCi Duck River Transition Forest (1) 36 REG VI (Old record) Deyeuxia appressa 2E Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 (voucher specimen needed REG VI (No recent records) to confirm) Epacris purpurascens 2KC- Moxham Park (4 small S'stone Open Forest 5,29, var. purpurascens REG VI populations), Lake Parramatta 10,30 Reserve Hibbertia nitida 2RC- Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 REG VI Lomandra brevis 2RC- Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 30,38 REG VI (Dundas), Coxs Park ?Zieria involucrata 2VCa Coxs Park 38 REG VI Altemanthera nana REG VI Kindelan Rd Reserve Shale Woodland 26 Asterolasia correifolia REG VI Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Austromyrtus tenuifolia REG VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Calystegia sepium REG VI Third Settlement Reserve River Flat Forest 21 Cassinia longifolia REG VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Chenopodium pumilio REG VI Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland, River 16,22, Reserve, Buckleys Rd, Winston Flat Forest, Transition 26,21, Hills, Third Settlement Forest (2), Riparian 20,28, Reserve, Convict Steps/ 19,18, Palestine Park, Baxter 17,27 Healthcare, Winston Heights Public School Cryptocarya microneura REG VI Toongabbic/Quarry Branch Ck Closed Forest 29 Dysphania littoralis REG VI Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Eucalyptus acmenoides REG VI Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Blue Gum High Forest, 14,32, Subiaco/Ponds Ck, Coxs Park River Flat/Riparian, 33,38 Turpentine / Ironbark Forest Erodium ?crinitum REG VI Toongabbiey'Quarry Branch Ck 29 Eucalyptus punctata REG VI Third Settlement Reserve, River Flat Forest, 1,6,8, ssp. wianamattica (ms) Curtin Reserve, Centenary Transition Forest (2) 16 Centre Goodenia stelligera REG VI Coxs Park 38 Grevillea juniperina REG VI Convict Steps/Palestine Park Transition Forest (2) 20 Hakea gibbosa REG VI Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 30 Juncus sarophorus REG VI Duck River Reserve Wet sites 36 Kennedia prostrata REG VI Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 14 Lasiopetalum rufum REG VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 9,10,30 Lepidium REG VI Centenary Centre Open Woodland 16,22 pseudohyssopifolium Melodinus australis REG VI Toongabbie/Quarry Branch Ck River Flat Forest 28 Muellerina ?celastroides REG VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Myoporum boninense ssp. REG VI Duck River Reserve Riparian forest 36 australe Olearia ?ramulosa REG VI Toongabbie /Quarry Branch S'stone Open Forest 29,30 Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve Panicum ?decompositum REG VI Wentworth Ave Roadside 25 Paspalidium albovillosum REG VI Kindelan Rd Reserve, Buckleys Shale Woodland 17,23 Rd, Winston Hills Pimelea curviflora REG VI Moxham Park S'stone Open Forest 5 var. curviflora Schoenus maschalinus REG VI Toongabbie/ Quarry Branch Ck Wetter sites 29 Stackhousia muricata REG VI Centenary Centre Shale Woodland 16,22

Acacia maidenii V2 Centenary Centre, Rapanea Blue Gum High Forest 16,30 Forest (Dundas) Acacia stricta V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Acianthus fornicatus V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Agrostis aemula VI Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Alisma plantago-aquatica V3 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Riparian 29,30 Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve Alphitonia excelsa V3 Bundilla Scout Camp, Subiaco River Flat Forest, Blue 3,11, Creek, Rydalmere, Third Gum High Forest, River 21,33 Settlement Reserve, Rapanea Flat/Riparian Forest (Dundas), Subiaco/Ponds Ck Amyema gaudichaudii V3 Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Transition Forest (2), 20,22, Centenary Centre, Wentworth Roadside, Shale 23,26, Ave, Buckleys Rd, Winston Woodland, Transition 27,36 Hills, Kindelan Rd Reserve, Forest (1) Duck River Reserve V3 Third Settlement Reserve River Flat Forest 1 Arthropodium V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland 16,26 milleflorum Reserve Arthropodium minus V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Asplenium australasicum VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 10 Austrostipa rudis V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Austrostipa scabra VI Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Blue Gum High Forest, 32,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Austrostipa verticillata V2 Centenary Centre Transition Forest (2) 16,22 Baeckea limifolia V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 31 Bolboschoenus caldwellii V3 Centenary Centre, Baxter Riparian 16,19 Healthcare Bossiaea buxifolia V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Bothriochloa decipiens V3 Centenary Centre Transition Forest (2) 16 Bothriochloa macra V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Transition Forest (2), 16, 17, Rd, Reserve, Winston Hills Shale Woodland, River 18,19, Public School, Baxter Health Flat Forest, Roadside 20,21, Care Reserve, Convict Steps, 25,23 Third Settlement Reserve, Wentworth Avenue, Buckleys Reserve Brachychiton populneus V3 Centenary Centre, Rapanea Open-Woodland, Blue 16,22, Forest (Dundas), Duck River Gum High Forest, 32,36, Reserve, Campbell Hill, swp Transition Forest (1) 36,24 Caleana major V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Callistemon citrinus V3 Third Settlement Reserve, River Flat Forest, 1,20, Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Transition Forest (2), 21,30 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest Callistemon rigidus V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 30,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Calotis cuneifolia V3 Centenary Centre, Wentworth Shale Woodland, 16,25 Avenue Roadside Calotis lappulacea V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Shale Woodland, 16,36, Reserve, Campbell Hill Transition Forest (1) 35 Calystegia marginata V3 Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Shale Woodland 20,23, Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills, 28,33 Mobbs Hill Carex breviculmis V3 Centenary Centre, Buckleys Riparian, Shale 16,23 Rd, Winston Hills Woodland Carex longibrachiata V3 Centenary Centre, Third Riparian, River Flat 16,21, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Forest, Shale Woodland 22,23, Rd,Winston Hills, 29 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Ck Cassinia arcuata V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Chamaesyce dallachyana V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland, River 16,17, Reserve, Winston Heights Flat Forest, Transition 18,19, Public School, Buckleys Rd, Forest (2), Riparian 20,21, Winston Hills, Third 28 Settlement Reserve, Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Baxter Healthcare Chloris trunctata V3 Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills, ShaleWoodland, 23,17, Kindelan Rd Reserve, Duck Transition Forest (1) 36 River Reserve Chloris ventricosa V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Duck Shale Woodland, 17,36 River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Chorizema parviflorum V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 30,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Christella dentata V2 Quarry Branch Creek, Riparian 4,5 Moxham Park Chrysocephalum V3 Duck River Reserve, Transition Forest (1), 36,25, apiculatum Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Roadside, S'stone Open 29,30 Ck, Wentworth Ave, Lake Forest Parramatta Reserve Cissus antarctica V3 Convict Steps/Palestine Park Transition Forest (2) 20 Cissus hypoglauca V3 Centenary Centre, Lake Backhousia scrub, S'stone 16,22, Parramatta Reserve Open Forest 30 Convolvulus erubescens V3 Winston Heights Public School, Shale Woodland, 18,25, Wentworth Ave, Buckleys Rd, Roadside, Transition 23,27, Winston Hills, Convict Forest (2), Blue Gum 31,38 Steps/Palestine Park, Rapanea High Forest, Forest (Dundas), Coxs Park Turpentine /Ironbark Forest Cotula australis V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Blue Gum High Forest, 16,17, Reserve, Winston Heights S'stone Open Forest, 18,19, Public School, Baxter Shale Woodland, 20,28, Healthcare, Convict Riparian, Transition 21,26, Steps/Palestine Park, Rapanea Forest (2), River Flat 23,30, Forest (Dundas), Lake Forest, Roadside, 31 Parramatta Reserve, Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills, Wentworth Ave, Third Settlement Reserve Cryptostylis subulata V Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Cyathea cooperi V3 Quarry Branch Creek, Rapanea Riparian, Blue Gum High 4, 14 Forest (Dundas) Forest Cyperus difformis V3 Centenary Centre, Baxter Riparian, Transition 16,22, Healthcare, Convict Forest (2), Blue Gum 19,20, Steps/Palestine Park, Rapanea High Forest 31 Forest (Dundas) Cyperus imbecillus V1 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Riparian, Shale 16, 17 Reserve Woodland Cyperus laevis V3 Toongabbiez Quarry Branch Riparian, Transition 16,22, Ck, Third Settlement Reserve, Forest (2), River Flat 19,20, Baxter HeaIthcare, Convict Forest, Blue Gum High 21,29, Steps/Palestine Park, Forest 39 Centenary Centre, Galaringi Park Cyperus mirus V1 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Cyperus polystachyos. V3 Centenary Centre, Riparian, Transition 16,22, Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Forest (1) 29,36 Ck, Duck River Reserve Danthonia linkii V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Winston Shale Woodland, River 17,18, Heights Public School, Third Flat Forest, Transition 21,23, Settlement Reserve, Campbell Forest (1) 35 Hill, Buckleys Rd,Winston Hills Danthonia longifolia V3 Third Settlement Reserve, River Flat Forest, 1,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Danthonia pilosa var. V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Winston Shale Woodland, River 17,18, pilosa Heights Public School, Third Flat Forest 21,22, Settlement Reserve, Centenary 23 Centre, Buckleys Rd,Winston Hills Danthonia racemosa V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Transition Forest (2), 16,36, Reserve, Galaringi Park Transition Forest (1), 39 Blue Gum High Forest Danthonia setacea V2 Curtin Reserve, Duck River Shale Woodland, 6,36 Reserve Transition Forest (1) Dendrophthoe vitellina V3 Third Settlement Reserve, River Flat Forest, 1,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Deyeuxia quadriseta V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Dichelachne crinita V3 Centenary Centre, Rapanea Blue Gum High Forest 22,31 Forest (Dundas) Dichopogon strictus V1 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Digitaria diffusa V2 Centenary Centre 16 Digitaria didactyla V1 Kindelan Rd Reserve Shale Woodland 17 Digitaria ramularis V3 Centenary Centre, Rapanea Blue Gum High Forest 16,31, Forest (Dundas), Coxs Park 38 Diuris maculata V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Diuris sulphurea V2 Duck River Reserve, Lake Transition Forest (1), 36,30, Parramatta Reserve, Rapanea S'stone Open Forest, Blue 31 Forest (Dundas) Gum High Forest Doodia aspera V3 Centenary Centre, Third Backhousia scrub, River 16,21, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Flat Forest, Blue Gum 23,39 Rd, Galaringi Park High Forest Dysphania glomulifera V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Echinochloa telmatophila V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Einadia nutans V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Open Woodland, Shale 16,22, Reserve, Convict Woodland, Transition 17,27, Steps/Palestine Park, Third Forest (2), River Flat 20,21, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Forest 23 Rd, Winston Hills Einadia polygonoides V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Buckleys Shale Woodland, 17,23, Rd, Winston Hills, Duck River Transition Forest (1) 36,24 Reserve, swp Einadia trigonos V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Transition Forest (2), 16,22, Reserve, Winston Heights Shale Woodland, River 17,27, Public School, Convict Flat Forest, Transition 18,20, Steps/Palestine Park, Third Forest (I), Turpentine 21,23, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys /Ironbark Forest 36,38 Rd,Winston Hills, Duck River Reserve, Coxs Park Elymus scaber V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve Buckleys Shale Woodland 17,23 Rd,Winston Hills Epilobium billardierianum V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Drainage Line, Shale 16,22, ssp. cinereum Reserve, Convict Woodland, Riparian, 17,27, Steps/Palestine Park, Duck Transition Forest (1) 36,24 River Reserve, swp Eragrostis parvifolia V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Eragrostis phillipica V3 Duck River Reserve Transition forest (9d) 36 Eriochloa V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Convict Shale Woodland, 17,20, pseudoacrotricha Steps/Palestine Park, Third Transition Forest (2), 21,23 Settlement Reserve, Buckleys River Flat Forest Rd, Winston Hills Eriostemon australasicus V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 9,10,30 Eucalyptus amplifolia V3 Centenary Centre, Baxter River-flat Forest, 16,22, Healthcare, Convict Transition Forest (1) 19,20, Steps/Palestine Park, Third 28,21, Settlement Reserve, 36 Wentworth Ave, Duck River Reserve Eucalyptus globoidea V3 Centenary Centre, Ponds Transition Forest (2) 16,13, Creek, swp 24 Eucalyptus haemastoma V2 Ponds Creek Sandstone ridge 13 Eucalyptus paniculata V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Blue Gum High Forest 14,31, Centenary Centre, Coxs Park Transition Forest 16,22, (2),Turpentine/Ironbark 38 Forest Eucalyptus saligna V3 Third Settlement Reserve, River-flat Forest, Blue 1,2,3, Toongabbie Creek, Bundilla Gum High Forest, 4,7, II, Scout Camp, Quarry Branch Sydney Sandstone 12,13, Creek, Lake Parramatta Gulley Forest 14, IS, Reserve, Buckleys Rd, 16,20, Winston Hills, Convict 2223, Steps/Palestine Park, Mobbs 24,28, Hill, Rapanea Forest (Dundas), 30,32, The Ponds Creek, Dundas, 33,34, Subiaco Creek, Rydalmere, 38 Centenary Centre, Subiaco/Ponds Ck, Coxs Park, swp Euchiton involucratus V3 Baxter Health Care, Third Shale Woodland, River 1,19, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Flat Forest 23,25 Rd, Wentworth Avenue Euchiton sphaericus V3 Kindelan Road Reserve, Third Shale Woodland, River 1,17,24 Settlement Reserve, swp Flat Forest Gahnia melanocarpa VI Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 30,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Geranium solanderi V3 swp River-flat Forest 24 Gleichenia microphylla V2 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Ck Sheltered Lower Slopes 29 Glossogyne tannensis V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Glycine microphylla V3 Third Settlement Reserve, River Flat Forest, Open 1,21,2, Toongabbie Creek, Bundilla Forest (transition), Shale 3,6,16, Scout Camp, Curtin Reserve, Woodland, Riparian, 22,17, Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Roadside, Transition 27,18, Reserve, Winston Heights Forest (2), Blue Gum 19,20, Public School, Baxter High Forest, River 28,26, Healthcare, Convict Flat/ Riparian 23,32, Steps/Palestine Park, 33 Wentworth Ave, Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills, Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Subiaco/Ponds Ck Haloragis heterophylla V2 Wentworth Ave Roadside 25,33 Hibbertia dentata V3 Toongabbie/ Quarry Branch S'stone Open Forest, Blue 29,30, Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve, Gum High Forest 33,34 Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Mobbs Hill Hibbertia linearis V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 9,30, Hibbertia pedunculata V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 30,37 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Hibbertia scandens V2 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Blue Gum High Forest, 31,38 Ck, Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Sydney Sandstone Gully Coxs Park Forest Histiopteris incisa V3 Centenary Centre, Backhousia scrub, Blue 16,22, Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Gum High Forest 31 Ck, Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Hypericum ?japonicum V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Isotoma fluviatilis V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Drainage Line, Transition 16,22, Reserve Forest (1) 36 [uncus homalocaulis V2 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Shale Woodland, 26,29, Toongabbic/Quarry Branch Riparian, S'stone Open 30,36 Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve, Forest, Wet sites Duck River Reserve Juncus subsecundus V3 Toongabbie/Quarry Branch Ck Riparian 28 Lasiopetalum parviflorum V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Lepidosperma gunnii V3 Duck River Reserve, Lake Transition Forest 36 Parramatta Reserve Lepidosperma neesii VI Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Lepidosperma urophorum V Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Leucopogon juniperinus V3 Bundilla Scout Camp, Buckleys Open Forest (transition), 3,23, Rd, Winston Hills, Third Shale Woodland, River 21,15, Settlement Reserve, Mobbs Flat Forest, Tall 34,14, Hill, Rapanea Forest (Dundas), ShrubIand, Blue Gum 3,9,10, Lake Parramatta Reserve, High Forest, S'stone 30,8,16, Centenary Centre, Moxham Open Forest, Transition 22,5,4, Park, Quarry Branch Creek, Forest (2), S'stone Open 33,36 Subiaco/Ponds Ck, Duck River Forest, Closed Scrub, Reserve River Flat/Riparian, Transition Forest (1) Unum marginale V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Lobelia gracilis V2 Moxham Park, Lake S'stone Open Forest 5,9,30, Parramatta Reserve Lomatia myricoides V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Sandstone Gully 14 Lythrum hyssopifolia V3 Centenary Centre, Baxter Drainage Line, Riparian, 16,22, Healthcare, Buckleys Rd, Shale Woodland 19,23, Winston Hills, Convict 20 Steps/Palestine Park Marsdenia suaveolens V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Maytenus silvestris V3 Convict Steps, Third River Flat Forest, 20,1, Settlement Reserve, Centenary Transition Forest (2), 16,13, Centre, Ponds Creek, Rapanea Blue Gum Forest, 14,35, Forest (Dundas), Campbell Transition Forest (1) 24 Hill, swp V3 Bundilla Scout Camp Transition Forest (2) 3 Melaleuca erubescens V3 Campbell Hill Transition Forest (1) 35 Melia azedarach V3 Bundilla Scout Camp, River-flat Forest 3,16 Centenary Centre Mentha diemenica V3 Curtin Reserve, Campbell Hill Shale Woodland, 6,35 Transition Forest (1) Mentha satureioides V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Transition Forest (1) 16,22, Reserve 36 Muellerina eucalyptoides V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Winston Shale Woodland, 17,27, Heights Public School, Baxter Riparian, Transition 18,19, Healthcare, Convict Forest (2), Roadside, 20,22, Steps/Palestine Park, S'stone Open Forest, 26,23, Centenary Centre, Wentworth Transition Forest (1) 29,30, Ave, Buckleys Rd, Winston 36, Hills, Toongabbia/Quarry Branch Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve, Duck River Reserve Notelaea ovata V3 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Protected Lower Slope, 28,34, Ck, Mobbs Hill, Duck River Blue Gum Forest, 36 Reserve Transition Forest (1) Olearia viscidula V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Transition Forest (1) 16,22, Reserve 36 Omalanthus nutans V3 Toongabbie Creek, Bundilla River Flat Forest, 2,3,14, Scout Camp, Rapanea Forest Transition Forest (2), 15,33, (Dundas), Mobbs Hill, Blue Gum High Forest, 16,22, Centenary Centre, Convict Tall Shrubland, Shale 20,28, Steps/Palestine Park, Third Woodland, S'stone Open 22,23, Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Forest, River 30,24 Rd, Winston Hills, Lake Flat/Riparian Parramatta Reserve, Subiaco/Ponds Ck, swp Opercularia ?hispida V2 Centenary Centre 16 Oxalis exilis V3 Duck River Reserve Transition forest (9d) 36 Oxalis perennans V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland, 16,22, Reserve, Winston Riparian, Transition 17,27, HeightsPublic School, Baxter Forest (2), River Flat 18,19, Healthcare, Convict Forest 20,21, Steps/Palestine Park, Third 23 Settlement Reserve, Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills Oxalis radicosa V3 Centenary Centre, Convict Transition Forest (2), 16,22, Steps/Palestine Park, Third River Flat Forest 20,21 Settlement Reserve Paspalidium aversum V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Paspalidium criniforme V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Paspalum vaginatum V2 Duck River Reserve, Campbell Transition Forest (1) 36,35 Hill Passiflora herbertiana V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Blue Gum High Forest 14,31 Mobbs Hill 15,33 Persicaria subsessilis V2 Convict Steps/Palestine Park Riparian 20,27 Phvllanthus similis V3 Centenary Centre Lower slopes of 16,22 Transition Forest (2) Phyllanthus virgatus V3 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Shale Woodland 17,26, Wentworth Ave, Buckleys Rd, Roadside 23,25, Winston Hills, swp 24 Plantago gaudichaudii V3 Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills Shale Woodland 23 Plantago varia V2 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum Forest 14 Platycerium bifurcatum VI Centenary Centre Backhousia scrub 16 Platylobium formosum V3 Toongabbia/ Quarrv Branch S'stone Open Forest, Blue 29,30, Ck, Lake Parramatta Reserve, Gum High Forest, 32,38 Rapanea Forest (Dundas), Coxs Turpentina/ Ironbark PArk Forest Poa affinis V3 Moxham Park, Centenary S'stone Open Forest, 5,16, Centre, Rapanea Forest Transition Forest (2), 22,32 (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest Poa labillardieri V3 Buckleys Rd, Winston Hill, Shale Woodland, 23,27, Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Transition Forest (2) 24 swp Polymeria calycina V3 Centenary Centre, Third River Flat Forest, S'stone 16,22, Settlement Reserve, Lake Open Forest, Transition 21,30, Parramatta Reserve, Duck Forest (1) 36 River Reserve Pomaderris discolor V2 Moxham Park, Lake S'stone Open Forest, 5,30,33 Parramatta Reserve, River Flat/Riparian Subiaco/Ponds Ck Pomaderris elliptica V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 9, 10 Pomaderris ferruginea V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 10,36 Campbell Hill, Duck River Transition Forest (1) Reserve Pomaderris intermedia V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 14 Pomaderris lanigera V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 30,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Portulaca oleracea V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland, 16,22, Reserve, Winston Heights Riparian, Transition 17,26, Public School, Baxter Forest (2) 18,19, Healthcare, Convict 20,27, Steps/Palestine Park, Buckleys 23 Rd, Winston Hills Potamogeton crispus VI Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Riparian, Wet Site 20,27, Wentworth Ave (Roadside) 25 Psilotum nudum VI Lake Parramatta Reserve, S'stone Open Forest, 10,16, Centenary Centre Backhousia scrub 22 Pteris tremula V3 Centenary Centre, Buckleys River-flat Forest, Shale 16,22, Rd, Winston Hills, Rapanea Woodland, Blue Gum 23,32, Forest (Dundas), Galaringi High Forest 39 Park Pterostylis concinna V3 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Ranunculus lappaceus V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Rapanea ?howittiana V3 Third Settlement Reserve River-flat Forest 21 Rhodamnia rubescens V2 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 14 Rulingia dasphylla V3 Duck River Reserve Transition forest (9d) 36 Rumex brownii V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Shale Woodland, 16,22, Reserve, Baxter Healthcare, Riparian, Transition 17,19, Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Forest (2), River Flat 20,27, Third Settlement Reserve, Forest, Transition Forest 21,23, Buckleys Rd. Winston Hills, (1) 36 Duck River Reserve Samolus valerandii VI Third Settlement Reserve River Flat Forest 1,16,22 Centenary Centre Drainage Line Sarcopetalum V3 Moxham Park, Rapanea Forest S'stone Open Forest, Blue 5,14, harveyanum (Dundas), Centenary Centre, Gum High Forest, 31,16, Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Transition Forest (2), 22,20, Toongabbie/Quarry Branch Transition Forest (1), 28,34, Ck, Mobbs Hill, Duck River Sydney Sandstone Gully 36,38 Reserve, Coxs Park Forest Scaevola albida V3 Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills, Shale Woodland, 23,36 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) Schizomeria ovata V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Schoenoplectus validus V3 Baxter Healthcare, Convict Riparian, River Flat 19,20, Steps/Palestine Park, Third Forest 21,22 Settlement Reserve, Centenary Centre Senecio bipinnatisectus V2 Galaringi Park Blue Gum High Forest 39 Senecio hispidulus V3 Centenary Centre, Convict Transition Forest (2), 16,22, Steps/Palestine Park, Third River Flat Forest, 20,28, Settlement Reserve, Roadside, Shale 21,26, Wentworth Ave, Buckleys Rd, Woodland, Transition 23,25, Winston Hills, Sydney Water Forest (1) 36,24 Property, Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Ck, Duck River Reserve Senecio lautus V2 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum Forest 14 Senecio ?minimus V2 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Ck 28 Senecio quadridentatus V3 Buckleys Rd , Convict Shale Woodland/ 23,27, Steps/Palestine Park, Lake Grassland, Transition 20,30, Parramatta Reserve, Duck Forest (2), S'stone Open 36,24 River Reserve, swp Forest, Transition Forest (1) Solanum pungetium V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 32 Solenogyne bellioides V3 Centenary Centre, Duck River Shale Woodland, 16,36, Reserve, Galaringi Park Transition Forest (I), 39 Blue Gum High Forest Sporobolus creber V3 Centenary Centre, Kindelan Rd Transition Forest (2), 16,22, Reserve, Convict Shale Woodland, River 17,20, Steps/Palestine Park, Third Flat Forest, Roadside 21,25, Settlement Reserve, 23 Wentworth Ave, Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills Sporobolus elongatus V2 Kindelan Rd Reserve, Convict Shale Woodland, 17,27, Steps/Palestine Park, Buckleys Transition Forest (2), 20,23, Rd, Winston Hills, Duck River Transition Forest (1) 36 Reserve Tasmannia insipida VI Subiaco Creek, Rydalmere River Flat Forest 12 Tetragonia tetragonioides V2 Convict Steps, swp River-flat forest/ riparian 20,24 Thelymitra ixioides V2 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Blue Gum High Forest 32 Thysanotus tuberosus V3 Centenary Centre, Lake S'stone Open Forest, 16,22, Parramatta Reserve, Duck Transition Forest (1) 30,36 River Reserve Todea barbara V3 Rapanea Forest (Dundas) Sandstone gully 14 Triptilodiscus pygmaeus V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Tristaniopsis collina V2 Bundilla Scout Camp Transition Forest (2) 3 Typha domingensis V2 Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Riparian, Transition 20,22, Transition, Centenary Centre, Forest (1) 36 Duck River Reserve Veronica ?calycina V2 Toongabbie /Quarry Branch Transition Forest (1) 28,36 Ck, Duck River Reserve Viola betonicifolia V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Vittadinia cuneata V3 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Vittadinia muelleri V2 Lake Parramatta Reserve S'stone Open Forest 30 Wahlenbergia stricta V3 Toongabbie/Quarry Branch Transition forest (9d) 28,36 Ck, Duck River Reserve Xanthorrhoea concava V2 Duck River Reserve Transition Forest (1) 36 Zornia dyctiocarpa V3 Centenary Centre, Wentworth Roadside 16,22, Ave 25

Species List References

1. Third Settlement Reserve, Winston Hills (UBBSfieldwork) 2. Area between Third Settlement Reserve and Bundilla Scout Camp along north bank of Toongabbie Creek, Winston Hills (UBBSfieldwork) 3. Bundilla Scout Camp, Winston Hills (UBBSfieldwork) 4. Area between Bundilla Scout Camp and Moxhams Road, both sides of Quarry Branch Creek, Winston Hills & Northmead (UBBSfieldwork) 5. Moxham Park, Winston Hills & Northmead (UBBSfieldwork) 6. Curtin Reserve, Winston Hills (UBBSfieldwork) 7. United Centenary Centre, river flat along Toongabbie Creek, Old Toongabbie (UBBSfieldwork) 8. United Centenary Centre, middle and upper slopes, Old Toongabbie (UBBSfieldwork) 9. Southern and eastern sections of Lake Parramatta Reserve, North Parramatta (UBBSfieldwork) 10. Western section of Lake Parramatta Reserve, North Parramatta (UBBSfieldwork) 11. Subiaco Creek, end of Myrtle Street, Rydalmere (UBBSfieldwork) 12. Subiaco Creek between Elm Place & Hillman Avenue, Rydalmere (UBBSfieldwork) 13. The Ponds Creek, end of Yawung Street, Dundas (UBBSfieldwork) 14. Rapanea community forest, Brand Street, Dundas Valley (UBBSfieldwork) 15. Mobbs Hill Reserve, Carlingford (UBBSfieldwork) 16. Native species recorded from Toongabbie Creek and United Centenary Centre, Toongabbie, August & December 1993, updated 1994,T.A James, KG.Coveny, P.Kravchenko & S.Cook. 17. Kindelan Road Reserve, Winston Hills, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 18. Winston Heights Public School, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 19. Baxter Healthcare site, near Oakes Road Old Toongabbie, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 20. Convict Steps/Palestine Park, Winston Hills, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 21. Third Settlement Reserve, Winston Hills, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 22. United Centenary Centre, Old Toongabbie, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 23. Buckleys Road hillside remnants, Winston Hills, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 24. Sydney Water property, Toongabbie. Urban Bushland Management Consultants (1997).Report to Parramatta City Council. 25. Native plant species recorded from the corridor between railway line and Wentworth Avenue, between Wentworthville and Toongabbie Stations, 1993-1995,P.Kravchenko & S.Cook. 26. Species Survey 1995,Biological diversity of Kindelan Park - ironbark woodland, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 27. Species list - Convict Steps (rear) 50 Oakes Road & Rotary Grove, Edison Parade, Winston Hills, Winston Hills & Toongabbie Bush Care Group. 28. Species list for Toongabbie Creek Reserve, K Coveny, 1965-1970. 29. Lake Parramatta Reserve Bushland Survey, National Trust of NSW, August 1990. 30. Species list for Lake Parramatta Reserve, RCoveny, 1960-1965. 31. Rapanea Community Forest, Bushland Survey and Rehabilitation Strategy, April 1993,Urban Bushland Management Ltd. 32. Subiaco/Ponds Reserve, Dundas, Program for Bushland Restoration, September 1992, National Trust of NSW. 33. Species list for Mobbs Hill Reserve found in Subiaco/Ponds Reserve, Dundas, Program for Bushland Restoration, September 1992,National Trust of NSW. 34. Duck River Reserve (UBBS) 35. Campbell Hill (UBBS) 36. Duck River Reserve, South Granville 37. Native Species List. James, T.A. Lake Parramatta. 1994 38. Bush Regeneration Report for Coxs Park. J. Robson, 1995 39. Plant List for Galaringi Park. E. Boesel, 1993