ANNUAL REPORT 2007/08 © Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority
This report in copyright under the Berne Convention
Copying of this report is permitted providing that the meaning is unchanged and the source is acknowledged.
Published November 2008
Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority
Locked Bag 2048, Goulburn NSW 2580
ISBN 978 0 7347 5275 8
Copies of this annual report can be downloaded from the Hawkesbury-Nepean HNCMA’s website at www.hn.cma.nsw.gov.au.
Cover Photo: Members of the Barragal Landcare Group inspect a planting site on Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institue property, Camden
2 The Honourable Carmel Tebbutt, BEC MP
Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and Environment, Minister for Commerce
Level 30, Governor Macquarie Tower 1 Farrer Place SYDNEY NSW 2000
28 October 2008
Re: 2007/08 Annual Report for the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority
Dear Minister,
We have great pleasure in presenting the Annual Report of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority for the financial year, 1 July 2007 – 30 June 2008, for submission to Parliament.
This report has been prepared in accordance with section 17 of the Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003, and the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act 1984, and the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Regulation 2005. This year’s report has also been prepared in response to advice that has been received from the Premier’s Department and NSW Audit Office.
This report details our annual accounts as audited by the NSW Audit Office as well as the activities and achievements of our organisation and the relevant statutory and financial information for the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority.
Yours sincerely
John Klem Chairperson
Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority
Bernie Bugden General Manager
ANNUAL REPORT 2007/08
3 QUICK FIND INDEX
Acronyms 144 Identification of audited financial statements 83-84
Access/addresses 21 Investment performance 10-16, 78-81, 130
Aims and objectives 20-21 Key performance results 10-16
Audited financial statement 82 Land disposal 133
Biodiversity programs and projects 28 Legal change 132
Board members 22-23 Legislation 21
Budget for the year ahead 17 Letter of submission to the Minister 3
Charter 20-21 Liability Management Performance n/a
Chair’s Foreword 6-7 Management activities 8-16, 79-81, 108-120
Consultants 132 Management and structure 124
Consumer response 141 Monitoring and Evaluation 76-77
Corporate Governance 24-27, 108-116 Performance and numbers of executive officers 126
Credit card certification 131 NSW Government action plan for women 128
Disability plan 129 Occupational Health and Safety 129
Disclosure of controlled entities n/a Payment of Accounts (including time) 134
Disclosure of subsidiaries n/a Privacy Management Plan 141
Economic or other factors 6-9, 78-81 Production costs 141
Electronic service delivery 138 Profile of the region 18
Energy management 137 Promotion/publications 141
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) 126-127 Public availability inside front cover 2
Ethnic Affairs Priority Statement 126 Research and development n/a
Estuary projects 50 Risk management and insurance activities 131
Evaluation 10-13, 78-81, 76-77 River Health programs and projects 42
Executive (principal officers) 124 Soil and Land programs and projects 52
Financial statements 82-107 Strategic Planning 27, 111-112
Freedom of information 139-140 Summary and review of operations 10-16, 79-81
Funds granted to non-government Threatened species projects 34-37 community organisations 133 Waste management 136 General Manager’s Message 8-9 Wetland projects 47 Guarantee of service 138
Human resources 124-129
4 CONTENTS
Chair’s Foreword 6 Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting 76
General Manager’s message 8 Financial Reporting 2007/08 78 Key Performance Results 10 Finance Audit and Corporate Governance Looking Ahead 2008/09 17 subcommittee report 78 Profile of the region 18 Financials for 2007/08 82 Who we are 20 Appendices 108 Our Board 22 Board & Partnerships 108 Corporate Governance 24 i. Board and subcommittees 108 Strategic Planning 27 ii. HNCMA representation on significant committees 119 Biodiversity 28 iii. Service level agreements 121 State Target 1 – Native vegetation extent and condition 30 Human Resources & Personnel 124 Case study: Bushland Conservation Project 32 iv. HNCMA Organisational structure and Case study: Native Vegetation Management 33 employee classification 124 State Target 2 – Sustainable populations 34 v. Personnel Policies and Practices 125 State Target 3 – Threatened species and communities 35 vi. Senior executive service officers 126 Case Study: Broad-headed Snake Recovery Project 38 vii. Ethnic Affairs Priority Statement 126 State Target 4 – Invasive species 39 viii. Equal Employment Opportunity 126 Case study: Removing Privet on the Putty River 41 ix. NSW Government Action Plan for Women 128
River Health 42 x. Occupational Health & Safety 129 State Target 5 – Riverine ecosystems 44 xi. Disability Plan 129 Case study: River Restoration Project 45 Finance & Operations 130 State Targets 6/7 – Groundwater & Marine 46 xii. Investment performance 130 State Target 8 - Wetlands 46 xiii. Risk management and insurance activities 131 Case study: Wetlands Management Project 47 xiv. Credit card use 131 State Target 9 – Estuaries and coastal 48 xv. Legal changes 132 Case study: Estuary, Coast and Marine Program 50 xvi. Consultants engaged 132
Soil & Land 52 xvii. Funds to non-government community organisations 133 State Target 10 – Soil condition 54 xviii. Land disposal 133 Case study: Catchment Protection Scheme 55 xix. Payment of accounts 134 State Target 11 – Land capability 57 HNCMA Sustainability 136 Case study: Improving land capability 59 xx. Waste management and purchasing 136 xxi. Energy management 137 Community & Partnerships 60 HNCMA Service & Response 138 State Target 12 – Natural resource management decisions 62 Case study: HNCMA Landcare/Community Support 63 xxii. Guarantee of service 138 State Target 13 – Community Capacity Building 64 xxiii. Electronic service delivery 138 Case study: Collaboration with the Blue Mountains World xxiv. Freedom of information disclosures 139 Heritage Institute 66 xxv. Consumer response 141 Case study: Upper Lachlan Biodiversity xxvi. Privacy management 141 Planning Framework 67 xxvii. Cultural heritage management 141 Reporting against NRC Standards 68 xxviii. Publications 141 Case study – Developing a system to collect, store Miscellaneous 142 & share knowledge within the HNCMA 69 xxix. Vegetation management activities 142 Case study – scale: Wheeny Creek river restoration 70 xxx. Acronyms 144 Case study – collaboration: HNCMA Investment Prospectus 72 Case study – engaging the community on the River Lett 74
5 CHAIR’S FOREWARD
I am pleased to present the took us to the end of the former Natural will maximise improvements in natural Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Heritage Trust Program funding. I am resource condition across NSW. The Management Authority’s (HNCMA) proud to be able to report we exceeded NRC submitted its report, “Allocating annual report for 2007/08. or met all 27 of our Catchment Action Plan NRM funding between NSW Catchment targets this year. Management Authorities”, to the Premier The HNCMA’s projects have contributed on 4 April 2008. This report articulates key to increased vegetation cover, and Since 2004, the Hawkesbury-Nepean methodology placing significant emphasis improvement in riverine environments, CMA has invested $65 million (including on the HNCMA catchment for improved wetlands, and agricultural land partner contributions) to catchment future funding allocations because of our management. These achievements improvements to see: performance and the social, economic are in line with the Australian and NSW • 978 projects carried out on landholder and environmental significance of the Governments’ efforts to reduce greenhouse properties catchment. This report is available at gas emissions. Overall, the catchment’s www.nrc.nsw.gov.au natural resources are improving. • 5113 hectares of native vegetation protected Climatic conditions over the past 12 This is the first year the HNCMA will be months have had an impact on our reporting against “management action • 543 kilometres of riverbanks restored programs throughout the catchment, targets” in our 10-year Catchment Action • 8677 hectares of gully erosion but in some regards it is a tale of two Plan. There are 27 of these HNCMA rehabilitated catchments. The lower catchment, on targets which directly contribute to the the urban fringes, has seen numerous NSW Government’s 13 natural resource • 526,031 local native plants established significant rainfall events in the past 12 management targets under the State Plan • 469.6 kilometres of rivers, gullies and months including significant flooding of the – Priority E4. wetlands protected with fencin Colo and Macdonald rivers and Mangrove It has been a very hard-working year − Creek. While in the upper catchment, During the year, the HNCMA finalised the fourth in the HNCMA’s history − for particularly around Goulburn there still its Corporate Plan which sets the all our clients, partners and staff. In most remains drought-like conditions. As a organisation’s values and objectives for instances we have exceeded our financial consequence some revegetation projects our work over the next four years. The and non-financial milestones in terms of have been delayed due to dry conditions, Corporate Plan was adopted by the outcomes and program uptake by the while in other parts of the catchment they HNCMA Board in January 2008 and will community and stakeholders. were delayed due to wet weather. be reviewed in June 2009. At 30 June 2008, we have completed In April 2008 the Australian Government I would like to congratulate the Premier four years of investment strategies which announced a major new direction in of NSW for seeking advice from the natural resource management funding Natural Resources Commission (NRC) with the Caring for Our Country Program on a process for allocating funding that replacing various programs including the Natural Heritage Trust, National Landcare
6 Program and Envirofund. This program will well-placed to participate in an audit that direct funding to six national priorities from will be carried out by the Natural Resource 1 July 2008. Commission in August 2008.
Prior to this announcement in late 2007, I would like to thank our partners throughout the HNCMA reconvened its five theme the year − the 302 landholders we funded, teams (soil, river health, biodiversity, 120 landcare groups, 23 local councils and community, and estuary and marine) which the range of community and indigenous originally contributed to the development groups, government agencies and non- of the Catchment Action Plan. Two rounds government organisations who worked with of meeting were held to get stakeholder us to improve this spectacular catchment. and community input into identifying the The Board and management team at the issues and gaps in investment for the HNCMA recognises the growing need 2008/09 period. The HNCMA’s previous year’s Annual to attract new third-party investment in Report was recognised with a bronze As a result of this planning work, the natural resource management. To this award in the Australian Reporting Awards HNCMA has now approved a $11.3 million end, the HNCMA further developed in May 2008 and has confirmed that our dollar Investment Program for the 2008/09 its Investment Prospectus which aims reporting systems are at a high standard, transition year of the Caring for Our to identify the opportunities that the which we aim to continually improve. Country Program. In addition the HNCMA corporate and industry sector can invest in submitted Expressions of Interest for a environmental projects in the catchment. In Finally I would like to thank our Directors number of landscape-scale projects under 2008/09, this prospectus will be marketed and staff for their hard-working the contestible component of the Caring to targeted stakeholders. contributions over the past year. We all for Our Country Program. look forward to continuing this great work I am very proud of the inaugural with our partners and community in the In the first half of 2008, the HNCMA Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Forum year ahead. completed a major internal review of which the HNCMA held in November projects. This review investigated all 2007 attracting over 100 landcarers the HNCMA’s incentive and community from across the catchment. The forum support projects to identify improvements provided a platform for recognising the for the next funding phase. A key finding tremendous efforts of our 2500-plus was the need to improve documentation landcarers in the catchment and sharing of the processes, as well as the logic and information between the groups. In 2007, evidence behind each of the projects and five local landcare award winners went John Klem this was carried out by 30 June 2008. onto the NSW Landcare Awards where Chair two won their categories and will represent As a result of these last two initiatives, I am the catchment at the National Landcare Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment pleased to report that the HNCMA was Awards in October 2008. Management Authority
Floods just prior to the reporting period, in June 2007, saw rivers in the northern catchment rise up to 13 metres and these floods had an impact on the timing of some on-ground activities in the affacted valleys in 2007/08
7 GENERAL MANAGER’S MESSAGE
This year’s annual report details the A program of continuous improvement document management system, called continued progress we have made in investment decisions has led to “Objective”, was developed and will towards achieving the outcomes relevant and effective improvements be rolled out in 2008/09. This system identified in our corporate plan, in the catchment. will greatly improve efficient storage our CAP and State Plan priorities and retrieval of documentation for We have continued to work closely with particularly E4 - Better environmental governance purposes. the Department of Environment and outcomes for native vegetation, biodiversity, Climate Change (DECC) and the Natural We look forward to the August 2008 NRC land, rivers and coastal waterways. Resources Commission (NRC) this year to Audit to benchmark our effectiveness of With the approval of our CAP by the ensure that our business systems comply our operational systems and as a tool for NSW Government in December 2007, with the required standard to deliver our incremental improvement in quality delivery our staff and collaborative partners CAP and annual implementation plan. Our of the CAP and risk management. were focused this year on achieving our internal business systems were continually In the first half of 2008, we also made catchment and state targets over a period upgraded during the year in terms of considerable steps towards introducing of significant NRM policy transition. In the their functionality and the quality of data landscape-scale planning and project last six months of the financial year, the control to ensure compliance with our implementation. This approach has been HNCMA has been focused on successfully own corporate requirements and the NRC useful in the development of proposals wrapping up our NHT2 commitments standard. These systems include the Land for the contestable funding component of whilst preparing for the introduction of Management Database (a spatial reference the Caring for Our Country Program and our Caring for Our Country investment of project information), the Hawkesbury broader investment opportunities. program in 2008/09. Information Management System (HIMS, a project management database) and This landscape-scale direction which the Staff have put particular energy into the the Hawkesbury Expenditure Reporting HNCMA is taking was further developed preparation of our 2008/09 Investment System (financial management database). through a two-day staff workshop in the Program which the HNCMA forwarded The HIMS system has been so successful Southern Highlands − “Caring for our to the NSW and Australian Governments that two other NSW CMAs have adopted Catchment - planning for the future” − during June 2008 for approval. and implemented the system in 2007/08. which brought together all staff to develop This past year has been particularly plans for the future deliver of the Caring During the year the HNCMA also successful for the HNCMA’s internally for Our Country Program including ideas addressed a need to improve project and externally managed projects which for collaborating with communities and documentation capture within our exceeded their planned performance agencies at the landscape-scale. business systems which was identified outcomes and financial milestones. through an internal project evaluation The new strategies we developed in Through our improved business systems in 2008. In addition, we have partnered 2007/08 − including our Collaboration and we have been better placed to monitor and with the Department of Commerce and Engagement Strategy, Communication quality control the delivery of these projects. other CMAs to ensure that a major new Strategy and Investment Prospectus − will
In 2007 all HNCMA staff and Board received Aboriginal cross-cultural training held in the Megalong Valley
8 ensure that the HNCMA is well placed to we will ensure compliance with fraud further develop this partnership approach control strategy requirements, the and attract additional investment through effectiveness of the Finance, Audit and corporate and industry partnerships. Governance Committee in terms of audit and risk management, internal audit, control The challenge of climate change is an and disclosure strategy requirements issue that the HNCMA continues to address through all our projects which I thank my NSW CMA General Manager aim to protect and restore resilient colleagues for their continued support landscapes which are better able to adapt in developing cross-CMAs business to the predicted changes. In addition, the efficiencies as well as the sharing of best HNCMA continued its partnership with practice knowledge and resources. DECC and the Blue Mountains World Our focus on natural resource Heritage Institute to carry out research management delivery has been into impacts and management options for underpinned by the support of DECC who climate change in the World Heritage Area. have provided essential service delivery The HNCMA invested in further developing and project collaboration. I thank DECC staff skills and knowledge during the year. and their Director General Lisa Corbyn. In particular, staff participated in critical I want to thank our expert staff at the training areas including OH&S; Aboriginal HNCMA for their professionalism, passion Cultural Heritage training; Aboriginal Cultural Bernie Bugden and performance during a such a dynamic site identification; Monitoring, Evaluation operating environment in 2007/08. General Manager Reporting and Improvement; Climate Change Adaptation; Native Vegetation In 2007/08 it has been a pleasure Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment management and corporate governance. working with John Klem our Chair and his Management Authority The HNCMA also sponsored Mr Daniel committed Board. I thank them for their Hartwell to undertake Unit Four of the NSW leadership and support which has allowed Public Sector Management Program. us to deliver such pleasing outcomes in a safe, fair and satisfying workplace. Looking forward in 2008/09, the HNCMA will ensure compliance with the recommendations of the Stein Inquiry and also the NSW Auditor General’s letter to CEOs relating to principles of corporate governance and assessment. In particuliar,
9 KEY PERFORMANCE RESULTS
On ground results This investment delivered the • 2210 hectares protected from following results: soil erosion In 2007/08, the Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA’s programs and partnerships • 302 new partnership projects • 161 kilometres of sensitive gullies, delivered $20.2 million in on ground carried out with private landholders riverbanks and wetlands were fenced catchment improvements (including • 2160.50 hectares of native vegetation • 112,216 native plants established partner contributions) through four program conserved areas: biodiversity, river health, soil and • 79 off-river stock watering systems land, and community partnerships. • 1567.30 hectares of native vegetation installed revegetated or rehabilitated The objectives of many of the projects • 141 kilometres of riverbanks and undertaken during the year were effectively beds were rehabilitated achieved as they meet a variety of State and Catchment Action Plan targets.
Non-financial performance The HNCMA was contracted by the NSW and Australian Governments to deliver specific outcomes through its Investment Strategy. The following graphs highlight results against Catchment Action Plan targets in 2007/08 and also on a four year comparison.
10 performance against catchment action plan targets
3918% This graph shows the HNCMA’s 2007/08 250% 490% performance against 16 of the numerical Biodiversity management actions targets for year one of the Catchment Action Plan Water
Land 200% Community
150%
100%
50%
0
to capability on riverbanks from erosionLand managed Barriers removedplans prepared Lands protected or rehabilitated for conservationPlants established Riverbank managed Saline areas fenced Indigenousprogram trainning provided Native veg conserved Riverbanks managed Watland management Native veg establishedNative Veg revegetated for assisted vegetation Large landholdersSmall landholders trained trained Management plans prepared Landcare groups supported
11 350 2500 ha
300 2000 ha
250
1500 ha 200
150 1000 ha
100
500 ha 50
0 0
200 km 2500 ha
2000 ha 150 km
1500 ha
100KEY km PERFORMANCE RESULTS (continued)
1000 ha
50 km 500 ha
fou0r year performance comparison 0
$25350 m total investment - 2500 ha hncma & project partners 300 $20 m 2000 ha
250
$15 m 1500 ha 350 Landholder partnerships 2500 ha 200
300 150 $10 m 1000 ha 2000 ha 250 100 1500 ha $5 m 500 ha 200 50
150 0 0 1000 ha 04/05 05/06 06/07 07/08 100 200 km riverbanks, gullies, 2500 ha 350 2500 ha wetlands fenced 500 ha 50
300 2000 ha 1502000 km ha 0 0 04/05 05/06 06/07 07/08 250 1500 ha 200 km 2500 ha 1500 ha 200 100 km
1000 ha 2000 ha 150 150 km 1000 ha 350 2500 ha native vegetation conserved 50 km 100 500 ha 1500 ha 300 500 ha 100 km 50 2000 ha 0 250 0 1000 ha 04/05 05/06 06/07 07/08 0 0 $25 m 1500 ha lan200 d treated for soil erosion 50 km 200 km 2500 ha 500 ha
150 $20 m 1000 ha 2000 ha 0 0 150 km 100
$15 m $25 500m ha 1500 ha 50
100 km $10 m 0 $20 m 0 04/05 05/06 06/07 07/08 1000 ha 200 km 2500 ha $15 m 50 km $5 m 500 ha 2000 ha 150 km 0 $10 m 0 0 04/05 05/06 06/07 07/08 1500 ha $25 m $5 m 100 km 12 1000 ha $20 m 0 50 km 500 ha $15 m
0 0 $10 m $25 m
$5 m $20 m
0 $15 m
$10 m
$5 m
0 Financial Performance Proportion of HNCMA Expenditure (excluding partner contributions) by State Wide Theme 2007/08 Financial and project business management systems were further developed and improved by the HNCMA Biodiversity in 2007/08 to ensure tight budgetary $8.5 Million - 55% control, cash flow management, and close Water monitoring of on-ground performance. The $3.8 Million - 25% monitoring allowed adaptive management of projects and concise and timely Land reporting to the HNCMA’s investors. $2.1 Million - 13% Community $1.1 Million - 7%
expenditure categories 2007/08
On ground 83.4% Coordination 13.1% Monitoring and Evaluation 3.5%
Proportion of HNCMA Expenditure by State Wide Theme 2007/08
4.0
Biodiversity 3.5
Water
3.0 Land
2.5 Community
2.0 Investment ($mil) 1.5
1.0
0.5
0.0 Note: State Targets 6 and 7 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 13 are not included here - see State Wide Target Number page 46 for an explanation
13 KEY PERFORMANCE RESULTS (continued)
$20,000,000 18.1 mil 17.6 mil $17,500,000 16.9 mil 15,538,444
$15,000,000 13.5 mil 13.4 mil 13,453,127 12.9 mil
$12,500,000 12.3 mil 12 mil 11.6 mil 10,931,487
$10,000,000 9,530,783 9.1 mil 8.6 mil 8,580,851 8.2 mil
$7,500,000 7,221,986 6,284,764 5,389,726 $5,000,000 4,464,323 Actual Revenue
3,362,865 Revenue Plan
$2,500,000 2,044,314 Actual Expenditure
Expenditure Plan 774,015 HNCMA financial performance 2007/08 0 JUL 07 FEB 08 JAN 08 SEP 07 JUN 08 APR 08 DEC 07 MAY 08 MAY OCT 07 NOV 07 AUG 07 MAR 08
Strategic Planning • Reviewed and adopted a standard River Health Strategy risk management framework to This strategy, which directs the HNCMA’s Strategic Planning Committee provide basic procedures to be used in river health investment, continued to be In 2007/08, the HNMA’s Strategic Planning risk assessment and management. implemented in 2007/08 and resulted Committee: Catchment Action Plan in funding and technical support to 133 • Developed the HNCMA Corporate landholder river restoration projects on The Minister for Environment and Plan many priority river reaches. Climate Change launched the HNCMA’s • Reviewed and developed the HNCMA Catchment Action Plan – a strategic Biodiversity Strategies Issues Filter that determines the 10-year vision and set of targets for the The HNCMA supported Upper Lachlan level of risk to the catchment and the catchment – in March 2008. The CAP also Shire Council in developing a Biodiversity HNCMA from NRM issues contributes to the targets in the State Plan. Planning Framework during the year and • Adopted the Strategic Management As part of an adaptive management assisted Goulburn-Mulwaree Council in Framework based on the approach approach, the five theme teams (soil, river finalising their Biodiversity Strategy. used by the Premiers Department to health, biodiversity, community, and estuary During the year, the HNCMA incorporated provide structure for the Committee’s and marine) were reconvened in late 2007 priorities from Regional Corridors operation for two meetings to identify gaps and issues assessments and priority habitats mapping in investment for the 2008/09 period. into HNCMA biodiversity projects. • Developed a Strategic Planning Calendar
14 KEY PARTNERSHIPS • Worked with local government in the • Invested $80,000 in an organic STRENGTHENED catchment to align Local Environment composts project in partnership with Plans with the HNCMA’s Catchment DECC to improve land degradation. The HNCMA’s partnerships with Action Plan This initiative was recognised with community and government are an award in the NSW Compost State Government fundamental to successful natural Awards 2008. resource improvements on the ground. • Funded 17 partnership projects with In 2007/08, the HNCMA continued the Department of Environment and Industry and the corporate sector to expand and strengthen its key Climate Change (DECC)to tackle • Initiated development of the HNCMA partnerships, particularly as the HNCMA threatened species and biodiversity Investment Prospectus to encourage moved towards landscape-scale delivery projects including the Southern new industry/corporate sector of natural resource management projects. Sydney Fauna Survey, North-West investment in natural resource Partnership highlights included: threatened flora mapping, and projects in the catchment and enable vegetation mapping of the Yengo skills/capacity to be shared between Local Government the HNCMA and the corporate/ • Initiated a new joint management • Invested $954,804 during the year in industry sector council led natural resource projects agreement with the Sydney Catchment from rounds 4, 5 and 6 of the Local Authority and Southern Rivers CMA • Corporate projects such included Government Partnership Program to see a further $1.4 million invested development of the Waterwise in the Catchment Protection Scheme Demonstration Garden in Penrith with • Initiated a review of the HNCMA’s over the next year funding from Coles. Local Government Partnership Program and the Board sub- • Invested $852,270 in four partnership committee the Local Government projects with the Department of Primary Advisory Group which represents 23 Industries to address land management councils in the catchment and drought management
• Restructured Local Government • Continued ongoing support for pest Advisory Group meetings (held animal control in three Rural Land bi-monthly) to include a quarterly forum Protection Board areas dedicated to a single natural resource related issue to share knowledge and learning on this issue in greater depth.
The Hon. Linda Burney (left) presents Mark Johnson, CEO of the Gandagarra Aboriginal Land Council with their NSW Landcare Award
15 KEY PERFORMANCE RESULTS (continued)
Community NATIVE VEGETATION • 7 clearing proposals were evaluated as needing Development Property • Supported 120 landcare groups MANAGEMENT Vegetation Plans (PVPs) under the across the catchment to carry out The HNCMA invested $605, 061 in Act, and 1 landholder requested a riverbank and bushland imrprovements its own Bushland Conservation Project Continuing Use PVP for their regrowth and sustainable agricultural projects to deliver 72 projects with private clearing proposal. • Hosted the inaugural Hawkesbury- landholders which protected and • Assessment of 3 Property Nepean Landcare Forum in November restored 1,213 hectares of native Vegetation Plans completed, 2007 to share knowledge between vegetation, compared with 700 hectares resulting in 1 Development PVP and 1 groups and recognise group the previous year. Continuing Use PVP completed, and 1 achievements Across all HNCMA funded projects a total PVP refused or “red lighted”. • Released the “Healing Our Catchment” of 2160 hectares of native vegetation which detail the annual achievements was conserved during the year. of Landcare groups in the catchment In terms of native vegetation management • Developed five Indigenous training and land clearing the HNCMA: programs in natural resource • Received 108 enquiries from management across the catchment landholders and agencies.
• Received over 100,000 individual visits • 37 of the clearing proposals were to the HNCMA website during the year determined to be covered by Routine and over 60 on-line inquiries Agricultural Management Activities or excluded from the Act,
• 11 clearing proposals were investigated by analysis of historic aerial photographs to determine if the vegetation proposed for clearing was regrowth not requiring approval to be cleared. 6 proposals were confirmed as being regrowth vegetation.
Inspecting naturally regenerating bushland - with landholder Matthew O’Donoghue (left) on his property near Goulburn with HNCMA Chair, John Klem (centre) and Director Ken Wheelwright
16 Looking Ahead to 2008/09 Looking ahead to 2008/09, some of the key projects the HNCMA plans to deliver include:
• Moving towards implementing landscape-scale projects with a major focus on multiple partnerships, including both corporate and government investors
• Reviewing the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Action Plan (CAP) and all the targets within it to ensure the CAP aligns effectively with Australian Government’s Caring For Our Country Business Plan as well the NSW Government’s State Plan
• Deliver a $11.3 million Investment Program in the 2008/09 transitional year of Caring for Our Country
• Developing an Investment Program for an anticipated 3-4 year funding cycle
• Assisting the NSW Government in the following review processes:
• Natural Resources Commission’s audit of the HNCMA due in August 2008
• Auditor General’s 2008 financial audit and review of government arrangements
• NSW Government’s Efficiency and Effectiveness Review
• Implementing organisational strategies developed in 2008/09 including Risk, Knowledge, Monitoring Evaluation and Reporting, Collaboration & Community Engagement strategies
• Implementing across the HNCMA a range of corporate Information Technology systems including:
• the document management system - “Objective”
• the SAP Investment Module and Project Structure Module in partnership with ServiceFIRST
• the PADAC Native Vegetation Management software in partnership with the Department of Environment and Climate Change
• Anticipated change in HNCMA Board members with five members terms ending in October 2008 and March 2009 will provide an opportunity to refocus HNCMA vision and future direction
• Finalising and reporting of NHT2 which officially ends in December 2008
• Local Government Partnership Review to assess potential change to local government engagement structures
17 PROFILE OF THE REGION - A catchment of national significance
The Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment • Is enjoyed by 43,000 recreational is a truly critical catchment in terms fishers. of the nation’s economic, social • Supplies 80% of the sand and gravel and environmental well being. The used in Sydney’s construction industry catchment: worth an estimated $100 million a year. • Stretches 22,000 square kilometres • Generates over $60 million annually in (2.2 million hectares) from south of tourism and recreation from more than Goulburn to near Cessnock, west from 10 million visitors to the catchment Lithgow to Palm Beach on the coast each year. and north to the Putty Valley. • Provides 23% of NSW’s electricity • Feeds a river system which flows 470 using water from the Coxs River in kilometres from near Lake Bathurst to the Wallerwang and Lower Portland Broken Bay. power stations. • Includes major rivers such as the • Protects 50% of the catchment in over Hawkesbury, Nepean, Wollondilly, 1 million hectares of National Parks Mulwaree, Tarlo, Wingecarribee, Nattai, and reserves. Nepean, Coxs, Kowmung, Grose, Capertee, Colo and Macdonald. • Boasts the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area that includes the • Provides the majority of the drinking 13% of the worlds Eucalypt species water for over 4 million people living and almost 10% of Australia’s vascular in Sydney, the Illawarra, the Blue plant species. Mountains, the Southern Highlands, Lithgow Valley and the Central Coast • Protects 288 threatened species (28% (70% of New South Wales population). of all New South Wales’ threatened species) as well as 33 endangered • Supplies water used to produce 70% ecological communities of NSW’s goods and services. • Supports 22 species of frogs, 17 • Supports a regional population of 1 species of snakes, 42 species of million people which is expected to lizards, 1 species of turtle, 2 species grow to 1.3 million by 2019. of monotremes, 30 species of • Home to 15.6% of New South Wales marsupials, 21 species of bats, 6 Aboriginal population. species of native rodents, the dingo
• Generates over $1 billion each year in agriculture and horticulture (12% of all NSW’s agriculture production). This includes $600 million of irrigated agriculture which provides much of Sydney’s fresh vegetables, flowers and fruit.
• Supports over $6 million a year in commercial seafood industries (including the state’s second largest estuarine trawl industry for prawns and squid).
18 Landholder projects funded by the HNCMA in 2007/08 (!
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(! (! (! (! (! St Albans (!# #(!(! (! (! ! (! (! ( (! (! (! (! (! Wisema(!ns Ferry (! (! # (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (!( (! (! (! (! (! (! L(!it(!hgow !! # (! (!( (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! Rich(!(!mond(! ! # (! (! (!(! ( (!(! (! (! Blackheath (! (! (! #(! (! (! (! ! (! K(! (atoomba (! (! #(! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!! ((! Mulgoa (! Jenolan Caves #(!(! # (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! Camden # (! (! # ! ((!(! (! (! (! (!Picton (! # (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (!
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(! (! (! (! Wollongong Taralga # # (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! ! ( (! (! (! (! M(!oss Val(!e (! (! # (! (! Legend (! (! (!(! (! (! ! (! (! (! (!(! ( # Towns (! (! ! (! ( (! HNCMA ! (! (! (! (! ( (! (! (! (! (! (! (! Reservoirs (! (! (! Marulan (! # Rivers (! (! (!(! (! (! (! Goulburn # ! (! Reserved Lands (! ( (! State Forests (! (!(! SF SF (! (! (! (! (! HNCMA Funded Projects 2007-08 (! (! External Biodiversity Incentive Projects (! Wetlands Projects (! (! (! River Restoration Projects (!Tarago # (! Bushland Projects (! Catchment Protection Scheme 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 (! Strategic Weed Projects µ Kilometers
19 WHO WE ARE
and over 450 species of birds OUR VISION OUR INVESTMENT PRIORITIES NATURAL RESOURCE A healthy and productive catchment The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA targets its MANAGEMENT IN THE valued now and into the future investment to ensure the most effective CATCHMENT environmental outcomes with the following priorities to: The State and Australian governments provide substantial investment for OUR FUNCTION • improve river health including stable managing the natural resources of the and healthy riparian areas The specific functions of the CMAs, as Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment. The defined by Section 15 of the Catchment • protect biodiversity values by Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA is one of Management Authorities Act 2003, are to: improving the extent, quality and several state and local government connectivity of native terrestrial and agencies working to improve the 1. Develop Catchment Action Plans and aquatic habitats catchment. State agencies, such as ensure their delivery through annual Department of Primary Industries, Sydney implementation programs • identify and encourage best Catchment Authority, Department of practice in land management that 2. Provide loans, grants, subsidies Environment and Climate Change, supports management of land within or other financial assistance for Department of Water and Energy, its capability and suitability, and catchment activities Department of Lands and Rural Land addresses salinity and degradation Protection Boards, have responsibilities 3. Enter contracts or do any work • undertake strategic pest plant and defined by state legislation. Many of for the purpose of catchment activities animal management that focuses these organisations also protect natural 4. Assist landholders to achieve on emerging and localised weeds, resources using regulatory mechanisms. the objectives of the Catchment and implementing effective, The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA has Action Plan coordinated control regulatory functions in relation to 5. Provide educational and training • support greater involvement of the the Native Vegetation Act 2003. The courses and materials in connection Indigenous community in NRM, HNCMA determines the needs for overall with NRM particularly where it provides ongoing management of the catchment’s natural business opportunities including the resources and invests State and Australian 6. Exercise any function relating to natural identification of Indigenous cultural Government funds in priority NRM projects resource management as prescribed values and to improve the environmental health by the regulations. of the catchment. The HNCMA undertakes • build stakeholder awareness, this role by working with state agencies, organisational capacity and community local government, Landcare and empowerment and resourcing Bushcare, Aboriginal groups, landholders, that supports the implementation primary producers, the community and of the CAP. other industries.
20 OUR INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES THE LEGISLATION AND POLICY CONTACT INFORMATION WE OPERATE UNDER The HNCMA will apply the following investment principles to the • Catchment Management Authorities Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment implementation of the CAP: Act 2003 Management Authority offices:
• successful existing programs that • Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 Goulburn (Principal Office) provide an efficient and effective base • Public Finance and Audit Regulation for future development 159 Auburn Street, Goulburn 2580 2000 along with other related • support for Australian and NSW government policy and directions Locked Bag 2048 Government investor priorities from the Minister Climate Change and Tel (02) 4828 6747 Environment • protection of areas of high biodiversity value, building on these as the basis • Native Vegetation Act 2003 Lithgow for environmental protection • Water Management Act 2000 Cnr Mort and Eskbank Street • maximisation of opportunities for • Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act partnerships with local government PO Box 331, Lithgow 2790 1984, and the • appreciation and support of the Tel (02) 6350 3110 • Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) involvement of local implementation Regulation 2000 through landcare Moss Vale As well as the: • recognition and use of the expertise of Shop 1, Calaroga Centre, HNCMA implementation staff • Bilateral Agreement between the Kirkham Street and contractors. Commonwealth Government and the State of New South Wales to deliver PO Box 957, Moss Vale 2577 the Natural Heritage Trust Funds – Tel (02) 4861 9010 August 2003.
Windsor 68 Mileham Street, South Windsor PO Box 556, Windsor 2756 Tel (02) 4587 0050
www.hn.cma.nsw.gov.au
21 OUR BOARD
John Klem Angus Gibson Jenny Smith
Area of expertise: Native vegetation; Area of expertise: River health; biodiversity Landcare; and primary production conservation; environmental, social and economic analysis Angus Gibson was appointed to the Area of expertise: Community Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA Board in Jenny Smith was appointed as a Director engagement; education; Landcare, May 2004 and his current term runs until the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment primary production October 2008. Management Authority in May 2004 and John Klem was appointed Chair of the current terms runs until October 2008. Angus operates a grazing and rural Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA in February tourism property on the Mulwaree Chain Jenny lives in the Blue Mountains and 2004 and in 2008 his term was extended of Ponds Rivulet near Goulburn. Angus previously worked as an environmental to from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2011. John holds a Bachelor of Applied Science consultant for five years. Prior to operates a grazing property 30 kilometres (Wildlife Biology and NRM) from the concentrating on catchment management, from Goulburn and he holds a Diploma in University of Canberra. He is currently she owned and managed various business Agriculture from Hawkesbury Agricultural the Chair of the Wollondilly Landcare enterprises over 17 years. College and a Bachelor of Arts (Education) Committee and was formerly a member of from the University of Canberra. Jenny has carried out post-graduate the Wollondilly Catchment Management studies in Environmental Science at He is currently a member of the Australian Committee. Angus is also a member of Macquarie University. Jenny has been Landcare Council and NSW Landcare the Mulwaree Ponds Landcare Group. a board member of the Hawkesbury- Committee and has been appointed to the Angus has completed training in Corporate Nepean Catchment Management Board, Natural Resources Advisory Committee Governance by the Australian Institute for represented the NSW Nature Conservation (NRAC) to represent coastal Catchment Company Directors (AICD). Council on the Hawkesbury-Nepean River Management Authorities and the Hotspots Management Forum and was a Trustee Fire project. on the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment John is also a member of the NSW Management Trust and Program Leader Coastal Envirofund Assessment Panel, the of the Community Action and Education NSW Assessment Panel for Threatened Programs in that organisation. Species, and the NSW Strategic Reserve She has served as a member of the Funding Panel. He is also a member of the Total Environment Centre’s Management Heffernans Creek Landcare Group. Committee and is on the Board of John was formerly the Chair of the the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Wollondilly Catchment Management Foundation. Jenny has completed training Committee, Chair of the Hawkesbury- in Corporate Governance by the Australian Nepean Catchment Management Institute for Company Directors (AICD). Trust, Chair of the State Catchment Management Coordinating Committee and a member of the Native Vegetation Council and the Sydney Catchment Authority Board. In 1988, John won the Conservation Farmer of the Year Award. John has completed training in Corporate Governance by the Australian Institute for Company Directors (AICD).
22 Kenneth Wheelwright Mary Howard Bob Wilson
Area of expertise: Business administration; primary production Area of expertise: Water management; financial management; State and Local Kenneth Wheelwright was appointed as a Government administration Director to the Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA in May 2004 and his current term runs until Robert (Bob) Wilson was appointed as October 2008. Director to the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority in Kenneth operates a grazing property August 2004 and his current term runs on the upper reaches of the Wollondilly until March 2009. River. He has an active interest in Area of expertise: Estuary management; developing sustainable and profitable farm aquatic biodiversity Bob is currently the Chair of the management practices. Independent Expert Panel on Mary Howard was appointed as Director Environmental Flows in the Hawkesbury- Kenneth holds a degree in Rural Science to the Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA in Nepean, Woronora and Shoalhaven from the University of New England, and August 2004 and her current term runs Rivers. This panel advises the the has been involved in teaching agriculture until March 2009. Government on river health issues in the to tertiary students. More recently, he Mary has a background in farming and Hawkesbury-Nepean River. obtained a Bachelor of Business from boat building and is involved in a family Charles Sturt University and received Bob has held several senior government prawn trawl business on the Hawkesbury training in Holistic Management. Kenneth sector positions including Secretary River and is an associate member of the is also a member of the Board of the for Lands, Registrar General, Chief Hawkesbury Trawl Association. Mary has Sydney Catchment Authority. He is also a Commissioner for Water Resources and an Advanced Certificate in Aquaculture member of the Roslyn Landcare Group. Managing Director of Sydney Water. Production (Freshwater). Ken has completed training in Corporate He has served on a variety of Boards Governance by the Australian Institute for Mary has a long history of community including NSW Treasury Corporation, Company Directors (AICD). activity and industry representation Sydney Water Board, Hunter Water Board, including as a former member of the Snowy Mountains Council, Murray River Hawkesbury-Nepean River Management Commission, Public Interest Advocacy Forum, and a member of the Women’s Centre, NSW Sustainable Energy Advisory Industry Seafood Network. Mary is a Committee, Zoological Parks Board, and graduate of the Australian Institute for Royal Botanical Gardens & Domain Trust. Company Directors training in 2006 and Bob holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) is a member of the Australian Water degree from the University of Sydney, is Association and member of the Australian a Certified Practicing Accountant and Institute for Company Directors. Mary was a member of the Australian Computer runner-up in the 2006 NSW Rural Woman Society, the Australian Water Association of the Year Award. and the Institute of Public Administration. Bob has completed training in Corporate Governance by the Australian Institute for Company Directors (AICD).
23 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Role of the Board To promote high standards of governance The HNCMA implements it functions responsibilities the Board has implemented in a dynamic policy environment. The The affairs of the HNCMA are directed a number of initiatives that include: Board obtains up- to-date information by the Board of the HNCMA. The Board on new policy and future business is appointed by, and accountable to • Completion of Director training opportunities, in a manner that enhances the Minister for Environment, Climate in Corporate Governance by the its corporate governance accountabilities, Change and Water, and is committed Australian Institute for Company through director and senior staff to implementing high standards of Directors (AICD) by all Directors and networking that include: corporate governance that enhance the the General Manager. In 2007/08 accountability of both the Board and HNCMA Executive staff also undertook • The personal professional and staff to Government and community. AICD training and all directors and administrative networks of the This commitment reflects the Authority’s General Manager completed refresher directors, and senior staff, training. statutory administrative and operational • Advice from partner state government accountabilities (defined by legislation • Established subcommittees, with agencies through Service Level under “Who We Are”). defined accountabilities, for: Agreements host agency for shared corporate services and agency service The HNCMA Board has established the * Finance, Audit and Corporate providers under other agreements Finance, Audit and Corporate Governance Governance Committee (FACG) to oversee internal and MoU’s. * Strategic Planning matters of corporate governance and to • Chairman’s participation in CMA Chairs * Local Government Advisory Group provide recommendations, both to the Council meetings. This meeting is also Board and Government, on issues and * Aboriginal Advisory Committee supported and advised by the DoC/ matters requiring improved statutory * Executive Committee DECC executive, and or other director compliance. The Annual Report of the * Occupational Health and Safety participation in SLA working groups. Finance, Audit and Corporate Governance Committee Committee is included as a preamble in • Advice and audit opinions from: the Financial Reporting section of this The operation of these committees is * State Audit office regarding annual report. directed by Terms of Reference approved annual audits by the Board (and in terms of the OH&S Committee by the Occupational Health * Australian Government – following Act and Regulation) and serve to monitor an audit of the HNCMA’s the HNCMA’s compliance with NSW Corporate Governance processes government policy and legislation and (Walter Turnbull) promote best practice business outcomes. * Natural Resources Commission Appendix I provides a full listing of the – following audit of HNCMA HNCMA’s sub committee activities NRM Systems and service level agreements with * Deloitte Audit of HNCMA Project government agencies. Administration commissioned by the Joint Steering Committee and HNCMA
* Internal Audit by Walter Turnbull to review HNCMA on-ground project implementation
• Implementation of Board policy, including Complaints Handling Policy and Corruption and Fraud Control Policy, through client contact and advice from supporting agencies
• Development of HNCMA strategic and business plans and supporting advice from government.
• Access to policy update e-mails/ internet access to advice from key CMA agency regulators
• Routine Ministerial / host agency correspondence and directions. 24 Chairman, Director Corporate Governance Board Access to and General Manager Highlights of 2007/08 Management and Performance Assessment Mechanisms for Key details of these achievements are Developing Agency The role of the Chairman is directed by included in the Annual Report of the Knowledge the letter of personal appointment from Finance, Audit and Corporate Governance the Minister. The Chairman’s performance Committee 2007/08. This report provides The Board directs and controls HNCMA in executing these roles is assessed by a number of recommendations that have operations by initiating the development of, the Minister using a common statewide been endorsed by the Board to promote and monitoring the implementation of, key methodology in a process that is improved internal audit and controls business documents that include the: coordinated by the CMA Chair’s Council. improved governance outcomes. • Catchment Action Plan and Annual The performance of the Directors and the The HNCMA implements Financial Implementation Plan prior to General Manager is assessed annually Management Delegations that were submission to government, by the Chairman using the common approved in accordance with Section 18 • NHT Investment Strategy, Caring statewide methodology. Outcomes from of the Catchment Management Act 2003 For Our Country Investment Program this assessment inform the Chair of any by the Board in 2006. Implementation of and Investment Prospectus director’s training and development needs, these delegations, and their effectiveness, as well as other issues of director/General are monitored by the Finance, Audit and • HNCMA annual Business Plan Manager performance that may require Corporate Governance Committee. and budgets personal intervention by the Chair. During In the past year, the HNCMA revised a The Board coordinates the development the year, directors attended a second number of its business and governance of these strategic documents through round of governance training (ACID) and systems to promote improved business director participation in sub committee Aboriginal Cultural Heritage training. efficiencies and individual and corporate and working group meetings, participation Each Board director, in response to accountabilities. Details of these in community forums, and by final Board their personal skills and qualifications, achievements are included in the level determination of the documents implements portfolio responsibilities Annual Report of the Finance Audit and prior to submission to government. The aligned to the HNCMA’s operational Corporate Governance Committee. These FACG monitors HNCMA financial and priorities. Directors convene and attend initiatives included: administrative compliance. routine sub committee meetings, • Implementation of audit findings of the community consultation meetings, and/ or NSW Audit Office’s annual review of represent the HNCMA at external events HNCMA activities, and audit initiated approved by the Chair. by the Joint Steering Committee of Directors prepare and submit business HNCMA administration of NHT funding papers for the Board consideration • Internal Audits of project administration detailing the work they undertake between by Walter Turnbull meetings and to provide recommendations on issues requiring a Board determination. • Continued development of project financial and activity reports
The Board also continued the development of its strategic planning process in partnership with the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) and used this process to finalise the HNCMA’s Strategic Plan.
25 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE (continued)
Directors have full and regular access to HNCMA Chief Executive HNCMA management. This outcomes is Officer promoted by: The HNCMA Chief Executive Officer • Routine meetings between the position is graded at Senior Officer Chairman and General Manager, Grade 1.
• Attendance of the HNCMA Executive This position is currently filled by Bernie at all open sessions of the Board, Bugden on a temporary basis subject • The active participation of Directors as to the implementation of a formal sub committee convenors/ members recruitment process by the Department with executive staff. of Environment and Climate Change at some future date. Mr Bugden was initially • Routine telephone, e-mail and appointed to this position for a period personal contact with managers of three years in April 2004 following an related to Director portfolio’s and sub externally advertised and competitive committee roles recruitment process administered by the • Full staff accountability to the Board former Department of Infrastructure and is further supported by a range Natural Resources. Following a recent of formal and informal reporting determination by the Director General processes that include: of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Mr Bugden has tenure in • General Manager reporting to this position until 2011. the Board The HNCMA Board reviews General • Submission of formal sub Manager performance annually by committees and working group monitoring organisational and personal reports (including financial and performance against the performance program activity reports) and criteria in the approved HNCMA recommendations to the Board, Business Plan. This plan defines staff and • Direct feed back on community organisational performance targets using issues through Director operational and financial performance participation in HNCMA community criteria from the Annual Implementation Plan consultation meetings and and approved budget as published in the reporting to the Board, NSW Government’s annual budget papers.
• FACG analysis and reporting on financial and operational audits undertaken by the NSW and Australian Governments
• Internal audits and reviews of HNCMA activities initiated by the Board on the recommendation of the FACG
• Director attendance at staff presentations on-ground project implementation.
• Board inspection and review of HNCMA project activities.
26 STRATEGIC PLANNING
In 2007/08 the HNCMA’s Strategic • Developed a Strategic Planning Looking ahead to 2008/09 Planning Committee focused on Calendar to ensure that the HNCMA The Strategic Planning Committee will: developing an understanding of the role is well prepared to meet key events and functions of strategic planning within and responsibilities. The Calendar also • Maintain the Strategic Calendar as the broader organisational framework. informs the Board Agenda. the basis of the work of the Strategic During the year the committee held Planning Committee, to provide • Developed the HNCMA Corporate 6 meetings. strategic direction to the business of the Plan. A workshop was held in CMA and input to the Board Agenda. Significant progress was made on the January 2008 to explore development development of a number of HNCMA of the Corporate Plan – how • Utilise a reporting format and checklist organisational strategies this year. These the values and objectives of the which reflects the form of the Strategic strategies provide direction for the HNCMA organisation focus the work we will progress letter prepared bi-annually for in the areas of: be doing for the next four years. The the Natural Resources Commission Corporate Plan was adopted at the • Communication (adopted) • Ensure that there are guiding January meeting of the CMA and will principles and key plans and • Collaboration and Community be reviewed in June 2009. strategies which reflect the NRC engagement (adopted) • Reviewed and adopted a standard Standard for Quality NRM. • Knowledge ( Draft) risk management framework. • Review and adaptively manage the The framework provides the basic • Monitoring and Evaluation (in internal strategies of the HNCMA. procedures to be used in risk development) assessment and management. With • Maintain the NRM Issues Filter and • Risk (procedure adopted, strategy appropriate modification to the scales Issues Register to provide strategic in development) it can be applied at any level within advice on issues management. the organisation. These strategies have assisted a continuous review of priorities using • Reviewed and adopted a Terms the principles of adaptive management. of Reference. Review of the development and implementation, of these strategies according to the HNCMA Strategic HNCMA Strategic Plan Planning Calendar ensures that the Strategic Planning Committee organisation continues to progress One Year cycle the most effective and efficient use of our resources.
Corporate Plan 3-5 years Achievements in 2007/08: HNCMA BOARD HNCMA BOARD • Review and development of the HNCMA Issues Filter. The Filter now provides a faster, simpler method of determining the level of risk to the catchment and the CMA from NRM Review of Catchment Catchment Plan issues. The template can be adopted Action Plan 10 Years across the organisation for use by other subcommittees including in the Organisational/ development of risk management Business Management action plans. FACG Committee • Adopted the Strategic Management Annual Plans Regional Investment Framework based on the approach *Annual Implementation Plan Strategy used by the Premiers Department to *Business Plan Investment Program provide structure for the Committee’s Annual processes 3-4 years operation. The HNCMA has adopted the three fundamental components of this framework – the Corporate Plan, the Strategic Plan and the use of an annual calendar as the basis of Budget Processes strategic and operational planning.
27 BIODIVERSITY
Littorial Rainforest at Pittwater, one of the 33 endangered ecological communities 28 in the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment 324 HECTARES OF NATIVE VEGETATION ESTABLISHED target exceeded by 120%
2160.5 HECTARES OF NATIVE VEGETATION CONSERVED target exceeded by 490% 1567.8 HECTARES REVEGETATED OR REHABILITATEDtarget exceeded by 3918%
29 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
State Target − E4.1 Native vegetation By 2015 there is an increase in native vegetation extent and an improvement in native vegetation condition.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENT 2007/08 The HNCMA moved substantially to achieve the state target and exceeded all annual targets for native vegetation.
MAT B1-1 Revegetation to replace clearing
By 2016, 2300 hectares of native vegetation have been established through revegetation to replace native vegetation cleared in each landscape. Target Year 1: 250 hectares of native vegetation TARGET established 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 324.97 hectares of native vegetation established
MAT B1-2 Conservation of native vegetation
By 2016, 2300 hectares of native vegetation has been conserved through landholder action. Target Year 1: TARGET 250 hectares of native vegetation conserved OUTCOME 07/08 Outcome: 1241 hectares of native vegetation conserved MAT B2-1 Remnant buffers
By 2016, the condition of native vegetation has been improved by active/passive regeneration of buffers of at least 20 metres around high priority, existing remnants resulting in an increase of 360 hectares under active/passive regeneration. Target Year 1: 40 hectares revegetated, or rehabilitated TARGET through direct seeding
07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 1564.3 hectares revegetated, or rehabilitated through direct seeding
HNCMA projects contributing to targets
• Bushland Conservation Project
• Native Vegetation Management
• Local Provenance Seed Strategy Implementation
• Local Government Partnership Program
30 HNCMA PARTNERSHIP Projects COntributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08 Cumberland Plain Landholder Incentives DECC To enhance management of significant 454,544 Cumberland Plain remnants of endangered ecological communities of the Cumberland Plain on private land through a targeted incentive program. Vegetation Mapping of Yengo Subregion DECC To map a number of gaps in 88,000 Yengo subregion detailed vegetation mapping in the Yengo subregion of the Hawkesbury- Nepean catchment. Identifying and Managing Threatened DECC To improve the conservation of threatened 16,500 North-west Flora in North West flora within the north-west of the of the catchment Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment.
Challenges in 2007/08 Looking forward to 2008/09
Once again the drought impacted In the coming year, the HNCMA’s on revegetation works in the upper Bushland Conservation Project will be catchment. A number of projects involving targeting regional biodiversity corridors in direct seeding of trees and shrubs were the Southern Highlands area, in particular postponed in spring. However, those the Bargo to Morton National Park link. landholders who did carry out revegetation In addition to enhancing this regional work had good results after late spring corridor, the project will also contribute to and summer rain. This rain also stimulated strengthening the Great Eastern Ranges natural regeneration and improved corridor. These ranges - extending from vegetation condition at many project sites. northern Queensland to southern Victoria In terms of native vegetation assessment, - have been identified as an important there were a number of challenges during corridor for fauna movement especially the year which impacted on assessment under conditions of climate change. timeframes including: The HNCMA will continue to work with the Department of Environment and The wide range of clearing proposals and Climate Change, Greening Australia, local vegetation types in the catchment led to government and other groups involved in substantial complexity in the evaluation strategic planning to improve these natural and assessment of some proposals. vegetation links. Introduction of new assessment software In the area of native vegetation assessment, towards the end of the year resulted 2008/09 will require further work building in a loss of assessment time due to staff familiarity and competence with new transitional arrangements. assessment software.
31 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
Bushland Conservation Project
The project challenge Where possible, the project targets Achievements for 2007/08 Endangered Ecological Communities The HNCMA’s Bushland Conservation (EECs), priority fauna habitats, regionally • 1,213 hectares under management Project (BCP) is the lead project for significant vegetation communities, agreements, compared with 700 conserving biodiversity on private land regional corridors, over cleared vegetation hecatres the previous year. within the catchment. The project aims types and cleared landscapes. to assist landholders to conserve and • 993 hecatres of native vegetation enhance native vegetation including was protected by 83 kilometres woodlands, forest and native grasslands. New directions in 2007/08 of new fencing compared with Funding is available to landholders in rural 307 hecatres and 66 kilometres the In 2007/08, the HNCMA invested areas of the catchment. previous year. $605, 061 to deliver 72 projects. The project has been funded primarily Landholders contributed another • 65 hectares were revegetated with through the State Sustainability Fund $550,269 to see a total $1.15 million in 17,720 tubestock and 18 kilometres with some recent Australian Government bushland conservation for the year. In was direct seeded contributions. Grants are provided for such comparison 69 projects were delivered for • 120 hecatres was controlled activities as: the same value in the previous year. for weeds.
• Fencing remnants to protect native The project has focused efforts on Staff also inspected 38 project sites where vegetation from livestock improving collation and use of spatial works had been completed. (GIS) mapping information during the • Planting local native trees and year to better record project delivery shrubs to connect or improve and identify priority areas. All projects remnant vegetation. are now recorded in the HNCMA’s Land • Controlling weeds in remnant Management Database (LMD) to ensure vegetation that reliable information on the location and type of work being carried out is available for each project.
MT B1-1 Revegetation to replace clearing 20 hectares MT B1-2 Conservation of indigenous vegetation 1148 hectares MT B2-1 Remnant Buffers 45 hectares
Kurrajong property prior to control of weeds on 4 hectares After weeds such as cat claw creeper, wild tobacco and cape in 2007/08 ivy have been controlled
32 Native Vegetation Management The Project challenge Achievements for 2007/08 • Assessment of 3 PVPs completed, resulting in 1 Development PVP and 1 The HNCMA is the approval authority • 108 enquiries regarding clearing of Continuing Use PVP completed, and 1 under the Native Vegetation Act 2003 native vegetation were received from PVP refused or “red lighted”. (NV Act). The Act requires approval for landholders and agencies. any clearing of native vegetation that is • To achieve the above, staff undertook • 37 of the clearing proposals were not a Routine Agricultural Management 23 initial site inspections of clearing determined to be covered by RAMAs Activity (RAMA) or that is excluded from proposals, and 38 subsequent or excluded from the Act, 1 proposal approvals under the Act. Clearing is assessment inspections. was consistent with the Ministers only approved if it improves or maintains Guidelines for clearing on Vulnerable • Evaluation and assessment of the environmental outcomes. Land, and 6 proposals were outside clearing proposals generated 35 Delivering this project involves: the catchment and referred to the requests for legal, policy and technical appropriate CMA. clarification to the PVP Service Centre. • Liaising with a wide range of landholders and agencies regarding • 11 clearing proposals were • 26 requests for advice and vegetation clearing investigated by analysis of historic recommendations on development aerial photographs to determine if the proposals were received from councils • Evaluating the legislative requirements vegetation proposed for clearing was and the Department of Planning, with of vegetation clearing proposals regrowth not requiring approval to be 22 responses provided. • Assessing clearing proposals that cleared. 6 proposals were confirmed • 11 reports of alledged illegal require approval under the NV Act as being regrowth vegetation. clearing of native vegetation were • Providing advice and • 7 clearing proposals were evaluated referred to DECC for investigation, recommendations to councils and as needing Development Property and staff provided DECC with agencies on vegetation management Vegetation Plans (PVPs) under the background checks on 9 cases of in development proposals and Act, and 1 landholder requested a alledged illegal clearing. strategic planning instruments. Continuing Use PVP for their regrowth clearing proposal. New directions in 2007/08
In 2007/08, there was an increased emphasis on providing input into strategic planning instruments such as Local Environmental Plans (LEP’s) in the catchment. This was in response to the Priority Delivery Plan to implement Priority E4 of the NSW State Plan, as well as the NSW planning reforms requiring councils to prepare new LEP’s.
Catchment Officer, Gillian Young, surverying vegetation for a clearing proposal at Howes Valley in the catchment’s north. Information is collected on species richness, vegetation structure, disturbance and habitat features and soil characteristics
33 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
State Target − E 4.2 Fauna By 2015 there is an increase in the number of sustainable populations of a range of native fauna species.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
The HNCMA, in co-operation with the Department of Environment and Climate Change, is developing its knowledge of populations of native fauna and flora in the catchment.
Challenges in 2007/08 Looking ahead to 2008-09 MT B6-1 Icon Species There is not currently adequate or detailed The HNCMA will implement two Regional By 2016 key species and populations of data available on sustainable native Communication Plans (for the Upper fauna and flora that are locally important populations in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Nepean area and Lithgow region) with a will be identified through sub catchment catchment. To address this requirement key objective of increasing awareness and action plans. of the State Target, the HNCMA works action in the community related to local Target Year 1: mainly on high-quality bushland which icon species. Locally important fauna and flora are connects areas of habitat. The Department identified for one subcatchment of Environment and Climate Change Projects contributing produced in 2007 a report Threatened 07/08 Outcome: to State Target and Pest Animals of Greater Southern As part of developing the HNCMA’s Sydney which covers 800,000 hectares of • Nepean Case Study catchment-wide River Health Strategy the catchment. The report is being used • NRM Communications Project in 2005-06, flagships species for river to develop projects addressing individual reaches across the catchment were threatened species and are highlighted identified. In 2007-08 the HNCMA under State target E4.3. first subcatchment plan, the Upper Nepean Case Study was finalised which also identifies icon species on a subcatchment basis.
The tangled undergrowth of Robertson Rainforest, one of 33 endangered ecological communities in the catchment
34 State Target − E 4.3 Threatened species By 2015 there is an increase in the recovery of threatened species, populations and ecological communities.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
The HNCMA initiated projects to mitigate the threatening processes to ecological communities.
MAT B 3-1 Threatening MAT B3-2 Threatened species processes management action
By 2016 activities classified as By 2016, the conservation of threatened ‘threatening processes’ are identified and species, endangered populations and included in HNCMA management plans Endangered Ecological Communities and agreements with landholders and outside national parks and reserved other partners. lands and protected marine vegetation is supported through implementation of No year one target – actions in Priority Action Statements and All HNCMA and partner projects continue recovery plans. to contribute to this management action. In 2008/09, the HNCMA will be reviewing Target Year 1: its Management Action Targets to ensure Actions identified & ongoing they meet investor priorities and contribute implementation for brush-tailed rock- most effectively to natural resource wallaby, broad headed snake and management outcomes. saltmarsh
07/08 Outcome: Actions were implemented for the three threatened species
Agricultural production, potato farming and dairying, co-existing beside rainforest protection near Roberston in the Southern Highlands
35 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
Projects contributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08 Brush-Tail Rock Wallaby DECC To establish a captive breeding program. 85,000 Hawkesbury-Nepean; Recovery Central West; Hunter Central Rivers and Southern Rivers CMAs Grassy Ecosystems DECC To implement Priority Action Statement 40,000 Hawkesbury-Nepean, Conservation (PAS) for Natural Temperate Grassland of Southern Rivers CMAs Management Network the Southern Tablelands (NSW and ACT) and White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland. Survey for Endangered DECC To survey for southern brown bandicoots 38,000 Ku-ring-gai Southern Brown Bandicoot in suitable habitat to the west of the current known Ku-ring-gai population. Key Threatening Royal Sydney To collate available data on the symptoms 181,000 Across the Process – Phytophthora Botanic Gardens and presence of Phytophthora cinnamomi Hawkesbury-Nepean and undertake further surveys for this pathogen within major conservation areas of native vegetation of the catchment. Ground Parrot and Eastern University of To implement action in the Priority 29,100 Sydney Catchment Bristlebird Recovery Wollongong (partners Action Statements for the Eastern Ground Authority Special DECC and Sydney Parrot and Eastern Bristlebird. Protected Areas Catchment Authority Blue Mountains Threatened DECC (partner To implement Priority Action Statement 22,000 Blue Mountains Species Recovery Blue Mountains (PAS) recovery and threat abatement City Council) actions for five high priority threatened species and Endangered Ecological Communities. Regent Honey Birds Australia To continue to support efforts over the 44,000 Capertee Valley Eater Recovery last 10+ years to revegetate and create in the Capertee Valley habitat for the 66% of honey-eaters that breed in the Capertee Valley. Broad Headed Snake Habitat DECC (partners To develop and trial habitat rehabilitation 178,200 Hawkesbury-Nepean, Management Sydney & Southern and monitor restored sites. Central West; Hunter and Rehabilitation Cross Universities) Central Rivers and Southern Rivers CMAs Green and Golden DECC To target ten key sites for threat 253,000 Hawkesbury-Nepean, Bell Frog Recovery abatement and on ground management Southern Rivers CMAs activities. Grey Headed Flying DPI (DECC partner) To measure and map Grey-headed Flying 436,700 Hills District (Glenorie/ Foxes in Orchards Fox damage to fruit crops over two Kurrajong); Southern seasons and develop a plan to reduce Highlands (Thirlmere/ damage including non-lethal methods. Oakdale /Darkes Forest); Bilpin District Key Threatening Process DECC/Australian To develop a community survey and 25,000 Sydney Basin and the of sites used for Hill Museum run community training to assess Southern Highlands topping Butterflies what hilltops are being used in the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment as important butterfly sites.
36 Challenges in 2007/08 Looking ahead to 2008/09
The challenges to these projects managed The Department of Environment by the HNCMA’s external partners varied. and Climate Change has released a In the case of the Green and Golden Bell Threatened Species Prioritisation and Frog project, challenges involved either Implementation Strategy for the Priority the lack of suitable sites across the study Action Statement (May 2008-August area and/or sites under pressure from 2010). The strategy aims to identify the subsequent development. species, communities, populations and key threats that should receive focused In the Southern Brown Bandicoot project, attention as a priority. despite intensive surveys for this species, very few records of the Bandicoot were The HNCMA will use the strategy and work captured. This was mainly due to the closely with DECC to identify, develop and cryptic behaviour of the species and a implement threatened species projects result of its extremely limited distribution during the 2008-09 period. In particular, and low abundance across the study area. projects conserving and enhancing priority fauna habitats in the Bargo vegetation The Broad-headed Snake Project included corridor will be developed. challenges such as high rainfall affecting site work and the large range of land managers involved. The Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby Project also was challenged by hampering efforts to capture remaining breeding groups; and pre-release training.
37 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
Broad-headed Snake Recovery Project The project challenge New directions in 2007/08 Achievements for 2007/08
The Broad-headed Snake is endemic to This project has strong links with research • 6 artificial rock sites trialled on the Sydney Basin Bioregion where it was institutions, which are leading the way in National Park and crown land with once common along sandstone ridgeline species ecology and habitat restoration further sites proposed in Yengo and habitats within 250 km of Sydney. It research. Wollemi NPs resides in rock crevices and under flat The University of Sydney trialled two • 75 sites have been set up to compare sandstone rocks. different restoration techniques to target the removal of overshadowing Large scale loss of habitat has lead to habitat loss using artificial rock modelled vegetation with naturally shaded and a decline in populations and localised on natural bushrock and made from open sites on Crown land. extinctions. Populations have also been fibre re-enforced concrete to replicate • 49 bushrock removal signs severely depleted and their habitat the thermal and crevice capacities of installed targeting areas prone to destroyed by illegal collecting for the pet natural bushrock, and habitat modification bushrock removal including Blue trade. This project implements the NSW using manual removal of over shadowing Mountains City Council, Hawkesbury Priorities Action Statement for the Broad- vegetation. The UoS is also coordinating City Council, Crown Lands, Nattai Area headed Snake to address these threats the genetics assessment as well as and Sydney Catchment Authority. and promote its recovery. other ecological research crucial to the conservation of the species. • 9 locations had installed gates, In 2007/08, the Hawkesbury-Nepean fences, boulders installed to restrict CMA provided $123,000 for: Southern Cross University continued access into known habitat areas to research into habitat restoration in • On-ground habitat restoration targeting minimise bushrock removal, habitat denuded sites using quarried rock habitat loss (bushrock re-creation); disturbance and illegal collection. and disturbed sites using natural rock habitat disturbance (bushrock replacement. While the School of • 2 workshops with the Bushrock replacement) and habitat modification Biological Sciences at the University Industry and Land Managers as well (removal of overshadowing vegetation) of Sydney lead research and provide as developing a draft education and • Site protection and surveillance assistance in site protection, surveillance communication strategy. targeting illegal collection and and the delivery of key recovery messages. bushrock removal Looking forward to 2008/09 • Education, awareness The project ended in June 2008. However and communication of key the HNCMA’s investment has been used recovery messages as seed funding to attract a major ARC • Research into the species’ Linkage Grant to extend the project over genetic diversity four years.
The beautiful and mildly venomous Broad-headed snake Grooves are created under the artificial rock to provide snake and prey habitat
38 State Target − E 4.4 Invasive species By 2015 there is a reduction in the impact of invasive species.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
Good progress has been made in meeting all annual targets for the control of invasive species.
MAT B4-1 Weed Control MAT B4-3 Threatening processes - Pest animals By 2016, there has been a 5% reduction in coverage of target weeds identified in By 2016, populations of invasive the Hawkesbury-Nepean Weed Strategy pest animal species identified as Key (DPI 2006) through primary weed control Threatening Processes under State measures and effective processes are in threatened species legislation are included place to eradicate new weed outbreaks in TAPs and managed according to those and emerging weed threats. plans.
Target Year 1: Target Year 1: Investment in weed management across Fox TAP implementation supported. the catchment is directed to catchment 07/08 Outcome: weed priorities and in priority catchment landscapes. The Fox TAP was supported at a key site for the threatened brushtail rock wallaby 07/08 Outcome: near Jenolan Caves. The control work All HNCMA investment in weed was so successful that the population management was based on the of wallabies were able to be released priorities identified in the Hawkesbury- successfully from the enclosed area Nepean Weed Strategy and resulted in without predation. 112 hectares of weed control in these priorities areas. For example, all privet MAT B 5-1 Action to reduce was controlled along the Putty River and conditions that favour invasive gleditsia on the Capertee River. species
By 2016, management actions to reduce MAT B4-2 Maintenance of weed the conditions that favour invasive species control have been implemented. By 2016, 50% of areas treated for invasive No short term target - plant control (under projects supported by HNCMA) since 2006/7 report sustained In 2008/09, the HNCMA will be reviewing success. its Management Action Targets to ensure they meet investor priorities and contribute Target Year 1: most effectively to natural resource Appropriate weed management and management outcomes. prevention advice is available to land mangers in target areas for priority weeds
07/08 Outcome: This advice was made available through the HNCMA’s Strategic Weed Management Project. In addition follow-up funding is being provided for maintenance and weed control on sites to ensure weeds can be eradicated in the area over a five-year period.
39 BIODIVERSITY (Continued)
HNCMA projects contributing to targets
• Strategic Weed Control Project
• Local Government Partnership Program
HNCMA partnership projects contributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08 Strategic Fox Control on DECC To carry out fox control on high-priority 370,572 Hawkesbury-Nepean, Privately Managed Lands private lands adjacent to key public land sites Southern Rivers, Hunter-Central Rivers and Northern Rivers CMAs
Prioritise Weed Impacts DECC/DPI To develop a standard state-wide approach 55,000 Hawkesbury-Nepean on Biodiversity within the for achieving the Natural Resource CMA Hawkesbury-Nepean Commission target for weeds threatening Catchment biodiversity in NSW.
Lantana Threat Abatement DECC This project will fund on-ground works at 35,000 Hawkesbury-Nepean Plan Implementation identified priority sites in the catchment CMA idenfified by DECC in its Threat Abatement Plan (TAP) for Lantana camara.
Macquarie Perch DPI A feasibility study to identify rivers or streams 83,490 Hawkesbury-Nepean Habitat Protection that may be suitable for the installation of CMA (Redfin exclusion) redfin exclusion devices to protect Macquarie perch, by preventing the establishment of redfin.
40 Removing privet from the Putty River subcatchment The HNCMA’s Strategic Weed The Challenge The Solution Management Project targets outbreaks In the 1920s privet was established as The HNCMA provided $12,000 funding to of invasive and high impact weeds an ornamental plant near the top of Putty control infestation of privet across 16-20 threatening the edge of high conservation Creek by early settlers. Until the 1970s properties adjoining six kilometres of Putty value bushland such as National Parks. new residents spread privet further along Creek. Projects were generally selected in the creek banks in a mis-guided attempt strategic areas such as at the top of This project aimed to build on the work of to stabilise them. subcatchments where weeds threaten to local landholder, Carol Gibson, who has spread further. Since then privet has spread five been controlling privet on her property and kilometres downstream and 500 her immediate neighbour’s lands with great The project targets infestations that can metres upstream along the creek. The dedication for the past decade. The Three be brought close to eradication within infestation was still quite light and the Valleys Landcare Group and Friends of the five years. In practice this means small riparian bushland was in good condition Colo have also been assisting for the last or light infestations of weeds in areas of indicating that bush regeneration could five years. good condition bushland. In 2007/08, be successful and increase competition the HNCMA invested $175,000 with two against privet re-invasion. The project area councils, two agencies and 34 private Achievements in 2007/08 on Putty Creek sits above large tracts of landholders to rehabilitate 112 hectares Wollemi National Park so it is of very high A bush regeneration contractor was and 20 kilometres of riparian native strategic importance. employed for primary control of the vegetation. infestations downstream from where One very successful landholder project community activity had already taken place was the Putty Creek Privet Removal and to follow up privet regrowth. A total Project, in the far north of the catchment. of 16 landholders had privet controlled by the project with another four controlling it themselves.
In 2008/09, the project will be replicated downstream for the various woody weed threats there including occasional tree of heaven, camphor laurel, willow, blackberry.
Friends of the Colo working with landholder Carol Gibson
41 RIVER HEALTH
Installing water troughs allow riverbanks to be fenced off from cattle such as this 42 example in the Southern Highlands 35.4 KM OF RIVERBANK 112,216 PLANTS ESTABLISHED MANAGED FOR ON RIVERBANKS CONSERVATION target target exceeded exceeded by 187% by 187%
29 KM OF RIVERBANK TWO MANAGEMENT PLANS MANAGED FOR PREPARED ASSISTED target target REGENERATIONexceeded exceeded by 111% by 200%
TWO BARRIERS REMOVED TWO WETLAND MANAGEMENT target PLANS PREPARED target exceeded exceeded by 200% by 200%
43 RIVER HEALTH (continued)
State Target − E4.5 Riverine ecosystems By 2015 there is an improvement in the condition of riverine ecosystems.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08 HNCMA projects contributed to an improvement in the health of streams in the region by exceeding all annual targets, despite adverse climatic conditions occasioned by drought and floods.
MAT RH 1-1 Riparian Conservation By 2016, there is an increase in the length of river and streambanks identified as being in the riparian land management category of focus on conservation being managed primarily Target Year 1: for conservation so that 23% or 150 kilometres of reaches in this category are being 15 kilometres of river/streambank managed with a focus on conservation (RHS). management with a focus on conservation (RHS) TARGET 07/08 Outcome: 35.4 kilometres of river/streambank OUTCOME management with a focus on conservation (RHS) MAT RH 1-2 Riparian vegetation regeneration By 2016 there is an increase in the length of river and streambanks undergoing assisted regeneration in reaches identified as being in the management category of focus on Target Year 1: assisted regeneration so that 18% or 260 kilometres of riverbank in this category has 26 kilometres of river/streambank improved riparian vegetation and streambank condition. managed with a focus on assisted TARGET regeneration 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 29 kilometres of river/streambank managed with a focus on assisted regeneration MAT RH 1-3 Riparian revegetation By 2016, 600,000 plants established through revegetation on stream/river banks and restoration of 20% or 140 kilometres of reaches that have an identified management Target Year 1: focus on revegetation. 60,000 plants established through TARGET revegetation on stream/riverbanks 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 112,216 plants established through revegetation on stream/riverbanks MAT RH 1-4 Best practice for public river access recreation areas By 2016, 10 exisiting public passive recreation river access areas are managed under an endorsed management plan using current recommended/best practice riparian lands Target Year 1: management principles with associated strategies for implementation. One management plan prepared TARGET 07/08 Outcome: Two management plans have been OUTCOME prepared and are being implemented at Crosslands Reserve (Hornsby LGA) and Yarramundi Reserve (Hawkesbury LGA) MAT RH 2-1 Restoration of instream habitat By 2016 there is an increase in the length of instream habitat that is improved by appropriate instream works such as reinstatement of large woody debris and removal of barriers to fish Target Year 1: passage in priority reaches. No barriers removed (Year 3 = 5 barriers TARGET removed) 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME Two barriers removed
44 HNCMA projects contributing to targets The River Restoration Project • River Restoration Project The Project Challenge New directions in 2007/08
• Saltmarsh Restoration Project The River Restoration Project aims to In 2007/08 the project focused on priority • Local Government Partnership protect and restore creek and river river reaches identified in the HNCMA’s Program systems across the Hawkesbury-Nepean River Health Strategy as well as promoting catchment. This includes protecting river connectivity and linking of past projects. biodiversity through activities such as The subcatchments with the most activity Challenges during 2007/08 weed control, fencing to reduce impact and focus included the Macdonald River, Continued drought conditions throughout of livestock, providing alternate watering Mangrove Creek, Wollemi Creek, Colo 2007/08 impacted on landholders’ ability systems and minor stream bed and bank River, Myrtle Creek, Upper Wollondilly to complete revegetation activities. In June erosion stabilisation works. River, River Lett and the Tuglow River. 2007 one of the largest floods in a number Technical assistance is provided by During the year, the HNCMA invested of years occurred in the lower catchment HNCMA staff to landholders to develop $1,768,310 to deliver 131 river particularly affecting the Macdonald plans of management for each project restoration projects. Landholders River, Colo River, and Mangrove Creek site which are informed by the HNCMA’s contributed an additional $1.1 million in subcatchments. In 2007/08, the works River Health Strategy. Once plans have cash and in-kind contributions to see a undertaken by landowners in these areas been approved, landholders enter into total of $2.8 million invested in river generally stood up well to the floods and Management Agreements for a period of rehabilitation. the rivers have shown promising signs of up to 10 years. recovery assisted by the flood. Achievements for 2007/08 • 131 individual projects funded to Looking ahead to 2008/09 rehabilitate over 113 kilometres of riverbank with a total area of 447 Project implementation for 2008/09 will hectares continue to target priority reaches as identified by the HNCMA’s River Health • 33 kilometres of fencing was Strategy and promote vegetation links and undertaken to protect river and creek connectivity of projects. In 2008/09, the banks and a total of 66 off-river stock HNCMA plans to invest $1.25 million in the watering points were installed River Restoration Project. • 40 kilometres of river and creek banks were revegetated with 50,000 plants.
MAT Management Action Contribution of Target 07/08 activity towards target
RH1-1 Riverbank undergoing conservation 28 kilometres (or 212 hectares) management
RH1-2 Riverbank undergoing assisted 55 kilometres (or 244 hectares) regeneration
RH1-3 Plants established on stream and 50,000 plants riverbanks 30 kilometres (or 142 hectares)
B4-1 Control of priority weeds in priority 378 hectares areas
SL1-1 Area protected from soil erosion 2.25 hectares
Fenced off riverbank on the Macdonald River
45 RIVER HEALTH (continued)
State Targets − 4.6 State Targets - 4.7 Marine Groundwater waters By 2015 there is an improvement in the By 2015 there is no decline in the ability of groundwater systems to support condition of marine waters and groundwater dependent ecosystems and ecosystems. designated beneficial uses. Note: The HNCMA has a very small area Note: The HNCMA’s work to protect of coastline and marine waters in its and restore groundwater dependent catchment. It includes fifteen kilometres ecosystems is addressed through its of coast north of Turimetta Headland and Wetland Management Program which is the marine area to three nautical miles. reported on State Target E4.8 The HNCMA does not have a dedicated program for marine waters, but works closely with the two neighbouring CMAs (Sydney Metro and Hunters-Central Rivers) to ensure their marine and coastal programs contribute to this outcomes in these marine waters.
State Target − E 4.8 Wetlands By 2015 there is an improvement in the condition of important wetlands, and the extent of those wetlands is maintained.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
The ecological health of regional wetlands were improved during the year and plans were developed for investment in priority wetlands next year.
MAT RH3-1 Important wetlands
By 2016, there is an increase in the area of important wetlands with recovery potential that are protected and/or appropriately managed through arrangements that prevent damaging access or disturbance. Target Year 1: One priority wetland plan developed TARGET 07/08 Outcome: Two priority wetland plans were developed OUTCOME for Paddys River Wetland and Lake Bathurst/The Morass
HNCMA projects contributing Challenges in 2007/08 Looking forward to 2007/08 to targets When the program started in 2006, The focus in 2008/09 will be to build • Wetlands Management Program the catchment was in severe drought upon the Wetland Management Plans and most wetlands were very dry. developed for Lake Bathurst/The • Estuary, Coast & Marine Program However, during late 2007 and early 2008, Morass and the Paddy’s River Wetlands. • River Restoration Project significant rainfall events across Recommendations made in these the catchment ensured that many management plans will be implemented on • Saltmarsh Restoration Project wetlands became so full that agreed a property-by-property basis to improve fencing works were delayed because the condition of these important wetlands. access was virtually impossible. In 2008/09, $313,287 will be invested in the Wetland Management Program.
46 Wetland Management Program The Project Challenge River Health Strategy. Once plans have property plans were also developed been approved, landholders enter into and the recommendations for works will The project aims to improve condition Management Agreements for a period of provide the basis for ongoing investment and extent of important wetlands across up to 10 years. in these areas. the catchment on both private and public property by undertaking projects that In early 2008, the Blue Mountains mitigate negative impacts according to New directions in 2007/08 Hanging Swamps project, which best management practice. commenced in 2006, was completed. A total of $475,553 was invested through This project involved over $170,000 being Priority for funding through the Wetland the Wetland Management Program with invested in research, trials of remediation Management Program was given to another $350,000 in contributions from techniques and community involvement Wetlands of National Importance (DIWA), landholders, councils and government over two years. Endangered Ecological Communities, agencies. This saw a total of $825,553 known threatened species habitat and invested in wetland restoration during In 2007/08, works to improve fish passage SREP20 Wetlands (Sydney Region the year and the program met budget and weir alterations at Longneck Lagoon Environmental Plan 20 – Hawkesbury and exceeded targets. were undertaken by the Department of Nepean River). Environment and Climate Change with HNCMA funding. A scoping study was The River Restoration Project aims to Achievements for 2007/08 also completed to examine the potential protect and restore creek and river Wetland Partnerships to improve bird habitat by modifying the systems across the Hawkesbury-Nepean height and profile of the islands within Pitt catchment. This includes protecting river The seven wetlands within the Town Lagoon. biodiversity through activities such as Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment identified weed control, fencing to reduce impact on the Directory of Important Wetlands in Wetlands Incentive on private property of livestock, providing alternate watering Australia (DIWA) are a priority for funding • 21 incentive agreements were systems and minor stream bed and bank through the program. developed and funded. erosion stabilisation works. In October 2007, consultants were • 15 kilometres of fencing was Technical assistance is provided by appointed to complete background papers erected to protect 58 hectares HNCMA staff to landholders to develop and Management Plans for two of these of wetlands and 3 alternative stock plans of management for each project wetlands, Lake Bathurst/The Morass and watering points were installed. site which are informed by the HNCMA’s the Paddy’s River wetlands. Individual
MAT Management Action Target Description Contribution of 07/08 activity towards target
RH 3-1 Protection of Important Wetlands 58 hectares protected plus 45 hectares enhanced or rehabilitated
Wetland on Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Soft engineering solution in the Blue Mountains allows organic material Institute, Camden, now protected by fencing to settle and the channel to reform
47 RIVER HEALTH (continued)
State Target − E 4.9 - Estuaries and coastal lake ecosystems By 2015 there is an improvement in the condition of estuaries and coastal lake ecosystems.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
The HNCMA and its partners initiated projects to build resilience into coastal and estuarine environments in order to cope with the effects of Climate Change and urban development.
HNCMA projects contributing Looking forward to 2008/09 MAT RH 5-1 Estuary Coastal and to targets marine management plans In the face of climate change, coastal • Estuary, Coast & Marine Program and estuarine environments are expected Implement or assist with implementation to come under increasing pressure from of relevant, high priority actions that are • Local Government Partnership rising sea levels and increased tidal and identified in estuary management plans Program storm surges. or other management plans that have been cooperatively developed through a In 2008/09, building resilience in coastal Challenges in 2007/08 formalised process with all stakeholders. and estuarine habitats will continue to be Investigation of innovative management a major focus of the HNCMA’s Estuary, Target Year 1: techniques for reducing the barriers to Coast & Marine Program. Increased Actions in complete estuary management tidal inundation of saltmarsh and the ability resilience is considered to provide these plans (EMPs) are prioritised of rock walls to provide habitat indicated habitats with a greater capacity to adapt 07/08 Outcomes: the technologies were not appropriate. in the face of climate change. Importantly, This involved considerable staff time in the these habitats also provide protection Hornsby Council is developing the Lower estuary project and reflects that estuary against the impacts of storms and tidal Hawkesbury Estuary Management Plan management often involves testing new surges on coastal environments and can and work to date will include priority techniques and approaches. reduce the extent of coastal erosion. actions for issues including seagrass, saltmarsh and derelict boat removal. The HNCMA will continue to support and These actions will be progressed by the encourage the development of Estuary HNCMA in 2008/09. Management Plans.
48 HNCMA Partnership Projects contributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08
Dangar Island Hornsby Council, Awareness and protection of a large bed $50,000 with Dangar Island Seagrass Protection NSW Maritime, of seagrass to the south of Dangar Island $42,000 inkind Project Gosford Council
Bitou TAP Pittwater Council Management of infestations of $50,000 and Coastal dunes of the implementation Chrysanthemoides monilifera on coastal $60,000 inkind Hawkesbury Nepean plant communities in the Hawkesbury Nepean catchment at 4 priority sites identified in the Bitou TAP.
Saltmarsh DECC, Gosford Saltmarsh assessment, consolidated $42,000 Key sites throughout Council, Hornsby mapping and raising community and the estuary with $45,000 Council landholder awareness through community inkind field days and training.
Twin Beaches DECC, Broken Bay Improve water quality surrounding the `Twin $22,000 with Lower Berowra Creek Oyster Association, Beaches’ which are immediately upstream $37,000 inkind NSW DPI, Hornsby of 3 priority oyster aquaculture harvest Council, NSW Food areas identified in the NSW Oyster Industry Authority Sustainable Aquaculture Strategy.
Community Coastal Environment To build capacity through education and $5,500 and Dangar Island and Seagrass Network, HCRCMA training in monitoring aquatic habitats and $8,800 inkind Lower Hawkesbury Monitoring seagrass. River
Tide To Table Oceanwatch NSW Assist farmers and other land managers $187,000 with Various estuary DPI Fisheries NSW to reach a greater practical understanding $326,000 locations Farmers, NSW Food of the link between their management and inkind Authority, NSW seafood industries. Seafood Industry Council, NSW commercial fishing & oyster industries
Mangrove Mountain NSW DPI, NSW Increasing the uptake of sustainable $230,450 Central Coast Plateau Sustainable Farmers Association agricultural production methods, in with matching Horticulture soil, water, nutrient, weed and pest inkind management.
Estuary Clean Up Oyster Industry, Prevent nutrients entering the estuary $4,000 Brooklyn and Project: Derolict NPWS immediately upstream of a priority oyster surrounds Boat Removal harvest area.
Waterwatch Coastal Environment Education and training in monitoring $9,000 and Gosford LGA Extension Network, HCRCMA water quality. $6,000 inkind
Mona Vale Dune Soil Conservation Assessment and mapping of Hawkesbury $33,000 and Barrenjoey Dunes, Restoration Project Service, Pittwater Nepean dunes including education and $38,000 inkind Warriewood Beach/ Council, onground works Cliff, Mona Vale Avalon Dunes, South Dunecare Group Bilgola headland.
49 RIVER HEALTH (continued)
Estuary, Coast & Marine Program The project challenge outcomes and strengthens the estuary the installation of Seagrass Friendly program’s value. Moorings within several species The HNCMA’s Estuary, Coast & Marine of seagrass. (ECM) Program aims to protect and • Provided input into Hornsby restore the natural values of the Council’s Lower Hawkesbury Estuary • The coastal component in the program Hawkesbury River’s estuary and marine Management Plan. A $250,000 was expanded to include a Mona Vale area east of Broken Bay to three nautical NHT allocation has been secured to Dune Restoration Project and to assist miles. The Hawkesbury River estuary is the assist councils to implement estuary Pittwater Council to implement the largest in New South Wales and includes management plans. bitou bush threat abatement plan at a diverse range of landscapes and issues. four priority sites. • Established community involvement In response the program takes a place in new areas and new landcare • Supported the extension of management approach for the delivery of groups. Still Creek Catchment Waterwatch and the Community projects. Landcare Group, in the headwaters Seagrass Monitoring projects run of Berowra Creek, formed after a field through the Coastal Environment New directions in 2007/08 day run by HNCMA and Hornsby Network into catchment in response Council. They have a strong base and to communities living on or around The Estuary, Coast & Marine Program several projects under development. the estuary wanting to focus on ‘wet’ comprises partnership projects with local Somersby Landcare is a new group landcare. These projects educate and state governments and with industry. with a long term commitment to volunteers about aquatic habitats In 2007/08, the program: Landcare on the Central Coast and water quality better and train Plateau. They have a $30,000 them to undertake monitoring in their • Developed innovative projects with threatened species project underway. local area. expert scientific advice. Wetland ecologist Geoff Sainty, was engaged to • Responding to a NSW DPI Feasibility determine the benefits of a proposed Assessment recommendation, a Achievements for 2007/08 project to reinstate tidal influence to project was developed with Pittwater In 2007/08, $665,000 was invested an area of saltmarsh intersected by Council, NSW DPI and Maritime by the HNCMA in estuary management. Singleton Road. The subsequent to trial the installation of Seagrass Landholders, community, industry, local report indicated that funds would Friendly Moorings. The trial will include and state governments contributed an be more effective elsewhere. This a three year monitoring program to additional $520,000 to see a total of approach avoids second guessing record seagrass recovery following $1.1 million invested in on-ground works in the estuary.
MAT Management Action Target Contribution of 07/08 Description activity towards target
RH 3-1 Important wetlands 16 hectares saltmarsh and 12 hectares seagrass protected
B3-1 Threatening processes management 18 hectares of coastal vegetation controlled for Bitou Bush
B4-1 Weed control 25 hectares of weed control
B3-2 Threatened species action 31 hectares managed for protection of endangered ecological communities
Assisted with implementation of 8 Priority Action Statements in Littoral Rainforest, Themeda grasslands and Coastal saltmarsh endangered ecological communities
C-1 Social connectivity 130 community members participating in community NRM events organised by HNCMA
16 Landcare and Community Groups supported including new groups Still Creek Catchment Landcare Group and Somersby Landcare Group.
8 community projects assisted
50 51 SOIL AND LAND
Capertee landholder Jim Dunne on a severely eroded hillside which was rehabilitated 52 during the year by the HNCMA 2210.63 HECTARES PROTECTED FROM SOIL EROSION target exceeded by 110% 3777 HECTARES OF LAND MANAGED ACCORDING TO LAND CAPABILITY target
16.8 HECTARES OF SALINE exceeded DISCHARGE SITES by 188% FENCED target exceeded by 112%
169 LANDHOLDER OF LARGE PROPERTIES TRAINED IN FARM MANAGEMENTtarget exceeded by 112%
53 SOIL AND LAND (continued)
State Target − E 4.10 Soil condition By 2015 there is an improvement in soil condition.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
Substantial investment was made into improvements in the control of soil condition and erosion through education and the rehabilitation of wetlands and riparian vegetation, and protection of gullies and streams. In addition, new methods of soil treatment were developed for use in the face of drier catchments and uncertain climatic conditions.
MAT SL 1-1 Soil Erosion
By 2016, 20 000 hectares of the catchment will be protected from soil erosion as a result of repairing the catchment by soil conservation works such as fencing, gully control structures, Target Year 1: revegetation and other treatment. 2000 hectares of the catchment protected from soil erosion TARGET 07/08 Outcome: 2210 hectares of the catchment protected OUTCOME from soil erosion
MAT SL 1-2 Dryland salinity Target Year 1: By 2016, 200 hectares of saline discharge sites have been treated and/or fenced. 15 hectares of saline discharge sites have By 2009, recharge sites in priority sub catchments have been identified and by 2016, been fenced, 240 hectares of discharge 2400 ha of recharge areas have been treated. sites have been treated through sowing of perennial pasture or direct seeded as TARGET shelter belts. 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 16.8 hectares of saline discharge sites have been fenced
MAT SL 1-3 Acid Soils HNCMA projects contributing Looking forward to 2008/09 to targets By 2016, there is a reduction in the rate of The HNCMA’s Catchment Protection induced soil acidification in non-acidic soils • Catchment Protection Scheme Scheme will continue to target 12 priority due to agricultural practices. subcatchments in the Warragamba • Landcare Support Catchment investing a total $1.5 million in Target Year 1: 2008/09. The Junction Creek and Lower Brochure on soil acidification awareness Challenges in 2007/08 Mulwarree subatchments will be the focus distributed to 1000 landholders of some major works on neighbouring Continued drought conditions throughout properties. Works will protect severe 07/08 Outcomes: 2007/08 in the upper catchment affected gully erosion on rare and intact river styles Publication “Best Practice Management revegetation. The Scheme has been such as valley fills and chain-of-ponds for Sustainable Grazing” was developed adapting to this challenge by ensuring river systems. with a section on soil acidification and good ground preparation, such as ripping distributed to over 1000 landholders. and spraying, is an integral part of every project. The HNCMA has provided extra funds in the revegetation budget for MAT SL 1-4 Acid Sulphate Soils watering and replacement trees. In autumn By 2016, there is no increase in the area 2008, a revegetation trial was established affected by acid sulphate soils. to test a new type of soil conditioner and the effectiveness of weed control mats. No short term target: In 2008/09, the HNCMA will be reviewing its Management Action Targets to ensure they meet investor priorities and contribute most effectively to natural resource management outcomes.
54 Catchment Protection Scheme The project challenge New directions in 2007/08 Achievements for 2007/08
The Catchment Protection Scheme is a In 2007/08, the Catchment Protection • 40 hectares of terrestrial gazetted Soil Conservation Project under Scheme invested $2.248 million in vegetation protected and Section 10 of the Soil Conservation Act 19 new erosion control projects enhanced, 1 hectare of wetland, and 1938. The Scheme aims to repair severe across the Warragamba Catchment. The 121 hectares of riparian vegetation. gully, stream bed and bank erosion across subcatchments of Big Hill, Dixon Creek This activity included the planting of the Warragamba Catchment to improve and Lower Mulwaree were the focus of 15,850 tubestock along degraded and protect water supplies for Sydney and several major projects aimed at reducing gullys, creeks and streams the Blue Mountains. sediment movement downstream and • 6.52 hectares of willows controlled The Scheme is a partnership between the improving water quality. The investment along riverbanks HNCMA, Sydney Catchment Authority, was down slightly on the $2.55 million • 30 kilometres of fencing was Australian Government, Department invested in the 2006/07 financial year. constructed to protect 257 hectares of Lands and landholders. Catchment of sensitive eroding gullies or streams. Protection Scheme projects are planned, 13 alternate water systems were designed and implemented by HNCMA established for stock watering staff in conjunction with landholders. This ensures that quality control is maintained • 28 kilometres of stream bed and through project development and banks protected and 7.5 hectares of implementation. land was also treated with a recycled organic mulch to help promote The soil and water conservation works revegetation of sensitive soils. carried out under the scheme are technical and complex in nature requiring detailed engineering and hydrological design to address contemporary landscape and climatic conditions. Agreements are planned, designed and negotiated with landholders that detail the design specifications and overall plan of the remediation works.
Gully erosion on a Goulburn property prior to works Gully after construction of a concrete flume to direct and manage flows
55 SOIL AND LAND (continued)
Catchment Protection Scheme Contributions made to the CPS for 2007/2008
Sydney Catchment Authority $434, 000
Australian Government $893, 000
HNCMA $350, 000
Department of Lands – Section 10 funds $171, 500
Landholder $400, 000
MAT Management Action Target Contribution of 07/08 Description activity towards target
SL1-1 Land protected from soil erosion 1255 hectares
SL1-2 Saline discharge sites treated 6.5 hectares
SL2-1 Agricultural land managed 1255 hectares to it capability
RH1-1 Riverbanks managed 3 kilometres (or 14 hectares) for conservation
RH1-2 Riverbanks managed for assisted 3 kilometres (or 11 hectares) regeneration
RH1-3 Plants established on rivers 15, 850 plants and creekbanks 23 kilometres (or 97 hectares)
B4-1 Priorities areas and weed controlled 6.9 hectares
MT B1-1 Native vegetation established 13 hectares
MT B1-2 Native vegetation conserved 26 hectares
56 State Target − E 4.11 Land capability By 2015 there is an increase in the area of land that is managed within its capability.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
Targets were exceeded in arranging for land to be managed according to its capability, and farm management support programs were implemented in co-operation with our partners and landholders.
MAT SL 2-1 Management according to land capability
By 2016, an additional 20 000 hectares of targeted areas of agricultural land throughout the catchment is managed according to its rural land capability. Target Year 1: 2000 hectares of agricultural land TARGET managed according to land capability 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 3777 hectares of agricultural land managed according to land capability MAT SL 2-2 Large/commercial farm management
By 2016, there is an increase in the number of properties being managed through Target Year 1: a whole-farm management system. At least 1000 managers of larger landholdings (over 100 hectares) or small holdings that are in intensive agricultural use attend and/ 150 landholders attending farm or complete courses that contribute to holistic management and involve a substantial management courses such as Landscan commitment (e.g. over 20 hours of course time). or Prograze courses 07/08 Outcome: TARGET 169 landholders attending farm management courses such as Landscan or Prograze courses
MAT SL 2-3 Small/non-commercial farm management Target Year 1:
By 2016, there is an increase in the number of rural residential and smaller area landholders 100 landholders attended training on (less than 100 hectares) with at least 1000 landholders attending management training for application management of small rural rural residential block and small farm management landholdings including application of Current Recommended Practices TARGET 07/08 Outcome: 107 landholders attended training on OUTCOME application management of small rural landholdings including application of Current Recommended Practices
57 SOIL AND LAND (continued)
HNCMA partnership projects contributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08
Implementing Best DPI To deliver training to landholder groups $222, 770 All areas of the catchment Management Practices via promotion of BMPs and workshops in (BMP) for Sustainable Prograze, LANDSCAN, plant recognition Grazing Management and farm planning. Landholders – Stage 2 demonstrating a capacity to develop sustainable practices then qualify for incentives to implement on-ground to improve sustainable land management.
Sustainable Agriculture DPI To assist farmers in implementing more $209,500 Central Coast plateau for Mangrove Mountain sustainable farming practices.
Drought Management DPI To increased farmers’ capacity to manage $200,000 Project was mainly for Ecosystem drought and protect their farm ecosystems delivered in the upper Protection within the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment. catchment through the It includes training and incentives for Goulburn DPI office. farmers to implement best management strategies for their livestock during drought.
On-farm Water DPI To improve irrigation practices on $220,000 Whole of catchment, with Use Efficiency farms through funding farmers who main landholder interest had developed Irrigation and Drainage coming from the lower Management Plans (IDMPs) or had catchment completed Irrigation Management Courses (IIMC).
58 Improving land capability with integrated project funding Landholder Danny Cummins runs 4000 This funding helped him erect To date, the one large paddock Mr sheep and 130 cattle on his 680-hecatre 2.6 kilometres of fencing, install Cummins operated is now split into six property “Marandoo” near Taralga. The alternate watering points, hay and more manageable paddocks. Cattle are property has been in the family since sheep feeders so he was able to cope kept out of steep areas and creeks and 1945 and ever since then included one better with the drought and improve kept on the land more suited to grazing. large 200 hectare back paddock where his stock management. In mid 2008 Mr Cummins took up his stock wandered through creeklines, In 2008 Cummins commenced his fourth project with the CMA’s Bushland remnant bushland and through steep largest project yet with the HNCMA’s Conservation team to protect an area inacessible country. River Restoration Project to fence off and adjacent to the creek with 16.4 hectares Over the past year, Mr Cummins has protect 71 hectares of native vegetation of Western Tablelands Dry Forest and been working with the HNCMA and the along 2.4 kilometres of Turallo Creek, a Tableland Hills Grassy Woodland. Department of Primary Industries (DPI) to tributary of the Tarlo River. Now he will be able to keep the stock out get help improving his stock management The project also involves controlling of the bushland. Mr Cummins says the and lift his production yields. blackberries and hawthorn, and provides series of four integrated funding projects The also offered the opportunity to alternate watering points, tanks and minor on his property make good sense and help Mr Cummins to manage his land crossing repairs. complement each other. within its capability and to protect “There is some steep country here that I “This is such common sense. If can get biodiversity values. wanted to keep the cattle out of. When what I want out of a project – better stock “I was interested in rotational grazing cattle got into the creek during the management – while the HNCMA can and breaking the paddock into more drought, they made a mess. The fencing satisfy their environmental objectives, manageable areas. You will get better will keep them out, but allow me to crash I would be mad not to take advantage productivity if you can control your grazing graze during the winter months for a short of the help that is on offer,” said more efficiently,” said Mr Cummins time,” said Mr Cummins. Mr Cummins.
Initially Mr Cummins first became involved “I’ve lost nothing but have gained fencing with two HNCMA funded projects run that helps me muster and manage my by the DPI − Sustainable Grazing and stock more easily.” Drought Management − to extend his water supply and begin to fence off sections of the large paddock.
Landholder Danny Cummins and the HNCMA’s Joanna Willmott with the protected creek line and bushland in the background
59 COMMUNITY AND PARTNERSHIPS
Members of the Mt Gibraltor Landcare Group take a break after working to remove tonnes 60 of English Ivy from the undergrowth 120 LANDCARE GROUPS SUPPORTED target exceeded by 150%
5 INDIGENOUS TRAINING PROGRAMS SUPPORTED target exceeded by 166%
61 COMMUNITY AND PARTNERSHIPS (continued)
State Target − E 4.12 NRM decisions Natural resource decisions contribute to improving or maintaining economic sustainability and social well being.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
There has been an improvement in the understanding of natural resource processes throughout the nation due to the drought and global warming. The HNCMA has formed strong partnerships with its communities and that has led to improved knowledge of issues affecting the sustainability of the catchment.
MAT C1-1 Social connectivity
By 2016, people are encouraged and supported in understanding their rights and responsibilities in relation to their place in the catchment. Short term Target: TARGET 80 landcare groups were supported
07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME 120 landcare groups were supported, with particular growth in landcare participation in the estuary and Macarthur areas of the catchment where dedicated HNCMA HNCMA projects contributing Looking Forward to 2008/09 Community Support Officers now support to the targets The HNCMA’s Landcare Community these areas. • Landcare Support Program will continue to support the activities of the landcare community • NRM Communications Project in the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment • GIS Support Project and will target this support in an increasingly strategic manner. A Community Engagement Strategy Challenges in 2007/08 was developed during the year and an Periods of both extremely dry conditions Action Plan for this strategy focuses and, in some areas, very wet periods on improving how and where HNCMA have hindered revegetation projects. engages with the community. However, most landcarers have continued For example, there will be increasing to undertake their activities effectively. The involvement with community nurseries Equine Influenza outbreak also restricted around the catchment, in particular with activities of some landcarers and reduced new nurseries at Goulburn and in Moss the availability of some Department Vale. Continued support will be provided of Primary Industries and Rural Land to Lithgow Community Nursery which Protection Board staff support, produces over 50,000 native plants particularly for a number of pest animal per year. control activities. The HNCMA will also continue to increase involvement in the Cumberland (South Western Sydney) and Hawkesbury estuary areas of the catchment – in response to these peri-urban areas having a steady increase in community groups being formed to tackle local environmental issues.
62 HNCMA Landcare / Community Support The Challenge Over 40 nominations were received across • Over 3000 Landcare members eight categories. Five of the catchment The steady rise in the number of • $2 million of work carried out winners were selected as state finalists environmental volunteer groups in the by volunteers (over 68,000 leading to the Gandangarra Aboriginal catchment over the past few years has volunteer hours) Landcare Group and Friends of Avalon resulted in the HNCMA supporting over Dunes winning the Indigenous Group and • $1 million in additional funding gained 120 landcare and other environmental Coastcare categories respectively at the for landcare activities in the catchment ‘care’ groups across the catchment. NSW Landcare Awards held at Tamworth • Publication of a major report “Healing In 2007/08, the HNCMA invested over in September. our Catchment – a Report on $660,000 in supporting these groups The regional awards were presented Landcare in the Hawkesbury-Nepean” through seven Landcare Community at the inaugural Hawkesbury-Nepean Support Officers working closely with • Implementation commenced Landcare Forum in November 2007. a wide range of individuals, community of the “Local Provenance Plant Over 100 Landcarers from across the groups and environmental networks. & Seed Strategy – Hawkesbury- catchment gathered to acknowledge Across the catchment, Landcare groups Nepean Catchment” the Landcare Award winners and share generated another $3 million in additional information and experiences. • Continued support of community funding and volunteer work in the nurseries in the catchment including catchment during the year. $20,000 to assist the Lithgow Achievements for 2007/08 nursery and production of 17,000 New directions in 2007/08 There has been a steady increase in local provenance plants for landcare community involvement in landcare projects in the Lithgow region. Following a survey of 125 groups/ particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. representatives conducted in 2006, • Held 36 significant events and Key achievements include: keys areas were identified where HNCMA field days attracting approximately assistance could make a difference to • 120 Landcare and environmental 850 participants community efforts in natural resource groups supported management. A key recommendation • 68 groups covered by HNCMA was the need to strengthen existing insurance partnerships with community nurseries in the catchment and to establish new community nurseries in a couple of key locations.
In 2007/08, the HNCMA responded by providing financial assistance, technical advice and by playing a coordinating role in Lithgow, Picton, Moss Vale and Goulburn.
The HNCMA also began to implement the “Local Provenance Plant & Seed Strategy for the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment” in 2007/08. The strategy gives direction on making available local provenance plant material for revegetation projects across the catchment. To support this, new seedbanks were established at Moss Vale and Goulburn.
Other community issues such as recognition for work done, volunteer burn out and networking were identified in the 2006 research. In response the HNCMA undertook the inaugural catchment wide Razorback Landcare Group with project plantings on the Razorback Range Landcare Awards and then Landcare between Camden and Picton Forum in November 2007.
63 COMMUNITY AND PARTNERSHIPS (continued)
State Target − E4.13 Community capacity building There is an increase in the capacity of natural resource managers to contribute to regionally relevant natural resource management.
HNCMA ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/08
Incentive targets have been met. A total of five incentive programs were delivered by the HNCMA, along with additional HNCMA-funded projects led by Department of Primary Industry and Department of Environment and Climate Change, which also delivered incentives to landholders.
MAT C1-2 Incentives MAT C1-3 Education and training
By 2007, appropriate incentive programs Appropriate education and training are in place to support achievement of opportunities are fostered, brokered the targets, and by 2011, these incentive and developed to support achievement programs have been evaluated and of the targets reviewed to improve their ability to meet Targets Year 1: the targets, and appropriate partnerships are in place to support achievement of the Appropriate education and training targets in the CAP opportunities are fostered, brokered and developed to support achievement Target Year 1: of the targets Appropriate incentive progress in place to support achievement of the targets 2007/08 Outcomes: XXX (figure to come) training days and field 07/08 Outcomes: days were supplied during the year and A total of five incentive programs were targets have been met. delivered by the HNCMA in 2007/08 along with additional HNCMA-funded projects led by DPI and DECC which also other incentives to landholders incentive targets
MAT C1-4 Indigenous land management
By 2016, aspects of the landscape related to NRM that have Indigenous cultural significance will be identified in accordance with cultural protocol. As culturally significant sites, places, landscapes and species significant to Aboriginal people are identified, they will be protected, Target Year 1: enhanced and rehabilitated Three programs that train Indigenous people in aspects of land management TARGET are underway 07/08 Outcome: OUTCOME Five training programs were run during the year involving the land councils of Bathurst, Goulburn, Pejar, Metropolitan, Gandangarra and at Katoomba to see Indigenous people graduate with qualifications in land management.
64 MAT C1-5 MAT C1-6 Communication MAT C1-7 Subcatchment plans Monitoring and evaluation By 2009, the HNCMA has prepared and By 2016, subcatchment plans are By 2010, a comprehensive reporting, is actively implementing a communication developed and are being progressively monitoring and evaluation framework has strategy which ensures effective implemented for nine priority been developed, implemented communication with and feedback from subcatchments and reviewed the catchment’s diverse community to Targets Year 1: support achievement of the CAP targets. Targets Year 1: One subcatchment plan developed Develop a reporting monitoring and Target Year 1: evaluation strategy Develop a communication strategy 2007/08 Outcomes: A subcatchment plan – the Upper Nepean 2007/08 Outcomes: 07/08 Outcomes: Case Study – was completed in 2007/08. The HNCMA MERI Framework was The HNCMA Communications Strategy developed in 2008. was revised in 2007 to better target and localise communication initiatives. A comprehensive Action Plan was implemented in 2007/08.
HNCMA projects contributing to targets
• Landcare Support
• NRM Communications Project
• Monitoring and Evaluation Project
• GIS Support Project
HNCMA partnership projects contributing to targets
Project Partner Aim Funding Location in 07/08
Indigenous Community Blue Mountains To teach bush regeneration skills to 52,509 Blue Mountains Capacity Building- Aboriginal Aboriginal community members with Blue Mountains Cultural Centre practical work on four local sites
65 COMMUNITY AND PARTNERSHIPS (continued)
Collaboration with the Blue Mountains World Heritage Institute THE PROJECT CHALLENGE ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2007/08 The collaboration between HNCMA and the BMWHI has also provided benefits The Blue Mountains World Heritage Two key initiatives of the BMWHI involving for other catchment stakeholders. Dr Institute (BMWHI) was established in 2004 the HNCMA are: Daniel Ramp from the University of New as a not-for-profit organisation focusing • A collaborative research project funded South Wales, leader for the “Managing on policy and management issues in the by the Australian Research Council, ecosystem change” project has presented World Heritage Area and its surrounds. “Managing ecosystem change in to, and participated in, HNCMA facilitated The founding partners of the Institute are the Greater Blue Mountains World workshops on climate change for local • University of NSW Heritage Area”, is researching the government and other NRM managers. influence of climate change on key Updates on this research will be provided • Sydney University threats to the World Heritage Area to guide future management of biodiversity • Wollongong University including fire, feral animals and pest and threatening processes across a range plants. This research will be used to of land tenures. • University of Western Sydney develop an adaptive management • Australian Museum framework to reduce future risks to the LOOKING FORWARD TO 2008/09 World Heritage Area. • Botanic Gardens Trust The HNCMA and BMWHI is looking at • An application to the Rural Industries • Sydney Catchment Authority the need for an adaptive management Research and Development framework, based on the climate impact • Blue Mountains City Council Corporation to develop a native research, to address management of agriforestry project on the central threats both within and outside the World tablelands. This would be targeted to NEW DIRECTIONS IN 2007/08 Heritage Area. This will assist the HNCMA marginal lands providing landholders when designing and delivering projects to In recognition of the contribution of the with a means to produce income minimise external impacts on the values of World Heritage Area to the health of the while minimising impacts on the World the World Heritage Area. Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment and its Heritage Area. This complements significance as a “Natural Icon” under HNCMA projects such as the new priorities listed by the Australian “Sustainable Grazing Project” that Government, the HNCMA has has assist landholders to assess their developed a close working relationship property and to work within the with the BMWHI. HNCMA staff have capability of their land. contributed to project planning, community consultation and workshops.
The Blue Mountains World Heritage Area has a 5000 kilometre edge in the catchment that needs to be protected
66 Upper Lachlan Biodiversity Planning Framework THE PROJECT ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2007/08 CHALLENGES IN 2007/08
The project developed a Biodiversity Outputs of the project include: The significant challenge in 2007/08 Planning Framework for the Upper was to complete the Report and • Completion of consultant’s project Lachlan Shire local government area. the Conservation Significance for fine-scale vegetation mapping This was prepared by the Department of Assessment analysis in time for them in potential urban expansion zones Environment and Climate Change (DECC) to be incorporated into the process for around 12 towns and villages, and the and a consultant with guidance from a preparation of the draft Upper Lachlan preliminary identification of regional steering group comprising Upper Lachlan comprehensive Local Environmental Plan. biodiversity corridors. Shire Council, HNCMA, Lachlan CMA, This resulted in very tight timelines for both DECC, and Department of Planning. • Completion of key document “Upper the Steering Group and the consultant. Lachlan Biodiversity Planning Target dates were met due to a The framework includes collation and Framework Report”. combination of good project management, analysis of existing native vegetation and completion of tasks on time by sub- and biodiversity data to identify the • Conservation Significance committee members and the consultant. conservation values of native vegetation Assessment of native vegetation within the Upper Lachlan LGA. The in Upper Lachlan Shire, a digital Planning Framework also identifies threats multi attribute map showing the LOOKING FOREWARD TO 2008/09 to biodiversity in the LGA, priorities for conservation value of all areas of A staff training session for Council staff rehabilitation/restoration, conservation mapped native vegetation together users will be provided in 2008/09. goals and targets, and makes with individual conservation attributes. recommendations for Local Environmental Plan (LEP) zonings.
NEW DIRECTIONS IN 2007/08
The project commenced in July 2007 and was completed in June 2008. The framework will be used to inform development of the draft LEP being prepared as part of NSW planning reforms, and to provide an information resource for use by council’s development assessment staff. Other uses include setting priorities for and supporting funding applications, and assisting other agencies and landholders in managing native vegetation on lands with the LGA. The Planning Framework is expected to become an essential resource for council land management and development assessment staff.
Copyright NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007.
This map is not guaranteed to be free from error or omission. The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change and its employees disclaim liability for any act done on the information in the map and any consequences of such acts or omissions.
An example of the final biodversity kilometres 0 3 6 12 18 24 mapping produced by the project
67 REPORTING AGAINST THE Nrc STANDARDs
The NSW Standard for Quality Natural Each CMA and other natural resource The Standard is a management standard Resource Management is a set of seven managers in NSW are expected to meet rather than a technical standard – that inter-related components developed by the Required Outcomes for each of these is, it sets criteria for quality practice, but the Natural Resources Commission that components. does not define strict steps to be followed define the characteristics of quality natural or detailed specifications that must be These Required Outcomes provide resource management practice: adhered to. consistent reference points to help • Collection and use of knowledge organisations and individuals evaluate The HNCMA has established governance and improve their decision-making arrangements, business systems and • Determination of scale and management approaches at all strategies to define the steps it will take • Opportunities for collaboration institutional scales (from national to and specifications it will meet to ensure it property scale) and through all phases operates in compliance with the Standard. • Community engagement of the adaptive management cycle (plan- Detailed below are the actions the HNCMA • Risk management implement-audit-respond). took in 2007/08 to ensure it complies with the required outcomes and to further • Monitoring and evaluation improve compliance. • Information management
Collection and use key activities in 2007/08 of KNOWLEDGE
Key Performance Question: The HNCMA developed and adopted the HNCMA Knowledge Strategy which:
Do you have a process to obtain the best • Identifies methods and processes for ensuring the flow and exchange of information available knowledge to inform decisions in provides a sound basis for decision making a structured and transparent manner at a • Ensures we have technology and systems and processes in place to support our strategic level? knowledge requirements HNCMA ongoing response: • Values the knowledge assets of our community and staff and supports their • Theme Team processes including knowledge contributions to the HNCMA knowledge contributions to the HNCMA from Agencies, local Government, community and peak environment and industry groups. Met 2 times in 07/08
Two key milestones in 07/08 in support of team based knowledge development were the nomination of Knowledge leaders across the organisation and HNCMA investment in common areas on the Intranet.
68 Developing a system to collect, store and share knowledge within the HNCMA
The challenge The knowledge leaders are critical to the Looking forward effectiveness of the project and they will be The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA’s The roles of knowledge leaders is responsible for: Knowledge Strategy identified a gap in being recognised in work plans at the the collection, storage, and transfer of • Collection of information relevant to HNCMA and support will be given for relevant knowledge within the HNCMA to knowledge area the role through attendance at relevant develop an evidence base for its natural conferences • Location of information and resources resource management works. The strategy on the HNCMA Intranet also identified the need for each program team to work together in the knowledge • Distribution of information across areas to be able to take on and share new appropriate knowledge networks approaches and new learning. • Reviewing how knowledge affects HNCMA decision making and what Project achievements new knowledge may be required
The HNCMA identified seven “knowledge • Supporting ways to use existing staff leaders” among staff for biophysical and other knowledge to increase the factors including: biodiversity, soil and sum of our knowledge base land, vegetation, coastal and estuary, • Looking at ways to make knowledge invasive species and wetlands. relevant to their area accessible, used In addition the HNCMA identified and valued a range of non-biophysical areas of • On-going identification of sub expertise including: climate adaptation, categories and allocation of specific Aboriginal Heritage and Culture and topics to knowledge support- market-based instruments. managed by knowledge leader.
69 REPORTING AGAINST THE Nrc STANDARDs (continued)
Determination of Scale key activities in 2007/08
Key Performance Question: • As part of a systematic Project Evaluation and program development processes in March/April 2008, the HNCMA undertook evaluation Do you have a process to ensure natural resources workshops which reviewed the application of scale to current projects issues are managed at the optimal spatial, temporal and and identified how to adaptively manage consideration of scale to institutional scale to maximise effective contribution improve future projects. to broader goals, deliver integrated outcomes and prevent or minimise adverse consequences at a strategic level?
HNCMA ongoing response:
• HNCMA Issues Filter which assess the scale of an NRM issue using a risk management approach
• Consideration of scale- optimum spatial temporal and institutional scale during project initiation and impementation
Applying “scale” to river restoration on Wheeny Creek THE CHALLENGE A number of important “scale” issues • With 95% of the Endangered have influenced the selection of the Ecological Community, Western The Hawkesbury-Nepean River Health creek as a target for the HNCMA’s River Sydney Dry Rainforest, remaining Strategy (2007) has developed a set of Restoration Project: only on private land, much it principles for identifying high priority river is found in the Kurrajong area, reaches for protection and rehabilitation • Spatial scale considerations including Little Wheeny Creek. across the catchment. One of the major • With only 11 kilometres of the factors considered in the identification of • There is an active Landcare creek passing through private priority reaches is ‘scale’. Group (the Colo Valley Landcare property, and with a relatively small Group) at the bottom end of the River rehabilitation activities and programs number of landholdings along the catchment that is working to carried out at the most appropriate ‘scale’ creek, the potential for complete protect the assets from upstream. will have the greatest chance of long term landholder involvement in a success. Little Wheeny Creek has been restoration project could be high. • Temporal scale considerations identified as a priority river reach for a • The majority of the subcatchment • There is currently a very active number of reasons, one of which has is in World Heritage Area with most Landcare Group working along the been ‘scale’. of the creek being in ‘near-intact’ creek with the capacity to promote Little Wheeny Creek is a high conservation condition. Investing to rehabilitate and support the rehabilitation of value creek located five kilometres north- the unprotected section of the the creek making it a good time for west of Richmond. It is unique because creek could bring the entire injection of funds. both its headwaters and lower reaches subcatchment back to a very • Maintenance requirements have are within World Heritage National Park good condition. been considered in terms of Areas. A small reach of Little Wheeny • Restoration activities will protect determining the scale of the works. Creek flows between the two sections of assets coming from the upstream Primary bush regeneration will World Heritage Area through the Kurrajong World Heritage Area, such as clean require follow-up maintenance township bordering a mix of agricultural, water and other ecosystem services. 12 months further on, therefore lifestyle and urban properties. undertaking work at a smaller • Restoration activities will also scale rather than over a large protect values downstream by area at once will allow effective reducing the transport of sediment, maintenance, thus protecting nutrients and weeds down the the investment. creek into the World Heritage Area.
70 • Institutional scale considerations ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2007/08 LOOKING AHEAD TO 2008/09
• A small receptive community of • HNCMA has funded 8 River The project will aim to increase the landholders is supported by an Restoration projects for landholders continuity of landholders involved in the extremely active Hawkesbury on Wheeny Creek to carry out bush Little Wheeny Creek subcatchment by Rainforest Network Landcare regeneration in high conservation encouraging neighbours so there is a Group which ensures the work environments with a focus on building connective corridor of restoration along the is driven from the grassroots landholder skills and knowledge creekbanks and bushland. The project will level. This helps ensure the particularly aim to consolidate clusters of • The Hawkesbury Rainforest Network area will provide a good return work on focal points of the creek. in partnership with the HNCMA has on investment with committed run over 20 events such as field maintenance and ongoing support days, training workshops, information to the project. evenings and planting days over the • There is currently a significant past 12 months to increase community amount of investment coming into awareness and skills. the area with the local Landcare • Over 40 local residents are currently Group managing a variety of actively involved in environmental funded projects focused on the rehabilitation projects in partnership protection and rehabilitation of with the local Rainforest Network riparian and in-stream habitat. and HNCMA in the Little Wheeny There is a high capacity for the Creek Catchment. leverage of HNCMA investment.
Little Wheeny Creek is a high-conservation value creek located five kilometres north-west of Richmond
71 REPORTING AGAINST THE Nrc STANDARDs (continued)
Opportunities for key activities in 2007/08 collaboration
Key Performance Question: • Adoption of the HNCMA Collaboration (and Community Engagement) Strategy (December 07) which provides a comprehensive analysis and prioritisation of our Do you have a process for exploring catchment partners, current and desired relationships. This Strategy includes opportunities for collaboration with development of a Collaboration Action Plan to improve our collaborative relationships other parties to maximise gains, share across the catchment. or minimise costs or deliver multiple benefits at a strategic level? • Development of a draft Investment Prospectus to engage corporate partners
HNCMA ongoing response:
The HNCMA collaborates with community members through its Landcare and incentives programs, and broader partnerships with multiple agencies, local government and non-government organisations.
Developing an Investment Prospectus to increase corporate sector collaboration in environmental improvements
THE PROJECT The prospectus is supported by CHALLENGES IN 2007/08 the Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA’s The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA Board Additional skills will be required by key Collaboration Strategy and by the and executive have identified the need to staff to market this Investment Prospectus. Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA Board diversify sources of investment to deliver HNCMA staff and directors will need to endorsed Protocols for Engagement of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment clearly understand the motivation and the Corporate Sector. Action Plan and the need to achieve better needs of the private sector, as well as engagement of the corporate sector A number of other NSW CMAs communicating the HNCMA’s mission so as necessary part of implementing the have requested copies of the draft that mutually acceptable outcomes can be HNCMA Collaboration Strategy. prospectus to guide development of reached. similar approaches.
NEW DIRECTIONS IN 2007/08 • The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA LOOKING FORWARD TO 2008/09 has engaged in discussions with The HNCMA has: The intent is to further develop the a number of major corporations to Prospectus so that it can be used as • Developed an Investment Prospectus investigate long-term opportunities for a tool to engage with the corporate to detail ways for business and collaboration. This includes scoping sector more fully and initiate a number corporations to participate in the cash investment or the provision of formal collaborations in support of management of the Hawkesbury- of services. Landcare Australia has the environmental management of the Nepean catchment. This highlights been involved in a number of these catchment. opportunities for corporate investment negotiations and has provided a in HNCMA projects and programs conduit to potential investors. and the benefits that can accrue to the investor through their involvement. ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2007/08 The draft prospectus has been critically reviewed by Landcare The draft prospectus has been edited Australia, representatives of the following feedback and comment from Australian Government’s NRM team the various individuals who have reviewed and individuals from business and it. The discussions with individual marketing backgrounds. corporations have also been useful input to clarify the needs of the investor and clearly document this within the prospectus.
72 Community Engagement key activities in 2007/08
Key Performance Question: • Implemented a revised and more targeted communication strategy to engage priority communities in the catchment Do you have a process for the implementation of strategies sufficient to • Undertook a review of existing communication materials meaningfully engage the participation of the • Developed regional community communication plans to support consultation with community in the planning, implementation local audiences and review of natural resource management strategies and the achievement of identified • Reviewed HNCMA’s information provision and educational role goals and targets? • Implemented improved briefing and information mechanisms for local government HNCMA ongoing response: and decision making audiences
• Adopted Community Engagement • Conducted ongoing surveys, including of Landcare groups, landholders and Strategy and Action Plan Councils for input into programs.
• HNCMA Assessment panels include community representatives
• Annual community meetings
• The Theme Teams include community representatives
• The Local Government Advisory Group
• Aboriginal Advisory Group
Risk management key activities in 2007/08
Key Performance Question: • Developed a comprehensive and consistent Risk Management Strategy. The Strategy implements standard risk management processes through Risk Do you have a process for the consideration management Action Plans at three key organisational levels- CAP implementation, and management of all identifiable risks Business systems and Project/Implementation. and impacts to maximise efficiency and effectiveness, ensure success and avoid, • Finalisation of the Landholder Risk Assessment Tool based on an internal audit for minimise or control adverse impacts at a devolved grants by Walter Turnbull and Associates. strategic level? • HNCMA project/program evaluation (Feb/April 2008) included review of risk HNCMA ongoing response: assessment process and management
• Risk Management Audit by Delloites (2006)
• Risk management procedure adopted by HNCMA Board
• Risk Management Strategy is in development
• Risk assessment and management considered in all projects
• Maintenance of issues register and filter
• Assessment of CAP Risks routinely considered in agenda of the Strategic Planning Committee
73 REPORTING AGAINST THE Nrc STANDARDs (continued)
Engaging the community in the River Lett Catchment Improvement Project THE PROJECT CHALLENGES IN 2007/08 PROJECT ACHIEVEMENTS
As part of the HNCMA’s Local Government This project developed a strategy for This project adopted a best practice Partnership Program, $70,000 funding managing the multiple and diverse process for protecting a site of cultural was provided to Lithgow Council to recreational demands placed on Hyde and ecological significance, including wide address degradation on four reserves, Park Reserve to ensure that the high consultation with indigenous and other including Hyde Park on the River Lett. ecological, heritage and recreational values community stakeholders. A management of the site were protected. In addition the plan was developed based upon expert The River Lett, a tributary of the Coxs project carried out urgently- needed on- scientific and cultural heritage advice as River, is part of Sydney’s drinking water ground works including reducing access well as anecdotal feedback. catchment and has been identified in points and halting soil erosion. the HNCMA’s River Health Strategy as a Soft and hard engineering measures were focus reach. Public reserves in the River A key challenge in 2007/08 was to engage employed to control sediment run-off Lett Catchment have in recent years effectively the many stakeholders for and manage recreational vehicles so as experienced a dramatic increase in a whom the site holds significance as part to minimise disturbance of aboriginal range of low to high impact recreational of designing and implementing the works. artefacts and protect the site’s significant activities. Few of these reserves were The consultation and engagement process vegetation, each measure responding to being monitored or managed, resulting included: the unique circumstances of its location. in increasing degradation including soil • identification of stakeholders compaction and erosion, weed invasion, LOOKING FORWARD feral animal damage, wildlife poaching, • request for information, detail and timber felling, rock removal, rubbish history of Hyde Park Reserve This project has provided a basis for dumping, and loss of aboriginal artefacts. longer-term management of Hyde Park • print media and television coverage as well as a model for management Hyde Park is a reserve of high cultural • community meeting and user survey of culturally significant sites, including and ecological significance. It contains balancing the demands of recreational a large number of aboriginal artefacts, • Cultural Heritage Assessment carried users and the need to protect aboriginal one threatened flora species (Asterolasia out in accordance with NPW Act 1974 artefacts. This project has also provided bixifolia) and one regionally significant (sections 84, 90 & 91) and EP&A Act a best-practice example of engagement species (Grevillea rosmarinifolia). 1979 (Parts 3,4,&5), and including with the community, and with indigenous Archaeological survey stakeholders in particular, as a means for • public exhibition of draft plan reserve planning and the design of on- ground works.
74 Monitoring and Evaluation key activities in 2007/08
Key Performance Question: • Developed a Draft HNCMA Monitoring Evaluation Reporting and Improvement framework Do you have a process for the quantification and demonstration of progress towards • Initiated monitoring frameworks using program logic for each CAP theme using goals and targets by means of regular program logic and performance stories monitoring, measuring, evaluation and • Development of Project Program Logic template for inclusion in PSAs reporting of strategic performance and the use of results to guide improved practice? • As part of a systematic Project Evaluation and program development process in 2008, the HNCMA undertook evaluation workshops which reviewed: HNCMA ongoing response: • what HNCMA major program/projects had achieved to date (2004/08 • CIMS to monitor contribution of projects Investment Strategy) to targets • how HNCMA assesses effectiveness in delivering the CAP Targets • Quarterly target reporting to Board • what was done well and could be done better • LMD spatial representation of contributions/landscape scale • the comprehensiveness of the program/project in terms of the Standard for Quality Natural Resource Management and associated documentation • Financial systems and audits • changes that are likely to affect the projects/programs in the future
• Supported development and implementation the SAP Investment Management and Project Systems Module.
• Established an external review of the local government partnership program.
Information Management key activities in 2007/08
Key Performance Question: • HNCMA Intranet developed as a repository and library for key templates such as management agreements and key strategic documents and research Do you have a process for the management of information in a manner that meets • Developed capacity for automatic data uploads from the HNCMA’s Land user needs and satisfies formal security, Management Datadase to Hawkesbury Information Management System accountability and transparency • Improved efficacy of data uploads from SAP to HIMS/CIMS. requirements which is consistent at all levels of the CMA ? • Developed information management protocol
HNCMA ongoing response: • Continuous consultation and training of back office staff and project managers in information management systems • The CMA supports HIMS and the LMD. All staff are trained in their use and supported to ensure their consistent use
• HNCMA systems include electronic record management using a secure shared network.
75 Monitoring, reporting, evaluation and improvement
The HNCMA carries out monitoring HAWKESBURY-NEPEAN In 2007/08 HIMS upgrades were carried to enable it to report on the quality INFORMATION MANAGEMENT out and included the following features: and quantity of outcomes as part of SYSTEM (HIMS) • recording and tracking of individual the management and delivery of the landholder incentives grants and Catchment Action Plan. During 2007/08, the Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA enhanced its Hawkesbury-Nepean activities In 2007/08, the HNCMA continued to Information Management System (HIMS), • data-sharing links to the LMD – Land refine its business systems to ensure that a project management and reporting Management Database for more the financial and non-financial progress tool. HIMS is a database that assists the accurate activities reporting and and performance of its projects were well HNCMA to provide progress reports on its reducing double data entry documented. During the year, the HNCMA Australian Government funded activities also completed a draft Monitoring, (NHT, NAP and NLP) – these include: • an alerts system that raises automated Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement emailing for activities that fall overdue Strategy. • financial, milestones, project outputs and program outcomes reports • semi-automated progress reporting that emails external project managers • provide internal reports so that the with a template already populated with Executive and Board are reliably the latest project information informed about implementation of the Catchment Action Plan (CAP) and • automated landholder contract or Annual Implementation Plans (AIP) agreement template populating from the database. • maintain records that provide reports on project decision-making, project records and reporting outcomes required by the Natural Resource Commission’s statewide standard
• provide easy access for project managers to access project financial data and project documents.
76 LAND MANAGEMENT HAWKESBURY-NEPEAN In the coming year, and with the support DATABASE EXPENDITURE AND REVENUE of Department of Commerce Service REPORTING SYSTEM First and DECC, the HNCMA will move The Hawkesbury-Nepean CMA uses to implement the new SAP Investment the Land Management Database (LMD) During 2007/08 the HNCMA continued the Management and Project Systems for project planning and developing development of the SAP financial report (IM&PS) . This will provide integrated agreements. The HNCMA has been and the Hawkesbury-Nepean Expenditure financial and project activities reporting using the LMD for over 2 years and has a and Revenue Reporting System (HERRS) that will improved the organisation’s comprehensive dataset of projects. to plan and monitor cash flow as a core current reporting capacity and provide an program/ project planning tool. During the The 2007/08 highlights of developments enhanced level of project activities detail. past year the HNCMA further developed with the Land management Database When combined with the Objective ® the SAP project account structure and include: electronic records management software reports to provide improved financial (being developed by Servicefirst), the new • implementation of quality assurance to management accountability and enhanced systems will provide project managers ensure reporting integrity project reporting, both for the Board and with enhanced tools both for monitoring project manager and also for our partners • ongoing training for new staff joining finances and project inventories. For the and investors. the HNCMA first time this will provide detailed reporting The SAP® project structure allows project that integrates financial and on-ground • detailed reporting by project, SAP level financial reports to be combined into outcomes through a single business code, Program area or entire HNCMA, program themes that support monitoring system. using crystal reports. and management of program and • creation of Map outputs showing project activity based on expenditure and project locations. implementation trends.
Hawkesbury Information Management System interface
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