Indigenous Heritage Understanding Our Past

Magazine of National Parks Association of Queensland

Indigenous heritage Understanding our past

PLUS A visitors experience

ALSO FEATURED - Our remarkable old trees

- State forest cultural heritage sites Issue 21 JUNE - AUGUST 2018 - Kroombit tinker frog 1 Contents From the President �� 3 State forest cultural heritage sites... 10 FROM THE PRESIDENT Preservation of indigenous heritage 4 Kroombit tinkerfrog...... 12 Our remarkable old trees �� 6 The national park experience...... 13 A visitors view...... 8 Spotlight: Ranger of the Month...... 14 What’s On...... 15

Editorial team Advertising enquiries Reece Pianta, Jeannie Rice and Marika Strand. Please email [email protected] or phone (07) 3367 0878. Graeme Bartrim Contributor guidelines President, National Parks Association of Queensland (NPAQ) Banner: NPAQ Library If you have an idea for a Protected article we Advertising policy would love to hear from you. We can help with Advertisements are required to align with This edition embodies the visiting of relatively unspoilt seems to be for construction jobs, reviewing, editing and images. Contributions relevant NPAQ policies. NPAQ reserves the enthusiasm many people feel for natural areas, in order to enjoy operational jobs and commercial are always welcome. Please email admin@ right to refuse any advertisement at any time. npaq.org.au for a schedule of future editions. Advertisement in Protected does not imply protected places. and appreciate nature (and any activity and national parks appear Contributors, please include contact details NPAQ’s endorsement of products or services. Greg Siepen is passionate about accompanying cultural features to be a resource to be utilised. and brief personal summary. Articles can be old trees whose life span is on - both past and present), that The newspaper article suggests submitted via email or hard copy. Digital photos Copyright and disclaimer a different scale to ours. Denis promotes conservation, has a lack of a genuine ability to think should be minimum 300dpi. long term and it appears that NPAQ retains copyright of Protected. Articles McMullen informs us of the low negative visitor impact, and Cover image may be quoted provided that appropriate chequered link between protected provides for beneficially active adequate justification is simply acknowledgement occurs in the reproduction socio-economic involvement of that Queensland should grow its Cover photo: Presho State Forest cultural areas and the preservation of and use of material. traditional Indigenous lands. Allan local populations.” tourism market share. It begs the heritage site (NPAQ Library) question: what level of involvement Left image: Carnarvon NP (NPAQ Library) Articles in Protected do not necessarily reflect Lance outlines research into The World Tourism Organisation NPAQ’s opinion or position. cultural heritage sites in our state justifies the commercial aspects of has DES had in these proposals to forests. Ana Rousseaud and Brian “eco-tourism” as follows: date? Egan share their experiences and “It supports the maintenance of The reality is that Queensland’s About NPAQ enthusiasm for natural places. natural areas which are used as national parks already attract And, of course, we have the “eco-tourism” attractions by: millions of visitors and result in Mission statement tourism revenue of an estimated reassuring story of preservation - generating economic benefits for The National Parks Association of Queensland (NPAQ) work for the tinker frog at Kroombit $952 million annually. Some promotes the preservation, expansion and good host communities, organisations Tops. 100 activity permits are in place. management of national parks in Queensland. and authorities managing natural Wishing to grow the tourist industry Appreciation for natural places, areas with conservation purposes; should not blind us to evidence- Council Staff like national parks, is common in - providing alternative employment President Graeme Bartrim Business Development Officer Marika Strand our community. In contrast to so based decision making regarding and income opportunities for local the long term integrity of our Vice President Yvonne Parsons Communications Officer Reece Pianta much of our altered landscape, communities; Hon Treasurer Neil Williams these locations are dominated by national parks. Conservation Officer Laura Hahn - increasing awareness towards Hon Secretary Debra Marwedel Project & Office Administrator Jeannie Rice the weather, seasons, and the Our wish is that national parks are lifecycles of a diversity of plants the conservation of natural and managed to ensure the protection Asst Hon Secretary Jacqueline Rose’Meyer cultural assets, both among locals Councillors David Ball Contact details and animals which can provide of biodiversity so many people relief and encourage wonder. and tourists.” can experience our parks as Suzanne Cooper Office Unit 10/36 Finchley St, Milton Julie Hainsworth Post PO Box 1040, Milton QLD 4064 Biodiversity, cultural protection, It needs to be noted that the World Allan, Dennis, Greg and the others Daniel Kelly and encouraging community Tourism Organisation’s definition featured in this edition have. Phone (07) 3367 0878 suggests that there should be Denis McMullen Web www.npaq.org.au experience and awareness are the Email [email protected] key purposes of parks. However, “minimal” impact. Of course, this is Alexsis Wilson open to very wide interpretation. ABN 60 206 792 095 visitation and use of parks needs consideration as excessive human We have seen some recent If you have an Want to get involved with NPAQ? visitors can degrade the very examples of unbridled enthusiasm article idea - we NPAQ welcomes people from all walks of life and offers a variety of ways to be involved: values that are worth seeing. This for “eco-tourism” including the $1 million of tax payers money want to hear • Have fun in the bush – come • Step up – become a National • Connect with us – Facebook, is why visitor carrying capacity along on a bush walk or Parks Conservation member Instagram and Twitter needs to be determined through to fund the business case for from you! other activity or a National Parks Protector • Stay in touch – read regular scientific analysis and on a site a tourist walk/cycleway and • Get your hands dirty – • Donate – support our work updates on our website specific basis. accommodation between Palm participate in on-ground • Volunteer on exciting projects Cove and Port Douglas (ABC We can help with editing, • Share a bush adventure with The term “eco-tourism” which images and content. conservation efforts • Subscribe to Protected and children – download NPAQ’s is in common usage has loose online, 30 May) and the seeking of • Join us – become a member Neck of the Woods via email Kids in National Parks guide meaning. expressions of interest for an “eco- Email us to find out how: tourism” project in the Whitsunday [email protected] SUPPORT NPAQ AND HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE The IUCN provides a definition: Island National Park (Courier BECOME A MEMBER, DONATE OR VOLUNTEER “Environmentally responsible Mail, 30 May). The enthusiasm www.npaq.org.au/get-involved www.facebook.com/NPAQld @nationalparksassocqld @NPA_Qld

2Connect and Protect 3 NATIONAL PARKS: The preservation of indigenous heritage. Denis McMullen Images: banner: Oyala Thumotang National Park; Councillor - National Parks Association of Queensland bottom: park track and landscape; right: Archer River (www.cape-york-australia.com, via Wikimedia Commons)

Denis has researched local community. Standards of legal authority for stewardship protects rock art images in the the chequered history of construction of walking tracks over portions of land. Local Yindayin rock shelters. indigenious rights and and stairs are influenced by Traditional Owners people It is important for those national parks. Here he central authorities and access can find training and regular of us focussed on nature reminds us that the ancient protocols are required to employment as park rangers, conservation that we wisdom of Traditional conform with departmental bringing cultural heritage, understand the history of land Owners means they must be authority. experience and understanding rights. The struggle for land partners, if not leaders, in With the creation of Rinyirru of country to the wider rights for Indigenous people of conservation. (Lakefield) National Park community. They also have Cape York has many heroes, When the subject of CYPAL (Cape York Peninsula sacrifices and disappointments. protecting Indigenous land by Aboriginal Land), Lama Lama The struggle for land For every Eddie Mabo success, incorporating it in national parks National Park (CYPAL) and rights for Indigenous there exists a swag of examples is raised, the first response by Muundhi (Jack River) National of hard work and dedication most people sympathetic to Park (CYPAL), there is a lot people of Cape York being met with disappointment. these issues tends to be: of of support for the concept has many heroes, Owners. Court proceedings Park to the Wik Mungan, Southern course! Great idea! An example of this begins in and practice of incorporation sacrifices and 1974, when a Wynchanam were initiated by Koowarta’s Kaanju Ayapathu people and he National park status for of Indigenous land within disappointments. man, John Koowarta and a widow, Martha, and other also handed over the freehold title Aboriginal land, however, also the traditional national park number of other Wik stockmen, Traditional Owners from Cape deeds to 75,000 ha of Aboriginal freehold land. brings with it limitations on structure. At face value, opportunities to educate visitors planned to buy the Archer River York, this time against the Bligh access and/or usage, even this would seem to ensure not only about the nature of cattle station which covered government. In 2014, Martha Koowarta by Traditional Owners. Local protection and security for the the park, its wildlife, bush their ancestral lands with funds In subsequent years this was victorious in the High Aboriginal lands concerned. initiatives may have to be tucker and its legends, but can from the Aboriginal Land Fund decision was able to be Court against the Queensland It also means visitors to these approved by comparatively, enhance visitor experience by Commission. The government reversed. In 2012, in the Government and the Wild Rivers national parks can receive remote authorities in identifying the legendary stories of Joh Bjelke-Petersen blocked presence of Martha Koowarta, declarations on the Archer, Brisbane who may not interpretive guidance to country associated with aspects and Premier Campbell Newman Stewart and Lockhart Rivers were and have their experience of the the purchase. Koowarta’s battle have full knowledge of local features of the park. There went all the way to the High faced up to this tragic history, rescinded. circumstances. Employment park enriched by awareness of are many parks which provide Court in 1981 in the case of saying, There is tension between is subject to state government the Traditional Owners. protection for indigenous art conditions, and budgets Koowarta v Bjelke-Peterson. “Today I want to confront the preservation of conservation The advantages of this change work, one of many examples Eventually in 1988, the issue. That is 35 years ago a values and the rights of Traditional are set, again often by is that Indigenous people being Flinders Group National authorities remote from the courts resolved the matter in great injustice was perpetuated Owners. This tension happens in can reassume the role and Park (CYPAL). This park Koowarta’s favour. Subsequent and today we are here to put the same context as the pressure to this decision the Queensland that right. We are here to make more broadly on all protected government declared the sure that it is right forever and areas: between economic property a national park to to give back to people what demands – the jobs and income thwart the sale and ensure that was rightfully theirs. I am sure that can come from full use of Aboriginal people could not if all Queenslanders knew land and rebalancing the historic purchase the property. the story of what happened lack of opportunity, and the priority in 1977 and afterwards, they to protect the environment from Koowarta’s struggle was not degradation. If Traditional Owners extinguished by this move but would feel as sorry as I do myself. So today, my apologies are not partners in conservation was taken up by others after his decisions we will perpetuate death. In 2009 Premier Anna to those who have suffered the past 35 years.” historic unfairness and lose a Bligh gazetted a large tract of potential ally in our efforts to Wik lands in the Archer River The Premier then handed over protect our precious places. area under the Wild Rivers the title deeds for the 381,000 legislation, without consultation ha Mungkan Kandju (now called or the consent of the Traditional Oyala Thumotang) National 4 5 OUR REMARKABLE OLD TREES PART 1

Greg Siepen, Daniel Cole and Jan Allen VTGA - Veteran Tree Group Australia

When visiting forests or the soil and reduce the potential also very desirable to have these Historical importance and national parks, we often for erosion, especially along ancient trees living in agricultural value to Traditional Owners take for granted the large waterways. and pastoral landscapes to Historic importance: Veteran trees that we walk by or Prevention of salinization: All trees provide habitats for beneficial trees may be only a few camp near. These big, old are great water pumps, not only pasture and crop destroying hundred years old, but have trees are remarkable, not pumping water from ground level predators, such as insects, witnessed European explorers only for their size, but also to the highest leaves, but exerting spiders, micro bats, and insect traversing the continent, graziers because they have many pressure to keep water deep in the eating birds. and pastoralists opening up other important values, soil to prevent salinization. Species specific relationships productive lands and new towns such as containing their & partnerships: Trees and other and cities growing up. Trees own ‘ecosystem’, showing a Habitat: Veteran trees, like all life forms have co-evolved over have played a vital role in all slice of the region’s history, trees, provide perches for raptors centuries in Australian forests. these activities. significance for Traditional on which they can survey their Hence, they have built up close Owners, exceptional age, kingdoms, find their prey, and clean Some veteran trees contain beneficial partnerships. For the slash marks of explorers or rarity, important habitat or up animal carcasses, acting as example, as a tree ages it starts ecological associations, and nature’s recyclers. Trees provide surveyors’ markers. Graziers and to break down with the help of pastoralists often marked trees to having exceptional landscape foliage for many invertebrates and fungi and invertebrates (wood values and great beauty. bird species, offering protection identify their paddock boundary borers). In some instances one fence lines. Early settlers As a group, they are from predators. The foliage also fungus species may be restricted provides shade and shelter for also removed bark for roofing affectionately referred to as to only one tree species. Some shingles. Unfortunately, few veteran trees. They need other plant species during the hot insects are found only at the tops summer months or during violent veteran trees containing marks Scarred tree, Cleveland (G Siepen) conservation and management Brushbox, Lamington NP (G Siepen) of certain trees in our ancient remain in and around cities due to ensure they live their full life, storms. rainforests. Characteristics and values of to the mindset of housing and of Aboriginal traditional places and which may be several hundreds Many tree species also attract a industry developers of clearing or thousands of years. veteran trees events. Secondly, scarred trees great variety of pollinators that keep all their land to start with a ‘clean can tell us where canoes were National parks, state forests and Veteran trees reflect the longer, the forests healthy. slate’ – a trait that is still done manufactured, where groups of other protected areas are the slower cycles of the natural One specific benefit provided by today when new suburbs are people lived, or from which trees ideal sites for conservation of environment, on which we veteran trees is the development developed. they collected food (e.g. toe holds depend for all the essentials of these valuable trees. They can of hollows. Hollows are essential Aboriginal significance: Cutting on trunks of ‘sugarbag’ trees). Finally, be left to contribute to the local life. By virtue of their longevity, for many species of Australian bark off trees for Aboriginal uses the characteristics of the scar can ecosystems unhindered, be veteran trees provide an enduring, wildlife that play a beneficial role has declined since European tell us whether stone or metal tools available for viewing by visitors, stable habitat structure that in keeping our forests and general settlement began and many were used. and not pose safety issues which determines the long-term survival landscape healthy. Researchers Aboriginal scarred trees are now Summary: Veteran trees have can occur if they are located of any ecosystem. Veteran trees believe that it takes about 200 well over 100 years old and are closer to human infrastructure. have the following values: many important values and play a years for large hollows to develop becoming rare as they age, die significant role in their ecosystems. In this article we will cover Ancient DNA: Very old trees may in native eucalypt trees which or are removed. They help maintain environmental characteristics and values of be over a thousand years old and are used by mammals such as Aborigines removed bark to stability and complement other parts veteran trees, their specific composed of DNA material of greater gliders. Smaller gliders and make shelters, canoes and of the landscape which may have relationships, historical forests that were present before tiny insectivorous bats will also containers, identify culturally shorter life cycles. In part two we importance, and significance Europeans settled Australia. They shelter in any size hollow. It has significant trees (e.g. carving), will investigate the survival strategies to Traditional Owners. In part are the remnant survivors of the been estimated that 95 species of manufacture artefacts (e.g. of veteran trees and how we can two the survival and sustainable original forests and for survival mammal and approximately 50 bird shields, spears), collect food, manage and protect them. management strategies for species use hollows for shelter and need protection by law, whether and to assist in climbing trees. Veteran Tree Group Australia (VTGA) veteran trees will be discussed. located in national parks, on nesting. organises workshops and has expert farms, or in council reserves. Scarred trees can tell us While having veteran, hollow- a lot about the history and information about veteran trees and their Soil stabilization: Veteran trees, bearing trees living in forested development of an area. Firstly, management. More info: www.facebook. com/Veteran-Tree-Group-Australia like all trees, have roots that bind national parks is beneficial, it is Curtain Fig NP (NPAQ Library) scarred trees are a timely record 6 7 A VISITORS VIEW UNESCO World Heritage and the broken promises of ecotourism

Ana Rousseaud Images: Banner: Whitsunday, a crowded view; bottom left: Fraser Island tour; centre and right: Daintree (Ana Rousseaud)

Ana offers us an view from the increasing pressure for South Pacific Ocean. I travelled an international visitor economic development ...increasing pressure from the Galapagos Islands to drawn to Australia to driven by the tourism sector for economic New Zealand and Australia. As connect with our natural remains one of the key causes development driven part of this voyage I had the spaces. What sort of face of the rapid and permanent by the tourism sector opportunity to visit the most do we present to the world degradation of the outstanding iconic national parks and World attributes that make World remains one of the key Heritage sites in Queensland. in our national parks and causes of the rapid and From the Gondwana Rainforest World Heritage sites? Heritage sites such unique, and hence popular, tourist permanent degradation in south east Queensland to the destinations. Daintree Rainforest in the north, of the outstanding I experienced a large range of The UNESCO World Heritage A wide range of activities and natural sites assemble the attributes that make ecotourism services and I was uses have taken place in natural World Heritage sites not disapointed. most unique and outstanding fragile areas under the banner ecosystems in our planet. of ecotourism since the 1980’s such unique, and On one side of the coin my Australia hosts 16 natural sites from low impact guided visits hence popular, tourist visit to the Daintree Rainforest (12 Natural sites and 4 mixed and kayaking, to glamping, five destinations. showed me that authentic natural and cultural sites). By star resorts and four wheel drive ecotourism services do signing the World Heritage (4WD) tours. The drift from the exist and that an equilibrum Convention, Australia is original purpose of ecotourism their understanding of the between conservation, local had more similarity to a car rally economic activities are prioritised committed to the protection and towards pure economic outstanding values and hence and economic development is on the sand. While authentic in our natural spaces. Growing conservation of these invaluable development in World Heritage their commitment to preserving possible. On the other hand I experiences are possible, I also development pressure has natural spaces. them. took part in a local family run was confronted with poor tour taken a toll on heritage sites, in sites is astonishing. Over 4WD visit to Fraser Island which According to the report World exploitation and degradation of In 2017, seeking to understand guide services and a stark lack Australia and internationally under Heritage and Tourism in a natural sites, growing pressure and to experience firsthand of information on the natural the cloak of “eco-tourism”. Changing Climate (UNESCO, on ecosystems and wildlife, as the challenges facing World values of the sites I was being 2016) climate change is well as the increased risk of Heritage sites with regard to shown. I also went on a boat becoming one of the most introducing invasive species, climate change and expanding tour to the Whitsundays where, Do you have an ecotourism significant risks for World all combine to diminish the ecotourism services, I set forth despite the valuable information experience you’d like to Heritage sites. However, visitor experience and therefore on a 10 month trip across the provided by my guide, the huge share with us? Contact number of tourists on the site [email protected] to tell left little space for a connection your story. with nature or pondering on the magnificence of this natural space. References My generation has the Markham, A., Osipova, E., Lafrenz responsibility to protect and Samuels, K. and Caldas, A. 2016. preserve these remaining World Heritage and Tourism in a pristine areas. They are a Changing Climate. United Nations heritage from our past and Environment Programme, Nairobi, invaluable for the generations Kenya and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, to come. Thought and action Paris, France. by government institutions and local communities is urgently needed. It is imperative that we change course from the current trend whereby increasingly

8 9 PARK IN F CUS State forest cultural heritage sites

Banner Image: Ruined Castle Creek rock art site 1 showing Allan Lance yellow ochre boomerang stencil with superimposed hand Heritage Consulting Australia stencils in red ochre. (NPAQ Library)

their heritage values and identify of cultural heritage in our full Presho State Forest protect the heritage values of Database is inaccurate. There There are many significant whether the previously recorded report. Presho State Forest has a very the sites. is a desperate need to update cultural heritage sites in sites survive, whether they can the database and check on the Queensland state forests. Our aim was to contribute to the large suite of highly significant Shotover State Forest be located and if they still retain case for the conversion of state sites, predominantly rock art location and condition of significant Here we look at our their heritage values. We also There are significant rock art sites throughout Queensland. investigation into significant forests to national park in those sites with stencilled art currently sites in the Shotover State wanted to know whether these areas with highly significant There is a need for increased and cultural heritage sites, sites are being adequately affected by cattle. The proximity Forest including stencilled primarily those of Aboriginal Aboriginal site occurrence of Presho State forest to other and painted art sites that are regular involvement of Traditional protected and ascertain how Owners in the protection and significance, in several additional sites might be and very high archaeological national parks with high cultural significant to the Gaangalu Queensland state forests. sensitivity. and natural heritage values People. Gaangalu People management of sites in State identified through field surveys. Forests. This is taking place in Here we summarise our study Results suggests transition to national are currently involved in site Methodology park may be a cost effective protection work in national Shotover State Forest as there into nine state forests: Barakula, While Indigenous cultural are Gaangalu Rangers employed Boxvale, Bringalily, Bulli, A desktop evaluation of means to protect the cultural parks and state forests on their Aboriginal cultural heritage heritage site numbers are heritage values together with the traditional lands. Additional grant by QPWS who check on the sites Gurulmundi, Presho, Shotover, as part of their normal duties. values in the nominated not the only indicator of site funding from State, Federal and Whetstone and Yelarbon. natural heritage and biodiveristy Additional funding should be made Queensland state forests was importance, the number of sites benefits. There are currently independent funding agencies An initial assessment of the carried out from published site for each state forest is listed in available for Traditional Owners grazing rights held on Presho would help ensure that the sites to undertake appropriate site Aboriginal sites in these forests records. This was followed table 1. in the Shotover State Forests was conducted to determine State Forest so a negotiation protection work, such as fencing, by a review of site cards for Desktop studies revealed three of the surrendering of these are adequately protected. Cattle which had the highest heritage previously recorded sites in signs and site visits in Shotover state forests with significantly rights would be required to grazing also poses a threat to State Forest. values. This was done so that these state forests including the integrity of important rock art more detailed investigations important Aboriginal cultural facilitate ongoing management an assessment of the likely sites in Shotover State Forest Lessons for other forests could be carried out on heritage sites: Boxvale State of Presho’s cultural heritage accuracy of site locations, and exclusion of cattle from the forests with the highest Forest, Presho State Forest and sites. As cattle rubbing against The Shotover model should be the potential for rediscovery Shotover State Forest. the rock art is the greatest threat important sites is a priority. applied to other state forest land Aboriginal cultural heritage and ease of access. We then to Presho State Forest sites, whether or not transition to national values. modelled site occurrence Boxvale State Forest The site location data on the exclusion of cattle would help Aboriginal Cultural Heritage park is pursued (though this would Objectives and mapping of potential high Boxvale State Forest has only be the most cost effective route to Our objectives were to establish sensitivity areas for later field a small suite of Aboriginal sites. protection). inspection. The one rock art site that was whether known Aboriginal It was noted from discussions with relocated appeared not to be cultural heritage sites still retain The theoretical work preceded QPWS officers working in Presho engagement with relevant affected by cattle scuffage State Forest that there are limited or rubbing of the rock art. State Forest Site Numbers Traditional Owner groups resources for the protection of enquiring about their priorities Animals use the shelter and Barakula 48 Aboriginal cultural heritage sites. regarding heritage values in have affected the integrity of Whatever the future of this site, it Boxvale 3 state forests. Locations of the occupation deposit in the requires an increase in personnel Bringalily 1 significance to them would shelter floor. There are few and funding to fully record and only be investigated with their additional cultural heritage regularly monitor the condition Bulli 2 (6 isolated stone artefacts) approval. sites likely to be found in the of sites. This could be leveraged Gurulmundi 2 Once these engagements Boxvale State Forest. With a through the Indigenous Sea and Presho 86 occurred, we conducted a site current management regime Land Rangers program. inspection program revisiting for the regular cattle grazing Shotover 30 The future of protecting previously recorded sites, and no short to medium term cultural heritage in Queensland Whetstone 16 documenting conditions, and timber harvesting to threaten requires active resourcing and the cultural heritage values of Yelarbon 1 recording any evidence of empowerment of Traditional deterioration since they were Boxvale State Forest, further Owner’s leadership of mapping and Table 1. Aboriginal cultural heritage site originally recorded. conservation action is not numbers in each of the nine state forests. Art panel at the Conciliation Hill art site showing image en-hancement using protection work. We document these outcomes, essential. i-Dstretch. Note erosion of pigment around base and sides of hand stencil. This and discovery of incidental sites may have been due to cattle rubbing (NPAQ Library). 10 11 WILDLIFE THE NATIONAL PARK FEATURE EXPERIENCE Kroombit tinker frog Personal reflection on why our parks must be valued (Taudactylus pleione) Banner: Mt Bellender Ker from Bruce Highway Harry Hines (Matthew Palermo, Wikimedia Commons) Brian Egan QPWS Banner image: Harry Hines, QPWS Past NPAQ President Insert: Josephine Falls, Wooroonooran NP Inset: Ed Meyer (LecomteB, Wikimedia Commons)

The Department of Environment hopeful that the adult female will Fitzroy Basin Association (FBA) Articles in the February/March them “the thin places” where the vine and leeches. This grades and Science’s Queensland Parks develop a full complement of helped finance this important issue of Protected by President walls separating them from their with altitude into upland rainforest and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and eggs over the coming months project and have supported Graeme Bartrim and Tony Groom gods were thinnest, and they (different species, shorter, and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary with a view to breeding in spring. survey and monitoring of mention how experiencing aspects could feel a strong emotional less underbrush), and then into of nature can trigger an interest in involvement. It helps if you cloud forest above 1,500m, with (CWS) have commenced a Amphibian chytridiomycosis, a threatened frogs at Kroombit collaborative project to undertake Tops over many years. Their conservation and may also provide have an iconic place or building different species, a low dense fungal disease responsible for real mental and physical health involved. Some of the “thinnest” canopy due to frequent cloud and captive breeding of the critically declines and disappearances of ongoing support of this project endangered Kroombit tinker frog and other conservation work benefits. places for me around the world high winds, but relatively open frogs across the globe, is a major include – underneath. (Taudactylus pleione). This comes threat to the tinker frog species at Kroombit Tops (in particular You’ve probably all felt your spirits on the back of a successful both in the wild and in captivity. feral animal control) is critical uplifted in this way at times when • An early morning panorama of So what’s so wonderful about captive breeding trial using the The preceding work with the to the continued survival of visiting some of the localities Everest and associated peaks it? It’s beautiful open forest, closely related Eungella tinker captive population of Eungella the Kroombit tinker frog. Other in our Queensland national from Everest View Hotel above easy to walk through; golden frog (T. liemi), by Professor tinker frogs at CWS, developed important contributors to this parks. I know that I have! Think Lukla at 4,000m, enhanced by a bowerbirds and their bowers Jean-Marc Hero (formerly of safe treatment protocols to rid project include present and of the overall appeals of iconic brilliant blue sky after 3 days of could be seen for the last 400m Griffith University), Dr Ed Meyer adult and subadult tinker frogs former staff of CWS, including Lamington, the magnetism of Mt cloud and snow. or so of altitude; stage makers (consultant ecologist) and of amphibian chytrid fungus. In Michael Vella, Saskia Lafebre, Barney (especially if a bushwalker), • Iguassu Falls National Park (tooth billed bowerbirds) could Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. keeping with these protocols, Natalie Hill and Matt Hingley. the gorges and side canyons on the Brasil/Argentina border, be heard and their large cleared In early February 2018, Ed treatment of Kroombit tinker Department of Environment and of Carnarvon, the magic island as you’re immersed within its stages decorated with fresh Meyer and Harry Hines, Senior frogs for chytrid commenced Science staff (past and present) scenery of the Whitsundays, hundreds of thundering waterfalls green leaves located; and it was Conservation Officer QPWS, in the field, 12 hours after and numerous volunteers have losing yourself in the wildflowers and fabulous lookouts. the only place I’ve ever had tree also contributed over many of Girraween or Cooloola, or the kangaroos drop down beside me undertook a field trip to Kroombit capture. Pretreatment chytrid • Sitting at peace on a rocky Tops National Park to collect a infection status was assessed years to our understanding of World Heritage tropical rainforests and look before bounding away. the distribution and abundance of North Queensland. slope in Arches National Park But topping everything were the small number of tinker frogs for by carefully swabbing the flanks in Utah, drinking in the view of captive breeding. We focused our and ventral surfaces of the frogs of the Kroombit tinker frog, its Many years ago I read an article in unusual tea trees (Leptospermum status, and the need for captive nearby glorious Delicate Arch wooroonooran) which were efforts on finding an adult female and subsequent DNA analyses. National Parks, the magazine of with its backdrop of the sun but were unable to locate one (due After swabbing, each frog was breeding. Thanks are also owed The National Parks Conservation common on the tops of the range to the local QPWS staff for use setting behind the distant snowy here. They form much of the in part to the very wet, cold and treated with a 10 minute bath in Association in USA. The early mountains. windy conditions prevailing at this an antifungal solution. This same of the barracks (warm, dry and Celtic peoples had a name for canopy in some parts, produce time). We did however locate and treatment was repeated every 24 mostly leech free!) and their those places in nature where they • Visiting the soaring magnificence an abundance of white flowers in collect an indeterminate, possibly hours for 10 days after capture. ongoing efforts in controlling feral felt closer to the presence of their of Reims Cathedral in France early summer which contrast with subadult female and an adult Analysis of skin swabs of the frogs animals at Kroombit Tops. gods/mother nature. They called when its great organ came to life the greens of the other trees, and male on this trip. A subsequent immediately post treatment and with some of the most wonderful are readily seen from the Bruce collecting trip in March 2018, in subsequent weeks, has shown organ music I’ve ever heard – Highway almost a mile below. with Saskia Lafebre and Kimberly that all four animals collected from that’s 40 years ago but I can still To top off all the wonders below, Revelly from Currumbin Wildlife the wild are now chytrid free. see and feel it! these tea trees produce a Sanctuary (CWS), Harry Hines of Depending on the sex of the And my top pick for Australia network of very strong branches QPWS and Ben Revelly (a QPWS subadults collected in February/ is a place that few if any of you and are easily climbed. Choose volunteer), resulted in the collection March, additional animals may would have visited - the top of Mt your tree carefully and it’s of a second indeterminate be collected from the wild this Bellenden Ker in Wooroonooran possible to emerge above the individual and a partially gravid spring. The Kroombit tinker frog National Park between smooth canopy from the hips adult female. Animals collected husbandry team will regularly Gordonvale and Babinda. It’s a up. You’re monarch of all you from the wild were carefully strenuous climb up steep rough survey in all directions, from the transported back to a dedicated assess the progress of captive frogs and evaluate the need for trails, starting not far above sea distant coral reefs offshore to the husbandry facility at Currumbin level and ending almost a mile canefields below and the Atherton within 48 hours of capture. They additional animals as required. In the longer term, we hope to high in the sky. The lower slopes Tablelands to the west. have all settled in to their new are tall, dense lowland rainforest, What a great and memorable home and are eating well. We are release captive bred animals back to the wild. often cyclone damaged with lots feeling – it’s a very thin place of nasties like stinging tree, lawyer indeed! 12 13 WHAT’S For more details and activities, visit our website: RANGER OF N www.npaq.org.au/events THE MONTH NPAQ activities Insights into the diverse backgrounds and day-to-day More details npaq.org.au/events Æ Mookin-Bah Reserve - Bird Watching activities of Queensland’s park rangers Date: Saturday, 19 August 2018 Æ Brookwater - Bird Watching Meet: 7.30am Chelsea Road Chris Mitchell Date: Sunday, 22 July 2018 Cost: $5 per person Diamantina National Park Meet: 7.30am, 58 Scoparia Drive, Brookwater. Leader: Geraldine Buchanan 3349 1109 Cost: $5 per person Bring: binoculars, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water. Leader: Lesley Joyce 07 38187646, 0423109788, [email protected] Brittney Butler is a Park Can you describe your favourite From Rickertt Road turn north into Chelsea Road. This is a dead end national parks experience? Directions: From Brisbane on Ipswich Motorway take Exit 32. At Silky Oak section of Chelsea Road. The “signposted” entrance to the Mokin-Bah Ranger at Chillagoe-Mungana Drive, Brookwater, turn left into Scoparia Drive. At the turnaround point the Reserve is on the left between private acreage properties approximately Caves National Park in north There are hundreds of caves in the carpark is to the left. Detailed directions at www.npaq.org.au/events half way along this stretch of road. Parking is on the grassed verge. There Queensland. She is a young Chillagoe area so it’s quite exciting Bring: Hat, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, morning tea, lunch are no toilet or picnic facilities at this Reserve. Aboriginal woman with cultural to walk into a ‘new’ cave that you optional and a chair. connections to the Yirrganydji haven’t seen before. But I have to people from the Cairns area. say that our ranger-guided cave q Mt Ngungun & Trachyte Circuit Vale Brittney grew up around tours are the best experience in Date: Saturday, 28 July 2018 Chillagoe, camping, fishing Chillagoe, and my favourite! The Pam Egar and taking advantage of all three cave tours that we (Rangers) Meet: 8.30am, Mt Ngungun Carpark on Fullertons Road, Glasshouse Mountains NP NPAQ was only recently made that the country had to offer. guide in Donna, Trezkinn and Royal Cost: $5 per person aware of the passing of life member She always had a career as Arch caves, are all spectacular. I Leader: Frank Freeman 07 3824 3954, 0427 655 514, [email protected] Pam Elgar, in November last year. a Park Ranger in the back of highly recommend them! Directions: Travel north from Brisbane along the Bruce Highway, turning left into Steve Irwin Way. Turn Pam and her late husband Ron her mind, so after studying What is the best part about left from Steve Irwin Way into the township of Glasshouse then follow the signs to Mt Ngungun and the joined NPAQ in 1975. and working as a beauty working in a National Park? carpark at the start of the walk. Directions to the beginning of the Trachyte Circuit will be given by the The library at Living Choice Kawana therapist for about three years, leader after Mt Ngungun. Carpooling is recommended. Island has been named The Pam QPWS ranger Brittney Butler (above). I really enjoy working in a team made the decision to become Bring: Two litres of water, light jacket, rain gear (just in case), torch, insect repellent, morning tea, lunch, Elgar Library in honour of their a Ranger. It took time, but PHOTOS: BRITTNEY BUTLER & QLD GOVERNMENT environment, with colleagues afternoon tea. long time librarian. Our sincere eventually happened! an awesome opportunity. I was from all age groups and diverse condolences to Pam’s family and able to walk away with some backgrounds. We have ex-tradies Members Meeting to consider and vote on friends. really useful information to share on staff, so I appreciate learning How long have you worked in what I can from them. We are NPAQ events proposed amendments to the Association’s with my work mates once I got Rules. Please contact the office via Norm Traves 1923-2018 national parks? home. always doing something different; NPAQ AGM Former NPAQ President and never stuck doing the same thing telephone or email to register to receive a I started work in Chillagoe- What is your most memorable The next NPAQ member’s meeting: copy of the proposed amendments. Councillor Norm Traves, passed for any length of time. away on Sunday 3rd June 2018. Mungana Caves National Park in moment? Date: Wednesday, 19 Sept, 2018 April 2015 when I was 19 years What is your top tip for visitors Annual Awards Presentation & Dinner He lived a very interesting life, which old. Moving back to Chillagoe My most memorable moment to parks for bushwalking? Time: 6:30pm start Enjoy the NPAQ Annual Awards Dinner, he documented in a book called so far is crawling into caves directly following the AGM. Romeo Lahey was a pretty big deal for me, It gets quite hot around Chillagoe, Venue: Mount Coot-tha Botanic “Of Many Things, A varied and because I knew there wouldn’t with an ornithologist named Gardens Auditorium Awards will be presented to members who rewarding life”, which can be viewed Mike—a crazy bird person! We with a mix of humidity and dry have reached the magical mark of 50 years be many young people my age heat, so it’s very important to The National Parks Association of in the NPAQ Library. out here. I have settled in well were looking for white-rumped Queensland Inc. will host its Annual of NPAQ membership. An engineering student during swiftlets for a survey. It was keep up your intake of water. We though. usually tell visitors that the best General Meeting at Mt Coot-tha Botanic Date: Wednesday 19 September WWII, he served in a RAAF definitely a cool experience, time for bushwalking is late in the Gardens Auditorium on Wednesday 19 Venue: Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens construction squadron towards Which parks have you worked being surrounded by hundreds September 2018, at 6:30pm. Auditorium. the end of the war. Afterwards he in? afternoon, as our walking tracks of swiftlets in complete lead to some great viewpoints NPAQ President Graeme Bartrim, Cost: $35 per person . was a civil engineer working on Being based at Chillagoe involves darkness. These little birds are for watching sunsets and wildlife, warmly invites all members to attend RSVP and pay by 5 September to admin@ major construction projects around working at nearby parks and special because they use a kind which become active in the cool of the AGM. A report of the past financial npaq.org.au, or call 07 367 0878. Payment Brisbane, and in North Qld and camping out. The parks I’ve of echo-location to find their way the late afternoon. year’s activities will be presented, and can be made by credit Cape York area. worked in so far are Staaten River in the dark, similar to bats. We the Council elected for the coming year. card, cheque or direct bank transfer. He had a life-long love of the bush and Errk Oykangand (Mitchell- also witnessed the birds nesting Following the AGM will be a Special and was instrumental in getting Alice Rivers) near Kowanyama. I on their single egg. They are NPAQ thanks Brittney for taking time to Undara Lava tubes protected as a also spent a month working for very unique birds, with unique answer our questions. We appreciate Member’s afternoon tea National Park. Norm enjoyed many the Lake Eacham base, and a nests! They are worth reading the work all QPWS rangers undertake in Date: Tuesday 24 July 2018 adventures with NPAQ friends since week down in Rockhampton for a more about to understand just protecting Queensland’s national parks. Time: 2pm he joined in the 1940’s and will be cave guiding school, which was how special they are. Venue: NPAQ Office, 10/36 Finchley St, Milton greatly missed. Please join us for an afternoon catch up with a cuppa and some light refreshments as Our sincere condolences to his honourary life member John Bristow presents his trip to Lake Eyre. family and friends. 14 15 National Parks Need you

The end of the financial year is PHOTO: OSCAR WEEKS a great time to support NPAQ. WWW.NPAQ.ORG.AU OFFICE ADDRESS Unit 10/36 Finchley Street, Milton QLD As a registered charity, POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 1040, Milton QLD 4064 PHONE 07 3367 0878 EMAIL [email protected] donations to NPAQ are tax www.facebook.com/NPAQld deductible and help us continue our work. @nationalparksassocqld Find out more: npaq.org.au/donate www.npaq.org.au 16 © 2017 National Parks Association of Queensland Inc. or respective photographers as noted