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Tally Ho of Australia’S Tropical Rainforests World Heritage - Here Come the Pigeons! Wmagazine

Tally Ho of Australia’S Tropical Rainforests World Heritage - Here Come the Pigeons! Wmagazine

ELCOME TO THE 2002 Dry Season edition Tally Ho of ’s Tropical Rainforests World Heritage - here come the Pigeons! WMagazine. Over 130,000 copies of the magazine are distributed to LEFT: The Pied residents and visitors to the World Imperial Pigeon also A Day in the Life of known as the Torresian a Pigeon Counter Heritage Area, from Imperial Pigeon to Cooktown. On North Brook Island off Mission Beach The magazine is packed with ACH year conservationists enthusiastically Parks and Wildlife Service stories about the animals, plants observe the annual migration of the majestic (QPWS) staff and volunteers record pigeon and people that live in and around EPied Imperial Pigeon (Ducula bicolour) from numbers once a month throughout the Australia’s Tropical Rainforests. Papua New Guinea to the northern tropics of September to February breeding season.They These were placed on the Australia. Commencing in August, this migration travel to the island in the early morning and heralds the start to another breeding season. use their time cleaning the beach, taking note World Heritage list in recognition The pigeons return coincides with the fruiting of other bird life inhabiting the island and of their importance as the oldest of our various tropical plants when the supply of checking on pigeon nests. continuously surviving tropical fruits in Papua New Guinea is low. Pigeons prefer The birds start rainforests on earth. to roost on islands as there are fewer predators to return to the present. Males and females form breeding pairs nest in the late and take turns to fly to the mainland and feed afternoon and this each day. The respective 'spouse' stays at home to is when counters look after the nest. Pigeons commence their and their journey back to Papua New Guinea in February. assistants take up Following a decline in numbers earlier this their positions on century, the population of Pied Imperial Pigeons is the western most now on the increase. Last year pigeon counters tip of the island. Management of the World Heritage Area is the recorded 35 000 pigeons returning from the The pigeons responsibility of the Wet Tropics Management Authority, a -based agency funded by the mainland to North Brook Island off Cardwell at the usually start to Queensland and Commonwealth Governments. end of the day. This figure represents approximately ABOVE: Seeds return in groups of Opinions expressed in the magazine are not half the breeding population on the island. collected under three to four birds necessarily those of the Authority and, while every The pigeons are also where the birds roost but as dusk effort has been made to check the accuracy of the articles, the Authority can not accept any playing an indirect role in approaches, more responsibility for any errors and omissions. rainforest conservation. birds head for home and flocks can bombard Any comments or ideas for future issues are Seed traps are placed under the island from all directions. welcome. trees where the birds roost At this time, novice counters are replaced Please send them to: and, once the fruit flesh is by experienced hands and it can become a The Editor digested, the hard inner frenzy of number calling and hurried Australia’s Tropical Rainforests seeds are passed unharmed. scribbling by assistants as the “time-keeper” World Heritage Magazine These are then sent to alerts counters to start a new page for the Wet Tropics Management Authority PO Box 2050 Cairns 4870 conservation groups for next fifteen minute segment. Counting ends Ph: (07) 4052 0555 germination and use in when the last of the light is gone, and the Fax: (07) 4031 1364 revegetation programs ABOVE: A Pied weary counters make their way back to the Email: [email protected] around Australia’s Imperial Pigeon egg mainland. By Fiona Barron Tropical Rainforests. in its nest

LEAN off those hiking boots – planning opportunities for Rainforest Aboriginal people and is underway for an extensive new walking local businesses who will be providing transport, Tracks Ctrack system. accommodation, food and guiding services. The Approximately 100 km of tracks have been tracks are expected to be finished proposed in previously isolated rainforest bounded in 2003. by the towns of Ravenshoe, Tully, Innisfail and Through Millaa Millaa. The tracks will build on the north’s current reputation as a Misty mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. They follow extensive river systems, cross mountain ranges, and provide views of Mountains some of Australia’s spectacular waterfalls. Walkers will be able to stroll for several hours or spend seven days walking the network, depending on their fitness levels and holiday schedules. It is envisaged the track development will not only create jobs during track construction, but will generate

2 DRY SEASON 2002 RAINFOREST IN REVIEW

WORLD HERITAGE GREEN LIGHT FOR WALKING STRATEGY LOGGER INSTITUTE SENTENCED TO A total of 148 existing tracks and 53 potential 12 MONTHS IN A new Australian Tropical Forest Institute new walks have been identified in the Wet PRISON would establish Cairns as a world leader in Tropics Walking Strategy released late last year. tropical forest research and management and The strategy aims to provide a new, ABOVE: Damaged diversify the regional economy, an independent coordinated approach for bushwalking in the Wet rainforest on the A man who cut down 23 report has found. Tr opics bio-. Herberton Range trees in the World Heritage A feasibility study by Gibsons Consulting The strategy highlights a need for more long where the illegal Area will spend 12 months in estimates the Institute will bring long-term distance walking track networks, overnight walks, logging took place prison. economic flows to the region and provide a best heritage walks and Aboriginal guided walks. Brett Dempsey pleaded practice model for integrating science, It also tackles issues such as developing guilty to “destroying forest products” on the management, commercial and Aboriginal expertise. standards for track construction and Herberton Range, an area managed by the Government funding is now needed for the first maintenance, monitoring environmental impacts Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. stage - a two-floor circular building with and promotion of tracks. The illegal logging affected one hectare of forest, conference and lecture rooms, theatre, The 90-page document or a 12-page summary and scientific reports indicate it will take more laboratories and public displays. brochure and map are available from the Wet than a century to fully recover. The largest The building will provide a hub for satellite Tropics Management Authority. removed was estimated to be over 300 years old. buildings encouraging commercial operators and The Wet Tropics Management Authority’s government departments to co-locate to the site, CHECK IT OUT executive director, Russell Watkinson, said he beside University at Smithfield, Contact Campbell Clarke at the Wet Tropics hoped the sentencing would send a strong message Cairns. The Institute hopes to attract funding so it Management Authority on (07) 4052 0542 or that deliberate logging would not be tolerated. can open its doors for business in 2004. www.wettropics.gov.au/mlr//managingtourism.htm “Going to prison isn’t pleasant and I feel sorry for Brett Dempsey’s family,” Mr Watkinson said. ABORIGINAL NEGOTIATIONS “However, this was a serious offence and I hope BEGIN the judge’s decision will deter any other would-be offenders. “Australia’s Tropical Rainforests are like a The World Heritage Area is made up of the natural savings bank for our children. People who traditional lands of over 20 different Rainforest steal from the World Heritage Area are stealing Aboriginal groups, who have customary this precious legacy from future generations for obligations to manage their country according to their own personal gain.” their cultures. In recognition of Rainforest Aboriginal peoples’ VISITORS HELP RESEARCHERS rights and interests, negotiations have begun to develop a regional agreement between Rainforest Aboriginal people and government management Visitors to the World Heritage Area are agencies. providing important information to rainforest The process is expected to take more than 12 researchers. months. The intent is to develop arrangements for Te n selected visitor sites between the Daintree better involvement of Rainforest Aboriginal and Paluma are being surveyed as part of a long- people in management of the World Heritage term monitoring program. Area, recognising their native title rights and Researchers will be asking visitors how they obligations to the land. heard about the site, why they chose it, and its good and bad points. CONTACT The results will help the Wet Tropics Nigel Hedgcock at The Wet Tropics ABOVE: Bushwalkers will have the Management Authority to manage the World Management Authority on (07) 4052 0555 or opportunity to explore new walks as part of Heritage Area better by understanding the needs Jim Petrich at The the Wet Tropics Walking Strategy of visitors and matching them to suitable sites. Development Association on (07) 4031 3432.

Help Preserve Australia’s Order a unique Trees for Life gift for a special friend or Tropical Rainforests loved one - or support the foundation in other ways. ❑ Yes! I would like to become a Foundation Trees for Life supporter for Future Generations by ordering ____ trees @ $55 each (including GST) or ❑ I would like to join the Rainforest Supporters Program @ $55 per year ❑ The Australian Rainforest Foundation says or Please accept my tax-deductible donation of $ ______instead of buying flowers or gifts to mark a special Payment details: ❑ Cheque (made payable to the Australian Rainforest Foundation) occasion, people can purchase a rainforest seedling ❑ Visa ❑ Mastercard - Number:______Expiry date: ____/____ Amount: $______which will be planted in Australia’s Tropical Name on card: ______Rainforest World Heritage Area. Signature: ______Date: ______Foundation President, George Mansford, said the Contact details: (your receipt and Trees for Life print and card will be sent to this address) opportunity of marking the birth of a newborn Name: ______child, celebrating an anniversary or birthday or Address: ______simply remembering a loved one - by giving a gift ______State: ______Postcode:______of life to the rainforest - was becoming a popular Email:______Phone Number: ______gift alternative. Please mail or fax this coupon to: Australian Rainforest Foundation, PO Box 3006, Cairns QLD, 4870 Ph: 07 4051 2000 Fax: 07 4031 2400 3 A USTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE Five must see’s for the Tropics Now is the time to take a drive under the cool forest canopy, swim in clear creeks - and enjoy the natural beauty of our World Heritage listed rainforests. Here are five fun activities for the tropics…

ABOVE:

ABOVE: Ravenshoe Visitor Centre

1. HEAD FOR THE HILLS

Escape the coastal heat and head up to the Tablelands or Paluma for a weekend, but don’t forget your warm clothes - even in summer. Make a bed and breakfast or a classic old pub your weekend base and explore some of the World Heritage Area’s beautiful natural features. You can start by working your way through the list of attractions shown on the magazine map on pages 8 and 9. Visit the Wet Tropics Visitor Centre at Ravenshoe (pictured above) and Malanda for the inside story on what to see and do in the area.

BELOW: Eacham visitor display ABOVE: Aerial view of Lake 2. VOLCANIC

Lake Eacham and are crater lakes created 12,000 years ago by high-pressured steam. Despite their violent past, these serene lakes are a great place for a bushwalk, picnic, devonshire tea or boat cruise. Wet Tropics volunteers are often stationed at on weekends to answer questions and lead walks around the lake. For more information contact the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service office at Lake Eacham, phone (07) 4095 3768.

LEFT: The pontoon at Lake Eacham

4 DRY SEASON 2002

3. WATERFALLS GALORE

When the weather is wet, it’s time to load the camera with film and visit the World Heritage Area, the waterfall capital of Australia. During these periods it’s wise to stay on sealed roads or you may end up staying longer than you expected. Luckily, there are fantastic waterfalls of every shape and size serviced by bitumen roads. Take a drive along the and visit near Tully and Jourama Falls near Ingham. Travel along the and visit the picturesque Nandroya and Tchupala Falls. Then if you’re not waterfalled-out, tour the Tablelands taking in the Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit, near Ravenshoe and at Mt Hypipamee.

ABOVE: Nandroya Falls

4. TAKE THE STING OUT ABOVE: Stoney Creek is in Barron OF SUMMER Gorge National Park and is part of the traditional lands of the Aboriginal people. Stinging jellyfish make swimming along the Walk across the causeway and coast from November through to April dangerous. drop into the many swimming Instead, cool off in a freshwater swimming hole. holes, or walk up the hill to the They are fed by rainforest creeks and the water is old Stoney Creek weir refreshingly clean and cool. But remember – (1km, 20 mins) tragedies occur when people are swept over waterfalls, trapped under submerged logs, or drowned in floodwaters. Swim only at approved areas which are properly signposted and managed.

Remember to consider the local wildlife and other visitors and: • stay on tracks and cleared areas so ABOVE & LEFT: Kayaking and rafting are popular sports you don’t accidentally trample the after the summer rains undergrowth • take plastic, not glass • insect repellent and sun blocks pollute 5. WILD WHITE WATER ACTION creeks, so try to wash off any excess before you get in the water Waterways pick up volume and speed when the summer rains • use the local toilet facilities – don’t come, creating a roller coaster ride of white water thrills and pollute the water or the forest spills. High water levels and submerged logs can create • leave your pets at home dangerous conditions, so the best idea is to join a professional raft or kayak guide who knows the river and can supply safety • carry out all rubbish. equipment. Then hold on to your paddle and get ready for some adrenalin-packed action!

5 AUSTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE

THREATENED OR ENDANGERED Butterfly Ant-ics

BUTTERFLY sharing accommodation exude a sugary substance from with hundreds of ants may seem a little their backs that the Golden Ants A strange to most of us but, to the Apollo feed on. Jewel butterfly and the Golden Ant this peculiar Before the larva matures into a relationship is normal. butterfly, it does some forward ABOVE: The unusual ant plant The Apollo Jewel butterfly (Hypochrysops apollo planning and makes an exit hole apollo) is an endangered species confined to coastal big enough for its emergence as an paperbark swamps of north-eastern Queensland adult. Next, it spins a cocoon as part of between Cooktown and Ingham. Their larvae feed its pupation stage-this is where the exclusively on the bulbous body of the Ant Plant transformation from a larva to butterfly (Myrmecodia beccarii) that grows on the trunks and occurs. Once the transformation is complete, branches of melaleuca and other coastal trees. the butterfly leaves the plant through the exit hole When the adult butterfly lays an egg on the and flies off into the wide blue yonder. outside surface of the Ant Plant, the Golden Ant As an endangered species the Apollo Jewel has (Philidris cordatus) carries the larva inside and cares numerous pressures affecting its survival. Some of for it until it has matured. Being the only native the threats are from human interference-such as ant that lives in and pollinates the Ant Plant, it is the extensive clearing and drainage of paperbark a very important part of the Apollo Jewel butterfly’s swamps in which the larval host grows. Feral ants life cycle. can also be a menace when they invade the Ant The two species co-operate by the larvae eating Plant, forcing the Golden Ants to relocate and the internal tissues of the Ant Plant, enlarging leave the Apollo Jewel larvae unattended. pathways that the ants use. The feeding larvae also ABOVE: The Apollo Jewel Butterfly BOOK REVIEWS JIRRBAL RAINFOREST SHARING CULTURE - DREAMTIME STORIES RAINFOREST

Maisie Yarrcali Barlow, $18.65 Denise Ellen Ashman, Walker’s Bookshop, Cairns Photographs by Stanley Breeden $19.95 Walker’s Bookshop, Cairns Maisie (Yarrcali) Barlow’s Jirrbal Rainforest Dreamtime Stories are witty and wise moral This addition to the series of books for young people about Australian fables from the Jirrbal People of Ravenshoe. Indigenous cultures is based on the Jumbun community, a group of The stories were told to Maisie when she was Aboriginal Rainforest Peoples from neighbouring lands between Cardwell a child growing up in the rainforest of the and Innisfail. Far North – a time she remembers fondly in Sharing Culture - Rainforest introduces members of the Jirrbal, Girramay, her book. Jiru and Gulngay peoples and their traditional habitat, their hunting A Jirrbal Elder and grandmother and great- methods and food sources in the rainforest. Superb photographs and grandmother, Maisie now tells her people’s factual narratives illustrate amongst many other things how the shell of a stories to the children of Ravenshoe where snail is used to slice up the poisonous Black Bean, which can cause painful she teaches Jirrbal language and culture at the diarrhoea if not prepared correctly. It also shows how to make string from Ravenshoe State School. the inner bark of the fig tree, and how to cut a shield from the buttress of ABOVE: One of Whilst nothing can beat hours of story telling around a rainforest fig. the many the bushfire, Jirrbal Rainforest Dreamtime Stories is the next Whilst the book is designed for young people in the beautiful best thing to listening to an Elder. Maisie’s stories are upper primary and lower secondary age range, many illustrations brought to life in her first book by the beautiful and adults will enjoy this beautiful publication and found in Jirrbal charming illustrations of Michael (Boiyool) Anning. A local Stanley Breeden’s brilliant photographs of Rainforest artist, Michael was the first Queenslander to win a major the natural riches of Far . Dreamtime Indigenous arts award in the Northern Territory. The book is ideal for studies in society, Stories All stories are breathtakingly simple but full of wisdom Indigenous culture, natural history and and insight.Targeting readers from 6 to 10 years old, this the environment. It is the perfect gift for book is definitely a treat for the entire family. friends overseas and tourists who are interested in Aboriginal Australia.

RIGHT: Stanley Breeden’s photographs in Sharing Culture – Rainforest are outstanding

6 DRY SEASON 2002 nnggss tthhaat inngg TThhii t BBiittee aanndd SStti Dr Karl Kruszelnicki is Australia’s best known science commentator and author. His latest book is “Q&A with Dr K - Why It Is So.” Dr Karl’s popular science talkback show on Triple J radio recently featured a famous north Queensland local – our stinging tree. LITTLE SUCKERS DR KARL TALKS ABOUT… T’S hard to think of what useful purpose leeches serve in the rainforest – except of Leeches can STINGING TREES I course as the basis of horror stories to be consume several told by bushwalkers. times their own weight USTRALIA is well known for its In Australia’s Tropical Rainforests you’re in just one bloody meal, venomous snakes and spiders, but most likely to meet land-dwelling jawed leeches before dropping off and A what a lot of people don’t know is (Gnatbobdellida), who sink their teeth into warm finding a dark spot to rest that we also have the world’s most painful blooded creatures and keep the victim’s blood and digest. After a good plant – the aptly named stinging tree. flowing with an anti-clotting secretion meal, a leech can survive There are six species of stinging tree in called hirudin. several months before Australia. They live along the east coast of Leeches are annelids, or segmented feeding again. Australia from Cape York in the north to worms, and are closely related to Everyone has their Victoria in the south. You’ll see them along earthworms. They have 34 segments, with a favourite theory on how to tracks, the banks of creeks, and where the powerful sucker at the end. Australian keep leeches from biting them. Probably the rainforest canopy has been broken by a leeches can vary in size from around 7 mm best idea is to cover up your legs and falling branch or tree. They also pop up after up to an impressive 200 mm avoid brushing against lower a cyclone has ripped through a forest, or after when extended. vegetation when you’re in an area has been cleared for development. Leeches breathe through their body walls damp or wet places. Stinging trees play an important part in and use sensory organs on their heads and To detach a leech, the ecology of a rainforest. Many native body surface to detect changes in light, vibration carefully expose it to a flame, Australian animals, including birds and and temperature. A hungry leech will wave its or sprinkle it with salt, tea insects are not bothered by the sting, and head and body around, looking for signals that tree or eucalyptus oil or happily devour the leaves and fruit. But they food is nearby. Rainforest bushwalkers are a very rubbing alcohol. If you just want are very nasty to introduced species such as convenient food source, brushing against low to move the leech on, try sliding a humans, horses and dogs. foliage or sitting on damp logs or rocks fingernail under the biting end. The Even though they don’t hunt in packs, where a waiting leech can easily hitch a hirudin might cause the bite to bleed for these stinging trees are pretty vicious. The ride and grab a snack. some time, and the bites are often itchy. sting is delivered through tiny silicon hairs that cover the leaves and fruit. You can think of the silicon hairs as tiny fibres of non- transparent glass which penetrate your skin, and then break off. They’re so tiny that often the skin closes over the hairs and you can’t MARCH FLIES remove them. The silicon hairs cause pain because they ARCH flies (or Tabanids) are medium They have two carry a neurotoxin. You can release the to large biting flies with broad large blade-like neurotoxin from the hairs by heating or Mtriangular heads and a long, mouthparts, used to cooling your skin, or just touching it. horny proboscis. slash the skin, and a The pain comes immediately after Widespread throughout warmer parts of proboscis that pierces the touching the plant, and it gradually increases Australia, they will attack humans, livestock skin, inflicting a painful puncture to a peak after about 20-30 minutes. and domestic pets to obtain blood. Adults wound that will continue to ooze What is really weird is that the pain is real are more abundant in moist rainforests blood long after the fly has departed. and intense, but your body does not suffer and woodlands and are a particular As the blood flows the fly gorges itself any damage. Fire and snake bites cause pain, nuisance near water. unless it is disturbed. AND they damage you as well. But it seems It’s the females of the species March flies sometimes hover so that the pain from this tree could be the only that usually cause havoc at much before landing that they are easy pain that is not related to any damage. If we your family picnic. They are targets for a good swatting. Because the look at the neurotoxin involved, we might responsible for seeking out flies see in ultra violet, studies have learn a lot about the mechanism of pain. blood for their supper while shown that they are attracted to darker colours, So what’s the best way to get the hairs out the males feed on nectar such as dark blue, so if you’re planning an outing of you, once you’ve accidentally got stuck on and plant juices. in an area known for its march flies wear light a stinging tree? The best method is to The females are coloured clothing! Insect repellent containing remove the hairs with a hair-removal wax voracious feeders, DEET will generally deter most biting flies - look strip. It might sound like a good way to get a often hovering for it on the label. free leg wax - but the pain is certainly not persistently A small consolation is that the average life span worth it. before landing. for an adult march fly is only three to four weeks. ©Copyright Karl S. Kruszelnicki Pty Ltd

7 A USTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE DRY SEASON 2002

Southern Wet Tropics Central Coast N v o u r Northern Region

o e a R i v e r R i r One of the reasons the Wet Tropics was listed as D t o n ve d e i g h r m n N a Cooktown E n Townsville Tully Gorge b 1 1 y r a World Heritage Area is its spectacular scenery. 1 1 There is a small Wet Tropics display at the visitor The 42km scenic drive through lower Tully Gorge e The Barron River drops dramatically from the Scenic drive from Cairns to Mossman. Great views and R v i i v Tablelands to the coast at the Barron Falls on the out- beaches. Historic Bump Track hike from Mowbray Valley. Commercial centre at Stuart on the city’s southern approach. It is begins at the town and offers camping, lookouts, R e

n

La r skirts of Kuranda.Ask local rangers about the network campgrounds at Ellis Beach, and Mossman.

staffed by volunteers daily from 9am to 5pm. walkways to the river and whitewater rafting. a Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss...

u n

r n ☎ (07) 4778 3555 QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8779 a A of historic trails. QPWS Cairns ☎ (07) 4053 4533 Rive r Helenvale Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary Rossville 2 Paluma Mission Beach Visitor Centre 2 Davies Creek National Park A leader in wildlife exhibits, this award-winning 2 This mountaintop village is a great weekend retreat. 2 The Wet Tropics Visitor Centre at Mission Beach is Swimming pools and stunning waterfalls surrounded by wildlife sanctuary provides a chance to observe up o r There is camping at Big Crystal Creek at the base of run by local volunteers from environment and tourism arr n R i v e eucalypt forests.The 6km unsealed road can be rough. Bring close a large range of flora and fauna. Informative Lakeland B the range (bookings essential ☎ (07) 4721 2399) or at groups. ☎ (07) 4068 7197 or ☎ (07) 4068 7099 Ayton charcoal for the fireplaces. Camping fees apply. Past the guided tours and displays provide an experience found r e Smithfield national park is restricted access. QPWS Atherton nowhere else.Admission charge. ☎(07) 4099 3235 12 km past the village.Walking tracks v R i C Kuranda e r i R l range in distance from 600m to 2km. QPWS m v o Heights ☎ (07) 4091 1844, QPWS Cairns ☎ (07) 4053 4533 l e d P h a r o mfi el e P o n e ☎ (07) 4776 1700, or NQ Water ☎ (07) 4770 8526 l s i Licuala State Forest Park B n y s i n t r e e u R a l i Mossman Gorge 350m children’s walk, 1.3km rainforest circuit & 7.8km R a D Cape Tribulation v i v e Redlynch 3 rainforest walk from the Tully-Mission Beach Road to e D r Danbulla Forest Drive A short track leads to or take your r e 3 v A 30km drive around Lake Tinaroo between the dam wall time and explore the rainforest along a 2.4 km walking

Frosty Visitor Centre Lacey Creek. QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8779 e

l Cairns 3 o and . Day use areas: Platypus Rock, Kauri Creek, track.A grassy area for picnics for day use only. QPWS

This popular tourist rest stop between Ingham and p To wnsville has Wet Tropics displays on local birds. m The Chimneys and School Point. Camping: Platypus Rock, Kauri Mossman ☎(07) 4098 2188 Cow Bay e

n ☎ (07) 4770 8184 Cape Kimberly t and Downfall creeks, School Point and Fong-on Bay.Walking Lacey Creek Daintree Copperlode tracks: , Mobo Crater, Kauri and Downfall creeks Snapper Island R Dam Look out for cassowaries on this 1.2km rainforest o

a and Cathedral Fig Tree.Water skiing allowed in some areas.

d Daintree Ferry Crossing & Village walking track off the Mission Beach - El Arish Road. QPWS Atherton ☎ (07) 4091 1844, ☎ (07) 4095 8459 4 Jourama Falls QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8779 Low Edmonton Located 36km north of Mossman, the 21-car ferry Geo 4 S t r g M Isles Cascading falls over salmon-coloured make e r c operates from 6am to midnight seven days a week.The R i v e L e Mossman o d R this a favoured camping and picnic area among locals. i v e Daintree village 10km upriver has art and craft shops, r L it Lake Barrine coffee shops, timber museum and river cruises. A 1.5 km track leads to falls. Port Douglas t M l Gordonvale Clump Point i t Mount e 4 QPWS Jourama ☎ (07) 4777 3112 c h Visit the giant Kauri trees at the beginning of the 5.1km circuit e l Julatten M A 2.5km circuit track winds through rainforest at l RCarbine i u walk near this crater lake, or take a boat cruise across the water. v l g Bingil Bay to a spectacular lookout on Bicton Hill. e r r r Walkamin a e Wet Tropics displays at the kiosk. QPWS ☎ (07) 4095 3768 v e v Daintree Environmental Centre QPWS Mission Beach ☎ (07) 4068 7183 R i Hinchinbrook Visitor Centre, Ingham 5 This privately owned visitor centre 11km north of the 5 Mount Daintree ferry on Tulip Oak Road features a canopy Community volunteers staff the centre on the H Double Island Tinaroo o M corner of the Bruce Highway and Lannercost St, Mon- d Molloy Green Hasties Swamp National Park tower, theatres, interactive computers, boardwalk and g u Palmerston Highway k l 5 i n Island Kairi g Nyleta Bird Hide at Hastie’s Swamp near Atherton, has a bird list experienced guides.Admission charge. ☎(07) 4098 9171 Fri 8.45am to 5pm, weekends 9am to 2pm and most 3 s o Kuranda r n a Named after bushman Christie Palmerston, this R v public holidays. ☎ (07) 4776 5211 i e of over 220 species. Bird numbers peak between July and v R i v e r Tolga scenic rainforest highway between Innisfail and the e R r n o i September and many vagrant birds visit this area. Amenities at r v gives access to short walks, Lake r e a r Platypus Park 2km away. QPWS Lake Eacham on ☎ (07) 4095 3768 waterfalls, picnic spots and camping. B Jindalba Fitzroy Atherton or Birds Australia North Queensland Group on ☎ (07) 4096 8230 6 Cairns d Stage one is a short boardwalk (700m) winding around a QPWS Palmerston ☎ (07) 4064 5115 Yarrabah Island R 6 n Lake Eacham Wallaman Falls is the largest single drop waterfall in t o fern-edged creek.There are some stairs on the walk. Look r Mareeba e Australia, tumbling 257m to a large pool.The falls are 51km r b out for cassowaries, tree kangaroos and king ferns. Picnic e west of Ingham, 18km of which is unsealed road. No H tables and toilets near the car park. QPWS ☎(07) 4098 2188 SEE INSET n 6 M u l g t o This is one of the best-known tourist attractions on open fires. For directions, road conditions and bookings 4 r High Island r Dimbulah Gordonvale a e Queensland’s highest mountains, Bellenden Ker and Ri v e r h Malanda contact QPWS Ingham ☎ (07) 4776 1700 s h v A t the Atherton Tableland, 3 km from Yungaburra.The fig Bartle Frere, loom above this popular picnic area. a l e Chillagoe W R Herberton tree has a curtain of aerial roots which drop 15 metres Short track to falls.A rough trail leads to the summit i v Thornton Beach & Noah Beach e r to the ground. QPWS Atherton ☎ (07) 4091 1844 7 of Mt Bartle Frere (1622m) for fit, experienced Frankland Thornton Beach day use area and kiosk is 25km north

r Islands

e 0 km 5 10 15 20 of the Daintree ferry. Another 5km north is Maardja Broadwater State Forest walkers only. v 7 Atherton i Day use and camping area, 45km west of Ingham, an QPWS Josephine Falls ☎ (07) 4067 6304 R boardwalk through rainforest and mangroves. 1.5 km north l l hour’s drive from the highway. N e Lake Eacham of Maardja is the Noah Beach national park campground, o s 7 Herberton Malanda r s t Similar to Lake Barrine, this is a lake in an extinct volcanic crater. closed during extremely wet weather. Beware of marine QPWS Ingham ☎ (07) 4777 2822 u Almaden h Bramston Beach R J Wet Tropics volunteers often lead guided walks on weekends. 700m stingers Oct-May. QPWS Cape Trib ☎ (07) 4098 0052 o Tarzali hn Ta self-guided walk from the picnic area or 3km circuit walk. Follow 5 t e s Miriwinni The Boulders, 7km from Babinda, has a reputation t R o the signs to the ranger station which is a short walk from the picnic Five Mile Creek for claiming the lives of unwary visitors. Locals put this i v n e r e Innisfail 8 R area for more information. QPWS ☎ (07) 4095 3768 This is a great place to take a break from behind down to an Aboriginal legend, but it could be a i ‘Bat House’ Environment Centre Millaa Millaa v Etty Bay 8 the wheel, just 200m from the Bruce Highway on the combination of fast water, slippery boulders and Ravenshoe e r South Operated by the Australian Tropical Research Innot Hot Foundation, this volunteer-run visitor facility at Cape southern outskirts of Cardwell. careless behaviour. 19km Goldfields walk leads to Springs Johnstone Mourilyan QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4766 8779 Goldsborough Valley. ☎ (07) 4067 1138 Mount Garnet Malanda Environmental Centre Tribulation has information on rainforest, reef and Mena Creek 8 This volunteer-run centre at takes visitors alternative technology. Open 10.30am to 3.30pm. T on a journey of discovery. Learn how the Tablelands was Admission charge. ☎(07) 4098 0063 u l Cowley Beach l y formed and how animals, plants and people have survived Rainforest and Reef Centre, Cardwell Goldsborough Valley R i Silkwood Kurrimine v e and adapted. Several short walks. ☎ (07) 4096 6957 9 Visit the centre in the main street near the jetty to 6 This is a popular place for families and school r El Arish make bookings for Hinchinbrook and other coastal groups to have a barbecue and enjoy a swim in the Koombooloomba Cape Tribulation Mission Beach 9 Visit the Dubuji visitor area featuring 1.2km boardwalk islands, and for Wet Tropics information. hot summer months. Camping sites are also available. Riv e r Dam L y n d H QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8601 Goldsborough is an hour’s drive south-west of Cairns. e Mt Hypipamee (The Crater) through rare rainforest growing on sand.Access to r 9 b Tully Look out over this geological curiosity caused by a beach here or via nearby mangrove boardwalk. The road is unsuitable for caravans. e r R QPWS ☎ (07) 4052 3431 t y build-up of underground gases. Easy walking track leads Additional carpark and viewing platform at Kulki, 2km a R r to picturesque Dinner Falls at the headwaters of the north. QPWS Cape Trib ☎(07) 4098 0052 i r v u e M Barron River. QPWS Lake Eacham ☎ (07) 4095 3768 10 Hinchinbrook borders two World Heritage areas- r the Wet Tropics and . Ferries leave Lake Morris 7 Lava Lodge Bilyana Goold Island the mainland at Cardwell and Lucinda.Thorsborne Trail Beautiful artificial lake surrounded by rainforest in 10 Black Mountain is a four-day hike - numbers are limited so bookings the hills 20km from Cairns. Kiosk and picnic area open 10 Waterfall Circuit Giant piles of black granite boulders 30km from are required. QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8601 daily from 8am, gates close at 6pm. Great views, no Kennedy Don’t miss this short drive which takes in Millaa Millaa, Cooktown have been the subject of Aboriginal legends swimming. ☎ (07) 4055 7414 Cardwell Hinchinbrook Zillie and Elinjaa waterfalls.The circuit begins on the and European stories for many years. QPWS Island outskirts of Millaa Millaa township and loops around to Cooktown ☎(07) 4069 5777 finish 2km away. Johnstone Shire Council ☎ (07) 4030 2222 National Park 11 r Mangrove walk through diverse coastal park. v e R i 8 i n Explorer Edmund Kennedy travelled through here Enjoy a picnic at this municipal park and swim in the e k Abergowrie Keating’s Lagoon r d 11 during his 1848 expedition to Cape York. clear waters of Freshwater Creek, 24km from Cairns. u Ravenshoe Visitor Centre A boardwalk and walking track built by local B 11 QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8850 Secure your valuables. ☎ (07) 4044 3044 Volunteers run the centre from 9am to 4pm daily. Other local Gungarde Aboriginal rangers follows the edge of this Wallaman Lucinda attractions include a steam train on weekends & public holidays important bird sanctuary 5km from Cooktown.A bird Valley of & markets every fourth Sunday of the month. ☎(07) 4097 7700 hide provides a perfect spot for watching magpie Lagoons Falls Trebonne Halifax Orpheus Island geese, black ducks, water whistlers and brolgas. Drive Skyrail Cableway QPWS Cooktown ☎(07) 4069 5777 12 The 207km drive from Kennedy to Mt Garnet 9 Get a treetop view of the rainforest riding a Ingham Palm features coastal views, Blencoe Falls and North cableway over Barron Gorge to Kuranda, with stops at Forrest Islands 12 Millstream Falls Queensland cattle country.The road is unsealed and lookouts and information centre. Make it a round trip Beach Spilling over a basalt lava flow, these falls are the widest in Australia. caravans are not recommended. Make sure you and with the historic Kuranda train. Admission charge. Open eucalypt forest is dominated by stringybarks, bloodwoods and 12 Mount Cook National Park your vehicle are prepared. ☎ (07) 4038 1555. ironbarks. Bottlebrushes border the creek. QPWS Gulf Savannah A 2km walking track passes through diverse vegetation QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8779 ☎(07) 4097 6721, Lake Eacham ☎(07) 4095 3768 communities to the top of Mount Cook.The walk takes Oasis Roadhouse about 90 minutes to the top. For group walks with an Hidden Aboriginal guide, phone Gungarde Community Centre on 10 Lake Placid ☎(07) 4069 5412. QPWS Cooktown ☎(07) 4069 5777 Murray Falls Lake Placid is a municipal park on the Barron River Valley 13 Tully Gorge National Park 13 Excellent camping facilities in the foothills of the beside the Barron Gorge National Park, 12km from Paluma Herald A lookout 25km from Ravenshoe provides awe-inspiring Kirrama Range between Cardwell and Tully.The 20m Cairns. Day use facilities, restaurant and kiosk. Island views of the deep gorge below.Walking track leads to B u Rollingstone r d more views. QPWS Lake Eacham ☎(07) 4095 3768 Nature’s Powerhouse, Cooktown falls is one of the prettiest in north Queensland. ☎ (07) 4044 3044 i k Magnetic i n Saunders 13 QPWS Cardwell ☎ (07) 4066 8779 Wet Tropics World Heritage Area Island Nestled in bushland in Cooktown’s historic Botanic Beach Gardens this centre features wildlife displays curated by R Cape i the . Open from 9am-5pm with cafe Rivers Main Roads Secondary Roads v Pallarenda Cleveland e r r e 14 open from 10am-4pm 7 days a week. Admission charge v i This artificial lake supplies Kareeya Power Station. Popular among NOTE: this symbol indicates that disabled toilets R ☎ (07) 4069 6004 To wnsville campers and canoeists. QPWS Atherton ☎ (07) 4091 1844 (QPWS: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service) are available. It does not indicate that the tracks 0 km20 40 60 80 100 r

a are accessible to wheelchairs. S t Distance in Kilometres

We hope you enjoy visiting the World Heritage Area. 8 We recommend this guide be used together with a regular road map. 9 AUSTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE Weedy CHARACTERS

A GUIDE TO IDENTIFY WEEDS LEFT: Pond Apple (Annona glabra); one of the major environmental weeds in our tropical rainforests If you’d like to know what nasties your garden might harbour you can have a look at the Weed Pocket Guide for Agricultural and Environmental EXT time you’re admiring the splendour investigating the role of cassowaries and feral Weeds in . of our tropical rainforest landscapes, pigs in the dispersal of Pond Apple (Annona It lists 79 weeds – 47 from the Wet Tropics N keep in mind not all “visitors” to the glabra) one of the major environmental weeds Management Authority’s (WTMA) list of rainforest are welcome. in our tropical rainforests. undesirable plants and the 30 worst weeds Weeds are quietly creeping their way into our A Rainforest Co-operative Research nominated by local councils. rainforest habitat and if left unchecked, have the Centre project showed feral pigs can retain The guide is a joint project between WTMA, potential to destroy the integrity of our World Pond Apple seeds in their digestive system for local councils and state government agencies. It was Heritage Area. up to 95 hours, and could potentially deposit funded by the Natural Heritage Trust. A weed is basically a plant growing in the seeds anywhere within their home range of up World Heritage Area landholders and neighbours wrong place. Some weeds can be quite appealing to five square kilometres. have been mailed free copies of the weed guide to to the eye, however they pose an environmental Pond Apple seeds may remain in the enlist their help in identifying and removing weeds. threat to our World Heritage rainforests. cassowary digestive system for up to 28 hours It’s a comprehensive pocket companion with New plants are transported into the forest resulting in seed dispersal hundreds of metres, colour photos, descriptions of the weeds and their either through animal droppings, clinging to possibly kilometres away. preferred habitat and seasonal flowering times. animals’ coats or even in the mud on your car Guides can be purchased from your local tyres, or hiking boots. Once taken out of their RIGHT: The weed council. natural environment and away from their guide is a handy If you think you’ve found a weed, take predators, they thrive and compete with native pocket companion a cutting and obtain positive identification plants for nutrients and space and become a weed. for weed and the latest control information from Some weeds are sold at local nurseries as exotic identification in the your local council’s weed inspector or plants and have the potential to be spread by field Department of Natural Resources and domestic gardeners. Mines (DNRM) land protection officer. Weeds are a problem for graziers and farmers too. Noxious weeds can poison cattle and infiltrate CONTACT areas set aside for pastures and crops. DNRM land protection officers: Plants grown for commercial crops in South Johnstone 40641 155 agricultural areas are also common as weeds in the Atherton 40911 844 World Heritage Area. Animals may spread weeds Charters Towers 47870 600 further by eating its fruit and scientists are

Echo Creek Falls walking track near Tully was constructed by a team of Echo Creek local Rainforest Aboriginal people who are now working as guides. Team leader Robert Grant has spent 22 years working on nearby banana - Far Away in Time farms and is now enjoying working for himself in the bush he loves. “We spent our childhood running around and living in the bush,” he says, “so we all really loved getting in here and clearing up the track. We’ve kept it looking very natural, so that people can get close to nature.” The track follows a traditional Aboriginal trading route from the coast over the coastal range to the Tablelands. Robert and several other guides take groups for a half-day walk through the forest, identifying the many different rainforest species by both their Aboriginal and botanical names and describing their traditional uses as bush tucker and medicines. “We help them to look at the bush through our eyes,” explains Robert. “We tell them how Aboriginal people used to live and walk around in the rainforest. ISITORS are experiencing Australia’s Tropical “We also explain how there are many Aboriginal Rainforests in new ways through the growing language groups in the rainforest, and each one is V number of tours owned and operated by local very different. We all have our own language Aboriginal people. One of the latest ventures is the Echo and culture.” Creek Falls walking track in the Tully Valley. ABOVE: Robert Grant pauses to If you walk into the forest and see only a mass of trees, contemplate by the creek CHECK IT OUT you’re not getting the full picture. Take a walk with a MAIN PICTURE: Aboriginal Phone (07) 4066 7770; Fax (07) 4066 7824 Rainforest Aboriginal guide and you’ll have a completely guides pick their way through Email:[email protected] different experience. the lush rainforest near Tully Website: www.elrancho.com.au

10 DRY SEASON 2002

LEFT: Dendroceros ciliatus is a Miniature worlds hornwort that grows on twigs and branches in PLANT the rainforest. in the rainforest The tiny “horns” the Seed are only 6 mm long!

HINK reconciliation and the word “nursery” is not likely to immediately T spring to mind. But just west of RIGHT: Cairns on the Atherton Tableland,a Plants of the Tropics reconciliation success story is occurring at a Author Andi Cairns small local nursery. sometimes has to In a certain nursery at Lake Eacham you resort to climbing are likely to be greeted by young Aboriginal men ropes to reach and women working side by side with elderly bryophytes high in the volunteers, potting and transplanting Silky HE soft, green carpets rainforest canopy! Oak and Black Bean seedlings. It’s an all too lining creeks and blanketing rainforest logs rare sight in rural Australia but one made T can be easy to overlook and pass by. But providing a refuge for insects and protecting soil possible by the efforts of local Aboriginal and these miniature forests have a lineage which goes from erosion. non-indigenous people, conservationists and the back 360 million years, when the first water plants Tropical north Queensland has over 430 Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS). evolved to survive on land. different species of mosses, and a single rock It all began in 1982 when a group of Most people call all these plants “mosses,” but beside a stream can be home to over eight Yungaburra residents wanted to plant local botanists describe them as “bryophytes” which different bryophytes. native species on their land but found that includes a diverse range of mosses, liverworts Ta ke a closer look at these miniature worlds in only exotic plants were available from the and hornworts. the rainforest on your next school excursion or Forestry Department.Trees for the Evelyn Unlike other plants, they don’t have true roots, family outing. and Atherton Tablelands (TREAT) was stems or leaves. They reproduce from spores or formed to encourage the planting of local fragments of plant. In fact, any part of a CHECK IT OUT native rainforest tree species. bryophyte can grow into a new plant identical to To help you explore these new worlds, you need An agreement was reached between the parent! a hand lens and a field guide. We recommend TREAT and the QPWS and the Centre for In the past, these plants have been used for “Plants of the Tropics” available from James Cook Tropical Restoration nursery evolved.TREAT wound dressings, to burn as fuel, and in University Bookshop on Cairns (07) 4042 1111 and the Centre for Tropical Restoration medicines. They are also an important part of the or Townsville (07) 4781 4111, Walker’s Bookshop nursery went from strength to strength but rainforest ecosystem, soaking up nutrients, in Cairns and Mary Who in Townsville. was missing one element - involvement by the local Aboriginal owners the Dulguburra- Yidinji and the Ngadjon-ji people.An Aboriginal trainee program was established and Yidinji woman Syb Bresolin and Ngadjon Rainforest man Warren Canendo joined the nursery.The two trainees had a lot of cultural knowledge DETECTIVE to share with their fellow workmates. QPWS Ranger Tania Murphy enjoys OVE over Sherlock Holmes, north learning language names and the spiritual Queensland has its very own rainforest aspects of looking after country through Syb M sleuth tracking down a ruthless and Warren. rainforest killer. “There is that real “caring-for-country” Enter mild mannered botanist Paul Gadek who is ethic in Aboriginal culture and getting a waging a campaign to reveal the truth about a mass better understanding of this gives us, as murderer. The criminal in question is the soil fungus conservationists, an extra dimension to our Phytophthora cinnamomi, and it is responsible for the work that’s very important,” she said. deaths of millions of plants in Australia and overseas. After starting her one-year traineeship, Syb Recent outbreaks in the World Heritage Area contacted her former teachers in the Caring killed every plant in patches of up to two hectares. ABOVE: Elementary, my dear Watson: Assoc. for Country program at the Cairns TAFE and “These dieback sites are very eerie places,” says Prof. Paul Gadek points out differences in invited the students to the Centre. Since Paul. “The leaves wither on the trees and branches genetic profiles to researcher Sandra Abell. then, the students have been taught skills in die and fall to the ground. The only sign of the restoring country by Aboriginal and non- fungus is a chestnut coloured stain under the bark.” inoculation methods, measure regeneration and indigenous trainers who work at the Centre. Paul organised a team of investigators at James look for new ways to detect outbreaks. “When the students first arrive they’re a Cook University in Cairns to work on the case using “We’ve still got a long way to go before we solve little shy, but by the time they leave the satellite imagery, high-tech computer maps and the whole phytophthora mystery,” says Paul, “but nursery, their heads are up, full of pride and genetic testing. we’re on the way to understanding what we’re up confidence from all they’ve learnt.There’s They have found 12 different phytophthora species against.” something positive happening that makes me in the rainforest and at least some are found here feel hopeful for our future. I’ve found since naturally. HOW YOU CAN HELP I’ve started here that there is a lot of healing Many of the outbreaks are near old roads, so the If you have been walking or camping, wash your for reconciliation happening,” Syb said. fungus may have arrived on machinery. Recent boots and tent pegs in disinfectant before dieback patches may have been triggered by people, entering the World Heritage Area. If you find a If you would like to become a volunteer feral pigs or changes to drainage patterns. dieback patch, contact the Wet Tropics at the nursery you can contact The researchers continue to test the sites, trial Management Authority on (07) 4052 0555. TREAT on (07) 40953 406.

11 A USTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE Cassowaries

BELOW: QPWS Ranger Cameron Allanson in the recently completed cassowary holding facility

Cassowary numbers at Mission Beach are considered to be at a crisis point. It is estimated that there are now only 45 adult cassowaries in A Cassowary the area, threatening the viability of the population. Sadly, humans Haven are implicated in most cassowary deaths, mainly due to land HANKS to a donation of land by Joseph and Freda Jorrissen, a Cassowary clearing, dog attacks and vehicle strikes. T Rehabilitation Centre has been constructed at the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) Mission Beach office. The LOSS OF HABITAT ROAD DEATHS Centre is located at Garner’s Beach, 50km south of Innisfail and 7km north of Mission Beach. The loss of habitat and lack of links to other At least four known cassowary-crossing points In 1959, Joseph and Freda immigrated to rainforest areas at Mission Beach has resulted in occur along the stretch of road from El-Arish to Australia from Germany and purchased 27ha of birds sharing unnaturally small territories. Mission Beach where protection of the habitat is land at Garners Beach. They were both lovers of Normally, cassowary territories are large, some considered vital for the species survival. nature and became fascinated with wildlife in the measuring up to seven kilometres. Being a solitary The Wet Tropics Management Authority worked Mission Beach area. They were particularly animal, sub-adults are chased from the home closely with the Department of Main Roads during interested in cassowaries and kept a cassowary range by their father and go in search of their own a road upgrade in 2001 to include cassowary family tree. In 1977 the Jorissens donated their territory. With fierce competition for habitat warning signs and speed reduction areas. block of land to the QPWS as a sanctuary for already, it starts to get a little crowded. The design incorporated local wildlife including the cassowaries. Forced to seek food from farming areas, road markings to show known After Joseph’s death in 1980, Frieda stayed on cassowaries are drawn closer to the human cassowary-crossing areas, in their house and continued Joseph’s work community. Many people make the mistake of yellow caution signs, rumble maintaining the cassowary family tree. Frieda feeding them, resulting in the association of strips and coloured shoulders to passed away in 2000 and late last year, local people with food. This can cause their create the perception of a volunteers and Innisfail based QPWS staff began behaviour to become more aggressive as they narrow road. All of these construction on the Cassowary Rehabilitation wander into settlements searching for food. ABOVE: measures are aimed at Centre. Dog attacks are often common in these situations. A caution sign encouraging motorists to slow Ranger in Charge at the Mission Beach on the El-Arish down. Management Unit, Cameron Allanson said with RIGHT: to Mission Beach Regardless of planning safer the provision of appropriate cassowary handling Loss of Road roads for cassowaries, their equipment, the Centre is now able to deal with habitat has survival in Mission Beach and any immediate emergencies. caused a surrounds depends on the local community. Most “We are the only hands-on cassowary response decline in road kills in the area are by residents driving to unit in the local area, and the Centre means we cassowary and from work. It’s vital to look at the big picture, can treat and monitor cassowaries and other numbers take a bit of time out of our busy schedules and wildlife in a safe, conveniently located slow down. By pulling together we can try to save environment,” he said. our “big birds” before its too late!

12 DRY SEASON 2002 CASSOWARY FACTS in CRISIS Species - Casuarius casuarius Cassowaries were listed as a nationally Stick ‘em Up! endangered species in 1999. Cassowaries belong to a group of flightless birds called “ratites” which includes the S REGULAR users of the Mission cassowaries and emus of , the Beach Road, tour companies ostriches of and , the rheas of Aoperating in the World Heritage and the kiwis of New Area have been enlisted to help save the Zealand. Ratites also includes the now cassowary by placing yellow “take care” extinct elephant birds of Madagascar and stickers in prominent places on their buses. the moas of New Zealand. The Cassowary Advisory Group (CAG), a community based organisation, received Cassowaries stand up to 2 metres tall. funding from the Natural Heritage Trust Males weigh up to 35 kilograms, females up for the project. With vehicle strike being a to 60 kilograms. major cause of cassowary deaths in the Courting occurs during May and June. Mission Beach area, it is hoped the stickers Females mate with males of their choice. remind drivers to be on the look out for the The pair remains together for a few weeks endangered species. until the female lays about 4 large pale CAG Chair, Steve Russell said the group green eggs. has received positive feedback from a ABOVE: Cassowary stickers are popular number of diverse groups. with the majority of local tour operators After egg laying the female leaves the male “We’ve had comments from timber haulers and to incubate the eggs and rear the chicks. ice delivery companies as well as mums and dads,” home range. She may then take another mate and lay he said. “Tourists acknowledge the cassowary is an icon another clutch of eggs. As a volunteer for the Mission Beach Tourism species here. They are also sympathetic to the fact The male incubates the eggs for about two Information Centre Mr Russell said tourists that the cassowary is an endangered species and months.He looks after the young for about constantly ask him where they can see a cassowary. are interested in what we are doing to try and nine months and then chases them away to “The tourists see all the signs and photos and protect them.” fend for themselves.Eggs hatch from July to want to know where they can see a cassowary in Keep an eye out for the stickers (and September. the wild. cassowaries) on your travels and if you hop on a “We see cassowaries here every day, but usually tour bus without a sticker on it ask the driver why it’s the same one or two birds wandering their he doesn’t have one! Cassowaries in Schools OW kids can get involved in cassowary conservation with the launch of the Wet Tropics Management Authority’s Cassowary Education Kit. N The cassowary has three toes.The inside The kit is a comprehensive teaching tool for primary school grades five to seven and was produced by toe has a large claw that is used to defend the Cassowary Advisory Group. itself. It was funded by PNG Gas and developed in consultation with Education Queensland and with support The large keel shaped helmet on the from Channel Ten’s Totally Wild television programme and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. cassowary’s head is called a casque. It contains an activity book for teachers, an endangered species video produced by Totally Wild and posters and brochures. They are the sole disperser of the larger It’s hoped the education kit will inspire children to take an active rainforest seeds and are an role in saving the cassowary and encourage their mums and dads important factor in rainforest and other family members to get involved as well. revegetation. The kit has been distributed to schools in known Cassowaries are culturally cassowary habitat areas, from the Daintree in the north to significant to Paluma in the south. Rainforest CHECK IT OUT Aboriginal people. If you would like a Cassowary copy of the kit and feathers, bones attend a school in a and nails are cassowary habitat used in area, call the Wet ceremonies. Tropics Management Authority on Cassowaries have (07) 4052 0555. been known to Alternatively, the live for up to 40 activities and book are years. available on our website www.wettropics.gov.au

13 A USTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE 2001 CASSOWARY Each Year the Cassowary Awards recognise individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Australia’s Tropical Rainforests World Heritage.

PETER STANTON

Peter began his working life as a forester on the Atherton Tablelands and for the last 40 years he has ALEXANDRA BAY travelled through rugged, inaccessible areas, often on foot STATE SCHOOL and for long periods of time. Peter went on to play an instrumental role in the listing This award is in recognition of the school’s of north Queensland’s national parks and World Heritage dedication to environmental education and listing of Australia’s Tropical Rainforests. cassowary conservation. The staff at Alexandra His expertise in vegetation management combined with Bay have worked hard to ensure an environmental his intuitive understanding of forest communities led to focus in school programs, establishing such Peter’s outstanding contribution to our understanding of interesting subjects as “Rainforest Maths.” tropical rainforest and its management. Eight years ago the Daintree Cassowary Care RIGHT: Peter Stanton Group set up a community nursery in the school grounds. With the help of the children and their parents, they have raised and planted many SYB BRESOLIN thousands of cassowary food trees throughout the district. Syb is a Yidinji woman who completed a four-year ranger training program at TAFE before going to Their tree planting efforts have won the school work on revegetation projects with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Centre for Tropical national and international recognition, but Restoration at Lake Eacham. perhaps the highest seal of approval came from a In just a few years, she has enriched the staff’s understanding of the importance of Rainforest wild cassowary which now visits the school’s Aboriginal cultural heritage and the spiritual significance of “Caring for Country”. Syb also plays an revegetation plot. important role in teaching Aboriginal students the science and practice of revegetation. This cross-cultural training is a ground-breaking development for government agencies and adds a new dimension to environmental management. Syb has not only been busy planting trees, she has also been planting the seeds of reconciliation with the international dignitaries, community volunteers and students who visit the Centre’s nursery. They have learned from Syb the art of accepting people for who they are, and valuing their cultural differences. See Syb’s story on page 11.

GEORGE MANSFORD

After a military career spanning three wars, most people would be ready to relax. But George Mansford didn’t flinch when it came to leading local people into yet another battle to save the cassowary from extinction. George has always led from the front and by example, and devoted enormous time and effort to encouraging the community to participate in World Heritage conservation and management. He played a pivotal role in knocking on doors in and Canberra and convincing both State and Federal Governments to support critical funding for cassowary conservation. George was a Wet Tropics Board member and Chair of the Landholders and Neighbours Group ABOVE: Alexandra Bay State School for six years, and continues to play an important ABOVE: George has rallied local communities student Tui Trezise accepts the award on role in World Heritage conservation as president and the State and Federal Governments to behalf of her school of the Australian Rainforest Foundation. save the cassowary

14 DRY SEASON 2002 AWARD Recipients

DR ROSEMARY HILL

An outspoken leader of the conservation movement, respected researcher and academic, Rosemary Hill has an enduring passion for north Queensland’s rainforests. Back in the 1970’s when most people thought rainforest was only good for its timber, Rosemary was ahead of her time in recognising its global importance. She and other conservation activists lobbied politicians and the media, ran community education programs and, when necessary, stood in front of bulldozers to stop logging. Rosemary’s determination paid off, playing a major part in World Heritage listing. Since then, Rosemary has continued her interest in World Heritage management and has worked tirelessly on many committees to ensure its ongoing protection. She serves as a member of the Board of the Australian Conservation Foundation, Australia’s leading ABOVE: Dr Rosemary Hill accepts her award from the national environment group. Her PhD collaboration with people about fire Queensland Minister for Environment Dean Wells and management practices shows she’s still one step ahead in recognising the role of Federal Parliamentary Secretary Dr Sharman Stone Rainforest Aboriginal people in World Heritage management.

GEORGE DAVIS

George is from the Malanbarra-Yidinjy clan group and grew up SALLY DRIML in the traditional way under the guidance of his grandfather. He went on to spend the next 50 years travelling all over north In the early 1980’s Sally graduated as an Queensland’s rainforests cutting timber. environmental economist. Not long after Since retiring in Atherton, he has dedicated his time to his graduation, the Federal Government seconded cultural heritage as both an artist and educator. Sally from her job in Townsville to undertake a He is widely respected in the Aboriginal community for his comprehensive analysis of the future of our skill in making traditional artefacts such as shields, dilly bags and regional economy prior to World Heritage Area boomerangs. listing. George is committed to community education and visits local After assessing the job opportunities for schools and other centres to talk about his culture and share displaced workers, Sally needed to convince the stories about the country he loves. He is also the author of the politicians in Canberra that considerable book “The Mullunburra People of the ”. compensation should be given to our area. As a result of her study she had come to LEFT: George’s grandson Brodie Clubb, understand the relationship of our environment, accepted the award on his behalf its people and industries. Her dedication to the area was illustrated when she HAZEL DOUGLAS decided to research, unpaid, for a number of years the Over 400,000 people visit the Daintree Coast relationship between each year, and a small percentage of these are environmental protection and lucky enough to have Hazel Douglas as their the economic health of a guide. community. Hazel’s award winning company, Native Guide Safaris, is an excellent role model of Indigenous tourism. As a traditional owner and member of the Yalanji people, Hazel is highly qualified to introduce visitors to the rainforest and beaches where she grew up. Hazel teaches guests from all over the world about customary bush foods and medicines, and gives them an authentic cultural experience in the rainforest. But perhaps her greatest gift to visitors is her generosity in sharing her spiritual connection with the land. It is this generosity of spirit which has ABOVE: Sally speaks about her experiences made Hazel an outstanding ambassador of tourism ABOVE: Hazel Douglas during as an environmental economist in Tropical North Queensland. her acceptance speech

15 A USTRALIA’S TROPICAL RAINFORESTS WORLD HERITAGE Welcome to Australia’s Tropical Rainforests World Heritage NEW year and a new symbol for our World The frog in our logo symbolises more than 100 Heritage Area. Australia’s Tropical animal species, which are rare or endangered – from A Rainforests World Heritage frog and leaf logo the giant flightless cassowary to tiny butterflies. now lets you know you are in a World The leaf symbolises over 3,000 plant Heritage Area. species found here – the greatest diversity The new logo is a result of of plants on the Australian . the Nature Based Tourism Over 460 of these plant species are Strategy produced by the considered rare or threatened. They are Wet Tropics Management a living record of the evolution of Authority (WTMA). plants on earth. The simple ferns, the The strategy aims to primitive cycads and pines which were create a partnership the precursors of flowering plants, and between WTMA and the overwhelming profusion of plants the tourism industry to and trees which can be seen in accurately reflect World these World Heritage listed Heritage Area values to forests today. visitors. Extensive The white keyline around the consultation was frog on our logo design is also intended as a vivid undertaken with tourism operators, Queensland Parks reminder of the cultural heritage of more than 20 and Wildlife Service, the conservation sector and Aboriginal tribal groups who are recognised as the Aboriginal groups to decide on the frog logo above. traditional owners of Australia’s Tropical Rainforests Around the world, tropical rainforests are under World Heritage. The forest forms a diverse set of living threat from human pressure. Here in Australia’s cultural landscapes, their natural features Tropical Rainforests, our rare animals and plants are no interconnected with Aboriginal religion and spirituality. exception. Our frogs – a sign of environmental health – The frog and leaf will replace the existing cassowary are disappearing. Six species are declining rapidly and and cycad leaf on road signs and tourist brochures in another has disappeared, presumed extinct. the World Heritage Area, so keep an eye out for it. WTMA will retain the cassowary and leaf as its corporate logo.

ROADSIDE VICTIMS If you find wildlife injured beside the road, who are you going to call? There are dedicated wildlife carers throughout northern Queensland. Before you phone the numbers below, get a precise Look Good, Feel Good location of the animal. If you are in a remote area and have some wildlife handling experience, you may decide to pick up the AVEyou been to animal and take it to the nearest wildlife carer. a Wet Tropics Approach injured and distressed animals with caution. Normally HVisitor Centre or shy wallabies have a nasty kick and bite if they are in pain. Often visited our World the best thing to do is approach animals from behind and throw Heritage listed a towel over them. If the animal is cold and wet, the towel will rainforests? Been there, soak up some moisture and trap their body heat. Many wildlife done that – but have you got the T-shirt? carers keep an emergency towel, pillowcase and cardboard box in their cars for this purpose. Keep the animal in a darkened, quiet Visitors to the World environment (not the boot of the car) and keep Heritage Area can children and family pets away from the animal. purchase Wet Tropics merchandise as worn by Phone contacts for wildlife carers staff and volunteers of Wet Tropics Visitor Centres throughout Australia’s Tropical Rainforests World Heritage Area. •Cairns Area • Daintree Coast Area (07) 4053 4467 (07) 4098 9236 Wet Tropics shirts and caps are made in Cairns by Marlin Sportswear and a/h 0407 962 075 ph/fax 4098 9079 are now available at up to 30% off at Wet Tropics Visitor Centres.As well as 0428 736 029 the shirts pictured above, there are frog T-shirts in adult and child sizes and •Tablelands Area platypus T-shirts just for the kids. (07) 4094 2030 •Townsville Area (07) 4092 2359 (07) 0414-717374 While you look good you can also feel good because a percentage of each sale goes towards the management of our World Heritage Area.

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