BEECHMONT ROAD INTEGRIFOLIA TRANSLOCATION SITE :

MONITORING AND EVALUATION PROGRESS REPORT 2016-2017

Prepared By Bush Nuts Native Nursery February 2017

BEECHMONT ROAD TRANSLOCATION PROJECT February 2017

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ...... 4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ...... 4 Site Description ...... 4 Project Start ...... 5 MILESTONES ...... 5 Project Milestones ...... 5 Specific Milestones for the current reporting period ...... 5 WEED CONTROL ...... 6 WEED TREATMENT TECHNIQUES ADOPTED ...... 6 Herbicide Application ...... 6 Foliar Application: ...... 6 Cut stump or cut and paste application: ...... 6 SUPPLEMENTARY PLANTING AREAS ...... 6 Planting Area 1 ...... 7 Planting Area 2 ...... 8 Planting Area 3 ...... 8 Planting Area 4 ...... 9 Planting Area 5 ...... 9 Planting Area 6 ...... 10 RAINFALL DATA ...... 11 RESULTS ...... 13 WEED CONTROL RECORD ...... 13 SUCCESS OF PLANTED SPECIES ...... 13 Success Rate of Macadamia integrifolia ...... 13 Success Rate of Cupaniopsis newmanii ...... 14 Success Rate of Co-occurring Species ...... 15 PHOTO POINT MONITORING ...... 15 DISCUSSION ...... 28 RECOMMENDATIONS AND ADAPTATIONS ...... 29 REFERENCES ...... 30 APPENDIX 1: SUCCESS RATE OF MACADAMIA PLANTINGS ...... 31 APPENDIX 2: BEECHMONT ROAD TRANSLOCATION SITE WEED SPECIES LIST ...... 34

List of Tables Table 1: Laheys Lookout Alert rainfall data (BOM 2016a) ...... 11 Table 2: Hinze Dam rainfall data (BOM 2016b) ...... 11 Table 3: Tyungun Alert rainfall data (BOM 2016c) ...... 12 Table 4: Canungra Finch Road rainfall data (BOM 2016d)...... 12

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Table 5: Weed Control Data Record ...... 13 Table 6: Monitoring Quadrat PP1 ...... 16 Table 7: Monitoring Quadrat PP2 ...... 18 Table 8: Monitoring Quadrat PP3 ...... 19 Table 9: Monitoring Quadrat PP4 ...... 21 Table 10: Monitoring Quadrat PP5 ...... 24 Table 11: Monitoring Quadrat PP6 ...... 26

List of Figures Figure 1: Overall site boundary ...... 7 Figure 2: Planting Area 1 Location ...... 7 Figure 3: Planting Area 2 Location ...... 8 Figure 4: Planting Area 3 Location ...... 8 Figure 5: Planting Area 4 Location ...... 9 Figure 6: Planting Area 5 Location ...... 9 Figure 7: Planting Area 6 Location ...... 10 Figure 8: Macadamia integrifolia - ...... 14 Figure 9: Cupaniopsis newmanii – ...... 15 Figure 10: Photo Point 1 – ...... 17 Figure 11: Photo Point 2 – ...... 19 Figure 12: Photo Point 3 – ...... 21 Figure 13: Photo Point 4 – ...... 23 Figure 14: Photo Point 5 – ...... 25 Figure 15: Photo Point 6 – ...... 27

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INTRODUCTION

In 2011 the Department of Transport and Main Roads South Coast Region prepared the Beechmont Road Macadamia integrifolia and Cupaniopsis newmanii Translocation and Ecosystem Rehabilitation Plan (Reynolds 2011). This plan identified 23 mature and six (6) juvenile nut ( Macadamia integrifolia ) and 37 mature and 22 juvenile long leaved tuckeroo ( Cupaniopsis newmanii ) that would be impacted upon for road safety improvements on Beechmont Road, Lower Beechmont.

The objective of the translocation plan is to establish, over a five-year period from the commencement of the project, a vegetation community offsetting the loss of affected threatened and least concern species. This offset planting will contain no less than 102 Macadamia integrifolia, and 177 of Cupaniopsis newmanii that were propagated from seed and cuttings taken from the plants on the ‘road improvement’ site.

Achieving this plan will support the conservation of wild Queensland nut (Macadamia integrifolia ) and long leaved tuckeroo ( Cupaniopsis newmanii ) by establishing and maintaining a self- sustaining, coexisting population that has the capacity to survive on the offset site.

The plan aims to fulfill the requirements for offsetting a vulnerable species as listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and the Nature Conservation Act 1992.

As part of this project, the Department of Transport and Main Roads has engaged Bush Nuts Native Nursery, under contract, to implement and rehabilitate 3.24 hectares of M. integrifolia and C. newmanni habitat.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SITE DESCRIPTION

Aerial photography suggested that 40% (12,232m 2) of the 30,240m2 translocation site was dominated by the weed lantana ( Lantana camara) with the remaining area containing emergent native species associated with Regional Ecosystem 12.8.3 and 12.8.8. The site was mostly impenetrable with dense thickets of L. camara preventing access. Vegetation on the translocation site consisted of species associated with RE 12.8.3 and 12.8.8 and large patches of L. camara .

The translocation site is located directly opposite the impact site and contains numerous individuals of Macadamia integrifolia, and hybrids between the two species, in association with Cupaniopsis newmanii. This area has been recognized as a hybrid zone between the two species of Macadamia. This was identified during the collection phase, noted from parent material collected for cutting propagation by Hidden Valley Nursery. Therefore planted material will represent both M. integrifolia and hybrid plants.

Matching geology and vegetation between the translocation site and immediate areas supports the assertion that the translocation site is highly suitable habitat for both of the species proposed for translocation.

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The translocation site is situated on land owned by the Commonwealth Department of Defense and forms part of the Canungra Field Training Area (CFTA). This parcel of land is located on freehold properties (Lot Plan: 97WD841; Lot Plan: 1RP124843) (See Figure 1).

The site is comprised of olivine soils with basalt scree and boulders, likely to be derived from volcanic activity associated with the Lamington Group of that formed as a result of the Tweed Volcano activity approximately 23 million years ago (Gold Coast City Council 2010).

PROJECT START 6th August 2012

MILESTONES

PROJECT MILESTONES

Within the Beechmont Road Macadamia integrifolia and Cupaniopsis newmanii Translocation Plan, project Milestones were defined and objectives were outlined which form the basis of the long-term management strategy for the site. These objectives and milestones include;

• Defining the site boundary • Managing and reducing weed threats • Locating threatened species • Minimising the introduction of new weed species • Minimising the introduction of pathogens and controlling any pathogen threats e.g. myrtle rust • Minimising the potential for erosion and managing erosion threats. • Revegetating with propagated M. integrifolia, C. newmanii and co-occurring species associated with the regional ecosystem • Observing the planted M. integrifolia plants to be successfully reproducing

SPECIFIC MILESTONES FOR THE CURRENT REPORTING PERIOD

1. Lantana camara is having no impact on the growth and development of the Macadamia integrifolia cuttings or the regeneration of the site to native flora species. 2. Evidence of natural recruitment of local native species observed and regenerating plants are developing canopies. 3. 80% or more success of the planted Macadamia integrifolia and Cupaniopsis newmanii is recorded. 4. All Macadamia integrifolia are establishing into small trees 5. >10% of Macadamia integrifolia trees have evidence of reproductive capabilities. Flowers and production of nuts is evident. 6. All labels are visible and maintained. 7. 50% or more success of the planted co-occurring species is recorded 8. No new weed infestation is recorded and the site is observed to be under active management . 9. 63 Months Critical The fifth annual monitoring report as detailed in The Plan and Conditions of Approval was prepared, submitted and accepted

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WEED CONTROL

WEED TREATMENT TECHNIQUES ADOPTED As the native canopy has become more dense with each passing year the extent of weed infestation has reduced. Manual removal of weeds is now an effective approach and has been used in partnership with the chemical techniques outlined below.

Herbicide Application

Lantana camara and many of the broad-leaf weeds and vines on the site are receptive to Glyphosate 360 and Metsulfuron Methyl. These chemicals are affective and economical and produce a good environmental outcome. These chemicals are being used on site by the following application techniques.

Foliar application:

The main approach to treatment of herbaceous weeds and germinating weed vine and weed tree species has been foliar application of herbicide. As a result of lower quantities of chemical being employed onsite, Metsulfuron Methyl (MM) has been included into the regular chemical spray composition. MM aides in the treatment of many weed species including larger Giant Devils Fig ( Solanum chrysotrichum ), Climbing Nightshade ( Solanum seaforthianum ), Camphor Laurel ( Cinnamomum camphora ), White Passionfruit ( Passiflora subpeltata ) and some of the aggressive native vines including Cissus antarctica, Cissus hypoglauca and Cayratia clematidea . The main mix of chemicals and water used for foliar application has been as follows:

Active Chemicals: Glyphosate 360 @ 15ml/L Metsulfuron Methyl @ 1.5g/10L Surfactant: Prosil @ 2ml/L Dye: HerbiBlu @6mL/L

Cut stump or cut and paste application:

For the treatment of larger woody weeds or vines, a cut stump or cut and paste technique has been used with the following chemical mix;

Glyphosate 360 mixed at a ratio of 1:1 with water

SUPPLEMENTARY PLANTING AREAS

Removal of Lantana camara and other invasive weed species from the site created open planting areas throughout the site. In total 6 areas were identified and have been planted. These areas were chosen based on a number of factors including the density of surface rock and the extent of natural native recruitment.

Planting works began in March 2013, and a full description of the initial 12-week plant establishment period is outlined in Beechmont Road Macadamia integrifolia and Cupaniopsis newmanii Translocation and Ecosystem Rehabilitation: 12 Week Planting Monitoring Report June 2013 . Below is a brief description of the planting areas.

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Figure 1: Overall site boundary

PLANTING AREAS

Planting Area 1

Location: Between B15, B13, B11 and B8 (Figure 2) Size: approx. 3023m 2 Planted: From 12 th March to 15 th April 2013 Description: Good planting soil throughout with some surface rock. More rock and boulders are present on upper slopes. Some modified rock structures in middle of area that were unable to be planted. Lantana breaking down nicely and easily planted.

Figure 2: Planting Area 1 Location

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Planting Area 2

Location: Between B8 and B7 (Figure 3) Size: approx. 1186m 2 Planted: From 3 rd 15 th April 2013 Description: Reasonable planting area, with some areas of thicker surface rock and boulders. Some areas of good natural regeneration avoided. Lantana breaking down nicely and easily planted into.

Figure 3: Planting Area 2 Location

Planting Area 3

Location: Around B6 (Figure 4) Size: approx. 1004m 2 Planted: From 5 th to 15 th April 2013 Description: Lower areas reasonable planting with some rock throughout. Higher slopes, particularly above old dam, very rocky and unable to be planted.

Figure 4: Planting Area 3 Location

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Planting Area 4

Location: Near B5 (Figure 5) Size: 150m 2 Planted: From 5 th to 15 th April 2013 Description: Flat area just downstream from old dam. Reasonable planting with surface rock throughout. Lantana breaking down nicely.

Figure 5: Planting Area 4 Location

Planting Area 5

Location: Around B4 (Figure 6) Size: 1697m 2 Planted: 7th March 2013 Description: Reasonable planting on lower benches but rocky throughout. Upper slopes rocky with boulders. Some areas had too much surface rock and were avoided. Lantana mostly dead and easy to plant into.

Figure 6: Planting Area 5 Location

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Planting Area 6

Location: Between B3 and B2 (Figure 7) Size: approx. 3150m 2 Planted: 4th , 5 th 7th March 2013 Description: Reasonable planting on lower bench but rocky throughout. Upper slopes rocky with boulders. Some areas were avoided due to surface rock. Lantana stems were still a little green and more difficult to work with. Hardest to access of areas, so planted first to capture best rain opportunities.

Figure 7: Planting Area 6 Location

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RAINFALL DATA

Overall rainfall was a little lower during this reporting period relative to both the previous reporting period and the mean annual rainfall. Significant rainfall in July set up a good winter growth cycle extending into early spring. Since October 2016 monthly rainfall totals have generally been lower than normal. However despite these lower rainfall levels there has been sufficient rainfall month to month to maintain the vegetation in a healthy condition throughout the year. High temperatures throughout January have encouraged vegetation growth.

There is no rainfall data available at Lower Beechmont itself. However the following rainfall data was recorded in 4 nearby Bureau of Meteorology weather stations (See Tables 1, 2, 3 & 4):

Table 1: Laheys Lookout Alert rainfall data (BOM 2015a)

Name: Laheys Lookout Alert Location: S 28.00 0 Elevation: 549m E 153.18 0 Year 2016 2016 Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total mm 105 61 142 4 19 327 20 55 73 31 25 87 949

Table 2: Hinze Dam rainfall data (BOM 2015b)

Name: Hinze Dam Location: S 28.05 0 Elevation: 111m E 153.29 0 Year 2016 2016 Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total mm 160 32 164 20.8 20.2 308 15 71.4 44 49 30.2 n/a n/a

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Table 3: Tyungun Alert rainfall data (BOM 2015c)

Name: Tyungun Alert Location: S 28.09 0 Elevation: 200m E 153.16 0 Year 2016 2016 Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total mm 148 48 126 8 16 254 24 72 71 42 39 90 938

Table 4: Canungra Finch Road rainfall data (BOM 2015d)

Name: Canungra Finch Rd Location: S 28.01 0 Elevation: 100m E 153.17 0 Year 2016 2016 Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total mm 114 64 145 13 27 294 25.4 66.2 83.4 57 45 120 1054

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RESULTS

WEED CONTROL RECORD

Weed control activities have been undertaken since the commencement of the project. Weed regrowth has been successfully controlled by undertaking regular site visits involving hand weeding, cut and paste and spray applications. During the earlier ‘establishment’ phase, there was a more intense targeted weed control program in the planting areas which helped to reduce competition for nutrients and encouraged faster plant growth. The following table compares chemical usage for weed control on the site over the past 3 years (Table 5).

Table 5: Weed Control Data Record

Period Glyphosate Metsulfuron Prosil (ml) Water (L) 360 (ml) Methyl (g) 12 month totals Mar 2014-Feb 2015 12, 300 75 1,000 509 12 months total s Mar 2015-Feb 2016 4,370 18.7 430 191.2 12 months totals Mar 2016-Feb 2017 2,600 25.5 300 170.1

Metsulphuron Methyl has been included more frequently as part of the chemical mix over the past 12 months to assist with eradication of some of the more difficult weeds. Overall however chemical application quantities have been reduced. A full list of the weeds found on the site can be found in Appendix 2.

SUCCESS OF PLANTED SPECIES

Success Rate of Macadamia integrifolia

Variation at time of planting -There was quite a noticeable variation in the condition and size of the M. integrifolia plants at the time of planting in 2012. Although most were healthy many of the last 15 specimens planted were quite small and stunted. All of the plants were grown from cuttings. This variation was still evident at completion of the 12 week establishment period on 25 th June 2013.

Labelling -Macadamia integrifolia plants were labelled based on the code system that was used by the supply nursery. This corresponds to the source plants (donors) taken from the impact site (donor site). Each individual that was planted on site was tagged using a metal tag with the code inscribed. In addition each plant was flagged using orange flagging tape to distinguish it from the co-occurring species that were tagged with pink flagging tape. The plants were also GPS located with the code. As there were many individuals with the same parent, labels were extended based on the sequence of when each individual was planted. For example, if the production nursery code for all plants derived from a particular tree was MRMT 7, then the first individual planted was assigned MRMT 7(1), the second individual planted MRMT 7(2), and so on.

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Establishment phase -The planted M. integrifolia plants fared well through the establishment period. With frequent maintenance visits, good soil moisture content, mild conditions and follow up rain events, there was only one recorded death of a planted M. integrifolia during the establishment period

Current status -At the time of the assessment in January 2017, 92 M. integrifolia individuals were recorded as alive, healthy, and growing well. This exceeds the benchmark milestone 80% survival rate. One weaker individual died during the year while another, which was not found during last year’s survey, was found. See Figure 8 for a visual interpretation of the growth rates of M. integrifolia.

Low numbers of M. integrifolia were observed to flower this year, probably < 5%, whilst 2 specimens were observed with fruit. It is likely that more individuals flowered and the flowers were not seen. Young trees often set only 1 or two flower heads which are hard to see amongst the foliage.

All labels continue to be visible and maintained, and the copper wire has been loosened where appropriate to allow for growth. The full breakdown of M. integrifolia success and growth rates is shown in Appendix 1.

Figure 8: Macadamia integrifolia-

From left to right: 30/01/2014 - MRMT 21(3) - height 930mm (initial height 640mm); 12/01/2016 - MRMT 9 (3) is the first planted tree to produce flowers and fruit; 23/01/2017 - MRMT 3 (5) – height 3800mm with a single hard to see fruit.

Success Rate of Cupaniopsis newmanii

The planted C. newmanii showed equally strong results during the establishment phase. During the maintenance phase the C. newmanii have continued to show good signs of active new growth on most of the plants.

As with the M. integrifolia, C. newmanii individuals were flagged with orange tape instead of pink to help find them within the planting. These plants however were not labelled with the metal tags or GPS located.

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Growth rates of C. newmanii continued to be very good during 2016 with several flowering during the year. The survival rate for planted individuals of C. newmanii continues to be very high and is still estimated at approximately 90%.

Figure 9: Cupaniopsis newmanii –

Left -one individual Jan 2014; Right - Jan 2017 one individual now part of the sub canopy

Success Rate of Co-occurring Species

A comparison of last year’s and this year’s photo point quadrat assessments shows almost no difference in the number of co-occurring species present. Survival rate of the co-occurring species is estimated at greater than 80%. As some of the planted species are also germinating naturally on the site it is becoming more difficult in some cases to distinguish which is which.

Growth rates of co-occurring species, although sometimes significantly different for different species and for individuals in any specific species, has generally been in line with growth rates seen for M. integrifolia and C. newmanii .

PHOTO POINT MONITORING

Ecosystem rehabilitation progress for each photo point monitoring quadrat is presented in Tables 6-11. A visual interpretation of ecosystem rehabilitation progress is shown at each photo point monitoring site in Figures 10-15.

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Table 6: Monitoring Quadrat PP1

Monitoring Quadrats Native Regeneration Planted Species Weed Species Present Present Present (seedlings) Name: PP1 Alphitonia excelsa Auranticarpa Solanum rhombifolia seaforthianum Date: 23/01/17 Calochlaena dubia Castanospermum australe Location: S 28.05606 Eucalyptus grandis Cryptocarya microneura E 153.24115 Glochidion ferdinandi Cupaniopsis newmanii General: (3) Near boundary peg B11 at northern extent of site Homalanthus nutans Dysoxylum mollissimum subsp. Molle Description Macaranga tanarius Eucalyptus grandis Lantana camara weed coverage: 0% Lantana presence: 0% Melia azedarach Ficus fraseri Weed coverage abundance: <1% Oplismenus sp. Glochidion ferdinandii Vegetation cover approx. 75% (Regen 40%-Planted 35%) Pandorea pandorana robusta Far northern extent of site with mature trees on the northern and western sides. Some shading during cooler months. Quadrat still has a Pipturus argentea Guoia semiglauca (2) little mulch coverage of old Lantana stems which is augmented with Rubus rosifolius var. Macadamia integrifolia leaf litter. rosifolius (2) Stephania japonica var. Neolitsea dealbata Cupaniopsis newmanii x 3. Heights 2700mm, 2500mm and discolor 2200mm Toona ciliata Podocarpus elatus (2)

Macadamia’s Rhodosphaera MRMT13(1) – healthy, height 3450mm (initial height 500mm) rhodanthema MRMT21(3) – healthy, height 2100mm (initial height 640mm)

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Figure 10: Photo Point 1

PP1 From left to right: 19 th December 2012; 9 th October 2013; 23 rd January 2017

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Table 7: Monitoring Quadrat PP2

Native Regeneration Planted Species Weed Species Present Present Present (seedlings) Acacia disparrima Alphitonia excelsa Aristolochia elegans Name: PP2 Aphananthe philippinensis Arytera divaricata Solanum chrysotrichum Date: 23/01/17 Calochlaena dubia Castanospermum australe Location: S 28.05617 Ficus fraseri Cryptocarya foetida E 153.24098 Harpulia pendula Cryptocarya microneura General: North-western part of site between B10-B11 Homalanthus nutans Cupaniopsis newmanii (3) Jagera pseudorhus Dysoxylum mollissimum subsp. Description Molle L. camara weed coverage: 0% Macadamia sp. Eucalyptus sp. L. camara presence: 0% Weed coverage abundance: <1% Macaranga tanarius Ficus fraseri Vegetation cover: approx. 75% (regen 45%, planted 30%, Myrsine variabilis Some existing canopy of Aphananthe philippinensis , and M. Pandorea baileyana Guoia semiglauca integrifolia trees. Naturally regenerating M. integrifolia and Harpulia pend ula saplings also present. Another small remnant Pipturus argentea Hymenosporum flavum within 10m from southern end of quadrat. Polyscias elegans Macadamia integrifolia (1) Cupaniopsis newmanii x 3. Heights 400mm, 900mm, 1800mm Rubus rosifolius var. Myrsine variabilis rosifolius Macadamia’s Stephania japonica Sarcopteryx stipata MRMT4(7) – healthy, height 2650mm (initial height 180mm) sinuatus Syzygium oleosum Toona ciliata

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Figure 11: Photo Point 2 –

PP2 From left to right: 19 th December 2012; 9 th October 2013; 23rd January 2017.

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Table 8: Monitoring Quadrat PP3

Native Regeneration Planted Species Weed Species Present Present Present (seedlings) Calochlaena dubia Alphitonia excelsa Solanum mauritianum Auranticarpa Eucalyptus grandis Senna pendula Name: PP3 rhombifolia Ficus fraseri Cryptocarya foetida Date: 23/01/2017 Cupaniopsis newmanii Homalanthus nutans (1) Location: S 28.05646 Jagera pseudorhus Diploglottis australis E 153.24104 General: Macaranga tanarius Dissiliaria baloghioides Centre of L. camara infestation in northern zone of site between Oplismenus sp. B9-B13 Pandorea baileyana Elaeocarpus obovatus

Description Pipturus argentea Eucalyptus grandis Rhodosphaera L. camara coverage: 0% Ficus fraseri L. camara presence: 0 rhodanthema Rubus rosifolius var. Weed coverage abundance: <1% Grevillea robusta Vegetation cover approx. 90% (regen 55%, planted 35%) rosifolius Located in centre of Planting Area 1. No emergent canopy species Toona ciliata Guoia semiglauca within 10m of quadrat boundaries Melia azedarach

Pararchidendron

pruinosum Stenocarpus sinuatus Sterculia quadrifida Toona ciliata

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Figure 12: Photo Point 3 –

PP3 From left to right: 19 th December 2012; 9 th October 2013; 23 rd January 2017.

Table 9: Monitoring Quadrat PP4

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Name: PP4 Native Regeneration Planted Species Weed Species Present Present Present (seedlings) Date: 23/01/17 Aphananthe philippinensis Ficus fraseri Ageratina riparia

Acacia sp. Guioa semiglauca Bidens pilosa Location: S 28.05649 E 153.24170 Calochlaena dubia Macadamia integrifolia Passiflora subpeltata General: (1) North-eastern corner of site near road and B15 Cayratia eurynema Melia azedarach Solanum chysotrichum Description Cissus antarctica Olea paniculata L. camara coverage: < 0% L. camara presence: 0% Diplocyclos palmatus Pouteria australis Weed coverage abundance: <1% Ficus fraseri Toona ciliata Vegetation cover approx. 35% (regen 25%, planted 10%) North-eastern corner of site, most elevated at 412m. Very corner Homalanthus nutans of the site with intact remnant canopy and native vegetation to the Macaranga tanarius north. Beechmont Road is within 10m to the east with some tree canopy intact. Sitting on a steeper slope grading from highest on Maclura cochinchinensis the roadside west down into the site with almost 100% of surface covered by boulders. Canopy consisting of Pipturus argenteus, Mallotus philippensis Mallotus philippinensis, Cryptocarya obovata and Alphitonia excelsa Pandorea baileyana

Macadamia’s Stephania japonica MT9(3) – healthy, height 2800mm (initial height 230 mm) Toona ciliata Special consideration Cayratia and Cissus vine has been managed but some remains in roadside canopy

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Figure 13: Photo Point 4 –

PP4 From left to right; 9 th October 2013; 30 th January 2014; 23 rd January 2017.

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Table 10: Monitoring Quadrat PP5

Native Regeneration Planted Species Weed Species Present Present Present Name: PP5 Acacia melanoxylon Auranticarpa Solanum rhombifolia seaforthianum Date: 23/01/2017 Acacia sp. Brachychiton acerifolius

Location: S 28.05922 Cissus antarctica Cordyline sp. E 153.23936 Cissus hypoglauca Cryptocarya microneura General: Geranium homeanum Cryptocarya obovata South-western corner of site near B3 Grevillea robusta Cupaniopsis newmanii Description (1) L. camara coverage: 0% Homalanthus nutans Diploglottis australis (2) Weed coverage abundance: <1% Legnephora moorei Macadamia integrifolia Vegetation cover approx. 90% (regen 70%, planted 20%) Macaranga tanarius Myrsine variabilis South-western part of site. Lower bench. Surface rock throughout. Situated on southern side of existing canopy. Remnant Pipturus Mallotus philippensis Neolitsea dealbata argenteus within 2m of southern edge of quadrat. Pandorea baileyana Podocarpus elatus

Pipturus argenteus Pouteria australis Macadamia’s MRMT6 (3) – healthy, height 2850mm (initial height 640mm) Polyscias elegans Rhodosphaera rhodanthema Special consideration Rhodosphaera Trema tomentosa Cissus vine management rhodanthema Rubus rosifolius Toona ciliata Trema tomentosa

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Figure 14: Photo Point 5 –

PP5 From left to right: 14 th February 2013; 9 th October 2013; 23rd January 2017

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Table 11: Monitoring Quadrat PP6

Native Regeneration Planted Species Present Weed Species Present Present Acacia melanoxylon. Stenocarpus sinuatus Solanum seaforthianum Name: PP6 Adiantum hispidulum Toona ciliata

Date: 23/01/2017 Callerya megasperma

Location: S 28.05913 Calochlaena dubia E 153.23970 Cissus antarctica General: In southern centre of site between B4 and B18 Commersonia bartramia Christella dentata Description L. camara coverage: 0% Diplocyclos palmatus Weed coverage abundance: <1% Homalanthus nutans Vegetation cover approx. 90% (regen 80%, Planted 10%) Elevated bench in southern area . Located centrally between Jagera pseudorhus western boundary and road. Slopes away downhill on the western side. Rocky throughout with some larger boulders. Remnant Macaranga tanarius canopy to the east (within 10m of eastern edge of quadrat) Mallotus philippensis dominated by Toona ciliata and small remnant to the west (within 10m of quadrat edge). Melia azedarach Pipturus argentea Toona ciliata

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Figure 15: Photo Point 6 –

PP6 From left to right: 14 th February 2013; 9 th October 2013; 23rd January 2017.

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DISCUSSION

Primary weed control works within the site during 2012 and 2013 were successful in preparing the planting areas for the introduction of the planted specimens of M. integrifolia, C. newmanii and a diverse selection of co-occurring species. The timing of the planting to suit weather conditions, regular maintenance and ongoing regular rainfall provided the best conditions for the plantings to establish through the first one and a half years.

At the time of compilation of the 2014 report, new growth was evident on nearly all installed plants and minimal mortality on the target species M. integrifolia and C. newmanii was observed.

The survival rate of installed M. integrifolia and C. newmanii over the 2016 year has continued to exceed 80% and these specimens are successfully growing into small trees. Ninety two (92) individuals of M. integrifolia were located at the survey in Jan 2016 and found to be growing successfully. More than 80% of the co-occurring species on the site have also been successful.

During the current reporting period, growth of installed plants has continued with the native companion and regeneration canopy height now 3-12 metres over most of the site (as measured Jan 2017). Across the site, an average of just over 500mm growth per planted M. integrifolia tree was recorded during the current reporting period. The variation in vertical growth was significant however, with some individuals growing close to a metre vertically while others as little as 200mm vertically. Again slower growth rates for all species have generally been observed in the steeper rockier locations on the site.

The practice of clearing vegetation from the immediate area around the M. integrifolia plants was continued on most visits during the year. This includes removal of all weed and native regeneration from the immediate surrounds and trimming of overhead branches and trees with a focus on the northern side. This will continue to be a priority of maintenance in future visits and is necessitated by substantial natural recruitment of fast growing pioneer species. Time dedicated to this is increasing as time spent maintaining the weedy biomass decreases. Alongside the control of germinating weed seedlings and aggressive native vines, this has been the primary focus during each follow-up maintenance run.

No new weed infestation has been recorded, with less than 1% weed coverage of the entire site. 100% of the original L. camara infestation has been treated and is under control with germinating seedlings being the only Lantana present. Herbicide application has reduced significantly on site as a reflection of the very clean condition of the understorey. The vine weeds Aristolochia elegans and Solanum seaforthiana continue to germinate on the site as does the very aggressive weed tree Solanum chrysotrichum.

There were no issues with plant diseases or insect pathogens during this reporting period.

A road reserve boundary on Beechmont Road of approximately 10-20m is outside the site boundary and is harbouring a diverse but reducing population of weed species. Several of the rural properties in the adjacent area are badly infested with weed species and these properties no doubt contribute to the continuing germination of weeds on the focus site.

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RECOMMENDATIONS AND ADAPTATIONS

Generally the recommendations are to continue with the successful practices currently employed on site, these to include the following:

• Manage aggressive native vines to prevent them from hindering the growth of planted and regenerating tree and shrub species, in particular M. integrifolia and C. newmanii . These vines include Cissus antarctica , Cissus hypoglauca and Cayratia sp.

• Continue with regular weed control maintenance visits to the site

• Manage the growth of regenerating fast growing native species, like Homalanthus and Macaranga , to prevent them from dominating the canopy and interfering with the growth of M. integrifolia and C. newmanii

• Consider ways of reducing the substantial source of weed seeds located immediately above the site within the road reserve and within adjacent properties

ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 2016-2017 29 BEECHMONT ROAD MACADAMIA INTEGRIFOLIA TRANSLOCATION PROJECT February 2017

REFERENCES

Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group (2005) Subtropical Rainforest Restoration - a practical management and data source for Landcare Groups, Land Managers and Rainforest Regenerators - 2ND EDITION . Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group. , NSW

Bureau of Meteorology (2016a) Monthly rainfall data Laheys Lookout Alert. January 2016 from http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=139&p_display_type=dat aFile&p_stn_num=040930

Bureau of Meteorology (2016b) Monthly rainfall data Beechmont Alert. December 2015 from, http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=139&p_display_type=dat aFile&p_stn_num=040584

Bureau of Meteorology (2016c) Monthly rainfall data Tyungun Alert. January 2016 from, http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=139&p_display_type=dat aFile&p_stn_num=040376

Bureau of Meteorology (2016d) Monthly rainfall data Canungra Finch Road Alert. January 2016 from, http://www.bom.gov.au/jsp/ncc/cdio/weatherData/av?p_nccObsCode=139&p_display_type=dat aFile&p_stn_num=040042

Chenoweth EPLA and Bushland Restoration Services (2012) South East Queensland Ecological Restoration Framework: Manual . Prepared on behalf of SEQ Catchments and South East Queensland Local Governments, Brisbane.

Harden, G., McDonald, B. and Williams, J. (2006) Rainforest Trees and Shrubs: A field guide to their identification . Gwen Harden Publishing. Nambucca Heads, NSW

Harden, G., McDonald, B. and Williams, J. (2007) Rainforest Climbing Plants: A field guide to their identification . Gwen Harden Publishing. Nambucca Heads, NSW

Leiper, G., Glazebrook, J., Cox, D. & Rathie, K. (2008) Mangroves to Mountains - revised edition . SGAP - Logan River Branch. Lower Beechmont Mount Nathan Conservation Reserves Management Plan October 2010 . Gold Coast City Council

Reynolds, B.T. (2011 ) Beechmont Road Macadamia integrifolia and Cupaniopsis newmanii Translocation and Ecosystem Rehabilitation Plan (v.3) . Report prepared for the Department of Transport and Main Roads. January 2011. Project: 230/2020/1. Greening Qld. http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/~/media/Projects/B/Beechmont%20Road%20Upgrade%20Lower%20Be echmont/beechmontrdtranslocationplan0111.pdf

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Appendix 1: Success Rate of Macadamia plantings Heights shown in table are in millimetres Height June Height Height Jan Height Jan Plant Name Planting date 2013 Feb/Mar 2015 2016 2017 MRMT 1(1) 5/3/2013 340 1550 1950 2600 MRMT 12(1) 5/3/2013 410 1700 1850 2500 MRMT 15(1) 5/3/2013 540 Not Found Not Found MRMT 15(2) 5/3/2013 570 1450 1700 2600 MRMT 19(1) 5/3/2013 360 1000 1200 1450 MRMT 19(2) 5/3/2013 360 1000 1200 1600 MRMT 2(1) 5/3/2013 360 600 1000 1200 MRMT 21(1) 5/3/2013 500 1400 1650 1800 MRMT 22(1) 5/3/2013 560 1300 1800 2600 MRMT 22(2) 5/3/2013 310 1200 1750 1950 MRMT 3(1) 5/3/2013 470 1100 1150 1700 MRMT 4(1) 5/3/2013 500 1350 1600 2150 MRMT 6(1) 5/3/2013 520 1150 1900 2700 MRMT 6(2) 5/3/2013 470 1000 1300 2050 MRMT 6(3) 5/3/2013 640 1250 1850 2850 MRMT 7(1) 5/3/2013 440 1300 1950 2250 MRMT 7(2) 5/3/2013 550 1350 1950 2200 MRMT 7(3) 5/3/2013 500 Not Found MRMT 7(4) 5/3/2013 350 1500 2250 2800 MRMT 7(5) 5/3/2013 550 1600 2100 2850 MRMT 9(1) 5/3/2013 430 1150 1800 2150 MRMT 9(2) 5/3/2013 500 Not Found MRMT 13(1) 14/3/2013 500 1600 2400 3450 MRMT 15(3) 14/3/2013 440 1800 2250 2650 MRMT 15(4) 14/3/2013 540 1200 1600 1800 MRMT 18(1) 14/3/2013 450 1600 1950 3050 MRMT 18(2) 14/3/2013 480 1100 1500 2050 MRMT 18(3) 14/3/2013 540 1400 2200 2800 MRMT 2(2) 14/3/2013 500 800 850 1000 MRMT 2(3) 14/3/2013 600 Dead MRMT 20(1) 14/3/2013 510 1300 1950 2600 MRMT 21(2) 14/3/2013 430 1250 1700 2200 MRMT 21(3) 14/3/2013 640 1350 1700 2100 MRMT 22(3) 14/3/2013 670 1450 2150 2450 MRMT 22(4) 14/3/2013 540 1800 2750 3300 MRMT 22(5) 14/3/2013 720 1400 2050 2600 MRMT 22(6) 14/3/2013 630 1200 1850 2300 MRMT 22(7) 14/3/2013 720 1400 2300 3400 MRMT 24(1) 14/3/2013 520 1100 1650 1900 MRMT 3(2) 14/3/2013 620 Not Found MRMT 3(3) 14/3/2013 600 850 1800 1950 MRMT 4(2) 14/3/2013 590 1000 1200 1700 MRMT 4(3) 14/3/2013 700 Dead

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Height June Height Height Jan Height Jan Plant Name Planting date 2013 Feb/Mar 2015 2016 2017 MRMT 4(4) 14/3/2013 570 1350 2800 3750 MRMT 4(5) 14/3/2013 630 Not Found MRMT 6(4) 14/3/2013 490 700 1450 2950 MRMT 9(3) 14/3/2013 620 1700 2100 2100 MRMT 9(4) 14/3/2013 520 1500 2150 2800 MRMT 9(5) 14/3/2013 940 1300 2100 2900 Mature 1900-planted MRMT 9(6) 14/3/2013 560 1400 Tree only tree refound found MRMT 15(5) 5/4/2013 550 400 2200 3000 MRMT 15(6) 5/4/2013 410 750 1000 1300 MRMT 18(4) 5/4/2013 600 1500 1500 1700 MRMT 18(5) 5/4/2013 1000 1000 1400 MRMT 19(3) 5/4/2013 330 Not Found MRMT 19(4) 5/4/2013 440 800 1250 1600 MRMT 2(4) 5/4/2013 460 700 700 700 MRMT 20(2) 5/4/2013 470 1100 1600 2000 MRMT 20(3) 5/4/2013 370 Dead MRMT 20(4) 5/4/2013 380 800 1250 1400 MRMT 21(4) 5/4/2013 530 900 1100 1500 MRMT 21(5) 5/4/2013 450 1100 1400 1800 MRMT 21(6) 5/4/2013 480 Dead MRMT 22(10) 5/4/2013 1600 2150 2850 MRMT 22(8) 5/4/2013 1800 2150 1350 MRMT 22(9) 5/4/2013 540 1300 1550 2150 MRMT 23(1) 5/4/2013 300 800 1250 1800 MRMT 3(4) 5/4/2013 660 1350 1550 2150 MRMT 3(5) 5/4/2013 2300 3400 3800 MRMT 3(6) 5/4/2013 400 1900 2600 3900 MRMT 4(6) 5/4/2013 550 1800 1800 1800 MRMT 6(5) 5/4/2013 660 950 1500 2200 MRMT 7(6) 5/4/2013 Not Found MRMT 7(7) 5/4/2013 310 750 2150 2750 MRMT 8(1) 5/4/2013 340 Not Found MRMT 8(2) 5/4/2013 620 950 1500 2000 MRMT 9(7) 5/4/2013 510 600 1150 1850 MRMT 9(8) 5/4/2013 340 Dead MRMT 15(7) 25/6/2013 300 900 1600 2500 MRMT 15(8) 25/6/2013 560 1200 2350 2850 MRMT 18(6) 25/6/2013 320 Dead MRMT 19(5) 25/6/2013 300 Dead MRMT 2(5) 25/6/2013 500 900 1250 1400 MRMT 2(6) 25/6/2013 250 650 Dead 600 MRMT 20(5) 25/6/2013 410 550 600 1100 MRMT 22(10) 25/6/2013 410 1600 2200 2700 MRMT 22(11) 25/6/2013 390 350 550 1150

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Height June Height Height Jan Height Jan Plant Name Planting date 2013 Feb/Mar 2015 2016 2017 MRMT 22(12) 25/6/2013 280 Dead MRMT 22(13) 25/6/2013 280 950 1450 1550 MRMT 3(7) 25/6/2013 180 1000 1400 1800 MRMT 4(7) 25/6/2013 180 1700 2050 2650 MRMT 7(8) 25/6/2013 430 1550 2200 3000 MRMT 7(9) 25/6/2013 320 1400 1750 2000 MRMT 8 (5) 25/6/2013 360 350 400 550 MRMT 8(3) 25/6/2013 280 Dead MRMT 8(4) 25/6/2013 400 300 200 Dead MRMT 8(6) 25/6/2013 340 Dead MRMT 8(7) 25/6/2013 330 Dead MRMT 9(10) 25/6/2013 720 1150 1600 2000 MRMT 9(11) 25/6/2013 240 Dead MRMT 9(9) 25/6/2013 240 Not Found MS 10 25/6/2013 220 Not Found MS 50 25/6/2013 170 450 750 1350 MS 52 25/6/2013 210 250 400 550 MT 8 25/6/2013 300 800 1300 1800 MT 9(1) 25/6/2013 170 900 1150 1300 MT 9(2) 25/6/2013 200 800 1150 1500 MT 9(3) 25/6/2013 230 1000 1400 2800 MTS 1 25/6/2013 210 850 1300 2150 MTS 23 25/6/2013 220 400 500 1000 ? No Data No Data 1250 2500 3450 Gecko No Data No Data 1100 1300 1600 unknown # MRMT 4(7) 2nd plant with No Data No Data 400 Dead same number MRMT 7(1) No Data No Data 1650 3000 MRMT 9(13) No Data No Data 900 1100 1500 MRMT 9(14) No Data No Data 1250 1700 1900 MRMT23(2) No Data No Data 900 1400 2000

The listed in blue are those that were located on Feb 13 2015 but not recorded in original planting list.

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Appendix 2: Beechmont Road Translocation Site Weed Species List

Beechmont Rd Translocation Site Weed Species found on site as of Feb 2016 Family Genus Species Common Name ASTERACEAE Ageratina Adenophora Crofton Weed ASTERACEAE Ageratina Riparia Mist Flower ASTERACEAE Ageratum Houstonianum Blue Billygoat Weed PRIMULACEAE Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel APOCYNACEAE Araujia sericifera White Moth Plant ARISTOLOCHIACEAE Aristolochia elegans Dutchman's Pipe Red-head cotton APOCYNACEAE Asclepias curassavica bush ASTERACEAE Bidens pilosa Cobbler's Pegs ASTERACEAE Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane ASTERACEAE Crassocephalum crepidioides Thickhead APOCYNACEAE Gomphocarpus physocarpus Balloon Cotton Bush ASTERACEAE Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea cairica Blue Morning Glory VERBENACEAE Lantana camara Lantana OLEACEAE Ligustrum lucidum Large-leaved Privet POACEAE Melinis minutiflora Molasses Grass Corky Passion PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora suberosa Flower White Passion PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora subpeltata Flower SOLANACEAE Physalis angulata Wild Gooseberry SOLANACEAE Physalis peruviana Gooseberry PHYTOLACCACEAE Phytolacca octandra Inkweed CAESALPINIACEAE Senna pendula var. glabrata Smooth Senna MALVACEAE Sida rhombifolia Paddy’s lucerne ASTERACEAE Sigesbeckia orientalis Indian Weed SOLANACEAE Solanum americanum Glossy Nightshade SOLANACEAE Solanum chrysotrichum Giant Devil's Fig SOLANACEAE Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco Blackberry SOLANACEAE Solanum nigrum Nightshade SOLANACEAE Solanum seaforthianum Brazilian Nightshade

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