Tasmanian Regions SUMMER 2012

A quarterly magazine produced by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment EXCELLENT SERVICE COMPETITIVE PRICING HIGH QUALITY MASSIVE PRODUCTS FAST DELIVERY

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Publisher News and Features Columns Kim Evans The First Translocation of Devils Bureau of Meteorology Secretary on Maria Island 2 How the Indian Ocean affects Department of Primary Industries, DFTD: the story so far 4 Tasmania’s rainfall 28 Parks, Water and Environment GPO Box 44 Hobart TAS 7001 Milking a mateship for all its worth 5 Tasmanian Irrigation Irrigation in Tasmania: While the publisher attempts to ensure the 1962: The beginning of the end past, present and future 32 accuracy of the advertising and other for hydatids in Tasmania 8 information published in this magazine, it Weed Management Monumental tragedy inspires accepts no responsibility for the correctness Help save Tasmania’s coastline Queenstown 10 of that advertising and other information, from weeds 34 which is relied upon by readers at their One touch of Nature makes the own risk. whole world kin 13 Heritage Tasmania A lighthouse in a butter factory 36 Editor Fish for the future 16 Browsing Animal Management Simon de Salis Tasmania’s cat conundrum 18 Corporate Communications Branch Help needed with wallaby fence Department of Primary Industries, Flowers with beauty and personality 19 creek crossing designs 37 One of the great old fl orists’ fl owers 20 Parks, Water and Environment Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture GPO Box 44 Hobart TAS 7001 Taking Tasmania’s unique landscapes Value adding, clusters and Phone: 03 6233 6859 to the world 22 food hubs for growth 38 Email: [email protected] Marine debris deadly for seals 24 When fl avour is at a premium 39 Advertising Megan Farrer 0412 052 667 Keeping Tasmania’s maritime Biosecurity history alive 26 Improving Tasmania’s biosecurity system 40 Design and Production Beverly Waldie

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Volume 18 Issue 4 ISSN 1444-6065

Under the requirements of Tasmania’s privacy legislation, subscribers to Tasmanian Regions magazine should note that their name and address which they have provided to the 5 36 26 magazine may be used for future surveys Page number and about the magazine, but not for any other location of stories purpose. If anyone does not want to be contacted for any future magazine survey, 2. Maria Island please contact the Editor to have your name 5. Togari removed from the mailing list. 10 16 10. Queenstown 16. Swansea 19. Fern Tree 2 26. Low Head 19 36. Wynyard

Front cover photo: A young devil has its first look at its new home on Maria Island, where it was released into the www.tasmap.tas.gov.au wild as part of the effort to save the species from the deadly Devil Facial Tumour Disease.

Photographer: Simon de Salis Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment 2 |

Loading devils onto the Maria Island Ferry.

The First Translocation of Devils on Maria Island

“One small step for devils, one The Save the Tasmanian Devil Program has removed hundreds of healthy devils from the giant relief for the devil team!” wild and placed them in quarantine stations, o read a text from devil team member zoos, wildlife parks and natural free-range SPhil Wise, minutes before the first of 15 enclosures in an attempt to create a healthy Tasmanian devils was freed into the breeding and viable insurance population. It wilds of Maria Island last November as part currently numbers about 500 devils, of the program to save the species from the providing a source of animals for future deadly Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD). reintroductions in Tasmania and helping to secure the survival of the species. The successful release was the culmination of three years of careful planning and preparation The Maria Island release was a significant under the $480,000 Maria Island Translocation milestone for all involved in the Translocation Project, arguably Australia’s most ambitious Project, including staff from the Program, species translocation, which aims to establish Parks and Wildlife Service, and others from a population of up to 120 devils on the island. the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Another 35 DFTD-free devils will be let Water and Environment. It was the first of loose on Maria in the future to complete the several joint state-federal projects aimed at foundation of a breeding population. maintaining healthy devils in the wild, with plans also progressing to isolate healthy wild The 9000 ha island is a National Park and has insurance populations on the Tasman, never had devils. Most importantly it is free Forestier and Freycinet peninsulas, keeping of DFTD, a unique, highly contagious cancer out diseased devils with barriers. that spreads when devils bite one another whilst mating or fighting and is invariably fatal. The rationale of the projects is the need to The disease has spread across most of Tasmania, maintain the species in quarantine for an wiping out about 85 percent of wild devils, unknown time until the threat of the DFTD and experts fear that the iconic endemic is neutralized and devils can be reintroduced species, the world’s largest marsupial carnivore, into the wild. While captive populations are is on the brink of extinction. critical for maintaining the species in the Above two pics: Preparing devils for departure to Maria Island at the DPIPWE quarantine facility at Taroona. Story: Simon de Salis and Sarah Graham Pictures: Simon de Salis | 3

Loading devils at Darlington, Maria Island, for the trip to their release site. Photo: Sarah Graham Photo: Photo: Sarah Graham Photo:

breeding potential. They could not be too closely related. Most were young, one to two year old devils of both sexes but there were several three to four year old males because female devils prefer to mate with older males. Seven came from the Program’s captive management facility at Taroona, while the others came from the Tasmanian Free Range Enclosures – five from Freycinet and three from Bridport. In the preceding month, the selected devils underwent behavioural tests (to ensure their tendency to avoid humans) and were checked for pathogens and diseases. Five of the devils were also fitted with radio tracking collars so that their movement can be monitored remotely in the first few months after their release. In the week prior to their introduction to Maria Island, the selected devils received a special diet to eliminate internal parasites. They were also given a final health and biosecurity check on the morning of the release. The animals were transported in cylindrical plastic containers via open-backed vehicles Above two pics: Travelling deck class to Maria. and boat to the remote release site on Maria Island. They were grouped separately for the long-term, they do not maintain wild Above sequence: Releasing the devils onto Maria. release according to their captive origin so as behaviours and so may find release difficult. to provide a degree of familiarity and to help individual health and breeding status will be Devils kept in semi-wild conditions like Maria reduce stress immediately after they were collected via trapping, visual observations, Island and others roaming free in their natural set free. All were allowed to leave the remote cameras and radio-tracking. This will environment are more likely to retain the containers at their own will, undisturbed by help inform decisions regarding subsequent behaviours necessary to function humans. While most left quickly, a few remained devil releases, planned for next year. competently in the wild. Having a captive in their containers for longer; staying hidden Supplementary feeding of the devils will be population together with the semi-wild and motionless until evening. A few were undertaken if necessary. populations provides the means not only to spotted post release, rambling through the There has been concern from various preserve the species but also prepare them bracken and undergrowth, familiarising sources about negative impacts on other for reintroduction to the wild. themselves with their new environment. species on Maria Island, but 18 months of The 15 Maria Island pioneer animals were The establishment of the population on impact assessments as part of the project selected from the insurance population based Maria Island will be the subject of ongoing suggested there would be no significant on their genetic stock and behaviour, as well monitoring by the Program in coming impacts and devil numbers will be reduced if as their age, sex and breeding status to provide months. Information regarding their the on-going monitoring points to serious the best candidates for both survival and distribution and use of habitat, as well as problems. 4 |

was established with the vision of sustaining the species in the wild. Significant state and federal funding pledged. 2008 Devil numbers now down by 64per cent and DFTD was confirmed at 63 locations, including 35km north-west of Cradle Mountain. Program scientists discovered that DFTD was mutating in the wild and reported different strains of the transmissible cancer. The Tasmanian devil’s status was formally upgraded to Endangered. The Insurance Population was now a high priority for the Program and more than 70 devils had been sent to mainland wildlife parks to breed. The first free range enclosure (FRE) was built at East Coast Natureworld, with11 ha protected by a security fence. 2009 The devil population now down by more than 70per cent and DFTD confirmed further west. The mainland Insurance Population had increased to 145, three more FREs were planned and the FRE at Bicheno achieved breeding success. 2010 Devil numbers reported to have declined by 80per cent. Attempts over several years to suppress the disease showed no long term conservation benefit for wild DFTD: the story so far devils. The focus now shifted to strategies aimed at isolating and protecting healthy 1996 Tasmanian devils with large facial with the occurrence of DFTD although the wild populations on peninsulas and islands, tumours consistent with what is now known cause and means of spread of the disease including Maria Island. The mainland as Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) were was unknown. The Devil Facial Tumour Insurance Population had grown to nearly photographed in north-east Tasmania. Disease Program, a collaboration of wildlife 200 devils, the second FRE at Bridport was managers and research scientists completed and work continued on one on 2003 Sightings of devils declined by 41 per coordinated by the DPIPWE, was established Freycinet Peninsula. cent across the State according to annual to investigate the disease and identify 2011Devil numbers down by 84per cent spotlight surveys. The decline was associated management options. and by 94per cent in the north-east region, 2003-05 The Program commenced work on (the suspected point of origin of the disease) the Forestier Peninsula to monitor the and now confirmed west of the Murchison prevalence of DFTD and to test the Highway. Scientists proposed that the secret effectiveness of suppressing the disease in to the spread of DFTD lay in the tumour’s the wild by removing diseased devils. The first unique ability to hide from the devil’s steps were made to establish an Insurance immune system as well as the fact that devils Population of Tasmanian devils as a have a low genetic diversity. precaution against the species extinction with By now the Insurance Population was almost young devils removed from disease-free 500. A FRE of 22ha on the Freycinet Peninsula areas and quarantined. was completed, as was the feasibility study an 2006 DFTD confirmed in more than half of enclosure project at Woolnorth. the State, as far south as Geeveston and west 2012 Devil numbers continued to decline as Cradle Mountain. The Tasmanian and and DFTD was recorded at Mawbanna and Australian governments listed the Tasmanian at Zeehan. Genetic research revealed that devil as a vulnerable species. DFTD had first arisen in a female devil from DPIPWEscientists discovered that DFTD was the North East and that the tumour had an extremely rare form of cancer transmitted since diverged into multiple, distinct strains. by direct cell to cell transfer between animals. The Insurance Population exceeded 500 2007 Devil numbers reported to have devils with 98per cent genetic representation declined by 53 per cent. DFTD had spread – a goal achieved ahead of schedule – and across 60 per cent of the State, and was planning continued on a range of landscape confirmed at Narawntapu National Park. The isolation projects. The first translocation of Save the Tasmanian Devil Program (STDP) devils to Maria Island was also undertaken. Story and pictures: Simon de Salis | 5

Aaron and Matthew. Milking a mateship for all its worth When a couple of country kids talk about their dreams of running a multi-million dollar farm one day, that day is usually far away, but for two Circular Head 20-year-olds it is already beginning to materialise.

isher Ferguson Enterprises, aka childhood lacked and is matched by an enormous Fmates Matthew Fisher and Aaron Ferguson, passion for the industry. As teens both have taken a big step towards share farming dreamed of the chance to be dairy farmers arguably one of Australia’s best dairy farms, in their own right and when they travelled Pendulum Park at Togari, between Smithton together to Launceston as 18 year-olds to get and Marrawah. their gun licences, they talked about it all the The opportunity arose because Matthew’s way there and all the way back. parents Stephen and Karen, who have share- With milk prices dropping neither of them farmed Pendulum Park over the last eight years wanted to start small so discussed combining with remarkable success, decided to gradually resources and agreed that if the chance reduce their involvement at the same time the arose to take over a large enterprise they property changed ownership. The new owner, would go into partnership. The chance Jim Larby, was prepared to take a punt on the seemed as remote as the wild west coast two lads’ potential as long as Stephen and nearby but it did present, and much sooner Karen mentored them. They were happy to do so, much to the delight of Matthew and Aaron. than later. “That was nearly as crucial for us as it was for “After Mum and Dad told me their plans to Jim,” says Matthew. “Dad and Mum have reduce their involvement in the farm I done an exceptional job here and working bumped into Aaron at Woolies in Smithton under them will teach us a lot. Then if we and asked if he was still keen,” says Matthew. take over to have them on hand whenever Aaron was thrilled. “It’s the biggest we need them is really important.” opportunity ever,” he says. “To have the The involvement of the Fishers may boost chance on a farm of that scale and quality at Aaron and Karen their confidence, but it was a quality neither 20 years of age was amazing. We can set 6 |

kilograms a year when the Fishers took over in 2004; their success in improving it won them a swag of awards, including the Tasmanian, Australian and Trans-Tasman trophies at the 2008 Dairy Business of the Year Awards.) Matthew and Aaron say that current production level is at the farm’s optimum, and their aim would be to maintain it rather than increase it. “We believe we could do that because we will have Mum and Dad’s help as well as all the systems they put in place,” says Matthew. “And all our workers are staying on, which is great, because good labour is hard to find and can make or break you. “Reducing production costs is where we can increase our margins, and keeping up with The lads with Stephen. the science and technology is important for that. We’re both good with computers, which ourselves up for the future in under 10 years “I wouldn’t say it was exactly fun growing up have become a big part of farming. Its all if we pull it off.” on a dairy farm, but I didn’t dislike it and it about adaptation, efficiency and keeping up with the business, which is becoming more While both young men are full of enthusiasm does teach you to make your own fun,” says and more of a corporate model.” for their potential venture, they know what Aaron. Matthew says that lower production costs they are getting into. Matthew spent his Matthew agrees. “It’s a lot of hard work, but it will also enable them to ride out any teens living and helping out at Pendulum Park prepared us for this,” he says. while at school and then worked full time downturn in the dairy industry, and that they there afterwards. Aaron also grew up on his “This” is a lush, 283ha property with a herd of have the sage motto of “prepare for bad parents’ dairy farm at nearby Irishtown, 1000 milking cows and a 50 unit rotary dairy times and you will know only good ones.” helped out as a school kid and worked there which produces 470,000 kilograms of milk The partners have completed a business plan after leaving school at 16, the same age solids a year, an extraordinary return for a and are managing their enterprise with Matthew did. farm that size. (Production was 290,000 prudence. They hope to eventually sign a | 7

share farming agreement with Jim in their own right. If that happens they intend to return all money other than living expenses back into the business, with the goal of owning outright the entire herd after eight years: $1.5 million value at current prices. Not a bad potential payoff for a couple of blokes who would be yet to turn 30 and who started with nothing. Nonetheless, it will take plenty of sheer hard work, and both young men have already put in plenty of that during the latest calving season, four months in all weather of splitting shifts as long as 16 hours each to look after the birthing cows and their newborn offspring. This is Karen Fisher’s area of expertise and Aaron’s particular passion and she took him under her wing. She is impressed. “Aaron did a fantastic job with the calves, and is a real natural with a good eye for cattle,” she says. “Both boys are good with animals: they are really gentle. I think they will do fine with the farm.” Stephen Fisher agrees. “They’re very enthusiastic and passionate but they also have a clear idea of where they want to go with this and how to get there,” he says. “They have a good work ethic and are good with their money, which is important.” Jim Larby says that Matthew and Aaron have impressed him with their animal husbandry and duty of care with the land. “But it has been their enthusiasm and willingness to work and learn that convinced me they thoroughly deserved a chance to seriously progress themselves in the dairy business,” Jim says. For Matthew and Aaron, who live on the farm in separate houses and are both currently single, their mateship is also a crucial ingredient in the success of the venture. “We know we have each other’s backs at all times,” says Matthew. “If one of us is struggling with something the other one is there to help out and if we need time off the other one can cover.” Aaron says that both putting all their savings and excess earnings into the business will also strengthen their will to succeed. “We both have a big stake in it, so we will do whatever it takes to make it work,” he says. Off the farm they lead separate lives, with different areas of interest. Matthew loves water skiing, and is learning to fly, planning on a career as a pilot when he is done farming. Aaron loves driving all kinds of machinery, hunting and shooting. City life does not come into the equation for either of them. 8 | The beginning of the end 1962 for hydatids in Tasmania

In November 1962 a group of farmers, a couple of State Governmentment vets and the local GP Dr Trevor Beard met in the Campbell Town hall with the intention of eradicating the dreaded hydatid disease from Tasmania.

counterattack was launched at the Campbell that triggered Dr Beard’s attempt to launch a Town meeting with the formation of the serious eradication campaign. Secondly, Tasmanian Hydatids Eradication Committee Tasmania’s Agriculture Department had already (THEC), which would drive the eradication led the nation in successfully controlling two campaign across the State and successfully major animal diseases transmissible to cease the transmission of the disease to humans, tuberculosis and brucellosis, and so humans by the early 1970s. had a team of livestock inspectors Total eradication of a well-established disease experienced in successful such campaigns. is never easy, however, so the intention of the Without the benefit of modern technology people at Campbell Town was extremely such as the internet, or even television in ambitious, but not without impetus. Tasmania in 1962, the ‘high tech’ tool of the The campaign had its origins well before this day was the slideshow lecture given in meeting, with numerous attempts over many community halls by a vet or a GP. In the years to get some action against hydatids hydatids campaign, the new innovation of slides in colour was used. t the time, the disease was extremely disease in various farming communities, but Acommon in dogs and sheep in Tasmania none gained traction. There was resistance The THEC campaign was based on several and the State had the highest rate of the from some farmers to restrictions on the home key approaches: it was directed by vets and disease in humans in Australia – and one of killing of sheep and the inspection of dogs, involved livestock officers and farmers working the worst rates in the developed world. A and the question of which level of government closely together; the basic approach was parasitic infection of various animals, the should lead the campaign proved problematic primary prevention – in this case, stopping the disease is caused by a small tapeworm that as local governments were not in a good practice of feeding offal to dogs; and it used lives in dogs. When passed on to other position to do so and the public health voluntary compliance at the beginning, with animals, including humans, large hydatid cysts department had other priorities. Further, the pressure being applied by local farming and containing many tapeworm heads develop in budget request by the Chief Veterinary Officer, community leaders and regular community the host’s internal organs, especially the heart, Keith Meldrum, for £20,000 per annum for a presentation. Coercion was only introduced liver and lungs, causing serious illness and campaign was rejected twice by Cabinet. gradually and always one step behind public sometimes death. By 1962, however, two vital factors were in opinion, so as not to create martyrs. A horrible fate for any animal, let alone people, place. Firstly, Dr Beard was confronted by The threat of quarantining sheep flocks was the disease was particularly feared by farmers, three cases of hydatid disease in a period of also a key to success. This would have who were most exposed to its onslaught. A three months –all children. One died, and imposed a significant financial cost on the Story: Barry Calderbank Pictures: Courtesy DPIPWE | 9

Tasmania’s Provisional Freedom In February 1996, Tasmania was declared provisionally free of hydatid disease in dogs and sheep, following disposal of the last known infected sheep flocks. This does not mean that hydatid disease has been eradicated from Tasmania, but signals a significant stage in the eradication process. The disease is now very rare in Tasmania. To maintain provisional freedom and progress towards eradication we must continue do three things: 1. Detect and remove any residual infection 2. Minimise the risk of infection entering from the mainland 3. Permanently identify all imported livestock to enable differentiation at slaughter Dealing with Residual Infection Each year in Tasmania, up to 400,000 owner and thus was a great incentive for the While it is a long time since the routine sheep and 60,000 cattle are inspected few uncooperative livestock owners to testing of dogs on hydatids strips, there is still in abattoirs at slaughter. DPIPWE also participate in the eradication program. As a the occasional investigation into suspect receives information on hydatid result, this power was rarely actually used. hydatid cases. Importantly, the requirement that dogs entering Tasmania are treated for disease incidence in sheep and cattle Ceasing the transmission of the disease to hydatid tapeworm is actively enforced. slaughtered in some mainland abattoirs. humans was the first victorious battle, and in The infected flock or herd may be February 1996 the next major battle was The most important of the many valuable quarantined and progressively won when Tasmania was officially declared lessons learned from the disease eradication slaughtered. If any hydatid cysts are ‘provisionally free’ of hydatids. Tasmania campaign is simple: Never feed offal to your remains the only State with that status. dog. found, the property of origin is thoroughly investigated. The campaign involved many people and We owe it to all those farmers, vets, livestock much work over several decades, and while officers and others who gave so much of Minimising the Risk of Entry themselves to the campaign to make most of those at that original Campbell Town Dogs entering Tasmania must be Tasmania hydatids free to keep up the fight. meeting have since passed away, some staff treated for hydatid tapeworms. remain within DPIPWE who were actively For more information about the hydatid disease involved in the later stages of the campaign. Dogs are allowed entry if in Tasmania, visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au And the department remains vigilant in its accompanied by a veterinary certificate effort to make Tasmania free of the disease. or a Statutory Declaration of treatment within the previous 14 days with the drug praziquantel or evidence of Recommendations for all Dog Owners treatment, such as the pill packet. This Although Tasmania is considered to be provisionally free of is a common, harmless and highly hydatid disease, all dog owners should observe a number of effective treatment against tapeworms, simple recommendations found in many types of ‘all wormer’ tablets for dogs. 1 Do not feed dogs uncooked or cooked liver or hearts ie. offal, even if purchased from a butcher for human consumption. It remains illegal in Tasmania to feed or allow dogs Major air and sea transport operators access to cooked or uncooked offal from cattle, sheep, goats or pigs. Commercially advise people booking travel for dogs prepared dog food is fine. to Tasmania of the special entry 2 Prevent access of dogs to dead stock or fresh offal. requirements, the details of which are 3 Prevent dogs from roaming or straying. also available from the 24 hour recorded information service: free-call 4 Always wash hands thoroughly after handling dogs. This is particularly important for children. 1800 684 215 5 Treat dogs regularly with an all-wormer treatment containing praziquantel. 10 |

Digital impression of the proposed North Lyell Tragedy Memorial Park.

Monumental tragedy inspires Queenstown Queenstown is being revitalised as a visitor destination after the popular recent Queenstown Festival of Heritage and Arts, which commemorated the centenary of the North Lyell mine disaster, and the subsequent unveiling of plans for an inspired monument to that immense historic calamity.

Travis Tiddy. Photo: Kim Eij Photography Photo:

The Queenstown Festival of Heritage and Arts. Photo: Kim Eij Photography Photo: Story and pictures: Simon de Salis | 11

Queenstown

he October 1912 tragedy is little rememb- Tered outside Queenstown but has never been forgotten by the local community and is woven into the fabric of the unique district’s rich history and character. More than 40 miners lost their lives while three times as many survived due to a heroic rescue over four days that captivated the nation and much of the world. It is a story of legendary dimensions and a fitting one to attract attention to one of Tasmania’s most fascinating places. The mine disaster was a defining event in Queenstown’s intriguing history and will be permanently commemorated by the imminent creation of the North Lyell Tragedy Memorial Park. The centrepiece will be a splendid bronze sculpture by renowned local artist Ivan Stringer symbolising the event and the heartbreaking loss of life, surrounded by 42 endemic King Billy Pines representing the Historic steam train and ABT railway line between Queenstown and Strahan. dead miners with a plaque naming each man. A fountain will provide the base for a six metre Siding tourist area, a celebrated cultural Travis. “The cemetery is the touchstone site tall hollow bronze flame, which holds aloft a heritage interpretation precinct in Queenstown. for the tragedy but is 3.5km out of town.” miner’s pick-axe. Water will flow from within Travis Tiddy, the principal organiser of the Locals hope that the Memorial Park, near the the base of the flame into the surrounding Queenstown Festival of Heritage and Arts and centre of town on the site of a run down fountain pool. Taut steel strings will run from a driving force behind the Memorial Park, says and under-utilised Senior Citizens’ reserve, the base of the flame to the pick-axe, timed the new park will be a tangible focal point for will also become an iconic public monument to ring at the start and end of each shift when meaningful commemoration of the tragedy. for visitors to the region. struck by high-powered jets of water. “Memory of the disaster strongly resonates “The project will create a permanent reminder A conglomerate stone wall will enclose the within the community yet there is no commem- of the west coast mining history, an important space and will stylistically tie the Memorial orative site or object within Queenstown part of the region’s social fabric and tourism Park with the Stephen Walker-created Miners easily accessible to locals and visitors,” says industry,” says Travis. “The park will be an 12 |

Denuded hills near Queenstown at sunset.

Rainforest near Queenstown. Festival in development with a projected grant- and-sponsorship-raised budget of $100,000. Lions Club of Queenstown will drive the project by overseeing the financing and will also assist with labour; the West Coast Social Enterprise Centre will undertake project management; the West Coast Council are contributing in-kind engineering and planning approval and will provide ongoing maintenance of the park. Copper Mines of Tasmania are in consultation with the project stakeholders to provide 2.5 tonnes of bronze in-kind for use in the sculpture. All project partners are working closely with artist Ivan Stringer and sculpture caster John Parish to ensure that Ivan’s creative vision is met in the best-practice development of the Memorial Park.

important site for visitors to connect with wave of arts and cultural activity and a ‘can How you can be involved our cultural heritage in a meaningful way, and do’ community approach is taking seed there. The project has a $117,942 budget, with $37,442 of in-kind support, and $38,500 generate further engagement for increased “Whilst the future of the town is uncertain, sought through the Tasmanian Community visitor stay in Queenstown and the region.” Queenstown has an amazing story to tell, and Fund. The remaining $42,000 is being sought a strong core of civic leaders willing to give it Like many regional towns Queenstown faces through sponsorship of the 42 trees integral voice,” he says. “This is a truly collaborative to the Memorial Park. The $1,000 buy-in per socio-economic challenges, including a community project that will unite us, inject tree will ensure that each sponsor is dramatically seasonal tourism industry, and pride and morale, redevelop an underutilised permanently tied to the creation of this has been hard hit by the tourism downturn. public space, and solidify our sense of identity project of local and national significance. But according to Travis, who is also President and connections with our history.” of community group Project Queenstown Project Queenstown Inc merged the Memorial Please contact project organiser Shane Pitt on Inc, which develops and supports arts, culture Park’s development and launch with the [email protected] or 0419 899 667 for more and heritage projects in the region, a fresh October 2012 Queenstown Heritage & Arts information Story: Simon de Salis Pictures: Simon de Salis and Courtesy Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office | 13

Gravestone for the 42 dead miners at the Queenstown cemetery.

OOnene touchtouch ofof NatureNature makesmakes thethe wholewhole worldworld kinkin

The tale of the 1912 North Lyell mine disaster is one of such drama, heroics, heartbreak and joy that had it occurred a century later, it would probably have had more media impact worldwide than the Chilean and Beaconsfield mine disasters combined.

f the 165 men who went to work at open finding, but rumours Othe Mount Lyell Mining and Railway that a disgruntled miner and Company’s North Lyell copper mine near trade unionist named Queenstown on Saturday October 12th, 42 Robert Stone had started would die as a result of a fire underground, the fire to damage the while most of the rest would owe their company were rife for survival to a long, desperate rescue effort many years afterwards. However some that included incredible acts of individual recent research suggests that the cause was bravery, and breakneck rail and sea trips. an electrical fault subsequently covered up by Thousands of telegraph messages helped the company, who attempted to shift blame co-ordinate the rescue and kept a captivated onto an arsonist to avoid culpability and nation and much of the world in touch with paying compensation to the victims’ families. the unfolding events, while locals crowded at What is certain is that the miners were the mine entrance waited anxiously for men discontented at the time due to the unsafe and news to emerge. condition of the mine and extremely reluctant The final 50 men rescued were entombed to work there. The issue had been raised in 1000 feet underground for more than 100 parliament and the Tasmanian Government hours and feared lost for much of that time. was so dissatisfied with the company’s The tragedy culminated some months later response to the safety concerns that it had with the largest mass funeral seen in Tasmania secretly sent a team of inspectors to independently investigate. Ironically the team to that time, when 18 of the last bodies to arrived in Queenstown on October 12th. be retrieved were laid to rest at the Queenstown cemetery. A Royal Commission The fire broke out late that morning in the into the cause of the tragedy reached an pump room at the 700 foot level, sending 14 |

“Well, Dear Agnes, I will say good-bye. Sure I will not see you again any more. I am pleased to have made a little provision for you and poor little Lorna. Be good to our little darling. My mate, Lou. Burke, is done, and poor old V. the driver too. Good-bye, with love to all. Your loving husband, Joe McCarthy.”

Funeral train takes 18 coffins to the Queenstown cemetery in March 2013.

thickthhiick smsmokeoke bibillowingllowing frfromom tthehe eentrancentrance anandd through much of the mine. With poor communication between stopes and no emergency warning system, many miners were unaware of the fire until the smoke and fumes reached them, trapping some. Despite mass confusion a dozen men escaped from the 700 foot level in the first hours. A hero of the initial rescue success on the Saturday afternoon was Albert Gadd, 32, who re-entered the mine several times to calmly lead to safety 57 miners from the 850 foot level, and was later awarded the Royal Humane Society’s highest honour for his A hero of the initial rescue success on the Saturday afternoon was Albert Gadd, A crcrowdowd soon ggatheredatthhered att tthehhe mmine’siine’’s enentrancetrance DDuDuringriing thethhe disaster,diisaster, helphellp was offeredoffffered fromffrom allall 32, who re-entered the mine with, as expressed by the Hobart Mercury, around the State and also the mining towns of several times to calmly lead “many a heart destructed and mind racked Ballarat and Bendigo in Victoria, which had ‘twixt fear and doubt for the safety of loved experienced mining rescue personnel and high to safety 57 miners... ones. That feeling was spontaneous – and we tech breathing apparatus unavailable in Tasmania. might say immediate – all over the West Coast. Men and equipment were rushed across Bass bravery. Already suffering from advanced The public at large shared in the personal Strait on S.S. Loongana, which made the crossing silicosis (miner’s lung or dust disease), Gadd’s anxiety of those more intimately interested in in extremely adverse conditions in 13 hours, lungs were further damaged so badly during the disaster, and in that respect the words of 35 minutes – a record which stood for many years. On land, the rugged West Coast wilder- the rescue that he would die of mon-oxide the poet were truly brought home that ‘one poisoning four months later. Most of the ness could only be traversed by rail, from Burnie touch of Nature makes the whole world kin.’” other 42 victims were also killed by carbon to Zeehan to Strahan and then the ABT line monoxide or smoke inhalation: not flames, Eventually the smoke became impassable to Queenstown. The steam trains rushing explosions or rockfalls. from above. Undeterred, a brave miner on men and equipment for the massive rescue the surface donned a cumbersome diving Rescuers soon began to find bodies. One effort almost halved previous record times victim had left a note which read: “Well, Dear suit and was lowered slowly and with some for the difficult journey, making legends of Agnes, I will say good-bye. Sure I will not see difficulty below, trailing his air pipe to the 850 their drivers and firemen. you again any more. I am pleased to have feet level. No more survivors were found, With toxic gases and smoke permeating the made a little provision for you and poor little but hope remained for those still missing mine hopes were fading for the men still Lorna. Be good to our little darling. My mate, below that level. However the cage down underground after two days, but late on Lou. Burke, is done, and poor old V. the driver the main shaft jammed and a subsequent Monday the 14th a line holding a signal gong too. Good-bye, with love to all. Your loving dangerous, painstaking expedition down the being used by men attempting to fix the skids husband, Joe McCarthy.” He was 28 years old. winze shaft to 1000 feet found nobody. in the main shaft was tugged from far below. Story: Simon de Salis Pictures: Simon de Salis and Courtesy Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office | 15

Large crowd at the mine during the rescue.

The steam trains rushing men WhenWhen tthehe rope was pupulledlled up a handkehandkerchiefrchief beingbeb ing hauled up in ppairsairs iinna a buckbucketet on a liline.ne was found attached wrapped around a At 7.40pm on Wednesday 16th the last and equipment for the tobacco tin, which contained a note: “40 men survivor emerged into the open air to three massive rescue effort almost in 40 stope. Send food and candles at once. cheers from the large crowd. No time to lose. J. Ryan” halved previous record times When it was beyond doubt that the men The news electrified the vigilant crowd above remaining below had perished, the mine was for the difficult journey, ground and quickly travelled via telegraph to sealed and flooded to extinguish the fire. It the wider world, where it was met with great was eventually drained and the last bodies making legends of their joy. As the Mercury reported on Tuesday 15th, retrieved some months later, 18 of them drivers and firemen. “This disaster has stirred Australia just as buried in a mass funeral in Queenstown on a mumuch as Tasmania, and there are many perfect March day in 1913. The caskets tthousandsho of people who would be quite travelled to the cemetery on a railway rereadya to start out at a moment’s notice if hearse, followed by three carriages full of ttheyhe could, by any possibility, do some good.” mourners and a large entourage marching “40 men in 40 stope. Send 40 stope was at the1000 foot level and by before and behind the train. Almost 100 pall ththee time these men were reached by bearers carried the coffins to the grave site, food and candles at once. rerescuerss they had been joined by 10 more the only sound being ‘Chopin’s Funeral March’ frfromo the level below. All 50 eventually made from the Queenstown Brass band, followed it ssafely to the surface via a slow, arduous and by ‘Lord Lovett’s Lament’ from a lone bagpiper No time to lose. J. Ryan” ddangerousa route that involved a climb of in the distance. After the men were interred hhuhundreds of feet up ropes and ladders, finally buglers sounded the last post. It was the poignant final episode of a tragic event, which left dozens of children fatherless and many mourning families without bread- winners. The 42 lost miners were aged between 20 and 54, mostly from Tasmania and Victoria but some from as far away as England, Ireland, Austria and Sweden. The immediate aftermath of the disaster included damaging rumours about culprits and rancour towards the company, but the event did trigger the significant ongoing improvement of conditions in the local mines and the town, which had been extremely harsh, hazardous and poor.

An exhibition of photographs, film footage and documents relating to the disaster can be viewed at the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts, ground floor, 91 Murray St Hobart Large crowd at the mine during the rescue. until 23 February 2013. Entry is free. 16 |

Fishcare volunteers Norm and Gary show the Swansea Primary School kinder/prep class their catch.

Fish for the future

uring activities and events Dthroughout the year, the statewide Fishcare Education Program delivers key messages identified by thee Recreational Fisheries communicationss plan, such as: Fish for the future aims to promote responsible and sustainable fishing. Onlyy take what you need for a feed encourages fishers to limit their catch to their immediate personal consumption requirements. Measure your catch encourages the fisher to learnarn the size limits and use a measuring device. Gently put the little ones back promotes the correct handling of undersize fish to reduce trauma and survival to grow and breed. Think of thehe environment and other fishers encouragesges fishers to consider their influences on water quality and habitat degradation anandd behaviour when using a shared resource.rce. An important part of the Fishcare strategyategy is the Fishcare Schools Program, aimedd at early learning to Year 12 students and divided between activities directly involvingolving Southern Fishcare Co-ordinator Rob participation with schools and broaderr Green working with community based activities. Adult Swansea first to educational awareness also results fromm third graders. their association with the children involvedolved in the program. The Fishcare Schools Program is divided into three activities: Story: Courtesy Fishcare Pictures: Simon de Salis | 17

1. School Classroom Activities pool. The pool introduces the principles of Students are introduced to the marine fish identification to determine size and Would you like to be a Fishcare environment and how fish interrelate to their possession restrictions using entertaining, Volunteer, and/or know someone habitat and basic requirements to survive. visual and tactile activities. The trailer provides who would? a colourful platform for the distribution of ishcare Tasmania is looking for new An understanding is developed of the various Guides, rulers and other information specific recruits. Becoming a Fishcare volunteer is influences humans have on the marine to recreational fishing. F habitat and the effects on fish stocks through a great way to do your bit by looking after extractive use. The Program explains During 2011-12, Fishcare increased focus on Tasmania’s fisheries. Volunteers attend fishing concepts such as bag, possession and size schools outside the metropolitan areas of events around the State, meet like-minded limits to protect the fish and to maintain a each of the regions. These areas are growth people and have the satisfaction of knowing sustainable resource. satellite communities with easy access to the they’ve made a difference. coastal areas. Through a basic understanding of fish physiology, What do Fishcare Tasmania students become aware of humane treat- Fishing Clinics for Groups outside volunteers do? ment of fish they intend to keep and methods the Education System Fishcare Tasmania is a volunteer program to increase survival of released fish. Fishing clinics are offered to groups outside operated by the Wild Fisheries Management These classes are designed to help explore the education system for any age groups Branch of DPIPWE that educates the public changes to the marine environment and where sufficient numbers attend. about responsible recreational fishing. how they impact fish stocks, and the Information on circle hooks, line weight, size The volunteers donate their time to spread measures individuals can take to ensure fish limits, how to measure fish and humane the responsible fishing message at events for the future. treatment of fish are mixed with basic such as fishing expos and AgFest. They can 2. School Fishing Clinics and Field understanding of how to set up and use also participate in the popular Fishcare Excursions fishing equipment. The promotion of Schools Program, educating children about participation in recreational fishing is not the responsible fishing practices. Students are introduced to recreational sea principal aim of Fishcare, however the running Volunteers only take part in educational fishinggqp and the basic equipment needed. The of clinics is an opportunity to communicate activities; they do not have any enforcement PProgramrogram increases their responsible fishing practices. awaawarenessrene of size limits role. Clinics have been conducted with scout groups, and memeasuringa fish, and Who should become a thethe cocorrectrr handling school holiday programs run by councils, methodsmethod to improve disabled and rehabilitation groups, seniors’ week Fishcare Volunteer? fishfish ssurvivalurv on release. activity and migrant groups. Ideally, Fishcare recruits are recreational fishers who TheyThey aarer shown The diverse backgrounds of the participants and • communicate well and like talking to practicalpractica examples of their reason for participating in the fishing people about fishing; humanehuman treatment of clinics add another dimension to the Fishcare • are interested in educating kids about fishfish ((ikiiki jime) and their program. Younger fishers are intrigued by the good fishing practices; and preparationprepar for marine environment, the excitement of • are keen to help keep Tasmania’s fisheries consumptionconsum to catching a fish and display empathy towards sustainable. increaseincrea the meat the fish on release. Older participants still returnreturn and reduce fish enjoy the same aspects but are looking for Men and women, young and old are wastage.wastag learning and lifestyle challenges as well as the encouraged to apply. ability to participate in fishing with other FieldField excursionse intergenerational family members. Training enableenable an onsite Induction and training is provided to all Migrant groups often come with a preconcep- investigationinvest of recruits in topics including fisheries rules, fish tion of fishing as a means of survival, of providing coastalcoast and intertidal identification, communication skills, and nutrition or income to the family, sometimes habitatshabita and volunteer rights and responsibilities. organismsorgan and to with little consideration for the resource. Please contact your Regional Fishcare determinedete localised The Fishcare clinics introduce them to sustain- Coordinator if you’re interested in becoming environmentalenvir able practices and help their adjustment to a volunteer and to find out when and where influenceinflu on these living in the Australian community. the next training session commences. marinemar habitats. Swansea kinder/prep kids measure a tiddler. Southern Fishcare Coordinator: 3.3 SSchool Fairs Rob Green, Ph: 03 6233 6208 TheThe aim of Northern Fishcare Coordinator: atattendingte school Quenton Higgs, Ph: 03 6336 5474 fafairsir is to promote FFishcareish activities North West Fishcare Coordinator: to tthe broader Damian Higgs, Ph: 6443 8624 scschoolh community Email: [email protected] tthroughhr the use of tthehe display trailer For more information, including application anand the fishing forms, visit www.fishing.tas.gov.au/fishcare 18 | Story and pictures: Courtesy ISB Tasmania’s cat conundrum Cat management in Tasmania is a contentious social and environmental issue. Many in the community value domestic cats as a companion animal, while others regard cats as a devastating predator of native wildlife and a vector for diseases that can affect native species, livestock and humans.

hat is certain is that the effective Macquarie Island. Feral cats may also be a Wmanagement of cat impacts, major reason for the failure of particularly those of feral cats, requires reintroductions of threatened species to cooperation and collaboration between parts of their former range due to predation government, stakeholders and the community. of newly released animals. Cats were brought to Australia by English Observational data indicates that feral cats settlers in the 18th century, but may have are widely established in Tasmania, and while arrived much earlier with other human state-wide eradication is not feasible with visitors. Domestic cats were introduced to current resources and techniques, their Tasmania in the early 1800s and by the mid- negative impact can be minimised through 1800s were being reported as ‘feral in some cooperative effort. The Cat Management Act parts of the Colony’. Anecdotal records of 2009 was enacted earlier this year in cat predation on native animals were also response to growing concerns of negative made in the 1800s but surprisingly little impacts from feral and stray cats, with its scientific research has been done into the administration tasked to DPIPWE’s Invasive impact of feral cats at a landscape scale in Species Branch (ISB). ISB is developing a Tasmania. Management Strategy for Feral Cats in The issue of the impact of feral cats is Tasmania to provide a framework that contentious. Some claim that feral cats have promotes cooperation between stakeholders been an ecological disaster for Australia and to enable the best use of available resources implicate them in the decline and extinction for feral cat management. The Strategy will of several native animal and bird species. address existing knowledge gaps about feral Others believe that there is little sound cats, promote best practice management evidence that feral cats have had any and consider the long-term effort that will significant impact on native wildlife be required to manage impacts. populations except on small islands or where Members of the public and stakeholders are isolated populations of animals exist. The fact strongly encouraged to have input into this is that no small mammals have become strategy when it is released for public extinct in Tasmania since cats arrived. Feral feedback in early 2013. For the most cats may actually eat other invasive species effective outcomes, the management of feral such as rabbits and rodents and help limit cat populations must focus on cooperation the impacts of such pests. and collaboration within the community. Sequence from top left: A feral cat passes by a very lucky little penguin. However, feral cats have been implicated in the decline and extinction of a number of For more information ground birds and small native mammals from visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/invasivespecies small offshore islands around Australia, including the Red-fronted Parakeet on Story and pictures: Simon de Salis | 19 Flowers with beauty and personality

As Australia’s premier individual Sue Wallbank grower of Auricula flowers, Sue Wallbank considers herself an artist as much as a horticulturist, and the beauty and variety of the blooms she produces is testament to that notion. “ think I am an artist who mucks around with Iscience,” says Sue, who has 200 named varieties among the 3000 Auricula plants at her small Fern Tree nursery, Pen-Lan Plants. “When you make your crossings you have an idea of what you want and what you will get but because of the complex genetics you don’t know exactly what it will be. You are always after something special and sometimes it can be even better than that.” Sue at work “Some of the plants are then not ready for in nursery. Sue does all her crossings painstakingly by hand, dividing for as long as six years, while others and then has to wait between four and six just romp away. They each have their own years until one is established enough to be personality.” This is one of many things Sue named as a new variety, which requires loves about Auriculas. independent certification that it is both “They have it all really: they are eye catching, unique and within set standards. After 20 years perfumed, challenging and in great variety. of working with Auriculas, Sue has thus far They are also not heavy and are easy to created two varieties: ‘George Pierre’, named handle, which is good when you are my age after her first grandchild, and ‘Margaret Knight’, and spend as much time working with them named after a late and beloved former Crossing auriculas. as I do.” customer who raised it from seed. Sue sells about 600 plants around Australia a Very few of the many named varieties – which year, and has also exported them back to the include such monikers as Scorcher, Frosty, and UK, so well regarded are her Auriculas. Trouble – have come from Australia, where “One of the great things about growing them Sue is the only horticulturist who concentrates is the friends I have made. The internet allows almost entirely on Auriculas. The species is for fascinating worldwide interconnections most popular in the United Kingdom, where and we all share our ideas and knowledge. If I it has been cultivated since the 16th century, have created something I want others to give and also where Sue first noticed the alluring me their impression about I just take a little flowers. Sue joined a number of grower organisations picture and email it and then get on skype “About 20 years ago I went to the Chelsea in the UK, and one in the USA, from whom she with a cup of tea.” Flower Show in London and saw an amazing sources seeds and the wealth of knowledge display by Brenda Hyatt, who was considered about cultivating Auriculas accumulated over For more information, visit www.auricula.net.au the Queen of Auriculas. I was hooked from centuries. She and Phil have also gone to the then on.” UK several times to buy plants, which they George Pierre Sue bought some seed from the UK and travelled extensively to collect and then started to grow them herself at her Fern Tree painstakingly bare-rooted to bring back to home, which Sue and her husband Phil had Tasmania in their hand luggage. carved out of a 50 ha bush block perched “With seeds you never know exactly what high above the Derwent on the flanks of Mount you will get until you plant them, but with Wellington. As it happened, the Auriculas did named plants you can see it, which is a great very well, while the natives that she had advantage,” she says. “The problem is that originally intended growing there did not. they have to go into quarantine on arrival “They seem to like the coolness at this altitude here for at least three months , so I have and the heavy soil, and the wildlife leaves become quite familiar with quarantine and them alone, which is a real plus here,” says Sue. biosecurity issues, as well as AQIS procedures. 20 | One of the great old florists’ flowers Primula auricula, often known as Auricula, is a developed against what were termed species of primrose that grows amongst rocks ‘artificial flowers’ and florists flowers lost in the mountain ranges of central Europe, popularity, some disappearing completely. including the western Alps, Jura, the Vosges, The auricula, however, retained a loyal the Black Forest and the Tatra mountains. It is following especially in the north of England, a member of one of the largest and most although Stripes vanished and Doubles popular plant families, the Genus Primula, of became rare. Many of the named varieties which approximately 425 species are known vanished with the two world wars. They owe and new ones are still being discovered. much of their current magnificence to Thousands of hybrids are grown including all dedicated breeders in the United Kingdom. the modern primroses and polyanthus. The plants are still little seen in Australia. The auricula has a long and fascinating history starting from a cross between two European alpine primulas. It first appeared in European gardens in the middle of the 16th Century and the varieties grown today have been cultivated for more than 350 years. There are two schools of thought as to how Trouble auriculas reached England. The first is that they were introduced by Flemish weavers fleeing religious persecution in the 1570s but were then still novelties grown only by the rich. The second believes that the auricula arrived in Britain, like most other flowers, by interchange between leading Continental and English plantsmen. Red Cardinal Whichever way it was, the flowers became very popular, and were loved by artists. Eden Greenfinch The auricula was – and remains – one of the great florists’ flowers, some of the others being anemone, ranunculi, tulips and carnations. (The term ‘florist’ was originally applied in the 1600s to a person who grew plants for their decorative flowers rather than for any useful property the plant might have: the modern meaning as a seller of flowers only emerged towards the end of the 19th Century.) Florists’ flowers are usually grown to an agreed standard, and used in

floral displays and competitions. Starling In earlier times the florists formed groups with like-minded people to meet and hold ‘feasts’, often rowdy affairs with plenty of alcohol consumed. By the 19th century the florists’ groups were extremely popular with working class people in the industrial north and midlands of England. They met in public houses to show off their tulips, auriculas, primulas and carnations and to weigh their giant gooseberries. Prizes at their shows were frequently copper kettles and the public houses would often hang a copper kettle outside on show days. Towards the end of the 19th Century a movement Story and pictures: Simon de Salis | 21

John Woolf Ian Greville

Scorcher

Chaffinch

Bob Lancashire

Cherry Picker 22 | Taking Tasmania’s unique landscapes to the world

The wild natural beauty of Tasmania’s coastline, forests and mighty rivers, along with its diverse cultural heritage places are now being promoted to the world as Australia’s 15th National Landscape in the Tourism Australia and Parks Australia program.

he Commonwealth Government Minister This status recognises the value of Tasmania’s “No matter how much money any country Tfor Tourism Martin Ferguson, and Minister secluded beaches, dense rainforest, cavernous invests in built attractions, nothing can for Sustainability, Environment, Water, gorges, mighty rivers, thriving boutique food compare with our natural assets which are Population and Communities Tony Burke and wine industry, Aboriginal heritage, historic some of the most spectacular on earth. joined tour operators in early October to sites and heritage precincts which gives “Eco-tourism is a wonderful way to preserve launch the latest National Landscape – Tasmania a far reaching visitor experience. these environments, instilling in visitors an ‘Tasmania’s Island Heritage’ at the World Environment Minister Tony Burke noted that emotional connection with the landscape and Heritage listed Brickendon Estate at Longford. more than 40 per cent of Tasmania’s habitat is a passion for its preservation. These visitors go home with a renewed sense of what Australia Minister Ferguson said it was fitting Tasmania protected, providing world class opportunities has to offer, and pass this message on to their should join such iconic landscapes as the Great for visitors to engage with nature. friends and social networks. Barrier Reef, the Australian Alps and Kangaroo “Few places are as beautiful, wild and awe- “Nature is the primary driver attracting Island in the National Landscapes Program. inspiring as those we find in Tasmania, overseas visitors to Australia. The creation of “Tasmania is renowned around the world for its including the Franklin River, which is part of these 15 iconic National Landscapes is natural beauty, unique wildlife and world class the majestic Tasmanian Wilderness World central in assisting international travellers to tourism experiences,” said Minister Ferguson. Heritage Area, protected for all people to explore our vast and fascinating country and “Increased exposure as a National Landscape experience,” Minister Burke said. support a strong tourism sector.” will assist the island in continuing to attract “The diversity of Tasmania’s landscapes has The National Landscapes program is a domestic and international visitors who seek created a treasure trove of species including partnership between Tourism Australia and increasingly sophisticated connections with the mountain ash – the world’s tallest Parks Australia showcasing Australia’s most history, nature and culture.” flowering tree – to the iconic Tasmanian devil. iconic landscapes. Story: Robyn Shaw Pictures: Simon de Salis | 23

Richmond Bridge Bathurst Harbour

Russell Falls. Old Iron Blow Mine near Queenstown;

Mount Cameron from Green Point Marrawah.

Lake St Claire. Freycinet from Cherry Tree Hill.

Bay of Fires.

Tasmania joins 14 other regions as National Landscapes, including Australia’s Red Centre, the Kimberley and the Wet Tropics. The Tasmanian nomination for inclusion in the Australian National Landscapes Program was led by a steering committee facilitated by Tourism Tasmania, with input from DPIPWE Oatlands from the top of Callington Mill. through the Parks and Wildlife Service and Heritage Tasmania. Having Tasmania recognised in this way is a huge feather in the cap for the State, especially as it recognises the unique combination of our natural and cultural heritage appeal to local, national and international visitors. Tourism Australia’s website offers a 14 day suggested itinerary of Tasmania, with key facts about our island and a list of things to do and see.

This information can be found at: http://www.tourism.australia.com 24 | Marine debris deadly for seals Tasmania and its offshore islands once supported huge colonies of Australian and New Zealand fur seals, but populations were hunted to near extinction during the sealing era of the early 1800s. Fortunately they are now on the rebound, with the number of breeding colonies and haul- out sites for both species increasing around Tasmania.

onetheless fur seals remain vulnerable Nto a range of threats, including fisheries interactions, climate change and marine pollution. Plastics and other anthropogenic debris in our oceans is a growing threat to many marine species. Entanglement in fishing debris is a particular problem for fur seals. Inquisitive by nature, seals can get into trouble by poking their nose into a new play-thing, or, as any fishermen knows, seals are attracted to commercial and recreational fishing activities. Either way, entangled seals are commonly seen with the entanglement material around the neck that over time embeds itself in the flesh, causing open wounds and eventual infection. As the seal grows, this material gradually strangles the animal. Before the seal dies it may suffer from starvation due to the entanglement restricting movement or preventing the swallowing of food, or the entanglement may cut through the skin. Without intervention entangled seals face a long and painful death. As populations recover they increasingly inhabit areas that overlap with commercial and recreational fisheries, inevitably leading to entanglements in marine debris. DPIPWE biologists and Wildlife Rangers respond to reports of entangled seals where possible. Of course, removing an entanglement from an animal that may weigh up to 350 kg is not an easy task, and the approach varies depending on the location, health and size of the animal. Staff are highly trained and specialist equipment is needed for any disentanglement attempt. Generally the stricken seal is only detected – and can only be dealt with – when hauled out on land. Small animals can often be captured by hand using a specially designed net, but capturing larger individuals on slippery terrain can be more difficult and may require sedation to allow staff to safely approach and handle the animal. Sedatives are delivered remotely using a small dart and are an excellent way to limit the stress on the animal during a disentanglement attempt. This page: Rescuing an entangled seal near Sloping Island. Once a seal has been safely captured the entanglement is cut free. Fur seals are Story and pictures: Courtesy DPIPWE Marine Mammal Conservation Program | 25 incredibly resilient and wounds heal very not threaten our marine wildlife is to ensure Determining the state of health of an quickly; freed seals are expected to make a that no fishing gear is lost or discarded into entangled, injured or distressed seal should full recovery. the ocean. All other rubbish should also be only be attempted by suitably qualified The DPIPWE team had recent success disposed of appropriately. persons such as wildlife officers or vets. If removing an entanglement from an Anyone finding a severely injured or such persons are not present the seal should Australian fur seal entangled in tuna fishing entangled seal is encouraged to call the not be approached unless you have been in equipment last September. Without their Marine Mammal Hotline on 0427 WHALES radio or telephone contact with someone intervention the seal would have died slowly (0427 942537) so the DPIPWE team can qualified to advise you on a safe course of and painfully of starvation or infection respond rapidly. action. because of the loop of nylon trace and a large plastic lure embedded deep in its neck At no stage should anyone attempt to Remember, seals may bite. Although they can and shoulders, causing a large open wound. remove the entanglement themselves, for appear cute and sedate, they have large The seal is expected to make a full recovery their own safety and that of the animal. teeth and can move surprisingly quickly.. but was fortunate to survive after an initial rescue attempt failed and it was not spotted again for two months. It was a particularly bad entanglement and severely restricted the Anyone finding a severely injured or entangled seal is movement of the animal. While it had been encouraged to call the Marine Mammal Hotline on able to continue to feed, movement probably became extremely painful. 0427 WHALES (0427 942 537) so the DPIPWE team Local residents and fishers were asked to can respond rapidly. report any sightings of the seal while marine conservation program staff searched for the distressed animal, and a sighting was eventually reported to DPIPWE’s Marine Mammal Hotline. Wildlife officers captured the seal and removed the fishing gear while it was sedated. Another recent successful disentanglement was on Ile des Phoques on Tasmania’s east coast. The animal was spotted during routine surveys for seal pups and had a loop of cord around its neck that had tightened and caused a nasty open wound. Without removal, this seal was doomed. Unfortunately a disentanglement attempt was not possible at the time, but the team returned during calm conditions several weeks later ready to go. Fortunately this seal was hauled out in exactly the same location and was easily located. Simon de Salis Picture: A land-based attempt to capture this animal was impossible in this case so two darts were fired from the boat to sedate her – not an easy job from a moving vessel. She was monitored as the sedative took effect and once safely sedated was brought on board the boat and the entanglement cut free. The entanglement material was a simple piece of thin nylon cord, possibly from a shark fishing rig – amazing that such an innocuous object had the potential to kill an 80 kg seal. The seal was left onshore to recover and was later observed swimming well. While this situation was a fantastic success, many more incidents go unseen or unreported and these seals face an agonising death. Given that discarded fishing gear is usually the culprit in these cases, the easiest way to help ensure marine pollution does 26 |

Keeping Tasmania’s maritime history alive Every room at the Low Head Historic Museum tells a story: from the days of whaling, through the steamship era, to the shipwrecks on the nearby Hebe reef. And while the exhibits are intriguing, it’s the museum volunteers who bring the stories alive for visitors.

he volunteers, known as the Low Head the museum is itself a worthy museum piece. TPilot Station Support Group, have greeted It was designed by colonial architect John Lee museum visitors and managed the collections Archer and is one of the very few of his of historical artefacts at the site since 2001. buildings in the north of the State. The museum, co-managed by the Parks and Structurally it has changed little since it was Wildlife Service, is the centrepiece of the built in 1835 and according to the museum Low Head Pilot Station’s nine buildings, which volunteers’ group chairman, Peter Cox, the sit on a four hectare site at the mouth of the atmosphere of The Pilots’ Row building Tamar River. The Pilots’ Row building housing contributes greatly to the museum experience. “This is very important because visitors’ experience what it would have been like to live in this building when it was home to the pilots,” Peter said. “It also has a very interesting collection which is unique among maritime museums in Tasmania because it has so many artefacts from the days of steam and also a lot of artefacts associated with the maritime history of the Tamar River, especially the wrecks that occurred on the Hebe Reef. It also has a very rich record of the port of Launceston and Hobart Marine Board and a very large collection of images.” Each of the many rooms has a special focus. The whaling room has a try pot used to remove and render the oil from the blubber of the whales, two whaling lances, a large Story and pictures: Liz Wren | 27

scrimshaw collection and one enormous whale vertebrae and ribs mounted on a wall. The Ponrabbel room is named after a steam- driven bucket dredger which operated on the Tamar River from the 1920s to the 1970s, maintaining access to the port of Launceston. When the Ponrabbel was retired, the museum acquired much of the ship’s equipment, including the steering mechanism, one of its engines, the whistle, the binnacle (compass housing) and a porcelain washbasin. “It’s a fairly important collection of what was in steam ships of that time and it’s been set up in the museum as if you were on the bridge of the ship,” Peter said. Another major collection featuresures the Eden Holme and the Asterope, twoo of the many ships wrecked on the nearby HeHebebe Reef.Reef. Photographs and a large collectionection ofof artefacts from the wrecks telll aann evocative story of misfortunee at sea. Peter Cox. The museum relies on a groupup ooff about 30 volunteers from thehe LLowow Head and George Town area.ea. According to Peter, their commonommon motivation is enjoyment. “It’s fun being here and it’s fufunn talking to people. We havee a mixture of people who loveove history, people who have bbeeneen associated with the river or people whose family haveve donated items to the museum, plusus those who jujustst love meeting people. “We emphasise to our volunteerslunteers thethe importance of welcoming people to the site and the museum. There’s no script, because we’re not selling anything, it’s about each volunteer telling his or her own story. That makes it personal and it makes it interesting for visitors.” A smaller group allied with the museum volunteers are the fog horn volunteers. The station’s fog horn was in service from 1929 an integral part of the pilot station, its history, to 1973. Thanks to a small band of fog horn present and future. buffs, it was eventually restored and approved for use. Today the volunteers carry “Most importantly, the volunteers are on the maritime tradition for visitors by prepared to put words into action and have sounding the fog horn every Sunday at noon. been mostly supportive of PWS management through the good and not so While the volunteers do enjoy their work, good times,” she said. Peter said there is a serious side to their efforts. The Low Head museum volunteers group is an incorporated, not-for-profit group. All “We want to see the site preserved and want income from the admission fee goes back its history to be told. Behind the scenes of into the maintenance of the museum, its the displays there are many people working collections and for special collections. to collate our collection and to research the history and bring it to the attention of the The Low Head Pilot Station Maritime Museum public.” is open daily (except Christmas day) from PWS parks and reserves manager for Tamar/ 10am to 4pm. For more information visit Bass, Donna Stanley said the volunteers are www.museum.lowhead.com 28 | BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY How the Indian Ocean affects Tasmania’s rainfall Sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean can affect rainfall patterns over large areas of The Indian Ocean Dipole Australia, including across northern and eastern parts of Tasmania in winter and spring. In To monitor the state of the Indian Ocean and general terms, warmer than normal sea surface temperatures in the eastern Indian Ocean its likely impacts on Australia’s rainfall, climatologists look at a phenomenon known (near Australia) can enhance rainfall in the Australian region by contributing to the as the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). The IOD formation of northwest cloud bands, whilst cooler than normal waters in the eastern describes the oscillation of sea surface Indian Ocean can lead to below average rainfall. Unfortunately the relationship between temperature patterns across the equatorial sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean and Australian rainfall is not clearcut; other Indian Ocean, and is measured by an index climate drivers, such as El Niño and La Niña, often come into play. known as the Dipole Mode Index (DMI). The DMI is derived from the difference between sea temperature anomalies in an area of the western equatorial Indian Ocean (west pole), near Africa, and an area of the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean (east pole) near northern Australia [See Figure 1]. These two areas seem to be the key to the IOD’s impact on Australia. IOD events have most influence on winter and spring rainfall. They usually start around May or June, peak between August and October, and then decay before summer. Positive IOD events The Indian Ocean Dipole is positive when waters are warmer than normal in the Figure 1: A map of the sea surface temperature areas used western pole (near Africa) and cooler than for the west and east poles of the Indian Ocean Dipole. normal in the eastern pole (near Australia). This leads to an increase in easterly winds

Figure 2: average winter-spring rainfall deciles for eleven positive IOD events.

BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY| 29

Figure 3: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1972 Figure 4: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1963 Figure 5: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1983 across the Indian Ocean, reduced cloudiness below average across the north and east of conditions in the Pacific Ocean were neutral in the Australian region, and generally less Tasmania, and average in the west and south (neither El Niño nor La Niña). Winter to spring rainfall across central and southern Australia. [See Figure 3]. rainfall was below average across the north When the IOD is positive, winter and spring 1963: An unusual positive IOD and of Tasmania, and above average in the far rainfall is often below average across the El Niño year south [See Figure 5]. northern half of the Tasmania, due largely to 1963 was another positive IOD and El Niño Negative IOD events a decline in rain bearing northwest cloud year, but El Niño conditions only developed in The IOD is negative when sea surface temper- bands [See Figure 2]. the Pacific Ocean in September, which is later atures are cooler than normal in the western 1972: A positive IOD and El Niño year than usual for an El Niño. Winter to spring pole near Africa, and warmer than normal in 1972 was both a positive IOD and an El Niño rainfall was almost the opposite of that the eastern pole near Australia. Warmer waters year. Positive IOD events often, but not always, expected in a positive IOD year: close to near Australia contribute to cloud formation, coincide with El Niño conditions in the Pacific average across the north and east of Tasmania, and lead to an increase in rainfall across large Ocean. El Niño conditions further increase and below average across the south and areas of southern Australia. In Tasmania, winter the likelihood of below-average rainfall across west [See Figure 4]. to spring rainfall is usually above average northern Tasmania. Winter and spring rainfall 1983: A typical positive IOD year state-wide [See Figure 6], but just like the in 1972 was typical of a positive IOD year: 1983 was year when the IOD was positive and positive IOD, each event is different.

Figure 6: average winter-spring rainfall deciles for ten negative IOD events.

30 | BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY

Figure 7: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1974 Figure 8: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1996 Figure 9: Rainfall deciles for winter- spring 1993

1975: A negative IOD and strong 1993: a negative IOD and El Niño year Lorien Martin La Niña year 1993 was unusual, in that a negative IOD event Climatologist, 1975 was both a negative IOD and a strong occurred in the same year as an El Niño. 1993 Bureau of Meteorology La Niña year. Some negative IOD events, but is the only recorded case of this happening More information on the Indian Ocean Dipole not all, occur during the same year as a La Niña since 1958. Winter to spring rainfall was can be found on our website at www.bom.gov. event in the Pacific Ocean. La Niña conditions generally close to average across most of au/climate/IOD/about_IOD.shtml further enhance the chances of above average Tasmania, but was below average in pockets rainfall across northern and eastern Tasmania. of the east and northwest. This is in contrast For the current state of the IOD and seasonal In 1975, the strong La Niña event helped deliver to what is usually expected in a negative IOD forecasts, visit www.bom.gov.au/climate/enso/ well above average winter and spring rainfall year. The El Niño conditions, whilst weak with across almost all of Tasmania [See Figure 7]. this event, would have counteracted the 1996: a typical negative IOD year negative IOD to some degree. 1996 was a negative IOD year, when conditions in the Pacific Ocean were neutral (neither El Niño nor La Niña). Winter to spring rainfall was above average across the north and west of Tasmania, and close to average elsewhere [See Figure 8].

Tasmanian Rainfall Deciles – 1 April to 30 September 2012 Distribution based on Gridded Data. Product of the National Climate Centre Winter and spring rainfall 2012 The IOD has been positive since mid-July this year, and is forecast to return to neutral (neither positive nor negative) by the end of spring. Near El Niño conditions across the Pacific Ocean (which have now returned to neutral) further enhanced the likelihood of below average winter rain across northern and eastern Tasmania. Winter rainfall was below average across most of Tasmania, except in the northwest which had close to average winter rainfall. As spring has not yet finished, we will have to wait and see what the overall influence of this year’s positive IOD event has been on spring rainfall. As we have seen, a positive IOD usually leads to below average rainfall across northern Tasmania, but this is not always the case. BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY| 31 Picture: Simon de Salis Picture:

Ringarooma Monthly rainfall in millimetres Grove Monthly rainfall in millimetres Normal Observed Normal Observed 200 120

180 100 160

140 80 120

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40 20 20

0 0 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012

Launceston Airport Monthly rainfall in millimetres Irishtown Monthly rainfall in millimetres Normal Observed Normal Observed 140 200 180 120 160

100 140

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0 0 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 32 | TASMANIAN IRRIGATION

Irrigation in Tasmania: past, present and future Tasmania is creating a future where irrigated agriculture makes an even greater contribution to our economic and social development. uch has been achieved but there is double its capacity. The augmented scheme is funding to build them came from sources that Mmore to do to realise even greater in its inaugural irrigation season this year. happened to be available at that time, such potential from Tasmania’s agricultural land, The two schemes to bring irrigation water to as the $80 million realised from the sale of temperate climate and skilled farmers. parts of the midlands – the Lower South Esk Hobart Airport.” The outcome is that nine Agriculture drives Tasmania’s economy, realising and the Midlands Water schemes – are under new projects have made the first cut. more than $1 billion a year at the farm-gate construction, as is the Kindred North Motton “A new process to develop the projects as alone. Well over half of this wealth is produced Irrigation Scheme in the central northwest. public-private partnerships was developed from just the eight percent of farmed land A further two schemes are in the late develop- which leveraged maximum value from the that is irrigated. ment stage. These are South East Stage 3 and available funding pool,” he said. The wider community benefits from the the proposed Upper Ringarooma Irrigation “Not one of the schemes has been easy but economic activity and employment growth Scheme. Should both these projects proceed TI and its farming partners found ways to generated by irrigated enterprise. Because of to construction, they will bring to nine the ensure they all progressed. this, public involvement in the provision of number of projects developed in partnership irrigation spans the past 40 years starting in between TI and farming communities “Along the way we have demonstrated our the early 1970s with the Cressy Longford throughout the State. success and, I hope, earned a reputation as a can-do outfit.” Irrigation Scheme. TI now is developing Business Cases for a The 1980s saw construction of Craigbourne further six irrigation schemes. Work is well Mr Oldfield said that TI has made a strong Dam, enabling the South East Stage 1 and 2 advanced on three of these: the Scottsdale, submission to the Commonwealth’s schemes, and also a new use for the old Dial Blythe and Southern Highlands projects. infrastructure adviser, Infrastructure Australia, Cascade Dam in the northeast to create the The other three are schemes for the Evandale for further access to public funds which original Winnaleah Irrigation Scheme in 1987. White Hills district, Swan River on the east would be combined with private contribution The Meander Dam followed in 2007, using coast and Circular Head. to realise the remaining schemes. the Meander River to deliver irrigation water Construction of these six projects will depend “I am confident that we will attract the within the valley. In the following years, four in part on sourcing additional public capital. private funding component if we continue to pipeline schemes – Quamby, Caveside, Rubicon TI’s Chief Executive, Chris Oldfield, said that offer projects that are compelling value and Hagley – were built to enable Meander his organisation is vigorously pursuing new propositions for farmers,” he said. Dam water to be taken further afield. capital sources. “The first seven projects developed by TI have Then Tasmanian Irrigation (TI) picked up the “It is worth remembering how far we have attracted more than $46 million from the irrigation baton to realise a new suite of come,” Mr Oldfield said. “My organisation private sector, mainly from farmers, through irrigation schemes as public-private partnerships. was handed 12 projects in 2008 which the purchase of water entitlement.” The Whitemore, Sassafras Wesley Vale and formed the State Government’s Water Great Forester irrigations schemes are in Development Plan, Story: Chris Buza pictures: Simon de Salis their second irrigation season this year. The “These were essentially unscoped and uncosted For more information visit Winnaleah Scheme has been augmented to concepts of unknown viability. The pool of www.tasmanianirrigation.com.au TASMANIAN IRRIGATION | 33

TasmanianT asmanian IrrigationIrrig ation Schemes Overview - Tasmanian IrrigationOctober Schemes 2012 Overview October 2012

Scottsdale Circular Head Sassafras Great Forester Kindred Wesley Vale North Motton

Winnaleah BURNIE

7 DEVONPORTNNPP Scottsdale Dial Blythe 7 Forth7 7 Upper Hagley Ringarooma

Rubicon

LAUNCESTON Caveside 7 Evandale

Meander Lower South Esk Valley Quamby 7Poatina Swan River Whitemore Campbell Town 7 Cressy Longford

Midlands KeyKey to labelslabels

Bothwell Operational Schemes Southern 7 Highlands Ouse South East 7 Stage 1 Proposed Schemes

South East Water sales process Stage 2 South East HOBART 7 Stage 3 Construction phase

Map No: GEN-M0432-000 Date: 18/10/2012 34 | WEED MANAGEMENT

Arum lily, blue periwinkle and sticky weed. Help save Tasmania’s coastline from weeds The State of Tasmania has uch of Tasmania’s coastline is human settlements come environmental Muninhabited, but dotted along it are problems, which must be dealt with if these 2833km of coastline on its numerous settlements. Among them are the values are to be preserved. One of the worst cities of Hobart, Burnie and Devonport and of is weeds. mainland and 2049km on its larger towns like Swansea and Bridport, but There are declared weeds like Boneseed also many secluded and sometimes barely more than 300 smaller (Chrysanthemoides monilifera), English broom known coastal retreats. Many Tasmanians (Cytisus scoparius) and Montpellier broom have spent special time at these places: at a islands – considerably more (Genista monpessulana), Spanish heath (Erica shack, a campsite or a caravan spot. than Victoria and New South lusitanica), African Boxthorn (Lycium Most of Tasmania’s coastline still has great ferocissimum), and the asparagus weeds Wales combined. natural environmental values, but from Bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) and Asparagus fern (Asparagus scandens), but also Weeding the south coast wilderness. many plants that are not declared and are grown quite lawfully in gardens. These can be a tremendous menace if allowed to escape beyond the garden border. The list of such dangerous escapees includes Banana Passionfruit (Passiflora tarminiana), Bluebell Creeper (Billardiera heterophylla), Cape Ivy (Delairea odorata), Montbretia (Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora), Watsonia (Watsonia meriana), Blue Butterfly Bush (Psoralea pinnata), Mirror Bush (Coprosma repens), Arum Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica), Sweet Pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum), Cape Wattle (Paraserianthes lophantha), Arum Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) and Agapanthus (Agapanthus praecox). These plants have all Picture: Wildcare Wildcare SPRATS Picture: been popular in coastal gardens for many WEED MANAGEMENT| 35 years. Some, like agapanthus, may not have been 3. Get permission before removing weeds a problem when deadheaded after flowering, on coastal or bushland reserves or land Seven reasons to eradicate but these days are most often allowed to you do not own. You need to gain environmental weeds on our produce the masses of seed that has led to it permission from the local land manager coastline (From: Coastal being a real thug in native bush. before commencing any work. This can be Council or government departments. Weeds of Tasmania: Are you Coastal weeds cannot be ignored, and every- growing Invaders?) one can take action. You can join (or start) a 4. Plan your weed removal. Gradual removal ‘Friends of...’ or Landcare group to undertake ensures native habitat is not lost, new bare 1. Environmental weeds take over huge weed control work on public land along your areas are not created for more weeds to areas of natural coast and bushland coast. You can change (or influence your colonise and erosion is not caused. (broom, gorse) neighbours to change) some key behaviours 5. Minimise disturbance. Remove isolated 2. They replace habitat for native that lead to weed spread, like no longer planting weeds in areas of good bushland first, rather animals (blackberries, sea spurge) known weedy plants. (You can still plant exotic than tackling a dense infestation. Hand-pull 3. They change the way the coast species but talk to your local plant nursery to plants from moist soil or after rain. Cut and works (marram, sea wheat-grass) ensure you choose plants that won’t wreak paint stems rather than pulling out large 4. They change the shape and ecology havoc.) Other simple improvements help limit plants. Fill in holes with soil and pack down of waterways (willows) infestation of new weeds. These include never firmly. Don’t pull or rip down climbers from dumping your garden waste in the bush and trees as damage can occur to native or non- 5. They hinder the regrowth of natives never dumping aquarium or pond waste into invasive species. (Spanish heath, gorse, boneseed) waterways. Compost your garden waste or 6. They restrict access (blackberries, take it all to an approved municipal green waste 6. Replace with natives. Plant local African boxthorn) site for disposal and dispose of aquarium and provenance species – plants grown from pond waste in sealed plastic bags. local genetic stock. 7. They can be a danger to human health (arum lilies, ivy, foxglove) If you do want to take the further step onto Story and pictures: David Lane the beach or into the scrub to remove weeds, please do, but remember it must be done with care, planning and permission. Here are Blue psoralea. some important points from Coastal Weeds of Tasmania to consider before you start: 1. Check that the plant you’re worried about is a weed and not a native. Get expert advice to make sure you are not removing a native by mistake. 2. Make sure removal is the best option. Some areas with weeds such as beaches, dunes, rivers and creeks may be best left alone. There may be issues like erosion, habitat or Aboriginal heritage sites to consider.

Removing broom from Maria Island pic: Vicki pic: Campbell

Parrots feather aquarium weed.

Awareness is where change for the better starts. Good information and advice are available. Coastal Weeds of Tasmania: Are you growing Invaders? is an excellent resource with good photos of most of our coastal weeds. Visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au and type ‘coastal weeds’ into the search engine to find a copy. Or you can contact your local NRM facilitator, Council weeds officer or the DPIPWE Invasive Species Branch for advice. 36 | HERITAGE TASMANIA A lighthouse in a butter factory As islanders, Tasmanians love their lighthouses. Which was one good reason why the Table Cape lighthouse appeared as the Table Cape Butter Factory brand in the late 19th century.

“The rich pastures of the north-west region Mr Simpson said Heritage Tasmania took great coupled with its port facilities led to the north care when preparing the information which west becoming a prominent dairying region,” supported the listing of the former factory in he said. “The experimentation with dairy the Heritage Register. co-operatives really provided a way that small “An unusual aspect of this listing is that the farmers could transform their milk production historic components of this place exist within into butter which was sold throughout the a modern dairy factory. When we researched north west and the whole State. As individual the company we clearly identified two discrete farmers, they could not have achieved this.” components of the site with historic heritage Mr Simpson said the former dairying values, then we worked in partnership with co-operative and factory had a tremendous the current owner to ensure the registration sense of place and community. did not impact on the modern sections. This “Table Cape Butter Co-operative was a big means the company can go about their employer. They assisted people and community business without the heritage listing adversely groups if they needed help, and were very impacting upon their productivity.” he lighthouse appeared on the butter pack- proactive in growing communities. The process ran smoothly, and the company Taging, and more uniquely, formed a striking “The use of the Table Cape lighthouse as their supported the registration. In 1973 the part of a later 1939 factory building in Wynyard. brand was a clever piece of marketing which former Table Cape Buttery factory merged It still stands, for all to see, and was recently drew on a strong sense of place. with the Duck River Butter Factory in added to the Tasmanian Heritage Register. Smithton. It is now owned by Fonterra, and is “Table Cape, and the lighthouse, is a special site still used for manufacturing dairy products. According to the Chair of the Tasmanian for the local community, very evocative. I think Heritage Council, Dr Dianne Snowden, the as Tasmanians living on an island we have a The lighthouse façade however remains an lighthouse motif adorning the factory is a strong connection with our lighthouses and the important reminder of the first butter factory rare surviving example of product branding people of the north-west associate strongly, in Tasmania, and the role Wynyard played and being incorporated into a building’s features. in particular, with the one at Table Cape.” continues to play in the dairying industry. “For this reason and many others the Heritage Story: Robyn Shaw pictures: Simon de Salis Council added this unusual building along with a 1910 structure on the site to the Heritage Register,” Dr Snowden said. The place is also significant because it was the first co-operative dairy factory in Tasmania, commencing operation in 1892, although this original factory building no longer stands. “The factory was founded by Charles Fenton who was active in community life, and held a seat in State Parliament from 1893 to 1897,” Dr Snowden said. “Fenton researched dairy factory co-operatives in Victoria where they had been very successful, and actively lobbied for the establishment of one in Wynyard.” The Table Cape co-operative model was enthusiastically accepted in Tasmania with 98 subscribers taking out shares in the new venture. “The model was so successful that other dairy factory co-operatives were soon established in nearby Smithton, Burnie, Ulverstone, Devonport and Deloraine,” Dr Snowden said. Heritage Tasmania Research Officer Kim Simpson, who undertook the research supporting the registration, said that the former Table Cape Butter Factory pioneered butter manufacturing on a large scale in Tasmania. BROWSING ANIMAL MANAGEMENT| 37

Help needed with wallaby fence creek crossing designs With one of the Browsing Animal Management Program’s (BAMP) aims being to assist farmers to construct a wallaby fence that will work, BAMP is seeking farmers’ input for the development of effective wallaby fence creek crossing designs.

“ e know from experience that fences firm level base and incorporates features and solutions which will be posted on the Wthat cross creeks, ditches and other such as an apron mesh to stop the animals DPIPWE website www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/ waterways pose particular problems,” said from doing so. managingbrowsingwildlife and also shared BAMP Project Officer Jonathan Knox. Among the creek crossings that BAMP staff around the farming community. “While it is recommended that difficult crossings have observed ‘Waverly Farm’ at Mathinna Story: Jonathon Knox be avoided, this is not always possible, so we shows one of the best designs seen to date are on the lookout for successful creek or (see photo) – but please note this design For more information contact: ditch crossing designs to provide inspiration may not be right for all situations and there Jonathan Knox for landholders and fencers.” may be cheaper ways of construction. Tel: 6233 6556 Email: [email protected] Fellow BAMP Project Officer Drew Lee also Drew pointed out that in another situation a Web: www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au cautioned that landowners need to be sill, such as that shown across the creek bed mindful of water management regulations in the photo, could set up turbulence when undertaking fencing work in creeks resulting in erosion of the creek bed and and gullies. holes under the structure. Any such sill, or “A permanent or temporary barrier or structure any change to the profile of the creek bed that stores, holds back or impedes the flow should be kept as small as possible. Picture: Simon de Salis Picture: of water is deemed to be a ‘dam’ and its “Also gates such as these are likely to need construction should be discussed with your regular checking so they are not holding debris local Regional Water Management Officer. or stuck open or shut. Ease of maintenance is “We are looking for light flexible designs (that a critical element of good design.” are not deemed to be ‘dams’) which are easy If you have any successful creek or ditch to erect and have the capacity to be pushed crossing designs that could provide out of the way without holding back water inspiration to others BAMP would like to or being damaged by flooding and debris.” hear from you. Wallabies are so good at going under fences Information received will help in the that it is essential to ensure the fence has a development of practical design guidelines 38 | TIA Value adding, clusters and food hubs for growth

hree major elements influence the domestic Looking more closely at what growers could the dynamics of cooperation and collaboration. Tand global competitiveness of vegetable do with vegetables other than just fresh Usually an independent organisation or person industries in other countries: value adding, market and snap freezing, some have already facilitates the engagement of local champions Cluster Analysis and Regional Food Hubs begun to look outside the square to to inspire and lead the community. It is well (RFH). While identified by TIA Vegetable alternatives. These include rhubarb converted documented that local economic develop- Centre marketing research, these elements to a health brewed soft drink, and supplying ment is increasingly being led by proactive the most part do not appear to be applied in mashed ten kilo slabs of pumpkin to the oil Local Government Councils providing that Tasmania – or are applied in limited forms. rig market through a major supplier on the initial stage of leadership and encouragement. Tasmanian vegetable growers are struggling mainland. One of the most innovative Regional Food Hubs (RFH) were identified economically, and many are revising their developments comes from a former small in 2006 by the World Bank, and are a model production strategies and business models. family fish processor now turned to of community economic collaboration as This is the result of their declining competitive- powdering vegetables for the health food Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS). Using ness in the global food market, small scale, the market through a national distributor. this concept as a guide the TIA Vegetable high Australian Dollar and ongoing increases Whilst not wanting to simplify the situation, Centre is working with various industry groups in production costs, transport and marketing value adding can provide that extra margin and growers to formulate RFH in Tasmania. costs. Individual and collaborative approaches and in some cases a product that will travel A RFH is a particular type of cluster dealing are needed to reduce costs and capture a better and last longer on the shelf. with food. It is the grouping of growers, greater proportion of the consumer dollar. Cluster Analysis, an area not understood innovators in value adding and all other Innovative solutions are required for long well in Tasmania, is a system that maps a contributors found in a normal supply chain term sustainability – value adding, cluster region or community to identify businesses and placing them in a recognised structure of analysis and regional food hubs are strategies that could link with other businesses to form cooperation. The coordination could be that could contribute. a value chain. Clusters are often mistaken for managed by a locally owned consolidator, working with a regional independent Market Value adding can be a marketing advantage Co-operatives. They are not, but a Intelligence unit. and Tasmanian producers need to examine Co-operative can be part of a Cluster. In closely the benefits of encouraging and essence a Cluster is a group of enterprises, Good market intelligence is required to developing value adding to the Agriculture from different industry sectors, and their establish an effective value adding industry. sector. The wasting of ‘seconds’ and other off- suppliers, across a region that work together This entails establishing a meaningful dialogue specification produce could be drastically for mutual commercial benefit. with potential consumer groups in the global reduced, leading to an increased return to Clusters provide critical mass. The market. Establishing strong relationships and growers and the development of value component parts encouraged to cooperate gaining an understanding of what adding production processes. This, in turn, and collaborate already exist out in the opportunities lie beyond the agents and would provide increased possibilities of jobs community and are brought together to retail chains should be the first priority. and social and economic development within form the Cluster. It’s all about harnessing Although the concept is in its very early rural communities. existing knowledge and skills and fostering stages of development, the Vegetable Centre is aiming to undertake pilot studies in 2013. They will attempt to link the grower to appropriate businesses in the community / region, and with the assistance of an independent Market Intelligence unit, implement this model through various small groups in North West Tasmania. David Wells, Senior Industry Development and Extension officer has been at the forefront of this research for over two years. He is available to discuss his work with growers or groups and is happy to chair a community discussions on his findings and their application. Story: David Wells

Contact David Wells on 0433 442 820 or [email protected] TIA| 39 When flavour is at a premium

Valuable new flavours are being extracted from non-premium Matt with frozen raspberries. raspberries and blackberries in a ground-breaking project that may help the fruit industry value add to their lower grade crop and even turn waste product into profit. esearchers at the University of Tasmania input (stripping rate) and the chemistry behind R(UTAS) have been working with the the production of aroma chemicals were among Cascade Beverage Company and raspberry and the parameters investigated. Not confined to blackcurrant growers on a project which may production aspects, MacTavish-West have potential application in other fruit industries. introduced the final product to major flavour The need to be innovative and produce value- houses in Europe eliciting much interest. The added products has long been recognised by raspberry product in particular has the desired the Fosters group who have installed a Spinning characteristics and commercial enquiries Cone Column (SCC) into their fruit juice have ensued. processing line at the Cascade factory in Growers are continually seeking ways to Tasmania. The SCC is an Australian technology, improve their processes and to remain developed by Flavourtech Technologies (with proactive when looking for future value-adding a pilot-scale SCC plant in Griffith), which uses potential. Notwithstanding the increases in a steam-based stripping process to enable the yield of premium fruit achieved with production of low volume, high concentration optimisation of horticultural practices, not all flavours. fruit is going the make the grade. With the support of HAL, a team comprising researchers from the Perennial Horticulture Many farmers have looked to value-add by Centre at TIA, Industry Partners (Cascade processing fruit that isn’t sold fresh and this under the auspices of Fosters), marketing technology may allow multiple products to be companies (MacTavish-West and Agrimark) and produced from the same waste fruit. Crops applied technology professionals (Flavourtech), that have a great potential for this include has developed new flavour products from stone fruit such as cherries and apricots, but blackcurrant and raspberry which are it could also be applied to other berries or produced in addition to – rather than instead even vegetables. of – the traditional juice lines. It can make good sense for growers not to base Over the previous two years the collaborative their economic projections solely on high yields effort has resulted in the production of of premium grade fruit, particularly in an raspberry and blackcurrant flavours to rival unpredictable environment made more so by those produced by international companies climate change. It is not so much about such as Treatt and Dohler. With prices utilising a waste product as making a return ranging from $10 per litre to as high as $200 from the fruit that has taken as much effort and per litre for premium quality extracts and resources to grow as that sold at a premium. with a projected five percent yield per tonne of mash, there is potential for a significant Story: Dr Matt Gregory financial return from reject fruit. And above: Processing blackcurrants at Cascade. Unlike fresh fruit, the SCC product is stable for long-term storage. The aroma compounds recovered by SCC do not detract from the taste and flavour of down-stream products as most of these impact volatiles are generally lost in the concentration and pasteurisation processes, though some flavour may be added back to augment the juice/puree . The researchers analysed the production and loss of volatiles through the fruit juice and SCC processing line. It was found that high cooking temperatures were resulting in the loss of volatiles and the de-activation of enzymes that had been added to break down pectin. Condenser temperature, the rate of steam 40 | BIOSECURITY Picture: Simon de Salis Picture:

Improving Tasmania’s biosecurity system DPIPWE’s Biosecurity and those biosecurity programs that operate pre- they can use in their respective industries. border and post-border. Others are in the process of doing so. And Product Integrity Division 15 of Tasmania’s primary industry The restructure essentially reflects the lessons organizations have on their own initiative (BPID) has undergone a learned during the first five years of the formed the Primary Industries Biosecurity Division. The aim is to improve the minor restructure. Action Alliance to increase industry biosecurity system and maximise resources. participation in matters of biosecurity. PID was formed in 2007 as one of the A Strategy and Planning branch has been key ideas in the first Tasmanian Industry can help strengthen our biosecurity B created which brings together the existing Biosecurity Strategy. The point was to have a system in many ways that are simple and legislative/policy, emergency response, specialist division within DPIPWE that painless. For example, the plant pest communications, finance and IT functions so managed the whole of the ‘biosecurity surveillance system is currently run almost that these services are available across the continuum’. This includes not only the entirely by Quarantine Tasmania, who place biosecurity activities at the border, but also all whole Division. hundreds of insect traps at strategic sites More significantly, from a community around the State and check them regularly perspective, the various field services within for any sign of exotic insect pests. Some BPID have been united in a single Biosecurity producers in the right locations could easily and Quarantine Services branch. Some field site and check daily additional traps. The service positions have been lost in recent cover of the surveillance program would years, so it makes sense to pool the thus expand and any pest incursion would remaining field staff. Field services include be identified quickly at the industry sites, various quarantine services, pest surveillance, maximizing the chances of eradication. There NLIS, food safety monitoring, Agvet chemical are many similarly simple ways to work together in biosecurity. monitoring, animal welfare investigations and animal disease surveillance. The new BPID structure is driven by the intention to maximize the biosecurity effort There has been some speculation that the from the resources available, not by a need changes within BPID mean that DPIPWE is to cut costs. Indeed, BIPD expects that the expecting industry to take on more biosecurity system in Tasmania will become biosecurity responsibilities. Actually, industry even stronger. stakeholders have already expressed a wish to be more actively involved in biosecurity. Many organisations have already worked with BIPD to develop biosecurity plans that For all your Advertising enquiries, please contact Megan Farrer 0412 052 667

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