A Living Murray condition monitoring project for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site

Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest 2015-16

FINAL REPORT

Consultant: Permits: Paula Ward (BSc) DELWP Research Permit 10007637 (valid 13/08/2015 – 30/07/2018) Ecologist OEH Purchase Order 4500609156 (valid spring 2015) 4 Eyre Court OEH Purchase Order 4500619302 (valid summer 2015-16) KIALLA VIC 3631 OEH Purchase Order 4500630617 (valid autumn-winter 2016)

Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

Copyright: © State of New South Wales 2016 through the Office of Environment & Heritage With the exception of the Commonwealth Coat of Arms, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority logo, the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage logo, all photographs, graphics and trademarks, this publication is provided under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.).

It is preferred that you attribute this publication (and any material sourced from it) using the following wording: Publication title: Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 - Final report Source: Licensed from NSW Office of Environment & Heritage under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia Licence.

Disclaimer The information contained in this publication is intended for general use, to assist public knowledge and discussion and to help improve the integrated and sustainable management of the Basin’s natural water resources. It may include general statements based on scientific research. Readers are advised that this information may be incomplete or unsuitable for use in specific situations. Before taking any action or decision based on the information in this publication, readers should seek expert professional, scientific and technical advice and form their own view of the applicability and correctness of the information.

To the extent permitted by law, the Commonwealth of Australia, the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (including its employees and consultants), and the author of this publication do not assume liability of any kind whatsoever resulting from any person’s use or reliance upon the content of this publication.”

This project was funded by The Living Murray initiative of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority via the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage.

The Living Murray is a joint initiative funded by the New South Wales, Victorian, South Australian, Australian Capital Territory and Commonwealth governments, coordinated by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority.

Report citation: Ward, P.A. (2016) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, Moama, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 518pp.

Acknowledgments: Appreciation is extended to Keith Ward for field assistance and to Rick Webster and Daniel Basham (NSW NPWS) for managing the contract as client.

Note: All dates used in this report follow the format dd/mm/yyyy.

Cover Photographs: Spring: Flower of Water Ribbons (Triglochin procera) at Top Island, Barmah Forest (18/10/2015). Summer: Woodland Swamp-daisy (Brachyscome basaltica) at Top Lake Q2.1, Barmah Forest (10/01/2016). One of the very few species extending above ground level as it was not grazed. Autumn: First observation of introduced Marsh Ludwigia (Ludwigia palustris) at Black Engine Lagoon, Millewa Forest (09/04/2016). Winter: Frost on Common Spike-sedge (Eleocharis acuta) at Algaboia Plain, Millewa Forest (13/06/2016).

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CONTENTS:

1. SUMMARY:...... 1 2. INTRODUCTION: ...... 5 3. METHODS: ...... 11 4. RESULTS & DISCUSSION: ...... 15 4.1 CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE 2015-16 MONITORING PERIOD: ...... 15 4.1.1 Meteorological Conditions: ...... 15 4.1.2 Hydrological Conditions: ...... 16 4.2 UNDERSTOREY VEGETATION MONITORING RESULTS FOR 2015-16: ...... 21 4.2.1 Summary of 2015-16 vegetation dataset: ...... 21 4.2.2 Summary of vegetation response by season: ...... 24 4.2.3 Trends of vegetation response over the past ten years of monitoring: ...... 55 4.2.3 Other observations: ...... 59 5. CONCLUSIONS:...... 67 5.1 GENERAL: ...... 67 5.2 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS: ...... 69 6. ACHIEVEMENTS AGAINST ORIGINAL STATED PROJECT OBJECTIVES:...... 73 7. ACHIEVEMENTS AGAINST ORIGINAL STATED PROJECT OUTCOMES:...... 77 8. REFERENCES: ...... 81 8.1 PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS:...... 81 8.2 REPORTS: ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. APPENDIX 1: BARMAH-MILLEWA FOREST VEGETATION QUADRAT LOCATIONS ...... 89 APPENDIX 2: 2015-16 QUADRAT DATA ...... 103 APPENDIX 3: LIST OF FLORA SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE 2015-16 MONITORING PERIOD, SEGREGATED BY SEASON OBSERVED (INCLUDING CONSERVATION STATUS) ...... 163 APPENDIX 4: LIST OF FLORA SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE 2015-16 MONITORING PERIOD, SEGREGATED BY STUDY SITE OBSERVED ...... 169 APPENDIX 5: QUADRAT PHOTO-POINTS IN 2015-16 COMPARED WITH PREVIOUS MONITORED SEASONS ...... 175 APPENDIX 6: COMPARISON OF NEW 2015-16 QUADRAT VEGETATION DATA AGAINST ALL PRE-EXISTING DATA FOR THAT SITE ...... 393 APPENDIX 7: GRAPHICAL DISPLAY OF EACH QUADRAT’S CHANGE BETWEEN 2006 – 2016, BASED ON TOTAL SPECIES, TERRESTRIAL SPECIES, WETLAND SPECIES, PERCENTAGE WETLAND SPECIES AND PERCENTAGE NATIVENESS...... 465

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APPENDIX 8: ECOLOGICAL VEGETATION CLASSES OF EACH BARMAH- MILLEWA UNDERSTOREY QUADRAT ...... 517

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1. SUMMARY:

This document represents the final report that summarises the activities and results of monitoring understorey vegetation at 11 sentinel wetlands within the Barmah-Millewa Forest during 2015-16 as part of the Murray Darling Basin Commission’s The Living Murray Initiative Condition Monitoring Program. The year’s program successfully re-monitored all transects that were established and monitored ten years previously (P.Ward 2007d, 2008a, 2009d, 2010d, 2011d, 2012d, 2013a, 2014d), some of which also included historic Barmah Forest transects established and surveyed between 1990-1993 (K.Ward 1991 & 1994). Comparisons of this year’s data (2015-16) to the previous monitoring data has been made in this report, although detailed statistical analysis is being performed by a linked project with Deakin University and the University of Canberra via ACEAS, and will be reported at a later date.

The Barmah-Millewa Forest understorey vegetation community in 2015-16 experienced mostly much drier and warmer than average weather conditions where not otherwise influenced by late-winter floods and environmental water allocations throughout spring (with some sites also experiencing extended environmental flooding into late summer for waterbird breeding outcomes). The floodplain initially displayed a sharp demarcation line where abundant understorey vegetation grew under the influence of flooding compared to higher sites that remained dry with largely senesced understorey vegetation, although this weaned as flooding subsided and hot dry weather conditions dried the floodplain. However, a wet late-autumn break into early winter has transformed the broader floodplain into a bright green carpet of sprouting plants.

Overall, a total of 162 species from 52 families were found during the monitoring program in 2015-16, with 63% being native species. The bulk of the diversity was from dicotyledonous species (67%), and those of terrestrial damp and terrestrial dry Plant Function Group (63%). Variation exists in the number of seasons that the various species were found, again highlighting the need to undertake surveys no less than once each season. Most wetland species were native (88%), whereas less than half of terrestrial species were native (41%). Three quarters of species found in all four seasons were native (73%), whereas under one half of species found in only a single season were native (45%). These figures accord remarkably similar to previous wet years of similar analysis, but currently with slightly greater percentage of native species.

This year’s dataset continues to show that higher, drier, terrain tend to be more prone to colonisation by exotic terrestrial (mesic and xeric) species, whereas the more flood-prone regions contain a higher proportion of native wetland species. Sites where flooding had occurred in winter/spring promoted growth and flowering from a diversity of wetland vegetation species that would not have otherwise occurred to the same extent

Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) was found to have variable growth response this year. The reason that J. ingens continues to increase at some sites but decrease at others is not accurately known, although it may be related to stem age, moisture availability and shading from intra- and inter-specific competition.

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Pseudoraphis spinescens (Moira Grass) continues to have a patchy distribution and in low cover abundance at nearly all monitored study site wetlands. Water depth and general flood return frequency alone does not appear to account for major quadrat differences in presence or abundance of the species. A new CSIRO project (Moira Grass Environmental Water Decision Framework) is now intending to investigate this further, and likely to involve additional monitoring, experimentation and more detailed analysis.

Contraction of the open treeless plains from Eucalyptus and Juncus incursions remains of concern, but the reduction of P. spinescens as a previous dominant species of the plains appears to be due to unfavourable flood regimes rather than having been taken over by the taller competing species (as the occasional areas of invading species establishment does not directly align with areas of poor P. spinescens growth). Continued improvements in providing selected desired flood regimes for P. spinescens remains of priority, while state agency programs of removing newly establishing Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) from the treeless plains continues to be required in the interim. Control of Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) in similar areas also needs to occur, although the species requires encouragement in other areas where it is desired, such as at colonial waterbird nesting sites where it is used as nesting substrate.

The finding this year of Ludwigia palustris* (Marsh Ludwigia) by this project at Black Gate Lagoon represents the first record of this exotic aquatic weed in Barmah-Millewa Forest. Further investigation is required to determine the level of threat that this species may pose to the wetland environment with commensurate control activities to be undertaken.

No new sightings were made of Lilaea scilloides (Flowering Quillwort), an exotic wetland plant listed as a “very high risk weed” that was first opportunistically observed by this project in Barmah Forest two years ago. However, the sites where it was previously present had remained dry for most of this year, and hence repeat inspection will be required following sustained wet weather that promotes the appearance of the species.

Of other concern is the anecdotal observations of the exotic wetland plant Sagittaria platyphylla (Arrowhead) continuing to expand in extent in many waterways within Barmah- Millewa Forest. Although some effective control measures have been undertaken by state agencies in at some locations over recent years, further urgent control activities are required in attempt to reduce the spread of this highly invasive wetland species.

The understorey vegetation at monitored sites of Barmah-Millewa Forest has therefore otherwise displayed a return to some ‘normality’ following the extremes of Millenneum Drought in 2015-2009, extremes of prolonged and deep flooding in 2010-2012, and then a series of seasonal low-level flooding in winter-spring alternating with dry summer-autumn periods. Species have now largely returned in the deeper flooded regions of the floodplain that had largely become bereft of plant cover during the drought and during the first year of major flooding, with native understorey diversity now relatively high in many shallow flooded regions. Exotic terrestrial species remain common in higher, un-flooded and usually disturbed sites, although a stronger response from many native species has also been observed through an increase in cover and flowering. Concern remains for the relatively poor response from Pseudoraphis spienscens (Moira Grass). Dry summer-autumn conditions followed by annual

Page 2 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report deep winter-spring flooding appear to remain the best management regime for the wetlands in Barmah-Millewa Forest, although greater control of grazing pressure is also required.

A variety of management recommendations have been made, including the need to:  Promote winter-spring flooding over a broad region of the floodplain prior to implementing a seasonal summer-autumn dry regime.  Implement stated strategies to either encourage or discourage Juncus ingens, depending on the desirability of the species in a particular wetland.  Undertake targeted inspections for some recently discovered new and emerging weeds.  Increase control activities against a variety of pest plants and animals.  Further encourage researchers to undertake specific investigations into Pseudorpahis spinescens autecology, and also on impacts of grazing on Floodplain Grassy Wetlands.  Undertake remedial works on the constructed sills on Steamer Plain to re-prevent unseasonal flows from affecting the wetland.  Increase attempts to prevent off-road vehicular access, especially onto open wetland environments.  Continue seasonal monitoring into 2016-17 to document plant response following the recent breakdown of El Nino and expectation of wetter conditions with La Nina that is now forming, plus planned releases of environmental water into Barmah-Millewa Forest.

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2. INTRODUCTION:

The Living Murray Initiative (MDBC 2003, 2005a) identified six Murray River environmental assets as Icon Sites where the need to achieve an improved understanding of the flood requirements and flood responses of flora has been recognised. This objective has been refined in Barmah-Millewa Forest through the subsequent development of the Barmah- Millewa Environmental Management Plan (MDBC 2005b; MDBA 2012a), with understorey health being a major component.

A number of recent projects have provided useful benchmarks. These include assessment of understorey condition of Ecological Vegetation Classes in Barmah State Park (CEM 2003), detailed mapping of understorey vegetation communities in Barmah Forest (Frood 2006), mapping Eucalyptus camaldulensis health via satellite imagery and ground correlations (Cunningham et al. 2006, 2007, 2009a,b, 2011), mapping exotic Sagittaria platyphylla distribution and spread (Maxwell 2006 & 2008), mapping Juncus ingens and Eucalyptus camaldulensis spread in the Barmah-Moira Lakes region of Barmah-Millewa Forest (Maxwell 2009), agency monitoring programs such as understorey fuel load and condition assessments (Wehner et al. 2009) and mapping of Moira Grass on open plains (Vivian et al. 2015).

An important adjunct to this program was identified in 2006 with the opportunity to re- establish transect sites that had originally and progressively been established by the then Department of Conservation & Environment in 1990 & 1991 (and had been monitored through to 1994) within five major wetlands in Barmah Forest (P.Ward 2007d). Funding for the 2006-07 program was provided by The Living Murray’s (TLM) Intervention Monitoring Program after the acceptance of a funding proposal by this consultant, which included the establishment of an additional site (P.Ward 2007d). The 2006-07 year was a dry year with no study sites being flooded, with heavy cattle and horse grazing impacts being observed on the understorey species. Comparison with the previous dataset had shown some sites had altered significantly in structural dominance and diversity over the 12-15 year period.

Opportunity to continue the monitoring in Barmah Forest, and expand the study sites into Millewa Forest, was granted by the TLM Condition Monitoring Taskforce in 2007. In doing so, this also provided an opportunity to monitor understorey vegetation following the recent removal of cattle from Barmah Forest (the first time for approximately 160 years), and provided monitoring over a contrasting year that contained some rainfall (although still no flooding). The 2007-08 monitoring was reported only as a final report (P.Ward 2008a), while analysis of all years to date was published as a scientific paper (Stokes et al. 2010a&b). The project’s findings strengthened those collected in the previous year to continue to contrast enormously from the monitoring of those sites in 1991 to 1994. Some concern was expressed over the finding of Juncus ingens degrading at wetlands that are used during flood events as nesting substrate for waterbirds, with the recommendation made to re-flood such sites at the next available opportunity to re-gain their habitat value. This subsequently formed the basis for the delivery of environmental water allocations by the managing agencies.

The same 11 sites monitored in 2007-08 sites were retained and re-monitored each season in the following five years (up to and including 2012-13), with the exception of Spring 2009 due to late funding notification (Ward 2009d, 2010d, 2011d, 2012d, 2013a). Funding restrictions

Page 5 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report from NSW in 2013-14 therefore meant only photo-point monitoring in Millewa Forest could be achieved in that year, although full monitoring in Barmah Forest was retained by the Victorian government. However, in the following year (2014-15), funding was halted by both state agencies and hence no monitoring in either forest was undertaken, apart from staff of Goulburn Broken CMA maintaining the collection of photographs from the Barmah Forest photo-points during that year. Full funding was restored in 2015-16 to permit both Barmah and Millewa forests to again be fully monitored. As such, this year’s undertaking of the understorey vegetation monitoring project represents a spread of ten years, during which time large variety in climatic (Figure 1) and hydrological conditions were experienced (Figure 2).

The 2007-08 year was a period of continuing drought conditions (apart from some high summer rainfall totals) with a complete lack of flooding at all sites. The understorey vegetation continues to exist as a relatively low diversity and abundance, despite no cattle grazing having occurred in Barmah Forest for the first time all year. The new Millewa Forest study sites supported this observation.

The 2008-09 year was characterised by continuing drought conditions despite some high rainfall totals experienced in November and December. A number of early colonising species (such as Senecio quadridentatus) and terrestrial weeds (such as Bromus, Medicago and Trifolium species) had responded to minor winter rains. The small number of aquatic plants (such as Triglochin and Myriophyllum) that had begun to emerge from the ground had mostly senesced by mid-spring because of ensuring dry conditions. Even ‘weedy’ species (such as Senecio and Sonchus) wilted before having completed flowering. A number of annual weed species sprouted following the late-spring & early-summer rains, although these were already senescing in January because of hot, dry conditions. Flowering did occur in a number of species, but biomass remained distinctly low.

The 2009-10 year was characterised by some minor environmental water allocation (EWA) releases to selected wetlands as a drought refuge objective in spring 2009. This was followed by some months of above average rainfall totals in late-spring, summer and autumn. But despite the periods of high rainfall, no natural flooding occurred during the financial year and hence the majority of wetlands not influenced by the EWA releases remained dry. Juncus ingens was found to have degraded to the point of collapsing at non-flooded sites where drought conditions had prevailed for four years. Only where flooded had J. ingens responded with strong fresh growth and species composition become strongly dominated by native wetland plants.

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Figure 1: Echuca temperature (monthly mean) and rainfall (monthly total) for 2006-2016 (raw data from BoM 2016d).

Figure 2: River Murray hydrograph (downstream of Yarrawonga) for 2006-2016, representing the period in which the Barmah-Millewa understorey vegetation monitoring project has been undertaken (raw flow data from MDBA 2016f).

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The 2010-11 year was a very significant year where the drought broke (experiencing twice the average annual rainfall) resulting in widespread and prolonged natural flooding augmented by a series of environmental water allocation (EWA) releases to maintain waterbird breeding. This broke an unprecedented drought sequence in Barmah-Millewa Forest for the past 105 years of records, and included the largest December flood peak ever recorded (resulting in what is expected to be the most oxygen depleted and prolonged blackwater event from the forest into the Murray River over the same period). Most sentinel wetland quadrats established by this project were flooded, with the lowest elevated sites remaining flooded for the full 12 months. As such, the year contrasts very strongly to the previous four years of monitoring that had occurred mostly during extreme drought conditions. Native species diversity was greatest where flooding was shallow or temporary, with a succession of different wetland and terrestrial species occurring over time. By contrast, very low plant diversity was usually found at the deeper region of wetlands where flooding persisted throughout the whole year, with some sites having no species present (for the first time in five years of seasonally undertaking monitoring since 2005). Five years of extreme drought conditions at these sites prior to deep protracted flooding for much of the year appears to have been unfavourable for most wetland species.

The 2011-12 year experienced extended periods of heavy rainfall, and in most quadrats, prolonged flooding. Large flood peaks occurring during the normal winter-spring flood season between July to December, but uncharacteristically also by an unprecedented large flood occurring in early-March (briefly peaking at 62,000ML/d from Yarrawonga that re-flooded approximately half of Barmah-Millewa Forest). Fortunately the finding last year (2010-11) that many prolonged flooded wetlands had very low numbers of plants was found to have started to shift with colonisation by at least a number of early-colonising species to re-boost quadrat diversity. Juncus ingens was found to be increasing growth at most locations where it is already established, reversing the trend of decline observed during the monitored drought years of 2005-2009. Interestingly, strong growth of Phragmites australis also occurred where it appeared to suppress the growth and spread of J. ingens, although this is not considered as a suitable alternative given that the reed similarly suppresses other wetland plants at locations where it dominates. In contrast to these tall emergents, Pseudoraphis spinescens had responded very poorly to the flooding of 2011-12, which is surprising given that the flood timing and depth was within the ‘known’ preferred band for the species and reduced grazing pressure.

The 2012-13 year was characterised by a wet start with high rainfall totals causing late-winter and early-spring flooding after a short dry finish to the previous autumn. Conditions had then remained relatively dry for most of the year, before concluding with a wet June. Although rainfall totals were not high in spring, frequent small showers kept the broader forest moist and green. Two major flood peaks occurred in winter (river flows up to 53,000ML/d in July and 41,000ML/d in Aug-Sep), followed by two smaller secondary peaks in spring (22,000ML/d and 17,000ML/d in Sep-Oct). J. ingens has continued to show strong growth in 2012-13, although a decrease in cover abundance was recorded late in the year following summer/autumn drying conditions and most sites. The response of P. spinescens was mixed, with previous strongholds (such as Steamer Plain Q2.3 and Top Lake Q1.1 & 2.1) have yet to recover. Only at Little Rushy Swamp Q2.2 has P. spinescens grown from negligible levels in 2006-10 to dominate in spring 2010 to summer 2012. Reasons for this rapid increase in cover

Page 8 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report abundance is uncertain because the site had experienced four years of non-flooded conditions as did the other sites where P. spinescens was previously found.

The 2013-14 year was characterised by series of large natural flood spikes that provided continuous overbank flows in late-winter/early-spring which was then maintain via release of environmental water allocations by government authorities until early summer, and until late summer for Boals Deadwoods wetland (to ensure a colonial waterbird breeding event successfully completed nesting). Weather conditions during the financial year with the first three months of the financial year receiving average to slightly above average rainfall, while December and the last three months of the financial year received substantially above average rainfall (two of the months having 2.5 and 2.8 times the average monthly totals). Otherwise the remaining middle of year months were generally much drier than average. Only photo-point monitoring was undertaken in Millewa Forest during 2013-14 year, while full understorey vegetation data collection was continued in Barmah Forest. Flooding in winter- spring of 2013-14 was found to have promoted a relatively large diversity and cover response of species at most inundated sites. However most regions that used to be dominated by P. spinescens during both wet and dry flood phases now has very little remaining. But a finding of recent P. spinescens germinants (either from seedbank or from residual root fragments) does provide an encouraging sign that with a return to appropriate flood regimes, and if grazing pressure can be reduced, that the plains may once again be dominated by this floodplain specialist grass. The finding of two isolated populations of Lilaea scilloides, an exotic wetland plant listed as a “very high risk weed” resulted in management agency undertaking immediate control activities to prevent further spread of this new weed species before it had further opportunity to spread in Barmah Forest.

The 2014-15 year was unfortunately not monitored by this project in Barmah or Millewa Forest due to funding shortfalls, although the understorey photo-point monitoring in Barmah Forest was continued by Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority staff.

Fortunately, reinstatement of funding in 2015-16 has now permitted the understorey vegetation monitoring project to recommence at all Barmah and Millewa forest sentinel study sites, which represents a span of ten years where Barmah Forest study sites have been monitored in nine of those years and Millewa Forest study sites monitored for eight of those years.

As such, the project has achieved the Barmah-Millewa Forest Condition Monitoring program stated aims of: a) Providing a suitable wetland understorey monitoring program within Barmah- Millewa Forest (initially following monitoring recommendations by TLM 2005 and McCarthy et al. 2006); b) Appraising understorey vegetation response to flooding (and other variables, such as reduced grazing pressure) by measuring species diversity, cover and flowering ability within existing sentinel transect sites in both Barmah and Millewa forests; c) Complimenting broader monitoring programs (e.g., red gum inventories, hydrographic recorder correlations, waterbird monitoring and hydrodynamic

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modelling) by providing data on understorey vegetation and other monitored attributes such as site water depths; d) Providing enhanced quantitative evidence of species variation on Moira Grass plains (especially change since first monitored 26 years ago); e) Providing quantitative and qualitative information to support recommendations for water management activities; f) Monitoring post-fire recovery of a typical wetland system by continued monitoring of transects recently established at two burnt sites; g) Permitting accurate reporting of understorey wetland health (and of other monitored variables) in the Barmah-Millewa Forest Water Management Annual Report.

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3. METHODS:

The following main activities and methods were employed by this project: a) All 11 Barmah-Millewa study sites that were monitored in the previous years (Ward 2008a, 2009d, 2010d, 2011d, 2012d, 2013a) were re-surveyed this financial year. This included the six Barmah Forest study sites that had also been monitored by this project in 2006-07 (Ward 2007d), of which five had been first established and monitored by K.Ward in 1990-1994 (Ward 1991&1994). The Barmah Forest study sites are located at Boals Deadwoods, Top Island ‘Burnt Site’, Top Island ‘Original Site’, Little Rushy Swamp, Top Lake and Steamer Plain, whilst the Millewa study sites are located at Wathours Lagoon, Reed Beds Swamp, Black Gate Lagoon, Duck Lagoon, and Algaboia Plain (Appendices 1 & 2). b) Each study site had sampling confined to two permanent transects crossing three distinct understorey vegetation zones in wetland systems that are typical of those found at the Barmah-Millewa Forest, and whose conservation significance is subject to greatest wetland management interest (DCE 1992, DSE 2003&2008, MDBC 2005b, MDBA 2012a). The only exception is at Steamer Plain where the two transects cross four understorey vegetation zones so as to continue monitoring the same sites of K.Ward from 1992-1994 (Ward 1994), and at Wathours Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp where transects were extended in 2012-13 into deeper zones of the wetlands.

Transects were originally established semi-randomly (randomised within a pre-selected area based on access and representative vegetation zone) ascending from the wetland floor to surrounding higher terrain. The transects aimed to cross the three major vegetation zones of Juncus ingens/Pseudoraphis spinescens, Paspalidium jubiflorum and Carex tereticaulis that typically dominate the wetland environment. As such, the transects are of variable length depending on the distance to adequately sample within the discrete vegetation zones, although typically are less than 200m in length and no less than 30m from one another (generally 50-100m apart, depending on site space available).

A 20m x 20m quadrat was placed in each vegetation zone of each transect, and therefore each wetland had a total of six quadrats (eight at Steamer Plain, Wathours Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp), totalling 72 permanent 400m2 quadrats. All quadrats are marked using wooden pegs at the quadrat corners with a steel star-picket located at the photo-point corner, and the location recorded from a GPS reading taken from the photo-point corner (quadrat coordinates and spatial maps documented in Appendix 1). In addition, a steel tent-peg has been driven below surface level at the photo-point corner of each quadrat to permit re-locating by metal-detector if the above ground picket were to be lost. Quadrats are labelled as ‘Transect Number . Quadrat Number’, commencing in the lowest (deepest) elevated region of the wetland. As such, quadrats are recorded as 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 (and 1.4 and 2.4 at Steamer Plain). Only at Wathours Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp, where transects were extended in 2010-11 into deeper regions,

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have quadrat numbering had to commence from zero, hence quadrat number 1.0 and 2.0 now also exist these two wetlands. c) Monitoring of understorey vegetation was undertaken seasonally (therefore on four occasions throughout the financial year), aiming to be undertaken in the mid-season month with the exception of winter when monitoring was undertaken in June so as to fit within the financial year. d) The original sampling method of K.Ward (Ward 1991,1994) continued to be re-adopted. This meant documenting the cover abundance of all species present within ten 1m2sample-units thrown randomly within the confines of each 20m x 20m permanent quadrat (therefore represents a total of 720 sample unit measures per season). Flora present were identified to species level (where possible) in the field without removing the plant. At times, however, identification meant that a small piece of the plant was required to be removed for closer examination of its key diagnostic attributes or retained for later taxonomic verification. Trampling within the quadrat was minimised as far as was practical.

The abundance of each species found in each sample unit was recorded using visual projected percentage cover estimates, coded into one of 12 categories (Table 1). Only alive (usually green) material was recorded, with senescent or dead material being considered as part of the ‘Leaf Litter’ cover. Regarding senescent material as ‘Leaf Litter’ is particularly important to capture response of perennial species such as Juncus ingens or Carex tereticaulis, which retains considerable senesced biomass when not actively growing, which would otherwise mask the response to flooding if total standing vegetation cover estimates were used.

The visual cover estimate was recorded for each individual species within the sample unit, and hence overlapping species meant that the cover estimate for the sample unit could exceed 100% but for the individual species could not exceed 100%. This is an important distinction, and permits the response of each species to be tracked independently and not influenced by the potential masking of cover generated by taller species. Bare ground, leaf litter and open water were recorded as the remaining space observed not occupied by live species).

Subsequent statistics of species composition was undertaken by re-converting the recorded cover estimate codes to their corresponding mid-point value (also in Table 1). Species in flower were noted for each quadrat.

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Table 1: Categories used in documenting the visual estimated cover abundance of each plant species found during the monitoring program (adapted from K.Ward 1991, 1994). Numbers in parenthesis represent the mid-point percentage cover estimate value used in subsequent statistical analysis. 1 = <1% (0.5%) 5 = 21-30% (25.5%) 9 = 61-70% (65.5%) 2 = 1-5% (3.0%) 6 = 31-40% (35.5%) 10 = 71-80% (75.5%) 3 = 6-10% (8.0%) 7 = 41-50% (45.5%) 11 = 81-90% (85.5%) 4 = 11-20% (15.5%) 8 = 51-60% (55.5%) 12 = 91-100% (95.5%)

e) Photo-points were established at each quadrat (retaining those established in Barmah Forest in 2006-07 and Millewa Forest in 2007-08) to permit a photographic record to be taken in the same orientation on each sampling occasion (orientation at each quadrat is documented in Appendix 1). Each quadrat was photographed at the time of monitoring during each of the four seasons monitored (Appendix 5) to supplement the quantitative data collected at the time (Appendix 2). Adherence to the same photo-point orientation was achieved by reference to photos taken on previous sampling runs. f) Basic water quality parameters (pH, salinity, turbidity, temperature) were measured in- situ with a calibrated Hanna pocket combo probe and Waterwatch turbidity tube where quadrats were found flooded (or any distinct surface water) at the time of monitoring. g) K.Ward (Ward 1994) had described most quadrat soil properties in Barmah Forest, in which generally uniform medium to heavy clays are present throughout nearly all sites, hence no attempt was made to re-assay quadrat soil properties during the current monitoring program. No allowance was made to undertake such a survey at any of the Millewa Forest sites, although visually similar soil properties appear to exist (this could be assayed in future years if re-monitored). h) A detailed progress report was prepared following each season’s monitoring, and was submitted to the Icon Site Monitoring Coordinator within two weeks of the end of the calendar month monitored to provide, in a timely manner, the results of surveys and recommendations for water management to suit wetland understorey vegetation requirements. This final report presents the collective results from the financial year (with confirmed plant identifications) with comparison to previous years of data. i) Victorian and NSW authorities have been provided with details of vegetation monitoring and opportunistic fauna records for formal databases, as per permit requirements.

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4. RESULTS & DISCUSSION:

4.1 Conditions associated with the 2015-16 monitoring period:

4.1.1 Meteorological Conditions:

The 2015-16 year was characterised by a strong El Nino event, providing much warmer and drier than average conditions for most of the year. Only January, May and June experienced greater than average rainfall conditions, although the annual total was 78% of average (BoM 2016b; Table 2; Figure 3).

Of particular significance was extremely low rainfall in the preceding 6 to 7 week period prior to the spring monitoring fieldwork undertaken in mid-October, and although January did receive around 10% more rainfall than the average for that month, most of this occurred only 4 to 6 days prior to the January vegetation monitoring observations and therefore the floodplain flora remained more reflective of the previous dry conditions as the vegetation had inadequate time to exhibit much response (Figure 3). Autumn monitoring undertaken in mid- April also occurred after a very dry period, with three weeks having elapsed since a day of ‘decent’ rainfall occurred (12mm on 18/03/2016). As such, only the winter monitoring activities undertaken in early June followed wet conditions that occurred throughout May.

Table 2: Departure from mean monthly temperature and precipitation data for Echuca* in 2015-16 (raw daily data from BoM 2016a and average data from BoM 2016b; deficiencies calculations by author)

Month Min Max Raindays Rainfall Fraction of Temp Temp (>1mm) Av. rainfall Jul-15 -1.6 -0.1 -12.1 0.3 70.4% Aug-15 0.2 -0.5 -19.8 -0.8 52.9% Sep-15 -1.6 1.4 -19.2 -1.7 50.8% Oct-15 2.1 6.8 -36.9 -4.3 11.9% Nov-15 1.1 2.3 -4.2 0.2 87.1% Dec-15 2.5 3.7 -17.3 -1.4 41.0% Jan-16 1.4 1.3 3.9 1.4 111.7% Feb-16 0.2 1.9 -9.7 -1.4 60.1% Mar-16 2.2 4.1 -17.6 -1.9 41.3% Apr-16 1.3 3.2 -8.7 -1.7 73.0% May-16 2.2 1.0 43.7 3.8 208.4% Jun-16 0.3 -0.5 12.7 5.8 129.7% Total sum 10.3 24.6 -85.2 -1.7 938.2% Total av. 0.9 2.1 -7.1 -0.1 78.2%

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Figure 3: Echuca temperature and precipitation for 2015-16, exhibiting relationship to vegetation monitoring periods (raw data from BoM 2016a).

4.1.2 Hydrological Conditions: Despite the local low rainfall totals, some low level forest flooding occurred late-July until the end of October from release of environmental water as part of the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder’s translucency watering program, augmented by some natural flooding arising from some brief periods of high rainfall totals in the Ovens River catchment (MDBA 2015b,c). The highest peak releases from Yarrawonga Weir during this time were 16,300ML/d on 06/08/2015 and 15,250ML/d on 04/09/2015, before then being maintained around the 12,000 to 14,000ML/d level (Figure 4).

Following the cessation of environmental water deliveries to most of the forest, smaller specific deliveries were maintained into Boals Deadwoods wetland in Barmah Forest and Gulpa Creek wetlands in Millewa Forest for maintaining waterbird breeding until the end of January (MDBA 2016b). During this period, river levels remained below bank capacity with no surplus flow events (such as rain rejection flooding) having occurred (MDBA 2016b). Combined with the low rainfall conditions, most of the forest exhibited strong demarcation where influenced by prior surface flooding compared to areas that were not, as evidenced by often sharp boundary lines of green understorey vegetation on the floodplain

Monitoring results in 2015-16 therefore reflect a vegetation community that had experienced mostly very dry conditions where not otherwise influenced by surface flooding associated with environmental watering.

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Figure 4: River Murray hydrograph (downstream of Yarrawonga) for 2015-16, exhibiting relationship to the summer vegetation monitoring period (raw flow data from MDBA 2016f).

All eleven study sites were found to have at least been partially flooded in spring, with ponding at some quadrats retaining at least some shallow inundation into summer (and throughout the year at the deep billabong-shaped wetland at Black Gate Lagoon) (Figure 5; Table 3). Only Boals Deadwoods wetland in Barmah Forest had all quadrats flooded in spring, whereas another eight wetlands had the lowest two pairs of quadrats (or nearly so) flooded in spring (Top Island Burnt, Little Rushy, Top Lake, Steamer, Wathours, Reed Beds, Duck, Algaboia).

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Figure 5: Change in quadrat flood depth at each wetland study site, as recorded on each of the four monitored seasons.

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Salinity, turbidity and water temperature measurements undertaken by this project were found to be mostly within acceptable levels at all study sites and therefore not of concern, apart from pH which was found to be more slightly more acidic than guidelines at a number of sites (Table 3) but the probe is felt to have malfunctioned by not adequately retaining its calibration from the day previous to monitoring (as per re-testing against calibration solutions).. No significant ‘blackwater’ events were observed within Barmah-Millewa Forest this year, however some obvious Blue Green Algae scums were present in some waterways and study site wetlands, particularly Black Gate Lagoon (refer to “other observations” section).

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Table 3: Water depth and water quality of quadrats at time of monitoring. Colour key code at end of table (depicts departure from ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000, and EPA 2003).

Wetland site Depth (mm) Turbidity (NTU) Temperature (oC) pH: Conductivity (EC)

Spring 2015 Spring 2015/16 Summer Autumn2016 2016 Winter 2015 Spring 2015/16 Summer Autumn2016 2016 Winter 2015 Spring 2015/16 Summer Autumn2016 2016 Winter 2015 Spring 2015/16 Summer Autumn2016 2016 Winter 2015 Spring 2015/16 Summer Autumn2016 2016 Winter Site 1: Boals Deadwoods 1.1 325 98 0 0 10 . . . 21.8 . . . 6.56 . . 55 . . . 1.2 78 0 0 0 12 . . . 21.7 . . . 7.02 . . . 60 . . . 1.3 2 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 355 114 0 0 20 25 . . 21.4 28.6 . . 6.58 5.83 . . 58 . . . 2.2 16 0 0 0 30 . . . 22.3 . . . 7.01 . . . 56 . . . 2.3 49 0 0 0 <10 . . . 19.9 . . . 6.79 . . . 85 83 . . Site 2: Top Isle (Burnt) 1.1 323 0 0 0 18 . . . 18.2 . . . 6.33 . . . 73 . . . 1.2 87 0 0 0 20 . . . 17.5 . . . 7.00 . . . 77 . . . 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 354 0 0 0 30 . . . 19.0 . . . 6.27 . . . 72 . . . 2.2 112 0 0 0 <<10 . . . 20.3 . . . 6.21 . . . 72 . . . 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 3: Top Isle (Original) 1.1 239 0 0 0 15 . . . 22.3 . . . 6.38 . . . 105 . . . 1.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 143 0 0 0 10 . . . 27.7 . . . 6.20 . . . 110 . . . 2.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 4: Little Rushy Swamp 1.1 141 0 0 0 . . . . 23.2 . . . 6.67 . . . 111 . . . 1.2 195 0 0 0 . . . . 21.6 . . . 6.55 . . . 121 . . . 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 218 0 0 0 . . . . 23.9 . . . 6.62 . . . 113 . . . 2.2 218 0 0 0 . . . . 23.0 . . . 6.20 . . . 116 . . . 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 5: Top Lake 1.1 141 0 0 0 . . . . 21.3 . . . 6.42 . . . 103 . . . 1.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 177 0 0 0 . . . . 21.7 . . . 6.56 . . . 99 . . . 2.2 52 0 0 0 ...... 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 6: Steamer Plain 1.1 339 63 0 0 . 55 . . 22.3 19.6 . . 6.17 8.10 . . 86 87 . . 1.2 370 143 0 0 . <10 . . 20.8 18.3 . . 6.31 8.22 . . 91 80 . . 1.3 262 0 0 0 . . . . 22.5 . . . 6.01 . . . 92 . . . 1.4 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 511 292 0 0 . 150 . . 21.4 20.7 . . 6.24 8.30 . . 77 55 . . 2.2 436 197 0 0 . 100 . . 21.0 19.7 . . 6.19 8.19 . . 87 61 . . 2.3 226 0 0 0 . . . . 20.7 . . . 6.33 . . . 81 . . . 2.4 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 7: Wathours Lagoon 1.0 269 187 0 0 <10 40 . . 15.3 22.7 . . 6.56 6.09 . . 105 88 . . 1.1 100 4 0 0 10 . . . 18.3 . . . 5.80 . . . 225 . . . 1.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.0 115 60 0 0 15 40 . . 15.2 24.9 . . 5.52 6.25 . . 130 95 . . 2.1 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 8: Reed Beds Swamp 1.0 478 140 0 0 25 15 . . 17.0 18.9 10.4 5.68 5.97 . . 80 72 . . 1.1 266 51 0 0 32 . . . 18.8 . . . 5.58 . . . 115 . . . 1.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.0 493 237 0 0 30 10 . . 17.4 18.8 10.3 5.80 5.84 . . 79 74 . . 2.1 330 24 0 0 30 . . . 16.0 . . . 5.59 . . . 100 . . . 2.2 21 0 0 0 25 . . . 23.5 . . . 5.75 . . . 237 . . . 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 9: Black Gate Lagoon 1.1 586 365 159 81 25 15 41 23.4 23.0 10.4 5.92 6.14 6.97 57 42 29 1.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 668 425 206 172 30 50 41 23.3 24.9 10.3 5.86 6.13 7.00 56 48 31 2.2 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 10: Duck Lagoon 1.1 536 294 0 0 <10 <10 . . 24.1 29.8 . . 6.16 6.16 . . 73 95 . . 1.2 159 0 0 0 <10 . . . 27.7 . . . 6.95 . . . 170 . . . 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 476 253 0 0 <10 <10 . . 26.3 32.0 . . 6.30 7.26 . . 76 110 . . 2.2 138 0 0 0 <10 . . . 26.5 . . . 5.95 . . . 95 . . . 2.3 0 0 0 0 ...... Site 11: Algaboia Plain 1.1 143 0 0 0 15 . . 27.1 . . . 6.35 . . . 98 . . . 1.2 21 0 0 0 22 . . 20.2 . . . 6.41 . . . 162 . . . 1.3 0 0 0 0 ...... 2.1 117 0 0 0 10 . . 26.0 . . . 6.93 . . . 121 . . . 2.2 16 0 0 0 50 . . 22.3 . . . 6.56 . . . 173 . . . 2.3 0 0 0 0 ......

> 50 NTU >30oC < 6.5 pH units > 500 EC > 8 pH units

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4.2 Understorey vegetation monitoring results for 2015-16:

A considerable volume of data has once again been collected this year, and is summarised in this report with interpretation based on basic statistical analysis and obvious findings. The detailed analysis of the data is currently being performed as part of a collaborative undertaking with Deakin University (Dr Shaun Cunningham) and the University of Canberra (Prof Ralph McNally) following dataset collation via the Australian Centre for Ecological Analysis and Sythensis (ACEAS), and will be presented at a later date following peer review. All data previously collected by this project has had some detailed statistical analysis completed, with one book chapter (Stokes et al. 2010a) and one scientific paper (Stokes et al. 2010b) having been published. Intensions are to publish additional papers based on further analysis via Deakin University and the University of Canberra.

4.2.1 Summary of 2015-16 vegetation dataset:

An extensive dataset was collected during the 2015-16 monitoring program, with detailed quadrat data presented in the seasonal progress reports (Ward 2015a, 2016a,b,c). Only mean data from those reports are presented in Appendix 2 of this report, and includes flowering presence. A summary list of all species recorded during this year’s monitoring program (including season observed) is provided in Appendix 3, and also serves to define common names of the botanical names used in the text of this report. Appendix 4 lists species by study site observed, while photo-points taken at each quadrat at the time of monitoring are provided in Appendix 5. This new 2015-16 dataset has been tabulated with all pre-existing data from collected in the previous ten years in Appendix 6. Change in each quadrat’s species groupings are then graphically displayed in Appendix 7. Based on major vegetation type of each quadrat, an assessment was then performed on each quadrat to determine its main Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) and is presented in Appendix 8.

Overall, a total of 162 species from 52 families were found during the monitoring program in 2015-16, with 63% being native species (Table 4). The bulk of the diversity was from dicotyledonous species (67%), and those of terrestrial damp and terrestrial dry habit (63%). Variation exists in the number of seasons that the various species were found, again highlighting the need to undertake surveys no less than once each season. Most wetland species were native (88%), whereas less than half of terrestrial species were native (41%). Three quarters of species found in all four seasons were native (73%), whereas under half of species found in only one single season was native (45%). These figures accord remarkably similar to previous wet years of similar analysis (i.e., Ward 2011d and 2013a), but slightly greater percentage native species compared with 2009-10 (a dry year; Ward 2010d). Years previous to this have been analysed differently, hence future analysis will aim to standardise all metrics and make comparisons and trends at that time.

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Table 4: Summary statistics of species as collected from sentinel study sites in 2015-16. Key to Habit (functional group) codes [from Casanova 2011]: Se Perennial (emergent) Sk Submerged (k-selected) Sr Submerged (r-selected) ARp Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (morphologically plastic) ARf Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (floating/stranded) ATe Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) ATl Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (low growing) Tda Terrestrial: damp places Tdr Terrestrial: dry places

2015-16 stats Spring Summer Autumn Winter TOTAL Native Exotic Naturilsed Uncertain Nativeness

Divisions 7 7 6 7 7 - - - - - Families 47 43 37 43 52 - - - - - Species 141 104 87 107 162 97 58 3 4 63% Divisions Dicot 88 68 59 74 109 59 44 2 2 57% Monocot 45 29 23 24 43 27 14 1 2 66% Algae 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 100% Fern 3 3 2 3 3 3 0 0 0 100% Lichen 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 100% Liverwort 2 1 1 3 3 3 0 0 0 100% Moss 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 100% Species Habit ? 0 1 1 2 2 0 0 0 2 - Sr 2 3 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 - Sk 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 100% Se 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 100% ARp 12 11 5 7 14 14 0 0 0 100% ARf 3 3 2 3 3 3 0 0 0 100% ATe 27 23 21 20 24 19 2 1 2 91% ATl 10 9 7 8 9 9 0 0 0 100% Atw 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 100% Tda 54 32 31 44 61 33 26 0 2 56% Tdr 33 22 19 19 41 9 30 2 0 23% Season observed Spring 141 - - - 141 89 48 2 2 65% Summer - 105 - - 105 76 25 2 2 75% Autumn - - 87 - 87 60 22 3 2 73% Winter - - - 107 107 71 33 1 2 68% Frequency of seasons observed 1 season - - - - 56 25 29 1 1 46% 2 seasons - - - - 25 12 13 0 0 48% 3 seasons - - - - 16 11 3 0 1 79% 4 seasons - - - - 70 51 16 1 2 76% Conservation Status k (suspected) 2 2 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 100% V (Aust vul.) 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 100% v (Vic vul.) 2 2 0 0 0 100% Origin Native 87 76 60 69 97 97 - - - 100% Exotic 48 25 22 31 58 - 58 - - 100% Naturilsed 4 2 3 1 3 - - 3 - 100% Uncertain 2 2 2 2 4 - - - 4 100% Nativeness 62% 73% 69% 65% 63% - - - - 63%

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The finding of a single specimen what was suspected at the time to be Conium maculatum* (Poison Hemlock) at Little Rushy Swamp in spring 2015 (Ward 2015) has since been identified as Daucus glochidiatus (Native Carrot) (Plate 1), a species that shares the same family (Apiaceae) and looks similar to Hemloch when small (as it was when observed).

Plate 1: Daucus glochidiatus (Native Carrot) at Little Rushy Swamp (17/10/2015).

However, the opportunistic observation of Ludwigia palustris* (Plate 2) at Black Gate Lagoon by this project in autumn represents the first record of this exotic wetland species in Barmah- Millewa Forest. Repeat inspection in winter failed to locate any more of the species, although a more targeted assessment ought to be undertaken for potential eradication of the species from the region to prevent this new exotic species from establishing and expanding.

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Plate 2: Ludwigia palustris* (Marsh Ludwigia) at Black Gate Lagoon Q1.1 (19/04/2016).

4.2.2 Summary of vegetation response by season:

4.2.2.1 Spring 2015:

A large diversity of understorey plants was found to exist at the study sites when monitored in spring (October 2015) with 141 species in total, of which 63% were native (Table 5), representing an approximate 20% increase in species normally encountered during the drought years but similar to more recent spring periods (Ward 2012d). Of particular note is the finding of six more native species this spring while six less exotic species were encountered (Table 6).

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Table 5: Summary groupings of species surveyed during spring 2015 across all sentinel study sites. Divisions Families Species Native Exotic Naturalised Uncertain Divisions 7 47 141 89 48 4 0 - Alga 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Dicot 1 33 88 52 33 2 1 - Fern 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 - Lichen 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Liverwort 1 1 2 2 0 0 0 - Monocot 1 9 45 27 15 2 1 - Moss 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 Habit 7 47 141 89 48 4 0 - S 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 - ARp 3 8 12 12 0 0 0 - ARf 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 - ATe 2 9 27 22 2 2 1 - ATl 2 8 10 10 0 0 0 - Tda 4 24 54 30 22 1 1 - Tdr 2 13 33 8 24 1 0 Status 7 47 141 89 48 4 0 - V 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - v 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - k 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 - no status 7 46 138 84 48 4 2 Origin 7 47 141 89 48 4 0 - Native 7 38 87 87 0 0 0 - Exotic 2 16 48 0 48 0 0 - Naturalised 2 3 4 0 0 4 0 - Uncertain 0 0 2 0 0 0 2

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Table 6: Difference of surveyed species groupings from previously surveyed spring (2011) across all sentinel study sites (positive numbers represent an increase from 2011). Divisions Families Species Native Exotic Naturalised Uncertain Divisions 0 1 0 6 -6 1 -1 - Alga 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Dicot 0 0 -3 3 -7 0 1 - Fern 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Lichen 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Liverwort 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Monocot 0 2 3 1 1 1 0 - Moss 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Habit 0 1 0 6 -6 1 -1 - S -1 -1 -1 -1 0 0 0 - ARp 0 -1 -1 -1 0 0 0 - ARf -1 -1 -1 0 -1 0 0 - ATe 0 0 2 1 -1 1 1 - ATl 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 - Tda 0 -6 1 2 -2 1 0 - Tdr 0 -2 -2 1 -2 -1 0 Status 0 1 0 6 -6 1 -1 - V 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - v 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - k 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 - no status 0 1 -1 3 -6 1 1 Origin 0 1 0 6 -6 1 -1 - Native 0 5 4 4 0 0 0 - Exotic 0 -3 -6 0 -6 0 0 - Naturalised 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 - Uncertain -1 -1 1 0 0 0 1

Species diversity was quite variable between each 20x20m quadrat in spring 2015, ranging from four species (as observed at Steamer Plain Q 2.1 & 2.1, and Reed Beds Swamp Q1.0 & 2.0) up to 37 species (as observed in Boals Deadwood Q2.3) (Table 7). For many quadrats, particularly the more elevated ones that were not flooded for the past two years, this finding represents a decrease of species compared to the previously monitored spring in 2011 (Table 8). This variance appears to be attributable to the substantially drier conditions this year being experienced in the more elevated quadrats that have not been flooded for the past two years. Lower flooded quadrats were more comparable to the similarly flooded spring 2011 (Ward 2012d).

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Table 7: Number of species recorded at each quadrat during the spring 2015 monitoring period. Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 28 species, of which 16 were exotic). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects).

Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Lagoon Plain 1.0 14 (0) 4 (0) 1.1 8 (0) 11 (0) 14 (0) 13 (0) 12 (0) 10 (0) 24 (3) 8 (0) 5 (0) 6 (0) 6 (0) 1.2 30 (7) 20 (0) 11 (2) 10 (0) 13 (1) 10 (0) 12 (2) 12 (5) 22 (9) 13 (1) 9 (0) 1.3 28 (16) 25 (7) 17 (4) 7 (1) 14 (2) 13 (1) 12 (5) 22 (9) 23 (13) 16 (10) 21 (6) 1.4 14 (5) 2.0 24 (2) 4 (0) 2.1 7 (0) 5 (0) 15 (0) 12 (0) 10 (0) 4 (0) 23 (6) 5 (0) 7 (0) 7 (0) 5 (0) 2.2 36 (16) 18 (1) 12 (0) 9 (0) 15 (1) 4 (0) 21 (4) 18 (4) 21 (8) 12 (2) 9 (0) 2.3 37 (16) 12 (2) 25 (6) 22 (9) 10 (2) 9 (0) 12 (5) 15 (7) 25 (12) 18 (10) 16 (6) 2.4 23 (4)

Table 8: Difference between spring 2015 from spring 2011 when last monitored (positive numbers represent an increase in spring 2015 compared to spring 2011). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 16 less species this spring compared with last monitored spring, including 4 less exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Lagoon Plain 1.0 7 (0) -3 (0) 1.1 -3 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 6 (0) 5 (0) 1 (0) 14 (3) -6 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 4 (0) 1.2 1(5) 1 (2) -7 (2) 3 (0) 4 (1) 5 (0) -11 (-2) -15 (-6) -2 (2) 5 (1) 6 (0) 1.3 -16 (-4) 1 (3) -22 (6) -4 (1) -17 (-10) 4 (1) -5 (-1) -7(-6) -7 (-4) -13 (-6) 12 (6) 1.4 4 (4) 2.0 7 (2) -2 (0) 2.1 -1 (0) 1 (0) 4 (-1) 5 (0) 2 (0) -3 (0) -6 -5 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 3 (0) 2.2 4 (11) 1 (-1) -4 (0) 5 (0) 6 (0) -6 (0) -6 (0) -6 (-2) -5 (0) -8 (-9) 3 (0) 2.3 0 (6) 4 (-6) -20 (-9) 0 (5) -3 (2) 2 (0) -9 (-8) -5 (-6) -1 (-3) -9 (-6) 3 (5) 2.4 10 (3)

Most species were observed to be in flower at most sites (Appendix 2), although senescence in most of the terrestrial grasses at higher elevated quadrats was observed to be occurring, expected to be due to recent hot weather combined with very low rainfall totals for the previous six weeks prior to monitoring (as seen earlier in Figure 3).

In terms of conservation significance, one nationally-listed ‘vulnerable’ species (Amphibromus fluitans) was found at Little Rushy Swamp (Q1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2) and Duck Lagoon (Q1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2), while two nationally-listed ‘suspected-to-be-vulnerable’ species were located; Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii was located at Boals Deadwoods (Q2.2), while Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) was located at Top Island Original Site (Q2.3) and Reed Beds Swamp (Q1.3).

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Dominant species found to be occurring at each study site during the spring 2015 monitoring period are summarised below:

1. Boals Deadwoods remained strongly dominated by Juncus ingens and patches of Phragmites australis and Azolla filiculoides in the deeper zones, while shallow flooding in the mid-zone has promoted a relatively strong response from Cerastium glomeratum*, Persicaria hydropiper, Ranunculus inundatus and R. lappaceus (although Carex tereticaulis, Eleocharis acuta and Hydrocotyl laxiflora appeared to be less prevalent this spring). The shallower flooded zones have some domination of Bromus diandrus*, Cerastium glomeratum*, Cirsium vulgare*, Galium aparine* and Ranunculus inundatus (while Cardamine, Persicaria, Echium, Ehrharta and Vicia species that were common when previously monitored in spring 2011 were now found to be less prevalent).

2. Top Island Burnt Site lowest zone was strongly characterised by tall active growth of Phragmites australis, although surprisingly Juncus ingens was found to contain a lot of senescent material and relatively little active growth during a period of flooding that ought to have suited the species. This zone also included Azolla filiculoides, Elatine gratioloides and Stellaria angustifolia, whereas the mid-zone supported Elatine gratioloides, Persicaria hydropiper, Potamogeton sulcratus, Ranunculus inundatus and Stellaria caespitosa. The more elevated regions, being extremely dry, had a small diversity that was existing in very low abundance, although Lobelia concolor was one of the more plentiful species.

3. Top Island Original Site lowest zone contained sparse Juncus ingens with a lot of brown algae in the water and patches of emergent Persicaria hydropiper and Ranunculus inundatus. The mid-zone was very sparse and represented an area just above the distinct green demarcation zone where surface flooding had influenced (Plate 3). Only a small patch of Ranunculus inundatus was present in an otherwise small diversity of species in very low abundance and hence greatly contrasted to the previously observed domination by Alternanthera denticulata, Glossostigma elatinoides, Persicaria hydropiper, Rumex crystallinus and Stellaria caespitosa. The upper zone, which has not experienced any flooding for many years, was instead mostly bare ground and Eucalypt leaf litter masking a relatively high diversity of very stunted terrestrial understorey species. Young Eucalyptus camaldulensis were observed to be very stressed and some appeared to be dead (Plate 4).

4. Little Rushy Swamp continues to exhibit very strong regrowth of Juncus ingens in Q1.1, but interestingly not so at Q2.1. Both of these quadrats used to contain strong stands of J. ingens prior to impacts of extended drought conditions, particularly in the 2006 to 2010 period. Potamogeton sulcratus and Stellaria angustifolia (and green algae) were relatively common, while a small area of the carnivorous Utricularia australis was also present. In the mid-zone, the nationally- threatened Amphibromus fluitans was in improved cover-abundance this spring compared with previous monitoring periods, sharing the ponded water with Potamogeton sulcratus and Stellaria angustifolia, and in Q2.2, Pseudoraphis spinescens. The highest monitored zones, represented by Q1.3 & 2.3, was

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extremely dry and exhibited only a very sparse cover from a diversity of stunted and mostly senesced terrestrial species with Carex tereticaulis and Wahlenbergia fluminalis being most prominent.

5. Top Lake bed, which was very shallow at the time of survey, contained mostly Myriophyllum crispatum and Stellaria angustifolia, while the more elevated mid- zone was mostly exposed but did contain some muddy regions to support actively growing Alternanthera denticulata and Triglochin procera (but notable in not contained very much Centipeda cunninghamii or Eleochars acuta that has been noted here in previous springs). Only the highest elevated region of the wetland, which has now not experienced any flooding in the past two years, was largely senescent Carex tereticaulis present over a diversity of very stunted terrestrial species.

6. Steamer Plain diversity is increasing following losses during the Millennium drought and subsequent large prolonged flooding period, particularly in the deepest regions of the wetland. The lowest zone was found to be supporting strong cover from Azolla filiculoides, Eleocharis acuta, Juncus ingens, Myriophyllum crispatum (in Q1.1) and Myriophyllum caput-medusae (in Q2.1). The more elevated regions being monitored in vegetation zone 3 were found to be largely dominated by Eleocharis acuta and Stellaria angustifolia, while vegetation zone 4 varied between the two transects (as usual at this site) with Q1.4 showing little vegetation due to heavy shading and large volume of fallen Eucalypt leaf litter, compared to Q2.4 where Carex gaudichaudiana and Juncus amabilis remains abundant.

7. Wathours Lagoon deeper regions continue to be dominated by Juncus ingens (along with Myriophyllum variifolium and Elatine gratioloides in Q1.0 and Persicaria hydropiper in Q2.0), along with the floating aquatics Azolla filiculoides and Ricciocarpus natans. The slightly more elevated floor of the wetland in vegetation zone 1 continues to be dominated by Juncus ingens but also support more Persicaria hydropiper, Ranunculus inundatus, Rumex crystallinus and Stellaria caespitosa. The more elevated flooded regions of vegetation zone 2 which regularly flood but lay above the ponding zone, was found to be mostly very dry when monitored this spring to exhibit a very sparse cover from most of the usual species, although Echium plantagineum* was able to colonise during this non-flooded period. High ground surrounding Wathours Swamp, monitored by the most elevated quadrats, continues to be dominated by mostly exotic terrestrial species (mainly Echium and Marrubium) although all were mostly senescent in the very dry conditions with small existent species such as Oxalis perennans occurring only where some heavy shade was available.

8. Reed Beds Swamp deepest quadrats (Q1.0 & 2.0) continue to be strongly dominated by a dense stand of very tall Phragmites australis, although appearing sparser in canopy than in previous monitoring periods, while adjoining quadrats at similar depth but under a strong canopy of mature Eucalyptus camaldulensis continue to instead contain sparse stands of Juncus ingens and P. australis, the

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latter species also being shorter than the conspecific found in the adjoining deeper and less shaded regions of the transect. Patches of the carnivorous aquatic plant Utricularia australis continue to also be found here (Plate 5). A mixture of species were found at vegetation zone 2, although most of the zone was on this occasions found to be very dry where Bromus diandrus* now dominates while some damper areas contained strong stands of Marsilea drummondii and Ranunculus inundatus. Carex inversa continues to dominate the most elevated zone monitored by this project, although the dry conditions have also favoured Bromus diandrus* this spring.

9. Black Gate Lagoon continues to deeply pond floodwater where Juncus ingens is rapidly infilling all remaining open water, although Azolla filiculoides and Myriophyllum papillosum remain prevalent where open water remains. This zone contrasts enormously to the other more elevated zones of this wetland which were found to be extremely dry this spring and where very low cover abundance of any understorey species currently exists. Patches of Echium plantagineum* were most noticeable, although some Carex tereticaulis, Galium aparine* and Senecio quadridentatus occurred in small patches.

10. Duck Lagoon’s deepest zone is showing a resurgence of Juncus ingens with what appears to be the nationally-vulnerable Amphibromus fluitans now emerging from the water surface. Submerged Stellaria caespitosa is otherwise common. The shallowly flooded vegetation zone 2 region of the wetland further supports strong growth of Amphibromus fluitans and Stellaria caespitosa, while the most elevated vegetation zone 3 is exceptionally dry and supporting only a range of mostly senescent terrestrial grasses and herbs, mostly Bromus rubens*. Rabbits were of particular note at this location, with numerous dropping and frequent sightings of animals during the hot daylight hours when the vegetation survey was being undertaken.

11. Algaboia Plain continues to be flooded apart from the uppermost vegetation zone that strongly contrasts with having remain very dry. The wetland bed is now being strongly dominated by Eleocharis acuta, Myriophyllum crispatum and Stellaria angustifolia, while the heavy shade of the mid-zone is supporting a slightly greater diversity but in very low abundance where Eleocharis acuta is most common but rare compared with the open deeper zone. The dry upper zone now only mostly supports senescing patches of Cardamine paucijuga, Juncus amabilis, Lachnagrostis filiformis and Stellaria angustifolia.

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Plate 3: Sharp flood boundary caused from prolonged stable flooding coinciding with exceptionally dry weather conditions (as observed at Top Island Original Site adjoining Q2.2, 18/10/2015).

Plate 4: Deceased or very stressed Red Gum saplings next to some clearly remaining alive at Top Island Original Site Q1.3 (18/10/2015).

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Plate 5: Carnivorous traps of Utricularia australis at Reed Beds Swamp Q1.1 (24/10/2015).

Observations of particular interest is the finding of Juncus ingens at Top Island sites containing a large volume of senescent leaf material and only few new shoots, despite such sites having seemingly ideal shallow flooding that the species usually thrives in. By contrast, J. ingens at Black Gate Lagoon continues to rapidly infill all remaining open water in a water regime similar to that experienced at Top Island.

Similarly for Phragmites australis at Reed Beds Swamp that now occurs in thick mature stands but contains relatively little leaf material. Summer flooding is known to best suit both species, and hence particular note will be made later in the year, especially with Reed Beds planned by government land managers to remain flooded for a waterbird breeding event.

Pseudoraphis spinescens remains in high cover abundance only at Quadrat 2.2 of Little Rushy Swamp, although at 40% represents a continuing decline from the previous monitored spring in 2013 where it was found at 63% cover and spring 2012 in 77% cover. This site is planned for a grazing exclusion fence by state agencies in autumn 2016 and include more intensive monitoring inside and outside of the fence to determine recovery of understorey species (Keith Ward, pers. comm.). Elsewhere, P. spinescens was found in quadrats at only four other wetlands, namely Boals Deadwoods, Steamer Plain Top Lake and Wathours where cover abundance of the species is less than 1%. The species was found to not yet be flowering at any of the sites, which is expected given the early time of year and the current short plant length following only recent renewed site flooding.

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4.2.2.2 Summer 2015-16:

A moderate diversity of understorey plants was found to exist at the study sites when monitored in summer (January 2016) with 104 species in total, of which 73% were native (Table 9). This represents the median number of species recorded by this project for January, although is less than the average over the same period by 10%. One new species was found for this project, being Glinus oppositifolius in shallow water/mud at Wathours Lagoon Q2.0 where it occurred as a single specimen (this native species has no conservation status).

However, species diversity was quite variable between each 20x20m quadrat, ranging from only two species (as observed at Top Lake Q2.3) up to 31 species (as observed in Boals Deadwood Q2.3, which is usually the quadrat containing the greatest number of species) (Table 10). Of note was the finding that none of the lowest (more flood prone) quadrats currently possesses any exotic species.

Compared to three months earlier in spring, some quadrats have now experienced an increase in species diversity while other quadrats showed a decrease in species diversity, with some being native while others exotic, with no obvious trend for elevation or flood status apart from the lowest sites having no exotic species (Table 11). This was similar when comparing against a previous summer that share similar dry antecedent flooding, such as that observed in 2013-14 (which was the last summer prior to the current that Millewa Forest sites were surveyed) (Table 12).

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Table 9: Summary groupings of species surveyed during summer 2015/16 across all sentinel study sites. Key to Plant Functional Group codes [from Casanova 2011]: Sk Submerged: k-selected Sr Submerged: r-selected ARp Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (morphologically plastic) ARf Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (floating/stranded) ATe Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) ATl Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (low growing) ATw Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (woody) Tda Terrestrial: damp places Tdr Terrestrial: dry places

Divisions Families Species Native Exotic Naturalised Uncertain Divisions 7 43 104 76 25 2 2 - Alga 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Dicot 1 30 68 46 20 1 1 - Fern 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 - Lichen 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Liverwort 1 1 2 2 0 0 0 - Monocot 1 7 29 22 5 1 1 - Moss 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 Habit 7 43 104 76 25 2 2 - S 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 - ARp 3 7 11 11 0 0 0 - ARf 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 - ATe 2 9 23 19 2 1 1 - ATl 2 7 9 9 0 0 0 - Tda 4 18 32 21 10 0 1 - Tdr 2 10 22 8 13 1 0 Status 7 43 104 76 25 2 2 - V 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - v 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 - k 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 - no status 7 42 100 73 25 2 2 Origin 7 43 104 76 25 2 2 - Native 7 34 76 76 0 0 0 - Exotic 2 13 25 0 25 0 0 - Naturalised 2 2 2 0 0 2 0 - Uncertain 2 2 2 0 0 0 2

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Table 10: Number of species recorded at each quadrat during the summer 2015/16 monitoring period. Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 25 species, of which 8 were exotic). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects).

Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Lagoon Plain 1.0 13 (0) 6 (0) 1.1 7 (0) 10 (0) 9 (0) 9 (0) 8 (0) 12 (0) 10 (0) 9 (0) 3 (0) 6 (0) 6 (0) 1.2 17 (4) 16 (1) 5 (1) 8 (0) 9 (1) 11 (0) 5 (1) 16 (5) 13 (3) 13 (3) 7 (0) 1.3 25 (8) 16 (4) 11 (1) 6 (0) 6 (1) 15 (0) 7 (2) 13 (3) 17 (2) 4 (0) 11 (4) 1.4 3 (0) 2.0 24 (0) 5 (0) 2.1 10 (0) 6 (0) 11 (0) 9 (0) 8 (0) 3 (0) 18 (2) 10 (0) 6 (0) 8 (0) 7 (0) 2.2 26 (8) 11 (1) 10 (2) 8 (0) 5 (0) 4 (0) 11 (4) 16 (4) 14 (4) 16 (2) 6 (0) 2.3 31 (10) 13 (2) 14 (3) 13 (3) 2 (0) 8 (0) 10 (5) 7 (1) 10 (3) 8 (3) 10 (4) 2.4 13 (4)

Table 11: Difference between summer 2015/16 from summer 2013/14 when Barmah Forest sites were last monitored (positive numbers represent an increase in summer 2015/16 compared to summer 2013/14). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 9 more species this summer compared with two years ago in summer 2013/14, including 3 more exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain 1.0 1.1 -2 (0) -1 (0) -2 (0) 1 (0) 3 (0) 6 (0) 1.2 4 (4) 2 (1) -3 (1) 3 (1) 3 (1) 4 (0) 1.3 9 (3) 4 (0) -4 (-1) 0 (1) -5 (0) 11 (0) 1.4 -10 (-1) 2.0 2.1 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 2 (0) 3 (0) -1 (0) 2.2 5 (5) -1 (2) 1 (2) 0 (0) -1 (0) 0 (0) 2.3 3 (4) -3 (3) -1 (-4) -6 (-2) -6 (-2) 0 (0) 2.4 -4 (2)

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Table 12: Difference between summer 2015/16 from summer 2012/13 when Barmah & Millewa sites were last monitored (positive numbers represent an increase in summer 2015/16 compared to summer 2012/13). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 1 less species this summer compared with three years ago in summer 2012/13, including 1 less exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed BedsBlack Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods(Burnt site)(Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Lagoon Plain 1.0 5 (0) -1 (0) 1.1 -7 (0) 1 (0) -2 (0) 0 (0) -1 (-2) 0 (0) 3 (0) -3 (0) -2 (0) 2 (0) 0 (0) 1.2 -3 (3) 5 (0) -2 (0) 1 (1) 4 (0) 2 (-1) -7 (-1) -1 (2) 1 (2) 2 (2) 1 (-1) 1.3 -1 (-1) 3 (1) -9 (-2) 0 (1) -7 (0) 6 (0) -5 (-1) 2 (0) 2 (0) -7 (-2) 1 (3) 1.4 -4 (0) 2.0 15 (0) -1 (0) 2.1 -3 (0) 0 (-1) 3 (0) 1 (0) 1 (0) 2 (0) 8 (1) -3 (0) 1 (0) 0 (0) 1 (-1) 2.2 2 (0) -1 (2) 0 (2) 4 (0) -2 (-1) -3 (0) 2 (3) -3 (-1) 2 (2) 7 (2) 2 (0) 2.3 1 (3) -1 (3) -1 (-1) -7 (-2) -7 (-2) -1 (0) 1 (1) -4 (-3) -1 (0) -1 (1) 0 (3) 2.4 -2 (2)

Nearly three quarters (71%) of angiosperm (plants that flower) species were found to be flowering in at least at one of the study site wetlands at the time of survey this month (Appendix 2). Most terrestrial grasses at higher elevated quadrats were observed to be have senesced, which is expected to be due to preceding drying than average weather conditions prior to monitoring (as seen earlier in Figure 3).

The distribution of plant functional groups (following Casanova 2011) reflect the elevation in relation to flood history, particularly with recent drawdown of flooding creating moist but unflooded areas (Appendix 3). Submerged plants and floating amphibious plants (ARf) are, as expected, associated with current flooded or only just recently exposed regions of the floodplain, as monitored by lower elevated quadrats such as 1.1 and 2.1. Conversely, the dry terrestrial plants (Tdr) remain associated with higher drier and often non-flooded regions of the floodplain, as monitored by the higher elevated quadrats such as 1.3 and 2.3. Complexity arises from the observed distribution of intermediate plant functional groups (the amphibious groups of ARp, ATe, ATl, and ATw, and the terrestrial damp group of Tda) which tended to occupy a range of regions on the floodplain, reflecting their ability to tolerate various amounts of flooding, flood stages and persistence to desiccation following flood drawdown.

In terms of conservation significance, one nationally-listed ‘vulnerable’ species (Amphibromus fluitans) was found at Little Rushy Swamp (Q1.1, 1.2) and Steamer Plain (Q1.1), while two nationally-listed ‘suspected-to-be-vulnerable’ species were located; Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii was located at Boals Deadwoods (Q2.2), while Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) was located at Top Island Original Site (Q1.3, Q2.3).

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Dominant species found to be occurring at each study site during the summer 2015-16 monitoring period are summarised below:

1. Boals Deadwoods remained strongly dominated by Juncus ingens and Azolla filiculoides in the deeper zones, and in Q2.1 Pseudoraphis spinescens growing strongly amongst the shallower Juncus ingens (with an average of 20% cover), although the patches of Phragmites australis that had been actively growing in spring had now thinned. Recent recession of shallow flooding from the mid-zone (Q1.2 & 2.2) had maintained strong growth of Persicaria hydropiper and, in Q1.2, Carex tereticulis. while Cerastium glomeratum*, Ranunculus inundatus and R. lappaceus that had been prevalent in spring had now mostly senesced. The shallower flooded higher quadrats found some domination of Lobelia concolor and Ehrharta erecta* amongst an otherwise small number of a high diversity of predominantly Amphibious Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) and Terrestrial Damp functional plant groups. Previous common plants found three months earlier in spring, such as Bromus diandrus*, Cerastium glomeratum*, Galium aparine* and Ranunculus inundatus, had now largely senesced.

2. Top Island Burnt Site lowest zone now sees Juncus ingens becoming more abundant at Q1.1 instead of Phragmites australis which was senescing in the drying conditions and had shown signs of having been heavily browsed by feral horses, however the previous near-complete domination of J. ingens at Q2.1 has now become mostly dead in appearance and is laying over as an elevated carpet obscuring the ground and smothering the emergence of many other species that remain common in Q1.1. The mid-zone, which had dried after the last inspection in spring, was now mostly supporting Persicaria hydropiper over a sparse cover of a small diversity of other Amphibious Tolerator plant functional group species. The more elevated regions, now being extremely dry, had a small diversity that were all existing in very low abundance with the most common being Persicaria prostrata at less than 3% cover being recorded.

3. Top Island Original Site lowest zone maintained sparse Juncus ingens and strengthened cover of Persicaria hydropiper, while the dry conditions have now seen species such as Ranunculus inundatus become largely senescent. The mid- and upper monitored zones were now both very sparse of understorey species cover, with only Einadia nutans managing up to 1% cover in Q1.1, otherwise the vista was of very hard bare ground and dry eucalypt leaf litter now predominating above the level where environmental water had reached in spring.

4. Little Rushy Swamp had dried since previous monitoring in spring where Juncus ingens remains the structural dominant of Q1.1 and Q2.1, although the centre of Q2.1 remains open and hence only patches of J. ingens occur at that location. Otherwise, the wetland floor (including Q1.2 & 2.2) was mostly covered by a small diversity of low growing plants that had existed during the flood phase such as Ludwigia peploides, Stellaria caespitosa, Amphibromus fluitans and Pseudoraphis spinescens, while patches of Chenopodium pumilio have since colonised the drying substrate after flood recession. As in previous years following flood recession,

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Amphibromus fluitans (nationally-threatened) and Pseudoraphis spinescens have both been heavily cropped by grazing by horses and kangaroos, while feral pigs have now again ploughed much of the wetland floor. The highest monitored zone, represented by Q1.3 & 2.3, was extremely dry and exhibited only a very sparse cover from a diversity of stunted and mostly senesced terrestrial species with Carex tereticaulis and Juncus amabalis remaining the most prominent.

5. Top Lake bed was now very dry following shallow flooding in winter-spring, with Alternanthera denticulata, Persicaria prostrata and Ludwigia peploides providing the greatest cover abundance of the species, while Pseudoraphis spinescens was providing no more than 0.3% cover. Alternanthera denticulata extended its domination into the lake bed margin (that is being monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2), which was otherwise mostly bare ground and eucalypt leaf litter. The highest elevated region of the wetland, which has now not experienced any flooding in the past 2.25 years, was mostly near complete senescent Carex tereticaulis present over a carpet of dry eucalypt leaves.

6. Steamer Plain lowest zones were exceptionally green due to persistent shallow flooding supporting strong cover from Juncus ingens and Azolla filiculoides, while Q1.1 & 1.2 also supported strong cover of Eleocharis acuta and patches of Ludwigia peploides and Myriophyllum crispatum. The slightly more elevated mid- zone monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3 was now dry and continues to lack the presence of Juncus ingens but continued to support domination by Eleocharis acuta, and Persicaria hydropiper, although Q1.3 also contained a prevalence of Ludwigia peploides and Myriophyllum crispatum. The most elevated region being monitored in vegetation zone 4 varied between the two transects (as usual at this site) with Q1.4 continuing to exhibit very little understorey vegetation due to heavy shading and large volume of fallen eucalypt leaf litter, compared to Q2.4 where Carex gaudichaudiana and some Juncus amabilis remains most abundant despite showing senescence in the dry conditions.

7. Wathours Lagoon deepest regions continue to be exclusively dominated by the native species Juncus ingens with a floating mat of Azolla filiculoides with a sprinkle of Landoltia punctata and Ricciocarpos natans, although Q1.0 also has Typha orientalis and strong patches of Ludwigia peploides, Myriophyllum crispatum, Myriophyllum papillosum and Utricularia australis, while Q2.0 included Persicaria hydropiper, Ranunculus inundatus and Stellaria caespitosa in the less deep areas. Although Juncus ingens and Ludwigia peploides also dominated the slightly more elevated Q1.1 & 2.1 region, this area otherwise mostly shared the space with Persicaria hydropiper and Ranunculus inundatus (and Phragmites australis in Q2.1) in the mushy substrate that contained only patches of residual water. The next elevated region of the wetland, Vegetation Zone 2, was above Juncus ingens area and was now very dry with cracking sediment and supported only an extremely sparse understorey of most Terrestrial Damp (Tda) specie that had mostly senesced in the dry conditions with none having over 0.5% cover. The highest elevated regions of Wathours Lagoon, which have never been flooded during the conduct of this project, is currently very sparse with most cover coming

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from the exotic species Marrubium vulgare* albeit less than 3%. Evidence of Bardi-Grub diggers have been illegally digging in this area with some parts of the quadrat now exhibiting recent soil disturbance (which will likely add to the exotic weed loading already present at this site).

8. Reed Beds Swamp deepest quadrats (Q1.0 & 2.0) contained flooding from active environmental water allocations and continue to be strongly dominated by a dense stand of very tall Phragmites australis, but also having floating Riccia duplex common in the water amongst the reedbeds and, in Q1.0, Utricularia australis. In the slightly more elevated quadrats of Vegetation Zone 1 (monitored by Q1.1 & 2.1), Juncus ingens was the structural dominant understorey while Utricularia australis existed as an unattached submerged species in any remaining pools of water. The nest elevated region of Vegetation Zone 2 (monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2), was very dry, being above the area of influence from current environmental water allocations, and supported only a sparse albeit occasional patchy number of plants that were largely senescing, particularly Marsilea drummondii and Eleocharis acuta. The highest elevated zone of this wetland being monitored, recorded by this project as being Vegetation Zone 3 (monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3) was extremely dry with only a very sparse cover of mostly Carex inversa with occasional exotic Cirsium vulgare*.

9. Black Gate Lagoon continues to deeply pond floodwater and where Juncus ingens continues to rapidly infill all remaining open water, although Azolla filiculoides and, in Q2.1, Myriophyllum papillosum remain prevalent where open water remains. This zone contrasts enormously to the other more elevated zones of this wetland which were found to be extremely dry in both spring and summer this year where very low cover abundance of any understorey species currently exists. Patches of the native parasitic shrub Exocarpos strictus continue to expand in these areas, albeit still in low cover abundance of less than 3%.

10. Duck Lagoon’s deepest zone continues to show a resurgence of Juncus ingens recolonization following fire and drought in autumn 2008 (as can be observed from photo-points in Appendix 5), although what had appeared to be the nationally-vulnerable Amphibromus fluitans emerging from the water surface in spring 2015 has now flowered to confirm that the species is the more common Amphibromus nervosus. Myriophyllum crispatum, Stellaria angustifolia and (in Q2.1) Ludwigia peploides otherwise also provide a large cover percentage to this flood-prone area of the wetland. The more elevated Vegetation Zone 2 (monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2) has now no surface water remaining, however Amphibromus nervosus currently dominates the area with thick swards of the species. This zone is also shared with Ludwigia peploides and patches of Persicaria prostrata in Q1.2, and with Eleocharis acuta and Stellaria caespitosa in Q2.2. The highest elevated zone being monitored by this project, Vegetation Zone 3, has remained unflooded for the duration of monitoring since inception in spring 2007. This vegetation zone remains exceptionally dry with no understorey species exceeding 1% cover. Rabbits continue to be of particular note at this location abutting the sandier soils of the Cadell escarpment, with numerous dropping and

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frequent sightings of the animals during the hot daylight hours when the vegetation survey was being undertaken.

11. Algaboia Plain is now very dry following the most recent shallow flooding of the wetland floor in spring 2015. The wetland bed is now being strongly dominated by Eleocharis acuta, although some parched Myriophyllum crispatum is attempting to hold in there. The more elevated Vegetation Zone 2, being in heavy shade of thick spindly River Red Gum regrowth, also supports Eleocharis acuta but to a lesser cover, permitting Alternanthera denticulata to co-colonise. The dry uppermost zone (monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3) now mostly only mostly supports senescing patches of Juncus amabilis and Lachnagrostis filiformis.

Observations of particular interest include the continued finding (as first mentioned from the spring 2015 monitoring period; Ward 2015) of Juncus ingens at Top Island Q2.1 containing a large volume of senescent leaf material and only few new shoots, despite having a seemingly ideal shallow flood regime in spring that the species usually thrives in. By contrast, J. ingens at Boals Deadwoods, Steamer Plain, Wathours Lagoon, Reed Beds Swamp, Black Gate Lagoon and Duck Lagoon all supports healthy stands of the rush, and all experienced longer flood duration than that from Top Island. Consideration of extending flood duration at Top Island may need to be considered if the species is to be promoted, otherwise maintaining the recent drier regime may be preferable to discouraging the species.

Similarly for the observation of relatively poor growth of Phragmites australis at Reed Beds Swamp in spring 2015 that usually occurs in thick mature stands of Q1.0 & 2.0 but was found to contain relatively little leaf material. Summer flooding is known to suit the species, and with government water managers maintaining flooding for a waterbird breeding event at that site into the summer monitoring period, it was now found that P. australis has responded with a very large increase in leaf cover.

Pseudoraphis spinescens remains in high cover abundance only at Quadrat 2.2 of Little Rushy Swamp, although at 33% represents a continuing decline from the previous monitored summers since 2010/11 (Appendix 6). A reason for this apparent decline may be due to the previous summer monitoring periods since 2010/11 were mostly flooded at the time of monitoring, allowing P. spinescens to remain in the larger wet growth phase compared to the smaller dry phase that it reverts to when the site dries. By contrast, the species has increased slightly in cover abundance in other quadrats on the floor of this same wetland this summer compared to previous summers, despite experiencing the same flood regime as Q2.2 where the decline appears to be occurring, hence further monitoring is required. Fortunately this site is planned for a grazing exclusion fence by state agencies in autumn 2016 and will include more intensive monitoring inside and outside of the fence to determine recovery of understorey species (Keith Ward, pers. comm.).

Elsewhere, P. spinescens was found to be common only at Boals Deadwoods Q2.1 where is was found to have a cover abundance of 20% amongst the otherwise thick Juncus ingens beds. However, the other quadrat in the same vegetation zone (Q1.1) showed a decrease in this species cover abundance over the past couple of years. Slight differences in water depth

Page 40 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report alone does not appear to account for any quadrat subsample differences in P. spinescens response, hence the species may be having a patchy distribution that the sampling method is not adequate to sample or the species is sensitive to other environmental variables particular to each site. Five other wetlands of this program’s 11 wetland study sites also recorded at least some P. spinescens, but none contained over 0.3% cover abundance of any quadrat. The species was found to be flowering in just one (BD Q 1.1) of the 20 quadrats where it was recorded this summer.

4.2.2.3 Autumn 2016:

A relative low diversity of understorey plants was found to exist at the study sites when monitored in autumn (April 2016) with 87 species in total, of which 60% were native (Table 13). This is lower than the average (104 species) and median (121 species) for autumn over a comparable five year period when all of Barmah-Millewa wetlands sites had been surveyed, and is likely to reflect the very dry weather conditions that have been experienced this year.

However, species diversity was quite variable between each 20x20m quadrat in autumn 2016, ranging from only three species (as observed at Little Rushy Swamp Q1.1) up to 22 species (as observed in Boals Deadwood Q2.2 & 2.3, which are usually the quadrats containing the greatest number of species) (Table 14). Of note was the finding that very few of the lowest (more flood prone) quadrats continue to possess any exotic species despite having dried when exotic species are known to colonise.

Compared to the recent monitoring three months earlier in summer, some quadrats have now experienced an increase in species diversity while other showed a decrease in species diversity, some being native while others exotic, with no obvious trend for elevation or flood status apart from the lower sites having less exotic species (Table 15). When compared to a wet autumn (as occurred in 2010), this autumn had less species (both native and exotic) in nearly all quadrats (Table 16), whereas when compared to a dry autumn (as occurred in 2008), this autumn had more species (both native and exotic) in nearly all quadrats (Table 17).

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Table 13: Summary groupings of species surveyed during autumn 2016 across all sentinel study sites. Key to Plant Functional Group codes [from Casanova 2011]: S Submerged ARp Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (morphologically plastic) ARf Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (floating/stranded) ATe Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) ATl Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (low growing) Tda Terrestrial: damp places Tdr Terrestrial: dry places

Divisions Families Species Native Exotic Naturalised Uncertain Divisions 6 37 87 60 22 3 2 - Alga 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Dicot 1 26 59 37 19 2 1 - Fern 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 - Lichen 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Liverwort 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Monocot 1 6 23 18 3 1 1 - Moss 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 PFG (habit) 8 37 87 60 22 3 2 - S 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - ARp 3 4 5 5 0 0 0 - ARf 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 - ATe 2 8 21 17 2 1 1 - ATl 1 5 7 7 0 0 0 - Tda 4 18 31 19 11 0 1 - Tdr 2 11 19 8 9 2 0 Status 2 37 87 60 22 3 2 - V 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - v 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - k 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 - no status 6 36 84 57 22 3 2 Origin 3 37 87 60 22 3 2 - Native 6 28 60 60 0 0 0 - Exotic 2 12 22 0 22 0 0 - Naturalised 2 3 3 0 0 3 0 - Uncertain 2 2 2 0 0 0 2

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Table 14: Number of species recorded at each quadrat during the autumn 2016 monitoring period. Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 15 species, of which 6 were exotic). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Swamp Plain 1.0 7 (0) 5 (0) 1.1 12 (1) 9 (0) 8 (0) 9 (0) 5 (0) 8 (0) 6 (1) 5 (1) 4 (0) 6 (0) 5 (0) 1.2 17 (2) 11 (1) 9 (2) 6 (0) 5 (0) 13 (0) 4 (0) 12 (2) 10 (1) 10 (1) 5 (0) 1.3 15 (6) 17 (5) 7 (0) 3 (0) 4 (0) 14 (0) 7 (2) 14 (3) 13 (1) 6 (0) 5 (1) 1.4 3 (0) 2.0 11 (1) 3 (0) 2.1 7 (0) 8 (1) 4 (0) 7 (0) 6 (0) 4 (0) 7 (0) 7 (0) 5 (0) 5 (0) 7 (0) 2.2 22 (5) 8 (0) 12 (4) 5 (0) 4 (0) 8 (0) 7 (2) 17 (4) 12 (3) 12 (2) 3 (0) 2.3 22 (5) 9 (2) 13 (3) 8 (1) 3 (0) 12 (0) 14 (4) 15 (3) 13 (1) 11 (2) 6 (1) 2.4 16 (4)

Table 15: Difference between autumn 2016 from autumn 2013 when all sites were last monitored (positive numbers represent an increase in autumn 2016 compared to autumn 2013). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 6 fewer species this autumn compared with three years ago in autumn 2013, including 1 less exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Swamp Plain 1.0 +1 (0) +3 (0) 1.1 -1 (0) +2 (0) +1 (0) +2 (0) +1 (0) -2 (0) +3 (+1) -5 (+1) -1 (0) 0 (0) -1 (0) 1.2 +3 (+2) +2 (0) +5 (+2) +2 (0) +2 (0) +4 (0) -5 (-1) -8 (-1) -4 (-1) +4 (0) +2 (0) 1.3 -5 (-1) +9 (+5) +4 (0) -2 (0) 0 (0) +6 (0) -10 (-3) +1 (+2) +2 (+1) -4 (-2) 0 (+1) 1.4 -1 (0) 2.0 +3 (+1) +1 (0) 2.1 -1 (0) +6 (+1) -1 (0) -2 (0) +2 (0) -5 (0) -1 (-1) -2 (0) 0 (0) -4 (0) 0 (0) 2.2 +2 (+3) -3 (-1) +10 (+4) -2 (0) -1 (0) +1 (0) -4 (0) +8 (+4) -2 (+1) +4 (+2) 0 (0) 2.3 +1 (+2) -1 (+2) +7 (+2) -5 (-1) -1 (0) +8 (0) +1 (-1) +5 (+2) +1 (-2) -5 (-2) +2 (0) 2.4 +7 (+2)

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Table 16: Difference between autumn 2016 from autumn 2010 which was a wet weather year with flooding (positive numbers represent an increase in autumn 2016 compared to autumn 2010). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 8 fewer species this autumn compared with six years ago in autumn 2010, including 7 less exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Swamp Plain 1.0 1.1 -7 (-5) -13 (-9) -7 (-6) -4 (-4) -8 (-1) -7 (-1) -12 (-4) -12 (-6) -2 (-2) -3 (-3) -9 (-6) 1.2 -14 (-7) -17 (-8) -9 (-4) -12 (-5) -10 (-3) -6 (-5) -24 (-10) -17 (-7) 0 (0) +4 (-2) -2 (-1) 1.3 -8 (-7) +1 (+4) -17 (-6) -8 (-2) -12 (-6) -4 (-5) -18 (-9) -17 (-11) -4 (-6) -11 (-7) -1 (-1) 1.4 -3 (0) 2.0 2.1 -5 (-1) -4 (-1) -15 (-7) -3 (-3) -10 (-3) -10 (-3) -9 (-6) -12 (-3) -1 (-2) -3 (-3) -2 (-3) 2.2 -6 (-4) -9 (-3) -11 (-3) -7 (-3) -10 (-1) -9 (-3) -20 (-8) -2 (-3) +5 (+2) +4 (-1) -4 (0) 2.3 -3 (-4) +1 (-1) -8 (-1) -6 (-4) -7 (-1) -3 (-4) -2 (-5) -8 (-7) -7 (-8) -5 (-3) -1 (0) 2.4 +7 (+2)

Table 17: Difference between autumn 2016 from autumn 2008 which was a very dry weather year without flooding (positive numbers represent an increase in autumn 2016 compared to autumn 2008). Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 10 more species this autumn compared with eight years ago in autumn 2008, including 5 more exotic species). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Swamp Plain 1.0 1.1 +5 (-1) +2 (0) +3 (0) +5 (0) -3 (-1) +3 (0) +4 (0) +4 (+1) 0 (0) +3 (0) +2 (0) 1.2 +6 (-1) +3 (0) +6 (+1) -1 (0) +1 (0) +4 (-1) 0 (-1) +6 (+2) +6 (0) +10 (+1) +1 (-1) 1.3 +10 (+5) +11 (+4) +2 (-1) -3 (0) +1 (0) +9 (0) -3 (0) +9 (+2) +8 (+1) +6 (0) +1 (0) 1.4 -2 (-1) 2.0 2.1 +2 (0) +1 (0) 0 (0) +1 (-2) -2 (-1) -8 (-2) +4 (0) +4 (0) +1 (0) +5 (0) +2 (-1) 2.2 +11 (0) +2 (0) +9 (+3) +1 (-1) +2 (0) +1 (-1) +3 (+1) +11 (+4) +9 (+2) +12 (+2) -2 (0) 2.3 +13 (+2) +5 (+2) +6 (0) +4 (0) 0 (0) +7 (-1) +7 (+3) +9 (+3) +10 (+1) +11 (+2) 0 (-1) 2.4 +11 (+4)

Just under one half (46%) of angiosperm (plants that flower) species were found to be flowering in at least at one of the study site wetlands at the time of survey this month (Appendix 2). Most terrestrial grasses at higher elevated quadrats, and many wetland plants at lower quadrats, were observed to be have senesced, which is expected to be due to preceding drying than average weather conditions prior to monitoring (as seen earlier in Figure 3).

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The distribution of plant functional groups (following Casanova 2011) continues to reflect the elevation in relation to flood history, despite most of the quadrats now being dry (Appendix 7). As expected, the lower quadrats of all wetlands tend to have a greater number of amphibious plant functional groups (ARp, ARf, ATe, ATl), whereas the higher elevated quadrats have more terrestrial species (Tda, Tdr). Very few submerged plant functional group species were observed this autumn, due to the now mostly dry conditions.

In terms of conservation significance, one nationally-listed ‘vulnerable’ species (Amphibromus fluitans) was found at Little Rushy Swamp (Q1.1, 1.2), Steamer Plain (Q1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.3) and Duck Lagoon (Q1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2), while two nationally-listed ‘suspected-to-be-vulnerable’ species were located; Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii was located at Boals Deadwoods (Q2.2), and Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) was located at Top Island Original Site (Q2.3).

Dominant species found to be occurring at each study site during the autumn 2016 monitoring period are summarised below:

1. Boals Deadwoods remained strongly dominated by Juncus ingens in the lowest (more flood prone) quadrats, although Azolla filiculoides that was also co- dominate last season has now mostly disappeared in the dry conditions. Phragmites australis remains thin and exhibiting signs of having been heavily browsed (presumably by feral horses given tracks, scats, height of defoliation and animals observed present in the quadrat). Mid zones showed a relatively large diversity but mostly senescing flood dependant plant species or early colonising species, while the upper drier zone contained more flood tolerant species such as Carex tereticaulis and Lobelia concolor.

2. Top Island Burnt Site lowest zone sees further growth of Juncus ingens at the expense of Phragmites australis which was senescing in the drying conditions and showing signs of having been heavily browsed by feral horses, although this is now joined by a high cover abundance of Alternanthera denticulata, Persicaria hydropiper and Stellaria caespitosa. The mid-zone, which has now been dry for up to 6 months, now only supports a sparse cover of senescing species such as Persicaria hydropiper. The more elevated regions, now extremely dry, had a small diversity that were all existing in very low abundance with the most common being Lobelia concolor and Persicaria prostrata.

3. Top Island Original Site lowest zone maintained sparse Juncus ingens and increased Alternanthera denticulata growth, although Persicaria hydropiper is now senescing. The mid-and upper monitored zones continue to be very dry and sparse of understorey species cover, with Dittrichia graveolens* and Einadia nutans being the most evident.

4. Little Rushy Swamp remains dry since summer although Juncus ingens remains the structural dominant of Q1.1 and Q2.1, although Amphibromus fluitans and Pseudoraphis spinescens now common on the floor along with some patches of Chenopodium pumilio. Amphibromus fluitans extends into Q1.2 where it is

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otherwise dominated by Ludwigia peploides, whereas similar elevated and flood regime in Q2.2 instead has Pseudoraphis spinescens and Chenopodium pumilio. As in previous years following flood recession, Amphibromus fluitans (nationally- threatened) and Pseudoraphis spinescens have both been heavily cropped by grazing by horses and kangaroos, while feral pig damage remains evident form when the wetland was drying during the summer period. The highest monitored zone, represented by Q1.3 & 2.3, remained extremely dry and exhibited only a very sparse cover from a diversity of stunted and mostly senesced terrestrial species with Carex tereticaulis and Juncus sp remaining the most prominent.

5. Top Lake bed remained very dry following drying in summer after the site had experienced shallow flooding in winter-spring, with Alternanthera denticulata, Persicaria prostrata and Ludwigia peploides providing the greatest cover abundance of the species. Alternanthera denticulata maintained its domination into the lake bed margin (being monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2), which was otherwise mostly bare ground and eucalypt leaf litter. The highest elevated region of the wetland, which has now not experienced any flooding in the past 2.5 years, was mostly near complete senescent Carex tereticaulis present over a carpet of dry eucalypt leaves.

6. Steamer Plain lowest zones were exceptionally green due to recent drying from otherwise shallow flooding that has persisted at these low sites since flooding commenced last winter with Juncus ingens remaining dominant. Eleocharis acuta dominates the understorey of Q1.1, but interestingly none was found in Q2.1, with this latter site being slightly more flood prone through ponding. Instead, E. acuta was more prevalent in adjoining Q2.2 to be similar to Q1.1 & 1.2. Azolla filiculoides persisted in the lowest quadrats as near dry crust only where heavy shade existed. The mid zones now show Ludwigia peploides declining while Myriophyllum crispatum has now all but senesced. The most elevated region being monitored in vegetation zone 4 varied between the two transects (as usual at this site) with Q1.4 continuing to exhibit very little understorey vegetation due to heavy shading and large volume of fallen eucalypt leaf litter, compared to Q2.4 where Carex gaudichaudiana and some Juncus sp remains most abundant despite showing senescence in the dry conditions.

7. Wathours Lagoon deepest regions continue to be dominated by Juncus ingens, and in Q1.1 also by Typha orientalis, although Azolla filiculoides now remains only in heavy shade where some soil moisture remains evident. Juncus ingens also continue to dominate the slightly more elevated Q1.1 & 2.1 region, but here Persicaria hydropiper (and Phragmites australis in Q2.1) are also common. The next elevated region of the wetland, Vegetation Zone 2, was above Juncus ingens area and very dry with cracked sediment and supported only an extremely sparse understorey of most Terrestrial Damp (Tda) specie that had mostly senesced in the dry conditions with none having over 0.5% cover. The highest elevated regions of Wathours Lagoon, which have never been flooded during the conduct of this project, remains very sparse since summer with most cover coming from the exotic species Marrubium vulgare* with up to 8% cover.

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8. Reed Beds Swamp deepest quadrats (Q1.0 & 2.0) were now dry (although some dampness remained) following cessation of EWA delivery to the wetland in early February. Very tall Phragmites australis remains as a near monoculture now that other small aquatic species have now mostly senesced. In the slightly more elevated quadrats of Vegetation Zone 1 (monitored by Q1.1 & 2.1), Juncus ingens was the structural dominant (apart from mature River Red Gums) with very sparse cover from other species. The next elevated region of Vegetation Zone 2 (monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2) was very dry, being above the area of influence from current environmental water allocations, and supported only a sparse albeit occasional patchy number of plants that were largely senescing, particularly Carex tereticaulis and Marsilea drummondii with previously abundant Eleocharis acuta now all but dry. The highest elevated zone of this wetland being monitored, recorded by this project as being Vegetation Zone 3 (monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3) was extremely dry with only a very sparse cover of mostly Carex inversa.

9. Black Gate Lagoon deepest zone is the only of this project’s study sites to continue to pond surface water. Juncus ingens continues to infill the wetland bed, although any regions of remaining open water possesses strong domination of Azolla filiculoides (and Myriophyllum papillosum in Q2.1). An incidental observation (given that the sighting was outside of the sub-samples taken within Q1.1) of Ludwigia palustris* represents the first record of this exotic aquatic weed in Barmah-Millewa Forest by this project. This zone contrasts enormously to the other more elevated zones of this wetland which were found to be extremely dry in both spring and summer this year where very low cover abundance of any understorey species currently exists. Patches of the native parasitic shrub Exocarpos strictus continue to expand in these areas (evident from new small plants), albeit still in low cover abundance of less than 3%.

10. Duck Lagoon’s deepest zone has only recently lost surface water given the damp terrain remaining at the site. Here, Juncus ingens continues to recolonise following fire and drought in autumn 2008 (as can be observed from photo-points in Appendix 5). Amphibromus fluitans, Myriophyllum crispatum and Stellaria caespitosa were also very common. Most of these species also persisted into vegetation zone 2 (Q1.2 & 2.2), although Persicaria prostrata was here most common. The highest elevated zone being monitored by this project, Vegetation Zone 3, has remained unflooded for the duration of monitoring since inception in spring 2007. This vegetation zone remains exceptionally dry with no understorey species exceeding 1% cover. Rabbits continue to be of particular note at this location abutting the sandier soils of the Cadell escarpment, with numerous dropping and frequent sightings of the animals during the daylight hours when the vegetation survey was being undertaken.

11. Algaboia Plain is now very dry following the most recent shallow flooding of the wetland floor in spring 2015. The wetland bed is now being strongly dominated by a thatch of Eleocharis acuta, although most has now senesced, otherwise revealing patches of Persicaria prostrata. The more elevated Vegetation Zone 2, being in heavy shade of thick spindly River Red Gum regrowth, was largely bereft

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of understorey species apart from a small amount of Alternanthera denticulata, Centipeda cunninghamii and Eleocharis acuta. The dry uppermost zone (monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3) now mostly only shows senesced plants from spring/summer and Eucalypt leaf litter.

Observations of particular interest include the continued finding of Juncus ingens at Top Island Q2.1 containing a large volume of senescent leaf material and only few new shoots, despite having a seemingly ideal shallow flood regime in spring that the species usually thrives in. By contrast, J. ingens at Boals Deadwoods, Steamer Plain, Wathours Lagoon, Reed Beds Swamp, Black Gate Lagoon and Duck Lagoon all supports healthy stands of the rush, and all experienced longer flood duration than that from Top Island. Consideration of extending flood duration at Top Island may need to be considered if the species is to be promoted, otherwise maintaining the recent drier regime may be preferable to discouraging the species.

Pseudoraphis spinescens was only found at Barmah Forest wetlands this autumn, where it remains most common only at Little Rushy Swamp, although now in dry growth phase and mostly grazed to represent a ten-fold decrease in cover abundance since previously monitored in January 2016 with only 3.3% remaining. The grazing exclusion fence (mentioned in the last monitoring report) remains scheduled for construction at this site by GB CMA in autumn 2016 and will include more intensive monitoring inside and outside of the fence to determine recovery of understorey species (Keith Ward, pers. comm.).

The sharp boundary between flooded floodplain and non-flooded floodplain, as displayed by vegetation response during the environmental watering event in spring 2015, has now become less distinctive apart from senescent plant material that remains (Plate 6).

Plate 6: Flood boundary change between spring (18/10/2015) and autumn (08/04/2016) as displayed at Top Island Original Site between Q2.1 & Q2.2.

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4.2.2.4 Winter 2016:

A moderate level of understorey plant diversity was found to exist at the study sites this month with 103 species identified, of which only 30% were exotic (Table 18). This is a similar number to the most recent monitored winter in 2014 (Ward 2014a) but less than in 2011 and 2012 (Ward 2011a, 2012a) where between 120 and 130 species were recorded in those consistently wetter years.

Species diversity remained quite variable between each 20x20m quadrat, ranging from only two species (as observed at Reed Beds Swamp Q2.1) up to 25 species (as observed in Boals Deadwood Q1.2 & 2.3, and Top Island Original Site Q2.3) (Table 19). Of note was the finding that very few of the lowest (more flood prone) quadrats continue to possess relatively few exotic species despite having dried when exotic species are known to colonise.

Only 22 of the 100 identified angiosperm (plants that flower) species were found to be flowering in at least at one of the study site wetlands at the time of survey this month (Appendix 2). There was a strong differentiation in apparent health of the species on the floodplain when monitored this winter, with previously extant species most senesced, while a fresh batch of seedlings were readily apparent following the recent winter rains. Some of the senesced species were may have been affected by frost, with fresh shoots only observed where protected by senesced thatch or from extant taller species.

The distribution of plant functional groups (following Casanova 2011) continues to reflect the elevation in relation to flood history, despite most of the quadrats now being dry for at least 6 months. As expected, the lower quadrats of all wetlands tend to have a greater number of amphibious plant functional groups (ARp, ARf, ATe, ATl), whereas the higher elevated quadrats have more terrestrial species (Tda, Tdr). Very few submerged plant functional group species were observed this winter, due to the now mostly non-flooded conditions.

In terms of conservation significance, one nationally-listed ‘vulnerable’ species (Amphibromus fluitans) was found at Boals Deadwoods (Q1.1, 2.2, 2.3), Little Rushy Swamp (Q1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.1), Top Lake (Q2.1), Steamer Plain (Q1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.2, 2.3), Wathours Lagoon (Q1.1, 2.0,2.1), Duck Lagoon (Q1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2) and Algaboia Plain (Q2.1), while two nationally-listed ‘suspected-to-be-vulnerable’ species were located; Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii was located at Boals Deadwoods (Q2.2), and Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) was located at Top Island Original Site (Q2.3) and Black Gate Lagoon Q1.3.

The finding of Amphibromus fluitans at so many sites this winter (in 7 of the 11 wetlands and 21 of 72 quadrats) may reflect good growing conditions at flooded sites over spring/summer, plus strong response to recent high rainfall totals. Anecdotal observations also suggest that grazing pressure has recently lightened with kangaroos (and feral horses in Barmah Forest) spreading throughout the forest and away from wetland sites due to apparent green pick now prevalent throughout the forest and not restricted to wetland sites as had occurred during this past dry year.

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Table 18: Summary groupings of species surveyed during winter 2016 across all sentinel study sites. Key to Plant Functional Group codes [from Casanova 2011]: S Submerged ARp Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (morphologically plastic) ARf Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (floating/stranded) ATe Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) ATl Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (low growing) Tda Terrestrial: damp places Tdr Terrestrial: dry places

Divisions Families Species Native Exotic Naturalised Uncertain Divisions 7 43 107 73 31 1 2 - Alga 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Dicot 1 30 74 45 28 0 1 - Fern 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 - Lichen 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 - Liverwort 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 - Monocot 1 6 24 19 3 1 1 - Moss 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 PFG (habit) 7 43 103 69 31 1 2 - S 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 - ARp 3 5 7 7 0 0 0 - ARf 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 - ATe 2 8 20 17 1 1 1 - ATl 2 6 8 8 0 0 0 - Tda 5 22 44 26 17 0 1 - Tdr 2 11 19 6 13 0 0 Status 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 - V 1 1 1 1 0 70 0 - v 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - k 1 2 2 2 0 0 0 - no status 4 42 100 66 31 1 2 Origin 12 52 103 69 31 1 2 - Native 7 33 69 69 0 0 0 - Exotic 2 16 31 0 31 0 0 - Naturalised 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 - Uncertain 2 2 2 0 0 0 2

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Table 19: Number of species recorded at each quadrat during the winter 2016 monitoring period. Total number of all species, with number of known exotic species in parenthesis (e.g., read as Boals Deadwoods Quadrat 1.3 had 23 species, of which 9 were exotic). Greyed cells represent no quadrat present (sites with ‘0’ or ‘4’ quadrats represent extended transects, either to deeper or shallower regions, subsequent to the original establishment and monitoring of those transects). Quadrat Boals Top Island Top Island Little Rushy Top Steamer Wathours Reed Beds Black Gate Duck Algaboia Number Deadwoods (Burnt site) (Orig. Site) Swamp Lake Plain Lagoon Swamp Lagoon Swamp Plain 1.0 14 (0) 4 (0) 1.1 15 (1) 12 (1) 10 (0) 16 (2) 15 (2) 9 (0) 12 (0) 9 (1) 4 (0) 5 (0) 2 (0) 1.2 25 (4) 17 (1) 16 (2) 11 (1) 12 (2) 12 (0) 20 (7) 21 (7) 20 (6) 14 (4) 9 (1) 1.3 23 (9) 23 (5) 24 (10) 10 (2) 15 (3) 13 (1) 21 (9) 16 (5) 19 (7) 15 (5) 16 (3) 1.4 10 (2) 2.0 18 (1) 2 (0) 2.1 12 (0) 7 (0) 16 (1) 12 (0) 16 (1) 9 (0) 16 (3) 8 (0) 7 (0) 5 (0) 9 (1) 2.2 24 (7) 11 (0) 24 (6) 11 (0) 18 (1) 13 (1) 18 (7) 19 (6) 22 (7) 13 (1) 7 (0) 2.3 25 (6) 21 (4) 25 (7) 17 (2) 12 (2) 13 (3) 17 (7) 14 (6) 17 (8) 13 (4) 12 (3) 2.4 21 (4)

Dominant species found to be occurring at each study site during the winter 2016 monitoring period are summarised below:

1. Boals Deadwoods remained strongly dominated by Juncus ingens in the lowest (more flood prone) quadrats, although the species was exhibiting seasonal senesce and damage feral horses and pigs in the dry conditions. Phragmites australis remains thin and exhibiting signs of having been heavily browsed (presumably by feral horses given tracks, scats, height of defoliation and animals observed present in the quadrat). Mid and upper zones showed recent strong germination of species responding to the wet winter conditions, notably from Anagallis arvensis*, Cerastium glomeratum*, Ranunculus inundatus, Ranunculus sessiliflorus, with Ehrharta erecta*, Galium aparine*, Lobelia concolor and unknown Poaceae also prevelant in the uppermost regions.

2. Top Island Burnt Site lowest zone sees increased growth of Stellaria caespitosa with some Alternanthera denticulata amongst Juncus ingens, while Phragmites australis largely remains senescent since autumn. The mid-zone, which has now been unflooded for up to 8 months, is mostly supporting Ranunculus inundatus and Stellaria caespitosa following the rainfall. The more elevated regions are showing strong germination from the seedbank with masses of very small seedlings of Anagallis arvensis*, Asperula conferta, Ranunculus inundatus and Ranunculus sessiliflorus.

3. Top Island Original Site lowest zone maintained sparse Juncus ingens and increased Alternanthera denticulata growth, while Persicaria hydropiper has now remained senescent since autumn but showing some seedling regrowth. The mid monitored zones are now rapidly greening up with masses of seedling from

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Cardamine paucijuga, Ranunculus inundatus and Ranunculus sessiliflorus. The upper most monitored zone is now exhibiting a strong return in diversity, albeit currently spare in volume, but largely dominated by moss and Ranunculus sessiliflorus.

4. Little Rushy Swamp remains dry since summer although Juncus ingens remains the structural dominant of Q1.1 and Q2.1, although Amphibromus fluitans (nationally- threatened) and Pseudoraphis spinescens remain common on the floor, Chenopodium pumilio is now senescing while some strong patches of Ludwigia peploides and Stellaria caespitosa persist. As in previous years following flood recession, Amphibromus fluitans and Pseudoraphis spinescens both remain heavily cropped by grazing by horses and kangaroos, while feral pig damage remains evident form when the wetland was drying during the summer period. The highest monitored zone, represented by Q1.3 & 2.3 is now showing a distinct greening on the otherwise heavy leaf litter floor, with seasonal germinates of Cardamine paucijuga (in Q1.3) and Anagallis arvensis* (in Q2.3) being most common.

5. Top Lake bed is now mostly being colonised by Stellaria caespitosa, while some strong patches of Alternanthera denticulata and Ranunculus sessiliflorus also occurs. In the mid-zone, Alternanthera denticulata persists but is also shares space with Cardamine paucijuga. In the upper most very infrequently flooded region of the site, Anagallis arvensis joins Cardamine paucijuga as the most prevalent species having recent mass germination.

6. Steamer Plain lowest zones (1&2) continue to be dominated by Juncus ingens which has remained largely green despite other forest sites where less earlier flood recession has left it largely senescing at those sites. Eleocharis acuta also retains some strong growth despite a high abundance of residual thatch from the species following summer flooding. Ludwigia peploides also provides some high cover abundance at these sites, although the species was similarly showing considerable leaf senesce. The slightly higher elevated zones (Q1.3 & 2.3), existing above the summer ponding level, now exhibit strong growth of Amphibromus fluitans, Eleocharis acuta and Stellaria caespitosa, while the upper zone (Q1.4 & 2.4) was largely supporting a diversity of very young seasonal germinats such as Cardamine paucijuga.

7. Wathours Lagoon deepest regions continue to be dominated by Juncus ingens, and in Q1.1 also by Typha orientalis (although here it is now largely senescent and grazed), while floating aquatics such as Azolla filiculoides and Ricciocarpos natans persist only in heavy shade where some soil moisture remains evident. Juncus ingens also continue to dominate the slightly more elevated region, but here Persicaria hydropiper (in Q1.1) and Ranunculus inundatus (in Q2.1) are also common. The next elevated region of the wetland, Vegetation Zone 2, was above Juncus ingens area where instead Anagallis arvensis*, Echium plantagineum* and Ranunculus inundatus are creating most of the green floor. The highest elevated regions of Wathours Lagoon, which have never been flooded during the conduct

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of this project, possess the greatest diversity of exotic species where strong patches of Arctotheca calendula*, Echium plantagineum*, Marrubium vulgare*, Trifolium sp.* and Urtica urens* occur.

8. Reed Beds Swamp deepest quadrats (Q1.0 & 2.0) remained dry since autumn (although some dampness remained) where very tall Phragmites australis remains as a near monoculture with only some minor Riccia duplex and Ricciocarpos natans occurring in damp regions. In the slightly more elevated quadrats of Vegetation Zone 1 (monitored by Q1.1 & 2.1), Juncus ingens was the structural dominant (apart from mature River Red Gums) with very sparse cover from other species. The next elevated region of Vegetation Zone 2 (monitored by Q1.2 & 2.2) was very dry, being above the area of influence from the spring/summer environmental water allocations, and supported only a sparse albeit occasional patchy number of plants, particularly Galium aparine* and Marsilea drummondii. The highest elevated zone of this wetland being monitored, recorded by this project as being Vegetation Zone 3 (monitored by Q1.3 & 2.3) was now considerably greened up with an unknown Poaceae species (too early in its germination to confirm identification), although exotic Avena*, Broumus* and Vulpia* species have commonly been recorded as occurring at these sites in previous years..

9. Black Gate Lagoon deepest zone is the only of this project’s study sites to continue to pond surface water. Juncus ingens continues to infill the wetland bed, although any regions of remaining open water possesses strong domination of Azolla filiculoides and Myriophyllum papillosum. No further observation of Ludwigia palustris* was made when inspected in June. This zone continues to contrast enormously to the other more elevated zones of this wetland which do not pond floodwater, with mid zone supporting increased growth of Exocarpos strictus with a ground cover of seasonal opportunists such as Cardamine paucijuga, Anagallis arvensis*, Galium aparine* and Hypochaeris radicata*. The uppermost zone, which largely remains out of the influence of flooding, instead contains mostly Echium plantagineum*, Hypochaeris radicata* and Trifolium sp.*

10. Duck Lagoon’s deepest zone was strongly characterised by a near monoculture carpet of bright green Stellaria caespitosa amongst patches of Juncus ingens, while the mid zone mostly supported the nationally-endangered Amphibromus fluitans with patches of exotic Cirsium vulgare*. The highest elevated zone being monitored by this project, Vegetation Zone 3, has remained unflooded for the duration of monitoring since inception in spring 2007. This vegetation zone is currently exhibiting strong germination from Cotula australis and unknown Poaceae (too early in its germination to confirm identification), while Echium plantagineum* occurs in patches. Rabbits continue to be of particular note at this location abutting the sandier soils of the Cadell escarpment, with numerous dropping and frequent sightings of the animals during the daylight hours when the vegetation survey was being undertaken.

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11. Algaboia Plain lowest zone retains an extremely thick thatch of Eleocharis acuta, although some green stems remain where protected from frost. The mid-zone region, largely beneath a heavy overstorey of River Red Gum, continues to be sparsely populated by understorey species, whereas the more open upper vegetation zone is now being rapidly colonised by a diversity of new germinants (particularly of Cardamine paucijuga and Stellaria caespitosa) following the recent rains to replace the previous carpet of Eucalypt leaf litter.

Observations of particular interest include the continued finding of Juncus ingens at Top Island Q2.1 containing a large volume of senescent leaf material and only few new shoots, despite having a seemingly ideal shallow flood regime in spring that the species usually thrives in. By contrast, J. ingens at Boals Deadwoods, Steamer Plain, Wathours Lagoon, Reed Beds Swamp, Black Gate Lagoon and Duck Lagoon all supports healthy stands of the rush, and all experienced longer flood duration than that from Top Island. Consideration of extending flood duration at Top Island may need to be considered if the species is to be promoted, otherwise maintaining the recent drier regime may be preferable to discouraging the species.

Pseudoraphis spinescens was found at an increasing number of wetlands this season, with eight of the 11 wetland study sites currently supporting its growth, although it remains only common at Little Rushy Swamp (with up to 17% cover abundance compared with less than 0.5% at the other wetland quadrats).

Clear signs of senesce in many understorey plant species is likely to reflect previous dry conditions prior to recent high rainfall totals, but potentially also of damage from frosts. Species observed to remain actively growing away from the shelter of larger plants despite being prone to frost include Alternanthera denticulata (Plate 7).

Plate 7: Frost on Alternanthera denticulata at Algaboia Plain Q2.1 (13/06/2016)

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4.2.3 Trends of vegetation response over the past ten years of monitoring:

As stated earlier, the detailed analysis of the data is currently being performed as part of a collaborative undertaking with Deakin University and the University of Canberra, and will be presented at a later date following peer review. All data previously collected by this project has had some detailed statistical analysis completed, with one book chapter (Stokes et al. 2010a) and one scientific paper (Stokes et al. 2010b) having already been published. Intensions are to publish additional papers based on the further statistical analysis via Deakin University and the University of Canberra.

However, in general, this year’s dataset appears to continue to support the trends outlined by Alexander et al. (2008), Catford & Downes (2010), Catford et al. (2011) and Stokes et al. (2010a&b) that higher, drier, terrain tend to be more prone to colonisation by exotic terrestrial (mesic and xeric) species, whereas the more flood-prone regions contain a higher proportion of native wetland species (Appendix 7).

Juncus ingens continues to exhibit interesting trends. The species was in declining low cover abundance during the Millennium Drought at most Barmah (Figure 6a) and Millewa (Figure 6b) wetlands. Widespread and prolonged flooding in 2010-12 saw the species rebound with peak cover abundance at most wetlands in 2012-13, although this trend is now again declining at many sites. Cover abundance of J.ingens at Boals Deadwoods, Top Island (except TIB1.1), Wathours Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp have all declined, with some sites approaching levels recorded during the latter stages of the Millennium Drought. However, the trend at other sites continues to increase, such as Top Island Burnt Site 1.1 (which is distinctly different to the collapsed bed 100m away at the adjoining Top Island Burnt Site 2.1), Little Rushy Swamp 1.1 (but not 2.1), Steamer Plain, Black Gate Lagoon and Duck Lagoon.

The reason for some J. ingens decreasing while at other sites it continues to increase is not accurately known, although it may be related to stem age, moisture availability and shading from intra-and inter-specific competition. Sites such as Top Island Burnt Site, provide an interesting example. Following fire in 2006, all above ground biomass of the species was removed. Upon flooding in 2010, the species rapidly grew to dominate all open ground, presumably areas where rhizomes existed prior to the burn (presumed because this study commenced only after the fire burnt the site). Quadrat 1.1 differed from the adjoining Q2.1 by sharing the quadrat with an abundance of Phragmites australis (again, presumably already occurring as a patch at that location prior to the fire), with J. ingens in Q1.1 is likely to have been supressed by the taller and more abundant P. australis in that quadrat, whereas in the adjoining Q2.1, J. ingens rapidly grew to dominate with abundant new growth within three years (2012-13). But with return to more normal seasonal wet-dry flooding sequences in the following years, P. australis has thinned at Q1.1 permitting J. ingens at that location to gradually expand, while the existing domination of J. ingens at Q2.1 now appears to be chocked by uniform-aged senescent stems that are collapsing the culms to form shade and supress new growth.

A similar trend has been observed at Boals Deadwoods (which the study site quadrats at the edge of the wetland do not reflect the deeper sites in the middle of the wetland where waterbird breeding usually occurs on those reedbeds; pers. obs.). Environmental water had

Page 55 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report been supplied to Boals Deadwoods during the Millennium Drought specifically to re-invigorate the J. ingens stands to regain their suitability as ibis and spoonbill nesting sites in the ensuing years if drought conditions were to break (MDBA 2009). The stands in the centre of the wetland experience more prolonged flooding than those towards the edge of the wetland where the study site quadrats are located (due largely to different ponding characteristics). J. ingens (and P. australis) in the middle of the wetland where more prolonged flooding occurs remain in apparent healthy thick condition (pers. obs.), whereas the species exhibit patches of broad scale senescence and collapse of the brittle stems from wind and feral pigs/horses in areas around the perimeter of the wetland such as those in the monitored quadrats. Without frequent prolonged flooding, uniformly aged stems are appearing to all senesce in the drying conditions to cause mass collapse of the stands, similar to that observed in Top Island Burnt Site 2.1.

Steamer Plain sites mostly show gradual increase of J. ingens, being sites where long-term monitoring has shown the rush to colonise with the frequent shallow flooding that this wetland experiences. However, Q2.2 at Steamer Plain was burnt by a fire in spring 2008 (part of an agency controlled burning program). J. ingens rebounded with uniformly-aged stems at this site, but frequent and prolonged shallow flooding at this sites has prevented the stands from senescing as they have at sites that experience briefer periods of flooding (as can also be clearly seen in the photo-points provided in Appendix 5). Similar for the maintenance of increasing growth at Black Gate Lagoon (which is a deeply ponding location) and Duck Lagoon (frequently inundated from natural flooding and environmental water allocations for adjoining Reed Beds Swamp, although the quadrats where J. ingens dominate at Reed Beds Swamp have shown a slight decline similar to Boals Deadwoods and likely to be for similar reasons at that site of being on the outer edge of the wetland where ponding is much shorter.

As such, then sites where J. ingens is desired to exist in thick stands, such as at ibis and spoonbill nesting sites, then prolonged (but not permanent) shallow flooding is to be maintained. Conversely, J. ingens may be discouraged by ensuring that the site dries over summer-autumn. Consideration ought to also be given to uniformity of the age-structure of the stands, as mass senesce of aged stems may lead to widespread shading and reduction of J. ingens, but possibly also reducing growth of other understorey species if the stand was previous dominant at the site (given that the resultant stand collapse will create heavy shade at that location). It would therefore appear that to avoid uniform stand structure in the first instance is preferable so as to permit the creation of mosaics where partial reedbed senesce is likely to provide more favourable opportunities for other understorey species to colonise.

Domination of P. australis also appears to suppress the growth and spread of J. ingens where the two species co-exist, which is likely to simply be via direct shading of the taller P. australis upon the smaller J. ingens. Both species require similar flood regimes, although P. australis tolerates deeper flooding than J. ingens (Roberts & Marston 2011).

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Figure 6a: Mean annual cover estimates of Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) over the past ten years at dominant Barmah Forest quadrats.

Figure 6b: Mean annual cover estimates of Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) over the past nine years at dominant Millewa Forest quadrats.

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Trends in Pseudoraphis spinescens is best presented from only three study site wetlands (Little Rushy Swamp, Top Lake and Steamer Plain) where the most continuous data of the species exists (Figure 7). Very low cover abundance of the species existed during the Millennium Drought period as captured by data recorded in 2006 to 2010. Following the initial wet autumn in 2010 and subsequent flooding in winter- spring 2010, P. spinescens exhibited some good cover abundance increase at each of the wetlands. However, sustained increase in cover abundance was only achieved at Little Rushy Swamp, particularly Q2.2 where a thick sward came to exist (which is visually evident in the photo-points presented in Appendix 5). Although some increase in cover of P. spinescens was also present in Q1.2 at this site, the species did not come to dominate the quadrat which otherwise was strongly dominated by the nationally endangered Amphibromus fluitans. Broader observations of the wetland show that both species occur together throughout the wetland, but clear dominance of either species is frequently patchy with no clear site difference discernible.

Figure 7: Mean annual cover estimates of Pseudorpahis spinescens (Moira Grass) over the past ten years at dominant Barmah Forest quadrats.

Prolonged flooding of each of the three wetlands was initially similar to that where P. spinescens in Little Rushy Swamp had best responded, including similar drying regimes that followed. However, the long-term hydrology of Little Rushy Swamp is known to frequently miss unseasonal flooding (having a commence-to-flow threshold above that which is usually flooded by such flows, but will pond water for months following any inundation that is received). As such, the flood regime of Little Rushy Swamp appears to have amongst the best seasonally-appropriate annual wet/dry regimes of the study sites.

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However, Top Lake Q1.1 & 2.1 and Steamer Plain Q1.3 & 2.3 once hosted 100% cover of P. spinescens twenty five years ago during flood events (K.Ward 1991, 1994), whereas over the past ten years the species has exhibited close to 0% cover. The five years of continuous drought post-2005 at these sites, followed by near continuous flooding in 2010-12, may therefore have been too severe for the species that is otherwise known to thrive in sites that experience annual deep flooding for 5-6 months followed by complete drying of the site (K.Ward 1991, 1994, Roberts & Marston 2011, Colloff et al. 2014).

Grazing by kangaroos and feral horses on P. spinescens appears to be particularly strong, resulting in the grass being readily cropped to ground level very soon following flood subsidence. Feral pig activity also regularly plough the damp wetland floor as floodwater subsides. In response to this threat, the Victorian government has recently authorised the construction of a 1.6km grazing exclosure fence around 12ha (approximately one half) of the significant floodplain grassy wetland (K.Ward pers. comm.).

Contraction of the Moira Grass plains, as originally warned by Chesterfield (1986) and further modelled by Bren (1992) and reinforced with recent remapping by Vivian et al. (2015), remains of concern given the continuing poor growth response of P. spinescens.

As has been reported by this project in previous years, the presence of the exotic wetland plant Sagittaria platyphylla continues to be observed in many locations in Barmah and Millewa forests and hence remains of major concern. The species is extremely invasive and difficult to control, particularly amongst mixed species where selective control is to be attempted. Establishment of the species frequently results in domination of the species to the exclusion of native biodiversity. Previous reported observations of monocultures of the species existing in most of the distributory channels off the Murray River that lead into the forest now appear to have been successfully reduced in extent by subsequent spraying activities commissioned by the state agencies. Fortunately the species was not present in any of this project’s quadrat study sites, and hence not otherwise reported above. Further urgent control activities are required in attempt to reduce the rate and impact of the spread of this species. Care must be taken in avoiding non-target species and from misidentifying similar- looking indigenous species such as Alisma plantago-aquatica, Damasonium minus and native Rumex species.

Furthermore, no new sightings were made of Lilaea scilloides, an exotic wetland plant listed as a “very high risk weed” that was first noted by this project as occurring in Barmah Forest two years ago which resulted in the management agency undertaking immediate control activities to prevent further spread of this new weed species.

4.2.3 Other observations:

A small number of significant fauna species were documented in the forest whilst undertaking recent fieldwork (and are being reported here due to some of these observations being of value to other projects, such as a project collating observation of sea-eagles in Barmah- Millewa Forest). These observations included:

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a) Australasian Bitterns calling at Boals Deadwoods (22/10/2015), Top Island Burnt Site (18/10/2015), Wathours Lagoon (24/10/2015), Reed Beds Swamp (24/10/2015) and Duck Lagoon (24/10/2015). b) Superb Parrots observed at Top Lake (four on 17/10/2015 and three on 13/06/2016). c) White-bellied Sea Eagle observed at Steamer Plain (near Q1.4 on 08/04/2016) and Black Gate Lagoon (near Q1.3 on 09/04/2016), Boals Deadwoods (12/06/2016) and over the Murray River next to Algaboia Plain (13/06/2016).

Other specific records included: a) Swan nest (vacated) found amongst thick Juncus ingens at Steamer Plain Q2.2 (17/10/2015), and another in an isolated clump of J. ingens at Steamer Plain Q2.1 (08/01/2016). b) Black Snake at Steamer Plain near Q2.3 (17/10/2015). c) Large Tiger Leeches at Top Island Burnt Site (18/10/2015) and Little Rushy Swamp (17/10/2015). d) A koala vocalising at Steamer Plain Q2.4 (08/01/2016).

Furthermore, the following general observations were made:

In spring, mosquito numbers were found to be low but housefly numbers were relatively high. Carp and Gambusia presence was observed in most wetlands. Fox tracks and scats were practically omnipresent throughout the forest, but were most readily recorded along wetland shorelines where soft ground existed.

In summer, a huge number of Jewel Spiders (Austracantha mina) (Plate 8), and a lesser number of Golden Orb Weaver Spiders (Nephila edulis), occupied practically every available gap between trees and taller understorey vegetation with their webs at many sites during summer, particularly at Boals Deadwoods, making fieldwork access a sticky chore. Fortunately for fieldwork ease, very few Jewel Spiders remained in the forest in April when undertaking the autumn monitoring run for this project, although a small number of large Golden Orb Weaver spiders did remain (Plate 9).

In autumn, Blue Green Algae blooms were found to be present in most waterways, and was particularly evident in sheltered ponded locations such as Boals Creek next to the regulator (Plate 10) and in the remaining water at Black Gate Lagoon (Plate 11). However, the blooms had dissipated when these sites were revisited in June, despite a red alert warning of elevated BGA cell counts remaining in the Murray River downstream of Yarrawonga (NSW DPI 2016).

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Plate 8: Jewel Spider (Austracantha mina) at Boals Deadwoods Q2.3 (08/01/2016).

Plate 9: Golden Orb Weaver Spider (Nephila edulis) at Boals Deadwoods Q1.2 (10/04/2016).

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Plate 10: Blue Green Algae at Boals Deadwoods regulator (08/04/2016).

Plate 11: Blue Green Algae at Black Engine Lagoon Q1.1 (09/04/2016).

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Plastic was observed to be embedded within some kangaroo dung at Algaboia Plain (Plate 12), indicating ingestion of this foreign substance by the individual. This is the first time that I have observed such a phenomenon during the past ten years of fieldwork in the forest to indicate that it is not of common occurrence.

Plate 12: Plastic embedded within kangaroo dung at Algaboia Plain Q2.1 (09/04/2016).

Of special significance, this year’s monitoring program represented the tenth year that agisted cattle grazing in Barmah Forest had been suspended (as ordered by DSE in autumn 2006, which represented the first time in approximately 160 year history of cattle grazing in the reserve; B.Wehner pers. comm.). However, grazing pressure has again been found to remain generally high throughout most of the wetlands in Barmah-Millewa Forest by other existing animal species.

Most of the herbivory appears to be from kangaroos in both Barmah and Millewa forests, with significant feral horse grazing pressure in Barmah Forest, as evidenced by frequent observations of the animals and presence of their scats (such as that exhibited in Plate 13). Grasses such as Austrodanthonia setacea, Amphobromus fluitans, Pseudoraphis spinescens, etc were frequently gazed to ground level where not protected from other taller structure (such as fallen branch of a tree or dense reed bed). Grass plains were particularly targeted by these grazing animals, resulting in a cropped turf and lack of flowering from many species. Notable exceptions of by not being grazed included Chenopodium pumilio and Juncus ingens (Plate 14), although J. ingens was observed to be lightly browsed at a number of wetlands which is very unusual and previously mostly only seen during drought periods when other grazing opportunities have become severely restricted. Grazing pressure only appeared to have dissipated somewhat in winter, commensurate with widespread rainfall creating fresh pick elsewhere throughout the forest.

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Plate 13: Kangaroo and feral horse droppings over Little Rushy Swamp (13/06/2016)

Plate 14: Chenopodium pumilio (foreground) and Juncus ingens at Little Rushy Swamp, representing the few extant perennial species that are not heavily grazed (08/04/2016).

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Rabbit numbers were found to be locally high in areas adjoining the high (non-flood prone) sandy soils of Duck Lagoon which adjoins the sandridge of the Cadell Tilt. The highest quadrats at this site had abundant rabbit droppings and scratchings, with some individual rabbits observed when approaching the site to undertake the vegetation monitoring.

Feral pig damage was also frequently observed at a number of wetlands in both Barmah and Millewa forests (including Top Island Burnt Site, Little Rushy Swamp, Steamer Plain, Wathours Lagoon and Black Gate Lagoon), with some substantial ploughing (particularly at Little Rushy Swamp where extensive damage to the wetland floor occurred during flood recession) or direct damage to vegetation (e.g. Plate 15) was evident. Scats from deer were observed at Top Lake and various other sites throughout the forest, which is a known growing threat with at least two deer species present in the forest, in addition to a small population of goats also found in Barmah Forest (K.Ward pers. comm.).

Plate 15: Pig and horse damage within senescing Juncus ingens beds at Boals Deadwoods Q2.1 (12/06/2016)

No strong herbivory impact was observed from invertebrates this year (unlike some locations when the drought first broke in 2010; Ward 2010d).

Unfortunately, the understorey vegetation of Barmah-Millewa Forest does not just have to contend with feral animal impacts, but also of nuisance people. Plate 16 and Plate 17 show recent deliberate damage by illegal off-road driving at Reed Beds Swamp and Top Lake where disturbance to the vegetation may permit exotic species to colonise where they are currently

Page 65 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report uncommon. Furthermore, Bardi Grub diggers (for fishing bait) have been illegally digging high ground at Wathours Lagoon prior to the summer monitoring period, with some parts of the quadrats (particularly Q2.3) now exhibiting substantial soil disturbance that will likely add to the exotic weed loading already present.

Plate 16: Evidence of vehicle through Phragmites australis in Reed Beds Swamp Q 2.0 (11/06/2016).

Plate 17: Evidence of vehicle damage to Moira Grass plain at Top Lake (13/06/2016).

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5. CONCLUSIONS:

5.1 General:

A very strong demarcation existed on the Barmah-Millewa floodplain in spring and early summer between actively-growing understorey vegetation alongside withered or senesced vegetation. This transition was related directly to the extent of surface flooding caused by the winter/spring river fresh and environmental water event. Areas of the floodplain located above the influence of flooding were found to be very dry, having cracked soils and carpeted with eucalypt leaf litter with an otherwise sparse-distribution of mostly senesced plants. This strongly contrasted to the thick bright-green understorey vegetation that was vying for space where shallow flooding had been occurring. The flood-influenced regions of the floodplain were therefore more representative of results found in previous wet years where a strong seasonal flood regime had been occurring, whilst the higher dry locations had results comparable to the drought years of monitoring.

Only with the recent winter rains has the sharp boundary blurred, with the broader floodplain transformed with a bright green carpet of sprouting seasonal understorey plants. Species that are frost tolerant or sheltered from larger plant species or other structure are now dominating the bulk of the ground, with grazing pressure appearing to be more diffuse given the wetlands are now no longer the only sites in the forest where grazing animals can find green shoots.

Most plants species found in the flooded zones were native, whereas the non-flooded zones supported a large proportion of exotic species. This finding therefore continues to support previous years of observation (Stokes et al. 2010).

Sites where flooding had occurred in winter/spring promoted growth and flowering of a diversity of wetland vegetation species that would not have occurred to the same extent in the absence of flooding. Although higher drier sites exhibited mostly senesced plant diversity for most of the year, a higher abundance and diversity of species compared to the Millennium Drought years may indicate a residual benefit of the more recent series of years of widespread flooding. This may have elevated resilience in many of the senesced understorey plants, such as refreshing seedbanks and/or underground storage organs (such as rhizomes or corms).

Juncus ingens was found to have variable growth response this year. The reason for some J. ingens continues to increase at some sites but decrease at others is not accurately known, although it may be related to stem age, moisture availability and shading from intra-and inter- specific competition. Prolonged (but not permanent) shallow flooding is required at sites where J. ingens is desired to exist in thick stands, such as at ibis and spoonbill nesting sites. Conversely, J. ingens may be discouraged by ensuring that the site dries over summer- autumn. Consideration ought to also be given to avoiding uniformity of the age-structure of the stands, as mass senesce of aged stems may lead to widespread shading and reduction of J. ingens, but possibly also reducing growth of other understorey species if the stand was previous dominant at the site (given that the resultant stand collapse will create heavy shade at that location).

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Strong growth of Phragmites australis (Common Reed) appears to suppress the growth and spread of Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) given the finding that large stands of P. australis towered over, and appeared to shade out, J. ingens at sites where the two species coexist. However, the control of J. ingens by encouraging P. australis through increase flood depth is unlikely to be a useful management tool given that pure stands of P. australis similarly suppress nearly all other wetland species, and hence is an undesirable outcome if extensive beds of this species form across the otherwise open wetlands.

Pseudoraphis spinescens (Moira Grass) continues to have a patchy distribution and in low cover abundance at nearly all monitored study site wetlands, in which water depth and general flood return frequency alone does not appear to account for major quadrat differences in presence or abundance of the species (given similar flood regimes at comparable sites may or may not have the species). It is possible that the sampling method is not adequate to fully capture this variability and/or the species is sensitive to other environmental variables particular to each site (such as slight ponding differences or inter- specific competition with other species). A new CSIRO project (Moira Grass Environmental Water Decision Framework) is now intending to investigate this further, and likely to involve additional monitoring, experimentation and more detailed analysis.

Furthermore, P. spinescens was found to once again be heavily grazed by a range of herbivores, particularly kangaroos and, in Barmah Forest, also from feral horses. Construction of a grazing-exclusion fence at Little Rushy Swamp by the Victorian government, following recommendation from this project, is expected to provide some protection to the Floodplain Grassy Wetland EVC and provide a useful indication of the level of impact that grazing is having on this wetland grass species.

Contraction of the Moira Grass plains, as originally warned by Chesterfield (1986) and modelled by Bren (1992) from invasion by Eucalytus camaldulensis (River Red Gum), remains of concern, but the contraction in P. spinescens as a species has occurred because of its poor growth response to unfavourable flood regimes rather than having been taken over by the competing E. camaldulensis (or J. ingens for that matter). This had been reinforced with recent remapping by Vivian et al. (2015) that showed the occurrence of P. spinescens on remaining treeless plains is patchy, and hence treelessness alone does not indicate presence of P. spinescens but P. spinescens occurs best where treelessness exists. In response, the Victorian and NSW governments have in recent years implemented control programs within Barmah-Millewa Forest to remove new E. camaldulensis germinants from the otherwise treeless plains. Although this is recognised as not being the sole factor required to regain former P. spinescens or associated Floodplain Grassy Wetland vegetation type abundance, the activity will reduce the rate of E. camaldulensis establishment on the open plains and thereby reduce one known threat while also working towards improving appropriate flood regimes and reducing grazing pressure.

The finding of Ludwigia palustris* (Marsh Ludwigia), representing the first record of this exotic aquatic weed in Barmah-Millewa Forest by this project, needs to be further investigated to determine the level of threat that this species may pose to the wetland environment with commensurate control activities to be undertaken.

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No new sightings were made of Lilaea scilloides (Flowering Quillwort), an exotic wetland plant listed as a “very high risk weed” that was first opportunistically observed by this project in Barmah Forest two years ago which resulted in the management agency undertaking immediate control activities to prevent further spread of this new weed species. However, the sites where it was previously present had remained dry for most of the year, and hence repeat inspection will be required following sustained wet weather.

Of other concern is the anecdotal observations of the exotic wetland plant Sagittaria platyphylla (Arrowhead) expanding in extent in many waterways within Barmah-Millewa Forest. Although some effective control measures have been undertaken by state agencies in at some locations over recent years, further urgent control activities are required in attempt to reduce the spread of this highly invasive wetland species.

Fortunately the suspected finding of a Conium maculatum* (Poison Hemlock) at Little Rushy Swamp in spring 2015 was instead identified as an indigenous Daucus glochidiatus (Native Carrot). C. maculatum* is a declared noxious weed that has not been recorded in the forest but would be a concern had it been present.

5.2 Management Recommendations:

1. Consider a control program of Juncus ingens (Giant Rush) where the species has recently colonised or is recently expanding to dominate at the expense of other wetland vegetation species, such as Steamer Plain, Black Gate Lagoon and Duck Lagoon. J. ingens may be discouraged by ensuring that the site dries over summer- autumn. Biomass reduction may be further enhanced with burning or slashing prior to flood submergence, but only if complete submergence of the remaining rush base can be assured soon after (at least by the following season). Encouraging the creation of mosaics with partial reedbed senesce is likely to provide more favourable opportunities for other understorey species to colonise. 2. However, in sites where strong stands of J. ingens is desired, such as at ibis and spoonbill nesting sites, then prolonged (but not permanent) shallow flooding is to be maintained, particularly over the summer period. 3. Control the spread and growth of Sagittaria platyphylla (Arrowhead) throughout Barmah-Millewa Forest, and from all upstream locations to minimise further re- seeding in Barmah-Millewa Forest. Care must be taken in avoiding non-target species and from misidentifying similar-looking indigenous species such as Alisma plantago- aquatica, Damasonium minus and native Rumex species. 4. Undertake repeat inspection for Lilaea scilloides (Flowering Quillwort) at sites following sustained wet weather where previously observed by this project (management vehicle track on Top Island and Gowers Track south of Smiths Creek), and undertake further eradication measures as appropriate. 5. Undertake further inspection for Ludwigia palustris (Marsh Ludwigia) at Black Gate Lagoon for potential immediate control of this new invasive weed species, following discovery of a single specimen by this project in autumn 2016.

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6. Undertake other pest plant control activities, especially on higher elevated regions of the forest where terrestrial exotic species are most common, whilst minimising impacts on indigenous flora species. 7. Control introduced herbivores (such as pigs, rabbits, deer, goats and horses). Herbivorous animals appear to have increased in number post-2010 breaking of the Millennium Drought having resulted in an apparent improved grazing opportunities for such animals, with species such as rabbits already observed at some locations in Millewa Forest and feral horses in western Barmah Forest increasing in number. A reduction in total grazing pressure (Bacon et al. 1992) is expected to enhance the robustness and reproductive potential of the understorey vegetation. This could also include temporary fencing of small remaining patches of Pseudoraphis spinescens (Moira Grass) to protect the species upon flood drawdown until early winter, at which time the species becomes largely unpalatable to grazing animals as it is thought to become bitter following frosts. 8. Undertake remedial works on the constructed sills on Steamer Plain to re-prevent flows in Budgee Creek from overflowing onto the wetland when the Murray River is flowing below 10,400 ML/d downstream of Yarrawonga, as per observation and recommendation reported previously (Ward 2009b). 9. Increase attempts to prevent off-road vehicular access, especially onto open wetland environments. Vehicle damage to wetland environments has been frequently observed. The impacts of off-road traffic on wetlands can be obvious for many years after the initial impact, even during and after flooding, and hence an increase in enforcement is required and barriers considered for some locations where terrain would permit minor works to be effective (e.g., Little Rushy Swamp, Steamer Plain, Top Lake). 10. Continue seasonal monitoring into 2016-17 to document plant response following the recent breakdown of El Nino and expectation of wetter conditions with La Nina that is now forming, plus expected releases of environmental water into Barmah-Millewa Forest. 11. Encourage additional further research into seed-bank viability of P. spinescens (given existing concern over sparse cover throughout former range in Barmah-Millewa Forest), as well as further stress work on J. ingens and E. camaldulensis tolerances for potential control activities in wetlands where the species encroachment is undesirable. 12. Encourage CSIRO recently commenced investigation into P. spinescens autecology, particularly in relation to provision of information, establishment of field experiments, undertaking of further monitoring and undertaking any management recommendations arising from the project. 13. Encourage further monitoring into the impacts of grazing on wetland species, especially with current construction of a grazing exclosure fence at Little Rushy Swamp in Barmah Forest. Separate internal fencing to experimentally test the effect of kangaroo grazing is likely to also be required, as will small exclosures in other wetlands.

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14. Given recent strong floodplain drying, then promoting a return to winter-spring flooding over a broad region of the floodplain is now required for the benefit of most native floodplain understorey species

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6. Achievements against original stated project objectives:

Each of the originally stated project objectives were successfully completed (Table 20). On- going use of the data, and planned refinements to analysis, will further enhance these achievements.

Table 20: Achievements against original stated project objectives

Objective Achievement

a) Provide a suitable wetland understorey Achieved. All 72 quadrats in 11 sentinel monitoring program within Barmah- wetland study sites were successfully re- Millewa Forest that will enact a monitored during all four seasons of the monitoring recommendation by TLM 2005 2015-16 financial year (despite difficult and McCarthy et al. 2006); access to some wetlands within the year).

b) Appraise understorey vegetation Completed. Full data and basic response to flooding (and other variables, interpretation documented in detailed such as reduced grazing pressure) by progress reports completed at the end of measuring species diversity, cover and each season’s monitoring, and flowering ability within existing sentinel summarised for trend interpretation in transect sites in both Barmah and Millewa this final report. Detailed statistical Forests; analysis is being undertaken through a linked project with Deaking University and the University of Canberra in association with ACEAS. Papers completed to date from this data include Stokes et al. (2010a&b), and Colloff et al. (2015), with others planned. Information and photos from this project have been used in a number of presentations and provided to MDBA, OEH, DELWP, PV and Yorta Yorta for use in documents, media releases and interpretation signage.

c) Compliment broader monitoring Completed. Results from this project are programs (e.g., Eucalyptus camaldulensis available to be fed into other monitoring inventories, hydrographic recorder projects. Timely information was also fed correlations, waterbird monitoring and into the BM Operations Advisory hydrodynamic modelling) by providing Committee teleconferences via GB CMA & data on understorey vegetation and other OEH during active considerations on EWA monitored attributes such as site water management. depths;

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d) Provide enhanced quantitative evidence Completed. Both quantitative (data) and of species variation on Moira Grass Plains qualitative (photographic) evidence has (especially change since first monitored been collected as reported here, with 25 years ago); further analysis planned to be published. The monitoring during 2015-16 documented continuing low growth response, including one former stronghold exhibiting a recent decrease in cover abundance. e) Provide quantitative and qualitative Completed. Project results and information to support recommendations recommendations have been provided to for water management activities; the various land managing agencies throughout the year in the form of detailed progress reports for their consideration in water management planning activities within two weeks following the calendar month of the fieldwork having been completed (Ward 2015, 2016a,b&c), and summarised in this document. Urgent issues were verbally discussed with the relevant agency as soon as possible, and included opportunistic fauna observations and records of new and emerging weeds.

Monitoring results and recommendations have also lead to highlighting the need for Red Gum removal from open plains, Giant Rush control, fencing of a Moira Grass plain and requirement for additional research, all of which had various state agency attempts to enact. f) To monitor post-fire recovery of a Completed. Both sites affected by typical wetland system by continued bushfire were re-monitored this monitoring of transects recently financial year, plus one other study site established at two burnt sites; that partially experienced a control burn, with results interpreted in this report. An interesting story of differing responses from burn timing and flood depth continues to emerge. g) Permit accurate reporting of Completed. A summary of the 2015-16 understorey wetland health (and of monitoring year will now been other monitored variables) in the incorporated into the Barmah-Millewa

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Barmah-Millewa Forest Water Forest Water Management Annual Management Annual Report. Report (GB CMA in prep.). Timely submission of detailed progress reports also provided agencies with the ability to on-report throughout the year.

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7. Achievements against original stated project outcomes:

Each of the originally stated expected project outcomes were all successfully achieved (Table 21). On-going use of the data, and planned refinements to analysis, will further enhance these achievements.

Table 21: Achievements against original stated project outcomes

Outcome Achievement

a) On-going monitoring of understorey Achieved. All 11 sentinel study sites were vegetation at existing Barmah- successfully re-monitored during all four Millewa wetland study sites seasons of the 2011-12 financial year (despite very difficult access to many wetlands throughout the year). Transects that were extended at Wathours Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp in 2010-11 were also successfully re- monitored.

b) Ability to more adequately monitor Achieved. Both sites affected by bushfire post-fire recovery of a typical were re-monitored this financial year, plus Barmah-Millewa wetland using the one other study site that partially recent establishment of transects in experienced a control burn, with results two burnt sites. interpreted in this report. An interesting story of differing responses from burn timing and flood depth continues to emerge.

c) Potentially the identification of Achieved. One nationally ‘Vulnerable’ species significant sites for rare or vulnerable and two ‘Poorly Known’ species that is wetland plant species. suspected of meeting the criteria of an endangered species was found at the sentinel study sites in 2015-16. Their presence will be formally reported to state agency databases (as per permit requirements).

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d) Improved inclusion of wetland Achieved. Management recommendations vegetation requirements into water were provided to the various land managing management considerations. agencies throughout the year in detailed progress reports that were provided within two weeks following the calendar month that the fieldwork was completed (Ward 2015, 2016a,b,c), and as now further expanded in this document. Urgent issues were verbally discussed with the relevant agency as soon as possible following the identification of a particular issue (including observations of new aquatic weeds). e) Potentially improved conditions and Partially achieved. Various management flowering rates in wetland vegetation recommendations commenced as a result of refined water implementation, including fencing of Little management being targeted to Rushy Swamp and removing Red Gum trees desired outcomes. from open plains by a Victorian management agency. f) Provision of quantitative evidence of Achieved. Data on species composition and altered vegetation community cover, supported by photo-points, has shown composition and structure on the continued alterations in some dominant Moira Grass Plains over the last 25 wetland vegetation species. The information years. is now serving a dual role of being a recorded history as well as providing predictive ability on future response to water management given the increasing strength of the dataset. ACEAS recognised the value of this dataset as one of the few long-term repeat-measure datasets on wetland vegetation in Australia. g) Ability to use additional data Achieved and continuing to be achieved. Data collected by this project by other now available for use by other projects, with monitoring programs or reports, such new dataset already having been used by as basic water quality and depth CSIRO for use in their Water for a Healthy parameters, habitat structure, Country project (and adds to previously photographs, and incidental provided data which has been used in three observations of flora and fauna (as scientific papers, two proceedings, and others was undertaken in 2006-07 and 2009- are planned). The dataset is also to be used by 10 to refute contradictory statements ACEAS in a project investigating long-term made in the media). environmental datasets, and more recently by Deakin University and the University of Canberra in a linked project. Support also provided to agency monitoring of Juncus ingens establishment on Barmah Lake, with very interesting water management results

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already obtained. Photographs collected as part of this project have been used by a number of agencies, NGOs and individuals to illustrate a broad range of documents. h) Ability to report on wetland Achieved. Results and photographs have vegetation response to water already been used to support GB CMA to raise management (and some concern to the Victorian minister on pending complimentary land management loss of ecological character, and also various activities such as reduced-grazing reports including pending incorporation into pressure) within the Icon Site’s the 2015-16 Barmah-Millewa Annual Synthesis Annual Report. Report (GB CMA in prep.).

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8. REFERENCES:

8.1 Personal Communications:

8.1 Personal Communications:

Ward, Mr Keith (2016) Environmental Water Reserve Officer, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, Shepparton, Victoria.

8.2 Reports:

Alexander P. Nielsen, DL & Nias, D. (2008) Response of wetland plant communities to inundation within floodplain landscapes. Ecological Management and Restoration 9: 187-195.

ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality. Australian and New Zealand Environmental Conservation Council and Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia.

Bacon, P., Ward, K., Craven, P., Harper, M. and Bone, B. (1992) Floodplain land use issues in the Murray-Darling Basin. In: Murray-Darling Basin Floodplain Wetlands Management. Proceedings of the Floodplain Wetlands Management Workshop, 20-22 October 1992, Albury, NSW. Pp: 42-52. Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra.

BoM (2016a) Daily weather observations for Victoria: Echuca aerodrome. Bureau of Meteorology, Australia. URL address: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/IDCJDW0303.shtml. Accessed 02/07/2016.

BoM (2016b) Climate averages for Australian locations: summary statistics Echuca aerodrome. Bureau of Meteorology, Australia. URL address: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_080015.shtml. Accessed 06/02/2016.

Bren L.J. (1992) Tree invasion of an intermittent wetland in relation to changes in the flooding frequency of the River Murray, Australia. Aust J Ecol 17:395–408.

Casanova M.T. (2011) Using water plant functional groups to investigate environmental water requirements. Freshwater Biology 56: 2637–2652. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2427.201.

Catford, J.A. & Downes, B.J. (2010) Using multi-scale species distribution data to infer drivers of biological invasion in riparian wetlands. Diversity and Distributions 16:20-32.

Catford, J.A., Downes, B.J., Gipple, C.J. & Vesk, P.A. (2011) Flow regulation reduces native plant cover and facilitates exotic invasion in riparian wetlands. J. App. Ecol. 48(2):432- 442.

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CEM (2003) Barmah State Park vegetation condition assessment. Report prepared for Parks Victoria on survey August 2001 by Centre for Environmental Management, University of Ballarat, Victoria.

Chesterfield, E.A. (1986) Changes in the vegetation of the river red gum forest at Barmah, Victoria. Australian Forestry 49(1): 4-15.

Colloff, M.J., Ward, K.A. and Roberts, J. (2014). Ecology and conservation of grassy wetlands dominated by spiny mud grass Pseudoraphis spinescens in the southern Murray– Darling Basin, Australia. Aquatic Conserv: Mar. Freshw. Ecosyst. 24: 238–255.

Cunningham, S.C., Mac Nally, R., White, M., Read, J., Baker, P.J., Thomson, J. & Griffioen, P. (2006) Mapping the current condition of River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh.) stands along the Victorian Murray River floodplain. A report to the northern Victorian Catchment Management Authorities and the Department of Sustainability & Environment. Australian Centre for Biodiversity, Monash University, Victoria. (60pp).

Cunningham, S.C., Read, J., Baker, P.J., Mac Nally, R. (2007) Quantitative assessment of stand condition and its relationship to physiological stress in stands of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Myrtaceae). Australian Journal of Botany 55: 692–699.

Cunningham, S.C., Mac Nally, R., Read, J., Baker, P.J., White, M., Thomson, J.R., & Griffioen, P. (2009a) A Robust Technique for Mapping Vegetation Condition Across a Major River System. Ecosystems 12: 207–219.

Cunningham, S., Mac Nally, R., Griffioen, P. & White, M. (2009b) Mapping the Condition of River Red Gum and Black Box Stands in The Living Murray Icon Sites. A Milestone Report to the Murray-Darling Basin Authority as part of Contract MD1114., Canberra: Murray-Darling Basin Authority.

Cunninhgam, S., Griffioen, P., White, M. & Mac Nally, R. (2011) Mapping the Condition of River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh.) and Black Box (Eucalyptus largiflorens F.Muell.) Stands in The Living Murray Icon Sites. Stand Condition Report 2010. Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

DCE (1992) Barmah Management Plan - Barmah State Park & Barmah State Forest. Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria. ISBN 0 7306 2248 7.

DSE (2003) Barmah Forest Ramsar Site: Strategic Management Plan. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne.

DSE (2008) Barmah Forest Ramsar Site ecological character description. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. ISBN 978-1-7208-770-2. 37pp.

EPA (2003) Water Quality Objectives for Rivers and Streams – Ecosystem Protection. Scientific Support and Freshwater Sciences, Environmental Protection Agency, Victoria.

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Frood, D. (2006) Barmah vegetation map: report. Pathways Bushland & Environment, Greensborough, Victoria. (52 pp).

Maxwell, R. (2006) Scoping survey of the Barmah and Millewa Forests to identify the extant of invasion of Arrowhead (surveys conducted June-July 2006). Department of Primary Industries, Tatura, Victoria. (11 pp).

Maxwell, R. (2008) Scoping Survey of the Barmah and Millewa Forests to identify the extent of invasion of Arrowhead (February-April 2008). Department of Primary Industries, Tatura, Victoria. (22 pp).

Maxwell, R. (2009) Mapping of historic vegetation of the Barmah-Millewa Forest. Department of Primary Industries, Tatura, Victoria.

McCarthy, B., Nielsen, D., Baldwin, D., Meredith, S., Roberts, J., King, A., Reid, J. and Ward, K. (2006). Barmah Wetland System Environmental Monitoring Program. Part B: Monitoring Program. Report to the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority. Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre.

MDBA (2012a) Barmah-Millewa Forest Environmental Water Management Plan. MDBA Publication No. 219/11. Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

MDBC (2005b) The Barmah-Millewa Forest Icon Site Environmental Management Plan: 2006- 2007. MDBC Publication No. 30/06. Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra.

MDBA (2009) The Living Murray Annual Implementation Report and Audit of the Living Murray Implementation Report. MDBA Publication No. 55/10. Murray Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

MDBA (2015b) River Murray weekly report for the week ending Wednesday 05 August 2015. Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. URL address: http://www.mdba.gov.au/sites/default/files/weeklyreports/River-Murray-Operations- Weekly-Report-5th-August-2015.pdf. Accessed 19/11/2015.

MDBA (2015c) River Murray weekly report for the week ending Wednesday 09 September 2015. Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. URL address: http://www.mdba.gov.au/sites/default/files/weeklyreports/river-murray-operations- weekly-report-9th-september-2015.pdf. Accessed 19/11/2015.

MDBA (2016b) River Murray weekly report for the week ending Wednesday 13 January 2016. Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. URL address: http://www.mdba.gov.au/sites/default/files/weeklyreports/River-Murray-Operations- Weekly-Report-13-Jan-2016_0.pdf. Accessed 19/01/2016.

MDBA (2016f) River Data: Murray River flow downstream of Yarrawonga Weir. Murray- Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. URL address:

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http://riverdata.mdba.gov.au/sitereports/409025/mdba_409025_site_report.html. Accessed 02/07/2016.

NSW DPI (2016) Algal information: Murray River algal bloom. Situation as at 17 June 2016. New South Wales Department of Primary Industries. URL address: http://www.water.nsw.gov.au/water-management/water-quality/algal-information. Accessed 19 June 2016.

Roberts, J. & Marston, F. (2011). Water regime for wetland and floodplain plants: a source book for the Murray–Darling Basin. National Water Commission, Canberra. ISBN 978- 1-921853-03-6.

Stokes, K., Ward, K., Ward, P. & Colloff, M (2010a) Modelling invasive plants in relation to flooding and drying: implications for ecosystem functions. In: Ecosystem Response Modelling in the Murray-Darling Basin (Ed: N. Saintilan and I. Overton), Chapter 19, pp 333-344. CSIRO Publishing, Canberra.

Stokes, K., Ward, K., & Colloff, M (2010b) Alterations in flood frequency increase exotic and native species richness of understorey vegetation in a temperate floodplain eucalypt forest. Plant Ecology 211:219-233.

Vivian, L.M., Ward, K.A., Marshall, D.J. & Godfree, R.C. (2015). Pseudoraphis spinescens (Poaceae) grasslands at Barmah Forest, Victoria, Australia: current distribution and implications for floodplain conservation. Australian Journal of Botany 63: 526–540. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/BT15090.

Ward, K.A. (1991) Investigation into the flood requirements of the Moira Grass Plains in Barmah Forest. Department of Conservation & Environment, Shepparton, Victoria.

Ward, K.A. (1994) Flood requirements of wetland flora in Barmah Forest. Draft report. Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, Shepparton, Victoria.

Ward, P.A. (2006) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest, 2006/07 – Spring 2006 monitoring report. Progress report prepared for the Murray- Darling Basin Commission, Canberra, as part of Project MD815

Ward, P.A. (2007a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest, 2006/07 – Summer 2006/07 monitoring report. Progress report prepared for the Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra, as part of Project MD815.

Ward, P.A. (2007b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest 2006/07 – Autumn 2007 monitoring report. Progress report prepared for the Murray- Darling Basin Commission, Canberra, as part of Project MD815.

Ward, P.A. (2007c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest 2006/07 – Winter 2007 monitoring report. Progress report prepared for the Murray- Darling Basin Commission, Canberra, as part of Project MD815.

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Ward, P.A. (2007d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest: 2006/07 – Final report. Report prepared for the Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra, as part of Project MD815.

Ward, P.A. (2008a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2007/08 – Final Report. Report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2008b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2008/09: Progress report - Spring 2008. Report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2009a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2008/09: Progress report - Summer 2008/09. Report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2009b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2008/09: Progress report - Autumn 2009. Report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2009c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2008/09: Progress report - Winter 2009. Report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2009d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2008/09 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Department of Sustainability & Environment, Bendigo, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2010a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2009/10: Progress report - Summer 2009/10. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Forestry New South Wales, Deniliquin, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Page 85 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

Ward, P.A. (2010b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2009/10: Progress report - Autumn 2010. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by Forestry New South Wales, Deniliquin, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2010c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2009/10: Progress report - Winter 2010. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by Forestry New South Wales, Deniliquin, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra

Ward, P.A. (2010d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2009/10 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by Forests New South Wales, Deniliquin, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2010e) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2010/11: Progress report – Spring 2010. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2011a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2010/11: Progress report – Summer 2010/11. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2011b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2010/11: Progress report – Autumn 2011. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2011c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2010/11: Progress report – Winter 2011. Consultant report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2011d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2010/11 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 332pp.

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Ward, P.A. (2011e) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2011/12: Progress report - Spring 2011. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2012a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2011/12: Progress report - Summer 2011/12. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2012b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2011/12: Progress report – Autumn 2012. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2012c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2011/12: Progress report – Winter 2012. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2012d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2011/12 – Final Report. Consultant progress report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 372pp

Ward, P.A. (2013a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest: 2012-13 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Griffith, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2014a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest, 2013-14: Progress report - Summer 2013-14. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the Victorian Department of Environment & Primary Industries, Melbourne, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2014b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest, 2013-14: Progress report – Autumn 2014. Consultant progress report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the Victorian Department of Environment & Primary Industries, Melbourne, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

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Ward, P.A. (2014c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest, 2013-14: Progress report – Winter 2014. Consultant progress report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the Victorian Department of Environment & Primary Industries, Melbourne, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 132pp.

Ward, P.A. (2014d) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah Forest: 2013-14 – Final Report. Consultant report prepared as part of The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries & Environment, Melbourne, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2014e) Millewa Forest wetland understorey vegetation photo-points: 2007-2014. Consultant report prepared for the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage (Department of Premier & Cabinet) as a continuing component of the former The Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra.

Ward, P.A. (2015) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest, 2015-16: Progress report - Spring 2015. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, Moama, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 280pp.

Ward, P.A. (2016a) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2015-16: Progress report - Summer 2015-16. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, Moama, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 284pp.

Ward, P.A. (2016b) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest, 2015-16: Progress report - Autumn 2016. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah-Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, Moama, on behalf of the Murray- Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 280pp.

Ward, P.A. (2016c) Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah- Millewa Forest, 2015-16: Progress report – Winter 2016. Consultant progress report prepared as part of the Living Murray Condition Monitoring Program for the Barmah- Millewa Icon Site, managed by the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage, Moama, on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra. 282pp.

Wehner, B., O’Connor, P., and Weber, R. (2009) Barmah Forest understorey vegetation Condition Assessment report. Assessment conducted 5 & 7 May 2009. Parks Victoria, Shepparton, and Department of Sustainability & Environment, Tatura. (17pp).

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Appendix 1: Barmah-Millewa Forest vegetation quadrat locations Coordinates given for photo-point corner of each quadrat (recorded June 2011 using handheld Garmen GPS, therefore accuracy is ~ 30m). Visual depiction of approximate location of study sites follows this table.

Study Site Quadrat GDA Lat/Long Photo-point orientation

1 Boals Deadwoods 1.1 0322045 6030193 S 35o51'22.8" E 145o01'45.2" NE to SW 1.2 0322015 6030251 S 35o51'20.9" E 145o01'44.0" NE to SW 1.3 0321987 6030331 S 35o51'18.3" E 145o01'43.0" NE to SW 2.1 0321877 6030165 S 35o51'23.6" E 145o01'38.5" NW to SE 2.2 0321832 6030233 S 35o51'21.4" E 145o01'36.7" NW to SE 2.3 0321797 6030285 S 35o51'19.7" E 145o01'35.3" NW to SE

2 Top Island 1.1 0318470 6027540 S 35o52'46.5" E 144o59'20.6" SE to NW (Burnt Site) 1.2 0318523 6027545 S 35o52'46.4" E 144o59'22.6" SE to NW 1.3 0318594 6027542 S 35o52'46.5" E 144o59'25.4" SE to NW 2.1 0318459 6027612 S 35o52'44.2" E 144o59'20.1" SE to NW 2.2 0318508 6027607 S 35o52'44.4" E 144o59'22.2" SE to NW 2.3 0318567 6027620 S 35o52'44.0" E 144o59'24.5" SE to NW

3 Top Island 1.1 0318822 6026342 S 35o53'25.6" E 144o59'33.6" SE to NW (Original Site) 1.2 0318889 6026333 S 35o53'25.9" E 144o59'36.2" SE to NW 1.3 0318937 6026343 S 35o53'25.6" E 144o59'38.1" SE to NW 2.1 0318838 6026447 S 35o53'22.2" E 144o59'34.3" SE to NW 2.2 0318875 6026464 S 35o53'21.7" E 144o59'35.8" SE to NW 2.3 0318923 6026472 S 35o53'21.4" E 144o59'37.7" SE to NW

4 Little Rushy Swamp 1.1 0323117 6026467 S 35o53'24.4" E 145o02'24.9" NE to SW 1.2 0323104 6026515 S 35o53'24.8" E 145o02'24.5" NE to SW 1.3 0323091 6026571 S 35o53'21.0" E 145o02'23.9" NE to SW 2.1 0323071 6026438 S 35o53'25.3" E 145o02'23.0" SW to NE 2.2 0323075 6026400 S 35o53'26.5" E 145o02'23.2" SW to NE 2.3 0323081 6026346 S 35o53'28.3" E 145o02'23.4" SW to NE

5 Top Lake 1.1 0323626 6024028 S 35o54'43.8" E 145o02'43.3" SE to NW 1.2 0323617 6024013 S 35o54'44.3" E 145o02'42.9" SE to NW 1.3 0323555 6024022 S 35o54'44.0" E 145o02'40.5" SE to NW 2.1 0323653 6024084 S 35o54'42.0" E 145o02'44.4" SE to NW 2.2 0323613 6024089 S 35o54'41.8" E 145o02'42.8" SE to NW 2.3 0323562 6024075 S 35o54'42.2" E 145o02'40.7" SE to NW

6 Steamer Plain 1.1 0318817 6021234 S 35o56'11.3" E 144o59'29.2" SE to NW 1.2 0318930 6021212 S 35o56'12.1" E 144o59'33.7" SE to NW 1.3 0319102 6021111 S 35o56'15.5" E 144o59'40.4" SE to NW 1.4 0319215 6021057 S 35o56'17.3" E 144o59'44.9" SE to NW 2.1 0318858 6021706 S 35o55'56.0" E 144o59'31.2" NE to SW 2.2 0318894 6021706 S 35o55'56.0" E 144o59'32.6" NE to SW 2.3 0313956 6021693 S 35o55'56.5" E 144o59'35.1" NE to SW 2.4 0319002 6021670 S 35o55'57.3" E 144o59'36.9" NE to SW

continued….

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Study Site Quadrat GDA Lat/Long Photo-point orientation

7 Wathours Swamp 1.0 0320268 6031677 S 35o50'33.5" E 145o00'35.6" NE to SW 1.1 0320310 6031709 S 35o50'32.5" E 145o00'37.3" NE to SW 1.2 0320339 6031738 S 35o50'31.6" E 145o00'38.5" NE to SW 1.3 0320390 6031772 S 35o50'30.5" E 145o00'40.5" NE to SW 2.0 0320227 6031716 S 35o50'32.2" E 145o00'34.0" NW to SE 2.1 0320261 6031752 S 35o50'31.0" E 145o00'35.4" NE to SW 2.2 0320300 6031783 S 35o50'30.1" E 145o00'36.9" NE to SW 2.3 0320355 6031827 S 35o50'28.7" E 145o00'39.2" NE to SW

8 Reed Beds Swamp 1.0 0315764 6032336 S 35o50'09.1" E 144o57'36.7" NE to SW 1.1 0315772 6032382 S 35o50'07.6" E 144o57'37.1" NE to SW 1.2 0315777 6032448 S 35o50'05.5" E 144o57'37.3" NE to SW 1.3 0315787 6032489 S 35o50'04.2" E 144o57'37.7" NE to SW 2.0 0315653 6032362 S 35o50'08.2" E 144o57'32.3" NE to SW 2.1 0315652 6032407 S 35o50'06.7" E 144o57'32.3" NE to SW 2.2 0315670 6032464 S 35o50'04.9" E 144o57'33.1" NE to SW 2.3 0315670 6032519 S 35o50'03.1" E 144o57'33.1" NE to SW

9 Black Gate Lagoon 1.1 0311072 6036735 S 35o47'43.2" E 144o54'33.5" NE to SW 1.2 0311122 6036802 S 35o47'41.1" E 144o54'35.6" NE to SW 1.3 0311077 6036783 S 35o47'41.7" E 144o54'33.8" NE to SW 2.1 0311024 6036739 S 35o47'43.0" E 144o54'31.6" NE to SW 2.2 0311123 6036757 S 35o47'42.5" E 144o54'35.6" NE to SW 2.3 0311019 6036789 S 35o47'41.4" E 144o54'31.5" NE to SW

10 Duck Swamp 1.1 0312089 6031230 S 35o50'42.5" E 144o55'09.4" NW to SE 1.2 0311973 6031240 S 35o50'42.1" E 144o55'04.7" NW to SE 1.3 0311866 6031262 S 35o50'41.3" E 144o55'00.5" NW to SE 2.1 0312081 6031113 S 35o50'46.3" E 144o55'08.9" NW to SE 2.2 0311962 6031132 S 35o50'45.5" E 144o55'04.2" NW to SE 2.3 0311854 6031135 S 35o50'45.4" E 144o54'59.9" NW to SE

11 Algaboia Plain 1.1 0313992 6018110 S 35o57'49.4" E 144o56'14.1" SE to NW 1.2 0314125 6018223 S 35o57'45.8" E 144o56'19.6" SE to NW 1.3 0314233 6018275 S 35o57'44.2" E 144o56'23.8" SE to NW 2.1 0313945 6018159 S 35o57'47.7" E 144o56'12.3" SE to NW 2.2 0314089 6018258 S 35o57'44.6" E 144o56'18.1" SE to NW 2.3 0314165 6018336 S 35o57'42.1" E 144o56'21.2" SE to NW

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Approximate visual location of study site wetlands; refer to the table above for coordinates. Location of quadrats at each individual wetlands also follows.

9

8 7 10

1 2 4 3

5

TRANSECT SITES 1 = Boals Deadwoods 2 = Top Island (Burnt Site) 6 3 = Top Island (Original Site) 4 = Little Rushy Swamp 5 = Top Lake 11 6 = Steamer Plain 7 = Wathours Lagoon 8 = Reed Beds Swamp 9 = Black Gate Lagoon 10 = Duck Swamp 11 = Algaboia Plain

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Site 1 - Boals Deadwoods quadrat locations

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Site 2 - Top Island (Burnt Site) quadrat locations

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Site 3 - Top Island (Original Site) quadrat locations

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Site 4 - Little Rushy Swamp quadrat locations

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Site 5 - Top Lake quadrat locations

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Site 6 - Steamer Plain quadrat locations

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Site 7 – Wathours Lagoon quadrat locations

2.3

2.2

1.3

2.1

1.2 2.0

1.1

1.0

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Site 8 – Reed Beds Swamp quadrat locations

2.3

2.2 1.3

2.1 1.2

2.0 1.1

1.0

1.1

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Site 9 – Black Gate Lagoon quadrat locations [NB: mid-level quadrats (Q1.2 & 2.2) position were located away from normal linear transect due to very restricted zonation on transect line compared with broader zonation in nearby mid-elevated depression]

1.2 2 .3 1 .3 2 .2

2 .1 1.1

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Site 10 – Duck Lagoon quadrat locations

1 .3 1.2 1.1

2 .3 2 .2 2 .1

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Site 11 – Algaboia Plain quadrat locations

2.3

2 .2 1. 3

1.2 2.1

1.1

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Appendix 2: 2015-16 quadrat data (Average mid-point cover estimates of flora species from each quadrat in each monitored season of 2015-16. Detailed data has been presented in relevant seasonal progress reports - P.Ward 2015d, 2016a, b & c).

Site 1: Boals Deadwoods SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 1 1 S 35o51'22.8" E 145o01'45.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.85633 145.02922 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.8 2.5 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 0.4 0.9 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 20.0 28.6 26.3 34.6 0.8 2.5 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 22.5 16.8 21.5 7.0 46.5 23.3 15.5 10.7 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.5 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 2.9 8.0 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.7 1.2 Y 1.4 2.6 0.7 1.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 2.4 5.3 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Typha orientalis 4.9 8.9 Y 8.8 14.4 4.3 5.4 1.2 2.6 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.9 2.5 1.0 1.4 0.1 0.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 83.0 29.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 324.5 68.3 97.5 76.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 1 2 S 35o51'20.9" E 145o01'44.0" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.4 0.9 -35.85581 145.02889 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 5.3 4.6 0.5 0.9 0.4 0.2 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 14.5 31.8 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Briza minor* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.4 0.9 0.5 0.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.4 0.9 Y 10.2 22.4 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Centella cordifolia 0.3 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa Y 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Ehrharta erecta* Y 0.8 2.5 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 2.9 8.0 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.3 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.6 1.3 0.6 1.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Hydrocotyle laxiflora 1.6 4.9 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens 0.1 0.2 1.6 4.9 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 8.0 10.1 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 1.1 2.6 Y 8.6 27.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 2.0 4.9 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata Y 0.8 2.5 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 17.0 24.5 Y 16.5 11.6 Y 4.3 4.9 Y 1.8 4.8 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 33.7 39.9 0.3 0.9 19.8 23.4 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus Y 38.1 36.9 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 13.4 18.3 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.3 0.9 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Y 1.1 2.6 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus asper* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia Y 6.0 10.6 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Vicia sativa* Y 0.9 2.5 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 79.5 17.1 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 94.5 3.2 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 1.3 2.5 4.0 5.0 2.3 4.8 Open Water 90.5 8.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 78.0 59.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 1 3 S 35o51'18.3" E 145o01'43.0" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 -35.85508 145.02861 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 7.0 12.9 Tdr . * Bromus catharticus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 77.8 25.4 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 13.5 22.4 15.9 25.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 16.0 31.7 Y 9.0 12.4 0.8 1.2 0.2 0.3 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Ehrharta erecta* Y 3.3 5.0 Y 1.9 2.5 1.5 1.3 0.5 0.9 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.4 0.9 0.8 1.2 0.6 1.3 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Euphorbia peplus* Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 24.7 35.8 19.0 19.3 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum Y 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 1.0 1.4 0.6 1.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 2.0 1.3 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 5.3 8.7 Y 16.1 15.5 3.7 6.3 6.0 11.6 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.9 2.5 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper Y 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 1.6 4.9 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus Y 1.5 2.6 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Rubus anglocandicans* 2.6 8.1 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 0.5 0.9 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.6 1.3 Y 3.4 4.9 Y 0.3 0.3 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.7 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus asper* Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.3 0.9 . . . Unknown Poaceae 52.8 24.5 Tdr . * Verbascum virgatum* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Vicia sativa* 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 2.8 5.1 1.3 2.5 1.3 2.5 Open Water 1.6 4.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 2.0 6.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 2 1 S 35o51'23.6" E 145o01'38.5" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.85656 145.02736 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 9.5 14.8 12.2 21.5 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 27.8 18.4 18.4 20.6 26.9 26.7 11.3 9.7 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.2 0.3 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 4.6 14.4 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.9 2.5 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 10.0 15.6 0.1 0.2 9.1 12.5 0.7 1.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.4 0.9 19.5 35.5 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Typha orientalis Y 2.7 5.2 Y 7.5 20.4 2.5 3.2 0.3 0.9 Leaf Litter 89.5 8.4 92.5 6.7 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.2 2.6 1.8 3.3 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 354.5 67.1 114.0 59.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 2 2 S 35o51'21.4" E 145o01'36.7" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.85594 145.02686 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 0.6 1.3 Y 0.6 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Y 1.0 1.4 Y 1.4 2.5 Y 0.4 0.9 15.3 23.8 Tdr . * Avena barbata* 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Bromus catharticus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 2.8 4.7 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 3.0 3.7 Y 1.2 2.6 Y 1.7 3.3 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Centella cordifolia 0.9 1.4 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 22.1 33.8 7.5 14.8 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 1.1 2.6 Y 2.0 3.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Ehrharta erecta* Y 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 7.2 12.8 1.8 2.6 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum Y 0.4 0.9 Y 1.0 1.4 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Hydrocotyle laxiflora 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 2.5 2.4 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.5 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.4 0.9 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 12.8 29.5 Y 12.0 12.2 Y 3.1 5.0 Y 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 28.8 41.8 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 6.2 8.2 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus Y 31.0 42.6 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 4.7 6.6 Tda . * Rubus anglocandicans* 0.1 0.2 1.1 2.6 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.4 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Y 0.8 2.5 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.4 0.9 Y 2.6 3.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.7 1.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera Y 2.7 5.2 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.8 1.2 Tdr . * Verbascum virgatum* 0.3 0.9 Tda k Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii 0.8 2.5 Y 0.4 0.9 1.6 4.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Vicia sativa* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.1 0.2 0.9 1.1 1.5 1.3 0.9 2.5 Open Water 24.7 41.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 16.0 29.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Boals Deadwoods 2 3 S 35o51'19.7" E 145o01'35.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.85547 145.02647 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 2.2 4.8 Y 1.5 2.6 0.2 0.3 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 26.4 31.4 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Bromus catharticus* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 27.7 38.6 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.9 1.4 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.4 0.9 Y 1.4 2.6 Y 3.4 8.2 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 17.1 27.1 0.7 1.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* Y 3.3 5.0 1.9 1.4 0.5 0.9 0.8 1.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Ehrharta erecta* Y 1.5 1.6 Y 9.9 10.2 0.8 1.2 10.6 23.4 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 2.5 4.8 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum Y 2.2 4.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 1.3 1.5 Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 3.5 8.1 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata Y 4.6 14.4 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Y 1.4 2.6 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Pentaschistis airoides* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 4.8 8.7 Y 1.4 2.6 Y 0.9 1.4 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 1.9 4.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 40.9 42.6 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 15.8 19.4 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus Y 10.8 29.8 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.7 1.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 9.0 17.5 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Y 1.0 1.4 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis Y 1.9 4.9 Y 2.1 2.5 Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.8 2.5 Tda . * Sonchus asper* Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia Y 0.3 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera Y 8.0 13.0 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 . . . Unknown Poaceae 4.2 11.1 Tda . * Vicia sativa* Y 0.3 0.9 Leaf Litter 93.5 6.3 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 2.0 2.5 0.5 0.9 Open Water 39.8 48.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 49.0 66.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 2: Top Island Burnt Site SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (burnt) 1 1 S 35o52'46.5" E 144o59'20.6" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 1.2 2.6 Y 30.0 29.0 Y 7.7 17.1 -35.87958 144.98906 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 44.8 30.4 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 74.0 33.5 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 45.5 35.3 39.8 24.2 40.7 27.2 33.0 27.8 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 5.3 14.2 Y 3.0 5.1 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 Y 7.5 14.1 Y 46.8 31.8 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 3.4 3.4 Y 8.0 14.6 Y 1.2 1.5 ATe . . Phragmites australis 47.8 25.3 3.0 2.0 1.2 1.5 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 4.7 8.7 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.4 0.9 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 11.2 29.8 24.8 26.7 47.0 33.4 57.3 33.7 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 1.4 2.6 Leaf Litter 84.5 25.1 90.5 7.1 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 9.2 8.6 1.6 2.5 0.9 2.5 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 323.0 58.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (burnt) 1 2 S 35o52'46.4" E 144o59'22.6" ATe . . Alisma plantago-aquatica 0.1 0.2 -35.87956 144.98961 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.3 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* Y 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.5 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 1.1 2.6 0.7 1.2 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 1.4 1.4 Y 2.9 5.1 Y 1.4 2.5 1.0 1.1 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.6 0.9 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 0.9 1.2 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 1.8 2.6 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 7.2 12.6 Y 8.2 11.3 Y 3.1 5.1 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.9 2.5 Y 1.3 1.5 Y 1.0 2.5 0.2 0.3 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 0.8 2.5 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 48.7 38.0 0.2 0.3 16.8 25.4 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 1.5 1.6 Y 0.3 0.3 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 32.5 38.3 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 82.3 28.7 82.8 26.7 94.5 3.2 83.5 16.2 Bare Ground 0.3 0.9 14.3 11.9 5.8 4.6 16.8 16.9 Open Water 91.5 12.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 86.5 28.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (burnt) 1 3 S 35o52'46.5" E 144o59'25.4" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 -35.87958 144.99039 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Y 1.9 3.3 Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.7 1.2 Y 5.6 10.8 Tda . . Asperula conferta 0.3 0.3 9.1 23.8 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 2.3 4.8 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Centella cordifolia 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 Y 0.6 0.9 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Dittrichia graveolens* 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.6 0.9 0.2 0.3 Y 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 3.4 4.9 Y 0.7 0.8 Y 4.2 7.9 Y 7.5 14.1 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 1.8 3.3 ATe .  Paspalum distichum Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 1.3 2.5 Y 2.9 5.1 Y 2.5 5.2 Y 1.3 2.5 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.5 0.9 10.2 20.4 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 1.7 4.9 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.3 0.3 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.4 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.2 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 Leaf Litter 91.5 5.2 89.5 7.0 91.5 5.2 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 9.3 5.9 10.7 8.2 10.5 4.6 3.0 3.6 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (burnt) 2 1 S 35o52'44.2" E 144o59'20.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 2.0 1.4 Y 23.2 26.1 Y 1.4 1.4 -35.87894 144.98892 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 3.0 2.0 3.0 2.0 29.5 10.7 3.5 2.6 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.8 0.8 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 Y 3.8 6.3 2.7 5.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 9.3 26.8 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.3 0.9 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 353.5 65.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Top Island (burnt) 2 2 S 35o52'44.4" E 144o59'22.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.2 0.3 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.87900 144.98950 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.2 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 60.7 35.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens 0.4 0.9 2.2 4.8 4.7 11.1 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 1.0 1.1 Y 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 1.9 4.9 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 1.8 2.6 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 2.8 4.7 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 23.0 16.3 Y 15.5 11.2 Y 20.0 26.4 0.7 0.8 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 12.8 23.6 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 28.1 42.3 11.6 26.4 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.3 0.3 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 32.5 32.1 Leaf Litter 36.5 21.3 52.0 29.4 54.5 28.5 85.5 10.5 Bare Ground 0.4 0.9 29.5 20.8 42.0 26.4 13.5 11.7 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 111.5 34.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (burnt) 2 3 S 35o52'44.0" E 144o59'24.5" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.87889 144.99014 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.7 1.2 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Centella cordifolia 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa Y 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.9 1.1 0.5 0.2 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.7 0.8 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 0.4 0.9 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 1.0 2.5 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 4.6 8.0 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.4 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.9 2.5 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 4.3 8.9 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.2 0.3 Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.9 1.2 Leaf Litter 88.5 8.2 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 10.5 10.3 3.5 3.3 2.7 3.1 1.2 1.3 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 3: Top Island (Original Site) SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 1 1 S 35o53'25.6" E 144o59'33.6" Se . . Algae (Brown) 16.8 31.3 -35.89044 144.99267 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 23.7 27.8 Y 6.8 8.1 Y 2.2 1.3 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.7 0.8 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus exaltatus 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 6.9 5.6 Y 3.5 5.3 11.1 18.8 2.6 3.1 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.4 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 Y 2.3 4.8 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.6 1.3 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 2.7 5.2 Y 29.0 41.9 Y 6.6 9.2 Y 0.8 1.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 1.0 1.4 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 2.4 5.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 9.6 30.2 0.2 0.3 0.9 1.4 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.7 1.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.3 0.3 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.4 0.9 0.8 1.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Typha orientalis 0.8 2.5 Leaf Litter 84.5 19.1 92.5 4.8 95.5 0.0 86.5 7.4 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 7.7 5.0 4.8 5.0 12.9 9.7 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 238.5 83.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 1 2 S 35o53'25.9" E 144o59'36.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.89053 144.99339 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Asperula conferta 0.5 0.2 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 7.2 6.3 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Dittrichia graveolens* Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.4 0.2 Y 0.7 0.8 Y 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.8 1.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 4.7 14.3 31.5 29.4 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.2 0.3 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.3 0.3 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 3.9 6.6 Tda . . Teucrium racemosum 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 91.5 5.2 81.5 15.8 89.5 5.2 94.5 3.2 Bare Ground 9.3 5.9 14.0 10.7 12.0 4.7 1.8 4.8 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 1 3 S 35o53'25.6" E 144o59'38.1" Tdr k . Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) Y 0.4 0.9 -35.89044 144.99392 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.2 0.3 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Asperula conferta 1.0 2.5 1.2 2.6 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tdr . # Chamaesyce drummondii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cotula bipinnata* 0.2 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Einadia nutans Y 0.4 0.9 1.1 1.4 Y 0.9 2.5 0.5 0.9 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Euphorbia peplus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 1.1 2.5 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Polycarpon tetraphyllum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 1.7 2.5 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Xerochrysum bracteatum Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 86.8 27.7 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 Bare Ground 1.9 2.5 6.7 14.0 1.1 1.3 2.1 4.8 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 2 1 S 35o53'22.2" E 144o59'34.3" Se . . Algae (Brown) 57.3 49.3 -35.88950 144.99286 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 3.1 3.6 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Asperula conferta 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.2 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.3 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 4.9 14.3 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens 8.7 9.5 14.5 13.6 15.8 14.6 2.8 2.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.4 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 9.7 26.8 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.7 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 16.9 27.2 Y 13.2 12.8 Y 1.8 2.6 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 3.6 11.2 Y 5.2 8.8 Y 12.1 26.5 Y 1.1 2.6 ATe . . Phragmites australis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 2.9 8.0 0.4 0.9 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus 0.8 2.5 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.3 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 69.5 31.7 93.5 6.3 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.3 0.9 5.0 7.6 0.8 1.2 1.3 2.5 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 142.5 38.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 2 2 S 35o53'21.7" E 144o59'35.8" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.88936 144.99328 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 1.5 2.6 Tda . . Asperula conferta 0.1 0.2 3.9 11.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 9.3 10.8 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Cotula bipinnata* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.2 Y 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 0.4 0.9 2.6 8.0 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Polygonum arenastrum* Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 8.9 12.1 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 4.0 8.0 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Urtica urens* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 94.5 3.2 93.5 6.3 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 2.5 4.7 5.7 7.7 2.2 3.2 0.5 0.9 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Island (original) 2 3 S 35o53'21.4" E 144o59'37.7" Tdr k . Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 -35.88928 144.99381 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Aphanes australiana 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Asperula conferta 1.1 1.3 0.4 0.9 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Y 1.1 1.4 Y 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 2.7 8.0 Tdr . . Austrostipa scabra Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.4 0.9 Tda .  Cotula australis 0.2 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.8 0.8 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Dittrichia graveolens* 0.1 0.2 Y 3.7 6.3 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 6.1 9.3 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum Y 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Liverwort (Asterella sp.) 0.5 0.9 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Medicago polymorpha* 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Moss 1.0 2.5 0.8 1.2 33.5 35.5 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Phalaris minor* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Polycarpon tetraphyllum* Y 1.0 2.5 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 13.5 14.7 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* Y 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Y 1.0 1.4 Y 0.8 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Xanthium spinosum* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Xerochrysum bracteatum Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.7 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 90.5 12.7 66.0 37.4 82.5 25.4 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 9.3 13.6 25.0 24.5 17.3 26.2 0.0 0.0 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 4: Little Rushy Swamp SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Little Rushy Swamp 1 1 S 35o53'24.4" E 145o02'24.9" Se . . Algae (Green) 13.4 21.4 -35.89011 145.04025 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 6.1 8.3 Y 0.7 1.2 0.5 0.9 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.1 0.2 1.6 4.9 6.6 20.7 0.5 0.9 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 1.6 1.5 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.7 1.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda minima Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 61.4 40.2 59.5 41.5 66.0 29.8 51.7 35.4 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 1.3 2.5 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 2.4 5.2 Y 14.6 27.0 6.8 11.2 9.1 12.5 Tda . . Moss 1.2 2.6 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 1.4 2.6 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 24.0 31.0 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 9.8 10.5 15.3 29.3 2.3 4.8 17.4 26.1 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 2.3 4.8 20.0 26.1 1.5 2.6 19.9 28.2 Leaf Litter 59.8 41.0 74.5 32.1 76.5 26.4 83.5 21.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 14.0 13.4 21.1 26.1 13.7 12.4 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 141.0 40.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Little Rushy Swamp 1 2 S 35o53'24.8" E 145o02'24.5" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 1.3 1.5 Y 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.89022 145.04014 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 20.5 18.0 11.6 16.2 2.5 1.1 21.5 26.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 3.4 4.9 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.8 1.2 Y 0.7 1.2 0.4 0.9 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.3 0.9 Y 0.7 1.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 1.8 3.3 Y 27.2 32.2 30.7 29.1 31.7 32.9 Tda . . Moss 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 1.4 2.6 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata Y 2.9 8.0 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 28.5 38.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 14.2 22.5 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 1.1 2.6 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 47.5 40.1 13.9 23.1 2.2 2.4 35.5 25.4 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.7 1.2 Leaf Litter 9.5 5.6 63.8 25.6 68.5 24.5 57.5 25.7 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 13.8 6.1 32.8 24.2 8.3 8.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 195.0 37.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Little Rushy Swamp 1 3 S 35o53'21.0" E 145o02'23.9" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.88917 145.03997 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 1.0 1.4 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 4.2 6.1 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 4.2 5.0 Y 2.5 5.2 2.5 3.1 0.9 1.1 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.7 0.9 Y 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.7 1.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.7 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 Bare Ground 0.6 0.9 1.2 2.6 0.2 0.3 2.1 4.8 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Little Rushy Swamp 2 1 S 35o53'25.3" E 145o02'23.0" Se . . Algae (Green) 83.0 29.9 -35.89036 145.03972 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 2.1 2.5 Y 1.5 1.3 0.5 0.9 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.8 2.5 0.4 0.9 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 3.7 3.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 2.8 5.1 Y 2.6 3.1 Y 0.6 1.3 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 6.9 12.9 16.7 31.7 14.0 25.1 2.0 3.3 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 Y 19.3 31.5 0.5 0.9 2.3 3.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 6.5 13.9 ARp . . Ottelia ovalifolia subsp. ovalifolia 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.8 2.5 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 68.8 29.3 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 8.7 15.1 11.6 20.7 3.7 4.8 3.2 3.5 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 39.3 32.0 3.2 4.6 0.4 0.9 8.0 13.0 ARp . . Utricularia australis 3.3 5.0 Leaf Litter 1.8 2.4 45.8 27.5 26.0 27.5 43.5 26.6 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 36.0 23.8 75.3 28.6 53.5 27.4 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 217.5 31.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Little Rushy Swamp 2 2 S 35o53'26.5" E 145o02'23.2" Se . . Algae (Green) 56.5 33.8 -35.89069 145.03978 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.7 1.2 4.2 5.0 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.1 0.2 Y 3.9 5.1 Y 1.0 1.4 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.8 2.5 2.7 5.2 0.6 1.3 0.8 2.5 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 2.0 3.3 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata 2.5 4.8 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.3 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 91.5 9.7 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 40.8 22.3 33.0 30.1 3.3 1.8 3.5 1.6 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 22.4 27.0 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 1.6 4.9 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 0.5 0.0 71.8 28.5 78.5 11.6 82.5 11.6 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 23.0 15.9 22.8 11.2 19.3 10.7 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 217.5 29.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Little Rushy Swamp 2 3 S 35o53'28.3" E 145o02'23.4" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.89119 145.03983 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 51.7 43.2 Tda . . Asperula conferta 1.2 2.6 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.0 0.0 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 1.0 1.4 1.0 1.4 0.9 1.4 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Cotula australis Y 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.7 1.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.9 1.1 Y 1.0 1.1 Y 1.5 1.3 0.5 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum Y 1.3 1.5 Y 0.7 0.8 0.4 0.2 0.4 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 1.6 1.5 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium suffocatum* Y 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 1.2 2.6 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.9 2.5 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 2.6 3.1 0.1 0.2 1.3 1.5 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.7 0.9 0.0 0.0 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 5: Top Lake SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 1 1 S 35o54'43.8" E 145o02'43.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 29.0 17.0 Y 5.5 2.6 Y 10.3 9.6 -35.91217 145.04536 Tda . . Brachyscome basaltica Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.8 0.8 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 23.0 10.8 0.7 0.8 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 5.2 8.8 Y 0.9 1.4 0.7 1.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.9 1.1 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 5.5 11.6 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 1.4 1.4 Y 1.3 1.5 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.6 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 23.5 14.8 9.5 21.2 Leaf Litter 4.8 2.9 30.8 13.0 49.5 9.7 75.5 14.1 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 36.5 28.7 51.5 9.7 24.5 15.4 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 141.0 18.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 1 2 S 35o54'44.3" E 145o02'42.9" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 31.8 19.6 Y 50.3 33.0 Y 4.8 2.9 Y 3.5 2.7 -35.91231 145.04525 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 12.8 17.8 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 1.2 1.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.9 1.1 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata 1 0.0 0.0 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.7 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.8 1.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 92.5 6.7 92.5 4.8 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 5.0 4.4 7.3 5.1 7.3 6.2 1.9 2.5 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 1 3 S 35o54'44.0" E 145o02'40.5" Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 81.5 19.0 -35.91222 145.04458 Tda . . Asperula conferta 1.1 2.6 Tda . . Brachyscome basaltica Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.5 0.9 1.5 2.6 0.5 0.9 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cotula bipinnata* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.4 0.9 1.2 2.6 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 1.3 1.2 0.4 0.2 Y 0.5 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.3 0.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.3 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.6 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.7 1.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Veronica peregrina* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Xerochrysum bracteatum Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 1.0 1.1 0.6 0.9 1.4 2.5 0.0 0.0 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 2 1 S 35o54'42.0" E 145o02'44.4" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 19.8 9.3 Y 2.7 2.3 Y 1.8 3.3 -35.91167 145.04567 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.3 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.2 0.3 1.1 1.3 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.5 0.9 Y 13.6 23.6 5.1 6.3 1.8 2.6 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.5 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 11.0 10.4 0.8 0.8 1.2 1.3 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 3.5 6.4 0.8 2.5 1.5 2.6 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.5 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.6 0.9 Y 0.9 1.1 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.3 0.3 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 24.0 23.8 47.7 37.6 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 5.3 4.2 32.5 14.9 55.5 19.4 77.5 13.2 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 50.0 26.7 45.5 19.4 8.0 8.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 177.0 16.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 2 2 S 35o54'41.8" E 145o02'42.8" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 21.3 21.4 Y 46.5 35.8 Y 4.5 3.2 Y 2.7 2.3 -35.91161 145.04522 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 1.7 2.5 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus exaltatus 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.2 0.3 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 1.1 1.4 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.4 0.9 0.4 0.9 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata Y 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 2.3 2.5 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.7 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 5.4 8.6 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.2 0.2 Leaf Litter 74.8 32.2 95.5 0.0 89.5 7.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 3.0 5.1 3.7 3.2 10.8 8.1 1.0 1.1 Open Water 48.1 50.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 51.5 51.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Top Lake 2 3 S 35o54'42.2" E 145o02'40.7" Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 3.9 5.1 -35.91172 145.04464 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 3.5 4.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 10.3 5.1 2.5 2.4 2.5 1.1 0.9 1.1 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 1.9 2.5 1.6 2.5 2.0 2.5 0.2 0.3 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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Site 6: Steamer Plain SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 1 1 S 35o56'11.3" E 144o59'29.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.93647 144.99144 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.5 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.7 1.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 72.5 28.7 62.5 33.3 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 13.8 6.1 Y 82.5 25.0 90.5 10.8 11.5 6.5 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 26.7 35.4 Y 24.7 36.2 40.0 44.9 27.4 36.7 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.5 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.9 1.2 Y 3.2 2.9 2.9 3.0 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 16.7 11.6 6.9 6.6 4.5 4.3 0.8 1.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.4 0.9 Y 3.3 5.0 1.1 1.3 10.7 20.8 Leaf Litter 2.3 3.1 24.8 27.5 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 1.9 4.9 1.7 2.5 0.1 0.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 93.5 6.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 339.0 29.6 63.0 33.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 1 2 S 35o56'12.1" E 144o59'33.7" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 2.0 4.8 0.9 1.4 -35.93669 144.99269 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 1.1 2.6 0.1 0.2 0.7 1.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 52.0 42.2 83.5 22.0 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 1.2 2.6 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 12.5 22.6 Y 57.8 33.8 60.2 46.1 9.9 11.1 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 24.1 38.6 Y 21.3 30.1 20.6 31.1 26.2 32.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 3.5 5.3 Y 22.5 15.9 0.7 0.9 14.1 22.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 17.5 22.6 21.7 20.3 1.9 2.5 2.8 5.1 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata 0.1 0.2 Y 1.9 4.9 ATe .  Paspalum distichum Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper Y 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 1.9 4.9 2.7 5.2 4.8 8.7 Leaf Litter 1.8 2.4 20.0 24.6 68.3 40.2 85.5 20.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 26.1 39.2 7.5 11.7 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 369.5 57.5 143.0 55.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 1 3 S 35o56'15.5" E 144o59'40.4" Tdr . * Alopecurus geniculatus* Y 0.1 0.2 -35.93764 144.99456 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 2.2 4.8 Y 2.2 1.4 0.4 0.9 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 3.8 4.7 0.1 0.2 Y 2.6 4.7 15.4 25.3 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 6.5 4.3 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.2 0.2 Y 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.9 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 10.0 5.1 Y 67.8 37.2 24.5 39.9 1.4 1.4 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.6 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Lobelia concolor 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 4.4 7.8 Y 6.5 10.6 2.0 1.4 2.7 4.7 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.7 1.2 7.2 11.0 0.5 0.9 1.5 1.3 ATe .  Paspalum distichum 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 1.1 2.6 Y 1.0 2.5 Y 5.7 6.9 Y 5.0 14.3 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 1.0 2.5 Y 2.9 4.7 Y 7.9 11.0 Y 0.3 0.3 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.3 0.9 0.9 1.4 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.5 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 61.5 19.6 Y 3.5 2.6 8.3 11.1 44.3 31.4 Leaf Litter 2.0 2.4 60.8 26.2 74.5 24.2 92.5 6.7 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 8.0 9.1 25.5 25.3 1.4 1.4 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 261.5 15.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 1 4 S 35o56'17.3" E 144o59'44.9" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.93814 144.99581 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.3 0.3 0.6 0.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 0.3 0.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.8 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.6 0.9 0.1 0.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Steamer Plain 2 1 S 35o55'56.0" E 144o59'31.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.4 0.2 7.7 5.0 -35.93222 144.99200 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 1.3 1.2 1.3 2.5 7.5 8.1 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 6.5 4.4 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 9.6 30.2 Y 10.1 26.9 12.9 30.1 10.4 30.0 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.4 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Moss 47.8 32.1 ARp . . Myriophyllum caput-medusae 6.2 6.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 1.6 4.9 Leaf Litter 3.3 2.8 14.2 32.0 9.0 23.5 17.8 36.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 86.3 29.3 77.5 38.0 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 511.0 23.2 291.5 27.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 2 2 S 35o55'56.0" E 144o59'32.6" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 13.6 26.0 33.6 34.0 -35.93222 144.99239 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.3 0.9 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 37.3 22.5 77.8 29.4 7.8 17.4 3.5 6.4 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.7 1.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 83.5 16.2 Y 78.8 29.5 84.3 28.8 83.5 23.0 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 1.5 1.3 0.7 0.9 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 0.7 1.2 Tda . . Moss 8.9 23.5 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 2.6 8.1 Leaf Litter 67.5 23.5 91.5 7.0 89.5 19.0 92.5 6.7 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 6.6 10.7 1.7 2.5 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 435.5 21.0 196.5 55.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Steamer Plain 2 3 S 35o55'56.5" E 144o59'35.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 -35.93236 144.99308 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 1.2 2.6 5.7 14.2 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 5.8 4.6 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 24.8 18.3 43.8 31.9 3.8 4.3 6.8 4.0 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 6.4 11.4 Y 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 7.4 12.7 Y 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 1.1 2.6 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Paspalum distichum 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 4.5 11.0 Y 7.3 20.5 Y 4.4 11.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 1.7 4.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 2.8 4.7 1.7 3.4 1.9 4.9 17.0 33.6 Leaf Litter 1.3 1.2 94.5 3.2 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 3.2 5.0 4.0 5.0 0.2 0.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 225.5 37.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Steamer Plain 2 4 S 35o55'57.3" E 144o59'36.9" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.3 0.3 Y 0.2 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.93258 144.99358 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.6 0.9 Y 0.8 1.2 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 3.7 3.2 4.3 4.9 ATe . . Carex gaudichaudiana Y 11.2 15.5 Y 9.1 10.7 7.6 9.5 3.1 5.1 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.3 0.9 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 10.7 12.1 Y 1.5 1.3 Y 6.0 10.3 1.6 2.5 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.7 1.2 Y 0.8 0.8 Y 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Medicago polymorpha* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.8 2.5 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 2.7 8.0 0.7 1.2 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 2.4 2.4 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Senecio minimus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.4 0.9 Y 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.3 0.9 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.9 1.4 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 7: Wathours Lagoon SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 1 0 S 35o50'33.5" E 145o00'35.6" Se . . Algae (Green) 0.3 0.9 -35.84264 145.00989 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 1.2 2.6 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus Y 0.3 0.9 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 76.8 34.5 83.0 29.9 7.9 23.8 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda minima Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 28.0 38.6 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 37.7 24.4 25.7 27.1 45.0 37.8 56.5 34.8 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.3 0.9 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.1 0.2 8.1 23.7 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 5.3 10.9 Y 30.8 44.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.5 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 9.6 30.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 4.0 11.1 10.2 21.0 ARp . . Myriophyllum variifolium 24.3 36.7 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.3 0.9 Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.3 0.9 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Polygonum plebeium 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 29.5 23.8 18.7 18.0 2.3 4.8 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Typha orientalis 16.7 31.7 Y 10.4 30.0 16.9 33.7 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Utricularia australis 8.5 20.3 Leaf Litter 76.5 25.6 95.5 0.0 85.5 24.9 83.5 25.7 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 13.4 26.1 10.1 18.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 269.0 33.5 186.5 45.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 1 1 S 35o50'32.5" E 145o00'37.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 2.3 4.8 Y 0.2 0.3 -35.84236 145.01036 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.4 0.9 0.6 1.3 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 0.8 2.5 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 17.8 15.4 10.8 7.3 38.5 16.4 33.8 20.1 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 1.3 1.5 Y 3.7 8.1 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.2 0.2 Y 8.7 23.6 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 0.3 0.9 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 22.4 38.8 Y 56.0 39.3 Y 34.4 40.1 Y 5.7 5.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 25.7 41.5 Y 8.4 20.6 3.8 6.3 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . * Ranunculus sceleratus* Y 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.2 0.3 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 1.9 4.9 Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* 0.8 2.5 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 12.1 25.6 7.9 23.8 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.3 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 91.5 12.6 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 6.8 14.0 0.2 0.3 Open Water 90.5 15.8 0.6 1.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 99.5 47.3 3.5 7.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 1 2 S 35o50'31.6" E 145o00'38.5" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 -35.84211 145.01069 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 7.7 13.7 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.1 0.2 8.3 13.4 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 1.1 1.4 21.7 25.6 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.4 0.2 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.4 0.2 Y 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.8 1.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 13.5 16.8 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* 0.8 2.5 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 88.5 15.7 83.8 27.4 87.5 11.4 83.5 16.2 Bare Ground 9.7 17.2 11.9 14.1 12.3 12.6 6.5 8.3 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 1 3 S 35o50'30.5" E 145o00'40.5" Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.2 0.3 -35.84181 145.01125 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 6.3 11.4 Tdr . . Boerhavia dominii Y 0.9 1.2 0.3 0.3 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 1.8 4.8 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.2 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cotula australis 0.2 0.3 Tda .  Cotula bipinnata 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Crassula sieberiana Y 0.3 0.3 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 5.0 3.3 0.1 0.2 15.0 10.1 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Enchylaena tomentosa 0.9 2.5 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Erodium sp.* 0.7 1.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum 0.9 1.4 Tdr . * Heliotropium europaeum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Liverwort (Asterella sp.) 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* Y 7.1 10.2 Y 8.2 13.9 Y 5.7 5.9 9.7 10.1 Tda . . Moss 4.3 6.4 6.8 17.3 17.8 30.4 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 1.3 1.5 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* 3.6 11.2 Tda . * Trifolium glomeratum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 5.3 14.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 1.3 2.5 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Xanthium spinosum* 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 94.5 3.2 85.5 15.6 76.5 30.0 70.5 29.9 Bare Ground 3.5 4.9 8.9 8.9 23.8 30.6 5.8 8.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 2 0 S 35o50'32.2" E 145o00'34.0" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.2 0.2 Y 1.5 2.6 Y 1.1 1.4 Y 0.5 0.9 -35.84228 145.00944 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.2 0.3 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.3 0.9 38.5 45.1 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.2 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda minima Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 0.3 0.9 0.6 1.3 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda - - Glinus oppositifolius Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 13.3 12.2 12.8 15.5 23.3 15.8 25.0 14.6 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.7 1.2 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 4.6 11.1 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 1.0 1.4 Y 21.4 35.8 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Moss 0.5 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.9 2.5 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum variifolium 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.6 1.3 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 9.0 14.1 Y 12.7 19.4 Y 19.3 28.2 Y 2.2 2.5 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.8 2.5 Y 8.7 15.7 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.7 0.9 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 1.4 2.6 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 1.1 2.6 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 1.2 2.6 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 3.2 5.5 4.1 5.1 9.1 16.8 3.1 5.1 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 93.5 4.2 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 93.5 6.3 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 1.1 2.6 5.5 4.9 4.4 7.8 Open Water 95.5 0.0 86.3 29.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 114.5 46.9 59.5 43.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 2 1 S 35o50'31.0" E 145o00'35.4" Tdr . . Acaena novae-zelandiae 0.1 0.2 -35.84194 145.00983 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 5.1 6.3 0.3 0.9 Y 0.7 1.2 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.8 2.5 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 2.0 4.9 Y 0.1 0.2 1.0 1.4 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 1.4 2.6 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Cyperus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 8.2 6.0 17.5 11.9 26.5 12.9 18.2 13.9 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 1.2 2.6 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 1.9 4.9 Y 10.1 26.6 Y 16.6 24.8 Y 3.2 8.0 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 1.6 3.4 8.2 20.4 2.4 5.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.4 0.9 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 2.8 8.0 Y 1.5 1.6 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.1 0.2 0.8 1.2 0.7 1.2 1.3 2.5 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 2 2 S 35o50'30.1" E 145o00'36.9" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.84169 145.01025 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 21.4 27.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.2 0.3 5.7 5.9 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.5 0.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.3 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Y 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Crassula sieberiana 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 4.9 7.4 17.3 33.5 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.4 0.2 0.4 0.2 0.5 0.0 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.2 0.2 1.2 1.3 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 15.0 13.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 1.9 4.9 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 1.1 1.4 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 83.5 11.4 89.5 15.8 89.5 7.0 Bare Ground 3.7 3.8 17.0 12.1 7.8 17.4 9.0 8.8 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Wathours Lagoon 2 3 S 35o50'28.7" E 145o00'39.2" Tdr . * Alternanthera pungens* 0.1 0.2 -35.84131 145.01089 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 5.9 10.7 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.2 0.2 Tdr . . Boerhavia dominii 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cucumis myriocarpus* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 Tda Dysphania glomulifera Y 0.2 0.3 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 4.2 4.9 26.3 28.3 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Euphorbia peplus* Y 1.0 2.5 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Fumaria muralis* 0.9 2.5 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Hypericum perforatum* Y 0.8 2.5 Tda * Leontodon taraxacoides* 4.0 11.1 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* Y 5.1 11.0 Y 2.2 4.8 Y 7.7 17.5 9.1 16.8 Tda . . Moss 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 1.8 2.6 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Teucrium racemosum 0.3 0.9 . . . Unknown Poaceae 1.4 2.5 Tdr . * Urtica urens* 9.9 30.1 Tda . * Vicia sativa* Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Xanthium spinosum* Y 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 85.5 22.1 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 11.9 24.0 1.1 1.3 2.6 5.2 0.5 0.9 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 8: Reed Beds Swamp SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 1 0 S 35o50'09.1" E 144o57'36.7" ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.2 0.3 0.6 0.9 -35.83586 144.96019 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.5 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 12.0 10.2 93.5 4.2 94.5 3.2 Y 91.5 8.4 S . . Riccia duplex 5.0 11.0 0.1 0.2 3.4 5.3 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.2 0.2 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Utricularia australis 10.5 30.0 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 477.5 42.2 140.0 48.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Reed Beds Swamp 1 1 S 35o50'07.6" E 144o57'37.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.83544 144.96031 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.8 1.2 3.9 6.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.8 2.5 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 5.5 4.5 14.8 12.8 16.5 7.5 9.5 7.5 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.5 0.9 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum sp. 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 1.6 4.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera Y 6.9 6.6 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Utricularia australis 0.4 0.9 22.6 35.1 Leaf Litter 91.5 8.4 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Open Water 95.5 0.0 18.8 32.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 265.5 52.1 50.5 60.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 1 2 S 35o50'05.5" E 144o57'37.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.83486 144.96036 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 6.1 13.9 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 24.0 30.9 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.2 0.3 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 1.0 1.4 0.8 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 1.8 3.3 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.9 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 1.1 1.4 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.8 2.5 0.1 0.2 0.9 2.5 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9 1.8 2.6 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.7 1.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.2 0.3 ARp . . Marsilea drummondii 5.6 17.5 2.9 8.0 0.4 0.9 5.2 11.7 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 1.7 2.6 0.6 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Polygonum arenastrum* 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.4 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 19.3 20.2 Leaf Litter 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 1.8 4.8 1.0 1.4 0.8 1.2 0.5 0.9 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 1 3 S 35o50'04.2" E 144o57'37.7" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.4 0.9 -35.83450 144.96047 Tdr k . Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.8 1.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 13.9 27.6 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 1.5 2.6 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 23.2 27.3 2.7 3.0 0.5 0.2 2.3 4.8 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.5 0.9 Y 1.6 2.6 0.1 0.2 1.9 2.5 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cotula australis Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Y 2.1 4.8 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 1.0 1.4 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.7 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* 0.3 0.9 8.9 23.4 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.5 0.9 Tdr . * Petrorhagia dubia* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii Y 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 24.3 33.3 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.6 0.9 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 2 0 S 35o50'08.2" E 144o57'32.3" Se . . Algae (Green) 22.5 22.4 -35.83561 144.95897 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 1.0 1.1 1.5 1.3 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.5 0.0 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.2 0.3 ATe . . Phragmites australis 11.5 6.5 94.5 3.2 94.5 3.2 Y 93.5 4.2 S . . Riccia duplex 26.9 36.4 55.0 38.2 13.5 20.2 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.4 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.9 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 492.5 71.6 237.0 20.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Reed Beds Swamp 2 1 S 35o50'06.7" E 144o57'32.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.83519 144.95897 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.2 0.3 0.6 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 3.4 2.7 10.5 8.2 12.5 10.3 10.0 12.1 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 1.2 1.3 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.8 2.5 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Phragmites australis 0.8 1.2 4.1 7.9 1.9 2.5 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera Y 5.3 8.7 1.1 1.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Utricularia australis 0.4 0.9 22.9 35.0 Leaf Litter 85.5 12.5 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.2 1.1 2.6 1.7 4.9 Open Water 95.5 0.0 25.3 39.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 329.5 65.3 24.0 37.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 2 2 S 35o50'04.9" E 144o57'33.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.83469 144.95919 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis* 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 1.9 2.5 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.8 2.5 Y 2.8 5.1 1.8 2.6 1.2 2.6 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.8 1.2 1.0 1.4 0.2 0.2 0.9 1.2 Tdr . . Einadia nutans Y 0.3 0.9 0.8 2.5 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.1 0.2 6.4 11.2 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Galium aparine* 17.1 32.6 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.7 1.2 Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.5 0.9 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.2 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea drummondii 34.6 41.1 33.7 39.5 2.8 3.1 8.3 9.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.1 0.2 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 16.2 31.4 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 3.0 8.0 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.7 1.2 Y 2.3 4.8 Y 9.3 14.9 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.7 1.2 0.5 0.9 Y 0.7 1.2 Tda . * Sonchus asper* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 2.9 3.7 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.3 Open Water 36.8 43.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 20.5 27.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Reed Beds Swamp 2 3 S 35o50'03.1" E 144o57'33.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 -35.83419 144.95919 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 2.0 3.3 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 47.5 31.9 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.4 0.9 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.6 0.9 0.5 0.9 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* 0.1 0.2 4.3 6.4 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 17.7 28.5 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* 0.1 0.2 4.3 7.9 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.3 0.9 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Marsilea drummondii 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.5 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 51.5 18.4 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.1 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 9: Black Gate Lagoon SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Black Gate Lagoon 1 1 S 35o47'43.2" E 144o54'33.5" ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 50.5 39.8 88.5 22.1 83.5 19.9 5.5 5.7 -35.79533 144.90931 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 81.5 19.0 62.0 35.7 64.5 26.9 57.7 35.1 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.8 0.8 0.5 0.2 0.3 0.3 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 3.7 11.2 Y 0.3 0.9 9.0 23.5 14.1 30.6 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.4 0.2 Leaf Litter 85.5 19.4 95.5 0.0 33.3 22.4 53.3 29.4 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.6 4.9 1.6 4.9 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 86.0 30.2 95.5 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 586.0 93.1 364.5 98.4 158.5 86.9 136.0 80.6 Black Gate Lagoon 1 2 S 35o47'41.1" E 144o54'35.6" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 -35.79475 144.90989 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Centella cordifolia 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tdr . . Elymus scaber Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Exocarpos strictus 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 2.9 8.0 6.2 17.4 Tdr . * Fumaria muralis* Y 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.9 1.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.2 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 2.8 5.1 Y 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.8 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 2.5 4.7 3.6 6.4 1.4 2.5 1.1 1.4 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Black Gate Lagoon 1 3 S 35o47'41.7" E 144o54'33.8" Tdr k . Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) Y 0.1 0.2 1.7 3.4 -35.79492 144.90939 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 1.6 2.6 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* Y 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.9 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.6 0.9 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 1.2 2.6 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 1.0 2.5 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 1.0 1.4 0.6 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.7 1.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 3.3 5.0 7.3 9.7 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Elymus scaber Y 0.3 0.3 Tdr . . Enchylaena tomentosa 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Exocarpos strictus 0.1 0.2 1.0 2.5 4.9 14.3 12.1 26.5 Tdr . * Fumaria muralis* 0.1 0.2 0.9 2.5 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 0.9 2.5 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Petrorhagia dubia* Y 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii Y 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium campestre* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 3.0 8.0 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 1.0 1.1 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Xerochrysum bracteatum Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 1.9 4.8 1.2 2.6 0.2 0.3 0.8 1.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Black Gate Lagoon 2 1 S 35o47'43.0" E 144o54'31.6" Se . . Algae (Green) 0.1 0.2 -35.79528 144.90878 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 54.5 35.1 95.5 0.0 92.5 6.7 34.5 18.5 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 41.2 36.6 50.9 43.7 47.4 45.5 53.9 45.5 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.5 0.0 0.3 0.3 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 1.6 4.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 10.0 30.1 22.0 36.3 30.8 40.2 16.8 24.2 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Typha orientalis 3.6 11.2 Y 2.6 8.1 Y 3.1 6.5 3.4 8.2 Leaf Litter 54.0 36.3 51.5 42.9 65.3 38.2 57.3 33.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 667.5 35.4 424.5 51.0 205.5 37.4 171.5 52.6 Black Gate Lagoon 2 2 S 35o47'42.5" E 144o54'35.6" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.1 0.2 -35.79514 144.90989 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* 9.1 20.4 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 6.5 11.4 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 5.0 11.0 Y 1.8 2.6 0.7 1.2 1.1 2.5 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.3 0.9 0.7 1.2 0.1 0.2 0.7 1.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Exocarpos strictus Y 1.2 2.6 1.7 3.4 1.0 1.4 1.7 4.9 Tdr . * Fumaria muralis* Y 0.6 1.3 3.9 11.2 Tda . * Galium aparine* Y 5.3 10.9 7.1 11.8 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.1 0.2 8.9 26.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.5 0.9 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Petrorhagia dubia* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio minimus Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.6 0.9 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 0.9 2.5 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.8 1.2 1.1 1.4 1.4 2.5 0.8 1.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Black Gate Lagoon 2 3 S 35o47'41.4" E 144o54'31.5" Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* Y 0.1 0.2 1.4 2.6 -35.79483 144.90875 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Austrostipa scabra Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 1.5 1.3 Tdr . . Boerhavia dominii 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 1.0 1.4 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Cotula australis Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Crassula sieberiana Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 10.3 11.4 Y 0.1 0.2 30.3 32.0 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Elymus scaber Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Enchylaena tomentosa 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Exocarpos strictus 2.9 8.0 0.4 0.9 Tda . * Galium aparine* 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.2 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.6 0.9 5.2 4.7 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.4 0.9 0.5 0.9 1.1 2.6 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Pentaschistis airoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Petrorhagia dubia* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 1.6 4.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium arvense* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium campestre* Y 0.4 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 7.5 8.6 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 2.5 4.7 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.6 0.9 0.7 0.9 1.2 1.3 0.9 1.1 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 10: Duck Lagoon SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Duck Lagoon 1 1 S 35o50'42.5" E 144o55'09.4" ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 15.1 24.4 Y 17.5 33.4 32.5 33.7 5.3 8.7 -35.84514 144.91928 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 42.4 41.9 13.9 29.1 35.3 44.0 40.4 42.3 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 1.5 1.6 20.8 37.0 40.8 39.5 4.5 11.0 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum Y 1.6 4.9 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 31.5 37.2 44.1 45.5 55.0 39.7 74.3 36.6 Leaf Litter 60.0 40.8 86.8 27.7 71.5 29.1 42.3 41.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.6 7.8 0.3 0.9 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.9 Water Depth (mm) 536.0 34.9 293.5 31.5 0.0 0.0 3.5 7.5 Duck Lagoon 1 2 S 35o50'42.1" E 144o55'04.7" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.2 0.3 Y 0.3 0.9 -35.84503 144.91797 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans Y 59.3 37.6 Y 44.8 39.2 4.0 7.7 49.5 33.7 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 10.4 29.9 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 2.7 8.0 Y 2.2 4.9 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Heliotropium europaeum* 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus holoschoenus Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.3 0.9 Y 9.6 30.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 4.6 14.4 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 2.4 5.3 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus Y 8.9 26.9 Y 0.3 0.9 1.1 2.6 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 9.4 23.7 2.2 4.9 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Typha orientalis 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 71.5 32.0 88.5 22.1 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 2.6 8.1 0.5 0.9 1.1 2.5 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 158.5 36.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Duck Lagoon 1 3 S 35o50'41.3" E 144o55'00.5" Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.9 2.5 -35.84481 144.91681 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.9 Tdr . . Austrostipa scabra Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 2.0 2.4 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.4 0.9 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 0.8 1.2 1.0 1.4 0.6 0.9 0.3 0.9 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio 0.1 0.2 Tda .  Cotula australis 16.4 16.1 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.2 0.3 3.0 5.1 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 1.6 4.9 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.1 0.2 0.8 1.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.8 1.2 Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.2 0.2 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii 0.3 0.3 1.0 1.1 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium arvense* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium glomeratum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 1.9 2.5 . . . Unknown Poaceae 27.8 30.2 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.5 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 Leaf Litter 87.5 16.2 92.5 4.8 89.5 7.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 11.0 17.7 6.2 6.9 10.8 8.1 3.7 3.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Duck Lagoon 2 1 S 35o50'46.3" E 144o55'08.9" Se . . Algae (Green) 0.3 0.9 -35.84619 144.91914 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 9.1 23.5 9.7 16.7 0.1 0.2 1.0 2.5 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Y 27.7 44.6 14.9 31.7 28.7 46.1 14.2 28.7 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 6.6 20.7 ARp . . Myriophyllum caput-medusae 0.3 0.9 Y 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 26.0 27.1 53.9 44.0 6.5 8.1 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum variifolium 9.2 12.5 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 51.2 45.3 56.7 46.2 61.5 42.7 85.3 29.1 Leaf Litter 56.5 37.0 76.8 29.7 82.5 22.1 35.0 34.2 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Open Water 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 475.5 86.2 253.0 84.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Duck Lagoon 2 2 S 35o50'45.5" E 144o55'04.2" ATe . . Alisma plantago-aquatica Y 0.3 0.9 -35.84597 144.91783 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 0.4 0.9 Y 2.0 4.9 Y 0.4 0.9 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans Y 24.5 26.7 Y 47.0 41.4 10.0 14.2 41.2 35.6 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr Chenopodium desertorum ssp. microphyllum Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 7.0 17.1 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 6.0 17.4 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 6.7 17.4 Y 16.7 31.7 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Juncus holoschoenus Y 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Juncus ingens 1.1 2.6 1.6 4.9 1.6 4.9 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.3 0.9 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.4 0.9 0.3 0.9 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum 0.3 0.9 Sk . . Myriophyllum simulans 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.3 0.9 Y 2.9 8.0 Y 11.5 20.9 Y 1.3 1.5 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Y 0.3 0.9 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.4 0.9 Y 7.6 23.9 0.3 0.9 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.2 0.2 1.0 1.4 Y 0.5 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.6 0.9 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 5.0 6.4 20.1 33.5 Y 3.1 5.1 4.4 11.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 90.5 8.5 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 1.2 3.2 6.5 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 137.5 28.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Duck Lagoon 2 3 S 35o50'45.4" E 144o54'59.9" Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* 0.2 0.3 -35.84594 144.91664 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia duttoniana 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Y 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Y 1.4 1.4 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Y 0.6 1.3 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Y 1.0 1.4 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Carex inversa Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* Y 0.3 0.9 Tda .  Cotula australis 0.4 0.9 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Y 0.4 0.9 Y 0.6 1.3 Y 0.4 0.9 2.9 7.9 Tdr . . Einadia nutans 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Enchylaena tomentosa 0.4 0.9 0.4 0.9 Y 0.9 1.4 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Y 0.8 1.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris glabra* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Y 0.6 0.9 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Y 0.3 0.3 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Oxalis perennans 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rumex brownii Y 0.2 0.3 Y 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tdr . . Salsola tragus Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Trifolium arvense* Y 1.3 2.5 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* 1.2 2.6 . . . Unknown Poaceae 24.7 29.1 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 2.8 0.8 43.6 41.3 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 1.1 1.3 Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 92.5 9.5 Bare Ground 0.2 0.2 1.8 4.8 0.9 1.2 0.5 0.9 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Site 11: Algaboia Plain SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Algaboia Plain 1 1 S 35o57'49.4" E 144o56'14.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 -35.96372 144.93725 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus 0.3 0.9 Y 0.3 0.9 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Y 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 23.5 24.5 Y 93.5 4.2 2.0 1.3 1.0 1.1 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.5 0.9 Y 0.4 0.2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum 4.7 6.2 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 1.6 4.9 Y 0.9 2.5 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 5.3 8.7 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.9 0.9 2.5 0.0 0.0 Open Water 95.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 142.5 18.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Algaboia Plain 1 2 S 35o57'45.8" E 144o56'19.6" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.2 0.3 Y 10.5 13.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.96272 144.93878 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.7 1.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 1.5 2.6 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta 0.9 1.1 Y 34.3 40.0 0.8 1.2 0.5 0.0 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 1.6 4.9 Y 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Lichen 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.9 1.4 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.3 0.9 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.8 1.2 0.3 0.9 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 0.5 0.9 0.1 0.2 Open Water 38.2 49.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 21.0 31.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Algaboia Plain 1 3 S 35o57'44.2" E 144o56'23.8" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.9 1.2 Y 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.2 -35.96228 144.93994 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.4 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 6.2 8.2 3.0 5.0 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.4 0.9 Y 0.5 0.9 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* Y 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 8.2 23.7 0.8 1.2 0.5 0.9 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Hypochaeris glabra* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 0.3 0.3 Y 0.6 0.9 Y 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.2 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 23.8 29.1 Y 2.5 1.1 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 Y 0.2 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.2 0.2 Y 0.3 0.9 Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum 0.2 0.3 Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.4 0.9 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.9 1.1 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.2 0.3 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Y 14.1 30.6 3.8 6.3 ARp . . Triglochin procera 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Veronica peregrina* Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Algaboia Plain 2 1 S 35o57'47.7" E 144o56'12.3" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Y 1.0 2.5 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.96325 144.93675 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 20.3 23.8 Y 72.5 36.5 1.3 1.2 1.0 1.1 ATe . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.3 0.9 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.9 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.3 0.3 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Y 33.1 37.3 7.1 11.2 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.9 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Y 2.9 8.0 Y 7.7 23.8 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 53.5 42.6 1.4 2.6 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Leaf Litter 56.3 42.2 91.5 7.0 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 6.5 9.3 3.0 5.0 0.5 0.9 Open Water 66.9 46.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 117.0 97.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Algaboia Plain 2 2 S 35o57'44.6" E 144o56'18.1" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 1.1 1.3 Y 7.0 8.0 Y 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.3 -35.96239 144.93836 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga 0.3 0.3 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides 0.6 0.9 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Y 3.0 2.1 Y 42.3 40.9 1.3 1.2 0.8 0.8 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis 0.1 0.2 Y 0.6 0.9 ARf . . Landoltia punctata 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.1 0.2 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus 0.9 1.4 0.7 1.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Y 0.3 0.9 Tda . . Rumex tenax 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa 0.2 0.3 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 0.8 1.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 Open Water 34.8 42.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 16.0 19.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 continued….

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SPRING 2015 SUMMER 2015/16 AUTUMN 2016 WINTER 2016 Site Transect Quadrat Coordinates PFG Status Origin Species Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Flowering? Mean Std Dev Algaboia Plain 2 3 S 35o57'42.1" E 144o56'21.2" Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata 0.6 0.9 Y 0.5 0.9 Y 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 -35.96169 144.93922 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* 0.4 0.9 0.4 0.9 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Y 0.8 1.2 16.7 26.5 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* 0.1 0.2 Y 0.6 1.3 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* 0.2 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 Y 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa 0.1 0.2 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Juncus sp. Y 17.0 25.9 Y 14.0 29.1 Y 0.5 0.0 0.5 0.0 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Y 4.8 4.1 Y 1.8 1.3 0.2 0.2 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Moss 0.3 0.3 ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Y 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata Y 0.1 0.2 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus 0.5 0.9 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Taraxacum sp.* 0.1 0.2 . . . Unknown dicot 0.8 1.2 . . . Unknown Poaceae 0.1 0.2 Tda . * Veronica peregrina* Y 0.1 0.2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis Y 1.9 1.4 Y 0.3 0.3 Leaf Litter 95.5 0.0 95.5 0.0 94.5 3.2 95.5 0.0 Bare Ground 0.0 0.0 2.6 3.2 2.0 4.8 0.3 0.3 Open Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Water Depth (mm) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

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Appendix 3: List of flora species recorded during the 2015-16 monitoring period, segregated by season observed (including conservation status) (key to codes at end of table) PFG Status Origin Botanical Name Common Name Family Division Spring Summer Autumn Winter No. seasons Tdr . . Acaena novae-zelandiae Bidgee-widgee Rosaceae Dic  1 Sr . . Algae (Green) Filamentous Green Alga Cladophoraceae Alg    3 ATe . . Alisma plantago-aquatica Water Plantain Alismataceae Mon  1 Tdr . * Alopecurus geniculatus* Marsh Fox-tail Poaceae Mon  1 Tda . . Alternanthera denticulata Lesser Joyweed Amaranthaceae Dic     4 Tdr k . Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1) Plains Joyweed Amaranthaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Alternanthera pungens* Khaki Weed Amaranthaceae Dic  1 ATe V . Amphibromus fluitans Swamp Wallaby-grass Poaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Amphibromus nervosus Common Swamp Wallaby-grass Poaceae Mon     4 Tda . * Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis* Pimpernel Primulaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Aphanes australiana Australian Piert Rosaceae Dic  1 Tdr . * Arctotheca calendula* Cape Weed Asteraceae Dic   2 Tda . . Asperula conferta Common Woodruff Rubiaceae Dic   2 Tdr . * Aster subulatus* Aster-weed Asteraceae Dic     4 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia duttoniana Brown-back Wallaby-grass Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . . Austrodanthonia setacea Bristly Wallaby-grass Poaceae Mon     4 Tdr . . Austrostipa scabra Rough Spear-grass Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . * Avena barbata* Bearded Oat Poaceae Mon  1 ARf . . Azolla filiculoides Pacific Azolla Azollaceae Fer     4 Tdr . . Boerhavia dominii Tah-vine Nyctaginaceae Dic    3 Tda . . Brachyscome basaltica Woodland Swamp-daisy Asteraceae Dic   2 Tdr . * Briza minor* Lesser Quaking-grass Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . * Bromus catharticus* Prairie Grass Poaceae Mon   2 Tdr . * Bromus diandrus* Great Brome Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . * Bromus hordeaceus* Soft Brome Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . * Bromus rubens* Red Brome Poaceae Mon  1 ATe v . Cardamine paucijuga Annual Bitter-cress Brassicaceae Dic    3 ATe . . Carex gaudichaudiana Fen Sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4

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PFG Status Origin Botanical Name Common Name Family Division Spring Summer Autumn Winter No. seasons ATe . . Carex gaudichaudiana Fen Sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Carex inversa Common Sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Carex tereticaulis Poong'ort / Teret Culm Sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 Tda . . Centella cordifolia Centella Apiaceae Dic     4 ATl . . Centipeda cunninghamii Common Sneezeweed Asteraceae Dic     4 ATl . . Centipeda minima Spreading Sneezeweed Asteraceae Dic    3 Tda . * Cerastium glomeratum* Common Mouse-ear Chickweed Caryophyllaceae Dic   2 Tdr . # Chamaesyce drummondii Flat Spurge Euphorbiaceae Dic  1 Tdr . . Chenopodium desertorum ssp. microphyllum Small-leaf Goosefoot Chenopodiaceae Dic  1 Tdr . # Chenopodium pumilio Clammy Goosefoot Chenopodiaceae Dic    3 Tdr . * Cirsium vulgare* Spear Thistle Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . * Conyza bonariensis* Tall Fleabane Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda .  Cotula australis Common Cotula Asteraceae Dic   2 Tda . * Cotula bipinnata* Ferny Cotula Asteraceae Dic  1 ARp . . Crassula sieberiana Sieber Crassula Crassulaceae Dic  1 Tdr . * Cucumis myriocarpus* Paddy Melon Cucurbitaceae Dic  1 Tda .  Cynodon dactylon** Couch Poaceae Mon     4 ATe . * Cyperus eragrostis* Drain Flat-sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Cyperus exaltatus Tall Flat-sedge Cyperaceae Mon   2 ATe . . Cyperus sp. Sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 Tdr . * Dittrichia graveolens* Stinkwort Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . . Dysphania glomulifera Globular Pigweed Chenopodiaceae Dic  1 Tdr . * Echium plantagineum* Paterson's Curse Boraginaceae Dic     4 ATl . . Eclipta platyglossa Yellow Twin-heads Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . * Ehrharta erecta* Panic Veldt-grass Poaceae Mon     4 Tdr . . Einadia nutans Nodding Saltbush Chenopodiaceae Dic     4 ARp . . Elatine gratioloides Waterwort Elatinaceae Dic    3 ATe . . Eleocharis acuta Common Spike-sedge Cyperaceae Mon     4 ATl . . Eleocharis pusilla Small Spike-sedge Cyperaceae Mon    3 Tdr . . Elymus scaber Common Wheat-grass Poaceae Mon  1 Tdr . . Enchylaena tomentosa Ruby Saltbush Chenopodiaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Epilobium billardierianum Variable Willow-herb Onagraceae Dic    3 Tda . * Erodium sp.* Heron's-bill Geraniaceae Dic  1 ATw . . Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red-gum Myrtaceae Dic     4 Tda . * Euphorbia peplus* Petty Spurge Euphorbiaceae Dic     4 Tdr . . Exocarpos strictus Pale-fruit Ballart Santalaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Fumaria muralis* Wall Fumitory Fumariaceae Dic   2

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PFG Status Origin Botanical Name Common Name Family Division Spring Summer Autumn Winter No. seasons Tda . * Galium aparine* Cleavers Rubiaceae Dic   2 Tda . . Geranium retrorsum Grassland Cranesbill Geraniaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Glinus oppositifolius Slender Carpet-weed Molluginaceae Dic  1 Tdr . * Heliotropium europaeum* Common Heliotrope Boraginaceae Dic   2 Tdr . * Hordeum leporinum* Barley-grass Poaceae Mon  1 ATl . . Hydrocotyle laxiflora Stinking Pennywort Apiaceae Dic   2 Tdr . * Hypericum perforatum* St John's Wort Clusiaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Hypochaeris glabra* Smooth Cat's-ear Asteraceae Dic  1 Tda . * Hypochaeris radicata* Cat's Ear Asteraceae Dic     4 ATe . . Juncus holoschoenus Joint-leaf Rush Juncaceae Mon   2 ATe . . Juncus ingens Giant Rush Juncaceae Mon     4 Tda . . Juncus sp. Rush Juncaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Lachnagrostis filiformis Common Blown-grass Poaceae Mon     4 Tdr . * Lactuca serriola* Prickly Lettuce Asteraceae Dic    3 ARf . . Landoltia punctata Thin Duckweed Lemnaceae Mon  1 Tda * Leontodon taraxacoides* Hairy Hawkbit Asteraceae Dic  1 Tda . . Lichen Foliose Lichen Parmeliaceae Lic     4 Tda . . Liverwort (Asterella sp.) Star Liverwort Aytoniaceae Liv  1 ATl . . Lobelia concolor Poison Pratia Campanulaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Lolium perenne* Perennial Rye-grass Poaceae Mon    3 ATe . . Ludwigia peploides Clove-strip Onagraceae Dic     4 ATl . . Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife Lythraceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Malva parviflora* Small-flower Mallow Malvaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Marrubium vulgare* Horehound Lamiaceae Dic     4 ARp . . Marsilea costulifera Narrow-leaf Nardoo Marsileaceae Fer    3 ARp . . Marsilea drummondii Common Nardoo Marsileaceae Fer     4 Tdr . * Medicago polymorpha* Burr Medic Fabaceae Dic  1 Tda . . Moss Moss - Mos     4 ARp . . Myriophyllum caput-medusae Coarse Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic   2 ARp . . Myriophyllum crispatum Upright Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic     4 ARp . . Myriophyllum papillosum Robust Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic     4 Sk . . Myriophyllum simulans Amphibious Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Myriophyllum sp. Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Myriophyllum variifolium Varied Water-milfoil Haloragaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Nymphoides crenata Wavy Marshwort Menyanthaceae Dic     4 ARp . . Ottelia ovalifolia subsp. ovalifolia Swamp Lily Hydrocharitaceae Mon  1 Tda . . Oxalis perennans Grassland Wood-sorrel Oxalidaceae Dic     4

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PFG Status Origin Botanical Name Common Name Family Division Spring Summer Autumn Winter No. seasons ATe . # Paspalidium jubiflorum Warrego Summer-grass Poaceae Mon     4 ATe .  Paspalum distichum Water Couch Poaceae Mon   2 Tdr . * Pentaschistis airoides* False Hair-grass Poaceae Mon  1 ATe . . Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed Polygonaceae Dic     4 ATe .  Persicaria hydropiper Water-pepper Polygonaceae Dic     4 ATl . . Persicaria prostrata Creeping Knotweed Polygonaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Petrorhagia dubia* Velvety Pink Caryophyllaceae Dic  1 Tdr . * Phalaris minor* Lesser Canary-grass Poaceae Mon  1 ATe . . Phragmites australis Common Reed Poaceae Mon     4 Tda . * Polycarpon tetraphyllum* Four-leaved Allseed Caryophyllaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Polygonum arenastrum* Wireweed Polygonaceae Dic   2 Tda . . Polygonum plebeium Small Knotweed Polygonaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Potamogeton sulcratus Floating Pondweed Potamogetonaceae Mon   2 Tda . . Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Jersey Cudweed Asteraceae Dic     4 ATe . . Pseudoraphis spinescens Spiny Mud (Moira) Grass Poaceae Mon     4 ATl . . Ranunculus inundatus River Buttercup Ranunculaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Ranunculus lappaceus Australian Buttercup Ranunculaceae Dic  1 Tda . . Ranunculus pumilio Ferny Small-flower Buttercup Ranunculaceae Dic  1 ATe . * Ranunculus sceleratus* Celery Buttercup Ranunculaceae Dic  1 Tda . . Ranunculus sessiliflorus Annual Buttercup Ranunculaceae Dic  1 Sr . . Riccia duplex Floating Crystalwort Ricciaceae Liv     4 ARf . . Ricciocarpos natans Fringed Heartwort Ricciaceae Liv    3 Tda . . Rorippa laciniata Jagged Bitter-cress Brassicaceae Dic   2 Tda . * Rubus anglocandicans* Blackberry Rosaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Rumex brownii Slender Dock Polygonaceae Dic     4 ATe v . Rumex crystallinus Glistening Dock Polygonaceae Dic     4 Tda . . Rumex tenax Narrow-leaf Dock Polygonaceae Dic   2 Tdr . . Salsola tragus Prickly Saltwort Chenopodiaceae Dic  1 Tda . . Senecio minimus Shrubby Fireweed Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . . Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Fireweed Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . . Senecio runcinifolius Tall Fireweed Asteraceae Dic   2 Tda . . Sigesbeckia orientalis Indian Weed Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . * Solanum nigrum* Black Nightshade Solanaceae Dic     4 Tda . * Sonchus asper* Rough Sow-thistle Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . * Sonchus oleraceus* Common Sow-thistle Asteraceae Dic     4 Tda . * Spergularia rubra* Red Sand-spurrey Caryophyllaceae Dic   2 Tda . . Stellaria angustifolia Swamp Starwort Caryophyllaceae Dic     4

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PFG Status Origin Botanical Name Common Name Family Division Spring Summer Autumn Winter No. seasons Tda . . Stellaria caespitosa Matted Starwort Caryophyllaceae Dic     4 Tda . * Taraxacum sp.* Garden Dandelion Asteraceae Dic  1 Tda . . Teucrium racemosum Grey Germander Lamiaceae Dic   2 Tda . * Trifolium arvense* Hare's-foot Clover Fabaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Trifolium campestre* Hop Clover Fabaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Trifolium glomeratum* Cluster Clover Fabaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Trifolium sp.* Clover Fabaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Trifolium suffocatum* Suffocated Clover Fabaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Triglochin procera Water Ribbons Juncaginaceae Mon     4 ATe . . Typha orientalis Broad-leaf Cumbungi Typhaceae Mon     4 . . . Unknown dicot - - Dic  1 . . . Unknown Poaceae - Poaceae Mon    3 Tdr . * Urtica urens* Small Nettle Urticaceae Dic  1 ARp . . Utricularia australis Yellow Bladderwort Lentibulariaceae Dic   2 Tdr . * Verbascum virgatum* Twiggy Mullein Scrophulariaceae Dic  1 Tda k . Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii Native Verbena Verbenaceae Dic     4 Tda . * Veronica peregrina* Wandering Speedwell Scrophulariaceae Dic  1 Tda . * Vicia sativa* Common Vetch Fabaceae Dic   2 Tda . . Vittadinia gracilis Woolly New Holland Daisy Asteraceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Vulpia bromoides* Squirrel-tail Fescue Poaceae Mon   2 Tda . . Wahlenbergia fluminalis River Bluebell Campanulaceae Dic     4 Tdr . * Xanthium spinosum* Bathurst Burr Asteraceae Dic    3 Tda . . Xerochrysum bracteatum Golden Everlasting Asteraceae Dic    3 130 105 86 105

Key to Habit (functional group) codes [from Casanova 2011]: Se Perennial (emergent) Sk Submerged (k-selected) Sr Submerged (r-selected) ARp Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (morphologically plastic) ARf Amphibious: Fluctuation-responders (floating/stranded) ATe Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (emergent) ATl Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (low growing)

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ATw Amphibious: Fluctuation-tolerators (woody) Tda Terrestrial: damp places Tdr Terrestrial: dry places

Key to Status from Walsh & Stajsic (2007) * indicates that the taxon has become naturalised in Victoria. An alien that has spread ‘beyond the possibility of extirpation’ (Mueller, 1853) is considered naturalised. This definition implies free reproduction in well-established populations in restricted areas or throughout the State. For restricted populations, establishment for a minimum of 25 years has been used as a criterion (Tutin et al. 1964) unless obvious seedling recruitment is taking place and the population is persisting or spreading. Casuals (not persisting without fresh introduction) are not included in this category (definition after Kloot 1987).

# indicates that the taxon is both native and naturalised in Victoria. In other words, an indigenous taxon has extended its geographical range of distribution beyond its known or suspected original distributional range.

 indicates that the status of the taxon in Victoria is uncertain. It is uncertain whether all of the populations of the taxon are truly native in Victoria, whether all of the populations are introduced, or whether some of the populations are truly native and some are introduced. In the latter case, in some instances it may well be that the taxonomy of the group is unresolved and that what is treated currently as a single taxon actually represents more than one taxon and that these taxa include both truly native and introduced elements.

V Vulnerable in Australia: not presently Endangered but at risk of disappearing from the wild over a longer period (20 to 50 years) through continued depletion, or which largely occur on sites likely to experience changes in land use that would threaten the survival of the taxon in the wild.

v Vulnerable in Victoria; rare, not presently Endangered but likely to become so soon due to continued depletion; occurring mainly on sites likely to experience changes in land use that would threaten the survival of the plant in the wild; or taxa where total populations are so low that recovery from a local natural disturbance such as drought, landslip or fire is doubtful.

k Vulnerable in Australia, but not definitely known, to belong to one of the categories x, e, v or r within Victoria. At present accurate field distribution information is inadequate.

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Appendix 4: List of flora species recorded during the 2015-16 monitoring period, segregated by Study Site observed (* = exotic species) SPECIES TOTAL BD TI(B) TI(O) LRS TL SP WL RBS BGL DL AP SITES Acaena novae-zelandiae  1 Algae (Green)      5 Alisma plantago-aquatica   2 Alopecurus geniculatus*  1 Alternanthera denticulata            11 Alternanthera nana (A. sp. 1)    3 Alternanthera pungens*  1 Amphibromus fluitans        7 Amphibromus nervosus     4 Anagallis arvensis var. arvensis*         8 Aphanes australiana  1 Arctotheca calendula*      5 Asperula conferta     4 Aster subulatus*      5 Austrodanthonia duttoniana  1 Austrodanthonia setacea     4 Austrostipa scabra    3 Avena barbata*     4 Azolla filiculoides          9 Boerhavia dominii   2 Brachyscome basaltica  1 Briza minor*  1 Bromus catharticus*  1 Bromus diandrus*     4 Bromus hordeaceus*      5 Bromus rubens*    3 Cardamine paucijuga            11 Carex gaudichaudiana  1 Carex inversa         8 Carex tereticaulis           10 Centella cordifolia    3 Centipeda cunninghamii          9 Centipeda minima   2 Cerastium glomeratum*      5 Chamaesyce drummondii  1 continued…

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SPECIES TOTAL BD TI(B) TI(O) LRS TL SP WL RBS BGL DL AP SITES Chenopodium desertorum ssp. microphyllum  1 Chenopodium pumilio        7 Cirsium vulgare*            11 Conyza bonariensis*           10 Cotula australis       6 Cotula bipinnata*    3 Crassula sieberiana   2 Cucumis myriocarpus*  1 Cynodon dactylon**        7 Cyperus eragrostis*      5 Cyperus exaltatus   2 Cyperus sp.      5 Dittrichia graveolens*   2 Dysphania glomulifera  1 Echium plantagineum*        7 Eclipta platyglossa        7 Ehrharta erecta*  1 Einadia nutans       6 Elatine gratioloides       6 Eleocharis acuta          9 Eleocharis pusilla       6 Elymus scaber  1 Enchylaena tomentosa    3 Epilobium billardierianum        7 Erodium sp.*  1 Eucalyptus camaldulensis            11 Euphorbia peplus*    3 Exocarpos strictus  1 Fumaria muralis*   2 Galium aparine*     4 Geranium retrorsum    3 Glinus oppositifolius  1 Heliotropium europaeum*   2 Hordeum leporinum*    3 Hydrocotyle laxiflora  1 Hypericum perforatum*  1 continued…

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SPECIES TOTAL BD TI(B) TI(O) LRS TL SP WL RBS BGL DL AP SITES Hypochaeris glabra*   2 Hypochaeris radicata*          9 Juncus holoschoenus  1 Juncus ingens          9 Juncus sp.            11 Lachnagrostis filiformis            11 Lactuca serriola*          9 Landoltia punctata           10 Leontodon taraxacoides*  1 Lichen            11 Liverwort (Asterella sp.)   2 Lobelia concolor     4 Lolium perenne*        7 Ludwigia peploides          9 Lythrum hyssopifolia    3 Malva parviflora*   2 Marrubium vulgare*      5 Marsilea costulifera    3 Marsilea drummondii  1 Medicago polymorpha*   2 Moss            11 Myriophyllum caput-medusae   2 Myriophyllum crispatum          9 Myriophyllum papillosum           10 Myriophyllum simulans  1 Myriophyllum sp.  1 Myriophyllum variifolium   2 Nymphoides crenata     4 Ottelia ovalifolia subsp. ovalifolia  1 Oxalis perennans        7 Paspalidium jubiflorum          9 Paspalum distichum   2 Pentaschistis airoides*   2 Persicaria decipiens         8 Persicaria hydropiper       6 Persicaria prostrata           10 continued…

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SPECIES TOTAL BD TI(B) TI(O) LRS TL SP WL RBS BGL DL AP SITES Petrorhagia dubia*   2 Phalaris minor*  1 Phragmites australis      5 Polycarpon tetraphyllum*  1 Polygonum arenastrum*   2 Polygonum plebeium  1 Potamogeton sulcratus     4 Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum     4 Pseudoraphis spinescens          9 Ranunculus inundatus            11 Ranunculus lappaceus    3 Ranunculus pumilio       6 Ranunculus sceleratus*  1 Ranunculus sessiliflorus      5 Riccia duplex  1 Ricciocarpos natans      5 Rorippa laciniata     4 Rubus anglocandicans*  1 Rumex brownii       6 Rumex crystallinus           10 Rumex tenax          9 Salsola tragus  1 Senecio minimus     4 Senecio quadridentatus            11 Senecio runcinifolius     4 Sigesbeckia orientalis      5 Solanum nigrum*     4 Sonchus asper*   2 Sonchus oleraceus*            11 Spergularia rubra*    3 Stellaria angustifolia     4 Stellaria caespitosa           10 Taraxacum sp.*  1 Teucrium racemosum   2 Trifolium arvense*   2 Trifolium campestre*  1 continued…

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SPECIES TOTAL BD TI(B) TI(O) LRS TL SP WL RBS BGL DL AP SITES Trifolium glomeratum*   2 Trifolium sp.*      5 Trifolium suffocatum*  1 Triglochin procera            11 Typha orientalis      5 Unknown dicot  1 Unknown Poaceae           10 Urtica urens*   2 Utricularia australis    3 Verbascum virgatum*  1 Verbena officinalis var. gaudichaudii  1 Veronica peregrina*   2 Vicia sativa*   2 Vittadinia gracilis     4 Vulpia bromoides*         8 Wahlenbergia fluminalis           10 Xanthium spinosum*   2 Xerochrysum bracteatum    3 TOTAL SPECIES PER SITE 76 62 81 54 46 53 97 65 71 71 45

Species diversity per site (and % of total species) Ordered species diversity per site (S-L)

Site name No. species % Site name No. species Boals Deadwoods 76 47.2% Algaboia Plain 45 Top Island Burnt Site 62 38.5% Top Lake 46 Top Island Original Site 81 50.3% Steamer Plain 53 Little Rushy Swamp 54 33.5% Little Rushy Swamp 54 Top Lake 46 28.6% Top Island Burnt Site 62 Steamer Plain 53 32.9% Reed Beds Swamp 65 Wathours Lagoon 97 60.2% Black Gate Lagoon 71 Reed Beds Swamp 65 40.4% Duck Lagoon 71 Black Gate Lagoon 71 44.1% Boals Deadwoods 76 Duck Lagoon 71 44.1% Top Island Original Site 81 Algaboia Plain 45 28.0% Wathours Lagoon 97

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Appendix 5: Quadrat photo-points in 2015-16 compared with previous monitored seasons

This year’s seasonal photo-points have been displayed with all previous photo-points of the site so as to better highlight site change over time. The photos are displayed in rows representing financial year, and in columns representing season. Blank cells have been included where photo-points are missing as a result of not being monitored to highlight that they are missing in a comparable way to other sites. The photos have also been deliberately paginated to ensure that all photos from a site can be displayed in landscape orientation when duplex printed and bound.

Page 175 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 1.1 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

Page 178 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 1.2 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

Page 181 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 1.3 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

Page 184 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 2.1 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 20 13 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

Page 186 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

Page 187 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 2.2 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

Page 189 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (12/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

Page 190 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 1: Boals Deadwoods – Quadrat 2.3 SPRING 2006 (05/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (23/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (11/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

Page 191 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2010 (28/11/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (13/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (19/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (02/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (02/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

Page 192 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (22/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

Page 193 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report Site 2: Top Island (Burnt Site) – Quadrat 1.1 SPRING 2006 (15/11/2006) SUMMER 2006/07 (13/01/2007) AUTUMN 2007 (07/04/2007) WINTER 2007 (24/06/2007)

SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (05/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (06/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (10/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (12/06/2010)

Page 194 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2010 (07/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (20/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (16/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (12/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (30/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (11/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (13/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (27/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (03/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (01/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (12/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (15/06/2014)

Page 195 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report

SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

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SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

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SPRING 2007 (20/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (13/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (08/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (08/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (12/06/2016)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (27/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (27/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (05/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (27/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (23/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (16/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (29/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (11/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (10/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (29/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (07/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (12/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (12/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (19/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (04/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (02/02/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (10/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (07/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

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SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

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SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (09/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (16/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (20/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (18/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (08/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (15/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (23/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (07/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (09/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (16/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (20/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (18/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (08/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (15/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (19/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (07/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2007 (21/10/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (06/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (20/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (25/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (18/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (10/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (11/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (14/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (09/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (16/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (20/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (18/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (08/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (15/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (19/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (23/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (09/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (14/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (09/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (28/10/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (14/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (16/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (07/11/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (13/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (14/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (08/11/2014) SUMMER 2014/15 (19/02/2015) AUTUMN 2015 (20/04/2015) WINTER 2015 (15/06/2015)

SPRING 2015 (17/10/2015) SUMMERSUMMER 2015/16 2014/15 (08/01/2016) (19/02/2015) AUTUMNAUTUMN 2016 2015 (08/04/2016) (20/04/2015) WINTERWINTER 2016 2015 (13/06/2016) (15/06/2015)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (not monitored) SUMMER 2007/08 (not monitored AUTUMN 2008 (not monitored WINTER 2008 (not monitored

SPRING 2008 (not monitored) SUMMER 2008/09 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2009 (not monitored) WINTER 2009 (not monitored)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2010 (not monitored) WINTER 2010 (not monitored)

Page 290 of 518 Monitoring understorey vegetation response to flooding in Barmah-Millewa Forest: 2015-16 Final Report SPRING 2010 (13/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (10/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (15/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (04/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (13/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (15/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (01/12/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (18/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (18/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (not monitored) SUMMER 2014/15 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2015 (not monitored) WINTER 2015 (not monitored)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (09/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (09/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (11/06/2016)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (01/11/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (12/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (19/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (28/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (12/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (11/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (12/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (13/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (13/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (15/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (19/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (13/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (10/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (15/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (04/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (13/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (15/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (01/12/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (18/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (18/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (not monitored) SUMMER 2014/15 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2015 (not monitored) WINTER 2015 (not monitored)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (09/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (09/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (11/06/2016)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (01/11/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (12/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (19/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (28/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (12/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (11/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (12/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (13/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (13/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (15/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (19/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (13/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (10/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (15/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (04/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (13/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (15/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (01/12/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (18/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (18/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (not monitored) SUMMER 2014/15 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2015 (not monitored) WINTER 2015 (not monitored)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (09/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (09/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (11/06/2016)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (01/11/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (12/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (19/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (28/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (12/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (11/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (12/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (13/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (13/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (15/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (19/06/2010)

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SPRING 2010 (13/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (10/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (15/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (04/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (13/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (15/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (01/12/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (18/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (18/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (not monitored) SUMMER 2014/15 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2015 (not monitored) WINTER 2015 (not monitored)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (09/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (09/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (11/06/2016)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (not monitored) SUMMER 2007/08 (not monitored AUTUMN 2008 (not monitored WINTER 2008 (not monitored

SPRING 2008 (not monitored) SUMMER 2008/09 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2009 (not monitored) WINTER 2009 (not monitored)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2010 (not monitored) WINTER 2010 (not monitored)

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SPRING 2010 (13/12/2010) SUMMER 2010/11 (09/02/2011) AUTUMN 2011 (10/04/2011) WINTER 2011 (18/06/2011)

SPRING 2011 (25/10/2011) SUMMER 2011/12 (10/01/2012) AUTUMN 2012 (15/04/2012) WINTER 2012 (10/06/2012)

SPRING 2012 (04/11/2012) SUMMER 2012/13 (13/01/2013) AUTUMN 2013 (13/04/2013) WINTER 2013 (15/06/2013)

SPRING 2013 (01/12/2013) SUMMER 2013/14 (31/01/2014) AUTUMN 2014 (18/04/2014) WINTER 2014 (18/06/2014)

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SPRING 2014 (not monitored) SUMMER 2014/15 (not monitored) AUTUMN 2015 (not monitored) WINTER 2015 (not monitored)

SPRING 2015 (24/10/2015) SUMMER 2015/16 (09/01/2016) AUTUMN 2016 (09/04/2016) WINTER 2016 (11/06/2016)

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SPRING 2006 (not monitored) SUMMER 2006/07 (not monitored AUTUMN 2007 (not monitored WINTER 2007 (not monitored

SPRING 2007 (01/11/2007) SUMMER 2007/08 (12/01/2008) AUTUMN 2008 (19/04/2008) WINTER 2008 (28/06/2008)

SPRING 2008 (12/10/2008) SUMMER 2008/09 (11/01/2009) AUTUMN 2009 (12/04/2009) WINTER 2009 (13/06/2009)

SPRING 2009 (not monitored) SUMMER 2009/10 (13/02/2010) AUTUMN 2010 (15/04/2010) WINTER 2010 (19/06/2010)

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