The Link Volunteer Newsletter Issue 76

VOLUNTEER SUPPORT UNIT

VSU WELCOMES JOHN ADAMS Hi My name is John Adams and I am currently working in the Volunteer Support Unit at Keswick. I am a graduate ranger and am currently nine months into my two year rotational placement. My first placement had me based in , were I worked on various projects from the Grassy Woodland rehabilitation at Sand Cave, to restoring habitat for the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo. During these projects I worked with numerous volunteers groups, from international volunteers to local Friends of Parks groups. From these experiences I quickly understood the vast amount of work that volunteers undertake in our Parks and surrounds, and how important they are in conservation works.

I grew up in , and from an early age loved the coastal environment, and was often at the beach either swimming, snorkelling or admiring the unique coastal vegetation. Since then, I completed my degree in Environmental Policy and Management at Adelaide University. From there I have worked at State Flora Nursery and a revegetation consultancy, where I was actively involved in plant propagation and bushland restoration works. During these jobs I developed a keen interest in the unique vegetation of , and enjoyed discovering rare plants.

I enjoy the outdoors and like going camping, and bushwalking through the many trails around the Adelaide Hills and when I’m not outside you will usually find me watching movies. Working as a graduate ranger has allowed me to work in some of the most rugged, beautiful and threatened environments in SA, and I am passionate about preserving these habitats for future generations to enjoy. I look forward to working with more volunteers throughout my career, as I find they are a great source of local knowledge on the environment.

28TH FRIENDS OF PARKS FORUM - NARACOORTE From the 5th to 7th October the Friends of Naracoorte Caves welcomed Friends from across the state to the 28th Friends of Parks Forum. The Friends of Naracoorte Caves delivered a fantastic program, packed with excellent speakers, interesting and informative tours, good food and wine, and great company. The forum was a great success and showcased the wonderful region. The weekend held many highlights, including a tour to the Victoria Fossil Cave, one of the best showcases of the World heritage values of the park. Of the many sites at Naracoorte Caves, the Fossil Chamber in the Victoria Fossil Cave is the most extensively studied. The fossils in the chamber provide a unique window into the climate and environment of the times when these animals lived.

This was followed with a visit to the Bat Observation Centre to watch the fascinating activities of a colony of Southern Bentwinged Bats in their maternity chambers, and a stroll through Blanche Cave, an important bat wintering site.

Blanche Cave Photo by Greg Rossiter

Sunday morning was spent at Bool Lagoon, one of the largest and most diverse freshwater lagoon systems in southern Australia. This seasonal wetland is home to a wide range of wildlife and provides essential drought refuge for many rare and endangered bird species.

Greg Rossiter, of Roxy's Music, provided the sound and visuals at the forum, and can provide a full copy of the photographs, plus audio of the presentations by guest speakers on a disc, for $10.00, including postage. Contact Greg at [email protected], or give him a call on 0414 470 519 if you wold like to place an order. Friends enjoy a walk at Bool Lagoon Photo by Greg Rossiter

DEWNR VOLUNTEER AWARDS Environmental volunteers were awarded for their outstanding contribution on Saturday 6 October at the annual Friends Forum Dinner. The awards recognise individuals and groups working directly with DEWNR on projects which provide long-term environmental benefits and use natural resources sustainably. The award citations were read by Grant Pelton, Director Regional Coordination, Partnerships and Stewardship, and presented by Allan Holmes, Chief Executive, DEWNR.

Outstanding Achievement Award - Individual Contribution:

Arthur Simpson Friends of Burra Parks; Friends of ; Burra Rangeland Action Group; - Mid North District, Northern and Yorke Region. This year’s Outstanding Individual Volunteer Achievement Award was presented to Arthur Simpson for his involvement in the Friends of Burra Parks, the Friends of Heysen Trail, and the Burra Rangeland Action Group. Arthur has been an active member of the Friends of Burra Parks and of the Burra Rangeland Action Group since their inauguration in 2003 and 2011 respectively. He is also a member of Friends of Heysen Trail and has assisted with trail maintenance activities for more than seven years. Furthermore, Arthur participated in the restoration the Tooralie Gorge Shepherds Hut and the heritage listed Coach House at Bimbowrie Conservation Park, where he has undertaken the role of volunteer caretaker. Arthur Simpson accepts his award from Allan Holmes Outstanding Group Volunteer Project Achievement Awards were presented to three groups

The Biodiversity and Endangered Species Team The Biodiversity Blitz is an innovative project developed by the Biodiversity and Endangered Species Team (BEST) in collaboration with DEWNR. For a week in the spring of 2011, 45 volunteers from BEST and other volunteer groups undertook eight high priority projects on Southern Yorke Peninsula.

Friends of Black Hill and Morialta Parks The Friends of Black Hill and Morialta, in partnership with Para Broadcasters Association (PBA FM), and the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management (NRM) Board contributed to the development of 12 radio broadcasts, engaging with a wide audience to communicate the value of conserving South Australia’s parks and reserves. The Wendy Cliff – Senior Ranger - accepts the award on behalf of BEST project embraces new technologies to link radio, website, photographs, CDs and podcasts, to connect people with environmental volunteering initiatives.

Ann Taylor accepts the award for Friends of Black Hill and Morialta from Cultana Jenkins Shack Owners Association Allan Holmes The Cultana Jenkins Shack Owners Association worked in partnership with the Whyalla City Council, NRM Board, Conservation Volunteers SA and local indigenous groups to rationalise vehicle tracks over and around South Australia’s only stranded shingle beach ridges and promote natural regeneration of the surrounding remnant coastal vegetation. South Australia’s shingle ridges have significant indigenous significance, with the belief that they are connected to the Seven Sisters in The Dreaming of local Barngarla people.

The individual winner and the three group awardees each received $1250 Barry Brougham and Nick Kriticos with Allan Holmes to further their conservation efforts.

FRIENDS OF PARKS AWARDS Friends of Parks Incorporated also presented annual awards at the Naracoorte Forum Dinner. David Mitchell, President of Friend of Parks Inc commented that “the selection panel was inspired by the quality of the nominations. A wide diversity of groups was represented and their activities and achievements reflect the strength of our membership and the contribution we make to the stewardship of our parks and reserves. Much of the work is inspirational in its creativity and all of it is founded in a deep and abiding passion for our natural environment.”

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David went on to say that “recognition is an important part of the volunteering process. It’s not why we do the things we do but when our activities are acknowledged and deemed worthy of an award it goes some way towards making it all worthwhile. We acknowledge two of our member groups as well as a departmental officer who has given help and assistance to Friends of Parks over a number of years. We commend all nominees and thank all those who took the time and trouble to nominate them.”

Most Supportive Staff Member - Northern Lofty District Senior Ranger Erik Dahl The Most Supportive Staff Member award recognises an individual who has provided exceptional support to their local Friends Group or groups over a sustained period.

As liaison ranger for the past eighteen years, Erik Dahl has been instrumental in assisting the direction and implementation of effective park stewardship for the Friends of Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park; in that same period he has provided similar support for several other groups in the Northern Lofty District. The ongoing respectful and productive partnership between Erik and Friends highlights the fantastic benefits that can occur with the Friends of Parks Scheme. Erik has a determined but supportive approach and he displays a ready sense of humour and patience when difficult situations occur. Prepared to stick his neck out when it comes to the crunch he has been prepared when required to quietly lobby departmental management to ensure that biodiversity values prevail. Erik is also capable of seeing the bigger picture and has long been a strong advocate of groups working Erik accepts his award from David Mitchell, across the landscape in biodiversity protection and forming productive FOP Inc President relationships to achieve good environmental outcomes. Accordingly Erik Dahl, nominated by the Friends of Kaiserstuhl Conservation Park, was considered by Friends of Parks to be a very experienced, creative and versatile ranger and a worthy winner of the Most Supportive Staff Member award.

Best Biodiversity Project – Biodiversity and Endangered Species Team The Best Biodiversity Project award recognises a Friends of Parks member group that has made an outstanding contribution to biodiversity conservation.

The Biodiversity Blitz was an initiative of the Biodiversity and Endangered Species Team to undertake strategic biodiversity projects within a short time frame. Over a seven day period in spring 2011, forty five volunteers from BEST came together with other volunteer groups to undertake eight high priority biodiversity projects on southern Yorke Peninsula. The activities ranged from beach bird surveys, weed control and built heritage conservation, to an indigenous cultural awareness workshop and monitoring of the reintroduced Tammar Wallaby. As an example of collaborative and varied stewardship this project has established something of a benchmark and is a model that could be replicated to advantage in other parts of the state. Nominated by volunteer support ranger Cristina Vicente, the Biodiversity and Endangered Wendy Cliff, Senior Ranger accepts the award Species Team was judged a worthy winner of Best Biodiversity Project 2012 from David Mitchell, on behalf of BEST for the initiative entitled ‘Yorke Peninsula Biodiversity Blitz’.

Friends Group Achievement of the Year (Incorporating the McLaren Shield) – Friends of Mount Gambier Area Parks The Friends Group Achievement of the Year recognises a Friends of Parks group that has excelled in a project or other activity that has contributed significantly to the conservation of our natural and built environment and heritage. The Friends of Mount Gambier Area Parks was judged the worthy winner of the Friends Group Achievement of the Year and recipient of the McLaren Shield. The group has been responsible for a project entitled ‘Bringing Back the Pricklyback’ which is assisting to publicise the plight of the endangered Glenelg Spiny Crayfish. The project combined on-ground works with a strong community awareness raising component. With input and expertise provided by Oisin Sweeney, Habitat Conservation Ecologist, the groups have undertaken a wide range of on-ground works from design through construction to ongoing monitoring and surveys. The project has improved shelter for the Pricklyback, increased awareness of their endangered status, and provided valuable data regarding population trends and dynamics. The Friends of Mount Gambier Area Parks is an outstanding team of volunteers who, through the Pricklyback project, have ensured that the many important messages regarding Spiny Cray conservation have reached a

Ian Mitchiner accepts the award from David much wider and influential audience. Accordingly they are the 2012 winners Mitchell, on behalf of Friends of Mount Gambier of the Friends Group Achievement of the Year. The McLaren Shield also was Area Parks presented with this award.

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GET INVOLVED

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

CLELAND BLITZ Come and spend the day at Cleland Wildlife Park and help us re-vamp our wildlife enclosures and park gardens. It is a great way to get involved, make a difference and meet new people within your community. It’s fun and easy….no experience necessary! A free Sausage Sizzle will be provided with the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our amazing wildlife residents. All volunteers for the morning will also receive free park entry for the afternoon. When: Saturday 27th October 2012 Time: Registration at 8.30am for a 9.00am start, until 1.30pm Where: Cleland Wildlife Park Please wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring along your gardening gloves, secateurs and friends & family. Places are limited and bookings are essential so register your interest early For more information or to register contact Coordinator of Volunteers on 8130 9008 or [email protected].

ADELAIDE DOLPHIN SANCTUARY ACTION GROUP IS LOOKING FOR MORE MEMBERS!!

Members of the ADS Action Group are proactive volunteers that give their time to help monitor and care for the Port River Dolphins and to help make the Port River and Barker Inlet a safer place for them to live. Under the guidance of the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) and in partnership with government and non-government organisations, and other community groups, the ADS Action Group seeks to help with the on ground delivery of the six objectives of the ADS management plan. Their focus is to protect the Dolphins, provide information and education to the community and promote the environmental importance of the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. Some of the projects we are involved at the moment are the ongoing monitoring of the Port River Dolphins, the Port Adelaide Dolphin Day in January and the Spot a Dolphin program. No previous experience is required but medium or long term commitment is needed. If you want to be involved, come along to our next meeting on the 22nd of October. For more information call Cristina Vicente on 8240 0193, or email [email protected].

VOLUNTEERS SPRING INTO ACTION ON THE YORKE PENINSULA If you love the beach, then volunteering on the Yorke Peninsula this spring is the place to be! There will be the Hooded Plover biennial count weekend and Marine Debris Surveys. The Biennial Hooded Plover count, which is coordinated by BirdLife Australia will be taking place this year on November 10 - 11. This year the Northern and Yorke team at DEWNR will be expanding on the Marine Debris Survey Program, established by Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM. They will be adding ten new sites to the Yorke Peninsula, focussing on the west coast, and the northern part of the foot. They will be adding ten new survey sites to the program and need your help! All debris over a 1km section of beach is collected, sorted, weighed and recorded. Even the bar codes can give valuable information on the origin of the litter. This information will be used for future management of our marine and coastal systems. If you would like to get involved in any of these upcoming projects, or would like more information, please contact Deborah Furbank, DEWNR Community Liaison Officer on 8854 3208 or email [email protected] .

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT VOLUNTEERS - CLELAND WILDLIFE PARK Animal Management volunteers work closely with the keeper staff at Cleland Wildlife Park helping with the care and husbandry of our captive native wildlife population. While there is no direct handling of the animals, volunteering at Cleland can be a worthwhile and rewarding experience. Some of the tasks you may be involved in include food preparation and cleaning of the food preparation area, cleaning exhibits and enclosures and creating behavioural and environmental enrichment tools. Volunteers at Cleland Wildlife Park are rostered on for an allocated day a minimum of 2 days per month. For more information contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Cleland Wildlife Park on 8130 9008 or [email protected].

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WANTED… CAMPGROUND HOSTS! Campground hosts (CGH) are people with a sense of adventure who enjoy the outdoors. They volunteer their time to support DEWNR staff to carry out a variety of tasks associated with visitor management in national park campgrounds throughout South Australia. They are often the first, and sometimes the only, contact between the parks visitors and the Department, their main role is to assist in meeting and greeting campers, helping them to settle in and enjoy their park experience. The role requires friendly people with good communication skills who enjoy meeting and talking with people from all walks of life. Hosts generally have good levels of health and fitness. The program is ideal for people of all ages, including university graduates, retirees, grey nomads, young families, couples, friends or individuals who love camping in the bush. The next CGH training event is scheduled for November 20-21 at . Do you know anyone who may be interested? It could suit your family, friends, or maybe even you? To find out more, contact Lynn Newman on 8124 4841 or email [email protected].

FOOD BAG PRODUCTION VOLUNTEERS - CLELAND WILDLIFE PARK Ongoing Assist with the production and bagging of food pellets. These bags are provided to park visitors to hand feed animals throughout the park. Any relevant training will be provided to ensure that you are able to complete your voluntary work safely and confidently. Food bag production volunteers are rostered on for a minimum of one shift per month. For more information contact the Volunteer Coordinator, on 8130 9008 or [email protected].

GETTING SOCIAL WITH GIDGEES Gidgee skinks (Egernia stokesii) are unusual for a lizard – they are one of only 5% of lizard species that live in social groups. They live for a long time (25 years or more), setting up home in rocky crevices across semiarid Australia. Within these crevices they form stable family groups made up of parents and several generations of offspring. When: Sep-Dec 2012, and Jan-Mar 2013 (various dates, minimum period 1 week) Where: Flinders Ranges, SA. Additional sites are expected to be developed on the Eyre Peninsula, around the Gawler Ranges. What you’ll be doing: Assist with trapping, measuring and marking gidgees (no experience needed) What to bring: Accommodation and transport provided, but you will need to bring food and drink supplies. Contact: Sarah Pearson [email protected] 0427 025 818.

GROW SEEDLINGS TO HELP SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S ENVIRONMENT Trees For Life is looking for volunteers to grow native seedlings this summer.

Through the award-winning Tree Scheme, volunteers are asked to grow and care for the seedlings for landholders and revegetation projects in South Australia. The Tree Scheme operates by annual seedling orders being taken for landholders, councils, government projects and private enterprise, with Trees for Life then linking up orders with volunteer growers.

Trees For Life provides all the propagation materials – seed varieties, tubes, boxes, soil and mulch – free to volunteers, along with easy-to-follow instructions; Once sown and raised, seedlings are handed over for planting in the winter months. The seedlings provide food and habitat for our native wildlife, help counteract some of South Australia’s Greenhouse gas emissions and help rehabilitate land that has been degraded.

Volunteers don’t need to have a green thumb – it’s free and it’s a feel-good experience! People interested in becoming a volunteer grower can phone the Trees For Life office on 8406 0500 or visit their website www.treesforlife.org.au.

THE GREAT KOALA COUNT Your help is needed for the Great Koala Count on Wednesday 28 November 2012 . They are an iconic Australian animal, but just how much do we know about koalas in South Australia? With numbers in serious decline in the eastern states, it's timely that we find out how well our local populations are and where they reside. This year 891 ABC Adelaide and the Barbara Hardy Institute at the University of South Australia will be joining forces with many different groups and organisations to get an idea of how well our furry friends are coping in the state.

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In the lead up to the event, Chris Daniels, Philip Roetman, and a variety of other guests will bring you fascinating facts on the animal that is now endangered through most of the country and was once under threat of a cull in our home state. For more information, visit www.abc.net.au/adelaide/operation.

THIRD BIRD ATLAS OF THE ADELAIDE REGION SA Birds are looking for assistance. In 1974-5, and 1984-5, SA Birds documented the distribution of birds in the Adelaide region. It has been almost 30 years since any concerted bird surveys have been done and there will have been changes to the distribution of the previously documented bird species. The “Adelaide region” covers an area of about 27,000 km2 and runs from north of Port Wakefield to the other side of Morgan and from Cape Jervis to south-east of Meningie. Moreover, this time the Atlas will take in surveys from . The surveys began on 1 July 2012 and will continue for the next two years. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced or inexperienced bird watcher, if you would like to be involved, please contact David Paton at [email protected].

EVENTS

FRIENDS OF BELAIR NATIONAL PARK – ‘SIR JOHN CLELAND MEMORIAL WALK’ Join the Friends of Belair National Park for their FREE annual Sir John Cleland Memorial Walk. Participants (including well behaved dogs on leads) need to have a reasonable level of fitness. BYO hat, sunscreen, water and snacks. Where: Meet at the Belair National Park Pavilion at Government Farm Oval 2 for a 2-2.5 hours walk When: Sunday 14th October meeting at 9.45am for a 10am start. Contact: Jenny on 8278 8986 or email [email protected] for more information.

GLENTHORNE FARM - WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU? Friends of Glenthorne Inc invites your participation in a Community Forum at Club Marion, Sturt Road (opposite the Marion Council Chambers) When: Wednesday October 17 2012 - 6.30 -8.30pm Meet and hear … ˜ Pam Smith (Archaeology Department, Flinders University) ˜ Tim Simpson (Urban Architect) ˜ Jeremy Smith (Biodiversity Officer, City of Marion) who will discuss preserving heritage and maintaining open space within urban sprawl. This will be an excellent opportunity to increase your knowledge of Glenthorne Farm, its significant history, value and its future. Static displays from 6:30pm prior to commencement at 7pm. Light supper provided. Friends of Glenthorne Inc, founded in 1998 is a not for profit organisation of community volunteers who meet monthly for activities that assist the preservation of Glenthorne Farms’ natural and heritage assets. Forum funded through a City of Marion Environmental Grant. For more information contact Peter Smytherman 85370506 or Alan Burns 83405509, 0411 595 910.

NATIVE ORCHID PRESENTATION Come along to this presentation by Robert Lawrence, author of the new book Start with the Leaves: A simple guide to common orchids and lilies of the Adelaide Hills. Robert’s talk will be suitable for anyone interested in orchids from the complete novice, who would like to know about plants, to landholders, and bushwalkers through to bush carers and professionals completing biological surveys. Where: Willunga Environment Centre, High Street, Willunga When: Thursday 18 October at 7pm. Contact: Willunga Environment Centre on 85564188 or [email protected] Gold coin donation Registrations essential

FRIENDS OF COBBLER CREEK – ‘WALKS IN THE PARK’ Join the Friends of Cobbler Creek for guided 'Walks in the Park', followed by a sausage sizzle and some friendly banter. There will be a number of walks to choose from depending on your fitness and inclination. Where: Cobbler Creek Recreation Park Enter through Gate 11 at the top of the up track on the Grove Way, Golden Grove When: Sunday, 21 October - Walks start at 10.00 a.m. Contact: phone 8251 1088 or mobile 04286 52927 for more information.

WALK FOR NATURE Help Nature Foundation SA raise $30,000 for conservation by taking part in this year’s Walk for Nature. Come along and take part in a 3, 6 or 12km walk along the picturesque Heysen Trail. Your efforts will help to raise funds to conserve, restore and sustainably manage South Australia’s wildlife and environment.

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Where: Bridgewater Oval When: 21 October 2012 - 9.30 am for a 10 am start Register at: www.naturefoundation.org.au/help-nature/walk-for-nature/

SPRING OPEN DAYS AT MARBLE HILL The historic Marble Hill estate will be open for one weekend in October to raise funds for the local environment. Visit the museum and tour the ruins, go on a guided wildlife and wildflower walk and enjoy the natural history displays. When: 20-21 October, 2-5pm Cost: $5 per car Wear: Warm clothes and robust footwear. Sorry – no dogs. Marble Hill is located at 314 Marble Hill Road, Ashton. For more information visit www.marblehill.com.au

FRIENDS OF GULF ST VINCENT COMMUNITY FORUM THE HEALTH OF THE GULF – THREATS AND OPPORTUNITIES For those who have been watching current events over the winter, coastal and marine matters have been in the news in the past months, what with supertrawlers wanting to fish in our state, penguins disappearing and, further afield, many diseased fish off Gladstone Harbour following dredging. On the Adelaide metropolitan coastline, winter storms have caused damage to the dunes and seagrasses. There are so many issues in the Gulf that it can be difficult to distinguish good information from bad. Our speakers (are all authorities in their fields, and will give us their perspectives on some of these important issues. Is it all doom and gloom for our Gulf, or is there good news among the ongoing challenges? The Friends of Gulf St Vincent invite you to come to this Community Forum, to hear about some of the current hot topics for Gulf St Vincent, and, of course, to ask questions! Date: Sunday 28th October 2012 Venue: Port Noarlunga Surf Lifesaving Club Time: Starts 10.45 (Registration from 10.00) Cost: $10 for Friends of Gulf St Vincent Members and concession card holders $15 for everyone else RSVP to Liz McLeay: [email protected] or by phone: 8332 9324

NEW EXHIBITION SHOWCASES INDIGENOUS ART Visit the Santos Museum of Economic Botany to explore the role of art in passing on cultural knowledge among Indigenous people. All of the works selected celebrate the important relationship between Indigenous people, plants and animals. The exhibition includes early works on card collected by Charles P Mountford during the 1948 American Australian Scientific Expedition to Arnhem Land. Also on display are more recent explorations in printmaking from the same communities, where from the 1970s onwards, printmaking has been an important economy. The exhibition complements the permanent collections of the Santos Museum of Economic Botany, which present Indigenous people’s innovations with plant materials and how they apply in our modern lives. Where: Santos Museum of Economic Botany - Adelaide Botanic Garden, North Terrace, Adelaide When: 15 September 2012 - 27 January, 2013. Open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am-4pm

CONTRIBUTE

THREATENED PLANT ACTION GROUP (TPAG) Want to get involved in hands-on work in National Parks and save some threatened plant species? By joining TPAG you will be doing just that. All ages welcome. When: Groups meet at various times during the week and on weekends. For more information visit www.ncssa.asn.au or call TPAG Coordinator Tim Jury on 08 7127 4630.

GRANTS

OFFICE FOR VOLUNTEERS - 2012 VOLUNTEER SUPPORT FUND NOW OPEN! Each year South Australian volunteers dedicate their time and skills to providing valuable services across many sectors. Volunteering is a vital part of our State’s future prosperity. The Volunteer Support Fund provides one-off grants to assist volunteers in community organisations. Individual grants of up to $3,000 are available to not-for-profit community organisations to help provide support for volunteer training and resources. Who can apply: Community based, not-for-profit organisations incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act, 1985 are eligible to apply. How to apply: Applications and application guidelines can be downloaded from the Office for Volunteers website at www.ofv.sa.gov.au/grants or telephone1300 014 712. Applications close: 5pm, Monday 29 October 2012.

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GRANT GURU COMMUNITY WEBSITE Grant Guru Community is Australia’s largest free, searchable listing of nationwide grants and funding programs for community based and not-for-profit organisations. Visit http://community.grantready.com.au to see what is available.

TRAINING

AN INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC FARM MANAGEMENT COURSE This FREE five session course will give a comprehensive introduction to managing your land organically including the principals or organic farming, soil management and fertility, integrated pest management. Case studies from leading organic farmers will share their experiences and the course will finish with a visit to a working organic farm. Place: Victor Harbor Date: October 16 Time: 7.30 – 9.30pm For further information contact Jodie Pain on 8550 3405 or email [email protected].

NEEDLE GRASSES MANAGEMENT FIELD DAY Texas and Chilean Needle Grasses are invasive weeds that can injure grazing animals and are easily spread. This free field day will help you identify these grasses and explain how to manage infestations. Place: Kangarilla or Clarendon area. Date: November 3 Time: 9.30 – 12.30pm Free – morning tea provided. For further information contact Dana Miles on 8550 3404 or email [email protected].

LEARN HOW TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT South Australia's respected environmental organisation, Trees for Life (TFL), offers people from all walks of life the opportunity to help restore and protect our State's native vegetation. Friends of Parks group members can gain hands-on experience through TFL's Bush for Life program (BFL), initially by attending one of the bush regeneration workshops that are held throughout the greater metropolitan area each year. At workshops, participants will learn: ˜ why the bush needs your help ˜ the best strategies for restoring ecological processes ˜ minimal disturbance techniques ˜ how to work safely in the bush ˜ how you can get involved as a Bush For Life volunteer To find out more about getting hands-on experience through BFL call their office on 8406 0500 or check their website http://www.treesforlife.org.au/getinvolved or.

The course is free to the participant as DEWNR has purchased a number of spots for DEWNR Volunteers, but bookings must be made via your Friends Group President or Secretary, to the Volunteer Support Unit. Course dates and venues are as follows: ˜ Thursday 18 October Mt Barker ˜ Tuesday 6 November Brooklyn Park ˜ Saturday 17 November Stirling Dates for 2013 will be published early in the New Year.

FREE WORKSHOPS THROUGH VOLUNTEERING SA & NT To find out more information about Volunteer SA & NT workshops please phone 8221 7177 or email [email protected]

BITS ‘N PIECES

CAPE GANTHEAUME FIRE MANAGEMENT PLAN The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources is pleased to announce the adoption and public release of the Cape Gantheaume Fire Management Plan. The Cape Gantheaume planning area covers the southern and central reserves of Kangaroo Island, including over 32 400 hectares of DEWNR reserves together with participating Heritage Agreements and included Crown land. The plan includes 6 DEWNR reserves: Cape Gantheaume Wilderness Protection Area, and Cape Gantheaume, Seal Bay, Vivonne Bay, Nepean Bay, and Beyeria Conservation Parks. The Cape Gantheaume Fire Management Plan will be used to drive the priorities for fire management activities on these lands over the next 10 years.

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The Fire Management Unit thanks all for their contribution to the planning process. You can view the plan at the following link on the DEWNR Fire Management website www.environment.sa.gov.au/firemanagement/Fire_Management/Fire_planning/Adopted_fire_mgt_plans. The accompanying maps are available from Fire Management Maps: www.environment.sa.gov.au/firemanagement/Fire_Management_Maps.

Please feel free to forward this notification on to your relevant networks as appropriate. Don't hesitate to contact Angi Pestell, A/Senior Fire Management Officer – Planning on 8124 4824 or email [email protected] if you have any queries.

NEW WEBSITE A LINK FOR CONSERVATION GROUPS Conservation groups and people interested in working on biodiversity projects have a new online marketplace to make contact and share information. Developed by the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, the NatureLinks website showcases the conservation work being done by community groups, government agencies and non-government organisations throughout the state. Site visitors can browse groups and projects, making it easier for people to become involved in conservation projects, while environmental organisations and community groups can share information, knowledge and expertise built up over years. There are some fantastic projects under way in South Australia, from Bounceback, the long-running program protecting yellow-footed rock wallabies in the Flinders Ranges, to WildEyre’s restoration of sheoak woodlands on Eyre Peninsula. The program emphasises landscape-scale solutions, with five large nature corridors across the state designed to help species adapt as the weather gets warmer and drier. Visit the NatureLinks website at www.environment.sa.gov.au/naturelinks.

BATS – SURVIVORS IN TODAY’S WORLD Presented by Butterfly Conservation SA, Adelaide’s own batman Terry Reardon will provide a fascinating insight into the habits of South Australian bats and how you can help to conserve them. When: Tuesday November 6 Contact: Secretary, Jan Forrest on 8297 8230 or visit the butterfly gardening website www.butterflygardening.net.au for more information.

WATCHING WILDLIFE AT NIGHT – TRAIL CAMERAS, BAT DETECTING AND SPOTLIGHTING The Mid Torrens Catchment Group is holding a community event on the night of Thursday Nov 8 2012 at Lobethal Bushland Park with Terry Reardon. Where: Lobethal Bushland Park When: Thursday night, November 8, 8 pm to 9:45 pm Contact: William Hannaford, District Officer, Mid Torrens and Upper Onkaparinga, AMLR Region - 8389 5915

FLINDERS RANGES NATIONAL PARK CALENDAR - 2013 The Friends of the Flinders Ranges National Park have produced a beautiful calendar for 2013. The cost is $15.00 (if collected via the Friends of Parks Inc Secretariat at the Keswick Offce - ANR House, Ground Floor, 1 Richmond Road, Keswick), or add $3.00 for postage and handling if you want to receive it direct in the mail. If you wish to order one or more (would make a beautiful Christmas present) please email [email protected] with a cc to Pam Smith.

SA BUTTERFLY ID CHARTS NRM Education in conjunction with Butterfly Conservation SA has produced a number of A3 and A4 charts to assist with easy identification of SA butterflies. Go to nrmeducation.net.au and follow the link ‘to ‘Monitoring Activities’. Here you will find the link to the Butterfly charts, along with charts on plants, birds, frogs, aquatic invertebrates and others.

ECOLOGICAL LITERACY SURVEY Sheryn Pitman, a PhD student working with Professor Chris Daniels at the University of South Australia, is undertaking research into the ecological literacy of the adult population of South Australia. This is vital research. Ecological literacy is one of the most important requirements for a functioning, sustainable society in the 21stCentury and a growing worldwide concern is that increasing ecological illiteracy threatens the capacity of humankind to achieve a sustainable future. The outcomes of this work will contribute to a better understanding of our community ecological knowledge base and to global efforts to make more informed decisions. You are invited to participate in this study of Ecological Literacy by completing a survey, which should take up to 20 minutes. You can find the survey at www.research.net/s/unisa-eco-literacy-survey.

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HOW DOES YOUR BACKYARD GROW? YATES AND JUNIOR LANDCARE LAUNCH KIDS’ ENVIRONMENTAL PHOTO AND VIDEO CHALLENGE Whether it’s a farm, a suburban veggie patch or an apartment balcony herb garden, Yates and Junior Landcare are asking kids around Australia, “How does your backyard grow?” The 2012 Yates Junior Landcare Backyard Challenge is getting kids to answer this question with a short film or series of photos, allowing them to showcase the unique aspects of their local environment. The challenge is a fantastic opportunity for young people to explore their backyards, learn how plants grow, and share what they have learnt with other kids and the wider community. Entries close Friday 16 November 2012. Winners will be announced in the first week of December. Further information is available at: www.juniorlandcarechallenge.com.au.

TOMATO SAUCE CHALLENGE IS BIGGER AND TASTIER IN 2013! Tomato enthusiasts across South Australia are invited to enter the Tomato Sauce Challenge in the lead-up to the 2013 Tomato Festival at the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Entrants for the Tomato Sauce Challenge will be judged by an expert panel and categories include individual adults and school groups Entries opened 3 October 2012 and close 8 February 2013. October is also the perfect time to plant your heirloom tomatoes for the Best in Show competition. They will be looking for the biggest home-grown heirloom tomato and the overall best tasting home-grown tomato. Tomato Festival 2013 will be held from 22 to 24 February 2013 and is a joint event between the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, The Digger’s Club and the Botanic Gardens Restaurant. Winners for both the Tomato Sauce Challenge and the Best in Show Competition will be announced as part of the Tomato Festival. For information about the Tomato Festival, including Tomato Sauce Challenge terms and conditions and registration information, please visit www.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au.

PARKS SA IS ON FACEBOOK Parks SA Facebook page is updated just about every day, and provides information on South Australia’s National Parks. Visit them at www.facebook.com/ParksSA.

IS YOUR GROUP ON FACEBOOK? If your group has a Facebook page, and you would like to promote it, send me your details and I will add a listing of ‘Friends on Facebook’ in the next Link newsletter. [email protected].

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” -William Shakespeare

Disclaimer While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the contents of this publication are factually correct, the Department for Environment, Water and Natural Resources makes no representations and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the contents. Reference to any company, product or service in this publication should not be taken as a Departmental endorsement of the company, product or service.

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