Balls Head Reserve

WAVERTON BUSHLAND REMNANT

TITLE : Balls Head Reserve

INTRODUCTION

Balls Head Reserve is situated on a prominent headland at the tip of the Waverton peninsula. It is bordered by the ocean, Woodleys Marina and the Coal Loader (no longer in use) to the north. The Maritime Museum is situated in bushland on the eastern shoreline of Berrys Bay. The dominant vegetation association is Open Forest (10ag) Angophora costata (Smooth- barked Apple) and Corymbia gummifera (Blackbutt) community with Closed-forest (10ag) on the western facing slope. The entire area is approximately 10.2 hectares. The composition of vegetation is variable in the centre of the Reserve due to the parkland/bushland situation that existed in the past. Exotic and non-indigenous trees and shrubs have been planted along the edges of Balls Head Drive and throughout Balls Head Reserve. These plantings are now surrounded by the mature and regenerating native vegetation.

Weeds are scattered throughout but are particularly found on the edges of the bushland, along the bush tracks and on the western slope where Pittosporum undulatum has flourished. Bush Regeneration activities are carried out by the Councils Bushland Management Team, the Friends of Balls Head Bushcare Group and Contractors. The bushland forms an important link to Waverton Park and the privately owned bushland of HMAS Waterhen.

This Reserve is one of the most highly utilised bushland areas in North Sydney, with wonderful views of the harbour and the city. Tracks are numerous throughout. This factor alone is adding to high weed maintenance activities. Leisure and recreation activities are diverse and wide ranging.

Site History

Balls Head Reserve contains many Aboriginal sites including archaeological deposits/middens, art sites and rock engravings. These Aboriginal cultural sites have been identified and are recognised by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Despite the fact that most ceremonial sites were usually found more inland, it is thought that Balls Head Reserve was a site where men came to perform sacred corroborees to honour their ancestors of the Dreamtime. AWomen and uninitiated youth were not permitted in the area on pain of death @(Latona, 1981). The successive generations of Aboriginal people had a deep respect for the area, living in natural harmony with the environment for many thousands of years.

Named after Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball, Commander of the ship ASupply @ in the First Fleet of 1788, Balls Head was the original foreshore land included in the large Wollstonecraft Estate which remained largely undeveloped at the turn of the 20th century. Much debate did take place in the early part of this century to use the location for commercial and/or residential purposes. Public protests by local citizens, North Sydney Council, Wollstonecraft and Bay Road Progress Associations to the State Government resulted in fourteen acres being declared public open space and recreation in the 1926 with a further four acres added in 1935. In 1931 the Balls Head Beautification Committee was formed and a tree planting program was undertaken to replace native trees destroyed by past clearing and firewood seekers.

Balls Head Reserve contains many European Cultural Sites which are submerged in the rich history of the area. These sites are primarily associated with mid-nineteenth century shipping and can be found along the south-east foreshore of Balls Head Reserve south of the Maritime Museum.

The network of numerous tracks which traverse through the bushland were designed and upgraded with directional signage installed in 1993. The formal crushed sandstone pathway was designed to provide wheelchair access to viewing areas of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House on the western side of Balls Head Reserve. Due to constant use and continual weathering the original track which was installed in 1991 and is scheduled to be resurfaced in the near future.

Contract bush regenerators have worked in Balls Head Reserve since 1980 and continue to regenerate the eastern, western and southern sections of bushland between Balls Head Drive link road and the foreshore area. Works over the years have included major primary, secondary and maintenance weeding practices which continue to this day due to the constant pressures upon this highly utilised land parcel.

The Friends of Balls Head Bushcare Group was formed in 1987 and the dedicated members of this team meet every Thursday. A supervisor from the Bushland Management Team meets with the group every week. The Bushcare Group have been involved in many projects including rehabilitating bushland around an Aboriginal engraving, primary, secondary and maintenance weeding; planting, spraying, erosion control and mulching. The Bushcare Group who have successfully regenerated much of the western side of Balls Head Road aim to meet up with the regeneration activities of the bush regeneration contractors above Berrys Bay north of the Quarantine Depot.

North Sydney Council Bushland Management Team visits each bushland reserve on a weekly rotational basis. Balls Head was regenerated by the Council =s Bushland Management Team for approximately 4 weeks in 1998. Other special programs have been instigated throughout 1998 such as the placement of sandstone for traffic control and erecting temporary fencing to allow for natural regeneration to re-emerge without disturbance in high traffic areas. These activities are an addition to the four weeks spent on bush regeneration at Balls Head Reserve.

BACKGROUND Reserve Summary

Area of Reserve 102 090 m 2

Level of Degradation:

<10% 76 303 m 2

10-30% 13 732 m 2

31-60% NIL

>60% 12 055 m 2

Length of Boundaries 3 988 m

No. of Properties Adjoining Bushland 2

Length of walking tracks 2 991 m

1.0 FLORA

Refer to Map 1 - Vegetation Communities for location details.

Balls Head Reserve consists of 3 remnant vegetation communities which are part of the Sydney Sandstone Complex - Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (10ag) as indicated by Benson and Howell, 1994. The vegetation is symbolic of the North Shore and consists of areas of Open Forest/Woodland on the eastern facing slope with a Kunzea ambigua (Tick bush) dominated zone upon the shallow soils to the north and Closed Forest on the western facing slope.

1. Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Corymbia gummifera (Blackbutt) Open Forest/Woodland on the eastern facing slope of the Reserve with an understorey of Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) , Grevillea linearifolia (White Spider Flower) and Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) .

2. A Low Closed Forest dominated by Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) with stunted emergent trees such as Eucalyptus punctata (Grey Gum) and Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She Oak) found on shallow soils high on the western slope. The understorey is dominated by Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern).

3. Ficus rubignosa (Port Jackson Fig) and Pittosporum undulatum Closed Forest on the lower western facing slope with an understorey of Notolaea longifolia (Mock Olive) , Poa affinis and various native fern species.

Nearby Parks and Verges containing Remnant Vegetation

Waverton Peninsula

It has been proposed in the Waverton Peninsula Masterplan that sections of native bushland will be rehabilitated and reinstated along the ridgetop zone above Berrys Bay. The creation of this corridor will provide an important link from Balls Head Reserve to Waverton Park. Native canopy species may include Banksia integrifolia (Coast Banksia) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple). Low growing native species will also be planted along part of the foreshore zone.

For further information see: Waverton Peninsula Masterplan

Waverton Park

Waverton Park was dedicated to North Sydney Council by the Government in the 1940's. The Waverton Progress Association and a petition signed by 250 local residents were the driving force behind this area being saved from urban development. The area provided for recreational and open space needs and considerable improvements were made over a period of years after the war.

Waverton Park contains a few remnant canopy species including areas of Open Forest/Woodland dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Closed Forest dominated by Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree). Weed trees are numerous in both areas and include species such as Camphor laurel

(Cinnamomum camphora) , Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) , Small Leaf Privet (Ligustrum sinense) and Pittosporum undulatum . The understorey is mostly degraded in both communities. The most common weed species here are Asparagus Fern (Protoasparagus aethiopicus) , Wandering Jew (Tradescantia albiflora) and seedlings of weed canopy species.

For further information see: Appendices 4 - Table 1: Classification information on vegetation communities. Section 3 - Native plant species list for Balls Head Reserve.

1.1 Marine Plant Life

The perimeter of Balls Head Reserve has a marine influence. There are stretches of sandy beach in amongst the scattered areas of exposed sandstone and cliffs of the foreshore on the eastern side. The diversity and abundance of plant species found along the beach edge are low. On the western side the foreshore has a sharp distinction - where bushland meets the sea.

The waters surrounding Balls Head Reserve are part of a large Intertidal Protection Area (IPA) for Sydney Harbour.

For further information see: The Department of Fisheries, Wollstonecraft.

1.2 Weed Assessment

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of Weed Zones for Balls Head Reserve.

The majority of weed species invading Balls Head Reserve are annual weeds and lawn grasses from the BBQ areas. Many of the canopy and midstorey weed species such as Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum), Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and Lantana (Lantana camara) were removed many years ago. Pittosporum undulatum is successfully colonising the lower western facing slopes of the Reserve. A few of these trees have been incrementally injected to allow other native species to emerge however the slope is quite steep and this is a risk to the safety of the bush regeneration staff. Alternative ways to reach these areas are being explored.

The most common annual weed species include Annual Velt Grass ( Ehrharta longiflora ), Quaking grass ( Briza sp. ), Cobblers Pegs (Bidens pilosa) , Paddys Lucerne (Sida rhombifolia) and Fleabane sp. (Conyza sp.). Other common weed species found in the understorey include Wandering Jew (Tradescantia albiflora) , Asparagus Fern (Protoasparagus aethiopicus) and Mickey Mouse Plant (Ochna serrulata ).

For further information see: Appendices 4 - Table 2: Weed assessment details. Section 4 - Weed species list for North Sydney.

1.3 Vulnerable and Threatened Species

There are no known vulnerable or threatened flora species in Balls Head Reserve as outlined in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

1.4 Locally Rare Species

Locally rare species include Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo) , Desmodium rhytidophylum,Calochilus gracilimus (Late Beard Orchid) and Liparis reflexa (Yellow Rock Orchid).

For further information see: Appendices 4 - Table 3: Locally rare species. Section 7 for the status of each locally rare species in North Sydney.

2.0 FAUNA

2.1 Terrestrial Vertebrates

Both Brush-tail and Ring-tail Possums inhabit Balls Head Reserve. Possums are nocturnal and the main fatalities of this species is caused by the introduced Red Fox (usually a night hunter) and evening traffic through the area. During 1997 evidence was recorded of possums that had been hit by cars in the Reserve.

It has been witnessed that people are trapping and releasing Possums into Balls Head Reserve. To trap a Possum it is necessary to first obtain a licence from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and it cannot be released further than 50m from the original dwelling where it was captured. The reasons for this and the advisable alternatives are outlined in the Living with Possums booklet prepared by North Sydney Council and can be obtained by contacting the Bushland Management Team on 9936 8224.

An imbalance in bird ecology exists at Balls Head Reserve. Species such as the Noisy Miner and the Pied Currawong are very common throughout the bushland and gardens adjacent to the BBQ areas. These birds are very territorial and attack any other birds which pass through this territory. The reason for the large populations of these two species in particular is due to three main factors:

1. The hybrid Grevillea sp. and other exotic plant species around the BBQ areas that unnaturally flower most months of the year providing a continuous supply of nectar for the Noisy Miners.

2. Feeding the Pied Currawongs and the Noisy Miners. The more these birds are fed, the more solid their populations and territories become, and

3. The high density of Pittosporum undulatum, Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) which the Pied Currawongs feed on and in the process also distribute the seeds of these trees throughout the bushland.

Spotted Pardalotes are often heard in the canopy to the north. These species are important because they nest on the ground by burrowing into steep embankments throughout the area. This makes them extremely vulnerable to ground dwelling predators such as the introduced cat and Red Fox. Other smaller birds find refuge on the lower western side due to the protective understorey eg. Silvereye, White-browed Scrubwren. Welcome Swallows are often

seen swooping above the canopy on the southern edge catching insects.

Channel-billed Cuckoo =s rely on this area for breeding sites and to nourish themselves before they take the long journey back to Papua New Guinea each year.

There is a lack of nesting hollows in the North Sydney area due to the lack of old native trees that tend to bear such hollows. Native birds, arboreal mammals and bats suffer from the lack of safe nesting and roosting sites. These creatures play an important role in the ecology of the vegetation communities of Balls Head Reserve.

For further information see: Section 5 - Fauna of North Sydney. Section 8 - Law and Policy: National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974.

2.2 Other Native Fauna Groups

- Terrestrial invertebrates - Marine vertebrates - Marine invertebrates

A formal survey of the diversity and abundance of the above groups of organisms has never been undertaken by North Sydney Council. More detailed studies are required.

2.3 Introduced and Feral Animals

Tracks, scats and other traces of the Red Fox have been found at Balls Head Reserve. Scattered fur and the remains of possums have been found throughout the bushland.

A feral cat was sighted at Balls Head Reserve in 1997. The cat had no collar and was much larger and more muscular than a domestic cat.

Introduced bird species are occasionally seen on the outer perimeter areas of the Reserve.

For further information see: Section 5 - Fauna of North Sydney: Introduced Species.

2.4 Vulnerable and Threatened Species

There are no known vulnerable or threatened fauna species in Balls Head Reserve as identified in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

2.5 Locally Rare Species

A formal survey on the diversity and population size of all existing fauna species in North Sydney has never been undertaken, therefore it is impossible to ascertain whether a species is rare or not. The precautionary principle is utilised in bush regeneration activities to accommodate this lack of knowledge. Current and ongoing data collection of fauna species exists as a result of the Wildlife Watch Program and sightings made by Council Staff and Contractors. All fauna is protected in North Sydney and it is important to know what exists to assist better management practices.

3.0 BUSHLAND FRAGMENTATION

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of formal and informal tracks of Balls Head Reserve.

The ex-Coal Loader and Caltex Site to the west and the BP Site to the east all border the bushland of Balls Head. All of these sites have been acquired by Council following the closure of these industries or operations in recent years. Bob Carr =s efforts to halt >foreshore development on Sydney Harbour = is best demonstrated by this example. Currently this area is being planned and designed to accommodate North Sydneys current open space needs in the Waverton Peninsula Masterplan.

The Maritime Museum is nestled within Balls Head Reserve on the eastern side.

Balls Head Reserve is a high profile area intensively utilised by the local community as well as the people of Sydney. There are many tracks throughout the bushland parcel which provide access. There is a well defined network of formal tracks (including a disabled access pathway) which are sign-posted. Simple graphic icons state the length of the walk and the grade of difficulty to be expected on each track.

The Balusters Track provides access to the lower southern foreshore bushland area and was upgraded in 1998.

Apart from these tracks there are many other informal tracks. The creation of these informal tracks are damaging important vegetation and increasing the fragmentation of bushland which is a constant source of impact.

To the north the bushland of Balls Head Reserve is separated from other bushland areas by Balls Head Drive. The bushland parcels on both sides of Balls Head Road are important areas that contain mature remnant species. Both of these sites contain areas of lawn which will eventually be replaced by locally indigenous vegetation in varying degrees and stages as a very long-term vision for the area.

3.1 Habitat Corridors

It is envisaged that the Waverton Peninsula Masterplan will allow habitat corridors to be formed on the BP site to connect Balls Head Reserve with Waverton Park.

Movement to and from Balls Head Reserve will be made possible along the North Shore

Railway Line via Waverton Park. At present most of the vegetation is not native, however it provides a safe and continuous haven for animals to travel to adjoining remnant bushland areas such as Brennan Park, Newlands Lane, Bridge End and to the bushland of Smoothey Park.

The corridor areas can be additionally enhanced by underplanting designated street trees with native understorey and encouraging the planting of locally indigenous species in nearby parks and gardens and in the private gardens of adjoining residential areas.

Any informal tracks which lead to the foreshore and are found, over time, to be highly utilised will be considered for upgrade and facilitation.

4.0 FIRE

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for details of fire history.

Four small pile burns were undertaken in 1998 along the eastern track which passes through a section of native grassland. Species to emerge include Acacia longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle), Acacia implexa (Hickory), Commelina cyanea (Scurvey Weed), Polyscias sambucifolia (Elderberry Panax), Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), Microlaena stipoides (Weeping Grass) and Kennedia rubicunda (Dusky Coral Pea). With the combination of bush regeneration practices and the use of fire in an area with low species diversity in the midstorey and where the understorey of native grass was heavily infested with lawn grasses (i.e. couch) the native plant regeneration from these burn piles has been highly successful.

Fire is an essential ecological tool required to sustain the plant communities of Balls Head Reserve bushland. There are several areas throughout Balls Head which require burning for the purposes of maintaining diversity and stimulating the seed of species which have been eliminated by the absence of fire. The areas burnt shall not be intentionally burnt again within the time frames set out in Section 6 of the Bushland Fire Management Policy, 1997.

For further information see: Section 9 - Bushland Fire Management Policy for North Sydney Council.

5.0 URBAN RUNOFF

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of stormwater channels.

Balls Head Reserve is not impacted upon by urban stormwater runoff from the upper catchment. Therefore the spread of weed seeds, increased nutrients and moisture via stormwater is not a threat to this bushland area.

Hard surface runoff from the road surface is contributing to increased moisture and erosion problems throughout the bushland. The water from the road is directed into the bushland by a series of side drains which spill out into the bushland. In other areas water flows from the road and follows impervious sandstone stairways, concrete pathways and areas of compacted soil along the many formal tracks which are highly utilised. The impacts of hard surface runoff on

the surrounding bushland varies from site to site.

6.0 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL SITES

Shell middens consisting mainly of Sydney rock oysters and Sydney cockle shells are found in several locations around Balls Head Reserve. Other sites include rock shelters with Aboriginal art and rock engravings. An engraving of a whale can be seen on the entrance of Balls Head Drive.

All Aboriginal sites are significant and protected in the North Sydney area. All sites require specialist management and there are certain procedures which need to be undertaken in relation to bush regeneration practices, monitoring and maintenance processes. The identification and location of all known and potential Aboriginal sites in Balls Head Reserve have been recorded on a closed access database and an Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for this bushland area will be prepared in 1999 by North Sydney Council =s Aboriginal Heritage Officer.

For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy: Aboriginal Heritage Management. Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for Balls Head Reserve, 1999. Development Control Plan: Heritage and Cultural Resources, 1999.

7.0 EUROPEAN HERITAGE SITES

Balls Head Reserve has been recognised in the North Sydney Heritage Study Review (1993; NSHS1133) as having important historic, aesthetic and scientific significance and providing for the community an area for leisure and environmental awareness.

The following sites are recognised for their representation of early industrialisation on the North Shore and boat building on the waterfront. These sites are listed in the North Sydney Heritage Study Review (1993) as the Balls Head Foreshore Relics Group (NSHS0691-0695).

There are many elements of historic European usage of Balls Head both for functional purposes associated with shipping in Berrys Bay and for recreational purposes. The presence of ringbolts are relics of nineteenth century ship mooring technology and the windless spindle is an archaeological relic which provides evidence of usage of the Bay. Both of these relics can be seen on the eastern foreshore of Balls Head Reserve.

This area of Berrys Bay had a continuous usage for shipping since the erection of a wharf and store by Berry and Wollstonecraft in the 1830's. This facility was leased from the 1850's and occupied by NSW Torpedo Corps. Woodleys = Shipyard was established nearby circa 1906 and the Quarantine Boat Depot and the Oil Company Depot were built shortly afterwards.

A harbour pool existed from the establishment of Balls Head Recreation Reserve in the 1930's until the late 1970's when harbour pollution and the cost of insurance saw the pool closed and the enclosure removed. During this time two short sets of steps were cut into a rock outcrop and a longer set of steps, both carved from rock and built up using stone blocks and concrete to mark the entrance to the pool were created. Post holes and occasional remnants of iron

fixings can also be seen along the edge of the steps.

The social and historic significance of Balls Head Reserve is strengthened by the presence of shelters which were built during the great 1930's depression. Council has reconstructed some of these features however others have been vandalised and original structures have been destroyed eg. the fireplace in >Tom =s Cabin =. The original construction of walks and steps throughout the bushland also occurred at this time. In more recent years metal hand rails were installed to blend with the existing stone structures along ceratin tracks and viewing areas for safety reasons.

For further information see: North Sydney Heritage Study Review, 1993: Stanton Library. North Sydney Council Heritage Inventory Database: Stanton Library.

8.0 RESERVE USERS

The formal crushed sandstone pathway extends from the BBQ area on the southern side allowing for wheelchair access to several of the stunning viewing points of the city from Balls Head Reserve. This sandstone pathway was designed and installed in 1991.

The wide network of formal tracks providing access to numerous locations throughout the bushland Reserve was created in 1993. Directional signage was also installed to inform and educate reserve users of the length and grade of the track by use of simple icons.

The Balusters Track provides formal access along the lower southern foreshore area of Balls Head Reserve. The track was upgraded in 1998 to limit the continuing erosion on the vulnerable slopes and still provide for people wishing to explore the area. The Balusters Track provides access to >the fishing rock = which is a very popular location for fishermen. Rock climbers also utilise the track to access large rock overhangs along the foreshore.

It is commonly observed that there are a number of frequent reserve users. The community utilises Balls Head Reserve for many varied reasons including:

- Walking/dog exercise, - Jogging, - Bike riding, - School and University groups, - Adventure groups, - Art: painting, photography etc., - Boat storage, - BBQ =s, picnics and parties, - Rock climbing activities (unsolicited), and - Fishermen. For further information see: Appendices 4 - Table 4: Boat storage sites.

The close proximity of Balls Head Reserve to Waverton train station makes the bushland reserve accessible to people all over Sydney. Car parking is also available within Balls Head Reserve. It is a future vision to link the walkway from Smoothey Park to Berry Island, through

Kerosene Bay, Oyster Cove and Bridge End, continuing around the foreshore area joining up with Balls Head Reserve. Eventually a foreshore walk will exist from Wollstonecraft train station through to Waverton train station.

8.1 Vandalism and Misuse

Seabirds and fishing birds that visit the foreshore areas are at risk of being injured from discarded fishing waste eg. knotted fishing line, hooks etc. A Little Black Cormorant was recently rescued by a resident of Waverton from the foreshore area with a fishing hook wedged into its neck. Unwanted catches are often left on the foreshore to perish eg. eels, starfish etc.

Several Ring-tailed Possums and a Brush-tailed Possum have been hit by vehicles in the reserve over the last two years. It is assumed this occurred during the night as these animals are nocturnal. Blue-tongue Lizards are sometimes found run over on the road that circles Balls Head Reserve in the cooler months of the year.

This Reserve is a sanctuary for the native animals which survive here. All fauna is protected.

Branches have been broken from native trees and shrubs in the Reserve for scattered fires which are lit during the night in various places throughout the Reserve. The remnants of these fires are commonly witnessed by the Bushland Management Team following a weekend period.

>Tom =s Cabin = is a historic feature of Balls Head Reserve. This cabin has been vandalised in the past few years.

Photographic evidence is currently being compiled of all forms of vandalism and misuse at Balls Head Reserve. Data is also being collected on the incidence of native fauna being hit by vehicles. This information will be presented in a formal report containing options for alternative management practice.

For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy.

9.0 EXISTING PROPERTIES ADJOINING BUSHLAND

There are no residential properties directly adjoining the bushland of Balls Head Reserve. The Maritime Museum is found amongst the bushland on the eastern side of the Reserve and to the north of this Depot is Woodleys Marina which joins up with the northern end of Balls Head Road. In the past the Coal Loader site and the BP Oil terminal were also adjoining properties, however, this land has now been acquired to provide increased open space for the people of Sydney.

9.3 Dumping

It is relatively uncommon that household rubbish and garden refuse is dumped into the bushland but it has been witnessed in the past. Most dumped loads have arrived by vehicular transport. This is due to free accessibility to the area during the night. Recent events include the dumping of hay bales from construction sites and selected items of old household furniture.

For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy: Local Government Act, 1919.

9.4 Pets

Balls Head is a popular area for pet exercise. Dogs are frequently observed along Balls Head Drive and throughout the bushland.

For further information see : Section 8 - Law and Policy: Companion Animals Act, 1999 and Councils Policy on Dog Control in North Sydney.

10.0 ACTION PLAN

10.1 Rehabilitation Works Detailed information and the location of rehabilitation works to be carried out over the lifespan of this document in each bushland area. Each bushland reserve is divided into smaller Zones to provide a more detailed vision for each different location. The rehabilitation works are then given a priority rating.

10.2 Management Strategies and other Programs These additional documents are required to assist a successful rehabilitation process.

10.0 ACTION PLAN

10.1 Rehabilitation Works

Priority

The priority ratings given to each Action in the matrix are subject to the availability of staff, funding and existing ideologies at the time of creation. For these reasons modification of priorities may occur as special circumstances arise.

ST (Short Term) Action completed within 2 years.

MT (Medium Term) Action completed within 2-4 years.

LT (Long Term) Action commenced after 4 years.

O (Ongoing) Action is carried out on a regular basis for the life of this action plan.

C (Commenced) Action has commenced.

CP (Completed) Action has been carried out.

Identification numbers eg. 1A, 1B etc. shown in the Issues column of the Action Plan relate to the corresponding map for that Zone and the actions required.

NOTE: The Rehabilitation Plan is designed to be relevant for a five year period and to be extensively reviewed and updated at the end of this time.

OBJECTIVES

Balls Head Reserve

- To conserve and restore the remnant indigenous plant communities of the area,

- To rehabilitate disturbed bushland edges to reflect the floristic and structural diversity of former vegetation communities ,

- To conserve locally rare flora and promote biodiversity,

- To control and reduce the spread of weeds throughout the bushland ,

- To provide native habitat for the local indigenous fauna,

- To protect and conserve areas of Aboriginal Heritage,

- To minimise the incidence and effects of informal tracks throughout the bushland, and

- To provide for responsible high level of reserve use whilst protecting remnant bushland.

ZONE 1

Remnant Open Forest vegetation containing a canopy of Ficus rubignosa (Port Jackson Fig), Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree)and a midstorey of Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She Oak). Large sections of this zone are regenerated and rehabilitated by the Friends of Balls Head Bushcare Group. Areas of lawn and open space are situated adjacent to this zone.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Vegetation Weed species emerging in the understorey of Biannual sweep of bushland containing less than 10% C/O Biannual maintenance of seasonal weed invasion is Management remnant and regenerating bushland. weed growth. Maintenance of understorey seasonal undertaken and new weed growth is adequately weed invasions and those spread by passing birds. suppressed.

1A Morning Glory and Balloon Vine moving into Cut vines from canopy trees, scrape and paint with Bi- C/O Vines are removed from canopy, lower sections are the canopy. Active Roundup* (or similar with low surfactant) on controlled and continually suppressed. lower sections and suppress any new growth.

1B Follow-up after primary weed removal on Continue secondary weed removal. C/O Secondary weeding has been undertaken and weed Bushcare Site. invasions have been adequately suppressed.

1C Weed invasion from the edge of Balls Head Maintain edge and control successive weed invasions C/O The edge is adequately regenerated and maintained. Drive and encourage native plant regeneration.

1D Native trees with an understorey of lawn. Underplant selected native tree species with native LT Native tree species are underplanted, linked (where shrubs and groundcovers. Form an understorey and possible) and adequately maintained. midstorey link between native species which are in close proximity to one another.

1E Small patches of remnant bushland under threat Consolidate the area by removing understorey and MT The area is regularly and adequately maintained and from weed invasion and the spread of lawn grass midstorey weed species. Maintain the area four times new weed growth and weed invasions are suppressed. species. per year.

1F Native vegetation surrounding Aboriginal rock Consolidate the area by removing understorey and ST The area has been regenerated to represent the engraving at the entrance to Balls Head Reserve midstorey weed species. Native indigenous species remnant vegetation community and is regularly is under threat from weed invasion. Lawn grass should be encouraged for added site protection and maintained. is invading the understorey. soil stabilisation.

NOTE: Water which pools on the surface of the engraving following rain periods requires drainage as this is considerably damaging the regionally significant rock engraving.

1G Open area of lawn with magnificent harbour To enhance this area and provide shade four native LT Canopy trees have been planted and are adequately views. trees will be planted to frame the views of the maintained. harbour. Suggested species include: Corymbia gummifera (Red Bloodwood), Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), Eucalyptus botryoides

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator (Bangalay). When these trees have established themselves (5-8 yrs) (stage 1) a native understorey and midstorey will be added beneath the established trees to blend in with the surrounding bushland (stage 2). Maintain existing views and provide seating where appropriate.

ZONE 2

Remnant Open Forest dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt). Planted Acacia elata (Mountain Cedar Wattle) trees are numerous throughout. Other planted tree species not locally indigenous to the North Shore are also found in this zone.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Vegetation Remnant bushland containing less than 10% Biannual sweep through the areas of good bush C/O New weed growth in areas of remnant bushland Management weed species under threat from further weed removing new weed growth especially along the containing less than 10% weed species has been species emerging throughout. perimeter adjacent to the access road and where removed and adequately maintained. formal tracks enter the bushland zone.

NOTE: Turbation of the soil (soil disturbance) would be beneficial for aeration, bringing to the surface native seed and for the stimulation of bacteria and fungi in the soil. This should be practised away from the edges of this zone whenever removing scattered weed

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator species in effort to stimulate native plant growth.

Pittosporum undulatum scattered throughout the Remove mature Pittosporum undulatum that are ST Selective removal of Pittosporum undulatum has midstorey and understorey. shading out native species and remove young been completed, piles have been created and the area germinating seedlings. Stack woody material into is adequately maintained. Interpretive signage has piles. been planned and organised.

Burn piles to stimulate native seed stored in the soil. MT Piles have been burnt and the area is maintained. Provide interpretive signage informing reserve users Interpretive signage is in place. Native seedlings are of the processes involved and the benefits of these growing with little competition from weed species. processes for Balls Head Reserve in the long-term.

Vegetation Canopy trees along the edges of the access road Monitor trees and foresee possible dangerous O Trees along perimeter of access road are healthy and Management are being damaged by trucks which frequent the situations (for the tree). Organise to have limbs well maintained to prevent foreseeable damage. 2A area. lopped if such a situation should arise.

NOTE: A sign (at a point in the road where the trucks can turn around) showing permissible length and height of trucks allowed into the area should be evaluated. Also location maps of other industries in the area. People are frequently in need of directions.

Planted non-indigenous species throughout the Allow the mature trees to naturally die out. Suppress C/O New growth of horticultural and non-indigenous remnant bushland eg. Lemon-scented Gum any new growth of these species throughout the species is adequately suppressed. (Eucalyptus citriodora ) and Mountain Cedar remnant bushland. Wattle ( Acacia elata ).

2B Lawn grasses at the lookout located at the Form a natural edge to the lawn area, remove any ST/O Lawn grasses have been removed and an appropriate entrance to Balls Head Reserve is invading the invading grass species from the bushland and edge has been formed and maintained. adjacent bushland. Lawn is also invading the maintain. Maintain native grassland in front of car regenerating bushland area around the Public park. Toilets and areas adjacent to the Car Park.

Three specimens of Calochilus gracilimus (Late This could be due to changes in light conditions (by MT Research the necessary steps that need to be taken to Beard Orchid) were seen in 1996 and have not other plants germinating close to the orchid area or reverse the suggested conditions contributing to the been witnessed in the last two years. overshadowing from the canopy), thickness of leaf non-emergence of the Calochilus gracilimus (Late litter on forest floor and/or undesirable weather Beard Orchid). conditions.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Fauna One Rosella and one Ring-tail Possum nesting Seasonally monitor the nesting boxes to identify what C/O Nesting boxes are seasonally monitored and box erected in this zone in 1998. species are utilising them and to ensure feral animals adequately maintained. 2C have not moved in. They will also be checked annually for bees throughout spring (bee swarming season) and to ensure that the box is not causing damage to the host tree. (See Nesting Box Installation Form).

Reserve Users Formal and informal tracks scattered throughout Define all formal tracks and discourage informal ST/O All formal tracks are well defined and all informal the remnant bushland. tracks by brush matting or roping off areas. Install tracks are discouraged as they emerge. Information temporary signage: >Bush Regeneration Area - Please has been made available to the public. keep to the track =.

The tracks which have historical sandstone steps will be maintained as part of the formal track system.

NOTE: Erect sign in the Balls Head Reserve car park showing all formal tracks designed and maintained for reserve users. Entrances to the bushland from the access road need to be well defined.

ZONE 3

Remnant Open Forest/Woodland dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt). Many tree species not indigenous to the North Shore are also planted throughout this zone.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Vegetation Weed species emerging in the understorey of Biannual sweep of bushland containing lees than 10% C/O Biannual maintenance of seasonal weed invasion is Management remnant and regenerating bushland. weed germination. Maintenance of understorey undertaken and new weed growth is adequately 3A seasonal weed invasions and those spread by passing suppressed. birds.

Weed species germinating along the edges of the Maintain the edges of the bushland and remove any C/O Weeds species are controlled from invading the bushland especially Ehrharta sp. germinating weed species. bushland and the area is adequately maintained.

3B Hybrid Grevillea sp. planted around the BBQ Remove hybrid Grevillea sp. ST Hybrid Grevillea sp. have been removed. area. Provides abundant supply of nectar to Noisy Miners who are becoming increasingly territorial in the bushland.

3C Lawn grass is invading the native bushland from Plan, design and plant a >Native Bush Food Garden = LT A Native Bush Food Garden has been planned the BBQ area. around the perimeter of the BBQ area using locally designed and planted in the BBQ area. Appropriate indigenous plant species and provide interpretive interpretive signage has been installed. signage. Create appropriate border between lawn grasses and the native garden.

Locally rare species Desmodium rhytidophylum Collect seed of Desmodium rhytidophylum for the MT Desmodium rhytidophylum seed has been collected, have been reduced to a few scattered specimens. North Sydney Seed Bank and propagate these species propagated and planted into regenerating areas of when required. Plant in appropriate areas that are Balls Head Reserve bushland where appropriate and being regenerated to increase the stock size of these maintained. plants and ensure their long-term viability in the area. Maintain.

Pittosporum undulatum effectively colonising Removal of Pittosporum undulatum in a mosaic Pittosporum undulatum are being effectively

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator the understorey and midstorey areas of this pattern with no more than 10% to be removed C/O removed at the suggested rate. zone. annually.

Coral Trees scattered throughout the bushland Gradual removal of Coral Trees and replace with MT Coral Trees are gradually being removed with all of this zone. native canopy tree. Coral Trees removed within this zone by 2004.

Vegetation Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) creating a Removal of young Glochidion ferdinandi emerging in ST/O Glochidion ferdinandi seedlings have been >thinned Management monoculture in the understorey along the the understorey in areas where they are forming a out = in areas where they are growing thickly in the 3D western side of the track. monoculture and creating low light conditions. understorey and midstorey of the vegetation community.

3E Native grassland of Mircolaena stipoides Maintain native grassland and remove invasive O Maintenance of the native grassland is being carried (Weeping Grass), Themeda australis (Kangaroo grasses from understorey of bushland. out on a continual basis and invasive lawn grasses are Grass) and Oplismenus sp. (Basket Grass) being continually suppressed. being impacted upon by the invasion of lawn grasses i.e. Couch, Kikuyu.

Recent burn piles being impacted upon by Maintain native plants germinating in burn piles by C/O Pile burn areas have been adequately maintained and germinating weed species. removing weed species growing in and around these native plant germination has been successfully areas. Allow for continued natural regeneration. encouraged.

Reserve Users Informal tracks throughout the bushland creating Define all formal tracks and discourage informal ST/O All informal tracks are discouraged as they emerge increased avenues for weed invasion and soil tracks by brush matting or roping off areas. Install and action has been taken to prevent this from re- erosion problems. temporary signage: >Bush Regeneration Area - Please occurring. keep to the track =. Information has been made available to the public.

The tracks which have historical sandstone steps will be maintained as part of the formal track system.

NOTE: Erect sign in the Balls Head Reserve car park showing all formal tracks designed and maintained for reserve users. Entrances to the bushland from the access road need to be well defined.

Reserve Users Scattered non-indigenous species planted Young seedlings of the planted tree species will be C/O Young seedlings of non-indigenous species have

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator throughout the bushland of Zone 3. Specimens removed during bush regeneration practices in the been suppressed and native vegetation has been include the Queensland Firewheel Tree area. Mature non-indigenous planted trees species will encouraged through bush regeneration practices in (Stenocarpus sinuatus ), Plum Pine ( Podocarpus die out naturally over time. the area. spinulosus ) and Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) which were planted by the Balls Head Beautification Committee from 1930 onwards. NOTE: As part of a Recent History of Balls Head Heritage Walk small identification plaques could be placed at the base of significant (mature exotic planted specimens) explaining when they were planted in the area and for what purpose.

ZONE 4

Remnant Open Forest and Closed Forest situated in the same zone on the southern section of Balls Head Reserve. The Open Forest is dominated by Angophora

costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and the Closed Forest is dominated by Ficus rubignosa (Port Jackson Fig) and Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum).

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Vegetation Weed species invading the areas of good bush Sweep through the areas of good bush four times per C/O Areas of good bush have been given attention at least Management where few weeds are present. year removing new weed growth especially along the four times per year and new weed germination and perimeter regions - working from the good bush out annual invasions have been adequately suppressed. into the degraded areas. Piles of woody weeds have been stacked and have Removed woody weeds will be stacked and scattered LT been burned and the native regeneration is being pile burns will be undertaken in the area. maintained.

Locally rare species Cupaniopsis anacardioides Collect seed of the Tuckeroo for the North Sydney MT Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo) seed has (Tuckeroo) and Liparis flexuosa (Yellow Rock Seed Bank and propagate these species when been collected, propagated and planted into Orchid) have been reduced to a few scattered required. Plant in appropriate areas that are being regenerating areas of Balls Head Reserve bushland specimens. regenerated to increase the stock size of these plants where appropriate and maintained. and ensure their long-term viability in the area. Maintain.

Research the changing conditions leading to the low MT Appropriate action has been considered and population numbers of the Yellow Rock Orchid. explored.

Weed species colonising along the track edges Monitor track edges for weed invasion and C/O Track edges are adequately maintained from annual due to traffic and disturbance. germination and maintain where appropriate. germination of weed species.

4A Pittosporum undulatum are successfully Pittosporum undulatum trees growing around the base C/O No more than 10% Pittosporum undulatum growing colonising throughout the bushland on the of native species such as Banksia integrifolia (Coast around the base of native species have been injected southern slope creating a very shady understorey Banksia) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked in any one year. and unfavourable conditions for seedlings of the Apple) will be selectively injected with Bi-Active native canopy trees to emerge. Roundup* (or similar with low surfactant) to allow for natural regeneration in the understorey. No more than 10% to be removed in any one year.

4B Three mature Coral Trees existing on the lower Remove or inject with Bi-Active Roundup* (or ST Coral Tree growing beside the Ficus rubignosa has eastern grassed area. similar with low surfactant) one Coral Tree that is been removed or injected. competing with Ficus rubignosa (Port Jackson Fig) on the point as a priority.

Plant two locally indigenous native canopy species MT Two native canopy trees have been planted and the such as: Casuarina glauca (Swamp She Oak), two remaining Coral Trees have been removed or Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), or injected.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator Corymbia gummifera (Red Bloodwood) on the point and remove or inject with Bi-Active Roundup* (or similar with low surfactant) the two remaining Coral Trees once the planted trees have established themselves.

4C Lawn grasses invading native grassland on the Maintain native grassland on the headland and create ST Native grassland is adequately maintained and point. Native grassland has been slowly cut into natural log borders extending out to encompass the protected. by lawn mowing contractors. native grassland that has been continuously mown. Continue to allow for maximised opened space as seen to be practical.

NOTE: Grass cutting contractors that have plant identification skills should be employed to care for the lawn areas of this Reserve.

4D Lawn grass species are invading the bushland Maintain an edge to the lawn invading the bushland ST Lawn grasses have been removed and an edge is from the western perimeter extending from the and remove any lawn grasses presently existing in the being maintained. BBQ area. understorey.

4E Plan, design and plant a Native Bush Food Garden LT A Native Bush Food Garden has been planned, around the perimeter of the BBQ area using locally designed and planted around the edges of the BBQ indigenous plant species and provide interpretive area. Appropriate interpretive signage has been signage. installed.

Runoff Moderate erosion on steep slopes between the Install silt fence on a section of the steep slope that is ST Silt fence has been installed in the appropriate areas 4F Disabled Access Track and the lower track affected by erosion to prevent soil movement and is maintained to function effectively. which leads to the >Fishing Rock =. Lack of downslope and to allow for a native seed bank to understorey and midstorey vegetation for soil build up on the surface area. stabilisation.

Reserve Users Informal tracks throughout the bushland creating Define all formal tracks and discourage informal ST/O All formal tracks are well defined and all informal increased avenues for weed invasion and soil tracks by brush matting or temporarily roping off tracks are discouraged as they emerge. Information erosion problems. areas. Install temporary signage: >Bush Regeneration has been made available to the public. Area - Please keep to the track =.

The tracks which have historical sandstone steps will be maintained as part of the formal track system.

NOTE: Erect sign in the Balls Head Reserve car park

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator showing all formal tracks designed and maintained for reserve users. Entrances to the bushland from the access road need to be well defined.

Reserve users cutting corners through the Install simple temporary fence around corner areas to LT Simple temporary fence installed in high traffic areas bushland in high traffic areas trampling native prevent continual trampling of vegetation. The fence where the formation of informal tracks is continual. vegetation and causing increased soil should blend in with the surrounding environment. compaction. NOTE: All outdoor furniture at Balls Head Reserve should eventually be replaced with structures that reflect and blend in with the surrounding environment.

ZONE 5

Remnant Open Forest and Low Closed Forest situated in the same zone on the western section of Balls Head Reserve. The Open Forest is dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus punctata (Grey Gum) and the Low Closed Forest is dominated by Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) and an understorey of Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern).

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Vegetation Weed species invading the areas of good bush Sweep through the areas of good bush four times per C/O Areas of good bush have been given attention at Management where little weed is usually present. year removing new weed growth especially along the least four times per year and new weed germination perimeter regions and around the zone of Crowea and annual invasions have been adequately saligna adjacent to the old toilet blocks - working suppressed. from the good bush out into the degraded areas.

Removed woody weeds will be stacked and scattered LT Piles of woody weeds have been stacked, burned and pile burns will be undertaken in the area. the native regeneration is being adequately maintained.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Indicator

Pittosporum undulatum successfully colonising Selectively remove Pittosporum undulatum growing C/O Pittosporum undulatum have been selectively the lower slopes of the area. around existing native plant species and remove all removed and the area is maintained. young plants of this species germinating in the understorey.

Hybrid Grevillea sp. planted around the table Remove hybrid Grevillea sp. ST Hybrid Grevillea sp. have been removed. and seating area. Provides abundant supply of nectar to Noisy Miners who are becoming increasingly territorial in the bushland.

Young non-indigenous Willow Myrtle trees Removal or injection with Bi-Active Roundup* (or ST Exotic species have been removed and the area is (Agonis flexuosa ), Phoenix sp. palms and Brush similar with low surfactant) of the exotic species that adequately maintained. Box ( Tristania conferta ) are germinating have germinated in bushland. throughout the bushland.

5A Lawn grass invading the bushland from small Remove couch grass and mulch the small area ST Lawn grass has been removed and the area is viewing area. (3mx2m) allowing for the surrounding native grasses adequately maintained. to recolonise the area whilst allowing for the existing walkway. Maintain.

Vegetation Informal tracks throughout the bushland creating Define all formal tracks and discourage informal ST/O All formal tracks are well defined and all informal Management increased avenues for weed invasion and soil tracks by brush matting or roping off areas. Install tracks are discouraged as they emerge. Information erosion problems. temporary signage: >Bush Regeneration Area - Please has been made available to the public. keep to the track =.

The tracks which have historical sandstone steps will be maintained as part of the formal track system.

NOTE: Erect sign in the Balls Head Reserve car park showing all formal tracks designed and maintained for reserve users. Entrances to the bushland from the access road need to be well defined.

10.2 Management Strategies and other Programs required for a successful rehabilitation process

Management Strategy/Program Priority Responsibility

Fire Management Strategy MT Bushland Management Team

Feral Animal Control Program MT Bushland Management Team

Fauna Study LT Bushland Management Team

Wildlife Corridor Strategy MT Bushland Management Team

Community Education Program C/O Bushland Management Team

Report on the Vandalism of Balls Head Reserve 1999-2000 ST Bushland Management Team