bushlandnews

Year of the frog highlights amphibian extinction crisis

Compiled by Jo Tregonning Issue 65 CONSERVATION groups, including the World Association of Autumn 2008 Zoos and Aquariums and the World Conservation Union, have declared 2008 the international year of the frog. This global Time of Djeran in the campaign aims to raise awareness of our amphibian extinction crisis, focus research on captive Nyoongar calendar. breeding programs, control the threatening Chytrid fungus and conserve amphibians in the wild.

After thriving for more than 360 Urban Nature update million years, one third to one half Page 2 of the world’s approximately 6000 known amphibian species is now in Bushland Weedwatch: danger of becoming extinct in our Tambookie grass Page 3 lifetime. In Australia, at least 27 per cent of the 219 frog species are Econote: Geology threatened with extinction. In Page 4 Western Australia, three of our 78 frog species are classified as Funding opportunities threatened, although a lack of Page 5 survey data limits accurate What’s on Page 6 assessment of frog status. ‘Amphibian Ark’ Learning opportunities Page 7 ‘Amphibian Ark’ is supported by a worldwide network of zoos and Regional reports Page 8 aquariums and has been established to rescue priority endangered Ferals Page 9 amphibian species and place them in biosecure facilities for Moaning frog (Heleioporus eyrei). Photo – Johnny Prefumo Acid sulfate soils safekeeping and breeding. Scientists Page 10 estimate 500 amphibian species of habitat and the Chytrid fungus; as On-ground community worldwide need to be taken into well as frogs of the Kimberley region initiatives Group profile: Friends captivity to prevent them from that may be adversely affected by the The retention, protection, good of Lake Gwelup extinction. Despite 70 per cent of invasion of the cane toad. Captive management and, and in some Page 11 Australian frog species having been populations may provide an essential cases, restoration of frog habitat in held in captivity, less than 20 per reservoir population for later remnant wetland and bushland Resources Page 12 cent of these have been bred and reintroduction into the wild when areas are the most effective actions extensively studied. major threats have been controlled. to protect urban frogs. Projects undertaken by many Friends groups Perth Zoo, supported by the Water Why is this happening? and councils in these areas are an Corporation, is taking part in this Amphibians are regarded a good important contribution to the breeding and research program ‘indicator species’ as they are survival of our amphibians. which is being developed in particularly sensitive to changes in conjunction with the Department of The creation of wetlands in urban Environment and Conservation environmental conditions and have waterways (‘living streams’) and (DEC), the WA Museum, The been likened to canaries in a coal building frog-friendly gardens in University of Western Australia and mine. Common themes in the urban environments also Murdoch University. The primary worldwide amphibian extinction contributes to the conservation of focus will be on the three species of crisis include habitat loss through our frog species. Instructions are frogs – orange or yellow-bellied frog land-use change, commercial over- available from the Perth Zoo and Bushland News is a quarterly (Geocrinia vitellina), white-bellied frog exploitation, pollution of habitats, WA Museum. Remember not to newsletter of Urban Nature, a (Geocrinia alba) and the sunset frog and increasingly, the rise of the take tadpoles, frogs, water, plants, Department of Environment and infectious disease chytridiomycosis, Conservation (DEC) program to (Spicospina flammocaerulea) – from soil or logs from wetlands as you support community involvement the State’s south-west that are at risk commonly named Chytrid fungus may spread Chytrid fungus. (See in bushland conservation. from degradation or fragmentation (see page 5). ‘Frog resources’ on page 12).

www.naturebase.net/urbannature bushlandnews Autumn 2008

In 2007 some projects, including some funded by the State Government’s Saving our Species Biodiversity Conservation Initiative, Urban Nature UPDATE looked at managing Cape tulip (Moraea spp.) in native bushland. A half-day workshop in Some readers may now be aware that Karen Clarke (Urban Nature Coordinator) has been February looked at the results of these ill for some weeks. Staff in DEC’s Swan Region wish Karen a full recovery and are looking projects and planned for 2008. Participants forward to her return. Rebecca Hayes has joined the Urban Nature team as a came from local government, DEC, Botanic Conservation Officer for six months. Rebecca will be assisting with the Urban Nature Gardens and Parks Authority, Greening programs and is looking forward to meeting and working with bushland managers. Australia WA and Edith Cowan University. The projects are all in the early stages, but hope to gain a better understanding of how to control Moraea spp. in bushland and the A large part of Urban Nature’s work techniques and monitoring the role of fire in that process in the future. involves providing technical support to land regeneration of native plant communities. managers at Bush Forever sites including Most of the data is collected during winter Paganoni Swamp, Point Becher, Brixton and spring and the data is collated in the Street Wetlands and Lowlands. This work office during summer. Plant collections are often involves adaptive management identified and incorporated into existing projects addressing weed management field herbaria and into the WA Herbarium.

Jessica Allan from DEC scoring herbicide trials on a species of the Cape tulips (Moraea fugax). Photo – Kate Brown

Winter Bushland News

Winter Bushland News contributions Plant specimens such as compacted featherflower (Verticordia densiflora) collected from Brixton should be sent to Urban Nature by Street Wetlands are currently being collated by Urban Nature staff. Photo – Kate Brown Thursday 29 May 2008. Compiled and edited by Jo Tregonning. SFNC – the end of a 10-year program, or just a break?

The Skills for Nature Conservation (SFNC) training and development program began in 1998 Contacts as a partnership between the Swan Catchment Centre, Greening Australia WA and Ecoplan, Urban Nature office as a program of the then Department of Environmental Protection. The program has received funding and in-kind support from the program partners and from Natural Heritage Trust funds David Mitchell 9423 2913 delivered through the Swan Catchment Council (SCC). Kate Brown 9423 2905 Grazyna Paczkowska 9423 2914 The high-quality training was provided free to community members involved and interested in Karen Bettink 9423 2904 bushland and wetland management and covered a range of topics including people skills, Rebecca Hayes 9423 2924 ecology and practical management. The program has been very popular and highly valued by Department of Environment and the community and professionals. It won the Outstanding On-going Program Award in the Conservation, Swan Region office WA 2001 Adult Learners Week Awards and was a finalist in the 2001 State Landcare Awards. 7 Turner Avenue, Bentley WA 6102 Unfortunately, future funding of the SFNC program has not been included in planning for the PO Box 1167 next SCC Investment Plan. In addition, how SFNC will fit into the new Commonwealth Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983 program, Caring for our Country (see page 7), has yet to be determined. Fax 9423 2901 As the existing resources of the project partners allow, there will be a small number of training Email [email protected] courses held under the SFNC banner during 2008. The SFNC project partners will be investigating if, and in what form, community training such as SFNC can continue in the future. Previous newsletter issues available at For more information on future courses contact Rebecca on 9423 2924. www.naturebase.net/urbannature

2 Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature BUSHLAND WEEDWATCH: Tambookie grass (Hyparrhenia hirta)

By Karen Bettink

TAMBOOKIE grass (Hyparrhenia hirta), or Coolatai grass as it is known in eastern Australia, is among a suite of invasive perennial grasses which have major ecological impacts and pose significant threats to the biodiversity of natural ecosystems.

Native to Africa and the Mediterranean, have shown that it has rapid growth rates, tambookie grass was introduced for soil wide temperature ranges for germination stabilisation and pasture in the Coolatai area and growth, and the ability to grow and of New South Wales (after which it was become invasive on a range of soil types. named) in the 1890s. It spread rapidly to now infest large areas of northern NSW, southern Similar species Queensland, Victoria and South Australia. In There are several other species of Western Australia it is found from Geraldton Hyparrhenia which are closely related to or across the south-west corner to Esperance, may be confused with tambookie grass. with a large proportion of the populations However, these are not recorded in WA. around Perth and south to Augusta. Impacts Rapidly becoming more widespread in these Tambookie grass forms densely tufted areas, it can be seen infesting road verges tussocks that can dominate and reduce and disturbed sites as well as intact native plant diversity and impact on native shrubland and woodlands. In the Swan fauna. In a study conducted in NSW on Natural Resource Management Region it is endangered Eucalypt woodland, classed a high priority environmental weed Tambookie grass leaves (left) and inflorescence. tambookie grass greatly reduced the because it is capable of impacting on cover and species richness of native flora remnant bushland, including Threatened (in some cases by more than 50 per cent). important to control outlying populations Ecological Communities on the eastern side Similar to veldt grass (Ehrharta spp.) and and prevent spread into uninfected areas. of the Swan Coastal Plain. African lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula), In areas where it is already widespread, the tambookie grass can cause a priority is to target infestations in or near change in fire intensity and sites of high biodiversity value. frequency, which ultimately alters vegetation structure More information and favours reinfestation. A new weed management guide for It has also been suggested tambookie grass has recently been published that Hyparrhenia species may by the National Weeds Cooperative Research produce allelochemicals that Centre (CRC). Coolatai grass (Hyparrhenia affect the growth of hirta) (2007) Weed Management Guide: surrounding species. However, Managing weeds for biodiversity. National this is not well understood. The Weeds Cooperative Research Centre (CRC). greater production of plant litter Copy available at www.weeds.crc.org.au/ Tambookie grass (Hyparrhenia hirta) can replace diverse and less inter-tussock spacing of native vegetation. Photo – Kate Brown tambookie grass appears to documents/wmg_coolatai.pdf favour the formation of Chejara, V.J, Naldony, C., Whalley, R.B.D Biology monocultures compared with some native and Sindel, B.M. (2006) Impacts of Tambookie grass is a summer-active, grasses which form more open clumps. Hyparrhenia hirta (L.) Stapf (Coolatai grass) tussock-forming perennial growing up to on native vegetation in a traveling stock 1.5 metres tall. It has five to 13 awned Control spikelets each with whitish hairs and is Small infestations can be grubbed out, route in northern New South Wales, In capable of flowering all year round. however once it is established, tambookie Proceedings of the 15th Australian Weeds Seedlings and juvenile plants have bluish- grass is difficult to control. Single herbicide Conference, eds C. Preston, J.H. Watts and green leaves. Deep-rooted and drought treatment may not kill mature tussocks but N.D. Crossman, Weed Management Society resistant, it reproduces by seed and is a combination of slashing and chemical of South Australia, Adelaide. commonly spread by soil movement, treatments may be required and will be mowing and water. most effective applied in the warmer Harden, G. (Ed) (1993) Flora of NSW, Vol. months when the grass is actively growing. 4, pages 497-500, NSW University Press. It rapidly regrows after being burnt, grazed or slashed, with the highest regrowth rates With tambookie grass in the early stages WA Herbarium (2008) http://florabase. in warm to hot conditions. Australian studies of invasion in south-west WA, it is dec.wa.gov.au/ Accessed February 2008.

Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature 3 ECONOTES:

Understanding landscapes of the Perth region By Bob Gozzard

FROM the stability of the Darling Plateau to the dynamic coastal environments, the Perth region has had a long and varied geological history. Learning about the geology of the Perth region and its surface expression is essential to understanding and appreciating the landscape and ecosystems we see today. Rocks determine the types of soils that are found and hence heavily influence the type and variety of plant and animal communities that depend on them.

In geological terms, the Perth region can be broadly divided into two features – the Darling Scarp and Plateau and the Swan Coastal Plain. The Darling Scarp and Plateau form a landscape of hills and steeply incised valleys to the east of Perth and comprise a mix of ancient igneous and metamorphic rocks dating as far back as 3340 million years. The Swan Coastal Plain contains a thick succession of much younger and softer sedimentary rocks that form a landscape of dunes and low hills with chains of lakes in linear depressions. Geomorphologically, the Perth region is subdivided into several regional-scale units, each of which lies parallel to the coast: Above: Three levels of elevated shoreline platforms at Cape Peron. Below: Dolerite dykes Darling Plateau – igneous and metamorphic intruding well-jointed granites in Mountain Quarry. Photos – Bob Gozzard rocks with a mantle of lateritic duricrusts, sands and gravels; Darling Scarp – colluvial quartz sands; Ridge Hill Shelf – sand and lateritized sand; Pinjarra Plain – unconsolidated clays and loams; Bassendean Dunes – heavily leached yellow and white quartz sand; Spearwood Dunes – limestone and deep yellow quartz sand; and Quindalup Dunes – calcareous coastal sand dunes. Each of these geomorphological units has a distinctive series of landform-soil units (or soil associations). These units are used by soil and plant scientists to identify vegetation associations in relationship to aspects of the landscape. Each soil association has a characteristic series of plant communities associated with them geomorphology benefits on-ground changes will help us to understand the (Bush Forever, 2000). For example, Banksia conservation work and our appreciation of possible effects of sea-level changes woodlands are found on the sandy soils the important link between geology and predicted for the coming century as a of the Bassendean and Spearwood Dunes. biodiversity. For example, banded ironstone result of climate change. Although much is known at regional formations at Windarling Range and other scales regarding the association of localities in the mid-west of WA have been More information vegetation habitats and environmental isolated over geological time and are Gozzard, J.R. (2007) Geology and conditions, sufficient detail at finer scales considered to be biodiversity ‘islands’. Landforms of the Perth Region. Geological is generally lacking for purposes of These areas have distinct and often unique Survey of Western Australia. Available landscape ecological studies – although plant communities and species such as the from Mineral House, 100 Plain Street, East this is being remedied. declared rare flora Tetratheca paynterae. Perth. Phone 9222 3459. RRP $22.00. In these times of greater environmental Understanding how past geological awareness there is a growing public processes have shaped the landscape will Department of Environmental Protection appreciation of the need to understand help us understand how similar processes (2000) Bush Forever Volume 2 Directory landscapes and the importance of geology. may change our future. For example, of Bush Forever Sites. Government of An understanding of geology and understanding the effects of past sea-level Western Australia.

4 Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature bushlandnews Autumn 2008

Funding opportunities Chytrid fungus causes The 2008 Grants Directory available from the Department amphibian decline of Local Government and Regional Development provides details of more than 100 grants available from the State and The infectious disease chytridiomycosis, commonly called Commonwealth governments and private sector organisations. Visit www.dlgrd.wa.gov.au. amphibian Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis), has been identified in association with amphibian population Threatened Species Network Community Grants are declines on every amphibian-inhabited continent. Two available for incorporated community-based organisations to conduct Australian frog species have been lost to the deadly and on-ground work for the ongoing health of our natural environment, highly contagious fungus in recent years, with more than 50 specifically targeting the needs of nationally threatened species and per cent of Australia’s threatened frog species infected with ecological communities. Funded project examples include habitat the fungus. restoration, weeding, feral animal control, monitoring and surveying species populations, fencing and fire management. Funding limit is The Chytrid fungus is thought to have originated in sub- $50,000 (inclusive of GST). Applications close 30 May 2008. Saharan Africa where it has been documented on African Applicants must contact their regional Threatened Species Network clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) as far back as the 1930s. At Coordinator on 1800 032 551 or email [email protected]. that time, these frogs started being exported around the Visit http://wwf.org.au/ourwork/species/tsngrants/. world for human pregnancy tests, and presumably, the disease went with them. Over the years, the frogs also Coastwest funding is available for on-ground coastal and marine became popular as research subjects and pets. It is estimated management; identification and monitoring; project support that they have been exported and distributed by the tens of (purchasing materials, contracting works, and equipment hire); and thousands per year since the 1930s. capacity building (training courses and group establishment costs). Up to $60,000 per project is available when coastal managers and Chytrid fungus spreads through water courses and community groups jointly submit an application. Up to $8000 is amphibian-to-amphibian contact, and possibly by other available to regional coastal management groups and $3000 to mechanisms not yet fully understood. In Central America, its community groups. Phone 9264 7777, email rate of progression has been calculated at 28 to 100 [email protected] or visit www.wapc.wa.gov.au/coastwest. kilometers per year. Currently it cannot be stopped in the wild and a minority of species seem resistant, though are likely Swan Alcoa Landcare Program vectors for future outbreaks. The Swan Alcoa Landcare Program provides funding to community groups and or local government bodies working with community The following traits can be observed with Chytrid fungus in groups for on-ground revegetation, rehabilitation and other south-west WA: environmentally based projects. Guidelines and forms available at • motorbike (Litoria moorei), banjo (Limnodynastes dorsalis) www.swancatchmentcouncil.org/default.aspx?MenuID=44 or by and to a lesser extent moaning (Heleioporus eyrei) frogs contacting the Swan Catchment Council on 9374 3333. are the species most susceptible to the fungus; Applications for the current round of funding close on 1 May 2008. • increased fungus appears in wet years; • fungus is active between 6°C and 28°C (most active at 11°C and 17°C); Resources for environmental educators • the fungus is unlikely to cause 100 per cent mortality as there is some evidence that frogs are developing some Western swamp tortoise – Australia's most endangered immunity; and reptile. The Friends of the Western Swamp Tortoise, through a • 15 per cent of quacking frogs (Crinia georgiana) are generous Lotterywest grant, has prepared a variety of teaching carriers of the disease. resources. These include a catchment model (fits onto a trailer), posters and photos, board games (threatened species, wetland, tortoise), tic-tac-toe floor game and classroom worksheets. The Friends group is pleased to lend any of the resources, free of charge, to teachers for use in their classroom. The group can also provide a guest speaker and/or a display, and can adapt our material to add to the motivation and interest of students. Contact Jan Bant on 9334 2872 or email [email protected] or [email protected].

Ribbons of Blue: In and Out of the Classroom is a school curriculum manual for teachers with lesson materials on catchments, history, land use, climate, landforms and soil, habitats, fauna and macroinvertebrates, water quality, stormwater, groundwater and salinity. It provides opportunities for students to take part actively in community projects and to help develop sustainable lifestyles. Free to teachers via Western green tree frog or motorbike frog (Litoria moorei). Photo – Kate Brown regional coordinators. Phone Richard Olive on 6467 5127. Visit www.ribbonsofblue.wa.gov.au.

Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature 5 what’s on

Opportunities for you to take part! Visitors always welcome but please confirm activities with the contact person. Most activities are FREE!

Sundays 8am–10am 8 Tuesday 8pm 26 Saturday 8am 16 Friday 7.30pm Bushcare activities every Sunday Linnaeus and the naming of life – Guided bush walk in Star Swamp Guided night stalk with the with the Friends of Shenton Park guest speaker Kevin Thiele. Contact Bushland. Contact FSSB. Friends of Lake Gwelup. Contact Bushland. Contact Dani 9381 3470 or WSWA. FLG. [email protected]. Monday 28 April–Friday 9 May 9 Wednesday 7.30pm Biological surveys and walk trail 17 Saturday 1pm–4pm Sundays 8.30am Rock art in the south west – maintenance with DEC rangers at The art of propagation Bushcare activities with the Friends guest speakers David Guilfoyle and Lake Mason/Black Range (650 workshop with Sabrina Hahn and of Wireless Hill. Held second and fourth Wayne Webb. Contact BNC. kilometres north-east of Perth). Kings Park nursery specialists. Cost: Sunday of each month. Meet at main Residential project, nominal fee of $65. Biodiversity Conservation car park. Contact Margaret 9315 9075 12 Saturday 1pm–4pm $30 per night includes transport, Centre. Contact KPBG. or [email protected]. Seed collection and germination accommodation and food. workshop on collection techniques, Contact CVA. 17 Saturday 8am Tuesdays 8am–9am site selection, permit requirements, Guided nature walk with the Bushcare activities every Tuesday seed cleaning, preparation and 30 Wednesday 8.30am–11am Friends of Lake Gwelup. Contact with Byford Enviro-Link. Call Kristy storage. Octagonal Hall, McGlew Rd, Brunch with the birds at Kings FLG. 9526 0199. Glen Forrest. Contact BSFH. Park. Guided walk with Birds Australia. Cost: $45 includes cooked brunch at 17 Saturday 9am 12 Saturday 10am–12 noon Zamia Cafe. Contact KPBG. Activity morning with Friends of Bizarre Botanicals talk by Dr Neville Brixton Street Wetlands. Call Regina April Marchant. Australia’s flora – structure, 9459 2964. Monday 31 March–Friday 4 April morphology and how they have May 18 Sunday 8am Restoring western swamp evolved. Cost: $25. Biodiversity Plant sale of WA native flora tortoise habitat with DEC at Ellen Conservation Centre. Contact KPBG. 2 Friday 7.30pm propagated by the Friends of Kings Brook by weeding, planting and minor Fungi – guest speaker TBA. Contact 18 Friday 9am–12 noon Park. Exhibition grounds, Kings Park. construction. Contact CVA. WA Nats. Native tree decline workshop, Contact KPBG. Monday 31 March–Friday 4 April Kwinana. Recognising tree decline, 3 Saturday 9am–12 noon 18 Sunday 9am–12 noon Riverbank restoration and planting treatment, protecting healthy trees. Native tree decline workshop, Fungi survey and species on the Swan and Canning Rivers with Contact Green Skills 9360 6667 or Serpentine Jarrahdale. Recognising identification at Warwick the City of South Perth. Contact CVA. [email protected]. tree decline, treatment, protecting Bushland. Contact FWB. healthy trees. Contact Green Skills 1 Tuesday 6.15pm 19 Saturday 8am 9360 6667 or 18 Sunday 10.30am–12.30pm Night walk with the Friends of Paganoni Guided nature walk with the [email protected]. Activity morning with the Friends Swamp. Call Leonie 0439 921 298. Friends of Lake Gwelup. Contact FLG. of Piesse Brook. Contact FPB. 4 Sunday 10am–3pm 4 Friday 19 Saturday 9am Bush survival skills. Kings Park. 19 Monday 7.30pm Earth Day Expo. Hands-on Activity morning with the Friends Cost: $75. Contact KPBG. AGM Friends of Lake Gwelup. environmental activities for primary- of Brixton Street Wetlands. Call Colin Moore Resource Centre, aged children. Volunteers needed to run Regina 9459 2964. 13 Tuesday 8pm Lagonda Dr (cnr North Beach Rd). activities. Lunch provided. Edith Cowan Talks by Perth Wildflower Society 20 Sunday 10.30am–12.30pm Contact FLG. University, Mount Lawley. Email Jennifer members in honour of the Society’s Activity morning with the Friends Pearson [email protected]. 50th Anniversary. Contact WSWA. of Piesse Brook. Contact FPB. 20 Tuesday 9am Mapping dune onion weed with 4 Friday 7.30pm 14 Wednesday 7.30pm 20 Sunday the Friends of Paganoni Swamp. Call Rise and fall of the woylie – Electricity from nuclear power – Cape Freycinet walk from Boranup Leonie 0439 921 298. guest speaker Adrian Wayne. its promises and dangers. Guest Forest to the coast, 13 kilometres Contact WA Nats. speaker Bernie Masters. Contact BNC. return. Carry your own lunch. Bus $10. 23 Friday 7.30pm Nocturnal walk in Star Swamp 5 Saturday 8.30am–10.30am Contact BNC. 14 Wednesday 7pm–9pm Bushland. Bring a torch. Contact Bushland birds guided walk with Secret sex life of plants talk by 20 Sunday 9am–12 noon FSSB. Birds Australia at Kings Park. Cost: Dr Neville Marchant. Cost: $25. Bush regeneration and $35 includes light refreshments. Biodiversity Conservation Centre. monitoring at Warwick Bushland. Contact KPBG. Contact KPBG. Contact FWB. Please send us your July, August and September events by REGISTRATION/CONTACT DETAILS Thursday 29 May 2008. BSFH Bush Skills for the Hills FLG Friends of Lake Gwelup. Contact FWB Friends Warwick offers free hills-focused Wayne 0407 383 425 or Betty 9444 Bushland. Meet at workshops. Contact 5640 or email [email protected]. bowling/tennis club car park, Activities key Robbie 9424 2216 or FPB Friends of Piesse Brook. Meet at the Lloyd Dr, Warwick. Contact [email protected]. gate into Kalamunda National Park, end Janina Pezzarini 9447 9494 Hands on – bushland and BNC Busselton Naturalists Club. of Schipp Rd, Piesse Brook. Wear sturdy or [email protected]. wetland management activities. Meet RSL Hall, Causeway Rd, boots, gloves and hat. Bring drinking WSWA Wildflower Society of WA Walks and tours – look, listen Busselton. Contact Bernie water and a smile. Contact Linda (Perth Branch) Subiaco and enjoy guided walks and Masters 9727 2474 or Stanley 92934533 (work) or Community Centre, 203 excursions. [email protected]. [email protected]. Bagot Rd. Non-members CVA Conservation Volunteers KPBG Kings Park Botanic Gardens welcome. $2 entry includes Skills development Australia. 2/343 Newcastle Connect environmental workshops. supper. Call Nina activities – talks, St, Northbridge. Contact Bookings call 9480 3600. 0427 936 566. presentations, training courses and workshops. Sandra or Steve 9227 5711 or FSSB Friends of Star Swamp Bushland. WA Nats WA Naturalists Club perth@conservationvolunteers. Meet at Henderson Environment Centre, Hew Roberts Lecture Theatre, Meetings and events – com.au. Visit www.conservation Groat St, North Beach. Contact Christine Clifton St, Nedlands. Visit group meetings, expos, festivals volunteers.com.au. 9447 2983 or [email protected]. www.wanats.iinet.net.au. and conferences.

6 Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature bushlandnews Autumn 2008

24 Saturday 8am 15 Sunday Guided bush walk in Star Swamp Planting in Ludlow National Park. Bushland. Contact FSSB. Leader: Nicole Lincoln, DEC. Lunch Highlights provided. Tour of 2007 planting in 24 Saturday 10am–12 noon mining area. Contact BNC. 29 March–6 April Walk on the wild side with Dr Conservation Week 2008 WA’s Water Future. WA’s largest community-focused Neville Marchant at Kings Park to 15 Sunday 10.30am–12.30pm environmental event. Contact Jessie Cochrane 9420 7266 or discover WA flora. Cost: $25. Contact Activity morning with the Friends of [email protected]. Visit www.conservationwa.asn.au. KPBG. Piesse Brook. Contact FPB. April–May 10am–4pm 17 Tuesday 9am Greenskills mega workshops on gardening, vegetables/orchards (Great Gardens Removing dune onion weed with workshops) and hobby farming. Bookings essential 1300 369 833 or visit June the Friends of Paganoni Swamp. Call www.greatgardens.info. 2 Monday–6 Friday Leonie 0439 921 298. April Urban wetlands restoration in the 21 Saturday 9am DEC Nearer to Nature Awesome Autumn nature programs such as caving, City of Bayswater. Contact CVA. Activity morning with Friends of camping, spiders, raptors, marine encounter or nocturnal walk. Affordable prices for 2 Monday–13 Friday Brixton Street Wetlands. Call Regina all activities. Bookings: Perth Hills National Parks Centre 9295 2244 or visit Wetland planting at Tomato Lake 9459 2964. www.naturebase.net/nearertonature. and Garvey Park. Note: excludes 7–8 22 Sunday 1–4 September June. Contact CVA. Karri Gully loop 10-kilometre 11th International River Symposium 2008: A Future of Extremes. Brisbane, 6 Friday 7.30pm walk. Carry your own lunch. Bus $10. Australia. Visit www.riversymposium.com/index.php?page=Program. Underwater photography – guest Contact BNC. speaker Ann Storrie. Contact WA Nats. 22 Sunday 9am–12 noon 9 Monday–13 Friday Planting and fungi spotting at Rehabilitation and revegetation Warwick Bushland. Contact FWB. A new Natural Resource Management of Buckland Hill with the Town of 28 Saturday–29 Sunday Mosman Park. Contact CVA. (NRM) program – Caring for our Country AGM and state conference, 9 Monday–10 Tuesday Wildflower Society of WA. Ecology On the 14 March 2008 the Federal Government announced that Chemical handling and weed Centre, Bold Park, Floreat. Contact it would invest $2.25 billion over five years in a new program to control. Accredited training course. Julie 9383 7979 or Call Serpentine Jarrahdale Landcare [email protected]. restore the health of Australia’s environment and build on Centre 9526 0012. improved land management practices. The Caring for our Country program will deliver funding to local communities through a 10 Tuesday 8pm July Mt Manning region and other simple, ‘one-stop shop’ approach that covers the Natural Heritage biodiversity hotspots. Guest 1 Tuesday 9am Trust and the National Landcare, Environmental Stewardship and speaker Mark Brundrett. Contact Fungi walk with the Friends of Working on Country programs. Regional natural resource bodies WSWA. Paganoni Swamp. Call Leonie 0439 921 298. will remain central in delivering Caring for our Country. 11 Wednesday 7.30pm Larger fungi of the South West. 4 Friday 7.30pm For more information, visit the NRM website www.nrm.gov.au or Guest speaker Richard Robinson. Wetland invertebrates – guest ring 1800 552 008. Contact BNC. speaker TBA. Contact WA Nats.

Learning opportunities

Interested in fungi? Visit the website of the Perth Urban Bushland National Trust – a ‘snapshot’ of Fungi Project at www.fungiperth.org.au where community fungi walks their work and information sessions will be posted by May. The National Trust of Australia (WA) is a community- based heritage organisation, which advocates on behalf Green Skills environmental training and employment of the community on heritage issues. Through its natural programs link to practical conservation projects such as wetlands heritage programs, which include the Conservation restoration, recycling, energy efficiency, sustainable living, the arts, Covenant Program, the BushBank Revolving Fund, Bush bush rehabilitation, landcare fencing, farm forestry, whole farm and Brokers and tax-deductible appeals, the National Trust is catchment planning, river surveys and tree planting. For more working with private landowners and other organisations information on courses and current projects contact: to conserve valuable WA bushland for the benefit of the • Environmental Technology Centre, Murdoch University, phone community. 9360 6667 or email [email protected]; The National Trust will be running a series of free events • Denmark office on 9848 1019 or email [email protected]; during Conservation Week (29 March–6 April 2008), • Albany Training Centre on 9842 1334 or email including guided tours of project sites and presentations [email protected]; or on our natural heritage programs. Phone 9321 6088 or • visit www.greenskills.green.net.au. visit www.naturalheritage.org.au.

Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature 7 bushlandnews regionalreports Please send us your regional report (150–200 words) and a photo by Thursday 29 May 2008. Text may be edited in response to volume of submitted reports.

Coastal rehabilitation in the south metro region By Craig Wilson

PERTH’S coastal vegetation is under threat from invasive weeds, dumped garden refuse, feral animals, erosion and from unmanaged vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Factor in the potential impact of sea-level rise and associated storm events and, in the future, the coastal fringe could be looking substantially different to how it is today. Local governments manage coastal reserves in association with local community groups and the Swan Catchment Council’s Coastcare Program. Coastcare mobilises community input through the implementation of activities such as woody weed removal, coastal planting days during the rainy season and specific events such as Clean Up Australia Day. Coastcare volunteers planting in dunes at Coogee Beach. Photo – Craig Wilson Coastcare also assists community groups to develop funding applications, implement training programs and develop By Leonie Stubbs promotional materials to support Negotiations save tuarts community involvement in natural area management. There is no doubt that Paganoni Swamp As a result of the submissions and after Reserve is feeling the impacts of consultation with staff from DEC's Community planting days have been accelerated urbanisation with the railway Rockingham Lakes Regional Park (which undertaken in a range of locations to the east, a proposed highway on its during the past two years including manages Paganoni Swamp), a site western boundary and a planned upgrade Warnbro Beach and Kwinana Beach meeting was organised. Five staff from to Paganoni Road along its northern where more than 3000 seedlings of Southern Gateway Alliance together with boundary. Paganoni Road will become a coastal species have been planted. In representatives from the Conservation feeder road to the Kwinana Freeway association with woody weed removal Council and our Friends group spent the extension and the Perth–Bunbury Highway. the planting program has improved the morning observing what trees and To cope with the expected increase in biodiversity value of the coastal reserve, bushland would be lost and assessing traffic from approximately 700 to 12,000 raised the involvement of the local how to minimise the impact. Considerable vehicles per day, the upgrade has been community in conservation outcomes designed to improve the quality of the discussion took place between all parties and provided a positive boost to the single carriageway. The upgrade would recognising the importance of visual amenity of the area. result in the destruction of approximately constructing safe roads but also As the general community becomes 40 tuarts (Eucalyptus gomphocephala) as acknowledging the considerable value of increasingly aware about global well as quality tuart bushland buffering the trees and bushland. environmental issues such as climate swamp. Total clearing would amount to The outcome of all these negotiations and change, the Coastcare program provides approximately seven hectares. deliberations has resulted in a reduction in an opportunity for people to take part in The upgrade was assessed under Main clearing from seven hectares to only 1.1 a local hands-on experience and make a Road’s State-wide purpose clearing hectares plus the retention of 26 tuarts. contribution. The benefits of social permit. Stakeholder consultation was This is a great outcome for Paganoni networking and building bonds within the required due to the type of vegetation local community are some of the positive Swamp and emphasises the value of found at Paganoni Swamp. Submissions outcomes that flow from community participating in a genuine consultation against clearing were made by DEC’s involvement in projects such as Coastcare. process when it is available and on offer. Native Vegetation Conservation Unit, the For more information contact Craig Conservation Council of WA and the For more information about the Friends Wilson (Southern Metropolitan Friends of Paganoni Swamp. Both the of Paganoni Swamp contact Leonie on Coastcare Officer) on 9439 0433 or Conservation Council and the Friends 0439 921 298 or email Friends_Paganoni email [email protected]. group provided alternative options. [email protected].

8 Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature Autumn 2008 Focus on ferals

Reducing the rainbow lorikeet population in Perth Coastal metropolitan rabbit control By Kate Sputore By Gary Porter (DEC) The Department of Agriculture and Food and DEC are coordinating and undertaking The rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are control actions throughout the Perth haematodus moluccans) is not native to considered to be Australia’s most serious metropolitan area, with the aim of reducing WA. In Australia, it is naturally distributed vertebrate pest, as they severely affect native numbers to manageable levels. The along a coastal strip from Cape York, flora and fauna as well as primary industries. population estimate in mid-2007 was Queensland to South Australia (including 15,000 birds and, since then, at least 6000 Feral rabbits are a confirmed or perceived Kangaroo Island). Free-flying birds currently birds have been removed. This substantial threat to a large number of endangered found in WA are a combination of escaped result was made possible by the joint efforts species, and can have serious implications aviary birds or their descendants. The of growers, DEC staff and contractors who for coastal vegetation and dune stability. current distribution of the Perth population shot birds in orchards, vineyards, night They are able to access high quality feed, is roughly bounded by Wanneroo (north), roosts and daytime resting sites. possess rapid rates of reproduction and Chidlow (east) and Mandurah (south), with have the ability to adapt to a wide variety To date, the culling of birds by DEC officers occasional birds recorded outside this area. of climatic conditions. Birds are at their highest density in the has been conducted at night roosts in Perth. western suburbs of Perth but could Feed sites are now being established to Each year, local governments and establish anywhere in the State. enable daytime shooting as well. Population community groups invest time and money modelling suggests that if a cull of 5000 birds towards the revegetation and rehabilitation This bird is an agricultural pest, damaging is conducted annually for the next five to of our coastline, so it is vital that we commercial crops of stonefruit, fig, loquat, seven years, followed by the removal of about protect these fragile areas from the olives, citrus and grapes and is an 1000 per year from then on, the population degradation caused by feral rabbits. environmental pest, competing with native could be kept as low as 1000 birds. fauna for food and nesting resources and The Swan Catchment Council (SCC) has potentially carries and spreads disease. They Birds observed outside of the Perth area, funded two Coastcare officers – Kate are also social pests due to their noisy or damage caused by lorikeets, can be Sputore (North Metropolitan) and Craig behaviour, fouling at roosting sites and reported to the Department of Agriculture Wilson (Southern Metropolitan) – who will raiding backyard fruit trees. and Food on 1800 084 881. coordinate the implementation of a regional rabbit control program in 2008. The program is currently being implemented along the metropolitan coast with the support of relevant land managers. It will utilise a variety of methods to control the rabbit population through the use of baits, biological control and warren destruction. This will be the largest regional rabbit control program ever undertaken in WA, spanning 11 local government authorities. A cooperative approach is vital to the success of any feral animal control program.

Rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus) feed site using lorikeet call playback, food items and For more information phone Kate Sputore live birds to attract lorikeets. Photo – Gary Porter on 9285 5099.

Geraldton carnation weed strategic plan – call for submissions

The SCC and DEC are currently developing a strategic plan to and the locations of populations in the Swan NRM Region, manage the highly invasive Geraldton carnation weed (Euphorbia particularly outlying infestations or those that threaten important terracina) in the Swan NRM Region. This toxic, short-lived perennial bushland areas. herb threatens native plant communities, particularly on calcareous Please contact Karen Bettink on 9423 2904 or by email soils throughout south-west Australia. ([email protected]) or at PO BOX 1167, Bentley Delivery Distribution of the weed is not clear, as WA Herbarium collection Centre, WA 6983. records represent only a fraction of its true occurrence across the See Bushland WeedWatch (Bushland News Issue 61 Autumn 2007) Region. Information is being sought on current management for more information on Geraldton carnation weed.

Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature 9 bushlandnews

Acid sulfate soils in Western Australia By Clare Nixon (DEC)

A SEVERE groundwater acidity problem in the City of Stirling just six years ago alerted scientists to re-evaluate the existence of acid sulfate soils in Western Australia. Subsequent research has shown that ASS are widespread on the Swan Coastal Plain. In an attempt to better identify potential ASS hotspots, DEC has contracted CSIRO to conduct aerial hyperspectral remote sensing, soil sampling and analysis of large areas of the WA coastline.

Acid sulfate soils (ASS) is the common housing estates and roads, digging drop to the bottom of waterways name given to soils containing iron sulfides. drainage channels in agricultural areas and leaving the water clear; In Australia during the last major sea level lowering of the groundwater table. • yellow-brown water – indicates iron; rise 10,000 years ago, coastal landscapes It is important ASS areas are recognised to • iron flocs – usually a red-brown or formed through rapid sedimentation. avoid them being inadvertently disturbed brown-yellow colour present Bacteria in these organically rich, during digging. Dominant vegetation in throughout the water; waterlogged sediments converted sulfate high ASS risk areas includes tea tree, from tidal waters, and iron from the • blue-green water – indicates soluble paperbark, salt sheoak, flooded gums, sediments, to iron sulfide minerals (pyrite). aluminium and iron; and samphire, mangroves, saltcouch, • milky-white water – also an indication ASS are found in waterlogged swampy Phragmites sp. (a tall acid tolerant grass) of aluminium particles. environments, particularly near the coast, and swamp tolerant reeds and rushes. including dark organic rich soils and Mapping ASS muds, peaty wetland soils, some pale grey Signs and symptoms DEC’s hyperspectral imaging project is sands (Bassendean sands and Spearwood Once an ASS is disturbed, the sulfuric acid being funded by the Natural Heritage Trust. sands) and coffee rock (cemented iron generated can have a dramatic impact on This innovative remote sensing technology, and/or organic rich sands) found below soil and water quality. On-ground commonly used by the mining industry, will the watertable. indications include: collect spatially comprehensive data from These soils are harmless while in an • stunted or dead vegetation; areas difficult to access using more undisturbed, waterlogged state but once • acid scalds – bare patches appear traditional field site surveys. disturbed the sulfide minerals react with where the top soil is salty or acid; This new data, along with soil sampling oxygen in the air to form sulfuric acid. The • iron monosulfides – gooey black and laboratory analysis, will be used to acid generated leads to the degradation of sediments formed in low oxygen enhance current ASS risk maps and better surface and groundwater quality and scalds environments; and pinpoint vulnerable ASS areas in several the land. It can also cause fish kills, iron • jarosite – yellow mineral indicating iron coastal regions of the State. staining and corrosion to steel and sulfides in ASS are oxidising and DEC is publishing a series of fact sheets concrete infrastructure. The acidic water forming sulfuric acid. This is associated and guidelines to assist with the often has high concentrations of arsenic with a rotten egg gas smell. and heavy metals that can cause severe identification, investigation environmental problems if discharged into Similarly, there are a range of indicators to and management of ASS waterways or leached into groundwater. look for in surface and groundwater: in WA. ASS risk maps Activities that might disturb ASS areas • crystal clear water – high levels of are available at include earthworks for canal developments, aluminium can cause soil particles to www.dec.wa.gov.au/ass.

Left: Dead vegetation and acid scald at Muchea as a result of ASS. Right: Water containing iron flocculants (bright orange) overlaying gooey black sediments (iron monosulphide) formed in low oxygen environments at Baigup. Photos – ASS Section/DEC

10 Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature Autumn 2008

GROUPPROFILE:

Friends of Lake Gwelup By Wayne Eddy

THE FRIENDS of Lake Gwelup is a volunteer community group that dedicates its time and experience to educating the general public, passing observations on to local government and other local groups, weeding and revegetating the reserve.

Lake Gwelup is a 73-hectare C-class reserve (Bush Forever site 212) located approximately 15 kilometres north of Perth in the City of Stirling. It includes 18 hectares of open water surrounded by mostly degraded bushland and is home to six native mammal species, 40 reptile and amphibian species and 125 native birds (mostly visiting migratory water birds). A total of 80 native plant species have been recorded on the reserve. One plant species (Jacksonia sericea) was recorded in the City of Stirling’s Lake Gwelup Reserve Environmental Management Plan 1992 and is identified by DEC as a Priority 4 Taxa. Due to the area having been utilised as market garden, an exercise area for horses and at times a dumping ground for garden waste, some 51 weed species have been identified on-site. David Pike called for the first meeting of the Friends of Lake Gwelup in 1994 following strong interest from the local community and groups such as the Gwelup Progress Association, the Wildflower Society of WA and the (From left) Betty Murphy, Phylis Robertson (walk leader), Robert and Jennifer Karrinyup–Gwelup Reserve’s Advisory Committee. Since the Eddy inspecting Dianella sp. in Lake Gwelup Reserve. Photo – Wayne Eddy group’s inception, David Pike and Phylis Roberston have dedicated one Saturday morning a month to leading educational walks at the reserve. Twice a year – one in winter and another in spring – night walks are held to record the activities of nocturnal fauna such as frogs, owls and reptiles. In spring, ‘Bush Care Days’ are held to target the control of specific weed species. In earlier years, a lot of time and energy was put into clearing lupins and now only sparsely scattered patches remain. Future weeding efforts may concentrate more closely on Gladiolus sp. The group’s key objectives are to return the lake and surrounding bushland, as closely as possible, to its natural condition by: • removing introduced plants and revegetating with local indigenous species; • encouraging the survival of indigenous flora and fauna; • monitoring and helping with the implementation of the management plan; Left: Banksia bee (Hylaeus alcyoneus) collecting pollen from an acorn • lobbying authorities over issues that affect the reserve; and banksia (Banksia prionotes) inflorescence. Right: Rainbow bee-eater (Merops ornatus) holding dragonfly, Lake Gwelup Reserve. Photos – Wayne Eddy • increasing public enjoyment of the area through environmental awareness. implements the management plan. A catchments plan will be Members of the Friends group have contributed to the developed by the North Metro Catchment Group and ongoing development of the management plan, held positions on the water quality tests will be performed to ensure the wetland remains City of Stirling’s Natural Environment Advisory Committee and free from the inflow of toxins. have worked closely with the Friends of Trigg Bushland and the Friends of Star Swamp. The group extends an invitation to all readers to attend the In 2008, the group anticipates the Urban Bushland Council and committee meetings or nature walks. Please contact Wayne Eddy the Perth Urban Bushland Fungi Project will hold the first official (President Friends of Lake Gwelup) on 0407 383 425 or email fungi survey within the reserve following its own introductory [email protected]. For more information visit survey in 2007. The reserve will also benefit from additional http://home.vicnet.net.au/~folg/. The Friends of Lake Gwelup weed control and plantings by the City of Stirling as it newsletter is available electronically or in paper format.

Bushland News Issue 65 - Autumn 2008 www.naturebase.net/urbannature 11 bushland habitats inwhichtheylive. maintaining theforest andwoodland functional role thesecreatures playin reveals little-known factsaboutthecritical fungus-eating habits.Italso and theirunique unusual marsupials lives ofthese into thesecretive extraordinary glimpse provides an $39.95. Thisbook Publishing. RRP and R.Rose.CSIRO A. Claridge,J.Seebeck Rat-kangaroo Bettongs, PotoroosandtheMusky Publications Are yourdetailscorrect? [email protected]. titled ‘emailme’to electronically, sendanemail receive thisnewsletter on 94232914.Ifyou’dprefer to change anythingbyphoningus and letusknowifweneedto Please checkyourmailingdetails Resources PO Box1167,BentleyDeliveryCentre, Kensington,WA 6983 to If notclaimedwithin7days,pleasereturn (2007) news ions/environmental/wetlands/wa16.html. www.environment.gov.au/water/publicat management andeducation.Visit on Australianwetlandconservation, summarises informationandresources annually forthecommunityand wetlands update2008 Wetlands Australia–national http://stormwater.water.wa.gov.au. Phone 63647600orvisit systems, andstructuralmethods. restoration ofnaturalwaterbody education andtraining,retention and at-source controls andinfiltration, end. Managementmethodsinclude stormwater from itssource toocean and guidelinesonhowtomanage of Water 2004–2007 Australia–Department for Western Stormwater ManagementManual www.florabank.org.au. training program. Visit businesses andaproposed seed website, pluscontactsinvarious now hasallitsguidelinesonthe Florabank www.ribbonsofblue.wa.gov.au. and waterwayrestoration. Visit involved inwaterqualitymonitoring program andresource forthose Ribbons ofBlue Website watch Printed on 100% recycled, totally chlorine free (TCF)paperusingvegetable-basedinks. totallychlorinefree Printed on100%recycled, has beenrelaunched and is aneducational contains policies is updated www.yearofthefrog.org/ www.westernwildlife.com.au/frogs/index.htm Research/2008-Year-of-the-Frog/ www.perthzoo.wa.gov.au/Conservation-- learn_frogs.asp www.museum.wa.gov.au/frogwatch/pages/ www.frogsaustralia.net.au/ www.amphibianark.org/yearofthefrog.htm [email protected]. program. Phone97957780oremail Educational talks,tadpoleexchange The Frog Doctor, JohnnyPrefumo. CALM. Dell. rains–atadpolebonanzabyJohn Winter and FrogsofthePerthRegion Robinson, D.(1995) Bush, B.,Maryan,Brown-Cooper, R.& Australian Museum. Building FrogFriendlyGardens Aplin, K.,Paino,A.&Sleep,L.(2000) Frog resources or http://spatial.agric.wa.gov.au/wetlands/. www.naturebase.net/content/view/981/987/ have beenaddedorupdated.Visit threatened speciesandcoastaldatasets Aboriginal heritagesites,waterfowlcounts, WetlandBase Statewide Wetlands Database– Ecoplan News has beenupdated.Fauna, Issue 54 Winter 2005. Issue 54Winter A GuidetoReptiles Autumn UT 6000 AUST. POSTAGE PERTH WEST. . UWA Press. PAID . Western 2008

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