Annual report 2000-2001

NPWS mission

NSW national Parks & Wildlife service 2

Contents

Director-General’s foreword 6 3 Conservation management 43 Working with Aboriginal communities 44 Overview 8 Joint management of national parks 44 Mission statement 8 Performance and future directions 45 Role and functions 8 Outside the reserve system 46 Partners and stakeholders 8 Voluntary conservation agreements 46 Legal basis 8 Biodiversity conservation programs 46 Organisational structure 8 Wildlife management 47 Lands managed for conservation 8 Performance and future directions 48 Organisational chart 10 Ecologically sustainable management Key result areas 12 of NPWS operations 48 Threatened species conservation 48 1 Conservation assessment 13 Southern Regional Forest Agreement 49 NSW Biodiversity Strategy 14 Caring for the environment 49 Regional assessments 14 Waste management 49 Wilderness assessment 16 Performance and future directions 50 Assessment of vacant Crown land in north-east 19 Managing our built assets 51 Vegetation surveys and mapping 19 Buildings 51 Wetland and river system survey and research 21 Roads and other access 51 Native fauna surveys and research 22 Other park infrastructure 52 Threat management research 26 Thredbo Coronial Inquiry 53 Cultural heritage research 28 Performance and future directions 54 Conservation research and assessment tools 29 Managing site use in protected areas 54 Performance and future directions 30 Performance and future directions 54 Contributing to communities 55 2 Conservation planning 31 Contribution to sustainable rural and regional Biodiversity planning 32 development 55 Establishment of parks and reserves 34 Tourism 55 Declaration of Aboriginal Areas and Places 36 Weed management programs 56 Plans of management 37 Pest animal management programs 58 Threatened species planning 39 Regional programs 59 Cultural heritage planning 40 Fire management 59 Marine park planning 41 Performance and future directions 62 Other conservation planning 41 Performance and future directions 42 3 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

4 Conservation facilitation 63 Improved efficiency and support for service delivery 85 Fostering commitment to natural and cultural heritage 64 Financial management 85 Acknowledging people’s contributions to conservation 64 Risk management 85 Educational programs 64 Insurance 86 Wildmaps of western New South Wales 69 Information management and technology 86 Wildlife management manual for the Riverine Plains 69 Corporate governance 87 NPWS library 69 Performance and future directions 89 Visitor centres 69 Enhancing and managing resources for conservation 89 Media and promotions 70 Grants and sponsorships 89 Performance and future directions 72 Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife 90 Increasing community involvement in conservation 72 NSW Nature Conservation Trust 90 Volunteer and community programs 72 Revolving fund 90 Performance and future directions 73 Joint funding initiatives 91 Enhancing people’s enjoyment of Natural Heritage Trust 91 NPWS parks 74 Park use fees 91 2000 Olympics 74 Concessions management 92 Visitor and market research 75 Performance and future directions 92 Performance and future directions 75 Supporting community conservation 6 Appendices 93 activities 75 A NPWS-managed lands at 30 June 2001 94 Information services 75 B Significant statutory bodies and committees 99 Support for community initiatives 76 C Infringements and prosecutions 105 Conservation partnerships 77 D Consultants engaged 106 Performance and future directions 80 E Employee statistics 107 F Performance statement: Director-General 110 5 Capacity building 81 G Statement of Affairs and Freedom of Information 111 Attracting, developing and retaining a skilled workforce 82 H New NPWS publications 113 Learning and development 82 I Papers published by NPWS staff 115 Aboriginal heritage training 82 J Overseas visits by NPWS staff 118 Performance management 82 7 Financial statements 119 Workforce diversity and EEO 83 Notes to and forming part of financial statements 128 Employment and industrial relations 83 Other financial information 144 Occupational health and safety 84 Performance and future directions 84 Index of statutory requirements 148 Working as a cohesive and informed team 84 Contact information 149 Performance and future directions 84 4

Bald Rock National Park 5 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT P Green/NPWS

The Hon. Bob Debus, MP Minister for the Environment Level 25 59-61 Goulburn Street Sydney NSW 2000

Dear Minister

I have pleasure in presenting the thirty-third Annual Report for the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service for the year ended 30 June 2001, in accordance with the Annual Reports (Departments) Act 1985.

Yours sincerely

Brian Gilligan Director-General 6

Director-General’s foreword

Over the past year the NSW • completion of the Southern Comprehensive Region National Parks and Wildlife Assessment Service (NPWS) has renewed its • establishment of the Nature Conservation Trust focus on conservation planning • management of the significantly increased Dunphy and building better relationships Wilderness Fund with communities. • dedication of the Mount Drysdale Aboriginal Place Being located in regional centres • publication of a handbook Pilaarrkiyalu of the Cobar and in country towns across the Peneplain: Ngiyampaa traditional uses of plants and animals state enables us to actively assist • negotiation of the 100th voluntary conservation agreement community groups plan • implementation of the outcomes of Walker Report on conservation programs and Thredbo and the management of resorts in Kosciuszko activities within a regional National Park. context, thus moving beyond the • production of A Resource Worth Protecting: An information formal reserve system. kit for licensed tour operators and tour guides in national parks and reserves There is an increasing level of community interest in our work • signing of a memorandum of understanding with and the community justifiably has very high expectations of recreational 4WD clubs. the NPWS with community concern about animal welfare and pest control a clear example of this interest. Involving local The year 2000-2001 has also seen the consolidation of the new communities in the decision-making process facilitates the organisational structure, an increased focus on working with the development of a shared vision for conservation in NSW. community, and the integration of our three conservation themes into all strategic and operational plans. These themes are: In 1999-2000 a new NPWS corporate plan was established for the period 2000 to 2003. In this, the second year of the • movement beyond the formal reserve system, towards corporate plan, work on the priorities identified in the plan achieving conservation goals across the whole landscape continued and a number of new programs were initiated. • management of the reserve system within a regional landscape context This year’s range of achievements includes: • enhancement of the reserve system. • contribution to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games by hosting The scale and complexity of the role of the NPWS continues venues and providing logistical support, expertise and to grow and building our capacity to manage complex and volunteers constantly changing issues is becoming increasingly important. • the inscription of the Greater Blue Mountains World More than 5.5 million hectares is now in reserves managed by Heritage Area the NPWS. We are involved in more than 300 research • publication of the Biodiversity Planning Guide for NSW programs and have thousands of cooperative conservation Local Government and the Community Biodiverisity programs, including nearly 900 cooperative feral pest control Survey Manual programs. • continuing to build the reserve system in the west of the State 7 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

The community and government require us to demonstrate cost contribute to conservation through their voluntary work with effectiveness in our programs. The NPWS contributes valuable NPWS, and to thank our fundraising specialist, the Foundation expertise and information to enhance the economic viability of for National Parks and Wildlife. programs and sites and to convey the important contribution My thanks also go to all staff for their dedication and conservation can make to the economy of the state. commitment throughout what has been for some a difficult To strengthen our capacity to plan and deliver strategic year, and for all a busy year. In particular I wish to outcomes a management program to foster team building has acknowledge those who have been involved in the investigation been implemented with all managers and is now being tailored of the Ku-ring-gai fire tragedy, and in supporting the for other key staff. We are also using working groups to colleagues, friends and families of those who were injured and identify statewide issues of significance and provide policy those who lost their lives. and operational input. The NPWS is a larger and stronger organisation than it was Many staff received national and international recognition for 12 months ago. We have consolidated many changes, rebuilt the excellence of their work. For example Dr Bob Pressey, where we needed to, and extended our role in conservation Principal Research Scientist, was awarded the Society of across the landscape, working with communities to build a Conservation Biology Edward T. LaRoe III Award – for shared vision for natural and cultural heritage conservation in making an outstanding contribution to the application of NSW. I look forward to continuing this process with staff and science to nature conservation. This is the first time that the communities and I know that we will face the challenges of the award has gone to a scientist outside the USA. Dr Richard next year with dedication and commitment, as well as an Kingsford, Principal Research Scientist, was awarded the enhanced capacity to succeed. prestigious POL Eureka environmental research prize for his work on waterbirds and river ecology in the wetlands of western NSW. The 2001 Energy National Trust Heritage Awards commended the adaptive reuse of Fort Denison in Sydney Harbour National Park, and Lighthouse in . The NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre received an Award of Distinction in the State Tourism Brian Gilligan Awards and a number of other NPWS entries were finalists, Director-General including Montague Island Tours. The NPWS is supported by many organisations and individuals, in particular by the efforts of the members of the National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council and Advisory Committees. In this International Year of Volunteers, I would like to acknowledge the many thousands of people who 8

Overview

Mission statement Under the Wilderness Act 1987 NPWS is responsible for the investigation, protection and management of wilderness Working with people and communities to protect and conserve in NSW. natural and cultural heritage in the NSW landscape In addition, the Marine Parks Act 1997 established the Marine Parks Authority, which comprises the Director-General of the Role and functions Premier’s Department (chairperson), the Director-General of the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Director of The role of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is Fisheries. The Authority reports to the Minister for the to lead the community in the development of a system of Environment and the Minister for Fisheries, and undertakes ecologically sustainable and integrated landscape management functions imposed or conferred by the Marine Parks Act 1997, which conserves nature and cultural heritage and has as its the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, and the Fisheries centrepiece the public reserve system. Management Act 1994. The Authority is responsible for The functions of the NPWS are: declaring and managing activities in marine parks for the • to ensure the conservation of protected native animals and purposes of conserving marine biological diversity, plants throughout NSW maintaining the function of marine ecosystems and permitting ecologically sustainable use. • to protect and manage Aboriginal sites, objects and places of special significance to Aboriginal people • to promote community awareness, understanding and Organisational structure appreciation of the conservation of nature and our The NPWS is a highly decentralised organisation, with some cultural heritage 75 per cent of staff based in the field. The NPWS structure • to investigate and acquire land for inclusion in a system of comprises four corporate directorates based at Hurstville and national parks and nature reserves to conserve a complete four field directorates which have their main centres in range of the natural environment of the state Grafton, , Parramatta and Dubbo. • to manage historic places within the NPWS estate and to acquire historic places of significance The field directorates incorporate 19 regions, made up of more • to manage these areas and culturally significant features for than 50 areas, with offices located in local towns. There are also a number of visitor information centres and works depots enjoyment and conservation strategically located to meet the needs of the community and • to identify, protect and manage wilderness throughout to manage protected areas. NSW. Field directorates are responsible for achieving the Partners and stakeholders conservation of natural, historic and Aboriginal heritage at a local and regional level, not only with respect to park and NPWS partners and stakeholders are a large and diverse group. reserve planning and management, but across their geographic They include park visitors, educators, neighbours, rural area of operation. To do this, field directorates develop landholders, industry, conservation groups, recreational use partnerships with the community and other governments and groups, Aboriginal communities, volunteers, the media, agencies, and provide leadership and direction through government departments and other agencies such as local conservation programs in accord with government initiatives councils and tourism associations. and NPWS priorities. Corporate directorates coordinate the development and Legal basis review of Service-wide priorities, policies, standards, systems and procedures; provide policy advice to the executive and the The basis for the powers, duties and functions of the NPWS is Minister for the Environment; advise and support field the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, the Wilderness Act directorates on policy, technical, educational, communication, 1987, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and the marketing and administrative matters; and provide Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. legal advice. Under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 the Director- The NPWS organisational structure at 30 June 2001 is shown General of the National Parks and Wildlife Service is by the chart on page 10. responsible for the care, control and management of all areas reserved or dedicated as national parks, historic sites, nature reserves, Aboriginal areas and state game reserves. State Lands managed for conservation recreation areas, karst conservation reserves and regional parks Under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 there are eight are also administered under the Act. The Director-General is categories of land managed for conservation – national parks, also responsible, under this Act and certain provisions of the nature reserves, historic sites, Aboriginal areas, state game Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, for the protection reserves, karst conservation areas, state recreation areas and and care of native fauna and flora and Aboriginal places and regional parks. relics throughout NSW. 9 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Members of the NPWS executive. Standing from left: Dawn Easton, Executive Officer to Director-General; John O’Gorman, Director Northern; Arthur Diakos, Director Corporate Services; Bob Conroy, Director Central; Sally Barnes, Director Education and Community Programs; Tony Fleming, Director Southern. Seated: Michael Wright, Director Policy and Science; Vivienne Ingram, Director Legal Services; Brian Gilligan, Director-General; Terry Korn, Director Western.

National parks are relatively large areas of land set aside for National parks and historic sites are managed in such a way their predominantly unspoiled natural landscape, flora and that their natural and cultural features are conserved while still fauna. They are permanently reserved for conservation and for allowing visitors to use and enjoy them. State recreation areas public education and recreation and, apart from essential and regional parks are managed to maximise their recreational management, are preserved in their natural state. potential while preserving and protecting their natural features. Nature reserves are areas of special scientific interest, Because nature reserves and Aboriginal sites are conserved for containing wildlife or natural features. Management practices scientific and cultural values and are small in area, public aim at maximising the value of the area for scientific access is often limited. investigation and educational purposes. At 30 June 2001 5,387,102 hectares were reserved under the Historic sites are areas of national importance that are National Parks and Wildlife Act. This represents approximately preserved, and include buildings, objects, monuments or 6.7 per cent of the total land area of NSW. landscapes. Summary of land reserved at Aboriginal areas are places of significance to Aboriginal 30 June 2001 people or sites containing relics of Aboriginal culture. Category How many Area (ha) State game reserves are areas set aside for propagating National parks 161 4,442,200 game species. Nature reserves 359 794,877 Karst conservation reserves are areas managed to protect Historic sites 13 2,635 significant surface and underground land formations in Aboriginal areas 11 11,643 karst regions. State recreation areas 22 126,368 Regional parks 10 4,970 State recreation areas are lands reserved for outdoor Karst conservation areas 4 4,409 recreation and enjoyment. Total area 5,387,102 Regional parks are areas substantially modified since European occupation that offer open space and recreational A full list of lands managed for conservation and other NPWS opportunities for major regional population centres. lands appears at Appendix A. continued page 12 10

Organisational chart Structure of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service as at 30 June 2001

MINISTER FOR THE Director-General Manager Strategic & Executive Services Unit ENVIRONMENT BRIAN GILLIGAN Dawn Easton

Director Central Director Northern Director Southern Director Western BOB CONROY JOHN O’GORMAN TONY FLEMING TERRY KORN

Manager Conservation Programs & Manager Conservation Programs & Manager Conservation Programs & Manager Conservation Programs & Planning Division Planning Division Planning Division Planning Division Russell Couch Gary Davey Ian Pulsford John Pickard Units Units Units Units Conservation Planning Conservation Assessment & Data Conservation Assessment & Data Conservation Assessment & Conservation Assessment & Data Conservation Planning Conservation Planning Planning Threatened Species Threatened Species Community Programs Threatened Species Reserve Conservation Western Regional Assessments Manager Manager Blue Mountains Region Threatened Species Geoff Luscombe Robert Quirk Manager Central West Region Areas Areas Manager Far South Coast Region Nick Rigby Hawkesbury Barrington Tops Tim Shepherd Areas Kanangra Great Lakes Areas Lachlan Mudgee Hunter Coast Bombala Macquarie Upper Mountains Upper Hunter Central Manager Far West Region Unit Unit Steve Millington Operations Coordination & Support Operations Coordination & Support North Areas Unit Manager Region Broken Hill Manager Central Coast Operations Coordination & Support Hunter Range Region Greg Croft Lower Darling Tom Bagnat Areas Manager Resorts Division Tibooburra Areas Hastings Penny Spoelder Manager Northern Plains Region Gosford Macleay Units Wayne Dornbusch Hunter Range Manning Concessions & Leasing Areas Lakes Unit Health & Building Coonabarabran Yango Operations Coordination & Support Municipal Services Narrabri Unit Planning & Environment Manager North Coast Region Operations Coordination & Support Manager Region Alan Jeffery Manager South Coast Region Ross McDonnell Manager Sydney Region Areas Diane Garrood Jennifer Carter Clarence North Areas Manager Upper Darling Region Areas Clarence South Highlands Ken Jurotte Cumberland North Coffs Coast Nowra/ Area Cumberland South Dorrigo Plateau Ulladulla Cobar Harbour North Unit Unit Harbour South Operations Coordination & Support Operations Coordination & Support Directorate Unit Unit Western Directorate Operations Manager Region Manager South-West Slopes Region Operations Coordination & Support Coordination & Support Mark Johnston Steve Horsley Manager Sydney North Region Areas Areas Chris McIntosh Kyogle Murrumbidgee Areas Queanbeyan Tweed Riverina-Highlands Lower Hawkesbury Unit Unit Northern Beaches Operations Coordination & Support Operations Coordination & Support Unit Manager Region Manager Region Operations Coordination & Support Bob Friederich Dave Darlington Manager Sydney South Region Areas Areas Mike Patrick Armidale Alpine Areas Glen Innes East Glen Innes West Upper Murray Walcha Units Royal Unit Operations Coordination & Support Unit Operations Coordination & Support Business Management Operations Coordination & Support Roads Directorate Unit Directorate Units Northern Directorate Operations Directorate Unit Central Directorate Operations Coordination & Support Southern Directorate Operations Coordination & Support Coordination & Support Flight Services Regional Parks 11 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Director Education and Director Policy and Science Director Corporate Services Director Legal Services Community Programs MICHAEL WRIGHT ARTHUR DIAKOS VIVIENNE INGRAM SALLY BARNES

Manager Biodiversity Research & Manager Education & Community Manager Business Development Units Management Division Involvement Unit Division Legal Operations Caroline Lemerle Lynn Webber David Roman Policy & Law Units Units Manager Marketing & Information Biodiversity Research Group Business Analysis Division Biodiversity Management Business Operations Andrew Mitchell Pest Management Coordination New Business Projects Units Wildlife Management Coordination Library Manager Finance Division Scientific Committee/BDAC National Parks Centre Clarel Castagnet Support Publications Units Manager Strategic Policy Division Visitor & Tourism Marketing Administrative Services Angela Langdon Corporate Finance Manager Ministerial Liaison Unit Units Management Accounting Sandra Everett Conservation Economics System Support Major Programs Manager Public Affairs Division Finance Service Centres Policy Development Group Chris Perkins Manager Information Management & Manager Cultural Heritage Division Directorate Unit Technology Division Jason Ardler Directorate Management Support Muhammad Khan Units Units Cultural Heritage Policy & Information Systems Programs Operations & Support Cultural Heritage Information Systems User Support Cultural Heritage Research Records Management Central Aboriginal Heritage Manager Workforce Services Division Northern Aboriginal Heritage Helen Anderson Southern Aboriginal Heritage Units Western Aboriginal Heritage Employee Relations & Conditions Manager Geographic Information Human Resource Information Systems Group Systems Malcolm Stephens Occupational Health & Safety Workforce Development Manager Landscape Conservation Workforce Planning Division Human Resources Service Centres Jo White Units Conservation Assessment & Priorities Conservation Management Conservation Planning Fire Management Directorate Unit Directorate Management Support 12 Overview

Other protected areas Conservation planning covers the making of judgments about Six other types of areas are identified for protection under the what to conserve (priorities for conservation) and how best to do M Cufer/NPWS provisions of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. this, and the development of processes by which this is done. Aboriginal places are areas of significance to Aboriginal Conservation management covers the management of natural culture which, after gazettal, have the full protection of the and cultural heritage values across the state, incorporating: National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. • conservation incentives, education and advice Protected archaeological areas contain significant Aboriginal • regulation and enforcement relics and are declared with the consent of the owner or • the nurture and rehabilitation of the natural and cultural occupier of the land on which they occur. They may be opened heritage landscape, including protected areas and beyond for public inspection with the owner’s consent, under • the establishment of appropriate reserves conditions designed to protect the Aboriginal relics they • the ecologically sustainable use of protected areas. contain. Conservation facilitation covers the encouragement and Wildlife refuges are declared over Crown land and privately support of community stewardship of the natural and cultural owned land with the owner’s consent to preserve, conserve, heritage across the landscape, and the sharing of appreciation propagate and study wildlife and to conserve, study and and enjoyment of this heritage. simulate natural environments. Capacity building covers the development and retention of Wildlife management areas (formerly game reserves) are committed and skilled staff, and the development and declared over private or Crown land for game conservation in implementation of policies, systems and procedures to ensure its broadest sense, including game hunting for recreation that NPWS is an effective organisation focused on the during a proclaimed period. achievement of conservation outcomes for NSW. Conservation areas may cover privately or publicly owned Allocation of resources to key land with the consent of the owner and, in accord with the result areas conservation agreement for the area, may protect natural or Net cost of services 2000-2001 cultural features, wilderness or areas of special scientific interest. Conservation agreements are registered and run with the title of the land. Conservation facilitation 41%

Wilderness protection agreement areas under the Conservation assessment 14% Wilderness Act 1987 may cover land owned or controlled by a statutory authority or government department to protect and Conservation planning 12% provide for management of wilderness outside the park and reserve system. Conservation management 33% Key result areas Net cost of services in relation to capacity building is The NPWS Corporate Plan 2000-2003 adopts a holistic subsumed under other key result areas. approach to conservation which integrates natural, cultural and community values. This approach to conservation is described as ‘landscape conservation’, and involves working to achieve conservation outcomes across all lands, not only those managed by NPWS. Achievement of landscape conservation is dependent on outcomes in four key areas: assessment, planning, management and facilitation. A fifth key result area – capacity building – is an essential prerequisite. These five key result areas provide the framework for the planning and programming of activities, for annual budget submissions to Treasury and for the evaluation of NPWS performance. Conservation assessment covers the gathering of knowledge, and the development and application of tools and techniques for assessing and monitoring both natural and cultural heritage across the landscape and community conservation attitudes and values. 13 Conservation assessment1

Sulphur-crested cockatoo The gathering of knowledge, and the development and application of tools and techniques for assessing and monitoring both natural and cultural heritage across the landscape and community conservation attitudes and values. 14 1Conservation assessment

Conservation assessment is undertaken to increase 2000-2001 for projects addressing eight of the priority actions understanding of the values and status of natural and cultural under the NSW Biodiversity Strategy, with $1.7 million heritage resources in New South Wales. It enables informed allocated in 2000-2001. This included funds for NPWS decision making by government authorities, land owners and projects to address the following priority actions: managers, and the community across New South Wales. • improve the accessibility of biodiversity information The key objective of NPWS conservation assessment activities • bioregional planning and assessment is to ensure the use of rigorous and systematic policy, science • improve cooperative approaches to weed and pest and assessment as the basis for conservation planning and management management. The emphasis is on relevant, adaptive approaches • manage fire in accordance with ecologically sustainable to the management of natural and cultural resources, linking development (ESD) principles community and conservation values. • develop local Biodiversity Action Plans • implement the Biodiversity Survey Program NSW Biodiversity Strategy Detail on these projects is provided throughout this report. The NSW Biodiversity Strategy is a whole-of-government A copy of the Biodiversity Strategy can be downloaded from initiative which establishes a framework for coordinating and the NPWS website at: www.npws.nsw.gov.au/wildlife/ integrating government and community efforts for the biodiversity.html. Copies can also be obtained from the NPWS conservation of biodiversity across all landscapes in New Information Centre at The Rocks, telephone 1300 361 967 South Wales. The NPWS is responsible for coordinating the within NSW, or 02 9253 4600. implementation of this strategy, and provides secretariat support to the Biodiversity Strategy Implementation Group, an Regional assessments interagency committee which oversees the implementation of projects across government. Integrated Biodiversity Conservation The Biodiversity Strategy focuses on five key themes, around Assessment Program which are organised several priority actions, supporting actions Funds of $2.718 million have been allocated over three years and performance targets. The themes addressed in the through the NSW Biodiversity Strategy for a package of Strategy are: projects under the Integrated Biodiversity Conservation 1. Community consultation, involvement and ownership Assessment (IBCA) Program. This program aims to establish 2. Conservation and protection of biodiversity conservation priorities at the bioregional level through the use 3. Threatening processes and their management of a conservation assessment framework. The resulting 4. Natural resource management priorities will be used to guide reserve establishment and for a 5. Improving our knowledge range of off-reserve conservation programs, including the integration of conservation priorities into natural resource Funding of $5.268 million has been allocated by the plans. The IBCA program also includes a number of projects government over the three years 1998-1999, 1999-2000 and at the statewide level that will enable conservation assessment across a broader scale. Some of these IBCA projects are listed below. NPWS Framework for bioregional assessment A framework was finalised during the year to guide practitioners through the stages of a bioregional or other regional conservation assessment. The framework identifies the fundamental processes which form the basis of these assessments. It also indicates the current state of knowledge, any standards which exist, and, because the situations confronting those undertaking this work will differ, discusses alternative paths to an assessment. The framework is targeted at those responsible for undertaking bioregional assessments or contributing to processes such as regional vegetation management or environmental plans, and catchment management boards. The language used in the framework assumes a level of familiarity with the elements of biodiversity conservation. It identifies processes to facilitate the establishment of meaningful conservation targets. It also outlines some of the tools available to assist practitioners to make decisions on the best configuration for conservation The NSW Biodiversity Strategy involves community consultation with park neighbours and other stakeholders. 15 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

areas, identifies data collection and management issues, and addresses management and monitoring. J Pickard/NPWS Statewide GIS conservation monitoring This project is developing a conservation monitoring system that can be used to chart the progress of conservation management across New South Wales. The collection and refinement of statewide geographic information system (GIS) layers is nearing completion. This information and its statistical analysis will enhance conservation assessment and management in New South Wales by enabling the identification of gaps in the reserve system, measuring reservation bias and identifying future conservation priorities. The project will also assist statewide and national monitoring mechanisms such as State of the Environment, State of the Parks, the National Reserve System Program, the State Reserve System Program and NPWS community conservation programs. One of the highlights of the project is the delineation of subregions across all bioregions in New South Wales.

Ecosystem project This project is delineating the state’s ecosystems using a range of biotic and abiotic features of the landscape. Once the delineation is complete, it will be possible to identify and report on the status of conservation assessment and planning for each ecosystem. The most significant outcome will be a comprehensive synthesis of information gathered from within and outside the NPWS. This information will be contained in a Community Conservation Officer Michele Cooper studies a bearded dragon as part of the linked database accessible to a wider audience. The database Darling Riverine Plains bioregional assessment. will be particularly useful in cases where specific features of an ecosystem are of interest and will be an extremely useful employees, local communities, land managers, conservation tool for future conservation planning. planners and all levels of government and industry.

Bioregional overviews Darling Riverine Plains bioregional assessment New South Wales contains a diverse range of landscapes, The Darling Riverine Plains coarse-level bioregional vegetation, geology and other features. A broad framework for conservation assessment is a three-year project to be assessing these landscapes has been established through the completed by March 2002. In 2000-2001 flora and fauna process known as the Interim Bioregionalisation of Australia surveys were taken in the Darling Riverine Plains bioregion, an (IBRA). In New South Wales, four of these bioregions are well area covering 94,000 square kilometres and stretching from represented in reserves and off-park conservation areas. Moree to Menindee. The local community and landholders These include the fertile, high rainfall coastal areas of the were involved in these surveys. The information resulting from , the , and the arid zone desert this project will be used by communities for the development landscapes in the Tibooburra Downs region. The landscapes of regional vegetation, catchment and river management plans. that are not well reserved and do not adequately conserve The survey results will also be used to target conservation biodiversity include those occurring on the tablelands, slopes efforts in the bioregion and to work with landholders to and plains. These bioregions have mostly been highly altered conserve biodiversity on their properties. and impacted by threatening processes, including vegetation Nandewar bioregional assessment clearing, intensive agriculture, irrigation and mining. Of the 14 bioregions in New South Wales, Nandewar ranks The bioregional overview project has compiled textual fourth in terms of the amount of land clearance. The Nandewar snapshots of the characteristics and conservation significance bioregional assessment is the first project to examine the of each bioregion in New South Wales. These snapshots will biodiversity of this region systematically. The assessment will allow a wide audience to appreciate the conservation be completed in three stages, over five years. Stage one, the significance of these landscapes and to understand the future Nandewar Bioregion Scoping Project, is nearing completion challenges for conservation and management of natural following two years of investigation. Stage two, a biodiversity resources in this state. The final report will assist NPWS survey program, will continue for the next two years. 16 Conservation assessment

The initial survey results have already increased the knowledge within the Cobar Peneplain, the methods used by the project to of biodiversity in the bioregion. Outcomes from the assessment survey them, and ways in which landowners can manage their will be used by community and government stakeholders and properties to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems. provide the capacity to undertake informed land evaluations of different conservation options. Key habitats and habitat corridors in north-east New South Wales South-West Slopes The NPWS has completed derivation and mapping of key A scoping study for a conservation assessment of the south- habitats and corridors throughout northern New South Wales. west slopes was undertaken between May 2000 and February The results are being used by regional vegetation committees, 2001. The bioregion contains 16 per cent native vegetation water advisory committees and catchment management boards. cover. Vegetation communities dominated by yellow box, Key habitats and corridors have also been derived for the Blakely’s red gum, white box, red box and grey box generally Eurobodalla area catchment and Cumberland Plains. occur at less than 10 per cent of their pre-European distribution. A study using high-resolution satellite imagery * found that small remnants represent a substantial proportion of Wilderness assessment the remaining vegetation of these communities. Approximately Wilderness is defined as a large natural area of land which, two-thirds of the bioregion’s vegetation has not been mapped together with its native plant and animal communities, is in a to a standard that is suitable for a comprehensive bioregional relatively natural state. This means it has not been substantially assessment and those that have been mapped are biased modified by non-indigenous human activity, or if it has been towards reserves and state forests. A pilot study investigating modified, is capable of restoration. The Wilderness Act 1987 methods for mapping native vegetation on the slopes was provides for the identification, declaration and management of undertaken as part of this scoping exercise. The draft report for wilderness and promotes public education on wilderness. this project has been prepared. The Act requires the Director-General of the NPWS to report on the status of areas of New South Wales identified as Other IBCA Program projects commenced in wilderness and on matters relating to such areas. Information 2000-2001 on past NPWS activities in this regard is contained in previous Other projects which began in 2001 include: NPWS annual reports. • scoping for a bioregional conservation assessment for The wilderness process Brigalow Belt South is to be completed in 2001 • development of a framework for assessing conservation Wilderness proposals priorities in Sydney region is to be completed in 2001 Under the provisions of section 7 of the Wilderness Act 1987, • development of a coarse level statewide mapping of native any person, body or organisation may submit a written vegetation coverage in New South Wales, drawing on proposal that an area of land be identified or declared as existing information, is to be completed in 2001 wilderness. The NPWS can also assess an area for wilderness Cobar Peneplain biogeographic region values independent of any proposal. The Director-General of the NPWS is required to provide advice to the Minister for the The Cobar Peneplain Bioregional Assessment and Planning Environment in respect of any wilderness proposal within Project completed its report series in early 2001. The nine two years. documents produced will be released widely, and should make a significant contribution to the management of biodiversity In June 2000, the NPWS received a wilderness proposal which and ecosystems in the Cobar Peneplain biogeographic region. nominated a package of lands which incorporated much of the area that had been assessed as part of the recent southern The handbook Pilaarrkiyalu of the Cobar Peneplain: New South Wales comprehensive regional assessment (CRA) Ngiyampaa traditional uses of plants and animals was (see below). The NPWS will make a decision on this proposal launched by the Minister for the Environment in April 2001 at when the wilderness component of this CRA is finalised. the Mt Grenfell Historic Site, 50 kilometres north-west of Cobar. It was warmly received by both the Aboriginal and A proposal for additions to the Grattai wilderness at Mount broader community, and is being distributed widely. Kaputar was received in July 2000. The proposal has since The handbook details the cultural history, language, and been accepted and the area will be assessed jointly with an traditional ecological knowledge and use of animals and plants earlier proposal for additions to the Nandewar and Rusden from the Pilaarrkiyalu people’s homeland west of Cobar. wilderness areas, also in the area.

The Fauna of Western New South Wales: the Cobar Peneplain *In 2001 NPWS adopted a standardised method of calculating and reporting on Biogeographic Region is another important resource produced wilderness statistics, using the NPWS digital mapping system. The figures for by the project, and is the third report in the Fauna of Western wilderness areas quoted in this report will therefore be inconsistent with those of previous years, where data were derived from a variety of sources. New South Wales series. Employing a user-friendly style, this report details the fauna and major vegetation communities 17 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT M Ewijk Van

Morton National Park: significant areas of the park were identified as part of the Southern Wilderness Assessment Report and are currently being assessed for declaration as wilderness.

No other wilderness nominations were received during the The 2000-2001 period has seen the completion of major 2000-2001 year; however a preliminary assessment of the wilderness assessments in northern and southern New South wilderness values of Yengo and Murruin was undertaken as Wales. The comprehensive regional assessments for upper and part of the lower north-east and southern CRA wilderness lower north-east, and for southern New South Wales included a assessments. A wilderness assessment report for Yengo study of each regions’ wilderness values, regardless of tenure. is expected to be released for public comment before the As a result, substantial areas have been identified as end of 2001. wilderness. A decision on wilderness declarations will be made following public exhibition of the assessment reports and Wilderness identification and declaration consideration of public submissions. Once an area is proposed as wilderness, the NPWS investigates it to determine whether it is capable of being Identified and declared wilderness identified as wilderness. The area must be in a substantially areas at 30 June 2001 natural state, be large enough to maintain this natural state and Wilderness protection agreements and conservation provide opportunities for solitude and self-reliant recreation. agreements are voluntary agreements made between the Areas meeting all three criteria may be identified as wilderness Minister for the Environment and other parties that own or by the Director-General of the NPWS. The NPWS then manage land. These agreements place certain restrictions over assesses whether the area is suitable to be managed as the management of the subject area. Protection agreements can wilderness. During the suitability assessment phase, identified be made between the Minister and statutory authorities or wilderness areas are overlaid with social, tenure, recreational government departments, and conservation agreements can be and management factors to determine what part, if any, should made between the Minister and private landholders. be declared as wilderness. Only declared wilderness is Any areas declared as wilderness must be managed in ways required by law to be protected and managed as wilderness which retain their wilderness values. Wilderness can be under the Wilderness Act. While private and Crown leasehold declared over NPWS estate, including national parks and lands may be identified as wilderness, identification does not nature reserves and other public lands covered by wilderness constrain land use. protection agreements. Freehold land can only be declared For each wilderness assent, the NPWS prepares a report for wilderness where it is covered by a conservation agreement. public comment, so that the views of the public can be The Wilderness Act allows the declaration of wilderness considered before a decision is made on wilderness outside national parks, nature reserves and government lands declaration. only with the consent of the landholder, and in the case of Crown leasehold the lessee must also consent. Government policy dictates that there can be no resumption of freehold or 18 Conservation assessment

leasehold lands for wilderness purposes. Declaration of offices, local councils, libraries and other community focal wilderness over government lands such as state forest can only points; and meetings with key stakeholders and proceed with the approval of the relevant Minister. interest groups. As at 30 June 2001, 710,606 hectares of NPWS-managed land Wilderness assessments 2000-2001 were identified as wilderness. This is just under 1 per cent of the total NPWS estate. Over the same period, 1,587,744 North-east New South Wales hectares of land was declared as wilderness in New South In north-east New South Wales, 475,876 hectares were Wales, constituting 29 per cent of the total NPWS estate, and 2 proposed for assessment, identification and declaration of per cent of the total land area of New South Wales. These wilderness through individual, government and group areas are listed in Appendix A. submissions. These areas were assessed as part of the Apart from NPWS-managed lands, no wilderness protection wilderness component of the comprehensive regional agreements currently exist over public lands. One small area of assessment for upper north-east (UNE) and lower north-east freehold land in the declared Budawang wilderness is being (LNE) New South Wales. Two rounds of wilderness managed under a voluntary conservation agreement. identification have resulted. Stage 1 was completed in March 2000 and resulted in the identification of 10 wilderness areas Public exhibition and consultation covering a total of 84,243 hectares. Stage 2 was completed in Wilderness assessment reports are publicly exhibited before a May 2001 and resulted in the identification of a further wilderness declaration is made. The NPWS has a continuing 142,131 hectares of wilderness. The results of these commitment to wide-reaching public consultation regarding assessments will be exhibited publicly from 26 July to 20 wilderness identification and declaration. The extensive public September 2001. This component includes: consultation process includes information mailouts to affected • areas identified as wilderness in stages 1 and 2 of the and adjoining landholders; mailouts to regional and state UNE/LNE wilderness assessment interest groups and stakeholders; advertising in local and • the Levers Wilderness, identified in 1997 (15,372 hectares) metropolitan newspapers; poster displays at NPWS regional P. Green/NPWS P.

Werrikimbe National Park: additions to the Werrikimbe Wilderness have been identified in the Northern Wilderness Assessment Report. 19 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• options for wilderness declaration boundaries, which include Vegetation surveys and mapping the above identified wilderness and additional areas which were previously identified and are now able to be considered The NPWS compiles vegetation surveys and mapping which for declaration (58,270 hectares) are vital for management planning of parks and reserves; fire monitoring and management; weed control strategies; and Southern New South Wales effective management of threatened species. NPWS vegetation In 2000 the NPWS completed its wilderness assessment of mapping, which is often unique in its high quality, is also used southern forests, involving the assessment of 314,000 hectares for regional vegetation planning. contained in 20 study areas. These study areas were drawn up Systems and processes are being developed to improve the on the basis of information collected during the comprehensive collection, integration and interpretation of data. These include regional assessment and during the preceding public a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit connected to a hand- consultation phase in 1999. held computer which will enhance field-based data collection On 20 December 2000 the Director-General endorsed the and real-time mapping. Southern Wilderness Assessment Report (SWAR) and Major surveys carried out during the year included: identified 200,484 hectares of wilderness in the southern CRA region. This resulted in six new identification areas plus • Tarengo leek orchid, to find additional populations. the identification of 20 areas adjacent to existing declared As the survey did not find other populations, high priority wilderness. will be assigned to propagation and augmentation of existing populations. The SWAR was placed on public exhibition from March to • Bega wattle (Acacia georgensis), where a survey confirmed May 2001. One of the most comprehensive consultation reports of current locations and documented new programs ever was undertaken during the assessment and populations in the Wadbilliga and areas. exhibition period. The success of this consultation program is • Small purple pea (Swainsona recta) The NPWS continues reflected in the record number of submissions received (over to manage and monitor 32 research plots established in 20,000) and the positive feedback from a diverse range of 1994 to help determine the most appropriate burning community groups and individuals. regimes for the management of this endangered grassland The immediate task in the next financial year is to complete plant. The NPWS also continues to coordinate regular processing of the submissions and log and report on the ecological management burns (with the assistance of local issues raised. A Summary and Analysis of Submissions Report Rural Fire Service brigades) of the rest of the native will then be prepared and presented to the government. grassland on the easement. The government will refer to this report when deciding which • Mongarlowe mallee (Eucalyptus recurva) Surveying has areas of the identified wilderness will be declared under the confirmed the rarity of this species. The species is not Wilderness Act. reproducing in the wild, it produces very little seed, and the seed that is produced has been found to be of hybrid origin. Grose wilderness Some hand cross-pollination work was undertaken between The wilderness process was completed this year for the Grose four of the known plants of the Mongarlowe mallee in an wilderness, resulting in the declaration of almost 38,000 attempt to produce viable seed that could be grown into hectares on 11 May 2001. pure-bred individuals of the species. The success or otherwise of these pollination attempts is not yet known. • East Lynne midge orchid (Genoplesium vernale) Assessment of vacant A joint survey by the NPWS and State Forests produced a Crown land in north-east report which details all data obtained, including the nine New South Wales additional sites supporting the East Lynne midge orchid discovered during this survey. The Forest Agreements for the upper and lower north-east • Tallong midge orchid (Genoplesium plumosum) regions of New South Wales require the NPWS to assess the A detailed population count was conducted at all known conservation values of remaining vacant Crown land and sites of the Tallong midge orchid. Additional surveys of negotiate the establishment of reserves over areas found to likely potential habitat were also undertaken, but only one contain high conservation values. new site supporting this orchid was discovered. The NPWS has assessed the remaining vacant Crown land • Small-leaf pomaderris (Pomaderris elachophylla) and identified a further 38,000 hectares of high conservation Targeted surveys resulted in the identification of three new value. Negotiations are continuing to add these lands to the populations of the species, as well as confirming the reserve system. continued presence of plants at three known localities. These surveys will provide a basis for longer-term monitoring of populations within the state. 20 Conservation assessment

Other vegetation surveys completed during the year included: • New England, Lower Hunter, Budderoo, Maria, Kumbatine, Mebbin, Myall Lakes, Arakwal, Toonumbar, Richmond J Porter/NPWS Range, Hogarth Range, Mallanganee, Mt Warning and Nightcap national parks • , Skillion, Yarravel, Ballina, Billinudgel, Cudgen, Broken Head, Brunswick Heads, Cumbebin Swamp, Ukerebagh, Tweed Estuary, Wooyung, Boatharbour, Stotts Island, Hayters Hill, Tyagarah, Limpinwood, Numinbah, Bluff River and Bolivia Hill nature reserves, Lachlan catchment, Cape Byron State recreation area, and Hainsworth voluntary conservation agreement area • Nandewar bioregion biodiversity study undertaken in the parks and reserves in the Northern Tablelands area Aponogeton queenslandicus, one of four species not previously known in NSW that have been identified as part of a project on aquatic plants of desert river systems. Validating forest ecosystems in the South-West Slopes of New South Wales rehabilitation works, and assist in applications for Landcare Since April 2001 the NPWS has been trialling a method to and other funding. validate the southern CRA forest ecosystem mapping in the new reserves of the south-west slopes of New South Wales. Native grassland surveys This project will also provide information on vegetation that The NPWS has continued a program of surveying sites for will assist in the preparation of plans of management for the grassland and grassy woodlands. The highlights of this survey new reserves. Reporting on the trial phase, which will be program included the discovery of several new species of completed in 2001-2002, will outline and evaluate the orchids, an interesting find of a possibly new Senecio species process used to validate the forest ecosystem mapping, plus and range extensions of the grassland earless dragon into an limitations of the current mapping for management purposes. area south-west of Nimmitabel, and of the button wrinkelwort Most importantly, the report will recommend future work (Rutidosis leptorrhynchoides) south to Michelago. required to update southern CRA forest ecosystem mapping Another project to identify significant grassland species for reserve and fire planning and on-ground management commenced with preliminary analyses of site data from some purposes in the area. 1,000 sites to define what species should be regarded as Rediscovery of rare daisy significant, based on their rarity in the area. This process enables defining of each species under one of five significance The daisy Calotis cuneata var. pubescens was rediscovered in classes (SC), with those species most common being this year by NPWS staff. Although under SC 1 and the rarest under SC 5. This information will not listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, this be essential in assessment of the relative conservation values species has only been collected four times, including three of grassland sites. This is a collaborative project between the times in New South Wales. It is thought to be extinct in NPWS, Environment ACT and the Worldwide Fund . Four small patches of the species were found on an for Nature. isolated grassy plain near Kiandra. Surveys in other similar habitat in the vicinity have failed to find further populations. Aquatic plants of desert river systems It is proposed to give the species the common name of Max Little is known of the biodiversity of plants on inland river Mueller’s burr-daisy, to honour Max Mueller, a German systems and yet they are vitally important for the functioning naturalist who worked in the area and who made a number of of rivers and wetlands. A project commenced which will notable plant collections. determine the aquatic plant biodiversity of inland wetlands and Shire vegetation maps the importance of salinity, turbidity and changing flow regimes for these unique systems. This research has found four species Vegetation mapping to cover Boorowa Shire commenced with not previously recorded in New South Wales (Ruppia tuberosa, some 250 vegetation plots surveyed across the shire using Lepilaena preissii, Aponogeton queenslandicus, Dentella modelling and survey techniques developed during recent minutissima), two of which are endangered and known only surveys for regional forest agreements. From this data maps from on the . will be produced of the existing vegetation and vegetation An undescribed species of Goodenia has also been discovered, prior to clearing. The maps and accompanying report will aid and an algal species rediscovered. in the current review of the local environment plan of the shire, roadside conservation, and protection of threatened species and communities, as well as to guide regeneration and 21 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Wetland and river system management framework for decision-making on environmental survey and research flows for the entire river system. Examining changing water regimes in Mapping wetlands and developing a the Lowbidgee floodplain wetland geographic information system (GIS) for all wetlands in New South The Lowbidgee floodplain includes some of the most Wales important wetland habitat in New South Wales. The wetlands of Pollen Creek floodplain, the Great Cumbung Swamp and There is little information currently on the numbers, location many other wetlands of the confluence of the Murrumbidgee or extent of wetlands across New South Wales, which makes and Lachlan rivers cover an area of 217,000 hectares. effective natural resource management extremely difficult. This huge floodplain area has the capacity to be at least as Given the critical importance of these habitats and the important and possibly more important than the Barmah- considerable pressure currently being placed on them, this Millewa Forest or the Macquarie Marshes. In the past this area project is identifying and digitally mapping all wetlands in regularly supported more than 50,000 waterbirds; however New South Wales. It builds on methodology developed for about 76 per cent of the wetland is now lost or degraded and mapping wetlands in the Murray-Darling Basin. Providing this waterbird numbers have decreased by 80 per cent. During the information as a GIS layer will allow various boundaries to be year a project was conducted to examine the long-term impacts superimposed and spatial analysis to be carried out, for of water resource development on the major waterways. example the conservation status of wetlands. Importantly, it The research found that better conservation of aquatic systems will help determine which wetlands are likely to be dependent around the country is required. A report on the research will be on river flows. The wetland GIS will be linked to a wetland released during the next year. database which will provide data on a number of biological and hydrological issues for each wetland. Wetlands are being Study of the river flows and wetland mapped using satellite imagery data (Landsat MSS and TM). flooding in the Paroo and catchments Database for rivers and wetlands: the Barwon-Darling, Namoi, Gwydir, Paroo, The Paroo and Warrego river systems remain the last major Warrego and Hacking rivers lowland rivers in the Murray-Darling Basin unaffected by river regulation and diversions, and they supply the most extensive This unique software program will revolutionise river floodplain wetland area in the Murray-Darling Basin. management in New South Wales. It provides a critically These wetlands regularly support large and diverse waterbird important tool for making decisions about our rivers and populations. Flooding patterns of the Paroo and Warrego rivers wetlands. The most up-to-date scientific information on river remain largely unmodified but development pressures exist, management is often not easily accessible to river managers with few data on the likely ecological consequences of such and the community because research results are published in development on downstream wetland areas. Using satellite international journals and often focus on general processes imagery over a 20-year period, this project aims to determine rather than specific locations. This database links all the the extent of wetlands dependent on each river system. information on a particular topic which is available for a Relationships between wetland area, river flows and rainfall specific catchment to scientific papers, allowing managers and are being examined to develop models to predict the likely policy makers to identify key references relevant to effective management. The topics available include salinity, hydrology,

fauna and flora, conservation status, culture, history, ground NPWS water, palaeontology and economics. The CD-ROM also has a database of pictures of each river and its wetlands and a video database. All of these are linked to maps of the rivers and wetlands. The project was a finalist in the 2000 National Banksia Environmental Awards for innovation. Studying the impact of changing water regimes on waterbirds in the Macquarie Marshes Good management of river systems is dependent on good information on ecological responses. A project to measure the impacts of changing water regimes on the reproductive success of waterbirds in the Macquarie Marshes was conducted during the year. It used data collected over the past nine years which links flows to breeding events and aims to provide an adaptive The Rivers and Wetlands (WISE) CD-ROM developed by the NPWS provides packages of database, reference and general information about individual river catchments across the state. 22 Conservation assessment

impacts of future water resource management decisions. frogs observed at each of these sites ranged from two to 63 The dynamics of waterbird populations will also be examined individuals, with habitat-use focused on wetland and river in relation to wetland flooding over a four-year period. margins. It was found that little use was made by the frogs of This information will help to ensure that the ecological values pasture improved areas. of the two catchments can be properly accounted for in water management planning. Botany Bay survey of seabirds A survey and analysis of shorebird, migratory wader and North Coast water habitats study other seabird distributions was undertaken around Botany Bay, The North Coast water habitats study investigated, mapped to provide an overview of the status and future of Botany Bay and reported on the location of habitats potentially impacted as habitat for migratory and endemic shorebird species. by water management decisions. The study specifically The project was instigated in response to ongoing concerns investigated and reported on the relative dependence of about the long-term future of at least two of the sites which North Coast habitats on water. It represented the first practical were historically recognised as key wader sites in Botany Bay application of a North Coast bioregional vegetation data set – Towra Point and Penrhyn inlet. The species studied in the (CRAFTI), one of the major products of the comprehensive project are primarily migratory waders subject to a number of regional assessment. The study has been used by North Coast international treaties and conventions to protect them and their water management committees to identify environmental habitats. Historic records of waders in Botany Bay demonstrate assets in each sub-catchment. The reports were presented to dramatic declines in these species over the last 50 years. North Coast water management committees and to the The causes are various, but largely to do with loss of habitat North Coast Wetland Conference at Southern Cross University. due to the construction of industrial infrastructure and The potential exists for further analysis and interpretation of activities such as dredging. the vegetation data, particularly in relation to A number of endemic wader species were also studied in the recommendations for ecologically sustainable management project. While some of these are common species, some are of water resources. either regionally significant, such as the black winged stilt and Implementation of the Allocasuarina double banded plover, or classified as threatened, such as the portuensis recovery plan Terek sandpiper, golden plover and sooty oystercatcher. The shorebird community in one section of Botany Bay, Taren Translocation plantings of Allocasuarina portuensis are well Point, has been classified as an endangered ecological established in Nielsen Park and nearby NPWS reserves. In the community under the Threatened Species Conservation Act. past year funds from the NSW Biodiversity Strategy have been The research being conducted will contribute to recovery used to enlarge the buffer zones around these plantings. planning of these species and ecological communities within Additional areas were prepared by bush regeneration Botany Bay. contractors for further translocation plantings in autumn 2001. The population of translocations now exceeds 100. Outcomes from the project to date include a better understanding of the daily and seasonal movements of shorebirds, improved definition of their micro-habitat Native fauna surveys and research

Gap analysis R Fotheringham The NPWS has developed a systematic approach to identifying and addressing gaps in information on fauna in parks and reserves within a region. The approach will have potential applicability throughout the NPWS. The new approach, based on sophisticated statistical analysis techniques, aims to significantly increase the efficiency of survey work and to improve park and landscape management. Green and golden bell frog Following the rediscovery of the green and golden bell frog (Litoria aurea) on the in April 2000, the University of was contracted to undertake research on the distribution and habitat-use of green and golden bell frogs on the Upper Flats. Frogs were observed On the southern shores of Botany Bay, Towra Point Nature Reserve is recognised as a key at 13 sites within the Molonglo River floodplain – eight site for wading birds. A survey assessed the area’s ongoing suitability as habitat for wetlands, four river sites and one farm dam. The number of migratory and endemic shorebirds. 23 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

preferences, identification of key foraging sites, wader habitat digitising of habitat patches, snow duration indices will be assessment and quantitative analysis of changes in wader derived from LANDSAT imaging. These will be used as one numbers over the last 50 years. of the variables in habitat modelling and for predictions of habitat change and delineation of refuge habitats under climate Predictive koala habitat mapping warming scenarios. project The NPWS undertook a project to derive a predictive koala Southern brown bandicoot habitat map for use in regional vegetation management plans. Surveys for the endangered southern brown bandicoot The project also provided a list of koala browsing trees for (Isoodon obesulus) were undertaken in coastal reserves in each area and provided a process for assessment at a site level. southern New South Wales, resulting in the identification of a The project used an expert panel of koala ecologists to review previously unknown population in . and produce a habitat model. That population is now the subject of a long-term monitoring program. Eastern bristlebird recovery program The northern sub-species of the endangered eastern bristlebird Long-footed potoroo is centred on the QLD/NSW border region. Fewer than 50 In April 2001 a targeted survey for the endangered long-footed individuals have been recorded in northern New South Wales. potoroo (Potorous longipes) in southern New South Wales was National Heritage Trust funding has enabled ongoing research conducted in Tennyson Creek Flora Reserve and immediate into this sub-species. Population monitoring of all known surrounds. Unfortunately, no new occurrences of the species territories is conducted annually. More recently a series of were recorded. long-term vegetation and habitat monitoring sites has been established in a number of territories. These will assist in our Squirrel gliders understanding of this species and its eventual recovery. A survey for the endangered population of squirrel gliders The recovery team involves the NSW NPWS, (Petaurus norfolcensis) in the Wagga Wagga local government Parks and Wildlife Service, Queensland Department of Natural area resulted in identification of breeding colonies of the Resources, Southern Cross University, and various specialists species at three separate locations. Further survey work is and volunteer organisations, all working together to promote planned for 2001-2002, with the aim of establishing whether the long-term survival of this species. these colonies are linked or isolated, and whether the species occurs elsewhere within the general Wagga Wagga area. Threatened reptile surveys Surveys for the threatened grassland reptiles, the striped Corroboree frog legless lizard and grassland earless dragon, were carried out at A significant part of the recovery program for the corroboree a number of sites in the area between Queanbeyan and Bredbo frog is focused on threat management research. One aspect of in southern New South Wales. This work, funded by the this is the effort to identify the threat or threats which have Natural Heritage Trust as part of the ongoing Joint Regional caused the range contraction and drastic decline in numbers of Biodiversity Survey of Grassy Ecosystems, expanded the size the species since the early 1980s. It has been established of the known grassland earless dragon population and beyond doubt that the species suffers high mortality during the distribution at a grassland site near Queanbeyan. It will feed early life-history stages. This appears to be related to some data into the development of a regional grassland conservation aspect of climate, though the exact way this is impacting strategy to be developed in late 2001. remains to be established. It is also possible that the chytrid fungus, implicated in the decline and extinction of other frog Smoky mouse species, may play a part in corroboree frog decline. Research Surveys continued to establish the range of the smoky mouse to clarify this is underway. UV-B radiation has also been in South-East Forest National Park and to monitor population investigated and appears unlikely to have played a role. variation. This year surveys were extended into possible habitat A second major aspect of threat management research for the in Morton, Budawang and Nalbaugh national parks, but no corroboree frog is the recruitment enhancement initiative. smoky mice were trapped in those areas. This is intended to at least halt the decline in numbers at Mountain pygmy-possum selected sites and, ideally, augment population numbers by enhancing survival during the early life-history stages. Trapping and on-site habitat surveys for the mountain pygmy- Eggs are collected from five sites during autumn months and possum across its entire distribution within Kosciuszko transported to the Amphibian Research Centre in Melbourne National Park were completed in summer. This is the fourth where they develop over winter under ideal simulated summer of a project that aims to map and assess the quality of conditions. This has resulted in very high levels of survival of all habitat, and to re-assess the total population size and individuals which are replaced in their natal ponds in the distribution of the species in New South Wales. Following spring. It is expected that next summer, when the first cohort 24 Conservation assessment P Christie/NPWS

NPWS staff members Andy Sharp, Kerry Holmes and Glen O’Donnell conduct an aerial survey of yellow-footed rock wallaby numbers in . Numbers in the park have quadrupled over the last four years.

of these frogs reaches reproductive maturity, increased Woodland birds numbers will be observed returning to breed at these five sites. In 2000 a survey was conducted into the number, habitat The intention of this program is to support the species while range and species of woodland birds. Key findings are that gaining a better understanding of the causes of decline. threatened and declining woodland birds show strong More effective intervention programs can be initiated when relationships with condition, connectivity and amount of these causes are established. remnant woodland. These strong relationships reinforce the Spotted tree frog need to manage for conservation across landscapes, including on private land. Threatened and declining woodland birds Targeted surveys for the endangered spotted tree frog cannot be conserved by managing isolated sites. (Litoria spenceri) in the upper catchment were carried out during the period November 2000-February 2001 Stuttering barred frog along streams with visually suitable habitat. Unfortunately, no The stuttering barred frog (Mixophyes balbus) has undergone new occurrences of the species were recorded. However, the a substantial decline in south-east New South Wales. surveys did identify possible locations for future release of Surveys were conducted along 37 streams, eight of which were captive-bred animals. historic localities for the species. Mixophyes balbus was only Booroolong frog detected along two streams during the survey, Big Belimba Creek in Dampier State Forest and a tributary of Macquarie As part of the recovery program for the Booroolong frog Rivulet in Macquarie Pass National Park. In addition, the (Litoria booroolongensis), two long-term monitoring sites were density of M. balbus along these streams was extremely low, established to provide information on population size, adult with only a single adult male being detected during survey movement and survival. The sites were 500-metre stream number 1 (Big Belimba Creek), a single tadpole being detected transects, one on Brungle Creek and one on Mountain Creek. during surveys 16 and 20 (Big Belimba Creek), and five Life history data collected indicate that annual adult mortality tadpoles being detected during survey number 9 (tributary of is high, with females potentially attaining higher survival rates ). The results from this survey were and being older at sexual maturity. The adult sex ratio is consistent with the results of other surveys conducted for this heavily skewed towards males. There also appear to be large species in recent years, indicating that M. balbus has declined fluctuations in adult population size from year to year, from a large portion of its former range in southern New South suggesting the populations are responding to environmental Wales, and that where this species is still present, it is variation or stochastic events. occurring in very low densities. If these results accurately 25 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

mistletoe in the she oak lined creeks. Further studies are planned to observe movements outside the valley so that

D Hunter/NPWS habitats used by regent honeyeaters during winter can be identified and protected. Brush-tailed rock wallaby In 2000-2001 the brush-tailed rock wallaby program conducted monitoring of sites to identify changes in abundance of rock wallabies and foxes, and undertook fox baiting on a monthly basis in cooperation with other government departments and private landholders. A paper on community involvement in fox baiting was produced and will be used to assist with actions in the recovery plan. Community involvement was continued through education programs, community group team building Surveys of the endangered spotted tree frog (Litoria spenceri) in the upper Murray River catchment have identified possible locations for releasing captive-bred frogs to the area. days and participation in field days. Bats at Willi Willi Caves reflect the current status of M. balbus, then the persistence of In January 2001 at Willi Willi Caves west of Kempsey, two this species in the southern portion of its historic geographic incidents occurred which led to the accidental death of about range is very precarious. 1,700 bats out of the estimated 200,000-strong local Surveys for the golden sun moth in population. The deaths occurred during a routine scientific Cootamundra, Gundagai and Tumut research program conducted by NPWS staff and assisted by a regions contractor. Relevant authorities were notified and independent investigations undertaken. It is expected that recommendations During November and December 2000 a total of 66 sites were will be made to improve procedures and ensure that such an surveyed for the presence of the endangered golden sun moth. incident does not happen again. This work yielded five new sites for the species and covered much of the known and expected range of the species in Satellite-tracking of black swan south-east New South Wales. movements in relation to habitat availability Yellow-footed rock wallaby survey Waterbirds depend on river flows creating wetlands. Aerial surveys by helicopter of the yellow-footed rock wallaby Movements and breeding of waterbirds are primarily population in Mutawintji National Park are conducted each determined by wetland flooding. A critical issue for the year by NPWS staff. The mean number seen rose from 18 in management of wetlands and waterbirds is understanding the 1996 to 80 in 2000, an increase of approximately 350 per cent. mobility of waterbird populations and the major factors This increase is attributed to a targeted fox and goat control influencing their movements. Conventional radio-tracking program conducted jointly with neighbouring landholders. techniques allow observations over limited spatial and The population is not only increasing in number but the area they occupy has increased. Radio-tracking of regent honeyeater

During spring 2000 nine regent honeyeaters bred at Taronga M Rawlings/NPWS Zoo were released at Capertee Valley. A sample of the birds was fitted with radio transmitters. Extensive experience was obtained tracking regent honeyeaters and the trial transmitter harnesses were successfully carried by birds without noticeably affecting their behaviour. It has also been determined that captive-bred regent honeyeaters can successfully be released into the wild, with survival up to four weeks being documented. This was conducted as a trial prior to the capture, fitting of radio transmitters and radio-tracking of the movement patterns of wild birds after breeding. This project, conducted over three months, showed that regent honeyeaters used habitats previously unknown to NPWS staff. It was found that they utilise grey gum (Eucalyptus punctata) on the valley sides after breeding and after the flowering of Mugga ironbark and white box on the lower valley sides and floor, and Radio-tracking of regent honeyeaters by the NPWS at Glen Davis in the Capertee Valley has provided new insights into the movements of these birds. 26 Conservation assessment

temporal scales. Satellite-tracking is the most cost-effective

option for long-term tracking of waterbirds that fly at night A Brown and can move long distances (greater than 1,000 km). The project has followed the movements of two black swans in inland New South Wales by using satellite transmitters on wild birds and tracking their movements for 12 months. The results have discovered patterns of movement not previously known for this species. Movements of individuals were very different, with one foraging over a restricted area and the other moving long distances before settling in coastal habitat for a period of months. Ongoing analysis is examining patterns of habitat-use and differences in daytime and night-time movement. Aerial survey of waterbirds in eastern Australia In 1983 the CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology and state park authorities (NSW, VIC, SA, QLD) began a research program to estimate the abundance of waterbirds in eastern Humpback whales provide a wonderful sight for nature lovers as they migrate along the Australia. This later became a CONCOM (Council of Nature NSW coast during winter and spring. Conservation Ministers) approved program. In 1995, the aerial survey extended to . It is arguably the largest aerial survey of fauna in the world. Threat management research In October of each year from 1983-2000, waterbirds in eastern Salinity and biodiversity Australia have been counted from the air on about 2,000 wetlands (100 hours flying). This has provided some of the Work has commenced in collaboration with the Department of country’s most important long-term data on the health of our Land and Water Conservation to investigate impacts of dry rivers and wetlands and information on up to 50 waterbirds, land salinity on terrestrial biodiversity. Preliminary assessment including threatened species. There are few data sets around indicates that the adverse effects are likely to be substantial, the world that provide nearly 20 years of data on more than including negative impacts on some national parks and 50 species over such a large part of a continent. nature reserves. Whales Pest management Surveys of humpback whales were undertaken from Cape Foxes Solander in Botany Bay National Park and Cape Byron State Two complementary research projects on fox control to protect Recreation Area in cooperation with volunteers and the brush-tailed rock wallabies have been funded by the Natural Southern Cross University Whale Research Program. Heritage Trust. The projects, located in the Hunter Valley and Wildlife research approvals Kangaroo Valley, aim to evaluate current practices for reducing fox abundance and their impact on rock wallaby populations. NPWS approval is required for research involving or possibly These projects are also examining how the community can affecting native wildlife. In 2000-2001 the NPWS issued 100 best contribute to such control programs. certificates under section 95(2) of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and 927 scientific licenses under There is concern that fox baiting with 1080 may adversely sections 120, 131 and clause 20 of the National Parks and impact on populations of the vulnerable spotted-tailed quoll, Wildlife Act and Regulations. Dasyurus maculatus. Research staff have recently begun investigating this risk in a project jointly funded by the NPWS Animal ethics approvals and the Natural Heritage Trust. The fate of quolls fitted with radio transmitters is being monitored during fox baiting in Under the provisions of the Animal Research Act 1985, the . NPWS Animal Care and Ethics Committee is required to review, supervise and make recommendations on all animal Dingoes and wild dogs research conducted by NPWS employees and contractors. The committee’s membership comprises research, veterinary, In Kosciuszko National Park, the NPWS is participating in animal welfare, external and independent representatives. an adaptive research project which aims to gain a better The committee met nine times during the year and approved understanding of wild dog movements in the area so that more 26 new research proposals and 48 research authority renewals. effective control can be achieved. The project is managed by a Committee members also inspected the research sites of coordinating committee with representatives from Yass, three projects. Gundagai, Holbrook, , and Bombala Rural Lands 27 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Protection Boards, NSW Agriculture, the NPWS, State Forests Deer of NSW, the Department of Land and Water Conservation, The NPWS has contracted the University of Western Sydney ACT Parks and Wildlife Service and Conservation Service and to undertake research to assess the impacts and monitor the the ACT Rural Leaseholders Association. population dynamics of deer in . The NPWS is also contributing to a University of New South Preliminary results indicate that fecundity is high and 50 per Wales research project which is refining DNA techniques to cent of the fawns produced survived through the first year. ascertain the genetic purity of dingo populations and determine Analysis of rumen contents indicates that there is dietary their distribution in New South Wales. DNA analysis of tissue overlap with the swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor), while flora samples collected from animals in New England and Guy surveys indicate that high population densities of deer have a Fawkes River national parks in north-east New South Wales significant impact on the diversity and abundance of plant confirmed that, while some hybridisation has occurred, species. The research will provide valuable information on purebred dingoes still persist in these areas. future sustainable management strategies.

Goats Environmental weed research In Coolah Tops National Park, the NPWS is assisting NSW The NPWS is a major contributor to national programs seeking Agriculture scientists to study the behaviour of goats and to biological controls for a range of environmental weeds. develop more cost-effective management strategies. The results Programs funded during 2000-2001 included bitou bush, of this research will improve the effectiveness of current lantana, Scotch broom, bridal creeper and serrated tussock. control programs and will also be important in the event of an Lantana is an example of a very vigorous and invasive weed exotic disease outbreak involving feral goats. which has been listed as a Weed of National Significance. In Nymboida National Park a control program has commenced B Slade/NPWS

The brush-tailed rock wallaby: to protect this threatened species, a cooperative fox baiting program was carried out involving community groups, landholders, the NPWS and other government departments. 28 Conservation assessment

Fire management research The NPWS was funded through the NSW Biodiversity P Rebuck/NPWS Strategy to address Priority Action 43: Manage fire in accordance with ESD principles. A project is underway to achieve better fire management by developing guidelines about appropriate fire regimes for the conservation of biodiversity within given ecosystems. The development of databases on the fire response and life history characteristics of flora and fauna species, and research into the effects of infrequent fire, will aid the development of these guidelines. This is a two-year project that commenced in 1999-2000 and will be completed in 2002. Collaborative research between the NPWS, the University of Technology, Sydney and the University of Western Sydney has examined the role fire plays in controlling germination in plants. Particular emphasis was placed on the interaction between several key fire cures that break seed dormancy (heat, smoke and charred wood) and the effects of fire season. This research will help the NPWS manage fire for the conservation of plant species. As reported in last year’s annual report, a PhD student from the University of New England undertook the third year of a research project in National Park investigating the fire responses of all native vegetation species. The findings have been submitted, and following finalisation of the PhD will be incorporated into NPWS fire management planning. One key outcome of the project was the development of a methodology to map fire intensity from Landsat TM images. Subject to funding, this promises enhanced fire management planning. The research also amended existing community-level fire regimes to reflect the needs of individual threatened plant species. It was found that the impacts of grazing were more detrimental to the parks than fire.

Scotch broom: one of many weeds receiving attention from the NPWS during the year. Cultural heritage research In the fourth year of the strategic research program into cultural heritage, a number of long-term projects came to fruition. One of these projects was Remembering Country: to tackle lantana infestations, which range from isolated History and Memories of , and a clumps to large areas of impenetrable, highly competitive document with this title was published by the NPWS in thickets along the Mann River. The NPWS is also a major June 2001. This was a milestone in the effort by the contributor to the national research program on biological NPWS to articulate non-indigenous cultural heritage at a control of lantana which is being undertaken by the landscape level. The document describes the lives of the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and NSW families who farmed the land that now makes up Towarri Agriculture. Over the past four years seven insect species have National Park. been released at a number of sites, many of them on NPWS reserves. The cultural heritage research program’s projects on Aboriginal heritage similarly aim to promote a landscape During the last 12 months the research effort has focused approach to cultural heritage. The Mapping Attachment mainly on the release and monitoring of the stem sucking Project being carried out in partnership with the Forster and insect, Aconophora compressa, which has been released at Purfleet-Taree local Aboriginal land councils maps the lives of 17 sites. A leaf sucking bug, Falconia intermedia, has also local Aboriginal people of the lower North Coast. It has been been released at a number of sites, while a leaf rust, possible to map the many places, such as fishing sites and Prospodium tuberculatum, has been approved for release picnic and camping places, that Aboriginal people remember by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service. as significant in their lives and the lives of their parents and Other agents, including a bud mite, Aceria lantanae, are still being evaluated overseas. 29 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

grandparents, and the pathways and routes between At Lake Innes House, south of Port Macquarie, research is these places. continuing into the living conditions in the house in the 1830s. One of the objectives of the strategic research program is to Conservation plans have been prepared for Bolivia Hill and break down the distinction between Aboriginal and non- Arakool nature reserves, former grazing properties with indigenous heritage, especially in the historical period historic shearing sheds, houses, yards and fences. The plans (post-1788) during which Aboriginal and white history were provide valuable information on the history, use and former intertwined. The ongoing project on the shared history of management of these properties, as well as making pastoralism on NPWS estate is documenting how both white recommendations to stabilise structures. It is intended that the and Aboriginal people commonly worked side by side on shearing sheds will be maintained and managed to provide safe pastoral properties, learning from each other and borrowing storage for farm artefacts, as well as providing an opportunity from each other’s cultures. for educational programs. Publication in June 2001 of Social Significance: A Discussion Paper concluded the first stage of a research project designed Conservation research and to give greater emphasis to social value in the process of assessment tools assessing the significance of cultural heritage places. The paper presented a strong case for directing at least as Quantifying biodiversity values much attention to the attachment that local communities feel to heritage places and landscapes as we direct to the Research is being carried out throughout Australia on archaeological and architectural values of these places and financial incentives to conserve biodiversity on private land. landscapes. The research program has expanded the concept of Incentives could include stewardship payments, product social significance to include the culturally particular ways accreditation, tax breaks and tradeable credits, and the amount that different migrant groups perceive and use the national of the incentive would depend on the biodiversity value of the parks of New South Wales. The first outcome of this work was site. The NPWS, in collaboration with State Forests of NSW, is the volume, A Multicultural Landscape, to be published in July participating in this research by developing a relatively simple 2001, which describes the unique significance of Royal and inexpensive procedure for quantifying the biodiversity National Park to Sydney’s Macedonian community. value of a site. It will capture the site’s condition, function and importance in the landscape context. This project, which Other publications resulting from the cultural heritage research commenced in March 2001, is expected to be finalised by program are included in Appendix H. June 2003. Cultural heritage surveys Survey guidelines A number of site surveys were conducted during the year. The NPWS was allocated funds through the NSW Biodiversity These included: Strategy for a project to address Priority Action 130: • an Aboriginal sites survey in Myall Lakes National Park Implementation of the Biodiversity Survey Program. conducted by NPWS staff, a consultant archaeologist and The project will develop, publish and promote guidelines to Karuah Local Aboriginal Land Council members. support the systematic acquisition and assessment of survey The project identified, recorded and provided management recommendations for sites along the beach dune system in the park. • surveys on private lands which have recently entered into voluntary conservation agreements (VCA) in the M Nugent/NPWS Eden Regional Forests Agreement area. The surveys were conducted by NPWS staff, sites officers from the Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council, and elders from local communities. The results from the surveys were made available to VCA landholders to assist in the management of cultural heritage on private lands and also contribute to an expanding heritage database for community conservation projects. Historic heritage research During the year research commenced into the history of lighthouses under NPWS management. As part of the project the oral histories of previous lighthouse keepers will be Mae Simpson is interviewed by NPWS Cultural Heritage Research Manager Denis Byrne as gathered. part of a project mapping the lives of the Aboriginal people of the lower North Coast. 30 Conservation assessment

data through agreed survey methods, well-planned surveys, Workshops around New South Wales involving fauna and and a standard reporting framework. A range of guidelines will flora survey consultants, local government and natural be produced to suit the differing needs of stakeholder groups. resource management agencies helped develop two other sets The first of three planned guidelines, the Community of guidelines. The Regional Biodiversity Survey and G Robertson/NPWS Biodiversity Survey Manual (revised second edition) was Assessment Guidelines can be used for regional planning launched in May 2001 by the Minister for the Environment, needs. The Threatened Species Survey and Assessment Bob Debus, and Ian Kiernan, Chairman of Clean Up Australia. Guidelines can be used for development-oriented assessment, These guidelines are aimed at assisting community groups to including Environmental Impact Statements and Species conduct their own biodiversity field surveys. Impact Statements. Both sets of guidelines will be completed in 2001-2002.

Conservation assessment

Performance targets 2000-2003 • The NPWS contributed actively and effectively to a number • A model monitoring regime in place in at least one park in of bioregional planning instruments, such as regional each NPWS region by June 2003 vegetation plans, water management plans and regional • 75 per cent of voluntary conservation agreements and new environmental planning. Contributions included the reserve proposals are selected on the basis of regional development of bioregional planning guidelines, flora and assessments fauna surveys, vegetation and habitat mapping, • Demonstrated evidence of quality NPWS contribution to comprehensive regional assessments, and provision of bioregional planning advice on natural and cultural heritage and ecosystem function. Performance results Future directions • The inaugural State of the Parks 2001 report was drafted. This report describes conservation throughout New South The 2001-2002 year will see the NSW Biodiversity Strategy Wales and establishes the criteria for monitoring reviewed for the first time. The review will be overseen by the conservation values across a cross-section of parks and Biological Diversity Advisory Council, which will begin by reserves in future reports. inviting public views about future directions and priorities for • A framework for selecting voluntary conservation biodiversity conservation. The community will be invited to agreements and reserves is contingent upon the development comment on the draft revised strategy in 2002. The revised of a framework for identifying conservation priorities. Work strategy will be complemented by an Aquatic Biodiversity identifying conservation priorities is underway, and is Strategy developed by NSW Fisheries in consultation with the reported upon in the section on Conservation planning. NPWS and other agencies. 31 Conservation planning2

Sturt National Park The making of judgments about what to conserve and how best to do this, and the development of processes by which this is done. 32 2Conservation planning D Stevenson/NPWS

Wilgara wetland, part of the Macquarie Marshes Ramsar site, one of the few Ramsar sites in NSW that includes private land.

Conservation planning is undertaken by the NPWS in close In addition, the NPWS has supported local government by consultation with the community and other land managers to providing advice on flora, fauna and Aboriginal heritage ensure the conservation of natural and cultural heritage while matters with respect to developments. also providing for people’s enjoyment of that heritage. The key The NPWS participated in the review of Part 3 of the EP&A objective of NPWS conservation planning activities is to Act and in the development of an environmental impact improve the process for establishing conservation priorities for assessment guideline for fisheries management strategies New South Wales to ensure: prepared by DUAP. The NPWS has prepared a guideline for • integration of natural, cultural and community values use by NPWS staff when considering application of the • consultation and transparency Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity • responsiveness to threats and change Conservation Act 1999. The activities addressed in this section include planning- Environmental factors assessments are conducted by the related activities through which the NPWS is contributing to NPWS for proposed developments on NPWS-managed lands. the achievement of NSW Biodiversity Strategy objectives. During the year, the NPWS refined and updated the assessment procedures and prepared a training package to Biodiversity planning educate NPWS staff of the new procedures. NSW coastal policy Environmental planning The NPWS is a member of the NSW Coastal Council, which The NPWS continued its statutory responsibilities as a is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the concurrence authority and approval body under the government’s NSW coastal policy, a whole-of-government Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A approach to protecting and managing the coastal zone of New Act). The NPWS has provided submissions and advice to the South Wales. The NPWS has primary responsibility for the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) and other implementation of 24 strategic actions contained within the agencies regarding environmental planning matters. policy. The NPWS’ progress in meeting its responsibilities 33 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

during 2000-2001 will be reported in the council’s next annual Water reforms report in late 2001. Council annual reports can be viewed at its Through the water reforms process over the past few years, the website at www.coastalcouncil.nsw.gov.au. NPWS has had a key role in protecting water-dependent In June 2001 the Premier announced an $11.7 million coastal natural values, particularly wetlands conservation, threatened package to protect and provide a planning blueprint for the ecological communities, and protected and threatened non-fish state’s coast. The package includes $8.6 million for a native species, as well as the review of threatening processes. comprehensive coastal assessment (CCA) to be completed over Reserves where rivers and wetlands contribute significantly to the next three years. The assessment will involve the natural, cultural and recreational values have also been a key systematic study of environmental, social and economic focus in terms of assessment and conservation. values of the coast and will determine those parts which are Over the past 12 months, the NPWS has been a key player in suitable for development and those which require protection. the considerable changes that have occurred in water The NPWS will play a key role in the assessment. management. The end of last year saw the introduction of the Ramsar wetlands Water Management Act 2000. This new legislation aims to develop a ‘water sharing’ approach to protect water-dependent The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International environmental and cultural values whilst also facilitating Importance provides a framework for international cooperation resource certainty. The NPWS supported and participated in a to conserve wetlands. The NPWS administers the convention wide range of government and community committees with in New South Wales, which involves identifying significant interests in water conservation, which have been involved in wetland sites; assessing whether they meet the criteria for drafting water management and water plans. NPWS and Ramsar listing; negotiating new nominations with landholders, community representatives have provided scientific and policy government and the broader community; and supporting long- input into the objectives, outcomes and bulk access regimes for term sustainable management at these sites. Since 1998, the water sharing planning. A key outcome has been the provision NPWS has been working with the World Wide Fund for Nature of information on conserving wetlands, threatened species and Australia (WWF), the NSW National Parks Association (NPA), Aboriginal cultural heritage. the Commonwealth, and private landholders, as part of a collaborative project to expand the Ramsar estate outside the Catchment Management Boards reserve system in New South Wales and ensure that listed Catchment Management Boards were established in 2000 by wetlands are considered in natural resource-use the Minister for Land and Water to enhance the capacity of decision-making. total catchment management in order to improve the quality The success of this project was recognised with a gold award and sustainability of the state’s natural resources and in the Economy and Environment category of the 2000 NSW environment. Membership of the Boards is drawn from the Premier’s Public Sector Awards. Since then, the project local community, and state and local government. Since their partners have continued to collaborate in the preparation of a establishment, the NPWS has been represented on the majority management framework for the Macquarie Marshes Ramsar of the Boards. On a state level, the NPWS has actively site, and a property management plan for the Wilgara wetland participated on the state catchment management coordinating on private land at this site. This planning framework will serve committee, policy and planning subcommittee, and the as a model for other private land Ramsar sites, such as those in interagency technical reference group. This involvement by the the Gwydir. NPWS has ensured that biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural In addition, the NPWS and its partners are implementing the heritage protection are considered in the preparation of formally agreed process under the Commonwealth catchment management plans across NSW. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act Native vegetation reforms 1999 for nominating new wetlands in New South Wales to the convention. Negotiations commenced in relation to a number The NPWS continued to be represented on regional and of new nominations outside the reserve estate in the Riverina, statewide native vegetation management and conservation Sydney Basin and Darling-Riverine Plains bioregions. committees, including the Native Vegetation Advisory Council The project partners also commenced supervision of a and its sub-committees and the Minister for Land and Water consultancy to obtain in-principle support for Ramsar listing of Conservation’s Community Reference Panel and related important wetlands on the Paroo from Aboriginal people with interagency committees. Issues being addressed by these rights and interests along this river system. If successful, this committees include developing native vegetation conservation project will establish a model for consulting Aboriginal people targets, the review of clearing exemptions, development of a about future Ramsar nominations and involving them in the Native Vegetation Conservation Strategy, incentives, integrated ongoing management of listed sites. property management planning, vegetation mapping and the establishment of the Nature Conservation Trust. 34 Conservation planning

1995, over 5.5 million hectares have been formally protected, bringing the total land area of New South Wales under P Sakinovsky reservation to 6.7 per cent of the state. The bulk of land incorporated in the reserve system during the year arose from the outcomes of the comprehensive regional assessment process for the South Coast and Tumut regions. With the passing of the National Park Estate (Southern Region Reservations) Act 2000 the government declared 16 new national parks, 55 new nature reserves, and three new state recreation areas, and made additions to 11 national parks and nature reserves across south-east New South Wales. An additional 33,000 hectares were protected with 15 new Crown reserves.

Mike Montgomery, President of the Shires Association; Carmel Tebbutt, Assistant Minister The creation of these new reserves has resulted in the for the Environment; Peter Woods, President of the Local Government Association; and establishment of a continuous north-south corridor of national Sally Barnes, NPWS Director Education and Community Programs at the launch of the parks that runs for 350 kilometres along the coastal Biodiversity Planning Guide for Local Government. escarpment between the NSW/Victorian border and the Illawarra. Importantly, several key east-west corridors have Guidelines for biodiversity planning also been created linking conservation reserves on the coast to The NPWS was allocated funds through the NSW Biodiversity others on the tablelands via the coastal escarpment reserves. Strategy to address Priority Action 56: Local Biodiversity Among the most significant of the new conservation Action Plans. This project assists councils to use existing reserves are: planning mechanisms, such as local environmental plans, to • (10 kilometres south and south-west achieve biodiversity outcomes. The Biodiversity Planning of Ulladulla) This stunning new park protects 3,600 hectares Guide for Local Government was launched on 20 June 2001. and connects in one park five coastal lakes: Willinga, These guidelines will now be piloted with a number of Meroo, Termeil, Tabourie and Burrill. It provides a key link councils in 2001-2002. that completes a conservation corridor from the coast Pest management through to the tablelands. • (20 kilometres south of Weeds and pest animals are included in the NSW Biodiversity Holbrook) Located just north of the Murray River, this Strategy under Priority Action 39: Improve cooperative 23,000 hectare reserve is the largest west of the Great approaches to weed and pest management. During the initial Dividing Range in south-east New South Wales. This three-year phase of the strategy, funding was provided to the represents the largest remnant of box woodlands on the NPWS for six projects to: south-west slopes. It contains substantial areas of old growth • coordinate a more strategic approach to the management of forest made up of mixed forest species dominated by box bitou bush in coastal ecosystems woodland. It is a very important haven for a large number of • expand rainforest restoration programs on the North Coast threatened and endangered species, such as the regent • protect threatened species in Barrington Tops National Park honeyeater, , powerful owl, brown toadlet and from invasion by Scotch broom carpet python. It is also home to the very rare wattle known • enhance bush regeneration programs in priority conservation areas in the Blue Mountains and Sydney metropolitan area • protect priority conservation areas in western New South Total area of NSW reserve system Wales from grazing and land degradation by rabbits 6 • develop a program to improve the effectiveness of NPWS pest management programs 5

4 Establishment of parks and reserves 3 Hectares (million) During the year some 290,000 hectares of new parks and 2 additions to existing parks were declared as part of the New South Wales reserve system. Sixteen new parks with a total of 1

114,380 hectares and 58 new nature reserves with a total of 0 48,517 hectares were proclaimed, together with three new 1967 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2001 regional parks and three state recreation areas. Since March at 30 June 35 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Protected areas in the NSW reserve system associations with the country and as a mission and contact site. 600 It is also a significant archaeological site, having one of the earliest convict stockades in the region and as the site of the 500 first Government House. A community reference group has been established in Wellington to ensure input and guidance is 400 received from representatives in the district. It is intended to

300 gazette the land as an historic site.

200 Declaration of Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area Number of parks, reserves, etc 100 The Greater Blue Mountains area is now internationally recognised as containing outstanding examples of evolutional 0 1967 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2001 processes and possessing significant natural habitats for at 30 June conservation of biological diversity. In December 2000 this area, which covers one million hectares and includes the Blue Mountains National Park, was inscribed on the World as Acacia phasmoides. Parts of the reserve are close to Heritage list. 1,000 metres above sea level, providing stunning views over The Blue Mountains have been described as a natural the Murray River and areas west of the park. laboratory for the evolution of eucalypts. In the mountains’ • Greater Murramarang (9,600 hectares) protects high diverse plant communities you can trace the changing nature biodiversity values in the spotted gum forest, increases the of the Australian environment, from geological shifts and size of Murramarang National Park fivefold, and protects climate variations, through to the impact of Aboriginal the catchment of Durras Lake. settlement and European colonisation. • Monga and Buckenbowra in the new (25,000 hectares) contains majestic old growth forest stands, pinkwood rainforest and threatened plant species. It is the key to creating a 350 kilometre coastal escarpment corridor of parks. J Winter/NPWS • extension (6,800 hectares) protects important coastal old growth remnants and includes the spectacular granite falls. • Brindabella Corridor (10,000 hectares) links Brindabella and Kosciuszko national parks to consolidate the 200 kilometre alpine national park system to protect important tiger quoll, koala and corroboree frog habitat. Other significant areas of new reserves include: • Lower Hunter National Park (2,143 hectares) • acquisition of Big Yango, a property within In conjunction with Environment Australia, the NPWS continues to purchase lands for declaration that contribute to the establishment of a national reserve system. This year the NPWS declared Bolivia Hill Nature Reserve, located on the New England Tableland 56 kilometres north of Glen Innes. It is the key remaining remnant on the Bolivia Range, comprising diverse ecosystems that contain samples of ecologically viable plant and animal populations. The reserve is floristically rich, containing high numbers of species that are endemic or largely restricted to the area. Two shrubland communities dominated by the nationally vulnerable Acacia pycnostachya are only known from the Bolivia Range, and the most extensive and least disturbed samples are restricted to Bolivia Hill. Land has been acquired in Wellington that is significant to the Aboriginal community, both through general cultural Mount Hay in Blue Mountains National Park. In December the Greater Blue Mountains area was inscribed as part the World Heritage list. 36 Conservation planning

More than 90 different eucalypt species are found in the Dunphy Wilderness Fund acquisitions is now approaching Greater Blue Mountains, some 13 per cent of all the eucalypt $5.63 million. species in the world. They grow in a great variety of Donations to the fund total $73,200 as at 30 June 2001. communities, from tall closed forests, through open forests and A reference group for the fund, comprising representatives woodlands, to the stunted mallee shrublands on the plateaux. from the NPWS, the Foundation for National Parks and Among them are rare species like Baeuerlen’s gum. Wildlife and the Nature Conservation Council of NSW, The World Heritage list covers much of Australia’s provides advice on acquisition criteria, reviews the acquisition biodiversity, particularly in rainforests and desert areas. program and promotes the fund. However, the list has tended to leave out the environments that The appeal launch was held in conjunction with the official lie in between the wet and the dry. By including the eucalypt opening of the Henry Gold Wilderness Photographic forests of the Blue Mountains, the World Heritage list now Exhibition, with over 100 people attending the evening. holds a more complete picture of Australia’s natural diversity. The NPWS produced a Dunphy Wilderness Fund display and Eight conservation reserves make up the Greater Blue brochure for the event, detailing the conservation work of Mountains World Heritage Area: Myles and Milo Dunphy and the achievements of the fund to • Blue Mountains National Park date. The launch was coordinated by the NPWS, the Foundation • for National Parks and Wildlife, the Colong Foundation for • Kanangra-Boyd National Park Wilderness and the National Parks Association of NSW. • Yengo National Park Through the Dunphy Wilderness Fund, the NPWS has • Gardens of Stone National Park acquired 32 properties, and an additional two properties are in • the final stages of purchase. These acquisitions will bring the • Thirlmere Lakes National Park total area purchased under the Dunphy Wilderness Fund over • Conservation Reserve its five years of operation to 38,867 hectares, at a cost of $5.63 million. Acquisitions for 2000-2001 will form additions to the Acquisition of wilderness Macleay Gorges, Wollemi, Ettrema, Levers and Guy Fawkes wilderness areas. Dunphy Wilderness Fund public appeal Additional freehold and leasehold properties within identified The Premier of NSW, the Hon Bob Carr, launched a public wilderness have been purchased by the NPWS under other appeal for the Dunphy Wilderness Fund on 15 May 2001 at the land acquisition programs, including the Occupational Bondi Pavilion Gallery. The theme for the appeal was Creating Permit Fund. a wilderness legacy. The Dunphy Wilderness Fund was established in September 1996 in memory of Milo Dunphy and his father Myles, to Declaration of Aboriginal Areas purchase freehold and leasehold land to add to existing and Places wilderness. The initial government funding commitment was Aboriginal Places have been declared on a range of different $1 million each year for five years from 1996-1997 until 2000- land tenures, including freehold, local shire council land, state 2001. Expenditure has exceeded this commitment in two of the forest, other Crown land and NPWS estate. Many Aboriginal five years of the fund’s operation, and the total spent to date on people have expressed delight that the value of their cultural places is being formally recognised. The places range from women’s areas and men’s ceremonial areas to story sites, a massacre area and living areas. Six Aboriginal Place nominations investigated in 1999-2000 M Cufer/NPWS were finalised and declared in 2000-2001. These were: Barlings Beach, Sugarloaf & Waratah Trig, Parrots Nest, Ti Tree (Taylors) Lake, Mimiga Gaungan (St Mary’s Waterhole) and Mt Drysdale. Four other investigations commenced in 1999-2000 were completed and are either in the negotiation stage or being finalised. These are: Angels Beach (Ballina), Three Brothers Mountains (Port Macquarie), White Lady Rock (Tibooburra) and Dippo Ceremonial Ground (). Seven new nominations have also been investigated this year and the recommendations for these are currently being considered. These were Balranald Island Reserve (Balranald), Premier Bob Carr launches the Dunphy Wilderness Fund in May. Denewan Mission site (adjoins ), Camp 37 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Adopted plans of management NPWS for NSW protected areas

120

100

80

60

40

Cumulative total of adopted plans 20

0 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2001 at 30 June

At the declaration of the Mimiga Gaungan Aboriginal Place in northern NSW, a site associated with maternal uses and healing.

Wanawong (Sutherland), Chinaman’s Creek (near Tabulum),

Goanna Headland (Evan’s Head), Hamilton Hume’s grave M Cufer/NPWS (Tumut), and Tumut women’s site. Two other investigations have been commenced at Bermagui Waterhole and Sandon Point (Bulli).

Plans of management The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 requires a plan of management to be prepared for each national park, nature reserve, historic site, karst conservation reserve, state recreation area and regional park. A plan of management is a legal document outlining how the area will be managed. The procedures for exhibiting and adopting a plan of management are laid down in the Act. During the year 14 plans of management were adopted by the Minister for the Environment for the following 21 NPWS- managed areas: • Popran National Park • Eurobodalla National Park • and Bournda Nature Reserve • Morton National Park and • and Pitt Town Nature Reserve • Towra Point Nature Reserve • Billinudgel Nature Reserve • Langtree Nature Reserve • Stotts Island Nature Reserve • Wollemi National Park • Kanangra-Boyd National Park • Nattai Reserves (Nattai National Park and Bargo, Burragorang, Nattai and Yerranderie state recreation areas) • Tarawi Nature Reserve • Blue Mountains National Park In addition, the NPWS assisted the Jenolan Caves Reserve A disused silo in Scheyville National Park is a reminder of one of the park’s former uses. Trust with the adoption of a plan of management for Borenore Scheyville was one of 21 NPWS-managed areas to have a plan of management adopted by the government during the year. Karst Conservation Reserve. 38 Conservation planning

No. of NPWS areas for which there is: • Cathedral Rock National Park Category of An adopted plan of A plan exhibited or • Pilliga Nature Reserve reserved area management finalised for exhibition • Coolah Tops National Park 1999-2000 2000-2001 1999-2000 2000-2001* • Tuckean Nature Reserve

National parks 48 59 26 20 The National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council has specific Historic sites 8822responsibilities under the National Parks and Wildlife Act to Nature reserves 54 61 13 16 consider and advise the Minister for the Environment on plans State recreation areas 8954of management and any representations received in response to Aboriginal areas 1100public exhibition of a plan. The advisory council considered Regional parks 0001and reported on 10 plans of management for 11 NPWS- managed areas during 2000-2001. Total 119 138 46 43

*Includes six new plans to replace existing plans of management Strategic plans for World Heritage properties In November 2000 the New South Wales, Queensland and Eleven plans of management were placed on exhibition during Commonwealth governments endorsed the Strategic Overview the year covering the following 12 areas: for Management of the World Heritage Central Eastern • Torrington State Recreation Area Rainforest Reserves of Australia. These reserves include the • Stotts Island Nature Reserve major rainforest parks in all five regions of the northern area • Goulburn River National Park and Munghorn Gap Nature of New South Wales, as well as south-east Queensland. Reserve The strategic overview, although not a statutory plan, will • provide direction for the preparation of plans of management • Regional Park for the individual national parks and nature reserves in this • Ballina Nature Reserve World Heritage property. • Maryland National Park M Van Ewijk M Van

Nadgee River in Nadgee Nature Reserve: one of 12 NPWS-managed areas to have a plan of management placed on exhibition during the year. 39 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Threat abatement plans Several pest species have been recognised as key threatening

R Molsher/NPWS processes under the Threatened Species Conservation Act. These include predation of native fauna by foxes, feral cats and plague minnow (Gambusia holbrookii), and invasion of native plant communities by bitou bush.

Foxes The NPWS has prepared a draft fox threat abatement plan which details a strategy to minimise the impact of foxes across New South Wales on threatened and other native fauna such as the yellow-footed rock wallaby, southern brown bandicoot and little tern. Implementation of the plan will result in a fundamental change in fox control practices as the plan pro-actively determines priorities for management to be applied across all public land tenures. In particular, the draft plan identifies species most at risk from fox predation and the localities where the benefits of fox control will be greatest. Eighty-one priority sites for fox control have been identified across New South Wales,

NPWS ranger Emily Ward and herpetologist Gerry Swan examine the endangered Centralian providing recovery actions for 34 threatened species Ranges rock-skink (Egernia margaretae) in Mutawintji National Park. (11 mammals, 15 birds and 8 reptiles). Undertaking collaborative fox control programs across all Threatened species planning land tenures at these localities is the core action of the draft plan. The plan also identifies methods to maximise the Recovery plans effectiveness of individual programs, identifies research As at 30 June 2001, 24 recovery plans had been prepared by actions to improve methodology, and provides specific the NPWS and approved by the NSW Minister for the guidelines to measure the success of individual programs. Environment. Another 10 plans were on public exhibition or Such monitoring programs are fundamental to improving the had completed exhibition, and a further 148 were in effectiveness of the management of threatened species. preparation. The total number of threatened species, The draft fox threat abatement plan has been prepared in populations and ecological communities currently being consultation with State Forests of NSW, the Department of addressed by recovery planning in New South Wales is in Land and Water Conservation, NSW Agriculture, CSIRO excess of 270, or 35 per cent of those listed under the Sustainable Ecosystems, the University of Sydney Institute of Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Wildlife Research and the NSW Pest Animal Council. The following recovery plans were approved by the Minister The draft plan was placed on public exhibition in June 2001 during the year: and an extensive public consultation period will be undertaken • down wattle (Acacia pubescens) before it is finalised. • Gould’s petrel (Pterodroma leucoptera) • Illawarra greenhood orchid (Pterostylis gibbosa) Bitou bush • Grevillea obtusiflora Because it is a serious threat to all coastal ecosystems, bitou • Epacris hamiltonii bush has been listed as a Weed of National Significance and as • Bathurst copper butterfly (Paralucia spinifera) a key threatening process under the Threatened Species • Blue Mountains water skink (Eulamprus leuraensis) Conservation Act. It is a highly competitive environmental • little penguin (Manly) Eudyptula minor weed which reduces the abundance and diversity of native • Somersby mintbush (Prostanthera junonis) plant communities. The NPWS has appointed a project officer • emydura (Emydura macquarii) to develop and implement a more strategic and collaborative • Mitchell’s rainforest snail (Thersites mitchellae) approach to managing bitou bush. The NPWS coordinated the • yellow-spotted bell frog and peppered frog (Litoria castanea preparation of national and statewide strategies for bitou bush and Litoria piperata) during the year. • Araluen zieria (Zieria adenophora) The National Strategic Plan for Bitou Bush and Boneseed •‘lost’ threatened flora of south-east New South Wales identifies priorities and provides direction at the national level • southern corroboree frog (Pseudophryne corroboree) and will also be used by the Commonwealth to determine • spotted tree frog (Litoria spenceri) • threatened alpine plant species 40 Conservation planning

priorities for applications seeking funding from the Natural Plague minnow Heritage Trust. The plague minnow is common and widespread throughout The NSW Bitou Bush Strategy is closely linked to, and New South Wales in both inland and coastal drainages and expands on, the national plan. With assistance from local is considered to have an impact on native frogs and fish, government councils and community groups the NPWS has including threatened species. Initial preparation for drafting a re-mapped the distribution and abundance of bitou bush. threat abatement plan for the plague minnow has commenced, There are more than 36,000 hectares of bitou bush-infested with information being sought from researchers, local land in New South Wales. Over 900 km or about 90 per cent of government and the community on current programs in New coastline is infested, which is a 30 per cent increase since the South Wales and Australia aimed at the control or eradication last mapping in 1981. of the species from waterways. A literature review is being prepared of the latest research on the impacts of the species on The NPWS has established three demonstration sites to native fauna and flora, likely physical and biological control promote and refine best management practices: at Munmorah options, and other recommendations for management. State Recreation Area, and at Sea Acres and Cudgen nature reserves. Additional demonstration sites have been established Fire management plans on the South Coast by the South Coast Bitou Bush Steering Committee. As part of a multi-agency working group comprising State Forests of NSW, the Department of Land and Water The NPWS has continued to contribute to the national research Conservation and the Rural Fire Service, the NPWS has played program on biological control of bitou bush, with $60,000 a key role in the development of bush fire risk management being provided in 2000-2001. Four biological control agents plans across the state. These plans provide a cooperative from this program have now been released. framework for fire management and reinforce conservation A key action in the national and NSW strategies is the objectives for fire management across the landscape. preparation of a threat abatement plan for bitou bush. This plan Planning work undertaken during the year included: will be prepared during 2001-2002. • draft reserve fire management plans exhibited for Berowra Valley Regional Park and Royal and national parks • fire management plans for Warrumbungle National Park and Binnaway, Billinudgel and Pilliga nature reserves adopted • community workshops conducted to prepare draft fire management plans

Cultural heritage planning

Aboriginal heritage regional studies During this year a regional studies program was commenced. This was designed to allow trialling of landscape-based approaches to Aboriginal cultural heritage planning that could be used as models to guide land-use decision-making and environmental impact assessment. One study was undertaken within the Coffs Harbour Local Aboriginal Land Council area. This project involved collaboration between Aboriginal organisations, NPWS staff, Goulding Heritage Consulting Pty Ltd and the Coffs Harbour City Council. The approach taken was to assess a range of heritage values and places, including post-contact places, areas used today to obtain wild resources, and areas where people are concerned about environmental management. Over 400 places of cultural value were mapped and complex issues raised about the way in which we define Aboriginal heritage. This represents a new and innovative direction for heritage planning and it is proposed to complete this project next year by focusing on obtaining planning outcomes. A second project was undertaken on the Riverine Plain. Bitou bush and boneseed are classed as weeds of national significance and a national This focused on mapping and predicting the location of strategy was released in December. 41 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

pre-contact places valued by the Aboriginal community. for it. The plan recommends the continuation of camping at Extensive archaeological survey work was undertaken and this Little Lake and utilisation of the mill site as a day-use area. was combined with conservation works on a range of Toilets and a gas barbecue facility have been installed. burial sites. Neranie was added to Myall Lakes National Park in 1997. Regional cultural heritage Conservation management plans for Roto House and Innes management strategy Ruins were also finalised during the year. A cultural heritage management strategy for the South Coast Conservation management plans and stakeholder consultations of New South Wales for 2001-2006 has been piloted. for the Hydro-electric Scheme and Kunderang East The strategy directs on-park and selected off-park activities Pastoral Station in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park were through the identification and prioritisation of long-term commenced. conservation and management outcomes for Aboriginal and historic cultural heritage places and landscapes within the area. Marine park planning The strategy aligns its management principles, goals and strategies with the NPWS Corporate Plan 2000-2003, and Marine park planning is undertaken to ensure that the principal covers conservation assessment, planning, management, aim of conserving marine biodiversity and maintaining facilitation and capacity building. ecosystems can be met while also allowing ecologically sustainable use. Planning for and A collaborative workshop process was used to develop the Solitary Islands Marine Park progressed during the year. strategy, facilitating a broader understanding of cultural Stakeholder meetings were held with local charter boat heritage and its management. The strategy brings a directed operators, marine tourism operators, diving clubs, conservation and strategic approach to the management of a selected, groups and recreational and commercial fishers. Comments representative collection of places and landscapes. It highlights from these meetings and submissions received on the places of high conservation priority, their adaptive and future previously released issues and options paper were used to use, and their potential as cultural tourism destinations. prepare final drafts of the zoning and operational plans. It is Historic huts conservation study anticipated that these will be released for public comment during 2001. Final plans, incorporating amendments made A conservation study of the Broughton Island and Tamboy huts after consideration of submissions from the public, will then within Myall Lakes National Park was undertaken to establish be prepared. their historic heritage values and significance. The importance In partnership with the Marine Park Authority, the NPWS of the sites was evaluated in relation to the long-term contributed to the effective and efficient planning of marine establishment of a settlement and the local fishing industry. parks. The draft Overview for a representative system of Hill End Historic Site community marine protected areas was reviewed. Planning for the consultation management of Marine Park continued, a draft zoning plan for Solitary Islands Marine Park was A comprehensive consultation process has been undertaken prepared to be released for public comment, and bioregional with the community of Hill End to identify and develop a assessments were completed in the waters around Byron Bay common vision and agreed future for the Hill End Historic and in the Manning Shelf bioregion. Site. A principal focus of this approach has been a fundamental shift away from planning for, and management of, the site as an archaeological feature and ‘museum piece’, Other conservation planning towards a partnership with a living community within a highly significant cultural landscape. The process is embodied in a Enhancements to Burragorang Lookout report which will inform broader planning processes, such as A community master plan for proposed enhancements to the the review of the draft plan of management and the production Burragorang Lookout at Burragorang State Recreation Area is of a master conservation management plan. The report also being developed. A steering committee comprising community provides an action plan which will drive this operational and representatives, the Sydney Catchment Authority and the cultural shift, including the identification of community NPWS is guiding the process. concerns, issues and aspirations, and the establishment of mechanisms which facilitate their meaningful involvement in Cabins in Royal National Park setting the direction of their community and associated An integrated draft conservation management plan for the landscape, and in its ongoing management. natural, cultural and Aboriginal heritage components of the Other cultural heritage conservation cabin areas in Royal National Park is being developed. planning The Neranie recreation development plan was prepared to assess the heritage values of the area and outline a site plan 42 Conservation planning

Conservation planning • The Corporate Plan 2000-2003 established a target of 20 per cent of threatened species to be covered by an approved

Performance targets 2000-2003 recovery or threat abatement plan or a national recovery J Winter/NPWS The NPWS Corporate Plan and performance targets were plan. The bar graph below shows progress since 1997. reviewed and adjusted in 2000-2001. Recovery plan progress timetable Performance targets reported against during 2000-2001 were: • state conservation priorities established by June 2002 • conservation priorities for 60 per cent of bioregions 1997 established by June 2002 • 20 per cent of listed threatened species covered by recovery 1998 or threat abatement plans by June 2003

Following the annual review of the NPWS Corporate Plan 1999 2000-2003, these performance targets have been replaced, effective from 1 July 2001, by: 2000 • plans of management developed to schedule • NSW Biodiversity Strategy implemented to schedule • regional conservation plans prepared for priority areas 2001 within agreed timeframes • threatened species recovery plans and threat abatement plans 0 5 10 15 20 developed to schedule Number of plans • regional cultural heritage strategies developed for New Approvals South Wales by June 2003 Draft Exhibition Performance results 2000-2001 • During 2000-2001 work was undertaken in developing a Future directions process to identify conservation priorities for both cultural In 2001-2002 the NPWS will continue to work with the and natural values. Four of the state biodiversity strategy community and other government agencies to establish agreed projects, the regional conservation assessment framework, criteria for cultural and natural significance. This is an state conservation monitoring project, interim ecosystem important step towards the establishment of state conservation listings project, and the bioregional overviews project were priorities. progressed according to original timeframes. Another major area of activity will be the continued • The development of the NPWS conservation priorities accelerated development of recovery and threat abatement framework was scoped. plans to protect threatened species of flora and fauna. 43 Conservation management3

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park The management of natural and cultural heritage values across the state, incorporating • conservation incentives, education and advice • regulation and enforcement • the nurture and rehabilitation of the natural and cultural heritage landscape, including protected areas and beyond • the establishment of appropriate reserves • the ecologically sustainable use of protected areas 44 3Conservation management

Conservation management is undertaken by the NPWS and by Eden Regional Forest Agreement many other organisations and communities. It is not only Outcomes from the Eden Regional Forest Agreement in carried out on NPWS-managed lands, but right across New 2000-2001 included: South Wales. This section addresses conservation management in its broadest sense, and includes activities through which the • the employment of a number of Aboriginal staff NPWS is contributing to the achievement of NSW Biodiversity • assistance to Aboriginal cultural tourism providers as part of Strategy objectives. the NPWS Discovery program; • release of a monthly newsletter called Coastal Custodians, a specialist Aboriginal newsletter designed to increase Working with Aboriginal awareness and participation of Aboriginal people in the communities NPWS estate The NPWS works with Aboriginal communities to achieve the Aboriginal communities were represented in planning, in protection of natural and cultural heritage through mechanisms particular on plans of management, and where relevant the that also deliver social and economic benefits. Projects NPWS will enter into memoranda of understanding on key undertaken in 2000-2001 included: local issues. • development of an oral history report for the Oakhill Management partnerships Aboriginal Reserve Conservation Project, and the Memoranda of understanding (MOUs) are currently being establishment of signage and information displays discussed and negotiated with a number of Aboriginal groups • fencing works at the Orient Point Aboriginal Cemetery at for Bundjalung and Mt Warning national parks. These MOUs Nowra, a cooperative project with the Commonwealth cover matters such as joint cooperation, employment and Development Employment Program (CDEP) training opportunities, and cultural matters. • maintenance works, including stabilisation, fencing, revegetation and interpretative signage, on burial sites at Joint management agreements were established with the local Crescent Head on the mid North Coast and Karuah in the Aboriginal land council at Eurobodalla National Park, and Hunter region negotiations commenced over the joint management of land at • conservation at the Australian Museum of the Corelette Seal Rocks and the newly acquired Wellington Aboriginal Aboriginal Lookout Tree which was near Port Stephens. mission and convict stockade. The tree was damaged and unsafe and was removed from the site with the agreement of the local Aboriginal community. It is now on display in the main entrance of A Brown the museum. • provision of topographic mapsheets to the Garby Elders Group, Yarrawarra, to assist in their collation and mapping of significant Aboriginal sites within their area In addition, burials were discovered by cavers in the Coolamon Plains karst region within Kosciuszko National Park. Conservation works involving the Snowy Mountains Elders Group and the NPWS were undertaken on the burials. In addition, repatriation of removed Aboriginal remains is currently being arranged between the NPWS, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and the local Aboriginal community. Joint management of national parks Discussions and research to identify Aboriginal owners and negotiations about the return of land continued throughout the year for Mungo, Stockton Bight, Biamanga and Gulaga national parks, and Mt Grenfell Historic Site. At Warrell Creek, negotiations are continuing between the NPWS and the Nambucca and Unkya local Aboriginal land councils to develop an agreement to return claimed land and establish part of the area as a nature reserve to be leased back to the NPWS. At Arakwal, an indigenous land-use agreement is being negotiated regarding the creation of a new national park at Byron Bay.

Biamanga National Park on the South Coast is one of several parks being discussed with local Aboriginal land councils with a view to joint management. 45 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Working with Aboriginal communities

Performance targets 2000-2003 The following graph shows the number of Aboriginal people employed by the NPWS or in associated activities. • Increased participation by Aboriginal people in management committees and advisory bodies 350 • Increase in the number of agreements in place with Aboriginal communities for the management or use of 300 protected areas • Increase in the number of Aboriginal people employed by 250

the NPWS or in associated activities 200

Performance results 2000-2001 150 The following graph shows participation by Aboriginal people 100 in management committees and advisory bodies. 50 100 0 Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 80 No. of Aboriginal people employed in associated activities 60 No. of Aboriginal people employed by NPWS

40 Future directions

20 The NPWS will continue to work with Aboriginal communities and organisations in relation to joint management of protected areas and to deliver Aboriginal heritage 0 Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 conservation outcomes across the landscape.

No. of Aboriginal members on committees No. of committees with Aboriginal members

The following graph shows the total number of agreements in place with Aboriginal communities for the management or use of protected areas.

20

15

10

5

0 Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01

NOTE: This figure may include informal, non-statutory agreements. 46 Conservation management

Outside the reserve system agreements contribute significantly to the conservation of priority forest ecosystems which are under-represented in the Traditionally New South Wales has depended on the creation public reserve system, to the establishment of vegetation of national parks to conserve areas of natural and scenic corridors in the landscape and to the protection of significant beauty. This has resulted in a network of public conservation threatened species habitat. Active promotion within the reserves that is internationally recognised. Many of our most community continues to attract interest from new landholders. vulnerable ecosystems and native plants and animals, however, The NPWS, in conjunction with the South-east Catchment are found on private land within agricultural production areas Management Board, is developing agreed assessment criteria or close to cities. Traditional approaches to public conservation for determining priorities and resource allocation for will not be sufficient in these areas and new and innovative outstanding VCA applications. approaches are required. More VCAs are under development, including Croome Road The NPWS is working to increase conservation on privately VCA, which is currently with the Shellharbour Municipal managed land through a number of mechanisms and to Council for endorsement. The VCA covers 22 hectares of recognise the contribution of landholders to conservation. council reserve and protects a population of the endangered orchid Pterostylis gibbosa and endangered vegetation Voluntary conservation agreements communities. Other voluntary conservation agreements are It is 10 years since the first voluntary conservation agreement being negotiated in the mid North Coast area. (VCA) was signed. These agreements between the landowner and the Minister for the Environment outline how the land will Biodiversity conservation programs be managed into the future. They help landholders protect the natural and cultural values of their properties. Each agreement Bushcare is registered on the land’s title, thereby being passed on to Bushcare is a component of the Commonwealth Government’s successive owners. Typically the lands covered by VCAs have Natural Heritage Trust. The goal of Bushcare is to reverse the at least one of the following features: habitat for species listed decline in the quality and extent of Australia’s native as nationally endangered or as threatened within New South vegetation cover. The Bushcare program invests in a range of Wales, declared wilderness, high-quality remnant vegetation, projects focused on on-ground protection of native vegetation. or sites of Aboriginal significance. Landholders with VCAs In 2000-2001 Bushcare invested over $12 million in 286 receive assistance with on-ground works, including fencing, projects in New South Wales. weed control and surveys, to help implement their agreements. The NPWS has a key role in the delivery of the Bushcare Nineteen VCAs were signed during 2000-2001, bringing the program within New South Wales, being responsible for its total at 30 June to 101, and these will be regularly monitored. statewide coordination and urban Bushcare facilitators, and for Over 7,200 hectares are now protected by VCAs in New South jointly managing the program in conjunction with the Wales. Of particular significance was one landholder who Department of Land and Water Conservation. During 2000- signed VCAs protecting four properties on the far South Coast 2001 the nine regional facilitators were strengthening contacts of New South Wales. at the regional level, and assisting groups and organisations to In the south-east corner of New South Wales eight VCAs were develop projects to seek funding. Bushcare network members finalised in 2000-2001 and a further eight advanced towards have been assisting the Commonwealth to develop and completion. In addition, vegetation surveys have been implement a monitoring and evaluation program to provide conducted to assist two private landholders to develop their valuable information on the success of the program in own VCA documentation. VCAs continue to develop New South Wales. momentum, with over one-third of the state’s 100 VCAs Grassy Box Woodlands Conservation located in the south-east of New South Wales. These Management Network The Grassy Box Woodlands Conservation Management Network assists woodland owners and local communities involved with management and protection of locally M & M Donohue significant sites. This is a trial of a model for protecting and managing fragmented ecosystems. Activities have included field days, ecological burns and thinning, weed clean ups, floristic surveys, management advice on activities such as mowing and grazing, development of interpretive signs, negotiation of voluntary conservation agreements and plans of management, production of a newsletter, Woodland Wanderings, and development of a management database. There are currently 39 sites involved with the Grassy Box Alan and Lyn Scrymgeour (left) sign a voluntary conservation agreement to protect their Woodlands Conservation Management Network. A national property, Timbarra, on the South Coast. With them are Environment Minister Bob Debus and agreement negotiator Jay Stowe. 47 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Landcare The NPWS participated in the Landcare program as a member of the NSW State Landcare working group, which includes M Henderson/NPWS representatives from other government agencies and the community. This provided the NPWS with opportunities to work closely and share information with groups involved with on-ground work addressing important biodiversity issues.

NSW Roadside Environment Committee The NSW Roadside Environment Committee facilitates the management of NSW roadsides for the benefit of the environment and the public. The NPWS, together with other land managers, participated in the committee, which runs training and workshops on assessment and conservation of One of 39 current sites in the Grassy Box Woodlands network. The network aims to remnant native vegetation along roadsides. help woodland owners and local communities protect this much depleted and fragmented ecosystem. Wildlife management workshop was held in Canberra to bring together groups and Kangaroo Management Program agencies undertaking similar work across Australia. National The Kangaroo Management Program is the largest wildlife guidelines are currently under development. The project is management program in New South Wales. The Kangaroo supported by the Natural Heritage Trust through the National Management Unit, located in Dubbo, works closely with Reserve System Program and Bushcare. universities and wildlife agencies from other states. Farming for the Future The NPWS is currently involved in a project modelling and monitoring the spatial and temporal dynamics of kangaroo The NPWS continued to co-sponsor this farm planning populations. The NPWS also convenes the NSW Kangaroo program, which is jointly administered by the NPWS, the Management Advisory Committee. Through this committee, Department of Land and Water Conservation, NSW landholders, animal welfare and conservation groups, the Agriculture and the NSW Farmers’ Association. The program kangaroo industry and other state agencies contribute to runs workshops for landholders through an integrated kangaroo management. The Kangaroo Management Program is workshop series. The NPWS has employed facilitators in currently being reviewed with the assistance of the advisory Queanbeyan, Bathurst, Armidale, Grafton, Griffith, Cobar, committee. Over 6,000 licences are issued annually and 10,000 Dubbo and the Upper Hunter. returns providing information on species, weight and gender The NPWS received Natural Heritage Trust funding to are received and entered by the NPWS. enhance the biodiversity component of the program’s property management planning workshop series. This assists the NPWS Approvals for keeping native animals to incorporate biodiversity in property planning programs. To ensure the care and protection of native animals, the NPWS issues a number of licences relating to their captivity and ANZECC monitors adherence to licence conditions. Licences issued are The NPWS continued its involvement in the Australia and shown below: New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council Licences 1999-2000* 2000-2001 (ANZECC) working group on nature conservation on private land. This group has overseen the national implementation of Keeping reptiles 4,234 5,685 the Land for Wildlife Scheme. On 29 June 2001, ANZECC Keeping amphibians 490 619 was dissolved and its work subsumed into the Natural Keeping birds 4,997 3,714 Resource Management Ministerial Council and the Keeping native mammals 38 45 Environment Protection and Heritage Ministerial Council. Exporting native wildlife from NSW 431 437 Importing native wildlife into NSW 998 1,219 Southern integrated forestry operations Scientific research licences 859 927 approval Bird dealers 105 109 During 2000-2001 the NPWS made a substantial contribution Miscellaneous** 561 536 to the development of a NSW forest agreement and an Total 12,713 13,291 integrated forestry operations approval for the southern * Due to a transposition error, the figures for 1999-2000 were published incorrectly in last year’s annual comprehensive regional assessment. The Department of Urban report. They are listed correctly above. Affairs and Planning placed a draft forest agreement for ** Miscellaneous licences include licences for bird trappers, pest control, wildlife rehabilitation, taxidermy, southern New South Wales on exhibition from 30 April to emu farming and egg carving, holding specimens of protected fauna, etc. 1 June 2001 which will be finalised in the next year. 48 Conservation management

The number of licensed bird keepers declined during the year Ecologically sustainable by about 25 per cent, from 4,997 to 3,714, mainly as a management of NPWS operations consequence of the exemption from licensing of 30 bird species from August 1999. The number of reptile and amphibian A key objective for the NPWS is to employ effective systems licenses increased by 33 per cent from 4,724 to 6,304. to ensure the ecologically sustainable management of its operations, including on NPWS reserves. During the year a Native Animal Keepers Consultative Committee was established as an official forum for discussion Threatened species conservation of issues related to the keeping of and trade in native animals. The committee, which includes representatives of conservation Weeds and pest animals are recognised as broad threats under groups, met on four occasions. the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Pest threats listed as key threatening processes include predation of native fauna by foxes, feral cats and plague minnow (Gambusia holbrooki) and invasion of native plant communities by bitou bush. Other nominations for pest threats are currently under consideration by the NPWS. Outside the reserve system NPWS has prepared a draft threat abatement plan for foxes Performance target 2000-2003 that details a strategy to minimise the impact of foxes on threatened and other native fauna across New South Wales. • Increase in the area of land outside the reserve system Examples of affected native fauna are the yellow-footed rock formally managed for conservation outcomes wallaby, southern brown bandicoot and little tern. Implementation of the plan will result in fox control practices Performance results 2000-2001 for nature conservation in New South Wales which will The following graph shows the increase during 2000-2001 in proactively determine priorities for management to be applied the area of land outside the reserve system formally managed across all public land tenures. In particular the draft plan for conservation outcomes. identifies species most at risk from fox predation and the localities where the benefits of fox control will be greatest. Eighty-one priority sites for fox control have been identified 14 across the state, providing recovery actions for 34 threatened 12 species (11 mammals, 15 birds and 8 reptiles).

10 The NPWS also has responsibility for preparation of recovery plans for species, populations or ecological communities listed 8 as threatened under the Threatened Species Conservation Act. Key weed control programs underway to protect threatened ,000 hectares 6 species include those associated with the habitats of the following species: the endangered dwarf mountain pine 4 Microstrobos fitzgeraldii, in Blue Mountains National Park; 2 Allocasuarina portuensis in Sydney Harbour National Park; Rutidosis leptorhynchoides in Queanbeyan Nature Reserve; 0 Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 Cynanchum elegans in Booti Booti and Woko national parks and Glenrock State Recreation Area; the magneta lilly pilly Aboriginal Place declarations Syzigium paniculatum in Wyrrabalong and Myall Lakes VCAs national parks; Diurus praecox and Tetratheca juncea in Glenrock State Recreation Area; Zieria prostrata in Moonee Beach Nature Reserve; Sophora tomentosa and Chamaesyce Future directions psammogeton in ; and blackberry The NPWS will continue to work towards enhancing the range removal to protect the Bathurst copperwing butterfly of formal incentives for the ecologically sustainable Paraleucia spinifera at various sites in central-west New South management of land outside the reserve system. It will also Wales. The NPWS is also working closely with Sydney Water seek to influence land-use decisions outside the reserve system and Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council to protect blue gum high by working with local government, other government agencies forest in the Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve. The forest has and community groups. The NPWS will seek to increase the been listed as an endangered ecological community. area of land outside the reserve system formally managed for Work continued to restore the endangered Cumberland Plain conservation outcomes, primarily through increasing the woodland community within the Mulgoa Nature Reserve, number of voluntary conservation agreements. Bioregions involving the Mulgoa Landcare Group and bush regeneration poorly represented in the reserve system and key corridor contractors. Works included the removal of woody weeds such linkages between reserves will be particularly targeted. as privet, lantana, olives, blackberry and non-native grasses, and the destruction of feral animal harbour. Australian 49 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Expenditure per hectare on In 2002 two reviews will be undertaken: recycled products, NPWS-managed lands their performance, and guidelines on their use; and standard 40 operating procedures for NPWS depots to ensure they 35 incorporate environmental management standards. These 30 reviews were postponed in 2000-2001 due to resources being 25 diverted to the higher-priority Asset Management System. 20 Government Energy Management Policy

Dollars/ha 15 The NSW Government Energy Management Policy (GEMP) 10 was launched in 1998. The GEMP provides a framework for 5 energy management practices that minimise energy wastage, optimise energy efficiency and minimise the quantity and cost 0 67 70/71 74/75 78/79 82/83 86/87 90/91 94/95 98/99 of energy consumed. This covers all types of energy, including Year electricity, gas, petrol, diesel and aviation fuel. The NPWS developed its energy management plan in August 2000. Museum Business Services were engaged to collect baseline Over the past two years the reports submitted to the Ministry of natural resource data for Mulgoa Nature Reserve as a Energy Utilities, as required under GEMP, have shown that precursor to preparing the draft plan of management. energy consumption has actually increased. The reason for this is the increase in park estate and staff in regional offices. Southern Regional Forest Agreement Nevertheless, the NPWS is expected to demonstrate a downward trend in its consumption of electricity and fuel over the next few On 24 April 2001 the NSW and Commonwealth governments years, in accordance with the government’s commitment. signed a regional forest agreement for the South Coast and Tumut sub-regions. This agreement ends years of conflict over The NPWS head office in Hurstville, and several offices in the logging of old growth forests and provides a guarantee that the north of the state and in Queanbeyan, currently purchase at timber industry will be supplied 48,500 cubic metres per year least 10 per cent green power under the NSW government of high-quality large logs from the South Coast region and electricity supply contract. 48,000 cubic metres per year from the Tumut region. The 2000 GEMP report highlighted environmental initiatives The first of four years of capital works funding was provided such as at the Yarrangobilly Caves, where hydro-electric power for recreational facilities in the extensions to Morton and is used to generate electricity, the Snowy Region Visitor Murramarang national parks that resulted from the Southern Centre, which has a geothermal heating system, and the Regional Forest Agreement. The money will be used to acquisition of some dedicated LPG motor vehicles. improve or develop day-use facilities and lookouts, walking The NPWS engaged a company to do a comprehensive audit tracks, and bush camping areas. of every energy account that the NPWS received in the period June 2000 to May 2001. This will provide the NPWS with Caring for the environment accurate data and enable it to start comparing its performance on energy management across the state. It will also provide the Environmental management system base data to enable each NPWS area to benchmark its As the prime conservation agency in New South Wales, the performance. This report is expected early in the new financial NPWS must consider the environment in all aspects of its year. In addition, each finance service centre is recording the operations. As well as fulfilling our statutory responsibilities, consumption details from each electricity account using the we should be a model for other organisations and the software package SAP. This should enable the NPWS to community. To this end, the NPWS has established a retrieve more accurate data from the system for future years. comprehensive environmental management system (EMS). The implementation of the EMS by June 2003 has been set as Waste management a performance target in the NPWS Corporate Plan 2000-2003 and will be tracked under the corporate performance Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy monitoring system. The NSW Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy (WRAPP) Actions completed during the year included the development was announced in 1997, requiring all state government and distribution to staff of an EMS information booklet, agencies to develop and implement a WRAPP plan to reduce implementation of the Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy waste and increase purchases of recycled content materials in (WRAPP) Plan, implementation of the Government Energy four areas: Management Policy (GEMP), review of environment- • paper products related legislation to clarify the NPWS’ obligations, and a • office equipment and consumables (eg toner cartridges) review of sewage management actions and their performance • vegetation material (tree clippings, leaves etc) in the field. • construction and demolition material 50 Conservation management

The NPWS provided its annual WRAPP progress report to the The cost of the upgrade is being minimised by using as much Environment Protection Authority in May 2001. During the of the existing infrastructure as possible. Most of the works are year the NPWS developed a communication strategy to already complete. The upgrade of the sludge storage facilities disseminate information regarding the WRAPP to all staff. and final augmentation of the plant is due for completion in One of the strategies being employed to reduce the amount of 2001-2002. Augmentation is necessary to cover an anticipated paper being generated is the issuing of internal memos via increase in sewage resulting from additional beds in the email. Staff are also encouraged to use double-sided copying Perisher Range resorts, which were approved by the NSW whenever possible, and recycled paper is used throughout the government in 1999. NPWS. The WRAPP plan will be reviewed in 2001-2002. Stormwater management Sewage management Stormwater management devices to minimise erosion and run- A number of initiatives were undertaken throughout the NPWS off were installed in a number of parks, including Wolli Creek to better manage sewage. These included: and Western Sydney regional parks. • contained effluent and composting toilets have replaced pit Recycling toilets in Crowdy Bay and Willi Willi national parks and Limeburners Creek Nature Reserve on the mid North Coast In early 2001 the NPWS embarked on a recycling program at • toilets at the Lighthouse Precinct in Cape Byron State all its major offices. Recycling services for plastic, glass, Recreation Area were approved to be linked to the Council’s aluminium and steel containers, and organic waste are also sewer system now in place in most of the heavily visited parks, other than in • a pit toilet replacement program has commenced throughout those where visitors are encouraged to remove their own World Heritage reserves in the north of the state, with rubbish. There is a program for recycling waste cooking oil in composting toilets constructed in Richmond Range, Mebbin, the Perisher resort area of Kosciuszko National Park. Koreelah, Bundjalung and Nightcap national parks and Tyagarah Nature Reserve. Planning has commenced for the installation of composting toilets at • in the Snowy Mountains area, a number of unlined toilets in close proximity to pristine waterways such as the Murray Ecologically sustainable management and Swampy Plains rivers were identified for replacement. Eight sealed pump-out pit toilets were installed Performance target 2000-2003: • improved sewage treatment systems were installed at • Environmental management system implemented by Apsley Falls and Tia Gorge visitor areas in Oxley Wild June 2003 Rivers National Park and Mann River Nature Reserve • solar-powered pumps are now used at visitor facilities Performance report throughout the Northern Tablelands area The environmental management system is being implemented, and progress monitored. Progress for 2000-2001 includes: Myall Lakes National Park toilet and waste-water study • recycling of paper at head office and regional offices • recycling of plastic, glass, aluminium and steel containers, A toilet and waste-water study in Myall Lakes National Park and organic waste in most heavily visited parks (1999) recommended a systematic upgrade of toilet facilities, • review of all environment-related legislation in terms of a public education campaign to change visitor use practices, NPWS obligations together with revegetation of foreshore areas to minimise • development of the NPWS motor vehicle best practice nutrient flows into the lakes system. The NPWS has guide, which includes information on regular servicing of commenced installing new toilets throughout the park, with a vehicles to ensure maximum performance projected cost of $1 million over two years: $400,000 in • inclusion of an EMS component in future training and staff 2000-2001, and a further $600,000 to complete the project in induction programs 2001-2002. • engagement of an energy consultant to analyse electricity Upgrade of Perisher sewage treatment plant usage The NPWS has been engaged in upgrading the Perisher Valley Future directions sewage treatment plant over the past four years. The upgrade A key initiative over the next three years will be the will meet new and more stringent effluent standards, and implementation of the environmental management system. improve the capacity and operating reliability of the system. The NPWS will undertake more audit activity, and benchmark The total cost of the project, to be completed by June 2002, is our performance with respect to the ecological sustainability of estimated at $12 million. The plant is a centralised facility that NPWS management practices. In addition, the NPWS will provides the principal means of treating and disposing of sustain its commitment to fire and pest management. sewage from the residents and day visitors using the Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega and Blue Cow ski resorts. 51 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Managing our built assets

The NPWS seeks to manage its built assets to ensure S Brown/NPWS conservation of natural and cultural heritage values, and to facilitate the community’s enjoyment of those values, while at the same time ensuring the health and safety of visitors and staff. Buildings Projects undertaken as part of the Historic Assets Maintenance Program during 2000-2001 included: • conservation building works at Willandra homestead, , and Fort Denison, Sydney Harbour National Park • conservation works at Old Great North Road, Yarrangobilly Caves House, Goat Island Colonial Magazine, Montague Island Light Station, Throsby Park Historic Site, Georges Head Beehive Casemates, Nielsen Park Bathing Pavilion, Boyds Tower, Innes Ruins, Penders, Roto House, and a wide range of buildings at Hill End Historic Site. Grids placed on the ground allow for accurate recording as part of conservation work at • maintenance works at Hartley Historic Site, Hill End Innes Ruins, in Lake Innes Nature Reserve near Port Macquarie. Historic Site, Nielsen Park Bathing Pavilion and Roto House • repairs and maintenance works at the Quarantine Station, development of a draft strategic policy on cultural heritage, Greycliffe House and Goat Island interim guidelines for approvals for cultural heritage places, • conservation works at Kelly’s Cottage, Budderoo National buildings, landscapes and moveable heritage items, and the Park and Throsby Park Historic Site first regional cultural heritage management strategy developed • conservation works continuing at Georges Head Beehive and for the far South Coast region of New South Wales. the casement on Goat Island Roads and other access Greycliffe Gardens During the year road and walking track works were undertaken A generous sponsorship by the Westfield Foundation is throughout NPWS reserves to repair damage, upgrade allowing the restoration of the gardens of Greycliffe House in facilities and improve access and visitor safety and enjoyment. Nielsen Park, Sydney Harbour National Park, to mirror the Some of these included: Tresillian Home period of the 1930s and re-establish the • road works in Jervis Bay, Washpool and Crowdy Bay historic connection between the house and the harbour. national parks, Limeburners Creek Nature Reserve and Works this year included the production and public display of Munmorah State Recreation Area a landscape plan, the removal of several trees to open the • bridges repaired or replaced at Brindle Creek, Border harbour vistas and protect an historic magnolia, and the Ranges National Park and Koreelah Creek in Koreelah re-establishment of Matron Kaibel’s terrace garden. National Park, and in Kumbatine National Park • walking track repairs and upgrades in Cape Byron State Adaptive re-use of historic heritage Recreation Area, Shelley Beach Walking Track in Yuraygir The conservation and adaptive re-use works for the cafe and National Park, Little Congwong Beach in Botany Bay interpretation at Fort Denison, Sydney Harbour National Park, National Park, North Head Lookout, Lady Fairfax Walk and and holiday accommodation at Smoky Cape Lighthouse Dobroyd Head in Sydney Harbour National Park, and Cottages, were both commended in the Adaptive Re-use Bungoona Walk in Category for corporate/government at the National Trust of • viewing platform and major walking track improvements at Australia (NSW) Heritage Awards 2001. Minyon Falls and Protestor Falls in , Apsley and Dangars Falls in Oxley Wild Rivers National ANZECC cultural heritage benchmarking project Park, Wonga Walk in , Tianjara Falls, The NPWS will host the first annual workshop of ANZECC Fitzroy Falls and Long Point in Morton National Park, historic heritage managers in September 2001. The workshop Yellow Track in Bungonia State Recreation Area, Yuelarbah will review the progress of conservation agencies towards best Track in Glenrock State Recreation Area, Raspberry practice and where appropriate set higher levels of best Lookout in Bindery-Mann Wilderness Area, plus works in practice in historic heritage management. Mount Warning, Dooragan, Crowdy Bay, Brisbane Waters, The NPWS has made significant progress in most of the best Mount Royal and Wyrrabalong national parks, Burning practice processes identified by the project with the Mountain, Kattang, Victoria Park and Sea Acres nature 52 Conservation management

reserves, and Arakoon and Lake Macquarie state may possibly be in breach of the National Parks and Wildlife recreation areas Act. The NPWS, the Environment Protection Authority and • major maintenance and road upgrades on the State Forests of NSW are investigating this matter. The NPWS Scenic Drive and other flood-affected roads in the area, has insisted TransGrid undertake a program of remediation to the Old Great North Road, and in Barrington Tops, Booti deal with the environmental damage caused. Booti, Tomaree, Towarri, Camerons Gorge and Wallabadar national parks Other park infrastructure

A project was undertaken in northern New South Wales to Upgrading and redeveloping visitor facilities develop an accurate, standardised database of all roads within Major upgrading and redeveloping of visitor facilities was reserves in that area, to facilitate budgeting and planning carried out during the year at: processes. The approach developed by this project will assist other areas of the NPWS in the future. • Boatharbour Nature Reserve, Mebbin National Park and Tyagarah Nature Reserve A program of risk reduction works on the Alpine Way in • Cambridge Plateau (camping area and walking tracks), Kosciuszko National Park included improvements to drainage, Richmond Range National Park, and the camping area at installation of netting, gabions and soil anchors. The program Koreelah Creek in Koreelah National Park concentrated on sites between the park entrance station and • Washpools in Towarri National Park, installation of a Thredbo, and at Thredbo and south of Khancoban. picnic area Walking track construction and revegetation of • Youngville, Mount Royal National Park, completion of the Kosciuszko summit area visitor use area • Bongil Bongil National Park, picnic area at Bonville Creek A major upgrade has been underway since 1996 of the walking tracks of the Main Range, including the summit of Kosciuszko and the Main Range Walk. This is one of Australia’s most scenic walks and travels through rare plant communities, passing sparkling glacial lakes and providing stunning views in L Wren/NPWS all directions. The first 1.8 kilometres of the walk has been reconstructed, from Rawson’s Pass north to Mueller’s Pass. The upgrade of the Main Range walks and old summit road are to be completed by 2004, with various soil conservation works to be undertaken following the removal of grazing from the high country.

Cape Hawke summit development Work continues on the summit development project in Booti Booti National Park. The steps to the summit lookout are completed and the tower manufactured. Installation of the 8.3-metre tower is due for completion early next financial year.

Tomaree Head enters final phase of works In , the Tomaree Head walk is almost complete, with the construction of rock-based steps and steel observation decks, and the return of the radar equipment. More than $150,000 has been spent on what is a major upgrade. It is estimated more than 100,000 people walk up the Head each year to experience the world-class view.

TransGrid clearing in Kosciuszko region TransGrid is a (Statutory) State Owned Corporation responsible for the management and development of the NSW high-voltage electricity network. It has a large number of powerlines in NPWS reserves and an agreement exists for clearing to enable maintenance. In early 2001 TransGrid conducted extensive clearing under powerlines in Brindabella and Kosciuszko national parks and in which did not comply with the protocols in the agreement and Improving the walking tracks at the summit of Mt Kosciuszko: helicopters played a major role in carrying out this necessary maintenance. 53 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• Williams River Area, Barrington Tops National Park, completion of day-use facilities NPWS • Bonville Creek, Bongil Bongil National Park, construction of day-use facilities • Mill Creek, , construction of fire pits and large group camping area facilities, and interpretation stands and material at the Old Great North Road • Boarding House Dam, , new visitor facilities • Willi Willi and Tapin Tops National Parks and Brimbin Nature Reserve, picnic and camping area upgrades • Dangars Falls, Edgars Lookout, Apsley Falls and Tia Gorge, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, upgrading and redevelopment of visitor facilities • Lemon Tree Camping Area, Severn River Beach Walk, Macintyre River, Kwiambal National Park, completion of visitor facilities • Bellbird Camping Area, and Mann River Nature Reserve, construction of new galley, toilets and upgraded walking tracks using World Heritage funding • Boonoo Boonoo Falls, Boonoo Boonoo National Park, relocation of camping area

• Red Point, Hammerhead Point, , Senior Field Officer Tony Evans and Ranger Don Hardman at work on the upgrading of roads and Tianjara Falls and Yalwal, Morton National Park, and visitor facilities at Dangars Falls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. upgrading of visitor facilities

Visitor facilities at Mount Mackenzie recommendations, all of which were accepted by the NSW Nature Reserve government. A key recommendation was that an independent Mount Mackenzie Nature Reserve, 10 kilometres west of review be undertaken to assess the appropriateness of the Tenterfield, is a popular stopping point near the New England NPWS retaining responsibility for urban communities and Highway with magnificent views over the Northern road maintenance within the NPWS estate. On 30 June 2000 Tablelands. The NPWS provided $30,000 for a new cooking the Minister for the Environment appointed Mr Bret Walker, galley with gas barbecues, a new lookout area, disabled access Senior Counsel, to conduct this review and to report to the and signage. The project was completed with assistance from government by 31 December 2000. The terms of reference for the Tenterfield Council, and labour supplied by the Aboriginal this review were: Community Development Employment Program. • to review the effectiveness of the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s policies and practices in carrying out its New camping ground in Warrumbungle responsibilities for urban communities and road National Park maintenance within national parks and make A new camping ground has been constructed in Warrumbungle recommendations about the appropriateness of these National Park. The camping ground, to be known as ‘Walaay’ responsibilities remaining with the Service (pronounced wal-eye), is to cater primarily for groups and is • to examine all other recommendations made by Coroner located around the Department of Education’s Environmental Hand in relation to the responsibilities of other Government Education Centre. The existing group camping area, Camp authorities in the Kosciuszko National Park and recommend Elongery, is located on top of a large Aboriginal artefact any ways in which the carrying out of these responsibilities scatter and is degraded due to the high volume of usage. can be improved It is to be closed and the original vegetation regenerated. The review has been completed. Four key recommendations Walaay has been specifically designed to cater for buses and were made in the Walker report, and these were accepted by large groups. There are five sites catering for groups of up to the government. The key recommendations were: 150, with parking bays designed for buses with trailers. • that the ski resorts be retained within Kosciuszko National Composting toilets have been installed on site and it is a five- Park, under the management of the NPWS minute walk to the best hot showers in the state. • that a new regional environmental plan be developed to apply to the ski resorts Thredbo Coronial Inquiry • that the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning be the On 29 June 2000 the Coroner released the findings of his consent authority for future major developments in the inquiry into the 1997 Thredbo landslide, together with 10 resort areas 54 Conservation management

• that responsibility for the Alpine Way and the Kosciuszko Managing site-use in protected Road be transferred from the NPWS to the Roads and areas Traffic Authority The NPWS aims to manage site-use within the protected area Negotiations are underway between the NPWS and the RTA in system in a culturally sensitive and ecologically sustainable relation to the transfer of the Alpine Way. The regional way. During the year a number of policies were drafted, environment plan will be developed and the Kosciuszko reviewed or developed. These included policies on park National Park Plan of Management will be reviewed over a visitation, fees and charges, companion animals, firearms, two year period. In the interim, a State Environmental recreational horse riding, hang gliding, car rallies, management Planning Policy will be developed to give effect to the of cultural heritage information, Aboriginal community planning changes as soon as possible. consultation, and strategic policy for cultural heritage management.

Managing our built assets Managing site-use

Performance targets 2000-2003 Performance targets 2000-2003 • Reduction in maintenance liability by June 2003 • Statewide site-use policies and guidelines systematically • Reduction in health and safety related incidents involving developed and implemented either staff or members of the public Performance results 2000-2001 Performance report 2000-2001 • Strategic policy framework developed Changes to NPWS business processes and technology are • Strategic policy for cultural heritage management drafted currently underway. These changes will improve the • Preliminary strategic policy content prepared on: management of plant maintenance and information. – park visitation The following graph shows health and safety related data – fees and charges for staff. • Field management policies prepared or reviewed for: – management of cultural heritage information 140 – Aboriginal community consultation – companion animals 120 – firearms – recreational horse riding 100 – artificial waters 80 – hang gliding – car rallies 60 Future directions 40 The NPWS will continue to progressively develop statewide 20 policies and guidelines to minimise the effects of site-use. We will also develop and implement recreational strategies for 0 Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 sites identified as being ‘at risk’ from recreational use affecting conservation outcomes. No. of health and safety incidents involving staff since 1 July 2000 Total workers’ compensation claims involving NPWS staff since 1 July 2000 Active rehabilitation cases

NOTE: While the number of workers compensation claims during 2000-2001 was 126, this is an improvement on previous years when the figure had been around 150-160. Future directions A key initiative over the next year will be the development of a comprehensive asset management system to improve the maintenance of built assets, and ensure they are safe and healthy for staff and for the public to use. 55 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Contributing to communities

The NPWS seeks to ensure that its operations across J Winter/NPWS New South Wales contribute to the environmental, social and economic well being of local and regional communities. Contributing to sustainable rural and regional development As part of its mission of working with people and communities to protect and achieve natural and cultural heritage conservation in the New South Wales landscape, the NPWS is carrying out a program of research to assess the social and economic role of conservation in rural and regional development. During 2000 the NPWS completed regional economic impact assessments for Warrumbungle National Park, and Sturt, Kinchega, and Mutawintji national parks in western New South Wales. These studies assessed the economic contribution of park management and associated visitation to the regional economies in which these parks are located. As with previous regional economic impact studies produced by the NPWS, this information will be used in The Blue Mountains Heritage Centre at Blackheath received an Award of Distinction for conservation planning and management, and to contribute to Tourism Retailing at the NSW Tourism Awards. rural and regional development programs being produced by local councils, and other public bodies. for Montague Island Tours, Smoky Cape Lighthouse and During the year the NPWS held discussions with Blue Mountains National Park Discovery Tours. representatives from government agencies and academic Smoky Cape Lighthouse institutions to discuss the potential for collaboration on projects and initiatives in the field of conservation and rural The Smoky Cape Lighthouse complex in Hat Head National and regional development. A collaborative project commenced Park received a commendation in the National Trust Heritage with the University of Western Sydney on the contribution of Awards, and was runner-up in the Mid North Coast Region protected areas to community quality of life in rural and Tourism Awards. regional areas. The first stage of this project was presentation of a joint paper to the Australian Association for Social Touring By Car Research annual conference in May 2001. One of the routes selected by Tourism NSW for the During 2001 the NPWS will be presenting papers to meetings Touring By Car program was the Waterfall Way, which runs of regional development practitioners on the role of national east from Armidale to the coast. Along the Waterfall Way are parks in rural and regional development, producing reports on eight national parks, including three World Heritage areas. the economic and social value of public open space (in The NPWS provided assistance in the development of the conjunction with the Sydney Urban Parks Education and Touring By Car brochure through the Gorge Gateway working Research Group), publishing research on the economic value group based in Armidale. of recreational use for ten protected areas in New South Wales, Commercial tour operators policy and producing guidelines for local councils on incorporating conservation into regional development programs. The NPWS continued its review of a licensing system for sustainable tourism and commercial recreation operators. Tourism A draft framework document is nearing completion, but a number of outstanding areas such as buses and commercial Tourism awards consents still need to be addressed and integrated into the National parks play an important role throughout the state in document. Further work will be undertaken at the field level to assisting rural and regional economies by helping to attract develop effective implementation. In addition, there is close visitors to the local area. The NPWS is able to provide world liaison with Tourism NSW regarding the development of its class tourist facilities while still maintaining its primary role as statewide nature tourism strategy to ensure the approaches are a nature conservation agency. complementary. At the NSW Tourism Awards, the NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre received an Award of Distinction for Tourism Retailing. The NPWS also had finalists in four other categories 56 Conservation management M Cufer/NPWS

At the Sydney Camping and Caravan Show in April. NPWS officers from around the state were available to provide park and camping information to visitors.

Other activities The NPWS was represented on or was a member of a number The NPWS is continuing to work with the Council for Tourism of tourism-related organisations, including the Tourism Associations to customise the accreditation system for NPWS Industry Forum, Partnership Sydney, the Tourist Attractions visitor centres across the state. This will provide an Association and the Outdoor Recreation Industry Council. independent third-party accreditation standard. This representation allows the NPWS to present its position on the need for a sustainable approach to tourism-related The NPWS again mounted a major exhibition at the eight day activities. Caravan and Camping Show, Sydney’s premier camping exhibition held at Rosehill Gardens. Officers from across the Weed management programs state were available to explain NPWS policies, as well as The NPWS undertakes a large number of weed control providing park and camping information to regular and programs. The following provides a summary of a few of these potential visitors, and receiving feedback. programs. Details of these and other programs can be found on The NPWS continued to work with Tourism NSW and local the NPWS website at www.npws.nsw.gov.au. government in developing Tourism Gateway Centres at key tourist entry points to New South Wales. The NPWS provides Bushland regeneration advice and guidance in the development of the centres, as well The NPWS is undertaking restoration programs to control as providing displays, brochures and other materials for centre weeds and regenerate bushland in many national parks. staff and visitors. The NPWS provided input to Tourism NSW The strategy is to replace weeds with native species in such a on the development of their Nature Tourism Strategy and the way that the process of natural regeneration and succession is Tourism Masterplan. sustainable and that target weeds are not simply replaced by The NPWS met with the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority to other weeds. A number of these programs are supported by discuss opportunities for upgrading roadside signage for funding provided through the NSW Biodiversity Strategy, national parks and reserves. Coastcare and Bushcare programs, or through grants from the NSW Environmental Trusts. 57 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Much of the regeneration works is undertaken with the support each year the NPWS seeks community support in detecting of community groups. Volunteers regularly work with the and recording outbreaks of gorse in the Grose Valley. NPWS helping to remove a variety of weeds including bitou The Great Grose Gorse Walk has become a major community bush, lantana, privet, pampas grass, gorse and a wide range of event with over 140 person-days contributed by the community exotic vines and groundcover species. For example, in the over the past 12 months. Elsewhere in the Blue Mountains, Sydney area more than 500 volunteers assist the NPWS in the NPWS staff and volunteer groups have removed willow Lane Cove, Garigal, Ku-ring-gai Chase, Sydney Harbour, infestations from a number of remote waterways in the Botany Bay and Royal national parks. At Lane Cove National Kanangra-Boyd National Park and in the Gorge Park, 36 Bushcare groups work on a regular basis and the park area of Wollemi National Park. In addition the NPWS and the also fosters corporate and community days which allow private Blue Mountains City Council produced an education booklet organisations and community groups to ‘get their hands dirty’ titled Weeds of the Blue Mountains Bushland. The illustrated for a day. booklet provides valuable information on the identification of A major aim of bush regeneration programs is to increase the 30 most important weeds in the region with additional community awareness of the significance of environmental information on impacts, management techniques, and weeds and the need for their control. For example, in southern alternative planting options. Sydney areas the NPWS has consolidated its links with the On the Central Coast the NPWS has continued a habitat community, neighbours and Bushcare groups. Visits to schools restoration program in the Lake Macquarie State Recreation and the preparation of resource materials encouraged Area. A management plan has been prepared and priority participation in bush regeneration projects. actions started. The Department of Sport and Recreation, The NPWS has embarked on a massive bush regeneration which leases the area, has included bush regeneration as part program on several coastal headland areas around Sydney of its curriculum. Harbour and Botany Bay. The program has included abseiling Other bush regeneration programs have been conducted down cliff faces to pull out weeds, strategic use of herbicides in Wollemi, Yuraygir, Bundjalung, Hat Head, Tomaree, including aerial application for bitou bush, use of fire to Booti Booti, Myall Lakes, Wyrrabalong, Bouddi, Eurobodalla stimulate weed seed germination and preparing sites for major and Mimosa Rocks national parks, Broken Head, Tucki Tucki, replantings of native species. Wilson, Berkeley, Kattang, Cockle Bay, Wambina, Seaham In the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park, Swamp and Towra Point nature reserves, and Illawarra funding provided through the NSW Biodiversity Strategy has Escarpment, Lake Macquarie and Glenrock state been used to survey and assess the conservation values of recreation areas. weed prone areas. A bush regeneration strategy has been Rainforest restoration prepared to identify priority areas for action. Gorse is one of the most serious weeds in the Blue Mountains. To combat the The NPWS continued to undertake rehabilitation works in a problem, a regional management plan has been developed, and large number of coastal rainforest remnants. Successful programs are continuing in sub-tropical rainforest remnants in Wilson, Moore Park and Davis Scrub nature reserves, Dorrigo and Myall Lakes national parks and Glenrock State Recreation Area. Very rare remnants of lowland sub-tropical rainforest are

J Thomas/NPWS the subject of successful programs in Coramba and Wingham Brush nature reserves, on Susan Island in the Clarence River, and on Coocumbac Island in the . Programs are being undertaken in littoral rainforests at Broken Head, Brunswick Heads, Iluka, Sea Acres and Snapper Island nature reserves, and Royal, Wyrrabalong, Bongil Bongil and Booti Booti national parks. Several of these programs have been expanded with funding provided under the NSW Biodiversity Strategy. Weed species targeted vary according to the location of the reserve, but important species include bitou bush, lantana, Cape ivy, Protasparagus spp., cat’s claw creeper, Madeira vine, glory lily, coastal and common morning glory, Passiflora spp., privet, camphor laurel and fishbone fern. The NPWS, in conjunction with the Iluka Landcare Group and The Iluka Landcare Group and members of Conservation Volunteers Australia tackle bitou a variety of sponsors (NSW Environmental Trusts, Coastcare bush with gusto at . and Green Corps) completed a major restoration project in the World Heritage listed Iluka Nature Reserve and adjoining 58 Conservation management

areas. A rehabilitation plan for the dry sclerophyll rainforest on Snapper Island has been developed and this is being

implemented with the assistance of the Worimi Land Council H Creamer/NPWS and the Tilligerry Habitat Association.

Montague Island Nature Reserve kikuyu eradication program Montague Island Nature Reserve off the South Coast is home to a little penguin colony of approximately 12,000 birds. The NPWS and Charles Sturt University have been undertaking a two year research program to eradicate kikuyu grass from the island. Kikuyu grass invades the penguins’ habitat and poses a serious threat to their nesting. Many options were considered to control the grass, including burning. In June 2001 a burn being undertaken by staff involved in the research escaped its boundaries and killed approximately 42 penguins of the estimated 12,000 on the island. The penguin population was not threatened, however the incident was a sad loss for residents, tourists and NPWS staff. An independent investigation has been commissioned and the findings will be Pest Management Officer Ken Rivers releases an insect into lantana bushes in the Northern reported in next year’s annual report. Tablelands. The insect is one of seven biological controls being tested in the fight against this invasive weed. Cooperative programs targeting noxious weeds Weeds can be declared ‘noxious’ under the Noxious Weeds Act The education and awareness campaign launched in 2000 by 1993 if they pose a threat to agriculture, the environment or the Minister for the Environment has continued throughout the community health, and there is a public benefit from state. The objectives of the campaign are to: government expenditure on their control. • prevent cane toads establishing outside their existing range, The NPWS is represented on the NSW Noxious Weeds which is north of Grafton Committee and is a member of regional weed advisory • raise community awareness of cane toads, including their committees. The NPWS is keen to collaborate with other impacts on biodiversity stakeholders to ensure statewide and regional approaches to • increase community ownership of the cane toad issue and weed management are effectively planned and implemented. community involvement in their control Many of the NPWS weed control programs focus on • raise community awareness of native frogs and their environmental weeds because of the need to reduce the adverse conservation requirements impacts of these species on biodiversity conservation. The NPWS also undertakes numerous programs targeting noxious Guy Fawkes River National Park feral horse agricultural weeds, to protect neighbouring properties. Some control program of these weeds are serrated tussock, Bathurst burr, Noogoora In October 2000, NPWS staff undertook a feral horse control burr, Johnson grass, giant Parramatta grass and Scotch thistle. program in Guy Fawkes River National Park. This involved the aerial culling of 606 horses from the extremely rugged park. Pest animal management programs A great deal of public concern was expressed about the nature In 2000-2001 NPWS conducted more than 800 pest animal of the cull and the RSPCA undertook an investigation. control programs, of which 70 per cent were conducted in Following strong community reaction to the cull the aerial collaboration with neighbours and other stakeholders. Details shooting of horses in national parks was banned. The Minister of these cooperative programs are summarised under each pest for the Environment appointed Professor Tony English to species and more detailed information can be found on the investigate the program and make recommendations on NPWS web site at www.npws.nsw.gov.au. The following appropriate feral horse management initiatives. The full text of examples illustrate the range of the collaborative programs Professor English’s report can be found on the NPWS website undertaken by the NPWS. at www.npws.nsw.gov.au. In March 2001, the Minister announced that a study would be Cane toads undertaken into the heritage value of horses in the park. Cane toads are now established on the North Coast of New A Heritage Working Party was established under the South Wales as far south as the Clarence River. The only chairmanship of Associate Professor Frank Nicholas of the confirmed breeding colonies south of this area are two isolated Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, with colonies at Angourie near Yamba, adjacent to the Clarence membership from the local community. The final report of the River and one around Lake Innes near Port Macquarie. 59 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

working party is due in December 2001 and will be property, and natural and cultural heritage values on land under summarised in next year’s annual report. its management. Under the provisions of the NSW Biodiversity The RSPCA commenced prosecution of the NPWS in Strategy, the NPWS is also a lead agency in the objective to November 2000. This matter is still before the courts. improve fire management regimes across the state. With its strong emphasis on developing staff skills, the NPWS Regional programs now has more than 900 trained firefighters and over 300 On the NSW South Coast the NPWS is working jointly with support staff, together with a full range of vehicles, plant, the South Coast, Bombala and Braidwood rural land protection equipment and aircraft for fire management operations, boards (RLPBs), State Forests of NSW (SFNSW) and the particularly in remote areas. Victorian Department of Natural Resources and Environment to develop a regional approach to vertebrate pest control. Prevention A working group has been established and the RLPBs and Predominantly dry weather conditions across much of SFNSW have been contracted to undertake a regional New South Wales helped fuel reduction and prescribed vertebrate pest control program. Similarly, NPWS South-West burning operations during the winter months of 2000-2001. Slopes Region undertakes a cross-border cooperative pest The NPWS was able to conduct prescribed burning operations program with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service. over 19,733 hectares of its managed lands. In addition, The NPWS is working jointly with Coonabarabran, maintenance was undertaken on 5,276 kilometres of NPWS Coonamble, Walgett, Narrabri and Tamworth RLPBs, SFNSW fire trails in 2000-2001. and NSW Agriculture in a fox baiting program over a large Prescribed burning operations conducted by the NPWS are area surrounding the Pilliga Nature Reserve and Pilliga State directed mainly at protecting neighbouring areas, thereby Forest. The program aims to protect native species such as the protecting life and property. This is done through the threatened Pilliga mouse and to increase lambing percentages implementation of ‘asset protection zones’ along park and on farms. Further west, a major project to protect malleefowl reserve boundaries where appropriate. Prescribed burns are from fox predation in the Yathong, Nombinnie and Round Hill also focused through strategic wildfire control zones across nature reserves is complemented by an extensive ground parks. These zones provide fuel reduced areas that help to baiting program on surrounding properties and state forests break up and minimise the spread of wildfires and allow for which is coordinated by the Hillston RLPB. safer access for firefighters. Burning is also conducted to In northern New South Wales, the NPWS is a key participant in maintain appropriate fire regimes on NPWS managed regional pest animal groups such as the Northern Feral Animal lands, which aids in maintaining biodiversity within our Advisory Council and the North Eastern Pest Animal Advisory reserve system. Committee. These groups aim to develop a more coordinated Total area burnt in prescribed burning operations on approach to pest animal control within the areas they cover. NPWS managed lands since 1993 Both groups include representation from government agencies Year area prescribed burnt (ha) and rural lands protection boards and the north east group also includes representation from local councils. 1993-1994 47,816 1994-1995 35,778 Control of pest animals in or near urban areas is more difficult 1995-1996 25,572 than in rural areas and the NPWS has worked closely with 1996-1997 15,866 local councils and the community to address this issue. 1997-1998 9,601 The southern brown bandicoot is one of the few priority 1998-1999 12,971 species identified for fox control in the Sydney area. 1999-2000 6,752 The species is restricted to a few large reserves in the northern 2000-2001 19,220 Sydney suburbs. An innovative program is being trialled in this area to overcome the difficulties of fox control in urban areas. Total 173,576 In the program, 11 local councils, Taronga Zoo and the NPWS have combined to undertake a regional fox-baiting program Policy framework development within key bushland reserves. The program has wide A workshop was held in Sydney in November 2000 for key community support and its effectiveness is being monitored by NPWS fire operational staff. This workshop focused on regular fauna surveys. reviewing and updating the NPWS Fire Management Manual. The NPWS has developed 53 policies and related standard Fire management operating procedures to carry it forward in the area of The NPWS is responsible for the care and management of more prevention, preparedness, response and recovery, as well as fire than six per cent of the land area of New South Wales. Much of management administrative requirements. The new NPWS Fire this estate is some of the most rugged and bushfire prone Management Manual is scheduled for release around July 2001. country in the world. The NPWS has statutory responsibilities relating to the protection from bushfires of human life, 60 Conservation management

Standards of fire cover The NPWS is an active member of the Bush Fire Coordinating The NPWS is currently reviewing its standards of fire cover in Committee and its various standing and working committees. line with the newly developed Australian Standard to assist in The NPWS is also active in its representation on 97 per cent of determination of the resources, such as equipment and district bushfire management committees in locations where competent staff necessary for prevention and fire suppression the NPWS has parks and reserves. on its managed lands. The principle of hazard and risk The NPWS is working closely with NSW State Forests to assessment are to be applied across all areas of the NPWS to achieve similar prevention and response systems so as to assess the core firefighting resources required for the NPWS. achieve common-ground fire management between the two major land managers in New South Wales. Memoranda of Fire management training understanding are currently being developed between the The NPWS is currently aligning its training to the National NPWS and NSW State Forests, NSW Fire Brigades and the Public Safety Training Package which is a competency-based Rural Fire Service. The NPWS also maintains a cross-border package taking into account both curriculum based classroom cooperative fire fighting agreement with the Department of training and on-ground practical experience progression. Natural Resources and Environment (Victoria) in order to provide rapid fire suppression across the NSW/Victoria The NPWS conducts a comprehensive fire management border area of the Snowy Mountains. This arrangement will training program for its staff. Courses conducted include basic be replicated to cover the and Queensland firefighter, crew leader, the Incident Control System, helibase border areas. management, aerial incendiary operator, and Situation Officer, Resource Officer and Logistics Officer training. The NPWS and the Sydney Catchment Authority are taking a joint management approach to fire management, with the Courses were also conducted jointly with the Rural Fire deployment of seasonal fire teams for the Sydney water Service, State Forests of NSW, NSW Fire Brigades, the Bureau catchment areas. These teams contained all wildfires within of Meteorology (Severe Weather Section) and Natural the catchment to under eight hectares and completed 1,300 Resources and Environment (Victoria), in prescribed burning, hectares of hazard reduction burning during the year. severe fire weather, Fire Ground Manager, Air Attack Supervisor and Air Observers. The NPWS continued to be proactive in promoting and supplying resources for the development of 138 bush fire risk Reserve fire management plans management plans and plans of operation for bush fire Of the current 580 NPWS parks and reserves in New South management committees across New South Wales. Nearly all Wales, 516 require some degree of fire management planning. these plans have now been completed and signed off for There are at present over 230 reserve fire management plans adoption by the Bush Fire Coordinating Committee. The that are either in preparation, on public exhibition or have commitment by NPWS staff to this project has been extensive been adopted. Performance indicators have been adopted that over the last three years as the NPWS has been the main will enable the NPWS to monitor and report on its provider of information and development of these plans. effectiveness in achieving the objects of the plans. This major project is ongoing and focuses on biodiversity and cultural NSW Biodiversity Strategy: fire regimes heritage aspects of fire management within each reserve, the The NPWS was funded through the NSW Biodiversity fuel management actions to be undertaken and wildfire Strategy to address Priority Action 43: Manage fire in suppression issues. Each plan identifies Bush Fire accordance with ecologically sustainable development Management Zones (BFMZ) that are used to implement fuel principles. The NPWS commenced a project to achieve better management (prescribed burning), vegetation slashing and fire management by developing guidelines that identify fire trail maintenance. The issues of biodiversity conservation appropriate fire regimes for the conservation of biodiversity and operational suppression of wildfires are also addressed in within given ecosystems. The development of databases on the these plans. fire response and life history characteristics of flora and fauna species, and the conduct of original research into the effects of All fire plans are placed on public exhibition for three months infrequent fire, will aid the development of these guidelines. during which time local interest groups may comment on This project is in its second year with the aim of having a relevant fire management issues for the reserve. Relevant comprehensive overview available for use in 2002. interest groups and park neighbours are also consulted during the development of each reserve fire management plan. Wildfire record Coordinated fire fighting The record of wildfire occurrence on NPWS managed lands is listed in the table below. The NPWS is one of four firefighting The NPWS is committed to cooperative and coordinated authorities in New South Wales and has been involved in firefighting. This involves close liaison with NSW Fire wildfire suppression since 1967. Brigades, the Rural Fire Service and NSW State Forests for better coordination of fire preparedness activities. 61 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

On-park bushfires 2000-2001 bushfire season

Year No. of fires Area burnt on park (ha) The bushfire season began for the NPWS in mid August 2000, when the North Coast and tablelands of New South Wales 1989-1990 249 66,464 experienced drier than normal conditions. Within this area 1990-1991 425 125,469 many prescribed burns that were being conducted on adjoining 1991-1992 396 66,409 lands became wildfires as the weather deteriorated and 1992-1993 213 21,772 escaped into parks, reserves and state forests. During this time 1993-1994 300 382,897 numerous fires were started deliberately both on and off 1994-1995 250 89,112 parks across the North Coast and tablelands and within the 1995-1996 189 15,192 Sydney Basin. 1996-1997 194 12,670 1997-1998 466 236,152 Containing these fires proved difficult as most were burning in 1998-1999 189 14,195 rugged terrain. The lack of significant rainfall across north- 1999-2000 166 6,715 east New South Wales and Sydney prevented these fires from 2000-2001 389 217,695 being fully extinguished until mid October 2000. The situation required a heavy commitment of NPWS resources, with all Total 3,426 1,254,742 NPWS firefighting resources being dispatched to the North Coast and Sydney while the fires persisted. In any one day during this critical period NPWS resources allocated to these Wildfire statistics for parks and reserves fires were up to 551 firefighters, 71 fire tankers, 27 aircraft, Detailed records of fire origins and causes have been kept 17 bulldozers and graders and 3 fireboats. In addition, incident centrally in the NPWS since the 1993-1994 fire season. Of the management personnel and support staff amounted to just 1,706 fires that have started ‘on-park’ since 1 July 1993, 90 over 100. per cent of these fires were contained within park and reserve The NPWS dealt with a total of 454 bushfires covering boundaries. Only 10 per cent of fires have escaped from park 465,870 hectares, of which 389 were on NPWS-managed lands or reserve boundaries into neighbouring tenures. In contrast, (covering 217,695 hectares of parks and reserves) and 65 were over 20 per cent of all fires that have occurred within parks on neighbouring lands. The chart below identifies the major and reserves since 1993 began outside a reserve and crossed causes of the wildfires that occurred on NPWS parks and onto NPWS managed lands. These figures are summarised in reserves over the past year. the pie charts below.

NPWS parks and reserves – NPWS wildfire origin and control wildfire cause for 2000-2001

Started on park, controlled on park 71.6% Lightning Arson Started on park, moved off park 8.1% Suspected Arson Started off park, moved on park 20.4% Unknown Motor Vehicle Permit Burn-off NPWS containment of wildfires that started on Camp-cook parks and reserves Illegal Burn-off Miscellaneous Powerline Started on park, controlled on park 90% Other Started on park, moved off park 10% 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 % of total 62 Conservation management

Recovery and rehabilitation Contributing to communities

The NPWS is committed to recovery and rehabilitation after N Ewijk Van all fires occurring on its managed lands. Fires within parks and Performance target 2000-2003 reserves are assessed for appropriate recovery and • Increase in the number of joint NPWS-community tourism, rehabilitation measures to be undertaken when all suppression pest control and fire management programs activities have ceased. Performance report Some recovery and rehabilitation strategies used by the NPWS include wildlife rescue with the assistance of volunteer groups The following graph shows the number of programs run jointly such as WIRES (Wildlife Information and Rescue Service), by the NPWS and local government and/or community groups. the rehabilitation of temporary fire control lines (temporary 350 bulldozer trails and hand constructed trails and fire breaks) and tree surgery to remove dangerous tree limbs and trees 300 from visitation areas. 250 The NPWS starts the planning of any recovery or rehabilitation activities even before the fire has been fully 200 extinguished. These activities then commence during the ‘mop-up’ phase of the fire. Recovery plans are passed on to 150 the relevant NPWS administrative area for further 100 implementation. 50 Ku-ring-gai tragedy update 0 Four NPWS officers lost their lives and three were severely Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 injured following a fire hazard reduction operation in Ku-ring- gai Chase National Park in June 2000. An inquiry into the fire Collaborative pest species programs underway has been conducted and an inquest into the deaths will be Reserve Fire Plans underway conducted by the Deputy State Coroner. The Coronial inquest Joint tourism programs underway is expected to start hearing evidence on 16 July 2001. Three permanent memorials and tributes to the victims of the Future directions fire have been established, namely a memorial plaque on the Mt The NPWS will work with local and regional communities to Ku-ring-gai walking track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, encourage and promote tourism, while ensuring appropriate a community memorial site in Mt Ku-ring-gai and perpetual use of reserves. The NPWS will also undertake research on the achievement awards honouring the victims of the fire. environmental, social and economic benefits of NPWS reserves and programs for local and regional communities to support decision-making at state, regional and local levels. 63 Conservation facilitation4

Spotted gums (Eucalyptus maculata) The encouragement and support of community stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage across the landscape, and the sharing of appreciation and enjoyment of this heritage. 64 4Conservation facilitation

Community support for and involvement in the conservation of Rainforest education program – natural and cultural heritage on NPWS managed lands and Minnamurra Rainforest Centre elsewhere across New South Wales, is extensive and growing. The Minnamurra Rainforest Centre (MRC) continued to This section addresses ways in which the NPWS is working fulfil its core function of providing education throughout the with community groups and individuals in their conservation past year. The centre has hosted almost 110,000 visitors, of activities, and highlights some of the achievements of this which over 17,000 were primary and secondary school collaboration. Through its participation in these cooperative students who undertook formal education programs. programs and activities, the NPWS is further contributing to This makes the centre the largest non-school provider of the achievement of NSW Biodiversity Strategy objectives. education programs in the Illawarra. The centre now offers eight different programs which reflect Fostering commitment to natural the various syllabuses for Years K-12. These programs include and cultural heritage quality multimedia presentations in the centre’s classroom followed by guided walks on the Rainforest Loop Walk. The NPWS seeks to work with the community to foster understanding and appreciation of, and commitment to, natural As part of the centre’s role in providing quality environmental and cultural heritage. education, teachers who have booked an excursion to the centre now receive a locally produced CD-ROM containing Acknowledging people’s contributions teachers resource notes for pre and post excursion classroom to conservation work, on-site student work sheets, other resource links to reference books, journals and websites relating to the study Order of Australia Medal awarded to volunteer topic, maps and future booking forms. The feedback from Beth Williams, a founding member of the Armidale Branch of teachers to date has been extremely positive. the National Parks Association, received the Order of Australia During the year the centre established a strong working Medal in the 2001 Queen’s Birthday Honours, for her relationship with the NSW Department of Education and contribution to nature conservation on the northern tablelands. Training’s Curriculum Support Unit at Ryde. As a result of this Ms Williams has been involved in environment campaigns in association Minnamurra rainforest has been selected as a case northern New South Wales for many years. study on the Department’s recently launched HSC-Online Website: hsc.csu.edu.au/geography/ecosystems/case_studies. Educational programs A recently completed visitor centre display about biodiversity, Each year the NPWS undertakes a wide range of interpretation together with self-guided walks, provide all visitors with and education programs and initiatives across the state. informal yet informative material relating to rainforests and the These are undertaken on a local, regional and statewide basis environment generally. and often in partnership with other government agencies, non- government organisations and communities. These programs seek to provide learning opportunities for families, school students, vocational and industry groups, and the broader community through a range of programs and activities in a variety of settings, including national parks.

New marine mammal education kit for local H Creamer/NPWS schools The NPWS launched a new marine mammal education kit as part of a pilot program that has provided hundreds of local school children with the chance to see whales first hand from a Merimbula-based charter boat. The Gentle Giants kit, which includes a series of books, audio cassettes, posters and CDs was produced by NPWS staff with input from NSW Fisheries and local school teachers. It is available to local schools who are participating in a series of whale watching tours being offered free of charge by a local tour operator. The NPWS plans to monitor the use of the kits over the next two whale watching seasons with a view to exploring their suitability for use as a statewide educational resource to promote the conservation of threatened marine mammals.

Just a few of the 57,524 Discovery program participants during the year. 65 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

NSW Council on Environmental Education NPWS The NPWS has played a key role in the establishment of the NSW Council for Environmental Education, representing the environment portfolio. The role of the council is to advise the government on key issues, trends and research requirements relating to environmental education and to coordinate the preparation of statewide environmental education plans. During 2000-2001 the Council developed an inventory of environmental education programs and activities across the state and prepared a working paper on proposals for a statewide plan for environmental education. In 2001-2002 the NPWS will support the consultation process and preparation of the three year plan. As a member of the National Environmental Education Network, the NPWS has also supported national linkages to promote coordination and effective environmental education programs and initiatives.

Discovery program School students and NPWS staff at Walcha do their bit for threatened species awareness as The National Parks Discovery program focuses on providing part of the Discovery for Schools program. community education opportunities for the general public and interested groups, using interpretation techniques to bring Public attendance at Discovery displays and activities at these natural and cultural heritage themes alive. The program events totalled 306,921. employs local people with appropriate backgrounds as Discovery Coordinators and Discovery Rangers to deliver An Olympic program was planned and prepared for guests of education programs in national parks and other protected the government and NPWS Aboriginal Discovery tours were areas, and through outreach activities in locations such conducted in Sydney national parks during the Olympics. as schools. School programs In 2000-2001 the Discovery program achieved the following: A range of school programs was conducted across the state by • 57,524 program participants during the Olympics year the NPWS, through the Discovery for Schools program and • 2,313 educational walks, talks and tours conducted in other initiatives. 233 locations • an increase in urban community participation in the program The Discovery for Schools program has been developed to • maintaining a ‘very good to excellent’ rating of their complement the school syllabus, targeting particular topic experience by participants areas and class groups. In the Hunter area over 350 children, • evidence of community learning about natural and teachers and parents attended Discovery for Schools programs cultural heritage during 2000-2001. A special package of materials was • improvement in promotion through targeted advertisement, produced for the Saving Our Species Program. As part of this enhanced website and media coverage. program a role play activity – What happens to our animals • two corporate priority themes were delivered: Threatened when we move in? – was conducted at Planet Savers at the Species, and Woodlands and Wilderness. Wetlands Centre in Shortland. More than 150 children participated in this activity over two days. The Threatened Species theme used the bilby in the Easter school holiday program to raise community awareness and Cape Byron State Recreation Area developed ten primary understanding of threatened species and threatening processes. and secondary school education programs, including Teddy Woodlands and Wilderness was the theme developed to foster Bears Picnic, Seashore Treasures, Dolphin Dreaming, Whale understanding and appreciation of different forest systems and Secrets, Lighthouse Keepers Diary Walk, Earth Rangers, the concept of wilderness and its importance in the Nightwatchers and Environmental Field Study. Twenty-seven conservation of Australia’s unique species and ecosystems. activities for schools were held, with 861 participants. Theme kits provide Discovery Rangers with information and Cape Byron also conducted education programs during the practical guidance in the development of their guided tours and school holidays. the formulation of key messages, and answers to frequently In the northern rivers area, four school holiday programs asked questions. were conducted which included 109 separate activities and In 2000-2001 Discovery program staff were also involved in involved 2,060 participants. Discovery Rangers also attended 127 special events across the state to promote community five community field days ranging from farming through to education, an increase of 26 events on the previous year. environmental events. 66 Conservation facilitation

In the southern Sydney area, 123 school group activities under the Discovery for schools program were conducted and NPWS reached 6,883 students and 330 adults. The year round Discovery Walks, Talks and Tours Program attracted 2,970 participants. The NPWS partnered a research project with the University of Technology, Sydney, Department of Education and Training, Environment Protection Authority, and the Department of Land and Water Conservation which explored the socio-cultural influences on environmental understandings of NSW school students. The publication and launch of a full research report will take place in the second half of 2001. In 2001-2002 the research results will be shared with key internal and external stakeholders to inform the design and development of school education programs and resources. The Kosciuszko Education Centre at Sawpit Creek in Kosciuszko National Park continues to provide quality programs for students throughout New South Wales. These School of the open air: Year 7 and 8 students study biodiversity as part of their science programs aim to enhance knowledge and understanding of the syllabus through the Eco Ranger program. Snowy Mountains region’s heritage and management strategies, as well as provide an understanding of basic Eco Ranger ecological principles. During the year 3,590 primary students, Eco Ranger is a program for Year 7 and 8 science students 2,456 secondary students and 763 adults (including teachers) which is part sponsored by CSR through the Foundation for attended programs at the education centre. The centre also National Parks and Wildlife. It supports the Junior Science received a facelift with renovation of the toilets to provide syllabus by introducing biodiversity and the importance of its disabled facilities and bring the building up to modern conservation through an experiential biodiversity survey. standards. The centre has identified Aboriginal interpretation The program has a number of modules which build knowledge as a major focus in 2001-2002. and skills and encourage critical thinking. It was further The centre also coordinated the Snowy Mountains region’s developed during 2000-2001 with pilot programs conducted in Discovery program, which was attended by 1,421 adults and Sydney and Kosciuszko resulting in excellent evaluations. 958 children. In addition, Discovery Rangers patrolled the Sponsorship from CSR has continued in 2001-2002, and will popular summit area during peak periods, providing focus on training and equipping Discovery Rangers to deliver information to visitors and assisting with emergencies. the program.

Envirothon Envirothon is an environmental interpretation competition for Year 11 students in NSW public schools, undertaken in

L Wren/NPWS partnership with the Department of Education and Training, with prizes sponsored by Snowgum outdoor equipment company. The state final of Envirothon 2000 was conducted with the Sydney North Region during December 2000. It was a very successful and popular program with students. Sydney North Region staff conducted quality presentations and orientation tours highlighting the natural and cultural heritage values and management of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. More than 200 students from across the state competed in regional competitions and over 60 students and staff participated in the finals. In 2001-2002 Envirothon will concentrate on improving regional competitions and enhancing skills development in students in preparation for the competition.

Teaching resources

At the Kosciuszko Education Centre students learn about the heritage and management of The curriculum resource Journey With a Purpose, which the Snowy Mountains region. supports the Health, Physical Education and Personal 67 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

the Future program and be competitively delivered. Evaluations show that the Farming for the Future program has been successful in achieving objectives and targets, and has gained significant support in the farming community. All

Dept of Education & Training program facilitators completed their service at 30 June 2001. A state forum was held on 31 May 2001 to consolidate and document achievements and lessons of the program. During 2001-2002 the achievements of the program will be extended to develop property management plans for threatened species conservation and to provide a model process for assessment and planning with conservation partners managing wildlife refuges and voluntary conservation agreements. Two key resources have been developed by the NPWS to promote the importance of biodiversity conservation in property management planning: a kit which integrates biodiversity themes into the property management planning program, and a module which provides baseline survey methods to assess biodiversity values. This work has been Year 11 students compete in the Envirothon finals at Bobbin Head in Ku-ring-gai Chase trialled with very positive results in the northern and western National Park in December. This environmental interpretation competition proved highly areas of the state as an experiential field workshop using an popular with students. action learning model. The resource and the workshop provides a sound basis for farmers and conservation partners Development syllabus for Years 7-10, was developed in to undertake a ‘do it yourself’ rapid assessment of biodiversity partnership with the Department of Education and Training values on their properties, which can then provide an (DET) and completed and released in November 2000. information base for property management planning. This resource has been endorsed by DET for use in high In 2001-2002 this initiative will continue and be progressed schools across the state, and has been well received by teachers through threatened species and biodiversity program initiatives and commercial outdoor education companies providing and the Conservation Partners Program. services to schools. The NPWS has supported Tourism Training Australia in the In 2001-2002 there will be a focus on the development in revision of current competency standards for tour guiding by partnership with DET of resources for the Human Society in cultural and environmental guides. The NPWS has also been the Environment K-6 syllabus. This will include a significant involved in Eco Guide accreditation trials, and will continue component on Aboriginal cultural heritage themes. this support through representation on the Eco Guide Steering Committee for Ecotourism Training Australia. It’s A Living Thing: whole-of-government sustainability education campaign A tour operators’ information kit entitled A Resource Worth Protecting was completed in 2000, a joint project between the The NPWS has provided advice and assistance in the NPWS and the Commonwealth Department of Industry, development and evaluation of a major three year community Science and Resources. The kit fosters operator and visitor education campaign to raise awareness of sustainability and appreciation of biodiversity and supports the management of what people can do to help protect the environment. The first environmental impacts in national parks. The project was phase of the campaign focused on building brand awareness undertaken by NPWS staff, with support from the Ecotourism and introduced the concept of sustainability. This has been Association of Australia, the Outdoor Tour Operators followed by themes on saving water at home, saving energy Association and Blue Mountains licensed tour operators. and minimising paper use at work. In 2001-2002 the campaign The information kit was commended at the NSW Heritage will turn to themes on minimising impacts on the natural Awards in May 2001 in the industry education category. environment while enjoying the outdoors. A series of threatened species field days aimed at landholders Vocational and industry programs and the community were held at Lostock Hall, Glennies Creek Farming for the Future is a Commonwealth supported Dam, Howes Valley and Apple Tree Flat. These days provided partnership program involving staff from NSW Agriculture, an opportunity for participants to gain an understanding of the Department of Land and Water Conservation and the NSW threatened species and property management practices to Farmers’ Association. The program aims to build capacity in enhance biodiversity. Information was available on the farm sector to undertake strategic property management conservation incentives and private property conservation planning in small community groups. In 2000-2001 the initiatives, as well as an overview of the Threatened Species program completed its second stage. From July 2001 the Conservation Act. program will form part of the Farmbiz – Skilling Farmers for 68 Conservation facilitation

Interpretation NPWS The expression interpretation refers to information that has the objective of facilitating an understanding and appreciation of park assets and values. Following up on its support to the ANZECC best practice project on interpretation and education, the NPWS has commenced the development of policy and guidelines for interpretation. In tandem with interpretation capital works initiatives, these will provide practical guidance in interpretation planning and methods. In 2001-2002 further consultation with external stakeholders will be undertaken in completing the policy and guidelines. A short course in Applied Heritage Interpretation Methods was designed by Macquarie University in consultation with the NPWS and other key stakeholders. This capacity building course aims to enhance participant knowledge and skills in the application of interpretation methods including face-to-face approaches (such as tour guiding and storytelling) and non face-to-face approaches (such as web page and display design). The course commenced in February 2001 with 16 NPWS staff from regions sponsored for the course. The course is scheduled for completion in September 2001. Successful students will be given advanced standing in undertaking related further postgraduate studies conducted by the University. Painting a mural on Bega Bridge as part of an Aboriginal community education program A capital works project was initiated for interpretation during NAIDOC Week in July 2000. infrastructure in Dorrigo National Park, a key visitor destination and priority site for upgrading interpretation infrastructure. This project is being undertaken in partnership The NPWS has provided training to TAFE students and with North Coast Region and concurrent with the refurbish- Aboriginal communities regarding legislation governing ment of the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. The project is due for Aboriginal heritage management in New South Wales and the completion in September 2001. In 2001-2002 further priority roles and responsibilities of the NPWS. interpretation projects will target key visitor destinations. Aboriginal communities Aboriginal heritage management training An Aboriginal community education program was conducted Over the past five years the NPWS has carried out Aboriginal in July 2000 to coincide with NAIDOC Week. This program is community and government staff training in the areas of conducted statewide and aims to strengthen relationships Aboriginal site identification and management, on-site training through learning, valuing knowledge and building trust and in rock art conservation, cultural awareness, report writing, respect in the NPWS. The program works with Aboriginal skeletal remains identification and management, understanding communities to promote education in the broader community of legislation, and courses in understanding the Aboriginal site about the importance of Aboriginal cultural heritage and its register. These courses have always been highly sought after, protection and seeks to contribute to the reconciliation process. and demand is increasing. In July 2000 a week of celebrations took place across the state in conjunction with NAIDOC Week. A total of 3,792 people The NPWS is now in the process of bringing these training joined in 171 activities ranging from guided bush walks, modules together into an Aboriginal heritage management bushtucker tours, site visits, music, dancing and storytelling training package. A standardised package will allow consistent organised by NPWS staff and local Aboriginal communities. delivery of training that will lead to accreditation and a better understanding of existing skills, both within the NPWS and in The Aboriginal Discovery program has continued to grow and the Aboriginal community. prove popular. In 2000-2001 49 Aboriginal Discovery Rangers were employed to deliver Aboriginal cultural heritage and During the second half of the 2000-2001 financial year the other educational activities within the Discovery program, an Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE was contracted to develop increase of 16 staff from the previous year. a framework for Aboriginal heritage management training. The framework will be stage one of the project, with stage two Cape Byron State Recreation Area provided support to the being the completion of course content during 2001-2002. Aboriginal community of Arakwal by providing and assisting In developing the framework, the institute has examined in the development of the Arakwal Room in the Head Aboriginal heritage training material from many sources such Lighthouse Keepers Cottage. The Arakwal Room provides the as within the TAFE system, state and federal government and community with information on Life Today (native title and non-government bodies. agreements), White Settlement (land selection, massacres and 69 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

missions), Places of Plenty (bushtucker) and In the Beginning community visitors to the library were university or (totems, ceremonies and Dreamtime stories). TAFE students. Exchange of resources with other government agencies also Community education campaigns and programs continued with over 600 inter-library loans in the last year. Across the state, the NPWS conducts education campaigns and Journal holdings of the library have been listed in a statewide programs which increase local knowledge. In the Central Coast resource-sharing network for inter-library loans. A total of and Hunter area, a pest species school program was conducted 18 journals are now available to staff electronically through to enhance students’ understanding of the NPWS’ role in NPWS Internet computers. A bibliography covering the controlling pests. The NPWS also participated in a number of library’s substantial resources on Ecotourism was produced for tourism committees and organisations to promote the the information of staff and to assist library visitors. Hard copy sustainable growth of ecotourism in the Northern Rivers. guides to new books and new journal issues were sent to staff Displays were mounted at events such as Farmarama, Primex every 2 months in addition to electronic listing on the network. and 4WD and camping shows in Brisbane and Lismore and The collection was increased by 580 new books and guest speakers provided to various groups such as schools, subscriptions for 177 journals continued. University of the Third Age, tourism bodies, Probus and Scouts. With the relocation of the information centre to the National Parks Centre in The Rocks, the library now also provides a Wildmaps of western New South Wales display of documents for public comment. These include draft plans of management and Scientific Committee Wildmap is an innovative project developed in response to an determinations. identified need from the wider community for information on threatened species. The Wildmap project involves the provision Visitor centres of information on the backs of western New South Wales topographic map sheets, which in the past have been left blank. During 2000-2001 the Information Centre at Hurstville was The threatened species outlined in each case are those that may successfully relocated to the new National Parks Centre in the be encountered in the area covered by the map. There are heart of the tourist precinct in The Rocks, Sydney. The centre currently 66 Wildmaps in circulation in western New South opened on 1 September 2000 to service Olympics visitors, and Wales, covering an area of 173,000 square kilometres. was a major stop in the Waratah Walk, part of the Olympics Wildmaps are produced in conjunction with Land and Property Arts Festival held in conjunction with the Royal Botanic Information (LPI), a division of the NSW Department of Gardens. The centre, open 7 days a week, is a convenient place Information Technology and Management, with no additional in the heart of the city for annual pass and retail sales, and cost to the purchaser. They represent a valuable resource for information provision. The centre also exhibits statutory land managers, travellers and school children. display material such as draft plans of management and threatened species listings. Wildlife management manual for the The centre is responsible for the administration of annual pass Riverine Plains and supporter renewals across the state, and for processing A Wildlife management manual for the Riverine Plains annual pass purchases made via the e-commerce facility on the (Riverina area) was developed during the year. Recognising the NPWS website. important role landholders have in the long-term conservation Customer inquiries handled by NPWS National Parks of the unique wildlife of central and western New South Centre, Sydney Wales, the manual aims to provide user-friendly information to help them identify species and their habitats, as well as Year Telephone Counter Mail email providing information on behaviour and biology. The manual 2000-2001 53,459 16,180 468 6,270 outlines the main threats to species and actions that 1999-2000 50,733 2,075 825 2,788 landholders can take to help maintain particular species on Note: The National Parks Centre relocated from Hurstville to The Rocks, Sydney, on 1 September 2000. their land. It will also be of value to community groups and Figures include information inquiries at The Rocks and Hurstville for 2000-2001. other individuals as an information resource on the wildlife of Overall there has been a 35 per cent increase in customer the Riverine Plains. Similar manuals may be produced for inquiries with the biggest increase being in counter and other regions in the future. email inquiries. NPWS library Tenterfield Visitor Centre The NPWS library is located at the Hurstville office and A major new display featuring national parks of the Northern provides information services to the general community, Tablelands Region was created for the Tenterfield Visitors scientists and researchers, and to staff throughout the state. Centre, which has been nominated by Tourism NSW as one In the past year this included several visits by library staff to of six Gateway Information Centres in New South Wales. regional and area offices. Ninety percent of the 260 The visitor centre went on to win the 2001 Big Sky Country Tourism Awards for Business Excellence. 70 Conservation facilitation

Royal National Park Visitor Centre Assistance was provided to over 71,000 visitors to the Royal

National Park, and over 40,000 telephone inquiries were made A Dawson/NPWS about camping, pest species, fire, volunteer programs and attractions in southern Sydney parks.

Snowy Region Visitor Information Centre Located at Jindabyne, the Snowy Region Visitor Information Centre recorded a big increase in the number of visitors passing through its doors in the past 12 months. Just over 30,000 more people visited the Centre in 2000-2001 than the previous year, lifting total visitation to 213,000. The Centre is the town’s main point of contact with visitors to Jindabyne, passing on information promoting tourism and conservation, and providing important safety messages to those visiting NPWS staff with the newly discovered Nightcap oak in Nightcap National Park. Kosciuszko National Park. Media and promotions • scientific research – including the discovery of a large stick insect on Lord Howe Island which received world-wide In 2000-2001 NPWS staff provided ongoing information and coverage, the Nightcap oak and a third stand of the famous advice to local communities and Australian and international Wollemi pine media on issues such as: • park use fees • the natural and cultural significance of the Greater Blue • cultural heritage conservation – including the opening of a Mountains area, which was declared a World Heritage area restaurant on Fort Denison in Sydney Harbour in November 2000. This involved the organisation and During the Sydney 2000 Olympics NPWS staff were seconded promotion of the declaration ceremony and surrounding to the Olympics media centre at Homebush and assisted NSW issues, including management plans for four national parks Tourism in providing general information about national parks within the declared area. and conservation programs to visiting international journalists. • the wilderness assessment process in southern and western The Director General of the NPWS provided a briefing at the New South Wales Sydney Press Centre for international journalists, using • the NSW Biodiversity Strategy – on Threatened Species Day extensive background material collated by NPWS staff. and through ongoing promotion of new recovery plans and The NPWS also staffed the incident control room at Nielsen threatened species programs throughout New South Wales Park to coordinate and disseminate information about sailing • NPWS pest management programs and cooperative events and conditions on Sydney Harbour. programs throughout New South Wales I Brown

Environment Ministers Robert Hill (left) and Bob Debus (right) with singer Jenny Morris at the declaration ceremony for the World Heritage listing of the Greater Blue Mountains area. 71 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Throughout the year various communication strategies were developed to promote key conservation issues. A successful media program was run during the Easter holidays to promote L Wren/NPWS park facilities, the new Visitor Guide, and Discovery programs. NPWS staff also actively helped journalists cover local and statewide conservation, and liaised with local media through mechanisms such as weekly radio segments or newspaper columns. Local media releases promoted conservation programs and highlighted actions such as weed and animal pest control, fire trail maintenance, road works, public announcements on whales, seals and other wildlife awareness programs. Major community support was generated through strong media coverage of the inaugural Port Stephens Community Dolphin Census held in April. NPWS staff at Kosciuszko will be featured in a four-part reality television series titled ‘Southern Exposure’ which highlights the challenges of managing a park as large and Reality TV meets national parks with the filming of ‘Southern Exposure’, a four-part series on the ups and downs of running a large national park. diverse as Kosciuszko. Beyond Productions began filming for the project in January 2001 and it is due to be finished in information is expected to be available through the website September 2001. The series will be screened on ABC TV in early in 2001-2002. 2002. A new video, Kosciuszko Reflections, was also completed, along with 30 and 60 second community service The NPWS is working with the Office of Information announcements which were sent to regional TV stations. The Technology to develop an on-line government bookshop so video will be screened daily at video centres and also sold. customers can place orders for government publications over the internet. In the Hunter area, the NPWS developed public education and information programs to assist and develop community Government access centres knowledge of blue-green algae outbreaks, camping areas The NPWS is working with other agencies on a whole-of- closures due to safety concerns, park use fees and programs government initiative to provide improved access to for Myall Lakes. government services in selected rural and regional towns and Newsletters such as Annual Review and Over the Fence were centres. The NPWS will be supplying the centres with annual produced locally throughout New South Wales for national passes to sell as well as related printed information on national park neighbours and the public. Local publications such as parks and reserves. The centres will also provide customers these improve relationships between the NPWS and local with access to agencies’ websites. landholders and the general public. They inform and promote understanding and appreciation of natural and cultural Commercial filming and photography policy heritage. The commercial filming and photography policy was officially A Birdwatching Field Guide was produced through launched by actor Steve Bisley from the television series collaboration between a volunteer and the NPWS. It is a ‘Water Rats’, and has been well received by industry. The valuable, user-friendly field guide for birdwatching in Royal policy provides clear and consistent guidelines for commercial and Heathcote national parks. filming and photography activities in national parks and reserves across the state. It also provides access to appropriate Electronic service delivery areas for commercial filming and photography with strict As part of the NSW government’s electronic service delivery safeguards to ensure that the conservation values of the reserve (ESD) initiatives, the NPWS is developing and implementing a are not compromised. Income received from commercial number of ESD projects. The NPWS website is undergoing a filming and photography is retained locally to assist with major review and upgrade to improve the level of park and conservation and education activities. other information available. This has included an analysis of A major innovative promotional support document was also user requirements through a series of focus groups. The produced which highlights the range of potential film locations restructure of the site will continue into 2001-2002. Annual in national parks and reserves. This was distributed to film passes can be bought via an e-commerce facility, and 890 location managers locally and internationally in conjunction passes have been bought this way since the service was made with the NSW Film & Television Office. available in August 2000. The NPWS film library provided photographs for a number of All NPWS tenders are available to view and print from the tourism and promotional publications, including the Japanese NPWS website and NPWS job vacancies and other career language publication move. 72 Conservation facilitation

Fostering commitment to Increasing community natural and cultural heritage involvement in conservation Performance targets 2000-2003 The NPWS seeks to increase community involvement in • Increase in the number of partnerships with local managing natural and cultural heritage conservation in government and other organisations and community groups New South Wales. • Increase in the NPWS contribution to the community’s Volunteer and community programs natural and cultural heritage conservation knowledge, understanding, skills and behaviour Volunteers contribute thousands of hours of work in conservation activities. The NPWS helps and supports a Performance result 2000-2001 variety of volunteer and community programs throughout • The number of partnerships with local government and other New South Wales. These individuals and groups are an organisations and community groups increased during the essential element in the work of conserving natural and year. New partnerships included the Urban Wildlife cultural heritage. A sample of some of the activities carried Initiative, Biodiversity Strategy Education and out by volunteer and community groups during the year are Communication Working Group, Roadside Environment detailed here. Committee, and the Joint Assistance Program with The third annual cane toad ‘muster’ was conducted in the Conservation Volunteers Australia. Yuraygir National Park, Yamba area to assess cane toad • The NPWS was represented on a number of committees numbers and to raise community awareness of the effects of with other state and Commonwealth government agencies this pest on the local environment. Over 100 people including regional vegetation committees, catchment participated in the muster. management boards, water management committees, and At , the annual Bitou Bash program Landcare councils was again conducted. This program, a partnership between the • The NPWS jointly ran programs with other agencies, NPWS and the National Parks Association, is one of the including Bushcare, Farming for the Future and Coastcare longest running continuous NPWS volunteer programs. • Over 70,000 people participated in NPWS education programs Many other volunteer groups and individuals carried out weed • The NPWS contributed to or influenced a number of removal, rehabilitation and regeneration work throughout the curricula including the Environment Education Policy for NPWS estate, including groups at Lake Macquarie and Cape NSW schools, the Resource Worth Protecting educational kit Byron state recreation areas, Glenrock, Towra Point, Berkeley for licensed tour operators, the Community Biodiversity and Comerong Island nature reserves, Botany Bay, Georges Survey Manual, the EcoRanger program, Journey with a River, Royal, Booti Booti and Broadwater national parks, Purpose, and Envirothon 2000. Seaham Swamp, and in the Port Stephens, Illawarra, Hunter and Tweed Heads areas. Future directions Aboriginal community involvement The NPWS will further develop close working relationships, including partnerships, with a wide range of organisations and The NPWS joined with Booroongen Djugun College and the community groups to support them in their conservation Yarrahapinni Trust to sponsor a Green Corp program on efforts. The NPWS will continue to expand our educational Clybucca Historic Site. The Green Corps team was largely programs. In particular, we will continue to work with made up of Aboriginal young people and was a successful first Aboriginal communities to provide opportunities for Aboriginal for the state. people to present and interpret Aboriginal cultural values. In the mid North Coast of New South Wales the Gumbangirr and Djunghatti people were involved in a trip and workshop for the preparation for the plan of management for Clybucca Historic Site. The local Biripi community has had hands-on involvement in the refurbishment of the Brimbin Nature Reserve day-use area in the Taree region, with the employment of two Aboriginal workers to help undertake the works. In the near future a Biripi Elders committee is being formed to advise on Aboriginal cultural heritage issues in the area. 73 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Kosciusko Huts Association celebrates 30 years Increasing community The 500 members of the Kosciusko Huts Association are involvement in conservation dedicated to preserving and conserving the huts of the high country in Kosciuszko National Park. The association was Performance target 2000-2003 founded 30 years ago and has approximately 500 members. • Increase in the proportion of plans of management which It works closely with the NPWS to conserve the approximately incorporate community involvement in plan implementation 100 huts and homesteads scattered across the park. During the 2000-2001 summer season, annual maintenance was Performance result 2000-2001 undertaken on a number of huts including the Schlink Hilton, The number of plans of management which incorporate Mawson’s, White’s River, Horse Camp, Disappointment Spur, community involvement in their implementation increased Kidman’s, Burrungubugge, Boltons, Old Geehi and Major throughout the past year, as shown in the graph below. Clews’s Hut by KHA affiliated groups, with assistance provided by the NPWS. NPWS staff also attended the 140 association’s annual general meeting in May. To celebrate the 120 30th anniversary, NPWS staff took members on a walk in the Pilot Wilderness area. 100

Acknowledging volunteers 80 NPWS greatly appreciates its conservation volunteers. During 60 the year various functions were held by the NPWS throughout 40 the state, to acknowledge the volunteers’ work. In the mid North Coast area for example, over 500 volunteers are 20 involved in a range of projects and programs. To acknowledge 0 their contribution to conservation, a special day of activities Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 was held for them. A thank you luncheon was also held for volunteers from the Kilcare Wagstaff Trust who help in the Future directions conservation of by providing visitor The NPWS continues to encourage increased involvement of education and information, and bush regeneration. and support for volunteer groups in conservation activities both on and off park. L Pacey

A volunteer warden with an NPWS coordinator at Tuross sandspit in Eurobodalla National Park. 74 Conservation facilitation

Enhancing people’s enjoyment of NPWS NPWS parks A key objective for the NPWS is to enhance people’s enjoyment of the park system in New South Wales. Sydney 2000 Olympics The NPWS had significant involvement in the Sydney 2000 Olympics. As well as providing venues on NPWS estate for many Olympic events, the NPWS also provided information to assist with the smooth running of events such as sailing on Sydney Harbour. Considerable interest in national parks was shown by visitors to Sydney and the NPWS responded to this interest with a number of special publications and events. Olympic mountain bike and equestrian, and Paralympic equestrian events were held in the Western Sydney Regional Park. Up to 60,000 spectators attended on the busiest days. The park was staffed by a team of 12 NPWS employees and Information stations were established at key spots in Sydney Harbour National Park during volunteers to assist with crowd control, management, safety the Olympics and Paralympics, involving NPWS staff from around the state. and risk management, and promotion of the NPWS. Tree planting activities were organised and information During the sailing competitions information stations were packs distributed over the two-week period. established at key spectator points within Sydney Harbour National Park, and over 5,000 public inquiries were fielded. The NPWS hosted a number of other Olympic and Paralympic NPWS support for these events was well received by the activities including torch relays, the Olympic Arts Festival, public and gained high praise from the International Sailing road cycle training and sailing competitions. Many of the parks Federation and SOCOG Sailing. involved experienced a significant level of visitation during the Games period, especially Sydney Harbour National Park and Special publications and events during the games period Western Sydney Regional Park. The on-ground operation in included: Sydney Harbour National Park during the Olympic and • an Olympics issue of the popular Visitor Guide, covering Paralympic sailing events and the Olympic Closing Ceremony parks within a day’s drive of Sydney fireworks involved 200 NPWS staff from around the state as • a revised edition of the touring map Sydney: city of well as 21 volunteer university students and 15 guest rangers national parks from , the , Victoria, • an information kit for customer service staff across the state Queensland and South Australia. Volunteers from ORRCA also • a revised Access for All publication for people with assisted NPWS staff in monitoring marine mammal activity. disabilities, covering parks and reserves around Sydney NPWS

Spectators in Sydney Harbour National Park watch the Olympic sailing. Large numbers of visitors used vantage points in the park to view Olympic and Paralympic events. 75 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• upgraded information on the NPWS website Supporting community • media and VIP information kits, including videos about conservation activities national parks and reserves across the state • a limited edition souvenir pin for Sydney: city of national The NPWS seeks to provide practical guidance and support for parks, available from the National Parks Centre community conservation activities. • participation in the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Olympics Arts Festival event State of the Waratah: the floral emblem in Information services legend, art and industry • opening of the relocated National Parks Centre in Aboriginal heritage education kit The Rocks, Sydney, to provide an easy access point for An education kit was developed to assist in the teaching of Olympic visitors introductory archaeology and Aboriginal cultural heritage • advice to Lesotho Paralympics team, with Tourism NSW management to community groups, Aboriginal communities and the University of Technology, Sydney and educational institutions.

Visitor and market research Threatened species and biodiversity In the winter of 2000 the Cooperative Research Centre for In a partnership project with the National Parks Association of Sustainable Tourism completed the field work component of a NSW, the second edition of the Community Biodiversity major program to assess several visitor indicators such as Survey Manual was produced in consultation with a reference visitor motivation and satisfaction in several national parks in group from local government and Landcare to update technical the Northern Region. A variety of parks were surveyed and a information and enhance user-friendliness. The resource total of 1,615 visitors interviewed and 618 mail-back includes a manual, CD-ROM and website access for responses received. The survey revealed that 97 per cent of community groups and individuals. The Minister for the visitors were either satisfied or very satisfied with their Environment launched the manual on International national park visitation experience. In 2001-2002 the same Biodiversity Day May 2000. The launch was followed by an survey methodology will be trialled in Mungo and Barrington introductory seminar with chapter authors introducing the Tops national parks. manual. In 2001-2002 training and support will be undertaken to introduce and implement the manual, with input from local The University of Western Sydney and the South Coast Region government and Landcare groups, conservation partners and of the NPWS collaborated on a number of nature-based NPWS staff. tourism research projects, undertaken by staff and students. The research was undertaken primarily at the Minnamurra A report on threatened species recovery actions undertaken Rainforest Centre in but also at a over the last five years was prepared and published under the range of other NPWS visitor destinations on the coast and banner Threatened Species Recovery Planning in Action. highlands south of Sydney. Topics included A Strategic This report detailed the wide range of initiatives underway Approach to Interpretation, Improving the Contribution of to protect and recover a number of species and ecological Protected Areas to Quality of Life in Rural and Regional communities, as well as actions in addressing key threatening Communities, A Tourism Monitoring System, Impact of processes. Visitation on Water Quality, Ethnic Visitation to National Parks The Saving our Species Program was further developed during and Analysis of the Current Park Fees System. Several 2000 to encourage partnerships with local government. The associated workshops were held and papers published. program provides guidance to regions on establishing education and involvement projects for recovering threatened Enhancing people’s enjoyment of NPWS parks species and encouraging local initiatives. Under this program, 12 local projects were undertaken, including discovery trails, Performance target 2000-2003 field days, threatened plant guides, interpretive displays and species education programs. The next phase of the program in • Increase in the level of satisfaction of park users 2001-2002 will focus on education and community involvement actions in recovery plans and support the Performance result 2000-2001 implementation of those actions. A standardised visitor survey questionnaire is being trialled in parks. When finalised, the questionnaire will be used across Dealing with kangaroos the park system to measure park user satisfaction. Over the past three years there have been many documented attacks by kangaroos within the South Grafton community. Future directions To address the issue the NPWS conducted a community forum Over the coming year the NPWS will focus on maintaining where community members discussed the issue with several and improving the quality of visitor facilities and services, and speakers. From this forum the South Grafton Kangaroo improve the provision of information and interpretation of Advisory Committee was established to pursue the issue and park values. minimise risks to the local community. To date a brochure has 76 Conservation facilitation L Wren/NPWS

Erecting portable yards for capturing wild horses in the alpine area of Kosciuszko. The management of wild horses in the area is an ongoing cooperative effort between NPWS and various groups including local horse riders.

been developed, a local schools education campaign is from the Information Unit Manager, Cultural Heritage underway, local landholders have been given interim tools to Division, NPWS Hurstville, on (02) 9585 6444. mitigate risk and an interim report prepared. The committee Redevelopment of this system to improve data management recently agreed to prepare a management plan to address the and access will commence in 2001-2002. issue in the long-term . Terms of reference and sponsors are currently under negotiation. Support for community initiatives During the year the NPWS supported and assisted various Register of Aboriginal and historic community groups and organisations in seeking funding from heritage sites bodies such as Coastcare, Environmental Trust, Green Corps The NPWS maintains a register of known Aboriginal sites in and the Natural Heritage Trust. Groups supported through such New South Wales, which details the type and location of sites, proposals included Friends of Cudgen Nature Reserve, Friends associated reports and images. Access to the register is of the Koala, Ridgewood Road Landcare Group, Broadwater available to Aboriginal groups, researchers and the public, Dunecare Group, Brunswick Heads Dunecare Group, although due to the sensitivity of some information, some Bundjalung Dunecare Group and Environmental Training & restrictions apply. Employment (Northern Rivers) Inc. The register has been redeveloped to improve accessibility for The NPWS supported NSW TAFE Bushland Regeneration Aboriginal communities and to improve the type and quality of students by providing resource information in the form of service provided to clients. The new Aboriginal Heritage guest lectures, handouts and brochures, and sites for Information System became operational in 2001. undertaking practical weed control and gaining knowledge The NPWS also maintains a register about known historic from observation of NPWS regeneration projects. Students heritage sites on NPWS land, that details the type and location spent 50 hours in the area. of historic places, reports and other archival material. Access to the register is available to researchers and interested members of the public. Information on the register is available 77 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Conservation partnerships Swamp area, which includes Ballina Nature Reserve. As a Conservation outcomes are achieved through the active result of the meeting a management committee formed to engagement of the community in commitment of land and coordinate a cooperative control program for feral pigs within effort to sustain and enhance natural and cultural heritage the local area. Feral pigs were trapped at Ballina Nature values in the New South Wales landscape. Conservation Reserve and . partners include private landowners, leaseholders, public land Wildlife refuges management agencies and local government who have voluntary conservation agreements, wildlife refuges, Wildlife refuges are the oldest continuing off-park Aboriginal places and Ramsar wetland agreements. conservation scheme in the state, having been established Government and non-government organisations engaged in under the Fauna Protection Act 1948 and continuing in the conservation and members of the community who support National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. conservation through their voluntary efforts are key groups In 2000-2001 a review of wildlife refuges commenced with in this initiative. confirmation of their status across the state. The status of An overarching coordination framework has been developed to current confirmed wildlife refuges is as follows: facilitate a range of volunteer initiatives, capacity building Location No. of WR properties Area in hectares opportunities, provision of advice and assistance, and representation on a range of committees and councils. Central 66 28,554 Linkages have been made across project areas of urban Northern 111 57,889 wildlife, property management planning and threatened Southern 179 693,720 species recovery. Western 232 1,526,325 Totals 588 2,306,488 Cooperative management of Snowy Mountains wild horses The status of a further 26 refuges is currently being The experience of the Snowy Mountains horse riders has determined. proved invaluable in trying to find solutions to the problem of A database of wildife refuge owners has been updated and managing wild horses in the alpine area of Kosciuszko. In late reformatted to enable mapping and identification of high 2000 the NPWS held discussions with stakeholders in an priority areas and gaps where conservation partnerships are attempt to begin managing the problem of wild horses in the needed. The confirmation of key data has revealed that wildlife sensitive alpine area of Kosciuszko. A steering committee was refuges represent a significant contribution to the total land formed, with representatives from the park’s advisory area of the state committed for conservation. committee, tourism, conservation groups, scientists, a veterinarian, local horse riders and NPWS staff. In 2001-2002 further work will be undertaken to identify unknown refuge owners, and the conservation values and A public workshop was held at Jindabyne in January 2001 and quality of wildlife refuges will be assessed with landowners as an information session at Queanbeyan in February. Both part of the Joint Assistance Program. Property management forums were very useful in identifying the issues that people planning and the biodiversity module of the Farming for the saw as important in the development of a management plan. Future program will be used to assist landowners in their By June 2001 the steering committee had developed objectives management planning. for the draft plan and had also agreed unanimously to undertake a trial removal of horses from the alpine area. Joint Assistance Program The trial involved using a salt block to attract horses to a set of The Wildlife Refuge Community Assistance Program is a portable yards. Once captured in the yards, the horses would partnership between Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA, be led out to road access and be removed from the park. formerly ATCV) and the NPWS. The major aim of the The trial involved park staff, volunteer horse riders from the program is to assist in the maintenance and enhancement of Jindabyne area and a veterinarian from the Bombala Rural private land that had been set aside for conservation under a Lands Protection Board. Although the trial was halted because wildlife refuge or voluntary conservation agreement (VCA). snow made conditions unsuitable for horse riders, it will Coordinated and supervised teams of community volunteers resume in the spring. The efforts of the volunteers were crucial complete practical conservation projects in partnership with to the partial success of the trial and the approach of a landholders that plan the project in accordance with their community-driven plan has so far been quite successful in management guidelines. These projects sustain and enhance developing positive relations with these stakeholders. biodiversity and protect cultural heritage in conservation areas Cooperative control of feral pigs on these private properties. A public meeting was held at Ballina for stakeholders interested in the management of feral pigs in the Newrybar 78 Conservation facilitation

During 2000-2001 CVA obtained an Environmental Trust Team Details Properties Project Volunteer grant to undertake the program. The program has been an Days Days outstanding success due to the enthusiasm of the landholders, Volunteer teams (8 per team) 22 120 960 the volunteers that worked on both wildlife refuges and VCAs, Green Corps minor projects 2 10 100 and the strong partnership between CVA and the NPWS. Schools students on site The Joint Assistance Program has also accelerated the (15 per group) 2 3 45 checking of wildlife refuge records. Tertiary students for work experience Under the program: (2 per group) 4 6 12 • NPWS rangers from the local region attended whilst the Total 30 139 1,117 volunteer teams were on site In 2001-2002 the Joint Assistance Program will continue, • three schools and up to six tertiary students attended with a further 26 weeks of support to private landholders with projects to learn about practical conservation as part of their formal conservation commitments. curriculum As at 30 June 2001, 101 voluntary conservation agreements • members of the local community attended property had been signed, with an estimated 192 conservation partners. inspections • contact information for all properties in the program was Landcare Ibis Field Day updated • a site report was conducted on most properties which The NPWS was a member of the organising committee for the improved knowledge of the conservation values and quality pilot of a new initiative called the Landcare Ibis Field Day, of vegetation and habitat on the property by the team as well in partnership with the Royal Agricultural Society, as the landholders NSW Agriculture and the Department of Land and Water • on two properties where accommodation was unavailable for Conservation. The aim of the field day is to showcase the volunteer teams, Green Corps teams undertook minor efforts and achievements of property owners who have won a projects, which added to the program Landcare environmental award on their property for environmental management and native flora and fauna S Cohen/NPWS

NPWS Director-General Brian Gilligan and two members of Conservation Volunteers Australia at a site set aside as a wildlife refuge under the Joint Assistance Program. 79 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

conservation. This encourages other landcarers to learn from requirements. The policy has been further developed to address their experiences. use of volunteers in emergency management, and will be The field day was held on 26 October 2000 at Jelgowry, the finalised in 2001-2002. property of Rob and Pip Russell at Bega. The Russells won the In 2001-2002 a review of local volunteer programs in regions Primary Producer category of the Landcare Awards in 1999 for and other areas of the agency will be undertaken with a view demonstrating successful wetland, river, tree and farm forestry to coordinating activities across the state, enhancing advice management as well as gully erosion remediation on their and assistance to staff and supporting training and professional dairy property. The day comprised a program of property networking. tours, talks, demonstrations and displays of information. The NPWS invited conservation partners to attend the field National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council day and 70 people attended, including farmers, landcarers and and advisory committees state government agency staff. National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council proceedings were supported by the NPWS in convening four council Land for Wildlife Scheme meetings during 2000-2001, and a number of sub committee During 2000-2001 a third party agreement for Land for meetings took place which required the preparation of agenda, Wildlife was finalised with all states, allowing for community business papers, arranging presentations, field visits, and other partner approaches and further refinement of the administration and finance. program when the arrangement is renewed. In 2000-2001 20 newly constituted advisory committees across the state commenced their activities. Information packages for Urban Wildlife Program committees and NPWS staff facilitating committees were The NPWS has been funded through the NSW Environmental prepared and provided on a statewide basis. A workshop with Trust to research and develop a program which raises NPWS facilitators was held to discuss a range of matters awareness of the simple steps people can take in their own relating to committee functioning. backyards and local community to contribute to the protection and conservation of native wildlife in urban environments. The annual meeting of committee chairs was conducted in December 2000, with very positive evaluations and During 2000-2001 information has been gathered about recommendations. Drafting of a memorandum of community knowledge, attitudes and involvement in relation to understanding, action plan, and the formation of an annual protection and conservation of urban wildlife, as a basis for the meeting steering committee to organise the 2001 conference development of innovative projects to be undertaken with local were key outcomes of the process. government, non-government organisations, industry organisations and other agencies. A range of projects has been The NPWS was active in whole-of-government initiatives with identified with project partners for design and implementation the Premier’s Department and the Department for Women in 2001-2002, as well as development of a range of web-based regarding gender equity in representation on boards and information products and services to support the program. committees.

Volunteers Community consultation and facilitation The Campus Conservation Program was undertaken during During 2000-2001 a number of key consultation processes 2000-2001 in partnership with Conservation Volunteers were conducted by the NPWS to facilitate community Australia. The aim of the program is to encourage the involvement in decision-making and to seek input into the involvement of tertiary students in conservation and build management of issues. These included processes for the support for conservation of natural and cultural heritage preparation of plans of management, fire management plans, among future leaders. The program involved 60 tertiary neighbour workshops, and addressing key issues of interest to students from 8 universities and technical institutions in the community. Workshop facilitator training was conducted volunteer projects in national parks across the state. As at on a statewide basis with a further 20 staff trained in 30 June, there were 1,820 participants in this program. facilitation techniques and methods, bringing the total number of staff trained under this program to 120 statewide. The NPWS supported the NSW Premier’s Department Strategic Projects Division in the development of whole-of- Representation on committees and councils government approaches to volunteers and volunteer The NPWS was represented on a number of committees and management in the lead up to International Year of councils to provide advice and assistance in community Volunteers in 2001. involvement and education, including: A revised draft volunteer policy and guidelines has been • Conservation Volunteers Australia, Green Corps project trialled by a number of regions during 2000-2001, including at evaluation panel the Sydney 2000 Olympics, with amendments made to some • NSW Landcare Council areas to reflect the results of the trial. The policy has been • Environmental Trust, Restoration and Rehabilitation updated to address privacy matters and child protection Technical Committee 80 Conservation facilitation

• Environmental Trust, Environmental Education Technical More than 200 people, including NPWS staff and their Committee families, spent 30 minutes one Saturday morning in April 2001

• Coastal Council of NSW, Education and Communication on the lookout for dolphins in Port Stephens. Armed with a M Cufer/NPWS Committee map, statistics sheets, identification poster, their cameras and • Roadside Environment Committee their family’s eyes, they counted and identified any dolphins which swam by. The census aimed to collect a snapshot of the Cooperative research agreement with Southern dolphins and in what parts of the port they can be found. Cross University The findings of the census will assist in the DREAM program. In 1989 the NPWS established a successful cooperative The census counted 112 dolphins in the Port Stephens area. research program with Southern Cross University. Since that time students from the School of Resource Science and Management have been involved in group and individual research projects. These projects are proposed and supported Enhancing people’s enjoyment of NPWS parks by NPWS staff and include second and third year undergraduate projects and post graduate research. Up to Performance targets 2000-2003 thirty projects are successfully completed each year, with • Increase in the number of joint grant applications with topics ranging from surveys for endangered species, community groups comprehensive fauna and flora surveys of the region’s • Increased community participation in conservation programs reserves, targeted flora surveys of specific habitats to draft reserve fire plans and draft plans of management. Performance results 2000-2001 This cooperative program provides an opportunity for students The number of successful joint grant applications with to work with NPWS staff and for them to contribute to the community groups during the past year are shown in the understanding and management of the reserves within the graph below. region. NPWS staff can also maintain their scientific skills through participation in the program. 30

Bushcare program 25 The Bushcare program is funded by the Commonwealth Natural Heritage Trust. Its purpose is to reverse the long-term 20 decline in the quality and extent of Australia’s native vegetation cover. In New South Wales, the NPWS and the 15 Department of Land and Water Conservation are joint program managers, with the NPWS having the day-to-day responsibility 10 for the program. Bushcare is active in both rural and urban areas, on privately owned and community property, and on 5 land used for production, conservation and recreation. Projects funded by Bushcare include both large-scale regional or small- 0 scale community projects, most of which are largely carried Jun 00 Sep 00 Dec 00 Mar 01 Jun 01 out by community groups. Currently there are 90 new and 180 continuing projects funded through the program. Community participation in conservation programs is demonstrated by the number of: DREAM (Dolphin research, education and management) • voluntary conservation agreements – 101 signed as at 30 June 2001 DREAM is a joint research and management project between • wildlife refuge programs – 580 active properties the Port Stephens Dolphin Watch Association, the Macquarie • Bushcare programs – 180 continuing and 90 new projects University and the NPWS. In its third year, the project has were being funded as at 30 June 2001 determined that approximately 120-150 dolphins live in Port Stephens. Whilst dolphins may appear to actively seek out Future directions humans, we also have to determine whether these interactions impact on the animals. Against this backdrop there also exists The NPWS will continue to work with representatives of a level of concern within the community, dolphin watch community conservation programs to identify their guidance operators and the NPWS over the impact of increasing and support needs and how these might best be met. We will recreational and commercial use of the waterways in Port facilitate and improve community access to conservation- Stephens and its impact on the environment. The findings will related information. We will also cooperate with other be used to assist in developing a plan of management. government agencies to develop, promote and support programs for ecologically sustainable land management. 81 Capacity building 5

Historic woolshed, The development and retention of committed and skilled staff, and the development and implementation of policies, systems and procedures to ensure that the NPWS is an effective organisation focused on the achievement of conservation outcomes for New South Wales. 82 5Capacity building

Attracting, developing and Aboriginal heritage training retaining a skilled workforce NPWS staff are having more contact with aspects of Aboriginal cultural heritage during day-to-day park The NPWS is implementing a range of workforce management management, particularly in the coastal parks. To assist them strategies to ensure that it attracts, develops and retains a in this role, workshops on managing Aboriginal cultural skilled workforce aligned to corporate values and directions. heritage were conducted for NPWS staff and Aboriginal As part of this process, a number of workforce management communities on the North Coast. policies were reviewed and released during the year, including The aims of the course, entitled Introduction to Aboriginal those relating to: Cultural Heritage Management, were to: • leave without pay • develop an awareness of Aboriginal cultural heritage and its • temporary staffing decisions and management policy management by the NPWS in conjunction with local • contracting for services Aboriginal custodians • recruitment and selection • understand the functions of NPWS staff in managing • higher duties allowance Aboriginal cultural heritage • study leave • provide an opportunity for local Aboriginal people to present The NPWS also began the process of improving its capacity and discuss their roles in contemporary cultural heritage to predict and plan for human resource requirements and management deployments with the appointment of a Workforce Planning • provide information on protocols for consultation with Manager in November 2000. Recruitment approvals are now Aboriginal communities in relation to cultural heritage linked to staffing strategies based on corporate priorities and management fiscal efficiencies. During the year the NPWS conducted a • provide an overview of basic site identification and post-restructure audit to reconcile people against new positions recording techniques and structures to ensure accuracy in workforce and cost The workshops were well received by all participants and more reporting for 2001-2002. are planned for the coming year. In addition Aurion, the NPWS Human Resource Information Training was also provided to staff in the north of the state in System, was upgraded in the reporting year to improve user the identification of Aboriginal skeletal remains. Participants functionality and introduce a number of new reporting tools. gained an understanding of the correct procedures to follow Aurion training procedures were reviewed, and training when human skeletal remains are discovered, the culturally provided to a large number of system users. Over the next year appropriate manner of handling and dealing with Aboriginal training will be continued to further expand read-only access skeletal remains, factors for identifying human and non-human to all NPWS managers. The development of procedures to skeletal remains, and identification of the main features enable all staff to access their employment records on-line is common to pre-contact Aboriginal skeletal remains. The value continuing. of this training was demonstrated when one of the participants Learning and development was later called upon by the Kempsey Police and correctly identified human remains. During the year new policies and procedures were put in place to better plan and manage learning and development activities, Performance management including policies covering study leave and the payment of Performance management continues to be a feature of the tertiary course fees. A computer based system for managing NPWS’ approach to improving people management and training information and records was also introduced. organisational outcomes. A corporate performance A range of skill development programs were conducted during management system was established in 1999-2000, with the the year. The induction program was reviewed and rewritten, first full year of data collected during 2000-2001. In addition, and conducted in a number of areas. all major corporate initiatives are required to incorporate a The NPWS continues to sponsor staff participation in public performance monitoring and reporting regime. sector management development programs such as the Public With respect to individual performance, all Executive and Sector Management Course and the Executive Development senior managers in the NPWS have performance agreements in Program. In 2000-2001 four staff participated in these place, and performance reviews are conducted regularly. programs. An audit examining the extent to which these performance The NPWS also continued its involvement with the agreements comply with Premier’s Department guidelines was development of national competencies and training packages commenced in late May and is due to be completed in August. for the land management and conservation industry. The performance management system for other NPWS staff is currently being reviewed. 83 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Workforce diversity and EEO Award reviews Under the provisions of section 19 of the Industrial Relations Aboriginal employment and training strategy Act, 1996 (NSW), all enterprise awards covering NPWS staff The NPWS continued the development of a new Aboriginal have now been reviewed. During this process three awards employment and training strategy during the year. Cross- were consolidated into a single award and several were agency approaches to training are being examined as part of abolished as they were no longer required. The NPWS this strategy. The NPWS also continued to support the continued to meet with union representatives to negotiate Aboriginal trainee ranger program, with the two current revisions to current award conditions of employment. participants expected to complete their traineeships in 2002. Productivity savings Spokeswomen’s program A memorandum of understanding has been signed by the Steps were taken this year to revitalise the NPWS major unions covering NPWS staff. The memorandum gives Spokeswomen’s program. The program was restructured in employees an additional 6 per cent in pay increases funded keeping with the new NPWS structure introduced last year, through the identification and implementation of workplace and new Spokeswomen were appointed in December 1999. improvements resulting in productivity savings. Discussions The NPWS now has 10 Spokeswomen, including an have been held with the unions to identify areas that can Aboriginal Spokeswoman representing Aboriginal women contribute towards these savings, and examination of issues employed throughout the organisation. They are assisted in relating to their implementation has commenced. carrying out their role by a former Spokeswoman who acts as a resource officer, and by the NPWS Women’s Liaison Officer. Occupational health and safety Since their election, the Spokeswomen have: A strategic risk management approach is being incorporated into all NPWS operations across New South Wales, with • participated in formal Spokeswomen’s training occupational health and safety (OHS) being a major • conducted training and information sessions, including staff component of the NPWS risk management strategic plan. induction, women’s self defence training, lunchtime Detailed information on this plan is provided in the latter parts information sessions, and an information day for women in of this section. western New South Wales conducted jointly with other government agencies A comprehensive review of the NPWS OHS management • regularly distributed information relevant to female staff in system continued, with significant progress being made. the NPWS Key stages completed include: • arranged for publications relevant to women’s issues to be • the formation of a statewide advisory group made available in the library • a review of NPWS policy and accountability statements • prepared a strategic plan for 2001-2004 • further gap analysis of the current OHS management system • prioritisation of key improvement strategies Employment and industrial relations • training for the Executive and the Senior Management Team Industrial disputes An audit program based on components of the revised OHS An unfair contract matter reported in last year’s annual report management system is planned for the next financial year. is still proceeding. There have been several mentions before the Industrial Relations Commission and at this stage it is anticipated that the matter will not be heard until the resolution of an inquiry being conducted by the Independent Commission J Winter/NPWS Against Corruption. Three disputes were notified to the Industrial Commission during 2000-2001. One dispute relates to a request for transfer, the second relates to continuity of employment for the purposes of maternity leave and the third is an unfair dismissal matter. The continuity of employment matter was settled through conciliation and the remaining two disputes are ongoing.

NPWS Graphic Designer Peter Sherratt hard at work over a light table. 84 Capacity building

Training has been undertaken in the areas of risk assessment, Working as a cohesive and OHS risk management for line managers and supervisors and informed team accident investigation. Various specific operational safety training courses such as industrial rope access for working at Effective teamwork helps to build an organisational culture heights were also provided. characterised by shared values, goals and standards. Importantly, it also helps to ensure consistency in the provision A program of site risk assessments to determine risk of advice and services to the community, and to improve the management priorities and identify control measures efficiency and effectiveness of NPWS operations. continued, with particular attention to field operations, depots and visitor areas such as lookouts and walking tracks. Throughout 2000 the NPWS underwent significant restructuring. In 2000-2001 a transition management program The NPWS continued to perform better than the benchmark aimed at renewing organisational culture was undertaken. This for workplace injury costs this financial year. A decreasing program, which initially targeted senior and middle managers, trend in injury frequency also continued. focused on leadership styles and values, team strategies, and The NPWS workplace injury management program was the contribution these make to improving organisational further refined during the year, to enhance the focus on early performance. Almost 200 staff participated in the program. intervention to enable injured staff to return to meaningful The NPWS also introduced a range of measures to improve work as soon as safely possible. internal linkages and communications and facilitate teamwork across the organisation.

Attracting, developing and Working as a cohesive and informed team retaining a skilled workforce Performance targets Performance targets • Organisational surveys demonstrate continual improvement • Workforce profile data is favourably benchmarked against in the adoption of corporate values and operating principles other organisations • Improved customer feedback on the consistency of NPWS • 80 per cent of staff have performance management and provision of advice and services development plans • 80 per cent of participants in training programs are doing so Performance results 2000-2001 as part of their performance management and development • Work in progressing the transition management program has plans provided qualitative data on management perception of • Injuries per 100 employees are decreased by 5 per cent by issues related to the consolidation of the restructure June 2003 • A cultural climate tool was piloted with two regions as part of a preliminary process to address change management and Performance results 2000-2001 team issues • Health and safety related data for staff was reported on in • Throughout 2000-2001 a number of mechanisms were in Chapter 4: Conservation Management – managing our built place to receive and respond to customer feedback. These assets included email, access through the NPWS website, formal • An audit of performance management systems for the letters, and face-to-face feedback Executive and senior managers was commenced in late May 2001. The audit is due to be completed in July 2001. Future directions Findings of this audit will be reported in the Annual Report The NPWS will continue to improve internal communication 2001-2002. and decision-making systems and to foster internal consultation and collaboration on operational and strategic Future directions matters, to ensure consistency, efficiency and effectiveness in The NPWS will continue to develop, enhance and review its NPWS operations. workforce management policies, systems and procedures to Work will be undertaken in 2001-2002 to develop a central attract, develop and retain a skilled workforce aligned to reporting system to record details of customer feedback, corporate values and directions and to provide a safe and including the number and nature of complaints received, and, healthy work environment. where applicable, the action taken to address the complaints. 85 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

A new NPWS corporate credit card policy based on best practice policies issued by the NSW Treasury was approved by

G Baker/NPWS the Executive for immediate implementation. The policy takes into account the operational needs of the organisation as well as its strong commitment to good corporate governance. Following the successful centralisation of cheque processing at its Hurstville office, the NPWS has commenced a project to increase the take-up of electronic funds transfer (EFT) payment mode by service providers. This will reduce costs, facilitate the timely payment of accounts, especially in remote locations, and improve client relationships. Risk management Working as a team on maintenance at the Cape Byron Lighthouse Complex. During the year a risk management strategic plan was developed to identify priority risk areas for attention, action Improved efficiency and support and review. Based on the Standards Australia/New Zealand for service delivery joint standard Risk Management AS/NZS 4360:1999, the plan provides the foundation for the comprehensive integration of The NPWS is progressively reviewing and refining its policies, risk management into NPWS policies, processes and activities. systems and procedures to improve organisational efficiency It covers risk management methodology, an action plan for the and to ensure efficient and effective support for the delivery of development of an integrated approach, the corporate NPWS services. processes to be applied, and reporting and review measures. The action plan: Financial management • introduces an integrated risk management system During 2000-2001 the NPWS implemented a new budgetary conforming to AS/NZS 4360:1999 and financial management framework aimed at: • establishes and maintain a corporate risk profiling system • assigning clear accountabilities for the management of • establishes a process for monitoring and communicating Directorates’ allocations and the corporate budget exposures and treatments • more rigorous accounting for and monitoring of in-house • implements prioritised remedial actions across the whole business activities organisation • improved transparency and equity in revenue sharing Progress over the year included: • enhanced budgetary reporting to the Executive • formation of the corporate risk review team • more stringent control and monitoring of specific purpose • completion of risk reviews throughout the NPWS grants received from external agencies, including a more • development of trial risk watchlists commercial approach in accepting ‘deficit funded’ grants • steps taken to establish competency based training in risk A major review of debt management throughout the management organisation saw the implementation of a stricter approach to Related risk management initiatives undertaken throughout the debt collection and management. A significant number of long year were: overdue debts were resolved, resulting in outstanding debts over 90 days dropping to 27 per cent of total debtors at • development of the Fire Management Manual 2001 which 30 June 2001 (compared to 73 per cent at 30 November 2000). strongly reflects the NPWS risk management approach Debt management training was provided for the first time to a • development of interim guidelines for roping sports, broad cross-section of key staff. The NPWS also contracted the which incorporates a strong risk mitigation theme services of a commercial debt recovery agency for an initial • commencement of a study of treefall risk in campsites, trial period of six months. with an initial focus on Myall Lakes National Park • development of a NPWS fraud and corruption prevention As part of the ongoing improvement of its financial plan, due for completion in 2001-2002 management systems, the NPWS migrated to a newer version • incorporation of leading edge security and risk minimisation of SAP (an electronic business package) from 15 May 2001. approaches in the upgrading of NPWS information The upgraded version will enable the agency not only to take technology advantage of the increased functionality of its software investment but also to introduce other modules of SAP such as plant maintenance to control its asset management activities. 86 Capacity building

Significant progress was made during the year in the Information management and development of NPWS risk management capability, building technology on the expertise already existing within the NPWS. Over the The NPWS information management and technology strategic coming year the corporate risk review system will be extended plan for 2000-2003 was endorsed by the Department of across all program areas and to all projects, and will Information Technology and Management (DITM) in August incorporate improvements to the information base, including 2000. The steering committee responsible for its development the communication of serious and near miss incidents. is supervising its implementation. Six business cases were Insurance submitted to the DITM for funding, of which two key projects, the wide area network (WAN) expansion project and the IT NPWS insurance cover is effected with the Treasury Managed infrastructure replacement program, were successful in Fund managed by the GIO, apart from cover for leased motor securing funding on an ongoing basis. vehicles, which is with the Macquarie Bank. Areas of risk and relevant insurance premiums Connectivity projects 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 A new WAN contract was negotiated with Telstra to replace $’000 $’000 $’000 the existing service. This contract will provide the NPWS with Workers Compensation 2,404 2,136 1,869 a new network infrastructure to supply improved bandwidth Property 932 923 709 and network management. Stage one of the project comprised Motor Vehicles, owned 436 429 341 the upgrade of the existing WAN connected sites to provide the Motor Vehicles, leased 633 718 890 capacity to support new applications such as the new Motor Vehicles, Total 1,069 1,147 1,231 messaging system and a corporate intranet. All but one of 37 Public Liability 1,189 1,409 1,822 sites had been connected to the Telstra network by the end of Fire 5,300 10,850 11,371 Miscellaneous 21 21 24 June 2001. Stage two, which will be completed in the coming year, will provide WAN connectivity down to all area level Total 10,915 16,486 17,026 offices and improved dial-up access for all other NPWS locations. Workers’ compensation claims Workers’ compensation claims fell 3 per cent on the previous The rollout of the 32-bit project was completed successfully. year compared with a 6 per cent rise for all government Lotus Notes was selected to replace the existing, obsolete agencies in the scheme, even though the NPWS has faced a messaging program, and implementation commenced. continued growth in field staff activities with further additions Implementation and training will continue in stages over the to NPWS estate. This reflects the continuing commitment of next 12 months. the NPWS to risk management strategies in key areas of work The selection of the technological platform and the acquisition related exposure, with particular emphasis on manual of content management software for a corporate intranet was handling. completed. Documentation of the user requirements after Number of claims extensive user consultation was also completed. The project is 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 due to be finalised in the next financial year. NPWS 132 150 146 The upgrade of the existing hardware infrastructure to provide All government agencies 11,846 13,168 13,974 electronic access to corporate applications for NPWS staff Source: Treasury Managed Fund (TMF) report for quarter ended 30 June 2001. Figures provided are located in non-WAN sites and for some non-office locations reassessed and amended by TMF as necessary. are due to be completed in 2001-2002. Motor vehicle claims Aboriginal heritage information management Motor vehicle claims rose 2 per cent on the previous year, as system (AHIMS) did claims for all government agencies in the scheme. This result is pleasing given the continuing increase in vehicle The in-house development of the Aboriginal heritage coverage required by the expanding NPWS estate. information management system (AHIMS) has been completed. AHIMS will be available to all offices supported Number of claims by the WAN and will improve the NPWS’ ability to capture 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 and manage information relating to Aboriginal sites while NPWS 346 264 270 strictly controlling access to sensitive cultural information. All government agencies 6,964 6,038 6,164

Source: Treasury Managed Fund (TMF) report for quarter ended 30 June 2001. Figures provided are Asset maintenance system reassessed and amended by TMF as necessary. Development of a WAN-based corporate asset maintenance system began during the year. An analysis of functional requirements was undertaken in consultation with users, followed by the selection of a contracting firm to configure SAP PM. At year end, the project was close to completion of 87 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• three financial management audits: – expenditure on over 40 projects funded by the Resource

P Coady/NPWS and Conservation Assessment Council (RACAC) – adequacy of controls for purchases of less than $100,000 – comprehensive financial risk assessment • four general management audits: – arrangements for controlling and managing attractive items worth less than $5,000 – adequacy of controls for the issue and use of corporate credit cards – existence of and compliance with policies and procedures regarding the use of unlicensed software – compliance with guidelines of the performance Aboriginal hand stencils in Mutawintji National Park. The now completed Aboriginal management and development system (PMDS) by the heritage information management system (AHIMS) allows NPWS to better manage sensitive Executive and Senior Managers (due for completion cultural information. August 2001) Implementation of recommendations arising from these audits the Business Blue Print sign off, in which NPWS requirements is being monitored by the Audit and Compliance Committee. are mapped to SAP functionality. This is the first stage of the configuration process. This new system will allow users to Conservation compliance audits record and report costed inspection and maintenance plans. Conservation compliance audits are a new initiative for the It will also enable the recording of information about incidents NPWS, intended in the long-term to provide assurance both involving NPWS assets. that the NPWS itself is complying with conservation standards Management systems in its management and activities, and that other people carrying out activities on NPWS-managed lands are also in In keeping with updated State Records Authority of NSW compliance with these standards. The first step in introducing legislation the NPWS is managing a number of projects, this form of audit was the development and trialling of an including the implementation of TRIM as the records audit methodology for the implementation of plans of management system (RMS). TRIM will replace the head office management for parks and reserves. In 2000-2001 trials were based CARMS system with a service-wide RMS solution. conducted on selected plans of management in western and Implementation of the system commenced in 2000-2001 and is northern New South Wales. Further trials will be undertaken in due for completion in the next financial year. the Sydney Basin and southern New South Wales during the The SAP R/3 upgrade was successfully completed and went first quarter of 2001-2002. These trials will lead to the live on 15 May 2001. The new version has more features and development of an audit checklist which can be used for self or is especially useful for implementation of the asset peer audit within the NPWS. maintenance system. Audit and compliance plan and charter The Aurion human resource management system (HRMS) was also upgraded, providing better functionality and improved An audit and compliance plan for 2001-2002 has been architecture of the application. developed and endorsed, and the Internal Audit Bureau (IAB) has been engaged to provide internal audit services in Corporate governance 2001-2002. An internal audit charter which details the The NPWS continued the work begun last year to strengthen responsibilities of the IAB and NPWS management and staff its corporate governance arrangements. One important aspect throughout the audit process was developed and endorsed. of this was the development of the risk management strategic Professional and ethical conduct plan which was addressed earlier in this report. The NPWS document Professional and ethical conduct: Audit and compliance program guidelines for staff, which incorporates the NPWS code of Implementation of the formal NPWS audit and compliance conduct, is provided to all new staff and is also on the NPWS program continued during the year under the oversight and website and share drive for reference. A review of this guidance of the Audit and Compliance Committee, which met document is planned for 2001-2002. quarterly. This program comprises three strands for audit: The document Guidelines For Dealing With Internal And financial management, general management and conservation External Investigations was revised in 2000-2001 to improve compliance. the guidance available to assist staff conducting or During the year seven audit assignments were undertaken, participating in an investigation. including: 88 Capacity building

During the year the NPWS was the subject of one complaint The main categories of personal information collected and lodged with the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity held by the NPWS relate to: Commission (HREOC), which was resolved through • NPWS personnel conciliation. • neighbours of NPWS-managed lands Two complaints were lodged with the Independent • annual pass holders Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). Allegations made • Aboriginal sites to the ICAC by a former NPWS officer regarding his • lessees employment and the termination of his employment are the • licensees subject of a public inquiry, which was still ongoing at 30 June • voluntary conversation agreements 2001. The other complaint to ICAC was referred in June 2001, • volunteers and an investigation has commenced. The outcomes of these • public submissions on NPWS policies and planning matters will be reported in next year’s annual report. instruments Two complaints were lodged during the year with the NSW Building on the privacy management plan developed during Ombudsman. The Ombudsman found both complaints to be the previous year and the outcomes of an audit of areas where without substance. In addition, a complaint previously lodged personal information was held, the NPWS began to address with the Anti-Discrimination Board was withdrawn during the areas of non-compliance with the information protection year, following provision by the NPWS of a substantial amount principles of the Act. of information. In many areas only changes to the forms in which personal Other matters subject to external or independent investigation information is collected were needed to achieve compliance. during the year, and reported elsewhere in this report were: In most cases these changes were made during the year. • the incident at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in June In other instances, a change in the procedures has been 2000 which resulted in the death of four NPWS officers and required to modify how staff handle personal information. the serious injury of three others One of the major activities of the year was to develop a set of • the aerial culling of feral horses in Guy Fawkes information brochures for both staff and the public to explain National Park what the new privacy legislation means for individuals and • the death of bats during a research project conducted in how personal information will be handled by the NPWS. Willi Willi Nature Reserve This information will also be placed on the NPWS website. • the death of penguins during a research project conducted Changes in procedures were implemented late in the year for on Montague Island the handling of submissions received as part of the public • the unauthorised clearing of substantial areas under consultation phase of developing and reviewing management Transgrid power lines within Kosciuszko and Brindabella plans and proposals. A defined policy for public submissions national parks and Bimberi Nature Reserve will ensure compliance with the information protection principles. Sponsorship policy A revised sponsorship policy was published during the year. The NPWS has a Privacy Contact Officer to deal with Although sponsorships are primarily directed through the matters relating to privacy and personal information. Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, there are often The role of this officer is to: local sponsorship opportunities offered to the NPWS. This new • coordinate implementation of the NPWS privacy policy provides guidance to staff on identifying, assessing and management plan managing these sponsorships. It seeks to help staff ensure that any agreement entered into is open and transparent, and does

not pose any risk of real or perceived conflict of interest for NPWS the NPWS.

Privacy and personal information protection The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 introduced a set of privacy standards and information protection principles that regulate the way NSW public sector agencies deal with personal information. The information protection principles became effective as of 1 July 2000 and enforceable from 1 July 2001. They cover the collection, storage, use and disclosure of personal information. As a public sector agency, the NPWS is bound by these information protection principles. Volunteers Day in the NPWS Mid North Coast Region. Privacy legislation now covers information collected by the NPWS relating to volunteers. 89 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• undertake ongoing reviews of the plan to ensure that any Improved organisational efficiency and new responsibilities, activities or ways of processing support for service delivery information in the NPWS are taken into account and incorporated as appropriate Performance report 2000-2001 • coordinate the internal review process for dealing with • Workforce management policies developed included those alleged breaches of the Act relating to higher duties allowance, learning and To date no applications to access or make amendments to development guidelines, study time leave and financial personal information have been received from individuals. assistance for study, cash handling, recruitment, utilisation and management of contractors, and chainsaw operation The Privacy Contact Officer is located at the Hurstville • Financial policies developed or revised included a financial office and can be contacted on (02) 9585 6460, or management and budget framework, and those relating to fax (02) 9585 6824. park use fees, cash management and corporate credit cards • The NPWS risk management strategic plan was released in Corporate performance reporting system April 2001 and trial risk assessments were completed for all In 2000-2001 a formal corporate performance reporting regions and divisions. A corporate risk review team was system was established, incorporating 24 performance targets formed and held its first quarterly meeting in June 2001. listed in the NPWS Corporate Plan 2000-2003. Quarterly • Work was commenced on the development of a new performance reports for each of these targets were provided to Service-wide records management system which comprises the Minister for the Environment and to members of the a new automated records software package, TRIM, and National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council. A copy of the revised records tools such as a thesaurus, standards and June 2001 report, incorporating data for the full year, was also guidelines, and a disposal schedule • There were ongoing upgrades of the NPWS website provided to members of regional advisory committees. including improvements to appearance and site navigation, Following a review of the corporate plan, 11 new performance increased park related information, more regular updating of targets (which replace a number of existing targets) were information on fires and park closures, and on line endorsed for inclusion in the system from 1 July 2001. purchasing through a secure site of all annual pass options The new targets which will apply to Conservation Planning • Implementation of the waste reduction and purchasing and Capacity Building are: policy and Government Energy Management Policy was progressed • plans of management developed to schedule • A corporate performance reporting system was established • NSW Biodiversity Strategy implemented to schedule with reports issued for September, December, March and • regional conservation plans prepared for priority areas June quarters within agreed timeframes • threatened species recovery plans and threat abatement plans Future directions developed to schedule The NPWS will continue to develop, review and refine its • regional cultural heritage strategies developed by June 2003 corporate systems to improve organisational efficiency and • workforce profile data is favourably benchmarked against support for service delivery. other organisations • 80 per cent of staff have performance management and development plans • 80 per cent of participants in training programs are doing Enhancing and managing so as part of their performance management and resources for conservation development plan The NPWS is undertaking a range of initiatives to increase the • injuries per 100 employees are decreased by 5 per cent by resources available to the agency for protecting conservation June 2003 values on NPWS managed lands and supporting conservation • organisational surveys demonstrate continual improvement outside those areas. These initiatives include improving the in the adoption of corporate values and operating principles cost effectiveness of NPWS operations, working with the • improved customer feedback on the consistency of NPWS Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife to improve the provision of advice and services effectiveness of fundraising programs and activities, and improving the organisation’s capacity to obtain funding from a range of sources. Grants and sponsorships The Australian Museum provided Cape Byron State Recreation Area with $2,000 for the Arakwal Aboriginal display. Funding from the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife has allowed the initiation of a rehabilitation program 90 Capacity building

for a significant site of the Duffys Forest endangered ecological community and the endangered plant Grevillea

caleyi. This has involved joint cooperation between the NPWS, L Broome/NPWS Warringah Council and the Rural Fire Services to carry out extensive weed control, site restoration and planning for an ecological burn. The NPWS Biodiversity Research Group and University of Wollongong were successful in obtaining a Commonwealth government grant for two PhD research projects to focus on the conservation management of threatened and common species of Persoonia in fire-prone habitats. Persoonia species studied are all killed by fire and are particularly sensitive to the impacts of high fire frequency. The mountain pygmy possum is the focus of one of the threatened wildlife projects Two Environment Protection Authority Stormwater Trust grants supported by the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife. were received for the rehabilitation of riparian zones within the resort areas of Kosciuszko National Park. The grant money has The Foundation is also spearheading fundraising for the also been used to fund a community relations program and a Dunphy Wilderness Fund (reported on in the chapter on waste reduction campaign in the resort areas. A consultative Conservation Planning), commencing with a direct mail appeal committee made up of representatives from the NPWS and and requests to the public for donations of suitable land. representatives from all the ski resorts in Kosciuszko National For further information on the foundation’s activities, write to Park was established to oversee the project. The campaign used GPO Box 2666, Sydney, 2001, or telephone (02) 9221 1949, radio, television, print media, posters, beer coasters and or e-mail [email protected]. banners. The campaign also involved a compliance program based on the Environment Protection Authority’s on the spot NSW Nature Conservation Trust fine system where fines range from $60 to $375. Cooma Young The NSW Nature Conservation Trust will be established Achievers were also involved in the campaign by supplying during the latter part of 2001. The trust will provide a means portable receptacles for cigarette butt disposal. of contributing to conservation at arm’s length from government, to attract landholders and donors who would Foundation for National Parks and prefer to deal with non-government organisations when Wildlife making philanthropic gestures. In May 2000 a group of non- The Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife (FNPW) raises government organisations including the World Wide Fund for funds to protect endangered wildlife, preserve national parks Nature and the NSW Farmers’ Association initially submitted a and conserve cultural heritage. In 2000-2001 bequests to the model bill for the establishment of a conservation trust. Foundation totalled $25,595. The Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Agriculture have supported the A new trust, the FNPW Gift Fund Trust was granted action of these organisations to establish the trust. The NPWS entry onto the Register of Environmental Organisations. has been actively involved in the development of the trust This enables the foundation to offer tax incentives for the and associated legislation which was passed by the NSW gifting of property, including land, for conservation purposes. government in the 2001 Budget Session of Parliament. Incentives under the Federal Government Philanthropy Program include tax deductibility for the market value of The trust’s primary goal of nature conservation will be met donations of property worth over $5,000, apportionment of the through a range of functions including negotiation of voluntary deduction over 5 years and capital gains tax exemption for conservation agreements under the National Parks and Wildlife testamentary gifts of property. Act, and delivering a proposed revolving fund (see below). The trust will be self-funding through donations and bequests. The Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife supported a Other such self-funded initiatives have been successful number of projects throughout the year. Some of these projects including the Australian Bush Heritage Fund in Tasmania include the mountain pygmy-possum recovery plan project and Nature Conservancy in the USA. through sponsorship provided by Mr David Archer, a keen downhill skier and conservationist now resident in London; Revolving fund essential wader habitat protection works on Pelican Island in the near Port Macquarie; the little tern habitat The NPWS has been actively involved in negotiations for the program in the Taree area; the purchase of an electronic development of a revolving fund, which involves purchasing theodolite for the study of whales off Botany Bay and Eden; land of high conservation value that is under threat, protecting funds for the management of the threatened osprey in the it with a voluntary conservation agreements and on-selling to Lismore area; funding of the search for the long-footed landholders willing to manage for conservation. The revolving potoroo in the Snowy Mountains; and funding of volunteer fund will be jointly funded by the Commonwealth Natural equipment, supervision, training and a thank-you function for Heritage Trust program, ‘Bush for Wildlife’, and the NSW volunteers in the Sydney South area. government, and will be delivered by the NSW Nature Conservation Trust once it is established. 91 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Joint funding initiatives (Prasophyllum affine), Tallong midge orchid (Genoplesium Over the past two years funding has been received through the plumosum) East Lynne midge orchid (Genoplesium vernale), Commonwealth’s Coast and Clean Seas program to develop a Mongarlowe mallee (Eucalyptus recurva), zieria multi- draft strategy for an integrated and cooperative approach to the species plan (Zieria formosa, Z. buxijugum & Z. parrisiae) management of Jervis Bay’s conservation values amongst the Bombaderry zieria (Zieria baeuerlenii) three tiers of government and the community. The strategy is • threatened reptile surveys in Queanbeyan, Yarrowlumla and almost complete and has been enhanced through extensive Cooma- local government areas community consultation and the holding of a conference in • conservation ecology of woodland birds in central New August 2000. A memorandum of understanding to demonstrate South Wales formal commitment from key stakeholders is being developed • pre-European mapping of woodland vegetation in central and a coordinating committee is being established to oversee New South Wales the implementation program. Both the community and • funding for grassy ecosystems recovery work in the government agencies have been calling for increased southern tablelands integration in regard to managing the Jervis Bay region and • the joint regional biodiversity survey of grassy ecosystems this initiative has been welcomed with widespread support. project has received funding to undertake remote sensing mapping of grasslands and grassy woodlands and to produce Restoration of rainforest at Andrew Johnston Big Scrub Nature a final report to set out a conservation strategy for the gassy Reserve was undertaken with the support of $15,000 from the ecosystems and their associated threatened species in the NSW Biodiversity Strategy and $14,000 from the NSW ACT sub-region Environmental Trust, a total of $29,000. A team of three • surveys and the drafting of a national recovery plan for the rainforest regenerators was employed to work on the site, smoky mouse will continue this year with the aid of a grant focusing on the riparian area infested with Madeira vine and gained jointly with the Department of Natural Resources other weeds. and Environment of Victoria Environmental Training & Employment (Northern Rivers) Inc, • the third year of funding was approved by NHT for the with the support of the NPWS, were successful in gaining Bushcare project: Restoration and rehabilitation of lowland Environmental Trust funds to undertake restoration works in sub-tropical rainforest within the Tweed, Brunswick and the Eureka rainforest remnants including Andrew Johnston Big Richmond catchments, now the Far North Coast Catchment. Scrub Nature Reserve. The budget allocation for this project is The total project allocation was $240,000. The second $45,230 of which $4,000 will be spent at Andrew Johnston Big training program has been completed at Wollongbar for the Scrub Nature Reserve. Richmond Catchment. Additional courses will be held next financial year in Murwillumbah and another location yet to Southern Cross University provided Cape Byron State be determined. Recreation Area with $6,000 for education space in the Head Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage. Park use fees Natural Heritage Trust The NPWS undertook a review of park use fees across the state, including day and annual passes, camping fees, landing As a manager of World Heritage properties, the NPWS fees, and exemptions and concessions. This review was receives financial assistance from the Commonwealth aimed at ensuring equitable charges while supporting the government in the form of tied grants through the Natural development and maintenance of visitor services and facilities Heritage Trust (NHT). Listed below are examples of projects such as picnic grounds, camping areas and toilets. undertaken through these grants: Visitor contributions also mean that more funds can be • management works in the Central Eastern Rainforest directed to conservation and education programs. received funding of $479,000 A new range of vehicle park passes was introduced from • rainforest regeneration works in Mallanganee National Park November 2000, covering a total of 44 national parks and and ongoing weed control work in Iluka Nature Reserve reserves. Most national parks and reserves retain free entry • NHT funding supplemented NPWS funding to carry out however. The number of passes was extended from two to four, track work in Nightcap, Dorrigo, Mt Warning, Gibraltar introducing a single country park pass and a country parks Range and Washpool national parks pass. All four passes can also be bought for two years at a • construction of visitor facilities in Bundjalung, Koreelah and discounted rate. These changes provide a much wider range of Oxley Wild Rivers national parks visitor choice. • external Coast and Clean Seas funding was used to fund the majority of little tern recovery activities. A total of The range of concessions and exemptions was also $25,122 was spent out of the yearly allocation of $33,950. reviewed, with the aim of improving access for lower-income The project will continue in 2001-2002 and a further members of the community through a means-tested approach. $24,490 has been received for implementation of the final In addition, volunteer groups with a close association with the year of the project. NPWS, such as the Rural Fire Service, continued to receive • recovery planning for the corroboree frog (Pseudophrhyne exemptions. corroboree), Tarengo leek orchid (Prasophyllum petilum), Araluen zieria (Zieria adenophora) Jervis Bay leek orchid 92 Capacity building

Camping fees were standardised across the state, reducing a wide range of prices to a 4-tiered per-person, per-night M Ewijk Van

structure, with some camping areas still remaining free. L Donne/NPWS A range of internal and external support materials were produced, including public brochures on annual passes and camping in national parks and reserves, and posters describing the different kinds of passes. The NPWS continued to review the Gondwana member program, in consultation with the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, to determine the most cost-effective approach for the future management of this program. Concessions management Although the NPWS provides and maintains most visitor The recent refurbishment of Fort Denison in Sydney Harbour National Park has allowed the facilities on-park, many are established and operated by the addition of a café which is managed by a private contractor. private sector through leases, licenses and contracts. These facilities include ski resorts, restaurants and cafes, kiosks, marinas and caravan parks. In 2000-2001 revenue Enhancing and managing generated from property rentals and concessions amounted to resources for conservation $6 million. A similar amount was generated in 1999-2000. Performance target 2000-2003 Negotiations have continued with the preferred tenderer for the lease of the North Head Quarantine Station. Amendments to • Increase in the resources allocated to protecting the Heritage Act and the requirement to prepare a detailed area conservation values on NPWS managed lands and conservation plan have impacted on the timing for the supporting conservation outside those areas exhibition of the environmental impact statement (EIS), which is now likely to occur in the latter part of 2001. Whether the Performance results 2000-2001 lease will proceed will be dependent on the outcome of the Increased allocation of resources for the protection of EIS process. conservation values on NPWS managed lands is demonstrated Following a Commission of Inquiry into the proposed Perisher in the following graph. Range Resort Area Village Centre Master Plan, it was Expenditure per hectare of NPWS managed lands announced that an additional 1,320 beds would be made available to the Perisher Range resorts. The NPWS has $40 undertaken preliminary work to establish the process, guidelines and allocation criteria to facilitate the distribution of $35 520 non-village beds to existing establishments in Guthega, $30 Smiggin Holes and Perisher Valley. This initiative will be a major revenue project for the NPWS in the next financial year. $25

Leases of the general store and Bryant’s butchery at Hill End $20 Historic Site were publicly tendered and the NPWS is hopeful of attracting suitable operators to take over ongoing $15 maintenance of the premises and provide for appropriate $10 community and commercial opportunities for the town. Options for the commercial use of Nurrewin homestead $5 are also being considered. 0 The NPWS commenced a program to formalise alien tenure 1994/95 1995/96 1996/97 1997/98 1998/99 1999/00 2000/01 2001/02 arrangements across the NPWS estate, particularly those NOTE: The initial recurrent allocation from Treasury for each financial year has been divided by the total recently added as a consequence of the South-East Forest number of hectares of NPWS managed lands for that year. Agreement and the Upper and Lower North-East Regional Forests Agreement. The term alien tenure refers to the Future directions provision of a grant or right of access for an activity or The NPWS will continue to explore and take advantage of installation that is not related to the core purpose of national opportunities to increase the resources available to it for parks. Alien tenures include things such as water easements, protecting conservation values in New South Wales, through TV towers, transmission towers and electricity transmission improving the cost effectiveness of its operations, increasing lines. A number of significant agreements have been revenue, and attracting additional funding from sponsorship negotiated to secure better environmental outcomes and and other sources. improved financial returns for the NPWS. 93 Appendices 6

Murramarang National Park 94

Appendix A NPWS-managed lands at 30 June 2001

Aboriginal areas Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Appletree 4 Booti Booti 1,567 Junuy Juluum 945 Seven Mile Beach 898 Finchley 4 Border Ranges 31,683 Kanangra-Boyd 68,661 Single 2,559 Howe 7 Botany Bay 458 Kinchega 44,260 South East Forest 115,372 Lennox Head <1 Bouddi 1,217 Kings Plains 6,852 Sturt 310,634 Mooney Mooney 8 Bournda 2,563 Kooraban 11,643 Sydney Harbour 393 Mount Ku-ring-gai <1 Brindabella 18,472 Koreelah 5,270 Tallaganda 16,727 Murramarang 60 Brisbane Water 11,497 Kosciuszko 674,373 Tapin Tops 10,976 Nambucca 2 Broadwater 4,209 Kumbatine 13,029 8,074 Nungumirar 122 Budawang 23,787 Ku-ring-gai Chase 14,882 Thirlmere Lakes 630 Pindera Downs 11,433 Budderoo 7,120 Kwiambal 1,301 Tomaree 2,318 Stonewoman 2 Bugong 1,022 Lane Cove 598 Tooloom 4,380 Total 11,643 Bundjalung 20,097 Livingstone 1,919 Toonumbar 14,991 Bungawalbin 3,730 Lower Hunter 2,140 Towarri 4,787 Butterleaf 3,000 Macquarie Pass 1,064 Ulidarra 680 Historic sites Capoompeta 3,900 Mallanganee 1,144 Wadbilliga 97,761 Carrai 11,397 Mallee Cliffs 57,969 Wallingat 6,557 Area (ha) Cascade 3,620 Maria 2,335 Warra 2,031 Cadmans Cottage <1 Cathedral Rock 8,839 Marramarra 11,759 Warrabah 3,471 Clybucca 459 Cattai 424 Maryland 890 Warrumbungle 23,198 Davidson Whaling Station 27 Chaelundi 10,125 Mebbin 3,800 Washpool 59,024 Hartley 13 Clyde River 1,278 Meroo 3,641 Watagans 7,751 Hill End 133 Cocoparra 8,358 Mimosa Rocks 5,667 Weddin Mountains 8,361 Koonadan 22 Conimbla 7,590 Minjary 1,462 Werrikimbe 31,488 Maroota 33 Conjola 8,737 Monga 25,143 Willandra 19,385 1,357 Coolah Tops 10,578 Mooball 1,160 Willi Willi 29,025 Mutawintji 486 Coorabakh 1,840 Morton 189,481 Woko 8,598 Throsby Park 74 Cottan-Bimbang 26,861 Mount Clunie 1,426 Wollemi 492,976 Tweed Heads 8 Crowdy Bay 9,948 Mount Imlay 4,822 Woomargama 23,577 Wisemans Ferry 21 Cudmirrah 2,326 Mount Jerusalem 5,149 Wyrrabalong 620 Yuranighs Aboriginal Grave 2 Culgoa 22,006 Mount Kaputar 36,817 Yabbra 8,890 Total 2,635 Cunnawarra 15,751 Mount Nothofagus 2,180 Yanununbeyan 3,472 Deua 117,557 Mount Pikapene 2,630 Yengo 150,569 Dharug 14,850 Mount Royal 6,920 Yoorigan 1,830 National parks Dooragan 1,042 Mount Warning 2,380 Yuraygir 30,406 Area (ha) Dorrigo 11,871 Mummel Gulf 12,220 Total 4,442,200 19,000 Dunggir 2,500 Mungo 27,847 Bago Bluff 4,023 Eurobodalla 2,315 Murramarang 1,197 Bald Rock 7,453 Fortis Creek 7,838 Mutawintji 68,912 Bangadilly 2,141 Gardens of Stone 15,010 Myall Lakes 44,172 Barakee 3,230 Garigal 2,203 Nangar 9,196 Barool 11,214 Georges River 335 Nattai 47,628 Barrington Tops 73,884 Ghin-Doo-Ee 3,650 New England 71,207 Basket Swamp 2,820 25,346 New South Wales Jervis Bay 4,211 Bellinger River 2,830 Goobang 42,080 Nightcap 8,080 Benambra 1,399 Goonengerry 440 Nowendoc 8,820 Ben Boyd 10,260 Goulburn River 70,161 Nymboi-Binderay 16,870 Ben Halls Gap 2,500 Gourock 7,873 Nymboida 31,566 Biamanga 13,749 Gulaga 4,673 Oxley Wild Rivers 120,394 Bimberamala 4,396 Gundabooka 43,592 Peery 41,680 Bindarri 5,321 Guy Fawkes River 68,460 Popran 3,970 Biriwal Bulga 4,690 Hat Head 7,362 Ramornie 3,160 Blue Mountains 248,148 Heathcote 2,250 Richmond Range 15,420 Bongil Bongil 978 Indwarra 940 Royal 15,080 Boonoo Boonoo 4,352 Jerrawangala 4,013 Scheyville 920

All areas rounded to the nearest hectare 95 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Nature reserves Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Agnes Banks 107 46 Duval 240 Khatambuhl 694 Andrew Johnston Big Scrub 21 Buddigower 327 Eagles Claw 1 Killabakh 2,644 Arakoola 3,180 Bugan 1,530 Egan Peaks 2,145 Killarney 435 Araluen 656 Bungabbee 169 Ellerslie 1,278 Kooragang 2,926 Avisford 2,437 Bungawalbin 467 Eugowra 120 Koorebang 466 Awabakal 227 14 Evans Crown 425 Kororo 11 Baalijin 1,211 Burnt-Down Scrub 364 Fifes Knob 553 Koukandowie 1,283 735 Burnt School 285 Fishermans Bend 160 Kybeyan 432 Badja Swamps 561 270 Five Islands 27 Lake Innes 3,526 Bagul Waajaarr 520 Burrinjuck 3,248 Flaggy Creek 72 Lake Urana 302 Ballina 721 Byrnes Scrub 705 Flagstaff Memorial 18 Langtree 235 Bamarang 370 Camberwarra Range 1,088 Freemantle 361 Limeburners Creek 9,224 Bandicoot Island 30 Camels Hump 545 Gads Sugarloaf 477 Limpinwood 2,647 Banyabba 15,210 Camerons Gorge 1,280 Gamilaroi 114 Linton 640 Barrengarry 21 Captains Creek 2,290 Ganay 355 Lion Island 8 Barren Grounds 2,029 Careunga 469 Georges Creek 1,190 Little Broughton Island 36 Barton 529 Castlereagh 490 Gibraltar 160 Little Llangothlin 258 Bees Nest 584 Cecil Hoskins 47 Girralang 640 Little Pimlico Island 16 Bell Bird Creek 53 Cedar Brush 190 Good Good 20 Long Island 73 Belowla Island 4 Chambigne 798 Goonawarra 437 Loughnan 385 Berkeley 8 Chapmans Peak 72 Goonook 930 Macquarie 12 Bermaguee 818 Clarence Estuary 120 Goorooyarroo 266 Macquarie Marshes 18,192 Big Bush 640 Clarkes Hill 2,139 Gubbata 162 Mann River 6,594 Billinudgel 737 Cockle Bay 44 Gulguer 359 Manobalai 3,758 Bimberi 10,886 Cocopara 4,647 Guy Fawkes River 1,534 Marshalls Creek 112 Binjura 707 Comerong Island 660 Hattons Bluff 18 Meringo 49 Binnaway 3,699 Coocumbac Island 5 Hattons Corner 4 Mernot 320 Bird Island 7 Cook Island 5 Hayters Hill 8 Merriangaah 5,669 Black Andrew 1,559 Coolbaggie 1,793 Hexham Swamp 900 Midkin 359 Black Ash 89 Coolongolook 198 Hogarth Range 853 Mills Island 61 Bluff River 1,793 Coolumbooka 1,529 Hortons Creek 330 Moffats Swamp 151 Boatharbour 24 Cooperabung Creek 325 Illawong 51 Monkerai 865 Bobundara 204 Coornartha 1,184 Iluka 136 Monkeycot 1,612 Bogandyera 8,752 Copperhannia 3,494 Imbota 218 Montague Island 82 Boginderra Hills 554 Coramba 8 Ingalba 4,012 Moonee Beach 336 Bolivia Hill 1,782 Corrie Island 164 Inner Pocket 236 Moon Island 1 Bollanolla 650 Couchy Creek 218 Ironbark 1,604 Moore Park 15 Bondi Gulf 1,800 Courabyra 239 Ironmungy 713 Mororo Creek 80 Boomi 156 Coxcomb 73 Jaaningga 975 Morrisons Lake 312 Boomi West 149 Cudgen 671 Jagun 100 Mother Of Ducks Lagoon 97 Boonanghi 3,753 Cullendulla Creek 126 Jasper 355 Mount Clifford 306 Boondelbah 9 Cumbebin Swamp 40 Jerralong 341 Mount Dowling 513 Boorganna 390 Cuumbeun 709 Jingellic 2,137 Mount Hyland 2,519 Booroolong 865 Dalrymple-Hay 11 Joadja 832 Mount Mackenzie 141 Boronga 195 Dananbilla 1,855 Jobs Mountain 702 Mount Neville 5,821 Bournda 5,862 Dangelong 1,966 John Gould 26 Mount Nullum 99 Bowraville 61 Dapper 999 Julian Rocks <1 Mount Seaview 1,704 Bretti 2,725 Darawank 575 Juugawaarri 2,149 Mount Yarrowyck 170 Brigalow Park 202 Davis Scrub 14 Kajuligah 13,660 Mucklewee Mountain 355 Brimbin 40 Deer Vale 181 Kangaroo River 126 Mudjarn 591 Broken Head 98 Demon 900 Karuah 2,758 Muldiva 10 Broulee Island 43 Devils Glen 41 Kattang 58 Mulgoa 138 Brundee Swamp 230 Dharawal 341 Kemendok 1,043 Mullengandra 150 Brunswick Heads 205 Downfall 496 Khappinghat 3,514 Mundoonen 1,375 96 Appendix A

Nature reserves – cont Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Munghorn Gap 5,935 Seaham Swamp 11 Wallumatta 6 1,504 Munro Island 14 Seal Rocks <1 Wamberal Lagoon 132 Lake Macquarie 667 Muogamarra 2,274 Serpentine 723 Wambina 55 1,673 Mutawintji 6,688 Severn River 4,290 Wambool 194 Mullion Range 1,025 Muttonbird Island 8 Sherwood 4,724 Wanna Wanna 33 Munmorah 1,462 Myalla 143 Silverwater 48 Waragai Creek 186 Nattai 3,383 Nadgee 20,671 Skillion 691 Watsons Creek 1,260 Parr 38,121 Narrandera 71 Snapper Island 13 Wee Jasper 631 Torrington 29,370 Narran Lake 5,538 Snows Gully 34 Weelah 37 Yerranderie 12,192 Creek 878 South-West Solitary Island 3 Weetalibah 613 Total 126,368 Nearie Lake 4,347 Spectacle Island 36 Wiesners Swamp 103 Nest Hill 759 Split Solitary Island 4 Willi Willi Caves 8 Ngadang 160 Stony Batter Creek 564 Wilson 27 Regional parks Ngambaa 10,555 Stony Creek 80 Winburndale 10,048 Area (ha) Ngulin 1,250 Stormpetrel 8 Windsor Downs 363 Berowra Valley 3,870 Nimmo 724 Stotts Island 142 Wingen Maid 1,077 Leacock 34 Nocoleche 74,000 Strike-a-Light 407 Wingham Brush 8 Parramatta 85 Nombinnie 70,000 Susan Island 23 Wogamia 277 4 North Obelisk 36 Tabbimoble Swamp 1,070 Woggoon 6,565 Penrith Lakes <1 North Rock 4 Tabletop 104 Wongarbon 99 Rouse Hill 43 20 Talawahl 3,150 Woodford Island 374 Western Sydney 582 North-West Solitary Island 4 Tallawudjah 1,247 Woollamia 452 William Howe 43 Numeralla 435 Tapitallee 95 Wooyung 87 Wolli Creek 7 Numinbah 858 Tarawi 33,573 Worimi 500 Yellomundee 300 Oak Creek 404 The Basin 2,318 Worrigee 232 Total 4,970 Pambalong 35 The Castles 2,720 Wullwye 155 Parma Creek 3,486 The Charcoal Tank 86 Yahoo Island 46 Paupong 1,838 The Glen 2,750 Yanga 1,772 Pee Dee 441 The Rock 347 Yanununbeyan 40 Karst Pelican Island 40 Tilligerry 120 Yaouk 2,924 conservation Pilliga 80,239 Tinderry 14,533 Yarravel 318 reserves Pitt Town 46 Tingira Heights 18 Yathong 107,241 Area (ha) Planchonella 717 Tollgate Islands 12 Yatteyattah 19 Abercrombie 1,434 Pucawan 274 Tollingo 3,232 Yessabah 10 Borenore 136 Pulbah Island 69 Tomalla 605 Yina 100 Jenolan 2,422 Pulletop 145 Towibakh 62 Total 794,877 Wombeyan 417 Quanda 854 Towra Point 386 Total 4,409 Queanbeyan 2 Triplarina 158 Queens Lake 969 Tuckean 917 State recreation Quidong 750 Tucki Tucki 4 areas Summary as at Rawdon Creek 560 Tuggolo Creek 645 Area (ha) 30 June 2001 Razorback 2,595 Tweed Estuary 59 Arakoon 114 Red Rocks 669 Tyagarah 763 Category No. Area (ha) Bargo 5,660 Regatta Island 102 Ukerebagh 150 Aboriginal areas 11 11,643 Barnunj 164 Richmond River 256 Ulandra 3,931 Historic sites 13 2,635 Bents Basin 48 Rileys Island 46 Undoo 19 National parks 161 4,442,200 Bungonia 3,977 Robertson 5 Uralba 288 Nature reserves 359 794,877 Burragorang 17,312 Rodway 83 Valla 30 State recreation areas 22 126,368 Cape Byron 99 Round Hill 13,630 Victoria Park 17 Regional parks 10 4,970 Colymea 1,674 Running Creek 910 Wadjan 92 Karst conservation Corramy 856 areas 4 4,409 Saltwater Swamp 215 Wallabadah 1,132 Dharawal 5,650 Total 5,387,102* Scabby Range 4,982 Wallamba 1,160 Garawarra 900 *Represents 6.72% of land area of NSW. Scott 151 Wallaroo 2,780 Georges River 1 Sea Acres 76 Wallis Island 473 Glenrock 516

All areas rounded to the nearest hectare 97 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Declared wilderness in NSW Crown land occupied by the at 30 June 2001 NPWS under reserves or lease for various management purposes at Wilderness area NPWS reserve Total (containing declared wilderness) declared 30 June 2001 (ha)* Locality Reserve Area (m2) Purpose Barrington Barrington Tops, Mt Royal NP 54,259 Broken Hill R 230017 1,125 Residence Bimberi Kosciuszko NP, Bimberi and Scabby Range NR 27,489 Eden (Wirriga Street) R 91136 1,145 Workshop Bindery-Mann Nymboida, Gibraltar Range NP 44,235 Tibooburra R 91376 2,023 Workshop Bogong Peaks Kosciuszko NP 27,307 Gol Gol R 91509 2,023 Workshop Brogo Wadbilliga NP 39,895 Cobar R 92637 749 Staff Accommodation Budawang Morton, Budawang NP, freehold (VCA) 75,839 Narooma R 95616 1,992 Workshop Burra Oulla Deua NP 17,776 Tibooburra R 96931 1,012 Workshop Byadbo Kosciuszko NP 78,018 Armidale R 89685 1,256 Workshop Ettrema Morton NP 66,739 Walcha R 98162 3,862 Workshop/depot Genoa South East Forest NP 6,161 Ulladulla R 180018 3,661 Workshop/office Goobarragandra Kosciuszko NP 30,205 Rylstone R 190042 2,491 Depot Grattai Mount Kaputar NP 4,180 Tibooburra R 95882 1,799 Workshop/depot Grose Blue Mountains NP 37,788 Armidale Sp.L.1989/4 2,753 Depot Guy Fawkes Guy Fawkes River NP 49,909 Jangungal Kosciuszko NP 61,746 Land acquired under the provisions of Kanangra-Boyd Blue Mountains, Kanangra-Boyd NP, Yerranderie SRA 114,416 the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, Kunderang (part) Oxley Wild Rivers NP 20,692 and held for management purposes Lost World Border Ranges NP, Limpinwood NR 8,849 (not reserved) at 30 June 2001

Macleay Gorges Oxley Wild Rivers NP 59,289 Locality Area Purpose Mutawintji Mutawintji NP 47,896 Talbingo (35, 44 and 55 Groves St and Nadgee Nadgee NR 19,349 21 Bowman St) 3540m2 Staff accommodation Nandewar Mount Kaputar NP 13,182 Griffith 1808m2 Workshop/depot Nattai Nattai NP 29,040 Tibooburra (Sturt St) 1012m2 Staff accommodation New England New England NP 54,359 Tibooburra 506m2 Office accommodation Pilot Kosciuszko NP 76,798 Tibooburra 506m2 Visitor centre Rusden Mount Kaputar NP 12,637 Nowra 646.9m2 Staff accommodation Warrazambil Border Ranges NP 7,228 Nowra 7954m2 Workshop/depot Werrikimbe Werrikimbe NP 27,123 Dorrigo 5210m2 Workshop/depot Willi Willi Willi Willi NP 23,307 Menindee 2023m2 Staff accommodation Woila Deua Deua NP 18,007 Broken Hill 475m2 Regional office Wollemi Wollemi, Blue Mountains NP 359,984 Jindabyne (Munyang and Cobbon Sts Staff Accom/Visitor Yowrie Wadbilliga NP 16,027 and Snowy River Ave) 1.0825ha centre 2 Total (33 declared areas) 1,578,744 Narooma 2665m Workshop/depot Khancoban (Gray St; 1, 5 and *In 2001 the NPWS adopted a standardised method of calculating and reporting on 13 Douglas St; 1 and 3 Blackburn St; wilderness statistics, using the NPWS digital mapping system. The figures quoted here 8 Whitehead St; Scammel St; 19 Read St; cannot be compared with those of previous years, where data were derived from a variety of and 24 Sheather St) 1.4056 ha Staff accommodation sources. Note that sizes in hectares are approximate values. Bourke (Short St, Anson St and Tudor St ) 3036m2 Staff accommodation Cobar (61 Bradley St) 563m2 Staff accommodation Oberon 1701m2 Office Bulga 35.8ha Office/Depot Bucketty 6731m2 Workshop Oakdale 4274m2 Depot Eden 4196m2 Workshop/Depot Peak Hill 4023m2 Workshop/Depot Bombala 4900m2 Workshop/Depot Boambee 4725m2 Workshop/Depot Ebor 1700m2 Workshop/Depot Rylstone 2188m2 Depot Scone 2023m2 Workshop/Depot Tenterfield 2023m2 Depot Total area 45.02ha 98 Appendix A

Lands acquired Park/locality Area (ha) Park/locality Area (ha) Park/locality Area (ha) under the Coffs Harbour/Solitary Is 35 Melville Range (Oaky Creek) 838 Towra Point NR 48 provisions of the Coolah Tops NP 1,473 Mimosa Rocks NP 111 Tyagarah NR 37 National Parks Coonavitra 29,163 Montague Island NR <1 Wadbilliga NP 234 and Wildlife Act Dananbilla NR 375 Morton NP 1,172 Washpool NP 5,106 1974, pending Fortis Creek NP 122 Mount Neville NR 754 Wellington Stockade 13 reservation/ Gandangara 7 Mulgoa NR 75 Willi Willi NP 845 dedication, at Garawarra SRA 2 Myall Lakes NP 16 Wollemi NP 77 30 June 2001 Georges River NP 2 Narran Lake NR 3,547 Wolli Creek RP <1 Gundabooka NP 20,734 New England NP 888 Wyrrabalong NP <1 Park/locality Area (ha) Guy Fawkes River NP 20,312 NSW Jervis Bay NP 22 Yaegl (Maclean Wetlands) 313 Bald Rock NP 1,344 Hartley HS <1 Nombinnie NR 56,296 Yengo NP 1,581 Ben Boyd NP 14 Hat Head NP 34 Nymboi-Binderay NP 388 Total 306,512 Berowra Valley RP 4 Hayters Hill NR <1 Nymboida NP 8,685 Billinudgel NR 2 Heathcote NP 3 Oxley Wild Rivers NP 10,529 Blue Mountains NP 357 Hill End HS 4 Peery NP 50,467 Boambee <1 Illawarra Escarpment SRA 106 Prospect Lower Canal 55 Lands vested in Bongil Bongil NP 348 Jerilderie 37 Quanda NR 3,925 the Minister Border Ranges NP 46 Kemps Creek 129 Queens Lake NR 22 administering the Botany Bay NP <1 Kings Plains NP 17 Richmond Range NP 290 National Parks Bournda NP 13 Kirramingly 1,297 South Solitary Island NR 11 and Wildlife Act Brigalow Park NR 51 Kooragang NR 61 Stockton Bight 111 1974 by virtue of Brisbane Water NP 19 Koorawatha 938 Sturt NP 35,050 Act 1996 No 131 Broadwater NP 21 Kuma 181 Sydney Harbour NP <1 (Forestry Bundjalung NP 38 Ku-ring-gai Chase NP 11 Tamboroora 10 Revocation and Bungonia SRA 29 Kwiambal NP 2,084 Tilpilly 24,225 National Park Camerons Gorge NR 32 Lake Innes NR 422 Tomaree NP 30 Reservation Act) Chaelundi NP 3,146 Ledknapper 16,338 Torrington SRA 680 Claremont 202 Total area About 452 hectares Marramarra NP 27 Towarri NP 574 Clybucca HS 8 P Green/NPWS 99 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix B Significant statutory bodies and committees

National Parks At 30 June 2001 the Council National Parks Central Coast Region and Wildlife consisted of the following members: and Wildlife Dr Juliet Corish Advisory Council Mr Brian Gilligan Advisory Mr Sydney Craythorn Mr Borry Gartrell The National Parks and Wildlife Director-General of the National Parks Committees Mrs Yvonne Hutton Advisory Council was established and Wildlife Service National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Mrs Jennifer Kenna under section 22 of the National Parks Chairperson of the Council Committees are constituted by the Mr Phillip Kingsley-Miller and Wildlife Act 1974. It has specific Minister for the Environment to make Ms Margaret Combs Mr Andrew Kennedy functions under the Act with special recommendations to the National Hartley Historic Site Advisory Mr Gary Mathews responsibility for considering plans of Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council, Committee Mr Robert Newton management for national parks, nature the Director-General, or the Mr Kenneth Rogers reserves and historic sites before Mr Bob Gray (until April 2001) appropriate regional manager on Ms Sue Wakefield adoption of the plans. It is also Department of Land and Water measures to improve the care, control Mr Graham Williams required to consider any Conservation and management of those national representations received in response Mr David Hodgkinson parks, nature reserves, historic sites, Far South Coast to public exhibition of the plans. NSW Farmers’ Association state recreation areas or regional Region The Council considers matters parks for which they are appointed. Mr John Aveyard Mr Roger Lembit referred to it by the Minister for the At 30 June 2001 there were Mrs Maureen Baker Nature Conservation Council Environment, the NPWS Director- 20 Advisory Committees, with Cr Allan Brown General or advisory committees, and Mr Ron Mathews membership as follows: Ms Ellen Chadwick provides advice on various matters, Four-Wheel Drive Association Mrs Elaine Garvey Blue Mountains including those relating to the care, Dr Alan Lloyd Mrs Genevieve Reid Region control and management of NPWS North Coast Region Advisory Mrs Wendy Rose areas. In addition to the Director- Committee Mr Warwick Armstrong Mr Robert Ross General, the council has up to 15 Mr Joseph Banffy Dr David Shaw Dr Stephen Lord members who represent various Ms Luciana Bowen Mr Fergus Thomson National Parks Association of NSW conservation, educational, scientific Mr Roy Cameron Mr Trevor Threlfo and natural resource management Dr Michael Mahony Mr Grahame Douglas Mr David Wauchope organisations with an interest in the University of Newcastle Mrs Helen Drewe Far West Region management and use of NPWS- Mr Kevin Field Dr Richard Major Mr Robert Algate managed areas and who are appointed Mrs Glenys Gilling Australian Museum Mr Peter Beven by the Minister. Mr Andy McQueen Mrs Annie Hughes Professor Robert Whelan Ms Fiona Meller Mrs Diana Hoffman University of Wollongong Mr Bill Shields Mrs Mavis Jackson Dr Kent Williams Cr Michael Sweeney Mr Richard Kelly Commonwealth Scientific and Mr John Tolhurst Mrs Dorothy Kiely Industrial Research Organisation Mr Ian Tucker Mr Neil McGarry Central Coast Hunter Mrs Frances McKinnon Range Region Mrs Suzanne O'Halloran Mr Daryl Bower Mr Roland Smith Mr Colin Cowan Mr Arthur Vann Ms Narelle Howard Hartley Historic Site Mr Nicholas Jacomas Ms Margaret Combs Mrs Dellas Johnston Mr Ross Fragar Mr Robert Kelly Mrs Marian Kinnear Mr Ian Paul Mr John Luchetti Mr Victor Perry Mr Gerard Martin Mrs Helen Sharrock Mr Bob Morris Mrs Beryl Strom Mr David Peters Mrs Jennifer Watkins Dr Kenneth Zimmerman 100 Appendix B

Hunter Region Northern Rivers South Coast Region Sydney South Region Mr Leonard Anderson Region Mr William Barnetson Mrs Sheelah Boleyn Mrs Freeda Archibald Mr Jeremy Buultjens Ms Sally-Ann Gray Mr Timothy Carroll Mr David Brooker Mr Ken Cockburn Mr Mark Hurley Mrs Glenda Chalker Cr Helen Brown Ms Raylee Delaney Mrs Denise Lutui Ms Kerrie Christian Mr Michael Elfick Mr Phillip Falk Dr Kevin Mills Mr Phillip Costa Mrs Margaret Francis Mr Stephen Fletcher Mr Robert Pallin Ms Sharyn Cullis Mrs Linda Gill Ms Sandra Heilpern Mr David Phelps Mrs Dawn Emerson Mr Roderick Kidd Mr Douglas Jardine Miss Lynne Robinson Mr Mervyn Ryan Mr Mick Leon Mrs Stephanie Lymburner Mr Robert Snedden Mr Philip Sansom Mr Bradley Lewis Mr Terrance Moody Dr David Tranter Mr Peter Stitt Dr George McKay Mr Hugh Nicholson Cr Joyce Wheatley Ms Miriam Verbeek Mr John Le Messurier Cr Alan Rich Mr Shayne Williams South-West Slopes Mr Geoffrey Moore Cr Kathryn Rodgers Region Upper Darling Region Mid North Coast Northern Tablelands Mrs Sue a'Beckett Mr Peter Bradley Region Mrs Patricia Ainsworth Mr Robert Apps Mr Michael Davis Ms Megan Benson Sir Owen Croft Miss Claire Carlton Mr Barry Edwards Mr Len Blacklow Mrs Barbara Graham Mr Timothy Cathles Mr Paul Gordon Mr Frazer Gorely Dr Robin Gunning Mr Adrian Davey Mr Wayne Leigh Mr Frank Harrison Ms Lynne Hosking Mr Paul Davies Mr Leslie Le Lievre Dr Philip Holberton Dr Alan Jackson Mr Russell Dunn Mr Jeffrey Louis Ms Margaret Howard Mr Craig Klingner Mrs Margery Smith Mr Colin McDonald Mr Max Ingram Mr Peter Metcalfe Mr Peter Southwell Mr Cecil Miller Ms Isabelle Lee Dr Nick Reid Cr Gene Vanzella Ms Janine Ohlsen Mrs Wendy McKeough Mr Allen Strudwick Mr William Wells Mr Craig Roberts Mr Steven Read Mr John Taylor Mr John Wilson Mr Clark Valler Mrs Dorothy Russell Sydney Region Mr Peter Wall Riverina Region Mrs Beverley Batros North Coast Region Mrs Enid Atkinson Mr Gerry Beasley Mr Graham Ashton Mrs Debra Collins Mr Peter Caldwell Mr Geoffrey Bridger Mr Ian Lockhart Ms Barbara de Rome Mr Robert Coutts Cr Robert McMartin Ms Brigid Dowsett Mrs Barbara Fahey Mr Arthur Milthorpe Ms Helen Lochhead Ms Kay Jeffery Mr William Moller Ms Shirley Jenkins Dr Alan Lloyd Mrs Lilian Parker Mr Garry McIlwaine Mr Peter Morgan Mr Neville Rose Ms Pauline McLeod Mrs Judith Mortlock Mr Michael Schultz Mr Zenon Michniewicz Mr Bob Piper Mr Roy Stacy Ms Christine O'Brien Ms Debbie Repschlager Mr John Sullivan Sydney North Region Mr James Tedder Mr Ian Thompson Mrs Diane Campbell Mrs Della Walker Snowy Mountains Mr Bruce Foott Northern Plains Region Mrs Patricia Giles Region Mr Ashley Blondel Mrs Roslyn Gillies Mr Robert Dick Dr Robert Creelman Mr Stephen Gray Mrs Meryl Dillon Mr Kurt Cremer Mr Doug Macdonald Ms Kay Durham Mrs Gaynor Epstein Ms Gabrielle O'Donnell Mr Wallace Gilmour Mr Peter Mitchell Cr Steven Pringle Mrs Margaret Harris Ms Ellen Mundy Mrs Jill Reardon Mrs Gillian Hogendyk Mrs Noreen Pendergast Mr Robert Salt Mr Timothy Horan Mr Ken Prendergast Mrs Diane Waring Mrs Jane Judd Ms Anne Reeves Mr Terry Wilson Mr Geoffrey Mitchell Mr James Sias Ms Judie Peet Ms Dianne Thompson Mrs Joan Treweeke Ms Janice Walker Mr John Whitehead Mr Geoffrey Waters 101 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Cultural Heritage Trusts Research Advisory Trusts have been appointed under the M Ewijk Van Committee National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, The Cultural Heritage Research charged with the care, control and Advisory Committee was established management of the state recreation by the NPWS to provide specialist area or regional park for which each expert advice and guidance to the has been appointed. The members of Service in relation to its strategic the three trusts established as at cultural heritage research program. 30 June 2001 were as follows: At 30 June 2001 the members of the Committee were: Berowra Valley Regional Park Trust • Dr Denis Byrne, Manager Research Unit, Cultural Heritage Division Cr Graham Orr (Chairperson) (NPWS) (Chairperson) Cr Matthew Benson Mr Chris McIntosh (ex-officio, • Associate Professor Heather NPWS) Goodall, Department of Writing, Cr John Muirhead Social and Cultural Studies Ms Margaret Murray (University of Technology, Sydney) Mr Bob Salt • Ms Christine Grant, Director Ms Polly Thompson Indigenous Heritage (Australian Heritage Commission) Cape Byron State Recreation Area Trust • Associate Professor Paula Hamilton, Department of Writing, Mr R Buck (Chairperson) Social and Cultural Studies Mr G Brown (University of Technology, Sydney) Mr P Helman Mr M Johnston (ex-officio, NPWS) • Dr Paul Ashton, Department of Mrs L Kelly (ex-officio, Arakwal Writing, Social and Cultural Studies Aboriginal Corporation) (University of Technology, Sydney) Mr P Massey-Reid (ex-officio, • Associate Professor Ian Jack, Department of Land and Water Department of History (University Conservation) of Sydney) Ms S Nelson Mr S Singh • Mr Rick Schapter (NSW History Council) Parramatta Regional • Dr Carol Liston, Department of Park Trust Cultural Histories and Futures Mr Tom Uren (Chairperson) (University of Western Sydney) Ms Jillian Comber (ex-officio, NPWS) • Kado Muir, Manager Native Title Ms Elaine Evans Research (AIATSIS) Cr John Haines OAM Cr Peter Herlinger • Ms Brenda Palmer (National Mr Alan Overton OAM Aboriginal History and Heritage Ms Penny Pike (ex-officio, Heritage Council) Office) • Mr Jason Ardler, Manager Cultural Mr Phillip Russo Heritage Division (NPWS) Ms Jane Supit • Ms Katharine Schilling, Aboriginal Women’s Heritage Coordinator 102 Appendix B

NPWS representation on significant statutory bodies and inter-departmental committees

Officer Position Body or committee Mr Brian Gilligan Director-General • Marine Parks Authority • Farming for the Future Board of Management • Koala and Endangered Species Trust • NSW Heritage Council • Resource and Conservation Assessment Council • IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) Leaders Forum Ms Sally Barnes Director Education and Community Program • NSW Council on Environmental Education • Board of the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife Mr Bob Conroy Director Central • NSW Bushfire Coordinating Committee • Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Trust • Australasian Fire Authorities Council Dr Tony Fleming Director Southern • Illawarra-South East Regional Coordination Management Group Mr Terry Korn Director Western • Western Lands Advisory Board • WEST 2000 Board • Regional Coordinators Management Group Mr John O’Gorman Director Northern • Lord Howe Island Board (chairperson) • Representative on Inter-Departmental Committee for Lord Howe Island National Competition Policy review • CERRA Steering Committee Mr Michael Wright Director Policy and Science • Native Vegetation Advisory Council • Salinity Senior Officers Group • Marine Parks Advisory Council • Natural Resources Deputies Taskforce • NSW Coastal Council Mr John Allen Conservation Planning Officer, • Northern Tablelands Regional Vegetation Committee Northern Directorate Ms Sonya Ardill Environmental Policy Officer • Northern Rivers Water Management Committee • Upper North Coast Water Management Committee • Mid North Coast Water Management Committee Mr Jason Ardler Manager Cultural Heritage Division • NSW Heritage Council (deputy member) • NSW State Heritage Register Committee (NSW Heritage Council) • Aboriginal Advisory Committee (NSW Heritage Council) • NSW State Reconciliation Committee • Senior Officers’ Working Party on the Future Management of Aboriginal Heritage in NSW Dr Tony Auld Principal Research Scientist • NSW Scientific Committee • ANZECC Endangered Flora Network Ms Linda Bell Conservation Planning Coordinator • State Wetland Advisory Committee • Greening Australia Technical Committee • Native Vegetation Advisory Council Incentives Sub Committee • Native Vegetation Advisory Council Strategy Sub Committee • Sustainable Agriculture Policy Review Group Ms Olivia Bush Environmental Planning Officer • Lower Macquarie-Castlereagh Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Matt Cameron Manager, Threatened Species Unit, • Walgett Regional Vegetation Committee Western Directorate Ms Monica Collins Conservation Planning Officer, Northern Region • Manning Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Mark Conlon Acting Manager, Major Programs Group • Western Regional Assessment Steering Committee • Southern Comprehensive Regional Assessment Working Group • Biological Diversity Advisory Council • Biodiversity Strategy Implementation Group 103 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Officer Position Body or committee Mr Greg Croft Mid North Coast Regional Manager • Yarrahapinni Wetlands Trust (Ministerial appointment) • Mid North Coast Catchment Board Mr Peter Croft Senior Ranger, Biodiversity • Inverell-Yallaroi Regional Vegetation Committee • Tenterfield Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Brendan Diacono Manager Conservation Planning Unit • Lower North Coast Water Management Committee Mr Wayne Dornbusch Northern Plains Regional Manager • Catchment Management Board Ms Susan Elks Conservation Planning Officer • Nundle-South Parry Regional Vegetation Committee Dr Mike Fleming Manager, Operational Support and • Mid Lachlan Regional Vegetation Committee Coordination Unit Mr Bob Friederich Northern Tablelands Regional Manager • Gwydir Catchment Management Board • North West Heads of Government Mr Robert Gibbs Hunter Coast Area Manager • Hunter Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Denis Gojak Historic Archaeologist • Archaeological Advisory Panel (NSW Heritage Council) Ms Jo Gorman Manager, Lower Darling Area • Southern Mallee Regional Planing Committee Mr Christian Hampson Aboriginal Heritage Officer (Southern) • Australian Alps Liaison Committee Mr Bob Harden Senior Project Officer • Animal Research Review Panel Mr Paul Houston Aboriginal Sites Registrar • National Indigenous Heritage Officers Network Mr Alan Jeffery North Coast Regional Manager • Upper North Coast Catchment Management Board • Lord Howe Island Marine Park Advisory Committee • Solitary Islands Marine Park Advisory Committee Mr Bill Johnson Water Reform Specialist • Central West Catchment Management Board • Central West Unregulated River Management Committee • Central West Unregulated River Management Committee Inter Agency Working Group • Management Committee • Gwydir River Management Committee Flows Sub-committee • Gwydir River Management Committee Planning Working Group • Gwydir Unregulated River Management Committee • Gwydir Wetlands Ramsar Mgmt Group • Macquarie Marshes Environmental Flow Reference Group • Macquarie Marshes Ramsar Mgmt Group • Macquarie- Management Committee • Namoi Unregulated River Management Committee Mr Mark Johnston Northern Rivers Regional Manager • Cape Byron State Recreation Area Trust Mr Ken Jurotte Upper Darling Regional Manager • Western Catchment Management Board Dr David Keith Senior Research Scientist • Native Vegetation Mapping Program Technical Committee • IUCN Red List Criteria Review Working Group Dr Richard Kingsford Principal Research Scientist • Implementation Management Committee for Water Reform • Border Rivers Committee (NSW-Queensland) • Policy and Technical Committee for development of river flow objectives for every river in NSW • Scientific Technical Panel reviewing expenditure on scientific monitoring of rivers in NSW • Scientific Panel for open seasons for waterfowl in NSW (Chairperson, May to June 2001) • Cooper Creek Catchment Committee Mr Ross McDonnell Riverina Regional Manager • Game Birds Management Committee • Murray Catchment Management Board 104 Appendix B

Officer Position Body or committee Mr Michael Maher Water Reform Specialist • Barwon- Management Committee • Barwon-Darling River Management Committee Planning Working Group • Condamine - Balonne Technical Advisory Panel • Great Artesian Basin Advisory Committee • Lachlan Ground Water Mgmt Committee • Lachlan Ground Water Mgmt Committee Ground Water Dependent Ecosystems Working Group • Management Committee • Lachlan River Management Committee Habitat Working Group • Lachlan River Management Committee Planning Working Group • Lachlan Unregulated River Management Committee • Lachlan Unregulated River Management Committee Inter-agency Working Group Ms Liz Mazzer Environmental Planning Officer • Liverpool Plains Regional Vegetation Committee • Narrabri-Coonabarabran-Coolah Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Steve Millington Far West Regional Manager • Menindee ESD Committee • World Heritage Coordination and Management Committee Ms Holly North Conservation Planning Officer • Northern Tablelands Regional Vegetation Committee Dr Robert Pressey Principal Research Scientist • Taskforce on Effectiveness of Protected Areas (World Areas Commission on Protected Areas) • NSW State of the Environment Report 2000 • Marine Parks Research Committee Mr Robert Quirk Hunter Regional Manager • Lower North Coast Catchment Board • Tomago Tomaree Groundwater Management Committee Mr Nick Rigby Central West Regional Manager • Central West Catchment Management Board Mr Kevin Roberts Manager Conservation Planning Unit • ANZECC Working Group on Nature Conservation on Private Land Mr David Robson Manager, Conservation Assessment and • North Lachlan-Bogan Regional Vegetation Committee Planning Unit, Western Directorate Ms Jeanette Schwartz Environmental Planning Officer • Moree Regional Vegetation Committee • Brewarrina Regional Vegetation Committee Mr Dominic Siversten Senior Project Officer • Vegetation theme of the National Land and Water Audit • Climate Change Workshops (Australian Greenhouse Office) Mr John Turbill Conservation Planning Officer, Northern Region • Clarence Regional Vegetation Committee • Richmond Regional Vegetation Committee Ms Sharon Veale Historian • History Advisory Panel (NSW Heritage Council) Dr Lynn Webber Manager Education and Community Involvement • NSW Council on Environmental Education (deputy) • State Landcare Working Group • State Working Group – Farming for the Future • NSW Roadside Environment Committee • Coastal Council Communication and Education Working Group • NHT Green Corps Project Evaluation Panel • NSW Environmental Trust Environmental Education Technical Panel Ms Jo White Manager Landscape Conservation Division • State Catchment Management Coordinating Committee 105 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix C Infringements and prosecutions 2000–2001

Offence categories Prosecutions Infringements National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 M Ewijk Van Domestic/feral animals 5 – Fail to give details 16 675 Licence conditions 1 8 Parking 5 – Protected fauna 13 3 Protected fauna – marine mammal 1 – Protected native plant 1 – Relics 1 – Threatened species – fauna 10 – Threatened species – vegetation 1 – Vegetation ––

National Parks and Wildlife (Land Management) Regulation 1995 Protection of animals –– Camping – 31 Contravene noise –– Domestic animals 17 82 Fires 2 13 Litter/damage 1 20 Offensive conduct 4 22 Other (chainsaw, risk safety) 1 6 Parking 668 Traffic/access 129 Vegetation 2 4 Weapons – 4

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 Litter 1 36 Total 82 1,701 106

Appendix D Consultants engaged 2000–2001

A consultant is an organisation or an individual engaged for a defined period of time solely to provide an expert opinion or recommendations to the NPWS on a specific issue or task. Summary of consultancies costing $30,000 or more Consultant name Brief description of project Cost ($) Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher Village Centre Disposition 207,091 Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher Range Infrastructure Strategy 177,000 University of Sydney Review of procedures for culling feral populations 141,972 Community Solutions Model grassy box woodland 120,000 Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher Range areas 109,313 Corporate Renewal Transition management program stage 2 101,168 Dept of Land and Water Conservation Albury Bushcare facilitation 84,644 URS Australia Pty Ltd Preparation of environmental management system at Perisher 74,282 Jackson Teece Chesterman Willis Consultants Pty Ltd Perisher centre valley precinct plan 73,912 Computer Consultants International Manipulation of spatial data from southern RFA 65,792 Corporate Renewal Transition management program needs identification 65,578 Gary Varga North Coast Bushcare manual 65,000 Colin Pardo Bioanthropology Murrumbidgee Area Aboriginal cultural heritage study 63,264 Coonabarabran Rural Lands Board Regional Bushcare facilitation 62,500 Connell Wagner Perisher Resorts environmental study 60,325 Clayton Utz Advice on native title issues 60,000 Collaborative Solutions Aboriginal place program, Northern Region 59,984 Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher water supply design assessments 54,644 Goulding Heritage Consulting Coffs Harbour Aboriginal heritage study 54,540 Graham Brooks and Associates Bantry Bay explosives archaeological zoning plan 51,378 Robert Staples and Associates Perisher central valley precinct plan 50,818 BSR Pacific Consulting Group Business cases and economic appraisal for information management strategic plan 49,600 GHD-Longmac Pty Ltd Thredbo Village landslip assessment 49,202 Graham Books and Associates Conservation management plan stage 2 Royal NP coastal cabins area 45,528 Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher Valley precinct plan 38,489 Worldwide Fund for Nature Design and management of additional Ramsar sites 38,000 Social Change Online D Base map application hosting 37,100 CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems Optimising conservation of farm woodlands 37,000 AJ Morrison and Associates Garie access options 36,000 Dobbin Consulting Develop Stage 1 fire training 35,069 Dept of Public Works and Services Perisher Range bridge audit 34,000 Dept of Public Works and Services Assessments of Perisher Range ski resorts 33,922 Australian Trust for Conservation Regional Bushcare facilitation 32,500 Conservation Volunteers Aust Regional Bushcare facilitation 32,500 IPS Consulting Ku-ring-gai incident counselling services 31,878 Greening Australia Far west Bushcare facilitation 31,250

Summary of consultancies costing less than $30,000 The NPWS engaged 466 consultants to undertake projects costing less than $30,000 in 2000-2001, at a total cost of $2,277,344. 107 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix E Employee statistics 2000–2001

Employees by category Numbers reported are the EFT at the stated date.

Category 30/06/98 30/06/99 30/06/00 30/06/01 Senior Executive Service 5999 Senior managers/Senior officers 36 34 40 39 Clerical/clerks 420 454 476 527 Legal officers 4544 Technical staff 68 55 51 48 Rangers/Snr rangers/Trainee rangers 188 238 237 258 Assistant/Area/District managers 89 97 74 74 Pilots/crew 6567 Project officers/Research scientists 238 245 273 308 Librarians 2212 Interpretive assistants 3279 Law enforcement officers 5345 Field officers 475 443 465 532 Trades persons 11 10 11 13 Total 1,550 1,602 1,658 1,835 M Ewijk Van 108 Appendix E

Proportion of total staff by salary level 2000-2001 The table below was extracted from the EEO report submitted to ODEOPE as part of Departmental reporting requirements. The numbers shown are based on headcount, not EFT.

Level Subgroup as proportion of total staff at each level Subgroup as estimated proportion of total staff at each level

Aboriginal People from People whose People with People with Total staff and Torres racial, ethnic, language first a disability a disability Strait ethno-religious spoken as a requiring Islanders minority child was not work-related Respondents Men Women groups English adjustment Number %%%%%%%% <$26,802 0 $26,803-$39,354 477 84 72 28 10 5362 $39,355-$49,799 292 85 55 45 4.5 4 6 4 0.8 $49,800-$64,400 429 85 62 38 37531.1 >$64,401 (non SES) 224 84 71 29 2.7 6 4 5 1.6 SES 90 80 20 0 22 0 0 0 Total 1,422 84 65 35 5.75541.3 Estimated sub-group totals 1,201 930 492 80 78 65 60 19 Note: Figures for EEO groups other than women have been adjusted to compensate for the effects of non-response to the EEO data collection. EEO statistics reported in years before 1998 may not be comparable due to a change in the method of estimating EEO group representation.

Proportion of total staff by employment basis 2000–2001 The table below was extracted from the EEO report submitted to ODEOPE as part of departmental reporting requirements. The numbers shown are based on headcount, not EFT.

Level Subgroup as proportion of total staff at each level Subgroup as estimated proportion of total staff at each level

Aboriginal People from People whose People with People with Total staff and Torres racial, ethnic, language first a disability a disability Strait ethno-religious spoken as a requiring Islanders minority child was not work-related Respondents Men Women groups English adjustment Number %%%%%%%% Permanent 1,435 – Full time 84 65 35 5.7 6 5 4 1.4 – Part time 80 13 87 1.5 6300 Temporary 396 – Full time 85 54 46 4.8 6 5 2 0.3 – Part time 74 43 57 04400 Contract – SES 9080200220 0 0 Training positions 100 0 100 00000 Casual 284 61 36 64 8.6 3320 Total 2,115 81 59 41 5.95541.1 Estimated sub-group totals 1,722 1,250 865 125 112 96 78 23 Note: Figures for EEO groups other than women have been adjusted to compensate for the effects of non-response to the EEO data collection. EEO statistics reported in years before 1998 may not be comparable due to a change in the method of estimating EEO group representation. Differences in total numbers have occurred because separate databases were used. In 2001-2002 human resource information systems are in the process of refining to improve data collection. 109 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Employees by location at 30 June 2001 NPWS Executive Location Number Proportion (%) The NPWS Executive management team at 30 June 2001 comprised: Head Office 444 24.2 Director-General Central Directorate 425 23.1 Northern Directorate 456 24.9 Brian Gilligan BA, Dip Ed, MA (Biogeography) Southern Directorate 342 18.6 Director Central Western Directorate 168 9.2 Total 1,835 100 Bob Conroy BA, Dip Env Studies, M Mgt

Director Corporate Services Number of SES positions at Arthur Diakos B Bus, FCPA 30 June 2001 Director Education and Community Programs Sally Barnes BA, Dip Ed, Grad Dip Information Science Level 30/06/99 30/06/00 30/6/01 6111Director Legal Services 5000 Vivienne Ingram BA (Hons) LLB 4111 3555Director Northern 2222 1000John O’Gorman BSc, BSc (Tech), M Mgt Total 9 9 9 Director Policy and Science The number of SES positions held by women at 30 June 2001 was two (the same Michael Wright BA, B Comm as in 1999-2000). Director Southern Tony Fleming BSc (Hons), PhD (Forestry)

Director Western Terry Korn BA (Biol Science), M Appl Sc, Dip Ag 110

Appendix F Performance statement

Director-General of National Parks and NPWS Wildlife Service

NAME: Brian Gilligan POSITION: Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife Service PERIOD: 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001

Results During the year Mr Gilligan oversaw continuing reform of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Over this period there was a continuing and substantial expansion of the reserve system, with particular emphasis on the under-represented bioregions in the west of the State. Work continued on the Western Regional Assessment, over 360,000 hectares were added to the national park system, and 14 plans of management were adopted covering 21 NPWS-managed areas. Major matters dealt with by Mr Gilligan during the year included: • coordinating implementation of the Government’s Biodiversity Strategy • continuing to work with the community to improve conservation across the landscape, particularly outside NPWS-managed lands • continuing to work with indigenous communities to establish new joint management arrangements • maintaining and enhancing NPWS’s commitments to its threatened species responsibilities, with major efforts focusing on the development of recovery plans and the drafting of the Fox Threat Abatement Plan • continuing to document the contribution of parks and reserves to rural economies • working in partnership with local landholders and other government bodies to deal with issues related to fire management and wild dog control. There have also been further improvements in NPWS corporate governance systems, including the review of the Corporate Plan, the consolidation of the Audit and Compliance Program, the implementation of the Privacy Management Plan, and the development of a Risk Management Plan which provides a framework to help identify and address priority risk areas.

Bob Debus MP 30 June 2001 111 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix G Statement of Affairs and Freedom of Information

Statement of Affairs • staff matters – recruitment and training of staff and staff members’ personal files; and Under the Freedom of Information Act 1989, the NPWS prepares a Statement of Affairs for the organisation which, as at 30 June 2001, includes the designated • NPWS policies – the Service’s policy documents. agencies of National Parks and Wildlife Service (agency number 32), the National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council (agency number 1743), advisory committees Aboriginal Sites Register (agency number 1824) and the Director-General of the National Parks and The NPWS maintains information on known Aboriginal sites in New South Wales Wildlife Service (agency number 2255). in a register which details the type and location of sites, reports and slides. The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 specifies activities which may or may Some information is available on a computer database. Access to the register is not take place within areas managed by the NPWS. These include many activities available to Aboriginal groups, researchers and interested members of the public, undertaken by visitors in parks: the use of vehicles; protection of plants and although due to the sensitive nature of some matters, access may be restricted in animals, historic structures, relics and Aboriginal areas; collection of scientific some cases. The NPWS undertakes computer searches of the register for a fee but specimens; prohibition of domestic animals; and impounding of cattle. restrictions may apply. For more information contact the Aboriginal Sites Registrar, Cultural Heritage Division, Hurstville on (02) 9585 6444. The NPWS is responsible for the issue and administration of the following licences: Historic Places Register Licence Section of Act The NPWS maintains information on known historic places on NPWS land in a General licence (S 120) register which details the type and location of historic places, reports and other Occupier's licence (S 121) archival material. Some information is available on a computer database. Access Game licence (S 122) to the register is available to researchers and interested members of the public. Trapper's licence (S 123) For more information contact the Database Coordinator, Cultural Heritage Fauna dealer's licence (S 124) Division, Hurstville on (02) 9585 6444. Skin dealer's licence (S 125) Import and export (from NSW) licences (S 126) Public registers Licence to liberate animals (S 127) The NPWS holds registers of conservation agreements and interim protection Aviary registration certificates (S 128) orders, which are maintained by the Conservation Management Unit, and Licence to pick native plants for scientific or commercial purposes (S 131) wilderness protection agreements, which are maintained by the Conservation Licence to grow native plants for sale (S 132) Assessment and Priorities Unit. The NPWS also has a register of critical habitat declared under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, The NPWS monitors developments likely to have adverse impacts on Aboriginal which is maintained by the Biodiversity Management Unit. These units are located relics and places. The NPWS may issue permits for investigation of Aboriginal at Hurstville and may be contacted on (02) 9585 6444. sites, or consents allowing destruction of certain sites unless assessment of significance of the sites justifies their permanent conservation. Leases and Other documents licences may also be granted for erection or occupation of buildings for certain The Business Development Division of the NPWS (telephone (02) 9585 6444) purposes or to carry out trades and businesses within certain NPWS areas. maintains a list of Service leases and other forms of tenure, which are registered Easements may be granted for the provision of public utilities through NPWS with the Land Titles Office. The unit can provide a reference number, which areas. The NPWS is also responsible for issuing threatened species licences should be quoted at the Land Titles Office in order to view a document. under section 91 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Inquiries regarding access to maps and plans of NPWS-managed areas should be referred to the Conservation Management Unit. The Service’s photographic Documents held by the NPWS and film library is available to the public and other agencies under certain The NPWS holds documents in its Hurstville and regional and area offices. conditions and inquiries should be directed to the Publications Unit, The listing of a document does not mean that it is automatically available for Hurstville on (02) 9585 6444. inspection. Some documents may not be available unless a formal freedom of information application has been received. Publications The NPWS produces a range of books, guides, teachers’ kits, information Files pamphlets and posters relating to national parks, historic sites and flora and Most NPWS documents are stored as files, including those relating to: fauna in New South Wales. All NPWS publications may be obtained over the counter at the National Parks Centre, 102 George Street, The Rocks, or by mail • administration – budget and financial matters, general correspondence, from NPWS Mail Order at Hurstville or from many regional offices, area offices accommodation; and visitor centres. Many items are also held by the NPWS Library at Hurstville. • function – issues relating to the management of each area, new area proposals, Recovery plans and threat abatement plans for threatened species are available policies, interpretive and educational programs, wildlife management, licences, for public inspection by contacting the Biodiversity Management Unit on offences, preservation and protection of historical and Aboriginal areas; (02) 9585 6444. 112 Appendix G

Freedom of Information Section H – Costs and fees of requests for completed applications The Freedom of Information Act 1989 provides members of the public with a legally enforceable right to access documents held by the National Parks and Assessed costs Fees received Wildlife Service, subject to certain exemptions which are specified in the Act. All completed applications $4,130 $1,080 A summary of the applications processed and completed during the period 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001 is set out below. Section I – Discounts allowed A discount was allowed on one application on public interest grounds. Section A – Number of new Freedom of Information (FOI) applications Section J – Days to process Personal Other Total Elapsed time Personal Other New applications 1 16 17 0 – 21 days 0 11 Applications brought forward 0 1 1 22 – 35 days 0 4 Total to be processed 1 17 18 > 35 days 0 1 Total 0 16 Completed 0 15 15 Transferred out 0 0 0 Section K – Processing Time Withdrawn 0 1 1 Personal Other Total Total processed 0 16 16 0 – 10 hours 0 6 6 Unfinished (carried forward) 1 1 2 11 – 20 hours 0 0 0 21 – 100 hours 0 2 2 Section B – Results of FOI applications Total 0 8 8 Personal Other Total Granted in full 0 8 8 Section L – Reviews and Appeals Granted in part 0 5 5 Number of internal reviews finalised 0 Refused 0 3 3 Number of Ombudsman reviews finalised 1 Deferred 0 0 0 Number of appeals to the Administrative Decisions Tribunal 0 Completed 0 16 16

Section C – Ministerial Certificates The Ombudsman finalised an application in relation to staff grievances that There were no Ministerial certificates issued during the period. involved personal information of third parties. Through consultation and negotiation a final set of documents was released, with some requested documents Section D – Formal consultations remaining exempt under clause 6 of schedule 1 of the FOI Act – documents affecting personal affairs and documents containing confidential material. During the period there were 8 applications requiring consultations which led to approximately 30 formal consultations with third parties. Comparative statistics 1999-2000 2000-2001 Section E – Amendment of personal records FOI applications received During the period there were no applications for amendment of personal records. Personal 3 1 Other 20 16 Section F – Notation of personal records Applications brought forward There were no applications for notation of personal records during the period. Personal 0 0 Other 3 1 Section G – FOI applications granted in part or Decisions refused Full access granted 13 10 Access to documents was refused for three applications (all non-personal Partial access granted 3 5 applications), based on the following clauses in the FOI schedule: Access refused 4 3 Access deferred 1 0 • Clause 22 – failure to pay advance deposit within the time allowed Review of decision requested (2 applications) Internal review 4 0 • one application where the document requested did not exist Referred to Ombudsman 0 1 Referred to Administrative Decisions Tribunal Access was partially refused for five applications, based on the following clauses (previously District Court) 2 0 in the FOI schedule : • Clause 9 – internal working documents (1 application) • Clause 6 – documents affecting personal affairs (4 applications) 113 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix H New NPWS publications

Brochures and maps Newsletters and magazines New or revised park brochures were produced for: From Canvas to Cabins (newsletter for the Royal National Park cabin Blue Mountains National Park communities) Botany Bay National Park Gondwana magazine (2 issues) Dharawal State Recreation Area and Nature Reserve Kosciuszko Today (2 issues) Georges River National Park Napawi (2 issues) Gibraltar Range and Washpool National Parks (also covers Barool, On your doorstep (South Coast region neighbourhood newsletter) Butterleaf, Capoompeta, Nymboida, Ramornie National Parks and Northern Plains region nature reserves neighbourhood newsletter (2 issues) Mann River Nature Reserve) Oralis Mid-north Coast neighbourhood newsletter (3 issues). Mount Canobolas Olympic News (2 issues) Over the Fence newsletter for reserve neighbours and stakeholders in Northern Warrabah National Park Tablelands region Werrikimbe National Park Park Observer Illawarra/Nattai neighbourhood newsletter Perisher Resorts: moving forward (2 issues for Perisher lodge owners) Other park-related brochures: Resort Roundup (3 issues for Kosciuszko lodge owners) Currango Homestead (Kosciuszko National Park) Torrington State Recreation Area News for reserve neighbours Depot Beach (Murramarrang National Park) Woodland Wanderings newsletter of the Grassy Box Woodlands Conservation East Kunderang Homestead (Oxley Wild Rivers National Park) Management Network Fort Denison (Sydney Harbour National Park) Guided tours in around Sydney Posters National Parks around Tenterfield North Head Quarantine Station (Sydney Harbour National Park) Australian parrots (revision) Oxley Wild Rivers National Park: wild river walks Blue Mountains Pretty Beach (Murramarrang National Park) Helping frogs survive Riverside Wilderness Access NAIDOC week South Head (Sydney Harbour National Park) Smoky Cape Lighthouse (Hat Head National Park) Booklets Youdale’s Hut (Oxley Wild Rivers National Park) Access for All (guide to wheelchair-accessible areas in national parks of the Other brochures and maps: greater Sydney region, 2000) Best Bush (recreation map of the forests and parks of NSW, published with Armidale: Heart of New England (published in conjunction with Cartoscope, State Forests of NSW) 2000) Camping in national parks Birdwatching in Royal and Heathcote National Parks – what’s there and where to see it (by Steve Anyon-Smith, 2001) Dunphy Wilderness Fund Koalas in your backyard (on Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens endangered koala Coffs Harbour to Armidale Region Tourist Map (published in conjunction with population) Cartoscope, 2000) Myall Creek wattle (threatened species profile leaflet) Corporate Plan 2000-2003 (revision) Sweet myrtle (threatened species profile leaflet) Guide to NSW National Parks (revision) Sydney: city of national parks (map of parks of greater Sydney region) Pilaarrkiyalu of the Cobar Peneplain: Ngiyampaa traditional uses of plants and Topographic maps with threatened species for western NSW animals Yours to enjoy: discover the beauty of an annual pass Sydney: city of national parks (Olympic visitor guide) Threatened Species of the Lower North Coast of New South Wales Fact sheets Threatened species of the Lower North Coast of NSW Waterfall Way: New South Wales Scenic Drive (published in conjunction with Bertya sp. A Tourism NSW, 2000) Centralian Ranges rock-skink Wildlife Management Manual for the Riverine Plains (profiles of threatened Corroboree frog (revised) species and their habitats for landholders, 2000) Indonesian Rusa deer in Royal National Park Mountain pygmy possum (revised) Northern Tablelands Region Advisory Committee – your link with the NPWS Books and manuals Pest Species Fact Sheet No. 4 A Resource Worth Protecting (guide for licensed tour operators and tour guides) Rare Namoi and Gwydir Elseya tortoise Community Biodiversity Survey Manual (2nd edition, published with National Waratahs Parks Association of NSW) Wollemi pine (revision) 114 Appendix H

Reports NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2000) Land Systems of the Cargelligo and Narrandera Map Sheets within the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region. Arakoola Nature Reserve Schedule of Works, NPWS A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series NPWS, Sydney Belcher, C., Newsome, A. and Gifford, E. (2001) Tiger Quoll survey and assessment, NPWS NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2000) NSW Aboriginal Heritage of the Cobar Peneplain. A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Bolivia Hill Nature Reserve Draft Conservation Plan, NPWS Biogeographic Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series, Bonnett, M. and Swan, G. (2001) Survey for the Centralian Ranges Rock-skink NPWS, Sydney (Egerniamargaretae) in western NSW, NPWS, Sydney NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2000) Raising Community Awareness Byrne, D., Brayshaw H., and Ireland T. (2001) Social Significance: A discussion of Regional Conservation Assessments on the Cobar Peneplain. A Foundation for paper, NPWS, Sydney Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series NPWS, Sydney Carthew, S. and Cadzow, B. (2001) Survey for the Western pygmy-possum (Cercartetus concinnus) in NSW, NPWS Sydney NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Biodiversity Guide for NSW Local Government, NPWS, Sydney Connell Wagner (2000) Perisher Range Resorts: Environmental Study, NPWS NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Contribution of Sturt National Connell Wagner Pty Ltd (2000) Perisher Range Resorts: Transport and Access Park, Kinchega National Park and Mutawintji national Park to Regional Economic Review, NPWS Development, NPWS, Sydney Dangars Gorge, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, Activity Proposal, NPWS NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Fauna of Western NSW – Dick, R. (ed.) (2000). A Multi-faceted Approach to Regional Conservation The Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region. A Foundation for Conservation in Assessment in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region – An Overview. the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of Report Series NPWS, Sydney NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series, NPWS, Sydney NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Summary of results of Plains- Ecology Australia (2000) Vegetation Assessment of the Perisher Range Resort wanderer API mapping project 1999-2001, NPWS, Sydney Area, NPWS Porteners, M. F. (2001) Threatened plants in western New South Wales: Gara Gorge, Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, Activity Proposal, NPWS Information review NPWS, Sydney

Glen Innes Municipality Roadside Assessment of Native Vegetation, NPWS Roberts, I. (2001) Plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) – Habitat mapping including woody vegetation and other landscapes features Riverine Plains-NSW, Harris, B., James, D., Ohlsen, E., Griffiths, P. and Barker, C. (2000). Pilaarrkiyalu NPWS, Sydney of the Cobar Peneplain – Ngiyampaa traditional uses of plants and animals. A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of Robertson, P. (2001) The Western pygmy-possum (Cercartetus concinnus) in the NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series NPWS, Sydney Prungle area of south-western NSW 1999-2000, NPWS, Sydney

Hunter J. T. (2001) Survey and monitoring of Grevillea kennedyana in the wild Royal Botanic Gardens (2001). Threatened Flora in the south-west of New South NPWS, Sydney Wales, NPWS, Sydney

Hunter J. T. (2001) Threatened flora species in far north-western NSW Smart, J.M., Creaser, P. and Monaghan, D. (2000). Linking Conservation NPWS, Sydney Assessment and Aboriginal Ecological Knowledge on the Cobar Peneplain. A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of Hunter J. T. and Alexander J. (2001) Survey for Hakea pulvinifera: North and NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series, NPWS, Sydney north-west of Lake Keepit NPWS, Sydney Smart, J.M., Knight, A.T. and Robinson, M. (2000). A Conservation Assessment Jackson Teece Chestrman Willis (2000) Perisher Valley: Centre Village Precinct for the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region – Methods and Opportunities. Development Strategy, NPWS A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic Region of Mahony, M., Lane, S., Hamer, A. and Browne, R. (2001) Survey for Litoria NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series, NPWS, Sydney castanea in the Orange area NPWS, Sydney Vegetation and Floristics of Warra National Park, Bluff River Nature Reserve, Masters, P. and Foster, E. (2000) Investigating Fauna Distribution on the Cobar Bolivia Hill Nature Reserve, Gibraltar Nature Reserve, Currys Gap Crown Reserve Peneplain. A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic and Mount Mackenzie Nature Reserve, NPWS Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series NPWS, Sydney Von Richter L., Azzopardi, A., Johnstone, R., and Offord, C. (2001) Temperature Navin Officer Heritage Consultants (2000) Perisher Range Resorts Area: and light requirements for seed germination of Grevillea kennedyana F. muell., Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Study, NPWS NPWS, Sydney

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2000) Aboriginal Heritage of the Cobar Whiting, E. (2001) Threatened flora in the Riverina of NSW: a survey of recorded Peneplain. A Foundation for Conservation in the Cobar Peneplain Biogeographic sites, NPWS, Sydney Region of NSW – A Pilot Assessment – Report Series. NPWS, Sydney 115 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Appendix I Papers published by NPWS staff 2000-2001

Auld, T.D. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Understanding the ecological impacts English, A.J. (2000) An Emu in the Hole: Exploring the Link Between of fire regimes on plants and animals: a fire management tool. In ‘Red Biodiversity and Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in NSW, Australia. IUCN Parks trucks: Green Futures’, proceedings of a conference on ecologically Journal 10(2): 13-25. sustainable bush fire management, pp 48-54. Nature Conservation Council English, A.J. (2000) This Continent of Smoke: Analysing the Relationship of New South Wales Inc. Between Fire Management and Aboriginal Heritage in NSW. Published in the Auld, T.D., Keith, D.A. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Patterns in longevity of proceedings of the Red Trucks, Green Futures Conference, pp 55-65. soil seedbanks in fire-prone communities of southeastern Australia. Nature Conservation Council, Sydney. Australian Journal of Botany 48: 539-548. English, A.J. and Brown,. (2001) Biodiversity, Environmental Health and Auld, T.D. and Scott, J. (2000) Implementation of recovery plan for Grevillea Aboriginal People: Challenges for the NSW Planning System. caleyi. Final Report March 2000. Environment Australia Endangered Species Paper delivered at the I have a Cunning Plan Conference. Environmental Project No 456. Defenders Office, Sydney. Auld, T.D. and Denham, A.J. (2001) Predispersal seed predation in shrubs Evans, T. (2001) The American Way: Are there lessons for us? National Parks of Grevillea (Proteaceae) from south-eastern Australia. Australian Journal of Association Journal 45(1). Botany 49: 17-21. Evans, T. (2001) The Landsdowne Volcanics: New Reserves on the Comboyne Auld, T.D. and Denham, A.J. (2001) The impact of seed predation by and Lansdowne Escarpments. National Parks Association Journal 45(1). mammals on post-fire seed accumulation in the endangered shrub Grevillea Gibbons, P., Lindenmayer, D.B., Barry, S.C. and Tanton, M.T. (2000) caleyi (Proteaceae). Biological Conservation 97: 377-385. The effects of slash burning on the mortality and collapse of trees retained Auld, T.D. and Denham, A.J. (2001) Flora conservation issues at Kinchega on logged sites in south-eastern Australia. Forest Ecology and Management National Park, Western NSW. Cunninghamia 7(1): 27-41. 139: 51-61. Austin, M.P., Cawsey, E.M., Baker, B.L., Yialeloglou, M.M., Grice, Gibbons, P., Lindenmayer, D.B., Barry, S.C. and Tanton, M.T. (2000) D.J. and Briggs, S.V. (2000) Predicted vegetation cover in the central Hollow formation in eucalypts from temperate forests in south-eastern Lachlan region. Report to NPWS. CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, Canberra. Australia. Pacific Conservation Biology 6: 218-228. Briggs, S. V. (2001) Linking ecological scales and institutional frameworks for Gibbons, P. and Boak, M. (2001) The importance of paddock trees for landscape rehabilitation. Ecological Management and Restoration 2: 28-35. regional conservation in agricultural landscapes. A discussion paper for consideration by the Riverina Highlands Regional Vegetation Committee. Briggs, S.V., Seddon, J.A. and Thornton, S.A. (2000) Wildlife in a NPWS, Queanbeyan. Dry Lake and Associated Habitats in Western New South Wales. Rangeland Journal 22: 256-271. Gill, A.M. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Prescribed burning: Patterns and Strategies. In Proceedings of the 13th International Conference on Fire and Bushell R., Staiff, R. and Conner, N. The Contribution of Protected Areas to Forest Meteorology, October 1996, Lorne, Victoria, Australia. International Quality of Life in Rural and Regional Communities: Investigating the Role of Association of Wildland Fire, Washington. Nature-Based Tourism. Paper presented to Australian Association for Social Research Annual Conference, Wollongong, May 2001. Hamilton, C., Lunney, D. and Matthews, A. (2000) An economic evaluation of local government approaches to koala conservation. Byrne, D. (2000) Aboriginal graves in the post-invasion period in NSW. Australian Journal of Environmental Management 7: 158-169. In the Oxford Companion to Aboriginal Art and Culture, S. Kleinert and M. Neal (eds), pp 595-596. Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Hamilton-Smith, E. and Ramsay, A. (2001) Social and environmental evaluation at Jenolan Caves, New South Wales. Evaluation Journal of Christiansen, G. and Conner, N. eds. (2000) The Contribution of Australasia 1(1). Warrumbungle National Park to Regional Economic Development. NPWS, Sydney. Harrison, R. Challenging the authenticity of antiquity: contact archaelogy and Native Title in Australia. In Native Title and the Transformation of Christiansen, G. and Conner, N. eds. (2001) The Contribution of Sturt, Archaeology in the Postcolonial World, I Lilley (ed), pp 35-53. Oceania Kinchega and Mutawintji National Parks to Regional Economic Development. Publications, University of Sydney, Australia. NPWS, Sydney. Harrison, R. (2000) Nowadays with glass: regional variation in Aboriginal bottle Cohn, J.S. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Factors affecting post-fire seedling glass artefacts from Western Australia. Archaeology in Oceania 35(1): 34-47. establishment of selected mallee understorey species. Australian Journal of Botany 48: 59-70. Harrison, R. and Frink, D. (2000) The OCR Carbon Dating Procedure in Australia: new dates from Wilinyjibari rockshelter, southeast Kimberley, Cowling, R.M. and Pressey, R.L. (2001) Rapid plant diversification: Western Australia. Archaeology in Oceania 51: 6-15. planning for an evolutionary future. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 98: 5,452-5,457. Harrison, R. and Paterson, A. (2000) Workshop: the archaeology of culture contact in Australia and beyond. World Archaeological Bulletin 11: 119-127. Dickman, C. R., Lunney, D. and Matthews, A. (2000) Ecological attributes and conservation of native rodents in New South Wales. Wildlife Research Keith, D.A., Auld, T.D., Ooi, M.K.J. and Mackenzie, B.D.E. (2000) 27: 347-355. Sensitivity analyses of decision rules in World Conservation Union (IUCN) Red List criteria using Australian plants. Biological Conservation 94: 311-319. 116 Appendix I

Kingsford, R.T. (2000) Ecological impacts of dams, water diversions and river Monamy, V. and Gott, M. (2001) Practical and Ethical Considerations for management on floodplain wetlands in Australia. Austral Ecology Students Conducting Ecological Research Involving Wildlife. Australian 25: 109-127. Ecology 26: 293-300. Kingsford, R.T. (2000) Protecting rivers in arid regions or pumping them dry? Nicholls, A.O., Shaughnessy, P.D., Ross, G.A., Reynolds, W. and Hydrobiologia 427: 1-11. Briggs, S.V. (2000) Analysis of counts of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) from Cape Solander, New South Wales. Report to NPWS. Kingsford, R.T. (2000) Boom and bust cycles on Peery Lake. National Parks CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, Canberra. Journal (April). Oliver, D.L. (2000) Foraging behaviour and resource selection of the Kingsford, R.T. and Thomas, R.F. (2000) Changing water regimes and Regent Honeyeater Xanthomyza phrygia in northern New South Wales. wetland habitat on the Lower Murrumbidgee floodplain of the Murrumbidgee Emu 100: 12-30. River in arid Australia. Report to Environment Australia, 92pp. Pearce, J. and Ferrier, S. (2000a) An evaluation of alternative algorithms for Kingsford, R.T., Porter, J.L., Ahern, A. and Davis, S.T. (2000) Aerial fitting species distribution models using logistic regression. Ecological Surveys of Wetland Birds in Eastern Australia – October 1995-1999. NSW Modelling 128: 127-147. National Parks and Wildlife Service Occasional Paper No. 31. Pearce, J. and Ferrier, S. (2000b) Evaluating the predictive performance of Kingsford, R.T., Webb, G. and Fullagar, P. (2000) Scientific Review of habitat models developed using logistic regression. Ecological Modelling Duck Hunting Seasons in New South Wales. NPWS, 90pp. 133: 225-245. Lambert, D. (2000) Monitoring Rock Art. Paper presented at AURA Conference, Pearce, J. and Ferrier, S. (2001) The practical value of modelling relative Alice Springs. abundance of species for regional conservation planning. Biological Lockwood, M., Walpole, S.C. and Miles, C.A. (2000) Economics of Conservation 98: 33-43. remnant native vegetation conservation on private property, LWRRDC Pearce, J.L., Cherry, K., Drielsma, M., Ferrier, S. and Whish, G. Research Report 2/00. LWRRDC, Canberra. (2001) Incorporating expert opinion and fine-scale vegetation mapping into Lockwood, M. and Walpole, S.C. (2000) Economic assessment of remnant statistical models of faunal distribution. Journal of Applied Ecology native vegetation conservation, Australian Journal of Environmental 38: 412-424. Management 7(4): 237-245. Pharo, E.J., Beattie, A.J. and Pressey, R.L. (2000) Effectiveness of using Lunney, D. (2001) Causes of the extinction of native mammals of the Western vascular plants to select reserves for bryophytes and lichens. Biological Division of New South Wales: an ecological interpretation of the nineteenth Conservation 96: 371-378. century historical record. The Rangeland Journal 23: 44-70. Pressey, R.L., Hager, T.C., Ryan, K.M., Schwarz, J., Wall, S., Lunney, D., Curtin, A.L., Ayers, D., Cogger, H.G., Dickman, C.R., Ferrier, S. and Creaser, P.M. (2000) Using abiotic data for conservation Maitz, W., Law, B. and Fisher, D. (2000) The threatened and non- assessments over extensive regions: quantitative methods applied across threatened native vertebrate fauna of New South Wales: status and ecological New South Wales, Australia. Biological Conservation 96: 55-82. attributes. Environmental and Heritage Monograph Series No. 4, pp 1-132. Pressey, R.L. (2000) The end of conservation on the cheap, revisited. NPWS, Hurstville. In Conserving Nature’s Diversity: Insights from Biology, Ethics and Lunney, D., Dawson, L. and Law, B. (2000) A fauna survey of the Sydney Economics. G.C. van Kooten, E.H. Bulte and A.R.E. Sinclair (eds), pp 45-67. Olympics: the media profile and its symbolic significance. Australian Ashgate, Aldershot, England. Zoologist 31: 417-420. Pressey, R.L. and Cowling, R.M. (2001) Reserve selection algorithms and Lunney, D., O’Neill, L., Matthews, A. and Coburn, D. (2000) the real world. Conservation Biology 15: 275-277. Contribution of community knowledge of vertebrate fauna to management Reid, J.R.W. (2000) Threatened and declining birds in the New South Wales and planning. Ecological Management and Restoration 1: 175-184. sheep-wheat belt: II. Landscape relationships – modelling bird atlas data McCarthy, M.A., Gill, A.M. and Bradstock, R.A. (2001) Theoretical fire- against vegetation cover. Report to NPWS. CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, interval distributions. International Journal of Wildland Fire 10: 73-77. Canberra. Mac Nally, R., Soderquist, T.R. and Tzaros, C. (2000) The conservation Seddon, J., Briggs, S. and Doyle, S. (2001) Birds in woodland remnants of value of mesic gullies in dry forest landscapes: avian communities in the the central wheat/sheep belt of New South Wales. Report to the Natural Box-Ironbark ecosystem of southern Australia. Biological Conservation Heritage Trust. NPWS, Sydney. 93: 293-302. Soderquist, T.R. and Serena, M. (2000) Juvenile behaviour and natal Molsher, R., Gifford, E.J. and McIlroy, J.C. (2000) Temporal, spatial and dispersal in the chuditch Dasyurus geoffroii (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae). individual variation in the diet of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in central New Australian Journal of Zoology 48: 551-560. South Wales. Wildlife Research 27: 593-601. Soderquist, T.R. and Mac Nally, R. (2000) The conservation value of mesic gullies in dry forest landscapes: mammal populations in the Box-Ironbark ecosystem of southern Australia. Biological Conservation 93: 281-291. 117 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Walpole, S.C. and Lockwood, M. (2000) Catchment benefits of remnant native vegetation conservation, Natural Resource Management 3 (2): 10-17. Walpole, S.C. and Oliver, D.L. (2000) Observations of Glossy Black- Cockatoos Calyptorhynchus lathami feeding on the seeds of Bulloke Allocasuarina luehmannii. Australian Bird Watcher 18: 284-285. Whight, S. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Indices of fire characteristics in sandstone heath near Sydney, Australia. International Journal of Wildland Fire 9: 145-153. Williams, R.J. and Bradstock, R.A. (2000) Fire regimes and the management of biodiversity in temperate and tropical Eucalyptus forest landscapes in Australia. In Fire and Forest Ecology: Innovative silviculture and vegetation management, Tall Timbers Fire Ecology Conference Proceedings, No. 21, W.K. Moser and C.F. Moser (eds), pp. 139-150. Tall Timbers Research Station, Tallahassee. 118

Appendix J Overseas visits by NPWS staff 2000–2001

Brian Gilligan, Director-General, attended the Leadership Forum, World Dr Ross Bradstock, Principal Research Scientist, Biodiversity Research and

Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) at Tenerife in the Canary Islands from Management Division, undertook two overseas visits during the year. He attended: P Green 21-25 May, 2001. Costs were met by the NPWS. • the Mediterranean Ecosystems Conference (MEDECOS) in Stellenbosch, South Robin Nahum, IT Project Manager, Kerry Wellham, Senior User, and Brian Africa from 14-17 September 2000 to deliver a review paper Living with fire Armour, Asset Maintenance Systems Administrator, visited the Christchurch City and biodiversity at the urban edge: in search of a sustainable solution to the Council to assess the functionality and implementation of the SAP Plant human protection problem in southern Australia. Costs were met by the NPWS. Maintenance Module from 21-24 November 2001. Costs were met by the NPWS. • a workshop organised by Global Change in Terrestrial Ecosystems (GCTE) in Dr Denis Bryne, Manager Research Unit, Culture and Heritage Division, Valencia, Spain from 9-12 May 2001 and delivered a paper on application of attended the Belonging: Public Historians and Place conference in Ottawa, functional types to adapted systems for fire management. Costs were jointly Canada, in April 2000 to present a paper on current cultural heritage research at met by the NPWS, GCTE, and the Spanish, French and German governments. NPWS. Costs were met by the NPWS. Dr Bob Pressey, Principal Research Scientist, Biodiversity Research and Matt Cameron, Manager Threatened Species Unit, Western Directorate, Management Division, undertook three overseas visits during the year. He attended the Ecology Of Insular Biotas conference in Wellington, New Zealand attended: and also undertook associated field inspections from 12-16 February 2000. • a project group meeting in South Africa from 10 November to 3 December Costs were met by the NPWS. 2000 for continued collaborative work on conservation planning with the Graeme McGregor, Planning Coordinator for Northern Directorate and Mark University of Port Elizabeth and the University of Cape Town Institute for Johnston, Regional Manager, Northern Rivers, attended the Asia-Pacific World Plant Conservation. Specifically, this trip involved: (i) intensive work on a Heritage Managers workshop at Tongariro National Park in New Zealand from conservation plan for the Cape Floristic Region, a recognised global 26-30 October 2000. The workshop focused on world heritage managers from the biodiversity hotspot; and (ii) further editing work for a special issue of an Asia-Pacific sharing management issues and how they have been addressed. international journal describing the entire planning project. All costs were met Issues related to indigenous land owners, and presentation, promotion and by the Global Environment Facility. planning for world heritage properties were also discussed. Costs were met by • the WWF Global Forest Advisory Group meeting in Bali from 14-21 January the NPWS. 2001. Dr Pressey was invited to this meeting to present an outline of a Dr David Keith, Senior Research Scientist, attended an international workshop conservation planning manual that he is developing for WWF International. and meeting of the Extinction Risk Working Group on methods for classifying The meeting also involved discussions about the purpose and content of the species’ extinction risk, in Santa Barbara (USA), from 6-12 November 2000. manual with WWF staff involved in planning and managing forest protected Bulk of the costs were met by the US National Centre for Ecological Analysis and areas. All costs were covered by WWF International. Synthesis (NCEAS) and a portion of the cost was met by the NPWS. • a workshop and field reconnaissance trip to China from 2-12 April 2001. Terry Korn, Director Western, attended the Australasian Wildlife Management This trip was to initiate a case study associated with the NPWS consultancy Conference in Queenstown, New Zealand from 28 November-1 December. for WWF International. This involved a field reconnaissance trip to the study The conference focused on management of isolated populations for biodiversity region in south-west China followed by a workshop in Beijing with the project maintenance. Inspections of local National Parks were conducted with New team to discuss the application of Dr Pressey’s draft planning manual to the Zealand Conservation management. All costs were met by the NPWS. region. Once completed, the planning manual will assist the WWF’s field experts to extend protected area networks in many parts of the world. Dave Darlington, Regional Manager Snowy Mountains, visited Bhutan All costs were covered by WWF International. from 2-10 February 2000 as part of an environmental agencies delegation. The objective was to develop an MOU between the Royal Government of Bhutan Peter Shadie (supernumerary officer) continued his secondment to Geneva to and NSW to provide an ‘umbrella’ under which the State environmental agencies work with the World Conservation Union for four years assisting preparations for can pursue projects. A specific outcome relevant to the NPWS is an agreement to the 5th World Congress on Protected Areas. All major costs are being met by ‘twin’ Kosciuszko National Park to Jigme Dorji National Park. This MOU will be the NPWS. formalised by the respective Ministers later in 2001. All costs were met by the NPWS.

Geoff Luscombe, Regional Manager Blue Mountains, visited Vancouver, Seattle, Santa Anna, Los Angeles and Phoenix, from 15 June 2001 to 4 July 2001. The purpose of the trip was to conduct a sales mission with NSW Tourism to promote tourism in NSW; examine and discuss world heritage management issues with the Management of Grand Canyon National Park; and reinforce linkages between the US Park Service and the NPWS. Costs were met by the NPWS. 119 Financial statements7

Werrikimbe National Park 120

Financial statements 7for the year ended 30 June 2001

Pursuant to section 45F of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983, I state that: a. the accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983, the Financial Reporting Code for Budget Dependent Agencies, the applicable clauses of the Public Finance and Audit (General) Regulation 1995 and the Treasurer’s Directions; b. the statements exhibit a true and fair view of the financial position and transactions of the Service; and c. there are not any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate.

Michael Wright Acting Director-General 121 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT 122 Financial statements

Statement of financial performance for the year ended 30 June 2001

Actual Budget Actual Details Note 2001 2001 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Expenses Operating expenses Employee related 2(a) 123,892 116,883 115,943 Other operating expenses 2(b) 88,978 80,574 80,588 Maintenance 2(c) 15,244 25,635 15,985 Depreciation 2(d) 27,376 24,950 25,694 Grants and subsidies 2(e) 1,691 3,068 578 Other expenses 2(f) 336 – 693 Total Expenses 257,517 251,110 239,481

Less: Retained Revenue Sale of goods and services 3(a) 30,651 32,658 29,772 Investment income 3(b) 486 406 310 Retained fees and fines 3(c) 1,954 1,698 1,709 Grants and contributions 3(d) 16,206 11,594 14,444 Other revenue 3(e) 22,616 3,600 6,826 Total Retained Revenue 71,913 49,956 53,061 Gain/(Loss) on disposal of non-current assets 4 385 (100) 410 Net Cost of Services 185,219 201,254 186,010

Government Contributions Recurrent appropriation (net of transfer payments) 6(b) 168,733 165,135 161,008 Capital appropriation 6(c) 60,876 58,063 46,112 Asset Sale Proceeds transferred to the Crown Entity ––686 Acceptance by the Crown Entity of employee entitlements and other liabilities 8 12,155 12,513 11,102 Total Government Contributions 241,764 235,711 218,908 Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year 56,545 34,457 32,898

Non-Owner Transaction Changes in Equity Net increase(decrease) in asset revaluation reserve 20 (1,829) – 113,786 Total Revenues, Expenses and Valuation Adjustment Recognised Directly in Equity (1,829) – 113,786 Total Changes in Equity other than those resulting from Transactions with Owners as Owners 20 54,716 34,457 146,684

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 123 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2001

Actual Budget Actual Details Note 2001 2001 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 ASSETS Current Assets Cash 11 8,561 5,623 4,279 Receivables 12 17,295 7,863 8,013 Inventories 13 1,127 1,357 1,357 Other financial assets 14 16 16 16 Total Current Assets 26,999 14,859 13,665

Non-Current Assets Property, Plant and Equipment 15 – Land and Buildings 1,335,054 1,236,799 1,215,748 – Plant and Equipment 25,819 29,904 22,885 – Infrastructure Systems 491,044 446,830 441,787 Total Property, Plant and Equipment 1,851,917 1,713,533 1,680,420

Other 12 129 155 155 Total Non-Current Assets 1,852,046 1,713,688 1,680,575 Total Assets 1,879,045 1,728,547 1,694,240

LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Payables 17 5,331 5,501 5,651 Employee entitlements and other provisions 18 14,644 15,020 15,020 Total Current Liabilities 19,975 20,521 20,671

Non-Current Liabilities Interest bearing liabilities 19 700 –– Other 19 2 4 4 Total Non-Current Liabilities 702 4 4 Total Liabilities 20,677 20,525 20,675 Net Assets 1,858,368 1,708,022 1,673,565

EQUITY Reserves 20 232,155 233,984 233,984 Accumulated funds 20 1,626,213 1,474,038 1,439,581 Total Equity 1,858,368 1,708,022 1,673,565

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 124 Financial statements

Statement of cashflows for the year ended 30 June 2001

Actual Budget Actual Details Note 2001 2001 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Payments Employee related (118,881) (107,872) (107,382) Grants and subsidies (1,691) (3,068) (578) Borrowing Costs ––– Other (120,955) (106,509) (95,433) Total Payments (241,527) (217,449) (203,393)

Receipts Sale of goods and services 30,637 32,531 30,245 Retained fees and fines 1,954 – 2,375 Interest received 486 – 288 Other 41,721 17,575 15,629 Total Receipts 74,798 50,106 48,537

Cash Flows from Government Recurrent appropriation 168,733 165,135 161,085 Capital appropriation 60,876 58,063 46,112 Asset sale proceeds transferred to the Crown Entity ––– Cash reimbursements from the Crown Entity 6,808 3,502 3,498 Cash Transferred to Consolidated Fund ––(77) Net Cash Flows From Government 236,417 226,700 210,618 NET CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 25 69,688 59,357 55,762

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from the Sale of Land and Buildings, Plant and Equipment and Infrastructure Systems 671 1,900 1,364 Purchase of Land and Buildings, Plant and Equipment and Infrastructure Systems (66,775) (59,913) (51,758) Advances Made NET CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES (66,104) (58,013) (50,394)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from Borrowings and advances 700 –– Repayments of Borrowings and advances (2) –– NET CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES 698 ––

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH 4,282 1,344 5,368 Opening Cash and cash equivalents 4,279 4,279 (1,089) CLOSING CASH AND EQUIVALENTS 11 8,561 5,623 4,279

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 125 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Summary of compliance with financial directives for the year ended 30 June 2001

2001 2000 Recurrent Expenditure/ Capital Expenditure/ Recurrent Expenditure/ Capital Expenditure/ Appropriation net claim on Appropriation net claim on Appropriation net claim on Appropriation net claim on Consolidated Consolidated Consolidated Consolidated Fund Fund Fund Fund $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

ORIGINAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION/EXPENDITURE Appropriation Act 165,135 164,387 58,063 49,641 150,971 150,971 55,275 45,986 165,135 164,387 58,063 49,641 150,971 150,971 55,275 45,986

OTHER APPROPRIATIONS/ EXPENDITURE Treasurer's Advance 4,436 4,231 13,285 11,135 8,412 9,627 –– Section 22 – Expenditure for certain works and services ––––1,822 1,822 –– Transfers from another agency (section 26 of the Appropriation Act) 1,317 1,317 100 100 4,159 – 126 126 5,753 5,548 13,385 11,235 14,393 11,449 126 126

Total Appropriations/ Expenditure/net claim on Consolidated Fund (includes transfer payments) 170,888 169,935 71,448 60,876 165,364 162,420 55,401 46,112 Amount drawn down against Appropriation 169,935 60,876 162,420 46,112 Liability to Consolidated Fund ––––

The Summary of Compliance is based on the assumption that Consolidated Fund moneys are spent first. (except where otherwise identified or prescribed). The difference between total appropriations and actual expenditure for the year relate to NSW Treasury adjustments. The capital drawdown was fully spent. NSW Treasury gave approval for $10.572 million of the 2000/01 Capital Allocation being carried forward to future years. 126 Financial statements

Program statement – expenses and revenues for the year ended 30 June 2001

Program 1 Program 2 2001* 2000 2001* 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

AGENCY'S EXPENSES & REVENUES Operating expenses Employee related 18,725 17,524 16,529 15,468 Other operating expenses 11,138 10,088 9,831 8,904 Maintenance 450 472 397 417 Depreciation 493 463 435 408 Grants and subsidies 3 1 3 1 Other expenses –– –– Total Expenses 30,809 28,548 27,195 25,198

Retained Revenue Sale of goods and services 169 164 149 145 Investment income –– –– Retained fees and fines –– –– Grants and contributions 4,472 3,986 3,947 3,518 Other revenue 1,045 316 923 278 Total Retained Revenue 5,686 4,466 5,019 3,941 Gain /(loss) on sale of non-current assets NET COST OF SERVICES 25,123 24,082 22,176 21,257 Government contributions ** NET EXPENDITURE/(REVENUE) for the year 25,123 24,082 22,176 21,257

ADMINISTERED EXPENSES & REVENUES Administered Expenses Transfer Payments Administered Revenues Transfer Receipts Administered Revenue less Expenses –– ––

* The name and purpose of each program is summarised at Note 10 ** Appropriations are made on an agency basis and not to individual programs. Consquently, Government contributions must be included in the "Not Attributable" column. 127 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Program 3 Program 4 Not Attributable Total 2001* 2000 2001* 2000 2001 2000 2001 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

37,795 35,370 50,843 47,581 123,892 115,943 33,002 29,890 35,007 31,706 88,978 80,588 4,005 4,200 10,392 10,896 15,244 15,985 7,696 7,223 18,752 17,600 27,376 25,694 488 167 1,197 409 1,691 578 336 693 –– 336 693 83,322 77,543 116,191 108,192 ––257,517 239,481

1,803 1,751 28,530 27,712 30,651 29,772 473 302 13 8 486 310 1,459 1,276 495 433 1,954 1,709 5,680 5,062 2,107 1,878 16,206 14,444 13,147 3,968 7,501 2,264 22,616 6,826 22,562 12,359 38,646 32,295 ––71,913 53,061 385 410 385 410 60,760 65,184 77,160 75,487 ––185,219 186,010 241,764 218,908 241,764 218,908 60,760 65,184 77,160 75,487 (241,764) (218,908) (56,545) (32,898)

1,202 1,335 1,202 1,335

1,202 1,335 1,202 1,335 –– – – – – –– 128 Financial statements

Notes to and forming part of the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2001

Contents

Note 1 Summary of significant accounting policies 2 Expenses 3 Revenues 4 Gain/(loss) on disposal of non-current assets 5 Conditions on contributions 6 Appropriations 7 Individually significant items 8 Acceptance by the Crown Entity of employee entitlements and other liabilities 9 Transfer payments 10 Programs/activities of the NPWS Assets 11 Current assets – cash 12 Current/non-current assets/receivables 13 Current assets – inventories 14 Current assets – other financial assets 15 Non-current assets – land & buildings, infrastructure systems, and plant and equipment 16 Restricted assets Liabilities 17 Current liabilities – payables 18 Current liabilities – employee entitlements Equity 19 Non-current liabilities – other Other 20 Changes in equity 21 Increase/decrease in net assets from administrative restructuring 22 Commitments for expenditure 23 Contingent liabilities 24 Budget review 25 Reconciliation of net cash flows from operating activities to net cost of services 26 Financial instruments 129 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

1. Summary of significant accounting (c) Administered activities policies The NPWS administers, but does not control, certain activities on behalf of the Crown Entity. It is accountable for the transactions relating to those administered (a) Reporting entity activities but does not have the discretion, for example, to deploy the resources The National Parks and Wildlife Service, as a reporting entity, comprises all the for the achievement of the NPWS’s own objectives. operating activities and entities under the control of the NPWS. Transactions and balances relating to the administered activities are not The entity also encompasses funds which, while containing assets that are recognised as the NPWS’s revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, but are restricted for specific uses by the grantor, donor or under the National Parks and disclosed in the accompanying schedules as ‘Administered revenues’ and Wildlife Act 1974, are nevertheless controlled by the NPWS. ‘Administered expenses’. The NPWS has no ‘Administered assets’ or All internal transactions have been eliminated in the process of preparing the ‘Administered liabilities’. financial statements. The accrual basis of accounting and all applicable accounting standards have The reporting entity is consolidated as part of the NSW Total State Sector and as been adopted for the reporting of the administered activities. part of the NSW Public Sector Accounts Accordingly, transfer payments representing amounts received by the NPWS for transfer to the relevant entity are excluded from the primary financial statements (b) Basis of accounting but are disclosed in the notes to the financial statements (Note 9) and the The NPWS’s financial statements form a general-purpose financial report which Summary of Compliance with Financial Directives. has been prepared on an accrual basis and in accordance with: (d) Revenue recognition • applicable Australian Accounting Standards (AAS); Revenue is recognised when the NPWS has control of the goods or right to • other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards receive, it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the NPWS and the Board (AASB); amount of revenue can be measured reliably. Additional comments regarding the • Urgent Issues Group (UIG) Consensus Views; accounting polices for the recognition of revenue are discussed below. • the requirements of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 and Regulations; (i) Parliamentary appropriations and contributions from other bodies and Parliamentary appropriations are generally recognised as revenues when • Financial Reporting Directions published in the Financial Reporting Code for the agency obtains control over the assets comprising the Budget Dependent General Government Sector Agencies or issued by the appropriations/contributions. Control over appropriations and Treasurer under Section 9(2)(n) of the Act. contributions is normally obtained upon receipt of cash. Where there are inconsistencies between the above requirements, the legislative An exception to the above is when appropriations are unspent at year-end. provisions have prevailed. In this case, the authority to spend the money lapses and generally the In the absence of a specific Accounting Standard, other authoritative unspent amount must be repaid to the Consolidated Fund in the following pronouncements of the AASB or UIG Consensus View, the hierarchy of other financial year. As a result, unspent appropriations are accounted for as a pronouncements as outlined in AAS 6 ‘Accounting Policies’ is considered. liability rather than revenue. Except for certain land and buildings, plant and equipment, and infrastructure Any amount owing to the Consolidated Fund (except any liability in systems which are recorded at valuation, the financial statements are prepared in respect of transfer payments) is accounted for as a current liability. The accordance with the historical cost convention. All amounts are rounded to the liability would be disclosed as part of ‘Current liabilities – other’. The nearest one thousand dollars and are expressed in Australian currency in the amount would then be repaid and the liability would be extinguished in the statements. next financial year.

(ii) Sale of goods and services Revenue from the sale of goods and services comprises revenue from the provision of products or services, i.e. user charges. User charges are recognised as revenue when the NPWS obtains control of the assets that result from them.

(iii) Investment income Interest revenue is recognised as it accrues. 130 Financial statements

(e) Employee entitlements (h) Asset acquisition, valuation and revaluation policy (i) Wages and salaries, annual leave, sick leave and on-costs Assets are valued in accordance with Treasury policy guidelines. Except where Liabilities for wages and salaries, and annual leave, are recognised and they form an integral part of a network or facility (e.g. NPWS-wide radio network, measured as the amount unpaid at the reporting date at current pay rates picnic areas), all assets in excess of $5,000 are valued individually. Items below in respect of employees’ services up to that date. $5,000 are expensed. Unused non-vesting sick leave does not give rise to a liability as it is not The cost method of accounting is used for the initial recording of all acquisitions considered probable that sick leave taken in the future will be greater than of assets controlled by the NPWS. Cost is determined as the fair value of the the entitlements accrued in the future. assets given as consideration plus the costs incidental to the acquisition. The outstanding amounts of payroll tax, workers’ compensation insurance Unless otherwise stated, infrastructure assets and property included in the asset premiums and fringe benefits tax, which are consequential to employment, register for the first time, and on subsequent revaluation, are valued using the are recognised as liabilities and expenses where the employee entitlements written down replacement cost (WDRC) method. In determining WDRC, it was to which they relate have been recognised. assumed that the asset would be replaced by the most appropriate modern replacement asset with the same functional use. (ii) Long service leave and superannuation Infrastructure assets and property previously under construction which were The NPWS’s liabilities for long service leave and superannuation are completed and brought to account during the year have been valued at cost. assumed by the Crown Entity. The NPWS accounts for the liability as having been extinguished, resulting in the amount assumed being shown Other assets acquired at no cost, or for nominal consideration during the year, as part of the non-monetary revenue item described as ‘Acceptance by the were initially recognised as assets and revenues at their fair value at the date of Crown Entity of employee entitlements and other liabilities’. acquisition. Long service leave is measured on a nominal basis. The nominal method Fair value means the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between a is based on the remuneration rates at year-end for all employees with five knowledgeable, willing buyer and a knowledgeable willing seller in an arm’s or more years of service. It is considered that this measurement technique length transaction. produces results not materially different from the estimate determined by Land, Buildings, Roads and other access, Utilities and other infrastructure classes using the present value basis of measurement. of physical non-current assets are revalued every 5 years. As a result of the size The superannuation expense for the financial year is determined by using and nature of the NPWS’s assets this revaluation is conducted over a 5-year the formulae specified in the Treasurer’s Directions. The expense for period. The dates when such valuations were completed are detailed in the certain superannuation schemes (i.e. Basic Benefit and First State Super) following notes, and valuations were based on an independent assessment. is calculated as a percentage of the employees’ salary. For other Where assets are revalued upward or downward as a result of a revaluation of a superannuation schemes (i.e. State Superannuation Scheme and State class of non-current physical assets, the NPWS restates separately the gross Authorities Superannuation Scheme) the expense is calculated as a amount and the related accumulated depreciation of that class of assets. multiple of the employees’ superannuation contributions. The recoverable amount test has not been applied as the NPWS is a not-for-profit (f) Insurance entity whose assets service potential is not related to the ability to generate net cash inflows. The NPWS’s insurance activities are conducted through the NSW Treasury Managed Fund Scheme of self insurance for Government agencies. The expense • Land – dedicated (premium) is determined by the Fund Manager based on past experience and The land valuation takes into account the nature of the land, the legal restrictions industry benchmarks. The value of claims outstanding is determined by on its use, the opportunities for, and impediments to, development inherent in the expenditure incurred by the NPWS. land parcel, and any other constraints or special attributes pertaining to it, that is, (g) Accounting for the Goods and a ‘value in use’ basis. Services Tax (GST) Dedicated land (i.e. the NPWS’s national parks, nature reserves, historic sites and Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST, except: Aboriginal areas) was revalued by the State Valuation Office as at 1 July 1999. • the amount of GST incurred as a purchaser that is not recoverable from the Purchased land is carried at cost prior to dedication. The difference between cost Australian Taxation Office is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of an and dedication value is expensed. asset or as part of an item of expense Land transferred from other agencies at no cost, and awaiting gazettal, is reported • receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included. at fair value.

• Land – non-dedicated Non-dedicated land (off-park sites used for workshops or depots, etc) was revalued at market value as at 1 July 1999 by the State Valuation Office. 131 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

• Buildings and improvements (i) Capital and maintenance expenditure The NPWS’s buildings which are in use, or temporarily out of use, were revalued Details of labour, materials, contractor and other direct costs incurred on asset by the Australian Valuation Office as at 1 July 1996. construction projects, irrespective of funds source, are maintained for subsequent capitalisation into the NPWS’s asset register. The ‘Other amenities and facilities‘ asset class, comprising picnic areas, camping grounds, lookouts etc, was revalued by NPWS engineers as at 1 July 1999. (j) Assets not able to be reliably measured • Roads and other access The NPWS holds certain assets which have not been recognised in the Statement of Financial Position because the NPWS is unable to measure reliably the value Road valuations are based on region-specific standard costs derived by an NPWS of the assets. These assets are the flora and fauna in the parks held by the NPWS. engineer. These costings reflect the cost standards required to construct NPWS roads in specific geographic areas. Region-specific standard costs, similarly (k) Depreciation of non-current physical assets derived, have also been used to value walking tracks and car parks. The last valuation was conducted as at 1 July 1998. All non-current assets having a limited useful life are systematically depreciated over their expected useful lives in a manner that reflects the consumption of their Wharves in parks in the Sydney region were independently valued by the service potential. The straight line method is used to depreciate non-current Department of Public Works and Services as at 1 July 1998. assets.

• Utilities and other infrastructure Land is not depreciated on the basis that its service potential has not, in any material sense, been consumed during the reporting period. The asset class ‘Utilities and other infrastructure’, comprising water supply, sewerage and draining works, electricity reticulation and boundary fencing, was • Buildings and improvements revalued as at 1 July 1996. The construction type of NPWS buildings is used to determine the asset’s useful In determining replacement costs, NPWS management knowledge was used and life (from which a depreciation rate is derived). For example, historic buildings in standard costs were applied across regions. Items of a non-standard nature (e.g. use are deemed to have useful lives of between 40 to 100 years, visitor centres sea walls and water reticulation systems) were valued separately using internal and staff residences 40 to 80 years, etc. and external resources. (For example, major components of sewerage treatment plants in Kosciuszko National Park were independently valued by Department of • Roads and other access; utilities and other infrastructure Public Works and Services engineers). Except as indicated below, the following depreciation rates were adopted: • Plant and equipment – 2.5% for roads; car parks, fire trails and management tracks, walking tracks, ‘Plant and equipment’ is comprised of aircraft, motor vehicles, furniture and bridges, picnic areas, camping areas and lookouts. fittings and other plant and equipment and is at cost price. – 5% for boat ramps and wharves; utilities and other infrastructure. The NPWS’s aircraft were revalued as at 1 July 1996 by Bankstown Aviation Where bridges, boat ramps, wharves and utilities have been independently valued aircraft valuation specialists using market value. (Note 1(h), an assessment of the useful life of each asset was done concurrently. The depreciation rate was derived accordingly. • Furniture and fittings Historical items are valued at market value. The valuations were conducted by • Plant and equipment Tony Palmer Pty Ltd, registered antique valuer, as at 1 July 1996. Depreciation rates applied vary from 10% to 25% per annum. Other assets in this category have been valued at historic cost where available, (l) Maintenance and repairs with adjustments made for depreciation as calculated. The costs of maintenance are charged as expenses as incurred, except where they • Assets on leased land relate to the replacement of a significant component of an asset, in which case the Under certain leases granted by the NPWS, the lessee will maintain or improve costs are capitalised and depreciated. the leased property which, at the expiry of the lease, reverts to the ownership of (m) Leased assets the NPWS. Alternatively, where land is leased, property may be built on the land by the lessee and at the expiry of the lease, ownership of the property transfers to Operating lease payments are charged to the Statement of Financial Performance the NPWS. in the periods in which they are incurred. The NPWS has no finance lease arrangements. Assets and improvements are brought to account by the NPWS upon expiry of the lease when actual ownership and control eventuate. Upon assumption of (n) Investments ownership, the asset will be included in the NPWS’s asset register. Examples of Investments are valued at cost. Interest revenue is recognised as it accrues. such prospective assets include commercial buildings and infrastructure such as marinas and ski lifts (excluding associated plant and machinery) built by lessees on NPWS property. 132 Financial statements

(o) Receivables (u) Marine Parks Authority Receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice amount plus any The NPWS administers jointly with NSW Fisheries certain assets on behalf of the penalty interest less a provision for doubtful debts. An estimate for doubtful debts Marine Parks Authority. These assets are the areas covered by the three is made when collection of the full amount is no longer probable. Bad debts are established marine parks at Jervis Bay, Solitary Islands and Lord Howe Island. written off as incurred. NPWS capital equipment used for maintaining day-to-day operations of these three administered assets has been recognised and reported in accordance with (p) Inventories the NPWS’s Asset Acquisition and Valuation Policy (Note 1(h)). Generally, the quantum of inventory held is small. The NPWS relies on end-of- The operating costs incurred by the NPWS in administering these assets, which year stock takes to identify shop stocks for reporting purposes. Inventories are are included in the NPWS’s Statement of Financial Performance, were $741,750 measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Shop stocks held for 12 ($866,479 in 1999-2000). months or more, and considered to be unsaleable, are regarded as obsolete and are expensed. (v) 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and (q) Payables Paralympic Games The costs incurred by the NPWS in relation to the above are included in the These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the NPWS NPWS’s Statement of Financial Position; the total cost for 2000/2001 was and other amounts, including interest. Interest is accrued over the period it $1,529,000 ($499,000 in 1999/2000). The number of staff directly allocated to becomes due. Games activities was 11 equivalent full time staff (168 persons were directly (r) Interest-bearing liabilities involved). The total staffing costs was $554,000 ($281,000 in 1999/2000). All loans are valued at current capital value. (w) After balance date events (s) Reclassification of financial information Parramatta Regional Park will no longer be a controlled entity of the NPWS. The NPWS will be transferring a number of assets and liabilities during the As a result of applying AAS1 ‘Statement of Financial Performance’ and AAS36 ‘ 2001/2002 financial year to this new reporting entity. The net asset value of the Statement of Financial Position’, the formats of these Statements have been transfer is expected to be approximately $6,500,000. amended. As a result of applying these Accounting Standards, a number of comparative amounts were represented or reclassified to ensure comparability with the current reporting period.

(t) Budgeted amounts The budgeted amounts are drawn from the budgets as formulated at the beginning of the financial year and with any adjustments for the effects of additional appropriations, s21A, s24 and/or s26 of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983. The budgeted amounts in the Statement of Financial Performance and the Statement of Cash Flows are generally based on the amounts disclosed in the NSW Budget Papers (as adjusted above). However, in the Statement of Financial Position, amounts vary from the Budget Papers, as the opening balances of the budgeted amounts are based on carried forward actual amounts, i.e. per the audited financial statements (rather than carried forward estimates). 133 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

2. Expenses

a) Employee related expenses comprise the following specific items

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Salaries and wages* 101,234 94,888 Superannuation 8,576 7,505 Long service leave 3,193 3,244 Workers’ compensation insurance 1,865 2,137 Payroll tax and fringe benefits tax 8,951 8,142 Other 73 27 Total 123,892 115,943

* The salaries and wages item includes recreation leave expense. * Salaries and wages amounting to $1,789,000 ($911,385 in 1999/2000) have been capitalised. b) Other operating expenses comprise the following specific items Auditor’s remuneration (parent entity) 155 162 Auditor’s remuneration (controlled entities) 10 5 Bad and doubtful debts 16 (231) Operating lease rental expense (minimum lease payment) 7,564 7,366 Insurance 15,376 14,963 Fees 26,706 26,969 Utilities and services 6,520 5,924 Information services 643 574 Stores and stationery 6,741 4,858 Cost of sales 1,930 1,816 Motor vehicle and aircraft 3,600 2,531 Motor vehicle and aircraft hire 11,085 5,917 Travel and subsistence 2,966 2,708 Minor asset purchases 5,645 5,495 Other 21 1,531 Total 88,978 80,588

c) Maintenance Repairs and routine maintenance 15,244 15,985 Total 15,244 15,985

d) Depreciation expense Buildings and improvements 5,301 5,167 Roads and other access 12,805 12,227 Utilities and other infrastructure 2,920 2,797 Plant and equipment 5,830 5,039 Furniture and fittings 520 464 Total 27,376 25,694

e) Grants and subsidies comprise the following specific items Local government bodies – 1 Lord Howe Island Board 33 – Other 1,658 577 Total 1,691 578

f) Other expenses Metropolitan parks – 112 Marine parks 269 490 State recreation areas – 91 Other 67 – Total 336 693 134 Financial statements

3. Revenues

a) Sale of goods and services

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Annual and day entry 9,567 8,690 Lease and rental of premises 6,306 6,530 Camping fees 2,967 2,522 Miscellaneous fees 4,853 4,879 Minor user charges 368 244 Community service 2,501 2,671 Miscellaneous park service 370 253 Sale of assets under $5,000 115 307 Sale of publications & stock 2,347 2,487 Sale of manufactured goods 1,257 1,189 Total 30,651 29,772

b) Investment Income Interest 486 310 Total 486 310

c) Retained fees and fines Fees – licenses and permits 688 692 Fees – kangaroo and other royalties 1,005 724 Fines – parking, court and other 261 293 Total 1,954 1,709

d) Grants and contributions Funding was provided by the Commonwealth and State governments together with private and corporate sponsorships as follows (Note 5): Commonwealth 3,297 4,401 State 12,239 8,748 Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife 14 1,088 Miscellaneous sources 656 207 Total 16,206 14,444

e) Other revenue Contributed assets (Note 7) 5,519 2,415 Telephone rebate 562 615 Insurance recoveries 16,534 3,732 Miscellaneous 164 Total 22,616 6,826 135 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

4. Gain/(Loss) on disposal of non-current assets

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Proceeds from disposal 671 1,264 Written down value of assets disposed (286) (854) Net gain (loss) on sale 385 410

5. Conditions on contributions The NPWS receives grants for various purposes, e.g. restoration works or scientific research projects. No externally imposed financial restrictions are operable in respect of the NPWS’s assets (except cash) as a result of such grants. In the case of research grants, assets of an intangible nature (e.g. intellectual property) may ensue. Due to the valuation difficulties and immateriality, all costs incurred are expensed.

6. Appropriations (a) Recurrent appropriations

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Total recurrent drawdowns from Treasury (per Summary of Compliance) 169,935 162,420 Less: amount repaid to Consolidated Fund – 77 Total 169,935 162,343

Comprising: Recurrent appropriations (per Statement of Financial Performance) 168,733 161,008 Transfer payments 1,202 1,335 Total 169,935 162,343

(b) Capital appropriations Total capital drawdowns from Treasury (per Summary of Compliance) 60,876 46,112 Less: amount repaid to Consolidated Fund –– Total 60,876 46,112

Comprising: Capital appropriations (per Statement of Financial Performance) 60,876 46,112 Total 60,876 46,112

7. Individually significant items

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Contributed assets 5,519 2,415 Total 5,519 2,415

Contributed assets comprised the estimated fair value of land, buildings, roads and access utilities and other infrastructure transferred to the NPWS at no cost, and which did not arise from an ‘administrative restructure’. 136 Financial statements

8. Acceptance by the crown entity of employee entitlements and other liabilites The following liabilities and/or expenses have been assumed by the Crown Entity:

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Superannuation 8,286 7,303 Long service Leave 3,356 3,332 Payroll tax on superannuation 513 467 Total 12,155 11,102

9. Transfer payments

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife 50 50 Lord Howe Island Board 1,152 1,285 Total 1,202 1,335

Refer to Note 1 (c)

10. Programs/Activities of the NPWS

Program 1 – Program 37.1.1 – Conservation Assessment Objective: To achieve the use of rigorous and systematic policy, science and assessment as the basis for conservation planning and management in NSW.

Program 2 – Program 37.1.2 – Conservation Planning Objective: To improve the process for establishing conservation priorities for NSW to ensure integration of natural, cultural and community values, consultation and transparency and responsiveness to threats and to change.

Program 3 – Program 37.1.3 – Conservation Management Objectives: To work with Aboriginal communities to achieve the protection of the natural and cultural heritage. To enhance and improve the use of formal mechanisms outside the reserve system to achieve conservation outcomes. To manage parks and reserves in a culturally sensitive and ecologically sustainable way. To contribute to the environmental, social and economic well being of local and regional communities.

Program 4 – Program 37.1.4 – Conservation Facilitation Objectives: To work with the community to foster understanding and appreciation of, and commitment to, natural and cultural heritage. To increase community involvement in the management of natural and cultural heritage conservation in NSW. To enhance people’s enjoyment of the park system. To provide practical guidance and support for community conservation activities.

Program information The allocations disclosed in the ‘Program Statement – Expenses and Revenues’ are derived from staff surveys to attribute activities to programs. Where individual staff activities span more than one program, sample surveys were carried out to determine the most appropriate break-up. Non-staff costs and revenues were attributed to programs partly on the basis of the staff survey results and partly by an analysis of the type of activity or program involved. The NPWS’s program objectives have been redefined for 2000-2001. Amounts disclosed for 1999-2000 in the Program Statement – Expenses and Revenue have been recast to be comparable to the redefined program objectives. Volunteers assist the NPWS in a wide range of activities, including fire fighting, field and scientific research, guided tours, bush regeneration, weed control, and search and rescue. In accordance with Treasury advice, volunteer services have not been valued. An estimate of the cost of services received by the NPWS at no charge would prove unreliable as no detailed records are maintained on this type of assistance. Volunteer services are provided in furtherance of the four programs administered by the NPWS. The NPWS considers that cost apportionment across programs would not be practicable or cost justified. 137 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

11. Current assets – Cash For the purposes of the Statement of Cash Flows, cash includes cash at bank and cash on hand, short-term investments and bank overdraft. Cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the Statement of Cash Flows is reconciled to the related items in the Statement of Financial Position as follows:

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Current Cash at bank 8,459 4,186 Cash on hand 102 93 Closing cash and cash equivalents (as per Statement of Cash Flows) 8,561 4,279

12. Current/Non current assets – Receivables

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Current Sale of goods and services 3,328 1,415 Other debtors 13,534 5,804 Less: provision for doubtful debts (250) (208) Prepayments 683 1,002 Total 17,295 8,013

Debts written off during the year amounted to $16,140 ($605 in 1999-2000).

Non-current – Prepayments Carrying amount at start of year 155 182 Additions/new receivables –– Disposals/repayments (26) (27) Acquisitions through administrative restructures –– Other movements –– Carrying amount at end of year 129 155

13. Current assets – Inventories

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Finished goods – shop stocks (at cost) 1,127 1,357 Total 1,127 1,357

14. Current assets – Other financial assets

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Interest-bearing deposits 16 16 Total 16 16 138 Financial statements

15. Non-current assets – Land and buildings, infrastructure systems and plant and equipment

2001 2000 $’000 $’000

(a) Land At cost 30,540 23,210 At valuation 1,174,120 1,066,853 Total 1,204,660 1,090,063

(b) Buildings At cost 32,941 23,796 At valuation 206,766 205,374 239,707 229,170 Accumulated Depreciation at Cost 1,834 1,270 Accumulated Depreciation at Valuation 107,479 102,215 109,313 103,485 Total 130,394 125,685 Total Land and buildings 1,335,054 1,215,748

(c) Roads and other access At cost 86,998 58,361 At valuation 481,170 453,337 568,168 511,698 Accumulated depreciation at cost 2,460 13,770 Accumulated depreciation at valuation 117,486 92,711 119,946 106,481 Total 448,222 405,217 (d) Utilities and other infrastructure At cost 6,978 4,394 At valuation 75,492 67,472 82,470 71,866 Accumulated depreciation at cost 670 411 Accumulated depreciation at valuation 38,978 34,885 39,648 35,296 Total 42,822 36,570 Total Infrastructure systems 491,044 441,787 (e) Plant and equipment At cost 53,279 45,805 Accumulated depreciation at cost 30,903 26,216 Total 22,376 19,589 (f) Furniture and fittings At cost 5,795 5,128 Accumulated depreciation at cost 2,352 1,832 Total 3,443 3,296 Total Plant and equipment 25,819 22,885

Total Property, plant and equipment, Land and buildings, Infrastructure systems and Plant and equipment 1,851,917 1,680,420 139 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Reconciliations Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of each class of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current and previous financial years are set out below.

2001 Land and buildings Infrastructure systems Plant and equipment Total $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Carrying amount at start of year 1,215,748 441,787 22,885 1,680,420 Additions 17,466 36,379 9,432 63,277 Disposals (118) (87) (160) (365) Acquisitions through administrative restructures 102,467 27,620 – 130,087 Net revaluation increments less revaluation decrements (1,829) ––(1,829) Depreciation expenses (5,300) (15,726) (6,350) (27,376) Other Movements 6,620 1,071 12 7,703

Carrying amount at end of year 1,335,054 491,044 25,819 1,851,917

2000 Land and buildings Infrastructure systems Plant and equipment Total $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Carrying amount at start of year 1,092,503 427,320 21,780 1,541,603 Additions 12,925 28,871 7,213 49,009 Disposals (255) – (627) (882) Acquisitions through administrative restructures - - - - Net revaluation increments less revaluation decrements 113,754 - - 113,754 Depreciation expenses (5,145) (15,024) (5,503) (25,672) Other movements 1,966 620 22 2,608

Carrying amount at end of year 1,215,748 441,787 22,885 1,680,420

The NPWS holds certain assets which are not included in the financial statements as they cannot be measured reliably: see note 1(j). The NPWS holds a number of fully depreciated assets which still provide occasional or spasmodic use. The main categories involved are ‘Roads and other access’, ‘Buildings and improvements’, ‘Motor vehicles’ and ‘Plant and equipment’. The quantum of these fully depreciated assets is $21,800,553 ($18,462,240 in 1999-2000).

16. Restricted assets The NPWS has under its control a wide range of assets, such as historic buildings, dedicated land and specified sites, which are subject to restrictions as to their use by virtue of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. These restrictions include disposal of the asset or, under certain circumstances, exploitation for financial or economic gain. Additional restrictions may be brought to bear by the NPWS’s stakeholders as well as other legislation governing the use of historic sites and buildings.

17. Current liabilities – Payables

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Trade creditors 2,186 4,584 Sundry creditors 2,816 726 Security deposits 329 341 Total 5,331 5,651 140 Financial statements

18. Current liabilities – Employee entitlements

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Recreation leave 10,292 10,620 Accrued salaries and wages 4,352 4,400 Total 14,644 15,020

19. Non-current liabilities – Other

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Interest-bearing loan 700 – Interest-free loan 24 Total 702 4

The Treasurer approved a loan of $700,000 to the Parramatta Park Trust (a controlled entity) in accordance with the Cabinet Decision of 13 November 2000.

20. Changes in equity

Accumulated funds Asset revaluation Total equity

2001 2000 2001 2000 2001 2000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Balance at the beginning of the financial year 1,439,581 1,406,683 233,984 120,198 1,673,565 1,526,881 Changes in equity – transactions with owners as owner Increase/decrease in net assets from administrative restructuring (note 21) 130,087 130,087 –

Total 1,569,668 1,406,683 233,984 120,198 1,803,652 1,526,881

Changes in equity – other than transactions with owners as owners Surplus/(deficit) for the year 56,545 32,898 ––56,545 32,898 Increment/decrement on revaluation of: Land and buildings ––(1,829) 113,786 (1,829) 113,786 Infrastructure systems –––––– Plant and equipment ––––––

Total 56,545 32,898 (1,829) 113,786 54,716 146,684

Balance at the end of the financial year 1,626,213 1,439,581 232,155 233,984 1,858,368 1,673,565

21. Increase/Decrease in net assets from administrative restructuring

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Increase in net assets from ‘administrative restructuring’ 130,087 – Total 130,087 –

Land and infrastructure transferred from State Forests as part of the Southern Forests Comprehensive Regional Assessment. Value at $102.1 million and Crown Land $27.9 million. 141 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

22. Commitments for expenditure

(a) Capital commitments*

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Aggregate capital expenditure contracted for at balance date and not provided for: Not later than one year 244 1,559 Later than 1 year but not later than 5 years –– Later than 5 years –– Total (including GST) 244 1,559

(b) Other expenditure commitments* Aggregate capital expenditure contracted for at balance date and not provided for: Not later than 1 year 1,356 834 Later than 1 year but not later than 5 years –– Later than 5 years –– Total (including GST) 1,356 834

(c) Operating lease commitments* Future non-cancellable operating leases not provided for and payable: Not later than 1 year 9,799 8,357 Later than 1 year but not later than 5 years 18,239 18,622 Later than 5 years 5,836 8,114 Total (including GST) 33,874 35,093

Operating leases are for office accommodation, plant and equipment and motor vehicles. * As a consequence of the Goods & Services Tax (GST) a contingent asset of $3,224,861 ($1,099,000 in 1999/2000) is included in the commitments above. Represents commitments contracted for at balance date but not recognised in the statements as liabilities.

23. Contingent liabilities There are two claims for compensation for land acquired under the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991. The estimated cost to the NPWS, if any, will be determined by the Land and Environment Court in due course. In July 1997, a landslide occurred at the Thredbo Alpine Resort within Kosciuszko National Park resulting in the loss of life and property. As a result of the Coroners’ Inquiry, which found the NPWS, along with others, to have been at fault in relation to the Thredbo landslide, the NPWS has received claims for compensation. In June 2000, a fire occurred in the Ku-ring-gai National Park resulting in the loss of life. A Coronial Inquest is being undertaken into the events surrounding this incident. The NPWS has received notice of one civil claim for damages and may receive others. The NPWS may also be prosecuted by the NSW Workcover Authority. The NPWS has been advised that there may be a civil action for damages by the wife of a man killed by a falling tree limb in Myall Lakes National Parks. The EPA, in relation to a sewerage spill in Kosciuszko National Park, has prosecuted the NPWS. The Land and Environment Court of NSW will determine the amount of any likely fine. Proceedings have been commenced in the Industrial Relations Commission by a former employee for unfair dismissal. The matter has not yet been determined. The NPWS is engaged in a dispute with a contractor engaged on its behalf, who alleges he is owed approximately $800,000. Other than the above, the NPWS is not aware of any significant or material contingent liability in existence at 30 June 2001, or which has emerged subsequent to this date, which may materially impact on the financial position of the NPWS as shown in the Financial Statements. 142 Financial statements

24. Budget review

Net cost of services The actual net cost of services was lower than budget by $16.0 million due to following factors: • Actual expenses being over budget by $6.4 million due to the supplementation received under Section 26 of Public Finance and Audit Act. The budgets do not include supplementation received as Treasurer’s Advance. The NPWS also received extra funding from the Treasurer’s Advance, for such items as Salinity Strategy, Lane Cove additions, Southern Comprehensive Regional Assessment, Alpine Way and Kosciuszko roads, Maintenance Works, Risk Reductions & Assessment. • Actual revenue being $22.0 million higher than budget. This was primarily due to increased income from external grants, insurance recoveries and land received free of cost.

Assets and liabilities The major variance arose in non-current assets ($138.4 million) was due to the transfer of land and infrastructure in relation to the Southern Comprehensive Regional Assessment. The increase in receivables was mainly due to a larger number of insurance claims outstanding than in the previous year.

Cashflows The main variance in operating and investing activity relates to extra funding received from Government in the form of supplementation. This funding also resulted in increases in payments. In financing activities, a Treasurer’s loan of $700,000 was received which was not included in the original budget.

25. Reconciliation of net cash flows from operating activities to net cost of services

2001 2000 $’000 $’000 Net cash flows from operating activities (69,688) (55,762) Recurrent and capital appropriations 229,609 207,120 Depreciation 27,376 25,694 Contributed assets (5,519) (2,415) (Gain)/loss on sale of property, plant and equipment (385) (410) (Increase)/decrease in receivables (9,254) (2,973) (Increase)/decrease in inventories 230 31 (increase)/decrease in creditors 319 (425) Acceptance by Crown Entity of departmental liabilities 12,155 11,102 Increase/(decrease) in employee entitlements 376 3,362 Asset sale proceeds transferred to the Crown Entity – 686 Net cost of services 185,219 186,010 143 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

26. Financial instruments Financial Instruments give rise to positions that are financial assets or liabilities (or equity instruments) of either the NPWS or its counter-parties. These include cash at bank, investments, receivables, and accounts payable. Classes of instruments are recorded at cost and are carried at net fair value.

(1) Cash Cash comprises cash on hand and bank balances within the Treasury Banking System. Interest is earned on daily bank balances at the monthly average NSW Treasury Corporation (Tcorp) 11 am unofficial cash rate adjusted for a management fee to Treasury. The deposits at balance date were earning an interest rate of 4.00% (5.00% in 1999-2000) whilst over the year the average interest rate was 4.83% (4.25% in 1999-2000).

(2) Investments As at 30 June 2001, the NPWS held two fixed-term interest-bearing deposits to the value of $15,500 with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, with a maturity of less than one year. Deposits at balance date were earning an average interest rate of 4.73% (4.8% in 1999-2000) whilst over the year the average interest rate was 4.59% (4.1% for 1999-2000).

(3) Receivables All trade debtors are recognised as amounts receivable at balance date. Collectability of trade debtors is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectable are written off. A provision for doubtful debts is raised when some doubt as to collection exists. The credit risk is the carrying amount (net of any provision for doubtful debts). The carrying amount approximates net fair value. Sales are made on 30-day terms. Lease payments fall due 90 days after the issue of the invoice.

(4) Bank overdraft The NPWS does not have any bank overdraft facility.

(5) Trade creditors and accruals The liabilities are recognised for amounts due to be paid in the future for goods or services received, whether or not invoiced. Amounts owing to suppliers (which are unsecured) are settled in accordance with the policy set out in Treasurer’s Direction 219.01. If trade terms are not specified, payment is made no later than the end of the month following the month in which an invoice or a statement is received. Treasurer’s Direction 219.01 allows the Minister to award interest for late payment. No interest payments were awarded during the year.

End of Audited Financial Statements 144

Other financial information

Grants to community organisations Name of recipient NSW Wildlife Information and Rescue Service Incorporated (WIRES) Particulars of grants paid to non-government community organisations during the year are as follows: Amount $21,273 Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Name of recipient Native Animal Trust Fund historic heritage and regional park management Amount $5,000 Program Protection of conservation assets Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and historic heritage and regional park Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for management and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned protected native fauna Program Protection of conservation assets

Nature and purpose of the grant A grant to assist wildlife carers to rescue, care Name of recipient Wildlife Animal Rescue and Care for and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned Society Incorporated protected native fauna Amount $2,273

Name of recipient Organisation for the Research and Program Area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Rescue of Cetacea in Australia historic heritage and regional park Incorporated (ORRCA) management Amount $5,000 Program Protection of conservation assets Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for historic heritage and regional park and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned management protected native fauna Program Protection of conservation assets Name of recipient Blue Mountains Wildplant Rescue Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist ORRCA in meeting its Service costs in the rescue and observation of stranded whales and other marine mammals Amount $34,000 and associated research activities Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and historic heritage and regional park Name of recipient Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Service management Incorporated Program Protection of conservation assets Amount $5,000 Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue of native Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and flora. This is a pilot program. historic heritage and regional park management Name of recipient For Australian Wildlife Needing Aid Program Protection of conservation assets (FAWNA) Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for Amount $1,500 and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned Program Area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and protected native fauna historic heritage and regional park management Name of recipient Wildlife Aid and Rehabilitation, Program Protection of conservation assets Muswellbrook Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for Amount $1,500 and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and protected native fauna historic heritage and regional park management Program Protection of conservation assets Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned protected native fauna 145 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Name of recipient Foundation for National Parks and 2000-2001 major works Wildlife Project Cost to date Estimated Amount $50,000 $’000 completion Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Major new works historic heritage and regional park Sewerage upgrade program 4,537 2004-05 management Revitalisation of metropolitan parks 646 2004-05 Program Protection of conservation assets Eden Forest Agreement 200 2002-03 Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant approved by the Minister to Perisher Range redevelopment 50 2000-01 support the operations of the Foundation to Private land conservation program 401 2000-01 enable them to continue their fund raising Major works-in-progress activities to support NPWS conservation North East Forests Regional Forest Agreement 11,108 2001-02 projects, and assist NPWS promote natural New regional parks 1,670 2002-03 and cultural values. Aboriginal ownership legislation 835 2001-02 Prospect lower canal 977 2003-04 Name of recipient Great Lakes Wildlife Rescue Kosciuszko road works 42,335 2002-03 Amount $1,500 Thredbo landslip/Alpine Way 65,159 2001-02 Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Fire management 9,013 2001-02 historic heritage and regional park Land acquisition – open spaces 11,949 2002-03 management Pest species management 4,587 2001-02 Western Sydney/Rouse Hill regional parks 13,433 2001-02 Program Protection of conservation assets Perisher sewerage treatment plant 11,760 2001-02 Nature and purpose of the grant A cash grant to assist in the rescue, care for Regional parks 3,946 2001-02 and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned Establishment of Jervis Bay National Park 13,773 2002-03 protected native fauna Forestry restructuring – purchase of permissive occupancies 3,230 2001-02 Name of recipient Hunter Koala Preservation Society Parramatta Park visitors’ centre 956 2000-01 Amount $1,000 Computerisation Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and Information technology initiatives 3,650 2000-01 historic heritage and regional park Total 204,215 management There were no significant overruns in these projects. Program Protection of conservation assets Nature and purpose of the grant Employee liabilities A grant to assist wildlife carers to rescue, care Liabilities at 30 June 2001 were: for and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned protected native fauna • Long service leave $17.7 million ($16.1 million at 30 June 2000) • Recreation leave $10.3 million ($10.6 million at 30 June 2000) Name of recipient Lord Howe Island Museum Trust Amount $30,000 Program area Conservation of nature, Aboriginal and historic heritage and regional park management Program Protection of conservation assets Nature and purpose of the grant A grant to complete a project providing interpretation and communication of World Heritage values to visitors to Lord Howe Island. 146 Other financial information

Payment of accounts – performance Buildings and improvements indicators This category of assets includes all buildings and improvements in use or Trade creditor accounts payable balances each quarter for the financial year temporarily out of use. Buildings number some 888 in total. Buildings with a 2000-2001. replacement value of $1,000,000 or more are: • Audley District Office, Royal National Park Quarter Current Less than Between Between More than (ie within 30 days 30 and 60 60 and 90 90 days • Discovery Centre, Botany Bay National Park due date) overdue days days overdue • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre overdue overdue $$$$$• Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre, Morton National Park • Fort Denison, Sydney Harbour National Park September quarter 299,738 462,688 33,369 36,252 12,390 • Gap Bluff Officers’ Mess, Sydney Harbour National Park December quarter 272,349 234,700 61,148 15,846 14,944 • Goat Island Amenities, Sydney Harbour National Park March quarter 565,327 625,385 82,306 7,889 23,918 • Greycliffe House, Sydney Harbour National Park • Hartley Court House, Hartley Historic Site June quarter 1,688,518 1,515,161 200,415 63,923 78,280 • Jenkins Centre, • Laperouse Museum and Gallery, Botany Bay National Park In respect of trade creditor accounts paid on time, the performance of the NPWS • Long Tan Residences, Scheyville National Park in each quarter of the 2000-2001 financial year was as follows: • Quarantine Station, Accommodation Units and Conference Centre, Sydney Harbour National Park Total accounts paid on time Total • Sawpit Creek Office, Kosciuszko National Park amount paid • Snowy Mountains Visitor Centre, Jindabyne Quarter Target % Actual % $ $ • Throsby Park Homestead, Throsby Park Historic Site September quarter 85 92.18 27,752,363 30,106,708 • Far West Regional Office, Broken Hill December quarter 85 81.78 24,652,788 30,145,254 This category of assets also includes a number of heritage buildings in various March quarter 85 76.59 20,370,102 26,596,295 locations, such as: June quarter 85 83.78 42,721,919 50,992,981 • Bare Island • Goat Island The main reasons for delay were: • Hartley Historic Site i) minor purchase (usually under $10,000) not in contract where short – 7 or 14 • Hill End Historic Site day – payment terms were indicated on the invoice (but not prior to invoicing) • Quarantine Station, Manly and no payment discounts were involved; • Rodd Island ii) invoices issued (often in the case of computer equipment ) prior to delivery or In addition to buildings, this asset category includes such ‘improvements’ such as installation; and picnic areas, campsites and lookouts. Major picnic areas and campsites (with a replacement value of $750,000 or more) are located in Blue Mountains, Booti iii)unsatisfactory supply or some other complication which tend to be more of a Booti, Botany Bay, Cattai, Ku-ring-gai Chase and Sydney Harbour national parks, factor with the more significant and expensive purchases. as well as in Arakoon State Recreation Area, Parramatta Regional Park and Initiatives implemented to improve payment performance: Western Sydney Regional Park. a) On-line purchase order entry and issue; Roads and other access b) Increased use of corporate credit cards for local and minor purchases. Apart from roads of various construction, this category of assets includes access Late payment of accounts facilities such as fire trails, walking tracks, car parks and bridges which are NPWS responsibilities. Roads and other access with a replacement value of The NPWS was not required to pay interest to creditors due to the late payment of $3,000,000 or more are: accounts during the year. • Alpine Way, Kosciuszko National Park Major assets • Elliot Way, Kosciuszko National Park • Fire Trail, Yathong and Nombinee nature reserves By virtue of its functions, NPWS’s asset base covers a wide range of fixed assets • Geehi Walls Track, Kosciuszko National Park and other infrastructure which have been categorised as follows for accounting • Guthega Road, Kosciuszko National Park purposes. • Kiandra to Khancoban Road, Kosciuszko National Park Land • Mungo Brush Road, Myall Lakes National Park • Port Phillip Road, Kosciuszko National Park Most of the land parcels in this category of assets are ‘dedicated land’ which • Tantangara Road, Kosciuszko National Park includes national parks, nature reserves, historic sites and Aboriginal areas. • Tweed Scenic Drive, Border Ranges National Park A full list of dedicated and NPWS managed lands is included at Appendix A. • Walls Road, 147 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Utilities and other infrastructure Major assets in this category of assets include electricity reticulation, sewage systems, levees and fences. Assets with a replacement value of $1,000,000 or more include sewerage treatment plants in Kosciuszko National Park and water supply systems in Sydney Harbour National Park.

Motor vehicles

Table of motor vehicles by location – 2000-2001

Location Sedans Station 4WDs 0-2 tonne 2-5 tonne 5 tonne Bus/van Motor Total wagons truck truck truck cycles Head Office 15 12 23 2 –––557 Central Directorate 20 45 127 5 29 20 3 16 265 Southern Directorate 20 12 135 10 19 16 – 21 233 Western Directorate 4 5 93 – 5 11 1 47 166 Northern Directorate 13 16 149 – 22 19 – 22 241 Total 72 90 527 17 75 66 4 111 962

Aircraft NPWS owns and operates three aircraft: • a twin-engine, turbo-prop Rockwell Aerocommander 690 • a single engine Cessna 206U • an Aerospatiale AS340 Squirrel helicopter Plant and equipment This category of assets consists of a variety of plant (such as graders, rollers, tractors and mowers) and a wide range of equipment. Examples include workshop equipment (such as welders, chainsaws, generators and gantries), radio systems, and fire fighting and search and rescue equipment as well as computer equipment, photocopiers and airconditioning units. NPWS radio systems, computer installations and Head Office PABX system are the most major items of equipment.

Motorised plant by location – 2000-2001 Location Tractors Graders Caravans Trailers Boats Other Total Head Office ––3 – 115 Central Directorate 27 5 3 18 11 66 130 Southern Directorate 16 1 5 12 7 54 95 Western Directorate 24 6 1 13 1 14 59 Northern Directorate 40 3 2 20 15 65 145 Total 107 15 14 63 35 200 434

Stores and stationery expenditure 2000-2001 Month $ Month $ July 238,347 January 444,203 August 234,123 February 333,428 September 288,259 March 430,976 October 354,000 April 380,732 November 216,873 May 765,848 December 291,086 June 928,714 Total 4,906,589

Annual report 1500 copies of this 2000-2001 report were printed at an estimated cost of $9.66 per copy including GST. 148

Index of statutory requirements

Access and contact information 149 Advisory committees 79, Appendix B Aims and objectives 8 Annual report costs 147 Auditor-General’s opinion 121 Charter 8 Chief and senior executive officers Appendix E Consultants Appendix D Partners and stakeholders 8 Customer service 69, 70, 71 Disability plan 53, 71 Environmental performance 49 Equal employment opportunity 83, 108 Ethnic affairs policies and strategies 29, 75 Executive officer’s statement of performance Appendix F Financial statements Audited 120 Unaudited 144 Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife 90 Freedom of information Appendix G Funds granted to non-government organisations 144 Human resources 82 Industrial relations policies and practices 83 Insurance 86 Legal changes 8 Letter of submission to Minister 5 Major assets 146 Major capital works 145 Membership of statutory bodies and significant committees 102 Monetary amount of leave entitlements 140 Nature and range of activities 8 Occupational health and safety 83 Organisation chart 10 Overseas visits Appendix J Payment of accounts 146 Performance indicators throughout Personnel policies and practices 82 Privacy management plan 88 Publications Appendix H Research papers Appendix I Risk management 85 Spokeswomen’s program 83 Statement of affairs Appendix G Stores and stationery 147 Structure 8, 10 Threatened species 39, 48, 75 Wilderness 16, 36, Appendix A 149 2000 2001 ANNUAL REPORT

Contact information

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

General inquiries National Parks Centre 102 George Street, The Rocks, Sydney PO Box N429, Grosvenor Place, Sydney 1220 Phone: 1300 361 967 or (02) 9253 4600 Fax: (02) 9251 9192 Email: [email protected] Web site: www.npws.nsw.gov.au

Head Office 43 Bridge Street PO Box 1967 Hurstville NSW 2220 Phone: (02) 9585 6444 Fax: (02) 9585 6555

Central Directorate Level 1, 10 Valentine Avenue Parramatta NSW 2150 PO Box 95 Parramatta NSW 2124 Phone: (02) 9895 7420 Fax: (02) 9895 7414

Northern Directorate Level 4, 49 Victoria Street PO Box 97 Grafton NSW 2460 Phone: (02) 6641 1550 Fax: (02) 6643 4730

Southern Directorate 6 Rutledge Street PO Box 733 Queanbeyan NSW 2620 Phone (02) 6297 6144 Fax: (02) 6299 6858

Western Directorate 48-52 Wingewarra Street PO Box 2111 Dubbo NSW 2830 Phone: (02) 6883 5330 Fax: (02) 6884 8675