Wetlands Australia NATIONAL WETLANDS UPDATE 2004
ANNUAL UPDATE FOR AUSTRALIA’S WETLAND COMMUNITY
“We are delighted to receive this award which recognises THE WETLANDS the tireless efforts of our many volunteers. It is a privilege to be rewarded for work we all enjoy so much” said Tara.
CENTRE: The Wetlands Centre was presented with a cheque for $7 000 from the National Australia Bank to go towards the STATE WINNER IN NATIONAL organisation’s activities at a State presentation ceremony VOLUNTEER AWARDS held at the Centre in November 2003. Two representatives from the organisation attended the In November 2003, the National Australia Bank was National Volunteer Awards Ceremony on 5 December delighted to announce The Wetlands Centre in Shortland 2003, where they competed against six other State/ is the NSW State winner of the National Volunteer Awards Territory finalists in their category for the National in the ‘Environment, Conservation, Heritage & Animal Award. The national award was presented to Birds Welfare’ category. Australia Gluepot Reserve, South Australia. The prestigious title was awarded to The Wetlands Centre Fantastic Work for its on-going commitment to the preservation of its community’s natural landscapes. The National Australia Bank’s Executive General Manager, Financial Services Australia, Ian MacDonald said the The National Volunteer Awards are an initiative of the National Volunteer Awards attracted thousands of entries National Australia Bank and comprise nine categories - art from around the country and acknowledged the fantastic and culture; children and families; community service and work of volunteers within our local communities. There development; education, training and youth were more than 2 700 community groups nominated for development; emergency and safety; environment, this year’s Awards. conservation, heritage and animal welfare; health and well-being; rural and regional development; and sport and About The Wetlands Centre recreation. Established in 1985 as the first centre for wetlands According to Tara Ure of The Wetlands Centre, winning conservation and education in Australia, The Wetlands the award is a great honour and highlights the Centre has grown to become a part of the Hunter Estuary tremendous contribution its volunteers make to the local Wetlands Ramsar site (a Wetland of International community. Importance), and is home to over 200 species of birds, frogs and other water loving creatures. Below: Dipnetting at The Wetlands Centre; photograph courtesy of: The Wetlands Centre The Wetlands Centre plays a local, national and international leadership role in the conservation of wetlands and in educating about wetland management practices. The Centre welcomes 200 schools each year through the Department of Education’s environmental program, and TAFE and University students also use the site for a practical training ground.
The Centre adds equally significant value to the social fabric of the Hunter Region and beyond. It offers recreational facilities for visitors and provides excellent opportunities for the local community by training over 150 volunteers each year, making it a true haven for wildlife and people.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 1 2003: WETLANDS CONTENTS NEWS Revive Our Wetlands ...... 3
Integrating Wetlands into NRM Regional Planning Welcome to the 2004 edition of Wetlands Australia, and Implementation Processes ...... 5 highlighting what’s been happening in wetlands Monitoring ‘Wetlands with Tails’ ...... 6 conservation, management and education across Australia during 2003 as well as looking forward to 2004. Clarence Landholders ...... 8
From an Australian Government perspective the last 12 Great Barrier Reef Wetlands ...... 9 months have been particularly busy. Australia has made Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps...... 10 the transition from the first phase of the Natural Heritage Trust to the second phase, focusing on natural resource Ramsar Communication ...... 13 management at a regional level. Community, non- government and government groups have been busy Cross-Border Approach: Barmah-Millewa ...... 14 completing phase one NHT projects and making the most The Living Murray...... 17 of opportunities provided by the second phase to implement many on-ground conservation activities. NRM “Hop in and Help Manly Lagoon” Project ...... 18 Facilitators have been appointed across Australia and are Banrock Station Wetlands Complex...... 20 keen to work with regional bodies and community groups to prepare and implement regional NRM plans and World Wetlands Day 2004...... 24 investment strategies. Townsville Town Common ...... 27 2003 saw the list of Australian Ramsar sites increase to 64, Fish Unlimited ...... 28 with the designation of the NSW Central Murray State Forests Ramsar site. This site includes the Millewa Forest Mangroves and Saltmarshes...... 30 and Koondrook-Perricoota Forest, which mirror the Barmah Forest and Gunbower Forest Ramsar sites on the Painted Snipe ...... 32 Victorian side of the River Murray. These sites form the The Spatial Ecology of Waterfowl ...... 33 largest complex of tree-dominated floodplain wetlands in southern Australia. Living Wetlands Fund ...... 34
As you will read, three wetland conservation groups have Murray-Darling Basin’s Wetlands ...... 36 been recognised for their ongoing wetlands conservation Shorebird Conservation Project ...... 38 and management efforts. I would like to extend my congratulations to The Wetlands Centre, Manly Protecting Australia’s Ramsar Wetlands ...... 39 Environment Centre and Revive Our Wetlands for their fantastic on-ground works for which they have received AWIN ...... 40 awards during 2003. Their work is an inspiration to all of us seeking to conserve and enhance Australia’s wetlands. PUBLICATION & These are just some of the successes in 2003. Of course there are many wetland conservation and management activities being undertaken across Australia and only a DESIGN small proportion of these are reported on here. I hope you will find this national update both interesting and Produced by the Australian Government Department of informative, and it inspires you to continue to care for and the Environment and Heritage for the Australian Wetlands appreciate our wetlands. Information Network (AWIN).
If you would like to tell your story in the next edition of Editor and designer: Alison Beard, Inland Waters Section, Wetlands Australia, or have any feedback on this edition, Department of the Environment and Heritage please contact us on (02) 6274 1111. ISBN 0642549656
Theo Hooy Acting Assistant Secretary Coasts and Water Branch Department of the Environment and Heritage
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 2 WHEN BIRDS OF UNCOMMON FEATHER FLOCK TOGETHER REVIVE OUR WETLANDS
Author: Warren McLaren, Conservation Volunteers Above: Monitoring at Goolawah Lagoon; photograph courtesy of: Australia Conservation Volunteers Australia
Swamps, lagoons, and saltmarshes are fascinating places Not only were significant on-ground works achieved but for ‘birdos’ to hang out. Here avid birdwatchers can the profile of wetlands around the country was lifted with observe an incredibly wide variety of avian life, all going over 300 press articles and radio interviews. A newsletter about their business in the same place. was distributed to 1 200 people quarterly each year. Over 100 endorsements were received from BHP Billiton It seems apt then that wetlands should be the meeting personnel through to environmental experts. Indeed, over ground for two enterprises that are not necessarily 500 staff from BHP Billiton enthusiastically contributed expected to be sighted in the same locale - a conservation their time and energy to receiving a practical wetland organisation and a multinational resource manager. But that’s where Conservation Volunteers Australia and BHP Billiton have combined, in a highly successful The program’s success became a benchmark for Business- partnership, known as Revive Our Wetlands. Community Partnerships in Australia. In December 2002 Revive Over the last three years more than $2.5 million worth won the National Large Business category of the Prime of assistance and over 17 000 volunteer days have Ministers Award for excellence in Community Business contributed to the revitalisation of 100 of Australia’s Partnerships. In July of 2003 Revive was also awarded the most significant wetlands. Projects have been carried National Partnership of the Year in the Financial Review out in a range of locations such as the remote Watarrka Magazine 2003 Corporate Partnership Awards. Rock Holes in the Northern Territory, and the metropolitan wilds of the Melbourne Wildlife Sanctuary. education. Following Revive involvement, 50 local Revive, with the assistance of thousands of committed conservation groups indicated they were in a position to volunteers, has achieved significant environmental continue work on maintaining sites. More than $900 000 outcomes. While the final few months of projects still of funding assistance was secured for a portion of the need their data checked, we know that as at May 2003 selected 100 Revive sites, in addition to the support Revive had controlled 678 hectares of weeds, removed 460 provided by BHP Billiton. This amounted, on average, to bags of rubbish and 300 kilograms of carp, erected 60 an extra two weeks of practical work for every week that kilometres of fencing, and constructed and maintained 39 Revive had funded. kilometres of track/boardwalk. The program planted 173 000 stems while propagating 30 000 more plants and Huge credit needs to be given to many dedicated local collecting 115 kilograms of seed. Many surveys have community environment groups who seized upon the been undertaken including 96 flora and fauna surveys and opportunities offered through Revive and were able to 11 water surveys. Additionally a good quantity of bird leverage its support to increase local involvement and hides, nesting boxes, rock crossings, stick islands, pig attract other external funding. Without the commitment of traps, such motivated individuals and groups, the Australian information landscape would be a poorer place. shelters, Looking back over the program, one of the lessons learnt visitor was that wetland sites, that received concentrated efforts, facilities not only prospered environmentally but also had and increased uptake in community involvement. This local interpretive ownership of wetlands was deemed highly valuable, and signage was demonstrated by the efforts of community volunteers were at the Townsville (QLD) and Illawarra (NSW) sites. Find erected. out more about the Townsville site on page 27. Left: University of Wollongong students at Tom Thumb Lagoon; photograph courtesy of: Conservation Volunteers Australia
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 3 Looking forward, the future Revive program will differ BHP Billiton officially launched Revive our Wetlands for from the initial three years. Revive will continue to make a the next three years (2004-2006) at The Revive Gala difference to important wetlands across Australia and will Dinner, Minerals Council Association Conference in make a substantial commitment to assisting community Brisbane during November 2003. efforts at 10 priority locations across remote, regional and For further information visit the Revive website at urban Australia. The 10 significant wetlands or Focus www.reviveourwetlands.net Sites will benefit from continuing Revive assistance over the next three years, and although not fully confirmed at the time of writing, are expected to include the sites such as the Beeliar wetland system in the midst of suburban Perth and the remarkable “Ned’s Corner” on the River Murray between Mildura and Adelaide.
Working in concert with these 10 Focus Sites, funding will be available for smaller scale projects at worthy wetland sites. Priority for the allocation of support for these sites will be based on the ability of local land managers and community groups to commit to a level of outcomes greater than could be achieved by Revive volunteer teams alone. It is imperative that the assistance provided through Revive act as a catalyst for deeper engagement in conservation of the selected sites.
David Clark, Chairman, Conservation Volunteers Australia noted that “This strategic investment by BHP Billiton into a critical part of our ecology, the kidneys of the land, will ensure our wetlands continue to function effectively, thanks to the actions to be undertaken by Conservation Volunteers”. Above: Bird watching at Wonga Wetlands, The program has provided lessons for all involved. It NSW; photograph provided BHP Billiton with stronger community courtesy of: relationships, as practical evidence of their commitment to Conservation Volunteers Australia corporate social responsibility. For Conservation Volunteers Australia it enhanced an ability to develop effective corporate partnerships that could facilitate the goal of engaging volunteer teams to undertake practical on-ground conservation works.
Above: Dusk at Tom Thumb Lagoon Wetland, NSW; Photographer: Daniel Deighton
Left: Bryan’s Swamp and the Black Swamp in Victoria receive a much needed revival; photograph courtesy of: The Hamilton spectator
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 4 The package provides information about national wetland INTEGRATING priorities, integration of wetlands into regional planning, availability of wetland data for regional planning, useful WETLANDS INTO websites, networks and contacts. We have also developed a Resource CD, which contains some useful resources, including policy documents, databases, NRM REGIONAL reports and case studies of how particular regional communities have sought to balance freshwater PLANNING AND conservation objectives with sustainable production and other uses. IMPLEMENTATION There are also maps included within the CD, for all NHT regions, showing the location of all Ramsar and nationally PROCESSES important wetlands identified in A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia. Ramsar site boundary spatial data are supplied by the relevant jurisdictions and is likely to have a higher level of accuracy than the location of Author: Australian Government Department of the Directory wetlands, with the exception of nearly all Environment and Heritage Queensland sites, which is derived from a continental Responsibilities of the Inland Waters Section of the coverage produced at 1:250 000 scale. Most regions have Australian Government Department of the Environment multiple maps to indicate the location of wetlands. and Heritage (DEH) include developing coordinated If you would like copies of the documents please visit our national policy responses for the conservation of website www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands. We would Australia’s wetlands, especially freshwater ecosystems. appreciate feedback in due course on the usefulness of This is undertaken in close cooperation with the Coastal the package to allow for updating and possibly wider Policy Section and other parts of the Department, other distribution. Please do not hesitate to contact our Australian Government agencies, State/Territory Wetlands Team on (02) 6274 1111 or Government agencies, non-government organisations and [email protected] with any queries and community stakeholders. suggestions and we look forward to a productive working The Australian Government has specific responsibilities relationship in this exciting period of sustainable NRM under international treaties such as the Ramsar program delivery. Convention on Wetlands, and national environment legislation, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) for protecting and managing the biodiversity of important freshwater ecosystems and species dependent on those ecosystems.
These responsibilities can only be effectively Integrating wetlands into implemented however through collaboration with the NRM regional planning and natural resource management bodies working on-ground. implementation processes In this regard, the Government will use its National Action INFORMATION PACKAGE Plan for Salinity and Water Quality (NAP) and Natural FOR FACILITATORS Heritage Trust (NHT) investments to fund regional projects and activities that address priority salinity, water quality and biodiversity issues, including protection and restoration of significant freshwater, marine and estuarine ecosystems.
To assist regional natural resource management (NRM) bodies, we are identifying national policy and priorities for wetlands that can be used to guide regional planning processes and the design and delivery of regional activities and projects.
As a starting point, we have developed a short information package that can be used by facilitators to familiarise regional and local stakeholders with some of the national imperatives for freshwater and wetland conservation arising from our obligations under the 1 Ramsar Convention. Above: Integrating wetlands into NRM regional planning and implementation processes information package
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 5 MONITORING ‘WETLANDS WITH TAILS’: SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION AT DALHOUSIE SPRINGS, WITJIRA NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Above: Main pool of Dalhousie Springs; Photographer: Michaela Birrell Author: Michaela Birrell, Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia The purpose of the monitoring and survey program was In July 2003, 40 scientists and volunteers set up camp at to gather information on: Dalhousie Springs in the Witjira National Park, South Australia, to undertake an ambitious survey and • the impacts of Date Palms on springs; monitoring program. • visitor impacts at the Dalhousie Main Pool;
Witjira National Park is on the western edge of the • grazing pressure (from both native and feral species) Simpson Desert in the far north of South Australia and around water sources in the Park; one of the main reasons for establishing the Park was to protect and rehabilitate more than 70 thermal springs in • rare rodent populations; the Dalhousie Springs Complex. The springs (which are • evidence of Marsupial Mole (Notoryctes typhlops); often referred to as Great Artesian Basin springs) and the Witjira National Park are unique and spectacular for many • the abundance of feral animals (aerial survey); reasons. Firstly, the Park is managed jointly by the Lower Southern Arrernte, Wangkangurru, Arabunna and Luritja • the effects of weed control programs; and people and the South Australian Department for • to rediscover Kowari (Dasycercus byrnie) populations in Environment and Heritage. The joint management habitats identified in historic records. agreement for the Park provides the advantages of a shared approach to the land which accommodates While the evening swims in the Dalhousie Main Pool traditional Aboriginal uses together with environmental were quite luxurious (around 37 degrees Celsius), the management, and tourism and recreational activities. days were full of hard work including mapping the very Secondly, the springs are fed by pressurised water from spiky Date Palms, checking hundreds of mammal traps the Great Artesian Basin which lies under 20 percent of early each morning, diligently collecting water chemistry Australia’s land mass (including parts of SA, QLD, NSW data three times a day and traipsing through dense and NT). The flow of water in the Dalhousie Main Pool vegetation and mud to collect aquatic invertebrates. alone is approximately 220 litres per second, which Participants also sorted invertebrates in a ‘shed-based sustains an impressive permanent wetland in this desert lab’, re-fenced some experimental exclosures, measured landscape. Thirdly, the Great Artesian Springs support the profiles of the spring pools from a boat, counted feral wildlife that is not found anywhere else in the world. animals along transects from a small aeroplane and Witjira National Park is a great place to see endemic measured vegetation cover at the edges of pools and species of fish, plants and invertebrates and to see a down the spring ‘tails.’ diversity of bird species that seems improbable for such The ‘tails’ are formed by plants and animals colonising an isolated location. Additionally, the gibber, sand dunes, the watercourses that are created by water flowing over stony tablelands and floodplain country in the Park the mounds that surround some of the springs. In provide habitat for unique, and often shy, mammals and situations where a spring does not have a pool, water reptiles. seeps out of the ground directly forming a ‘tail’. Some of The monitoring and survey work, in winter 2003, was a the tails gently wind their way across the white, dolomitic huge collaborative project with participants from the limestone for more than 10 kilometres. The dominant tree Scientific Expedition Group, students from the University species in the tails, and surrounding the pools, is the of South Australia and Flinders University, and staff from inland Paperbark (Melaleuca glomerata) and the Witjira Western Mining Corporation, the South Australian National Park gets its name from a Lower Southern Departments for Environment and Heritage and Water, Arrernte Aboriginal word referring to the paperbarks Land & Biodiversity Conservation and Primary Industries fringing the springs. and Resources.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 6 Analysis of the data collected during the Expedition is The recommendations from the 2003 Expedition will be still underway, however some of the key findings include: presented to the Park Managers and an ongoing monitoring program will be developed. A trial for removing • excellent recovery of native plants since the Park was some mature Date Palms is planned for targeted areas in proclaimed in 1985 and in response to feral animal control which the infestations are threatening the ecology of the (including the effects of the Rabbit-Calicivirus Disease); springs. However, the Park Managers will retain large • hundreds of Date Palm seedlings are establishing at the stands of Date Palms near the Dalhousie Ruins and at Dalhousie Springs; other important sites in the Park in recognition of their cultural, historical and aesthetic importance for these • some smaller springs have completely dried up where ‘oases in the desert’. there are heavy infestations of Date Palms; The people involved in the survey and monitoring • a threatened plant (Eleocharis geniculata) is recovering program and the managers of the Witjira National Park well after the redesign of the main campground; thank the Arid Areas Catchment Water Management • discovering a Planigale (small marsupial) population at Board and Western Mining Corporation who provided the Dalhousie Main Pool; financial assistance for the survey and monitoring work in 2003. • capturing the nationally vulnerable Plains Rat (Pseudomys australis) near Mount Crispe;
• presence of Marsupial Mole east of Purnie Bore;
• capturing Gidgee Skink (Egernia stokesii) at 3 O’Clock Creek; and
• sighting a Centralian Striped Skink (Ctenotus saxatilis) – distinctive form.
Below: Monitoring the water depth and turbidity at Dalhousie Springs; Photographer: Michaela Birrell
Right: Setting a malaise trap at Dalhousie Springs; Photographer: Michaela Birrell
The springs in the Witjira National Park form part of a Nationally Threatened Ecological Community (listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) that spans across sections of South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. The ecological community is called the ‘community of native species dependent on natural discharge of groundwater from the Great Artesian Basin’. In 2004, a recovery plan will be written for this ecological community and the Queensland Herbarium will coordinate the project. For more information on the springs that are included in this ecological community and to see a map of the location of the springs, refer to www.deh.gov.au/biodiversity/ threatened/communities/index.html.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 7 CLARENCE LANDHOLDERS: A BALANCING ACT BETWEEN PRODUCTIVE GRAZING AND A HEALTHY WETLAND
Author: Cassie Burns, Wetland Care Australia
Wetland Care Australia is currently running a 12 month Farms, Fish and Floodgates Extension program Above: Waterbirds enjoying wetlands along the Clarence River; (FFFX), funded by the NSW Environmental Protection Photographer: Cassie Burns Agency’s Environmental Trust. The project team, Cassie Burns and Bob Smith have been working with landholders Mr Martin and Ms Gordon have combined cell grazing, and the community to manage and protect wetlands in the wet and dry pasture species and wetlands to provide the Richmond, Clarence and Macleay catchments on the perfect combination for grazing cattle and habitat for north coast of NSW. The program aims to establish ducks. They are limiting grazing in their wetland demonstration sites of wetland management in each paddocks, which reduces the mobilisation of acid in the catchment. soil by keeping the wetland ‘wet’ and well vegetated, and Clarence cattle farmers Michael Martin and Margaret reduces soil damage such as pugging. These paddocks Gordon are leading the way in floodplain wetland are grazed only in dry times, when they produce high management. Part of their property occupies 304 hectares quality wet pasture species and are of highest benefit to of the Broadwater wetlands (the total area being 1 200 the cattle. hectares), which consist of Paperbark swamp, reed beds They also manage a ‘no graze’ area of the wetland that is and wet pasture species such as Soft Rush (Eleocharis in need of rehabilitation. This area will be allowed to species) and Water Couch (Paspalum distichum). naturally regenerate before being reviewed to see if any The Broadwater wetlands are listed in A Directory of further rehabilitation, such as weed control or planting, is Important Wetlands in Australia and provide important necessary. native fish and waterbird breeding and feeding habitat. Wetland Care Australia and the landholders have applied They are home to the nationally endangered Little Tern for Envirofund assistance, under the Natural Heritage (Sterna albifrons), the State listed Black-necked Stork Trust, to continue to manage their portion of the (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) and more than a dozen Broadwater Creek wetlands. The project will concentrate migratory bird species protected under the Japan- on reducing acid mobilisation, improving natural flows Australia and China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreements and enhancing waterbird and fish habitat. The funding (JAMBA and CAMBA respectively). will be announced late 2003, and works are planned for early 2004.
If you would like any further information on wetland management please phone Project Officer, Cassie Burns at the Ballina Office of Wetland Care Australia on (02) 6681 6069 or email [email protected].
Left: Habitat within the Clarence River catchment; Photographer: Cassie Burns
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 8 Wetland loss through clearing and drainage for GREAT BARRIER agricultural purposes has increased levels of sediment and fertiliser entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. The REEF WETLANDS sediment smothers coral, and the phosphorous and nitrogen in fertiliser runoff can promote algae growth that competes with coral. The combination of increased PROTECTION sediment and fertiliser runoff restricts coral growth and reproduction. The majority of the sediment and fertiliser PROGRAMME loads enter the reef lagoon during and following floods. Near-shore reefs bordering the wet tropics and Whitsundays are most affected by runoff and are at Author: Australian Government Department of the greatest risk of further damage. Environment and Heritage Wetland conservation is important to protect the Great The Queensland and Australian Governments have Barrier Reef and its $4 269 million tourism industry. agreed that to protect the Great Barrier Reef, a high Wetlands are also vital for the reef’s $359 million fishing priority is to stabilise and reverse the decline in water industry. Wetlands act as nurseries for approximately 70 quality entering the reef lagoon. In May 2003, the percent of the reef’s commercial and recreational fisheries. Australian Government announced a Wetlands Protection Programme to enhance wetland protection in the Great Barrier Reef catchments. The Great Barrier Reef Wetlands Protection Programme (GBRWPP) will implement key actions in the Queensland and Australian Government’s Reef Water Quality Protection Plan.
The programme has been developed in response to concerns regarding the potential damage to the Great Barrier Reef caused by the loss of wetlands along the Queensland coast. The area of wetlands in the Great Barrier Reef catchment has decreased by over 50 percent since European settlement.
One of the first activities under the Great Barrier Reef Wetlands Protection Programme will be to identify wetlands that provide significant wildlife habitat and contribute to water quality in the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. The focus of the program will then switch to working with land owners and managers to protect significant wetlands, including through individually tailored voluntary conservation agreements and incentive packages, to protect and restore significant wetlands. Conservation agreements could include a range of management activities such as fencing, weed control and re-establishing riparian vegetation.
For more information on the Great Barrier Reef Wetlands Above Right: Wetlands similar to this one situated near Cooktown, have Protection Programme, contact Veronica Blazely, been extensively cleared and drained for pasture development and sugar cane production Department of the Environment and Heritage on (02) 6274 2255. Above: Floodwaters in Maria Creek carry a large sediment and nutrient load to the GBR lagoon near Innisfail For information on the Reef Water Quality Protection Both photographs courtesy of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Plan phone 1800 803 772. A copy of the plan is available Authority at www.deh.gov.au/coasts/pollution/reef/index.html.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 9 FIVEBOUGH AND TUCKERBIL SWAMPS
WETLANDS THAT ARE PUBLIC LANDS MANAGED FOR NATURE CONSERVATION BY A Above: Fivebough Swamp; Photographer: Mike Schultz COMMUNITY ORGANISATION Though the naturalness of the wetlands has been altered since White’s time, mainly due to the influences of past Author: Mike Schultz, Chair, Fivebough and Tuckerbil agricultural practice and urban development, they remain Wetlands Management Trust an important part of the region’s landscape, for nature Background to Wetland of International Importance conservation and human use.
Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps are Crown Land During the late 1970’s Fivebough Swamp became known located within the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, 4 for its birdlife among local birdwatchers. Since then, both kilometres north east and 10 kilometres north west of Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps have become widely Leeton, NSW. Fivebough Swamp is 400 hectares and has recognised as bird watching areas. permanent water in the southwest portion of the basin, In 1995, as a part of the Murray-Darling Basin Waterbird and a seasonal shallow, fresh-brackish wetland in its east Project, Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps were and northwest. Tuckerbil Swamp is 289 hectares and is a surveyed. Through this activity it was realised that the seasonal, shallow, brackish-saline wetland. Swamps were worthy of recognition as Wetlands of Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps have long been known International Importance under the Convention on for their diversity and abundance of waterbirds. One of Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) because of species 2 the earliest to recognise the wetlands conservation values diversity, and high numbers of some waterbird species . was South Australian ornithologist S.A White. In 1920, In October 2002, the Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands White reported to the Commissioner of the Murrumbidgee Management Trust successfully nominated Fivebough Irrigation Areas that Fivebough Swamp should be and Tuckerbil Swamps for designation as a Wetland of proclaimed a sanctuary, and Tuckerbil Swamp was a good International Importance under the Convention on 1 site for a reserve . Wetlands3.
Wetlands Management Organisations
Leeton Shire Council during 1995-97 considered proposals for the development of the eastern portion of Fivebough Swamp as a recreational lake. Leeton Shire Council shelved such proposals in early 1997. Post this decision the Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists, with the advice of the then NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation (DLWC), commenced management of Fivebough on 1 September 1997.
In 1997 the Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists were granted funding from the NSW State Wetland Advisory Committee (SWAC) and Natural Heritage Trust (NHT) to identify management options and implement restoration programs for the wetlands. The Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists successfully completed both projects in 1998 and 2001 respectively. They further developed management options4 and completed substantial on- ground works, such as planting 10 000 local native trees Above: Sharptailed Sandpipers at Fivebough Swamp; and shrubs, constructing 4 kilometres of pathways, 5 Photographer: Mike Schultz kilometres of fencing, car parks and an interpretive centre for visitors.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 10 Vegetation and Water Management
During its four years of management the Trust has reintroduced grazing to some management areas of Fivebough, and maintained existing grazing regimes at Tuckerbil. Allowing cattle to graze within sections of the wetlands is a conservation management tool, providing and maintaining habitats for some species of waterbird, such as migratory waders. Management areas leased for grazing are subject to special conditions developed by the Trust to protect and enhance habitats for waterbirds.
Within Fivebough there are management areas where no grazing by domestic animals occurs. These areas are Above: Sunset at Fivebough Swamp; Photographer: Mike Schultz either being revegetated, or allowing regeneration to provide habitats for cryptic species such as Crakes and In 2000, the Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists passed on the Bitterns, or feeding habitat for Egrets. management of the wetlands to the Fivebough and The entire area of Tuckerbil and the majority of Tuckerbil Wetlands Management Trust. The Trust is an Fivebough are managed as ephemeral (non-permanent) incorporated not-for-profit community body, and wetlands. The remainder of Fivebough Swamp’s wetland membership is open to any person or organisation with an area is permanent, which is maintained with treated water interest in the wetlands. Its membership includes Leeton from the Leeton sewage treatment plant. The Trust, with urban community, landholders, local Wiradjuri the assistance of a grant from the NSW SWAC, is representatives, industry, local government, State currently fencing parts of the permanent wetland area of agencies, Murrumbidgee Irrigation, Charles Sturt Fivebough, to allow grazing outside this area. University, and Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists. The timing, volume, and control of water for Tuckerbil The Trust with financial assistance from the World Wide Swamp and Fivebough Swamp’s ephemeral area depends Fund for Nature developed its Management Plan for on seasonal conditions and water entering the wetlands Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps 2002 (MPFT). Among from June to December each year. Water is mainly rainfall the MPFT objectives are waterbird conservation, runoff from within their catchments. The agreement for education and eco-tourism, and acknowledgment and provision of water to the wetlands is between respect for the cultural significance of the sites to local Murrumbidgee Irrigation and the Trust, as part of the Wiradjuri people. management plan.
Above: Leeton Public School; Photographer: Mike Schultz
Above Right: Leeton Lions Club assisting with tree planting; Photographer: Mike Schultz
Right: Murrumbidgee Field Naturalist assisting with on-ground work at Fivebough Swamp; Photographer: Mike Schultz
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 11 The Trust and Leeton Shire Council have repaired and Summary built banks for embayment of water and installed water The Trust today manages the wetlands in accordance regulation infrastructure to control water flows - all of with its wetlands management plan, knowing there is still which gives the ability to manage water for waterbirds. much to put into effect in the years to come. This Birds of Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps management is implemented in accordance with protecting the Ramsar values for which the wetlands are A total of 159 species of birds have been recorded at recognised. Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps. The wetlands are renowned for the waterbirds that inhabit the area. There Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands Trust contacts are 86 waterbird and associated wetland species, of For further information please contact: which 24 species are listed under the Japan-Australia and China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA and • Mike Schultz, phone: (02) 6953 2541 or email: CAMBA respectively). [email protected]
The wetlands are also important habitat for the • Phil Green: phone (02) 6953 0700 or email: Australasian Bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus) and [email protected] Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis). Tuckerbil is also an important flocking area for Brolga (Grus rubicunda).
Above: A healthy Fivebough Swamp, 2003; Photographer: Mike Schultz
Left: Fivebough Swamp in 1997 before conservation works; Photographer: Mike Schultz
1 White S. A. 1920 Ornithological Survey of Murrumbidgee Irrigation Areas, report to the Commissioners of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Areas.
2 Hutchison M. 1995 The Latest News from the Murray-Darling Basin Waterbird Project. Basin Bird Observer No. 6. December 1995. RAOU (Birds Australia) MDBC.
3 Schultz M., Brett P., Phillips B., & Green P. 2002 Information on the Ramsar Wetlands. Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands Management Trust.
4 Glazebrook H. & Taylor I. R. 1998 Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps; a review of their history, conservation values and future management options. Report No. 105, Charles Sturt University, The Johnstone Centre, Albury.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 12 RAMSAR Having received NHT funding to implement the HRCS for 12 months, a Project Officer has now COMMUNICATION been appointed and the work is underway. Thirty- six key actions have been identified for A KEY STRATEGY IN THE implementation over this period, including: HUNTER REGION, NSW • Hosting an annual wetlands forum; • Developing and supporting a regional Ramsar email network; Author: Tara Ure, Chief Executive Officer, The Wetlands Centre • Promoting a Ramsar advisory and referral service;
In November 2002, the Kooragang Nature Reserve Ramsar • Developing a Ramsar-ready presentation for site was extended to include The Wetlands Centre. The speaking engagements throughout Australia; site has been renamed the Hunter Estuary Wetlands • Touring a Ramsar display; Ramsar site. As part of the nomination process for the inclusion of The Wetlands Centre in the Ramsar site, the • Promoting wetlands plants; Centre developed a number of key documents including • Distributing Ramsar information kits and the Hunter Ramsar Communication Strategy (HRCS). factsheets via Landcare Resource Officers;
Below: The Wetlands Centre at Shortlands; photograph courtesy • Developing a Ramsar Ready Package and training of: The Wetlands Centre for volunteer guides;
• Holding free activities on World Wetlands Day for the community;
• Extending the Migratory Shorebirds project;
• Distributing a national brochure of Wetland Education Centres, under Wetlands Link International - Australia (production is currrently funded under the NHT); and
• Promoting staff exchanges with other regions and education centres.
Since 1986, The Wetlands Centre has been a leader in wetland education and a demonstration model of community involvement in wetland management. Indeed The HRCS is a culmination of input from various community volunteers have worked over 190 000 hours community groups, government agencies, staff and and planted some 38 000 natives on the site in the past 18 volunteers. The Ramsar Convention’s Programme on years. It is a non-government organisation dedicated to Communication, Education and Public Awareness 2002- wetland research, education, conservation, recreation and 2008 (Resolution VIII.31) encourages Contracting Parties wise use. The aims of The Wetlands Centre have always to focus on education and community involvement in the closely reflected those of the Ramsar Convention. The wise use of wetlands. In Australia the Australian HRCS continues this connection. Wetlands Information Network (AWIN) developed the The implementation of the HRCS will consolidate Wetlands Communication, Education and Public expertise in the Hunter, add value to The Wetland Awareness (CEPA) National Action Plan 2001-2005, to Centre’s existing implement the Convention’s CEPA programme. The programs and build National Action Plan underpins the HRCS. The further capacity for strategy development was part of a Natural Heritage community based Trust (NHT) funded project to develop a community- education in the based Regional Ramsar Information Service reflecting Region. needs in the Hunter Region. This strategy is consistent with international, national and state level For further objectives for conservation and wise use of information, visit wetlands. It serves as a model that could be The Wetland replicated in other regions in Australia. Centre’s website (www.wetlands.org.au). Right: Children feeding Magpie Geese at The Wetlands Centre; photograph courtesy of: The Wetlands Centre
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 13 In the early 1990s, the Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial CROSS-BORDER Council allocated an annual environmental water allocation (EWA) of 100 gigalitres (GL), specifically for APPROACH: use in the Barmah-Millewa Forest. The Murray-Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) also formed the Barmah- Millewa Forum (BMF) in response to the continued WETLAND AND FOREST WATER deterioration of forest health due to the effects of river MANAGEMENT IN THE regulation, and following a large community interest and BARMAH-MILLEWA FOREST response to a consultant’s report on water management in the forests.
The BMF is a unique cross-border organisation that Author: Amy Webb, Barmah-Millewa Forum Project represents the wide-ranging interests of the forest. Their Officer, Barmah-Millewa Forum main role is to provide advice regarding the design and implementation of water management strategies to The medium scale flooding in the Barmah-Millewa Forest maintain, and where possible, enhance the ecological and wetland system during September 2003 was a health of the Barmah-Millewa Forest, a large River Red welcome sight for the Barmah-Millewa Forum (an Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) forest located on the advisory group to the Murray-Darling Basin River Murray floodplain near Echuca in south eastern Commission), as it signals a start to the water Australia. The Forum also funds projects in three broad management strategies contained in their annual areas: operating plan for 2003-04. 1. research, monitoring and evaluation;
2. physical works; and
3. promotional activities.
The BMF consists of advisors representing private water scheme irrigators, wood and non-wood based forest users, local government, environment groups and tourism operators. Membership also includes the government agencies State Forests of NSW, NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment, Parks Victoria, Goulburn Murray Water, the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage and MDBC.
The Barmah-Millewa Forest Above: Flooding near Bunyip Swamp; Photographer: Amy Webb The Barmah and Millewa Forests straddle the River Figure 1 (below): Location of the Barmah-Millewa Forest Murray upstream of Echuca on the NSW-Victorian border (Figure 1). Collectively referred to as the Barmah-Millewa Forest, it forms the largest contiguous stand of River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) forest in the world. The 70 000 hectare forest contains a diverse range of wetland environments, including:
• Ramsar wetlands;
• swamps and marshes;
• rushlands;
• grasslands;
• lakes and billabongs;
• streams; and
• Red Gum forest.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 14 Water management in the Barmah-Millewa Forest
Floods in the Barmah-Millewa Forest are effectively dependent on flooding in the largely unregulated Ovens and Kiewa Rivers. As these rivers enter the Murray below Hume Dam, there is little capacity to store their floodwaters before reaching the constricted reach of the Murray through the Barmah-Millewa Forest. It is the two constricted sections (known as the Barmah and Millewa Chokes) and manipulation of numerous regulators on the river channel that allows water to be moved into different water management areas (WMAs) within the forest.
The BMF produces an annual operating plan that sets out priorities for management of three types of flows:
Above: Forest flooding at Taylors Bridge Road; Photographer: 1. The Forest’s 100GL EWA. Amy Webb 2. Supplementary flows, such as the recent September As such, it could probably be referred to as a wetland, 2003 floods that typically originate in the Ovens during just as easily as a forest. the natural seasonal flooding period, July-December.
The Barmah-Millewa Forest is a multi-use forest managed 3. Unseasonal flow events, which are usually rain- for a variety of outcomes, including timber, honey and rejection events during irrigation season, January-April, charcoal production, grazing, conservation of native flora often resulting in adverse effects on forest ecology. and fauna, and is a popular area for recreation. Environmental Water Allocation
It is internationally significant providing a habitat network In addition to the 100GL allocated to the forest in 1993, an for 13 species listed under the Japan-Australia and China- extra 50GL is available if certain conditions are reached, Australia Migratory Bird Agreements (JAMBA and allowing a total of up to 150GL per year for use in the CAMBA respectively), and over 20 additional species Barmah-Millewa Forest. When the decision to use the also listed under the Bonn Convention. The Barmah EWA is made, the allocated water is released from Hume Forest Ramsar site was designated to the List of Wetlands Dam specifically to enhance watering for environmental of International Importance, under the Convention on purposes within the forest. Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) in 1982. The Millewa Forest forms part of the recently designated (2003) NSW Central Under storage and release rules agreed upon by Victoria Murray State Forests Ramsar site. and New South Wales, the EWA can be: • accumulated from year to year; Forest and Wetland Ecology • loaned during dry periods and subsequently repaid; and The ecology of the Barmah-Millewa Forest and wetlands is bound to the natural seasonal flow patterns of the River • used on the advice of the BMF but with MDBC Murray. Flooding provides a breeding cue for wetland- approval. dependent species such as frogs and waterbirds. It also provides the extra water required by River Red Gums to Below: Barmah-Millewa Forest; Photographer: Amy Webb thrive in a semi-arid environment. Floodplain drying triggers wetland plants to set and shed their seed, and is a crucial factor in nutrient cycling processes that govern floodplain productivity.
Prior to river regulation, floodwaters regularly spread over the floodplain during winter and spring. Seasonal floods now occur less frequently, have lower flow peaks and their duration is much shorter. Conversely, river flows between mid- summer and autumn were generally much lower than they are today. Lower sections of the floodplain that dried out almost on an annual basis now remain near-permanently inundated, causing tree deaths and ponded water conditions favoured by introduced European Carp (Cyprinus carpio).
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 15 Research and river modelling indicates that the best use of the EWA involves extending the duration of natural Conclusions from the 2000-01 use of the EWA flooding, rather than creating large floods of short (Figure 2) duration. 1. The Year 2000 flood and EWA volume was a “one The EWA has been used twice to date, in 1998 and 2000- in five year” event in terms of the historic flood 2001. record.
The Forum has also produced the Barmah-Millewa 2. It produced water coverage of “as flooded as it Forest Water Management Strategy 2000, which aims to: gets” in both forests.
• ensure that the forest is recognised as a single 3. When judged against “natural flows”, the flood ecosystem regardless of state borders; was late (peaking in November is rare) and at five months duration (including the EWA release) was • that the EWA is used efficiently and effectively; quite long.
• that economic, environmental and social factors are 4. The actual river operations and the release of the taken into account; and EWA marked a major change from the “sharing the • allow incorporation of advances in knowledge into water Murray minimum monthly flow” operations to a late management decisions. season “slowing of the recession”. 5. The bird breeding successes could be ranked at Copies of the Strategy can be found on the Forum’s least a 1 in 10 year event in terms of both numbers Website: www.mdbc.gov.au/naturalresources/ of species and total bird numbers. policies_strategies/Barmah_Millewa/index.html. 6. More importantly, because the breeding event For further information contact Amy Webb on reached completion, a large population of birds is (03) 5881 9215 or [email protected]. now available for future breeding events.
7. The EWA only represented about 8 percent of the total flow passing Yarrawonga, Vic, but its timing gave a far higher importance.
Left and Below Left: River Red Gums, Millewa Forest; Photographer: Sarah Young
Yarrawonga Weir Releases & Barmah-Millewa Forest Account Jun 2000 - Jan 2001 Actual releases, simulated releases w ithout forest releases & cumulative use of forest account
120,000 & Estimated Natural Flow at Yarrawonga D/S 1200
110,000 1100
100,000 1000
90,000 900
Parcel 1. Bridging Parcel 2. Advance order 80,000 800 flows flow 70,000 700 Parcel 3. Managed flood 60,000 recession to targeted 600 w etlands 50,000 500 Volume (GL) Volume Flow (ML/day) 40,000 400
30,000 300
20,000 200 Barmah-Millewa Account - Cumulative
10,000 100
0,000 0 1-Jul-00 1-Jun-00 7-Jan-01 9-Oct-00 8-Nov-00 11-Jul-00 21-Jul-00 31-Jul-00 9-Sep-00 8-Dec-00 11-Jun-00 21-Jun-00 17-Jan-01 27-Jan-01 19-Oct-00 29-Oct-00 18-Nov-00 28-Nov-00 10-Aug-00 20-Aug-00 30-Aug-00 19-Sep-00 29-Sep-00 18-Dec-00 28-Dec-00 Figure 2 (right): Yarrawonga Weir Release Simulated Yarrawonga Releases w/o Forest Release 2000-2001 EWA Estimated Natural Yarrawonga D/S hydrograph Barmah-Millewa Forest Allocation Usage
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 16 THE LIVING MURRAY A ‘FIRST STEP’ DECISION
Author: Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage
In 2002 the Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council established The Living Murray initiative in response to Above: Millewa Forest, NSW; Photographer: Sarah Young concerns about the environmental and economic health of the River Murray system. In November 2003, the Council At its August 2003 meeting, CoAG also noted the acknowledged that the health of the system is inextricably agreement by the Australian Government and Murray- linked to the health and economic success of the Darling Basin states (except Queensland) to provide communities it supports and agreed to a ‘first step’ $500 million to address water over-allocation in the Basin. proposal. This decision marks the beginning of a number The Australian Government will provide $200 million of of collective actions to return the system to a healthy this. Details of this funding package are currently being working river. developed, however it is anticipated that The Living Murray first step is likely to be a major recipient of these The ‘first step’ will initially focus on achieving significant funds. environmental benefits for six ecological assets on the River Murray: Barmah-Millewa Forest; Gunbower and The Living Murray and NWI will build on the efforts of Koondrook-Perricoota Forests; Hattah Lakes; Chowilla the Australian Government and the five State and Floodplain (including Lindsay-Wallpolla); the Murray Territory governments of the Basin to work together to Mouth, Coorong and Lower Lakes; and the River Murray improve the health of the Murray-Darling system. channel. This will require effective management of up to Through the Murray-Darling Basin Initiative in particular, 500 gigalitres of water each year, likely to be recovered several policies and strategies are in place to provide a over five years. A part of the ‘first step’ will also include a framework for action. These include the Integrated comprehensive community engagement and Catchment Management Policy, Basin Salinity communications strategy that will inform, involve and Management Strategy, Algal Management Strategy and seek community input to the nature and elements of the the Floodplain Wetlands Management Strategy. first step. The Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council’s The majority of the six sites have been recognized as 14 November 2003 Communiqué provides more detailed Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar information about the ‘first step’ and can be found at Convention. The Barmah-Millewa Forest is included www.thelivingmurray.mdbc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/ within the Barmah Forest Ramsar site and NSW Central itemId/16196/fromItemId/4440. Murray State Forests Ramsar site. Koondrook-Perricoota For further information and contacts, refer to The Living Forests are also a part of the NSW Central Murray State Murray initiative website Forests Ramsar site. The Gunbower Forest Ramsar site, (www.thelivingmurray.mdbc.gov.au). on the Victorian side of the Murray River, mirrors these forests. Hattah Lakes are a part of the Hattah-Kulkyne Lakes Ramsar site. The Chowilla Flooplain is a part of the Riverland Ramsar site. The Murray Mouth and Coorong are recognized within the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar site.
Importantly, Council’s decision also identifies existing links between The Living Murray and the Council of Australian Government’s (CoAG) agreement to develop a National Water Initiative (NWI). The NWI is intended to improve investor confidence and economic efficiency, while also protecting resource condition and environmental assets. Although detail is yet to be developed, key features of the NWI include designing a Above: Riverland Ramsar site, nationally compatible system of water access SA; Left: Coorong, SA; entitlements, as well as institutional arrangements Photographer: Linda Selg to recover and manage environmental water and to invest in water savings.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 17 “HOP IN AND HELP MANLY LAGOON” PROJECT
A COMMUNITY SUCCESS STORY
Author: Sarah Cahill, Manly Environment Centre
Manly Lagoon is a small coastal lagoon, located at the boundary of Manly and Warringah in Sydney’s Northern Beaches area. The community enjoys the area as a tranquil haven in an intensely urbanised area. As a result The lagoon and catchment area is home to a number of of an innovative project to celebrate the life in and around threatened and unusual species, such as the Climbing the lagoon, its playground is now one of the most popular Galaxias (Galaxias brevipinnis) fish. The idea behind Hop in Manly. in and Help is to accentuate the positive aspects of the lagoon and protect the flora and fauna relying on the However, this important wetlands area has also suffered habitat. It is hoped this will be achieved through action significant degradation over the years owing to rapid and education, rather than emphasising what has been development in Manly. It is now just 10 percent of its lost. original size and is considered one of the most polluted recreational waterways on the east coast of Australia. The project was launched with a competition for every school in the catchment area, called Walk on the Wildside A spate of negative publicity regarding pollution in the - Young Environmental Designer of the Year. Five schools lagoon prompted a group of university students working submitted 350 ideas for interpretive signage to be placed with the Manly Environment Centre (MEC) to ask, “So around the lagoon. The winning designs are now featured why isn’t anyone doing anything about it?” And so the as part of an Eco-Discovery Walking Track that links the Hop in and Help Manly Lagoon project was born. heritage-listed foreshore of Manly ocean beach to Manly dam. Judy Reizes of the MEC explains, “We had lost our way in the story of what the lagoon means to Manly. Prompted The MEC has discovered that using kids’ art for by the students we started looking at the history of the interpretive signage is particularly successful for lagoon from Governor Philip’s exploration of the area and presenting information in an engaging manner. It is ideal Aboriginal recollections, to find a path back that would for public places because it discourages graffiti. show us how to celebrate the life in the lagoon today.” To help prepare the children for the competition, and provide teachers with a comprehensive teaching resource about the lagoon, the MEC developed a unique education kit. The kit brings together for the first time into one resource the story of the lagoon. The story includes:
• Aboriginal presence and European history of the area;
• landform – past and present;
• the living things in the lagoon today;
• what Manly and Warringah councils are doing;
• paintings and poetry about the lagoon; and
• what schools can do to get Above: Plaques along the Eco-Discovery Walking Track involved and help. feature the winning entries from the Walk on the Wildside - Young Environmental Designer of the Year.
Left:The Manly Environment Centre Education kit
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 18 Walking around the lagoon today it is an educator’s paradise – the kids’ art signs side-by-side with finely Left: Frog Sculpture which sculpted sandstone lagoon mascots. Also a pollution can be found along the indicator continues to monitor the health of the lagoon for Walking Track at the Manly Lagoon everyone to see. Below: A pollution indicator In addition to the education kit and competition, a series to assist you to assess the of events took the message to the wider community health of the Manly Lagoon audience. Everyone from toddlers to senior citizens took Photograpghs are courtesy part in activities from painting picnics to clean up days. A of: the Manly Environment total of 9 000 volunteer hours have been contributed by Centre school children, sports groups, TAFE colleges, vacation care centres and the elderly, as well as scientists, university lecturers and students. Their ideas and efforts are represented in lasting artworks, depicting what the lagoon means to all members of the community, including children’s paintings in the playground and murals depicting the elders’ oral history.
Left: The Senior Citizen mural at the Manly Environment Centre; photograph courtesy of: the Manly Environment Centre
The Hop in and Help Manly Lagoon Project has significantly contributed towards reversing the trend of About the Manly Environment Centre the lagoon’s last century of ecological deterioration. Its achievements were recently recognised at the Keep The MEC promotes and supports environmentally- Australia Beautiful Metro Pride Awards, where the friendly living. This is achieved through catchment liaison officer for Hop in and Help project, Jane educational programs, practical projects to protect Murray, accepted the Sustainable Communities award. and enhance the local environment, and provision The project also won the category of Sustainable of resources to support community initiatives and Development: Local Agenda 21 and the National Office of researchers. Local Government 2003 National Awards for Local The MEC aims to create links between the Government. community, councils, industry, businesses and To build on the success of the project and take the educational institutions. message to an even wider audience, the Manly Environment Centre distributed a free postcard through Avant Card in August 2003. The postcard features the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog, a native of the catchment. It encourages people to visit the Hop in and Help area of the project’s website (www.wildaboutwetlands.org.au). Here you will find information on potential water pollution problems – from building and littering to gardening and car care – and the steps everyone can take to help to protect and respect our waterways.
For more information on any aspect of the project please contact Judy Reizes or Jane Murray at the Manly Environment Centre on (02) 9976 2842, email: [email protected], [email protected], or visit the MEC at 41 Belgrave Street, Manly, NSW.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 19 BANROCK STATION WETLAND COMPLEX: RAMSAR SITES NEED RAMSAR PLANS
Author: Tony Sharley, Manager, Banrock Station, South Australia
In October 2002, a 10 year program to restore the wetlands at Banrock Station in eastern SA was recognised with the Above: Vegetation at Banrock Station Wetlands Complex; inclusion of the site on the List of Wetlands of Photographer: Clare Irwin International Importance maintained by the Ramsar Convention. This was the 63rd wetland listed in Australia and it became one of more than 1 300 Ramsar sites When setting the objectives for our plan and describing worldwide. the ecological character for the wetland, it was important to invest the time to ensure a level of accuracy, as it In January 2003, the site managers at Banrock Station would form the baseline for future monitoring and action. engaged MainStream Environmental Consulting to assist If the ecological character is not conserved then what was in preparing the Management Plan with financial support the point of listing in the first place? from our company (BRL Hardy) and the Natural Heritage Trust (NHT). The fourth draft of the Plan was circulated The Management Plan for public consultation for one month in September 2003, The four objectives of the Banrock Station Wetlands and the final Plan was completed in December 2003. Complex Ramsar site Management Plan are:
My experience with this process has been very positive. 1. To maintain, and continue the rehabilitation of, the Many times I have questioned why Ramsar sites do not environment of the Banrock Station Wetland Complex. all have management plans and why there is not more This includes reinstated wetting-drying cycles, control of importance placed on developing these plans. Typical introduced pest and weed species and, where feasible, re- answers include “not a priority”, “haven’t got the establish the former vegetation communities and species resources”, or “too difficult because there’s too many found on the site. landholders and too much politics involved” and so I wonder how they were listed in the first place. 2. To continue to promote the site as a place of learning, awareness raising and minimum impact recreational Over the last two years, my involvement with Ramsar activities, which are also economically viable for the through the designation of the Banrock Station Wetland landholder. Complex has led me to conclude that the consultation during the listing and in the development of the plan, 3. To promote the site as a model for the wise use concept must be thorough and managed by an expert. We would of the Ramsar Convention. not have achieved either outcome without an 4. To respect the cultural heritage values of the site, independent expert to steer us through the relatively especially for the Riverland Aboriginal Community. complex listing and planning processes and associated consultations. In developing the Plan, consultation initially involved the people closest to the site, and the Management Advisory Below: Banrock Station Wetlands Complex Ramsar site; Photographer: Group who represent the signatories to the Memorandum Clare Irwin of Understanding (MoU) prepared for the management of the site. The second draft was sent to ecological experts, neighbours, local government departments and those with a keen interest, including our own staff.
During September 2003, the consultation was taken further afield and included a well publicised public comment phase. This included a public information night and a coordinated Government response with all feedback incorporated into the final plan. A series of meetings with Indigenous elders and the Indigenous community were held at Banrock Station during a walk and talk and BBQ.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 20 We developed the following six management sections to meet the plan’s objectives:
1. Biodiversity conservation and habitat restoration;
2. Wetland water and salinity management;
3. Pest, weed and fire management;
4. Visitor management and protecting cultural values;
5. Vineyard and Wine and Wetland Centre operations; and
6. Collection and maintenance of management data.
The plan also incorporates other existing plans for the property including the Vineyard Environmental Management System, the Wetland Hydrological Plan and Native Vegetation Management Plan.
Implementation of the Plan
The next step will be the implementation of the Plan, and in particular actions listed in section six. Section six will guide us, as the site managers, in the management of Banrock Station for many years to come. In addition, monitoring and reporting against the ecological character laid out in Table 3.2 of the plan will test our accountability. It is critical to invest resources to ensure that if there are adverse changes to the ecological character, that these can be detected and brought to the attention of those Above: Boardwalks at Banrock Station Wetlands Complex allow who administer the Ramsar Convention in Australia. visitors to get close to the water; Photographer: Clare Irwin Table 3.2: ‘Ecological character’ management benchmarks (excerpt from the Management Plan)
70 ‘Ecological character’ Baseline condition* Limits of ^ acceptable surrogates/indicators change Species and ecological associations Lagoon and floodplain Lignum (Muehlenbeckia Population estimate – approx 265 ha. Loss of 10 % florulenta) shrubland Condition – generally good. Trend – increasing. Common reed (Phragmites Population estimate – approx 70 ha Loss of 10 % australis) and narrow-leaf Condition - generally good. bulrush (Typha domingensis) Trend – stable to increasing. sedgeland communities. River saltbush (Atriplex Population estimate – approx 5 ha. Loss of 5 % rhagodioides). Condition – variable. Trend – stable. Swamp daisy (Brachycome Population estimate – to be To be determined following basaltica var. graclis) determined by further surveys. further surveys. Condition – unknown at this time. Trend – unknown at this time. Tufted burr-daisy (Calotis Population estimate – to be To be determined following cretica). determined by further surveys. further surveys. Condition – unknown at this time. Trend – unknown at this time. Darling Lily (Crinum flaccidum) Population estimate – approx. 10 ha. Loss of 5 % Condition – reproducing. Trend – increasing. Garland Lily (Calostemma Population estimate – approx. 2 ha. Loss of 5 % purpureum) Condition – reproducing. Trend – increasing. Southern Bell Frog (Litoria Population estimate - to be determined No loss of breeding raniformis). by further surveys. population. Males not heard Trend – increasing for two consecutive years. Breeding - yes
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 21 River snail (Notopala hanleyi) Population estimate - 400 No loss of breeding population. Trend – increasing Is it successfully establishing in Breeding - yes the wetland away from recolonisation tube Migratory birds – Sightings: Species not sighted in 12 Great Egret (Ardea alba) 5-50 consecutive months. Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia) 5-50
Red-necked Stint (Calidris ruficollis) 1-20 Species not sighted in 3 White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus consecutive years. leucogaster) 1-2 Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris 1-20 acuminata) and Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) 1-20
1-20 Breeding waterbirds other than those above: Black Swan (Cygnus atratus) 20 - 200 No breeding in 2 consecutive Australian Shelduck (Tadorna years tadornoides) Mallee-Box-Red Gum Riparian ecosystems Mallee ecosystem including Blue Hectares – approx 300 ha Loss of 5 % mallee (Eucalyptus cyanophylla) Condition – 80% regrowth, 20% old trees community; Red mallee (E. socialis) Trend - increasing community River Box (Eucalyptus largiflorens) Hectares – approx 250 ha Loss of 5 % vegetation associations. Condition – variable, severely degraded to healthy with recruitment? Trend – stable River Red Gum (Eucalyptus Hectares – approx 110 ha Loss of 5 % camaldulensis) woodland. Condition – mature trees declining Trend - mature trees decreasing, juveniles increasing Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus Population estimate – approx 100 No loss of breeding population. monarchoides) Trend – stable Breeding - yes Biophysical attributes Flood levels, frequency, duration and seasonal timing (see inundation map – section 6.2) - small (60,000ml/day) Every year around 250 ha main lagoon and Not less than every 2 years eastern lagoon.
Rest of floodplain = 21 years in 100 years Not less than every 3 years
Currently 12 years in 100, - medium (85,000ml/day) Natural 45 years in 100 Not less than every 5 years, or no more than 5 consecutive years < 85,000 Ml/day
Not less than every 10 years 5 years in 100 - large (120,000 ml/day) Water quality in the wetland (From Tucker 2001): Conductivity (EC) Range: 323-1160 Turbidity (NTU) Range: 24-488 Temperature (oC) Range: 11-28.7 Presence of macrophytes 50% cover of Ribbonweed (Vallisneria 20% cover of Ribbonweed gigantea)?
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 22 Left: Vineyard, and Wine and Wetland Centre at Banrock Station; Photographer: Clare Irwin
The ecological character thresholds and acceptable limits will be reported against annually, and if the thresholds are exceeded possible causes and options for remediation will be investigated. This may sound heavy handed, but if Australia is really serious about Ramsar sites being the demonstration sites of the wise use concept, then accountability and transparency are the keys to our credibility.
So now we’ve got a Ramsar Site with a Ramsar Management Plan to guide our management and to ensure that there is State and Australian Government support for remedial strategies if they are needed. To view the Plan, please visit our website Above: The Management Plan identifies partial drying as an action at Banrock Station Wetlands Complex; Photographer: (www.banrockstation.com/nature_wetlands.asp). Jason Ferris
Yours in wise use of wetlands! Below: Banrock Station Wetlands Complex; Photographer: Kylee Wilton
NATIONAL WETLANDS COMMUNICATION PRODUCTS
The Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage has developed many national wetlands communication products, as an initiative of the Australian Wetlands Information Network (AWIN). In fact, Wetlands Australia is one such publication.
Other products include a World Wetlands Day poster, factsheets, a sticker series, a World Wetlands Day fridge magnet, wetlands resource module and CD (see page 5), and a promotional postcard for World Wetlands Day. A video which was produced by the Ramsar Convention Secretariat is also available.
To access these products visit the wetlands publication website at www.deh.gov.au/water/publications/ index.html#wetlands or contact (02) 6274 1111.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 23 WORLD WETLANDS DAY 2004 WATER FOR WETLANDS - WATER FOR LIFE 2 FEBRUARY 2004
Author: Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage
World Wetlands Day is celebrated each year on 2 February. It marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971.
World Wetlands Day was first celebrated in 1997. Since this time government agencies, non-government organisations and community groups across the world have celebrated World Wetlands Day by undertaking actions to raise public awareness of wetland values and benefits and promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands. These activities include seminars, nature walks, festivals, launches of new policies, announcement of new Ramsar sites, newspaper articles, radio interviews and wetland rehabilitation activities.
The theme for World Wetlands Day 2004 is Water for Wetlands - Water for Life.
WETLANDS PHOTO & IMAGE COMPETITION
During 2003 school children and community members were invited to participate in the Wetlands Photo & Image Competition. Many submitted their best wetland photo or piece of artwork which illustrated the 2004 theme of Water for Wetlands - Water for Life.
The Australian Wetlands Information Network (AWIN) judged the entries, and extend their congratulations to Dylan Ebner and John Wrench. Dylan is the winner of Category A (14 years and under), with his bright and colourful drawing of The Happy Wetland. John is the winner of Category B (15 years and over), with his photo of the Grey Mangroves at Nudgee Beach in Queensland.
There were a number of high quality entries, some of which are featured in this publication. The AWIN would like to thank entrants for taking the time to submit images, and would like to encourage you to participate in future years. The competition will open mid-2004, and entry forms will be available from www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands/bulletin/ index.html.
Above: Winning entry of Category B, titled “Grey Mangrove Forest - Creche at low tide”; Photographer: John Wrench
John Wrench is a retired Hospital Pharmacist who now works in several areas of environmental conservation, rehabilitation and education, both as a volunteer and a consultant, particularly at the Downfall Creek Bushland Centre at McDowall in Brisbane. With special skills in Botany, Photography and Bushfood, he is actively engaged in writing and teaching, as well as running workshops and bush trips.
One of his Bushfood and Walkabout courses includes the Nudgee Beach Wetland Reserve, where the photograph of the mangroves was taken during a ‘mangrove walk’. For further information on the Downfall Creek Bushland Centre, please call (07) 3407 2400. Above: Winning entry of Category A, titled “The Happy Wetland”; Artist: Dylan Ebner
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 24 Highly commended entries for Category B
Above Left: “Swan Sunrise”, Belmont Lagoon NSW; Photographer: Angela Gleeson
Above: “Fragile”, Blanche Cup SA; Photographer: Sylvia Leighton
Left: “Haven in the outback”, Lake Dartmouth QLD; Photographer: Renee Moore
Below: “Water Feeds”, Tom Thumb Lagoon NSW; Photographer: Marina Porteous
BECOME INVOLVED IN WORLD WETLANDS DAY 2004....
Why don’t you become involved in an event in your local area? For a list of events taking place around Australia, go to:
www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands/day/index.html
If you have a story to tell about your involvement in a WWD event in 2004 send an email to [email protected]. We’d love to hear it!
Highly commended entries for Category A
Above: “Wetland mirror reflections”, Salisbury SA; Photographer: Mitchell Opie
Left: “Life”; Artist: Alexandra Harwood
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 25 We have all seen tortoises on the move across the roads WORLD and parks, where are they going and why? What should we do to keep them safe?
WETLANDS DAY 5. Nature photography workshop:
Learn basic photography techniques with a professional 2004 AT THE photographer. Capture the natural beauty of our wetlands on film. Bring camera, film and hat.
WETLANDS 6. Experiencing the wildfoods of our wetlands: CENTRE, Uncover the tastes and sensations of edible native plants from our region’s wetlands. Learn about the properties of these plants and how you could landscape them into your NEWCASTLE own backyard.
7. Guided walks
The Wetlands Centre situated on Sandgate Road, Guided walks around the wetlands and children’s Shortland, NSW will be celebrating World Wetlands Day activities such as dip netting and nature craft lessons. For 2004 with a variety of events. Events will include the the more adventurous people, guided canoe tours along launching of the national brochure on Australian the Ironbark Creek to experience this part of the Wetlands and the cutting of a celebration cake. catchment where the wind gently whistles through the Workshops and seminars will be running all day with mangroves. A cost of $6.00 per person applies for the programs such as: canoe tour. 1. Creating and designing a native garden to attract birds. Entry is free on the day so please come and join us on 2. Beginning Birding: this joyous occasion when we celebrate World Wetlands An introduction to identifying birds, including how birds Day on 2 February 2004. For further information please are classified; using a bird identification handbook and contact The Wetlands Centre on (02) 4951 6466 or visit using binoculars correctly. the website (www.wetlands.org.au).
Left: A group of visitors at The Wetlands Centre, enjoying some birdwatching
Below: Bell Frog
Photographs are courtesy of: The Wetlands Centre
3. Designing a successful frog pond and learning how to attract frogs to your garden:
Let the experts guide you through all the necessary ways to attract these beautiful creatures to your residence.
4. All about reptiles:
What should we do when we see a snake in the garden? What type of snakes are common in our area?
What lizards and skinks are common and how can we identify and encourage them to our environment?
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 26 TOWNSVILLE TOWN COMMON “COMMON INTEREST” PROJECT: REVIVE OUR WETLANDS Above: Volunteers at Townsville Common; Photograph courtesy of: BHP Billiton Author: Dave Hudson, Conservation Volunteers Australia From this beginning, a three-way partnership between The Town Common in Townsville, north Queensland, is Revive, the local community and the Queensland Parks one area where the Revive Our Wetlands Program has and Wildlife Service was developed to implement the made a significant difference. project. This partnership has provided more than 3 900 volunteer days in three years. The Common is an important wetland for the spring- autumn migration of birds from Asia, and for the north- The project has restored valuable native habitat for south migration of colonial birds within Australia. It is migratory and colonial birds, passed on skills in wetland important habitat for 26 species listed under the Japan- conservation to local volunteers, increased awareness of Australia and China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreements the importance of wetlands, and heightened community (JAMBA and CAMBA respectively) and it is the feeding ownership of this important local asset. ground for the rare Clamorous Reed-warbler As the Revive Our Wetlands “Common Interest” Program (Acrocephalous stentoreus). completes its third year, community support continues to reach high levels with teams of local volunteers working at the site each week. Many of these people have been dedicated volunteers for up to three years. As a result of the Revive program many members of the local community are now “keeping an eye” on progress on the Common and are becoming advocates of its unique natural values.
For further information on Revive and/or the “Common Interest” project contact Dave Hudson phone (07) 4041 7466, email [email protected].
Left: Looking out from Teegoora Rock, over the Freshwater Lagoon of the Townsville Town Common; Photograph courtesy of: BHP Billiton
Together, BHP Billiton and Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) identified declining native habitat and the loss of biodiversity as the major threats to the Common. In July 2000 the Revive Our Wetlands Program invited the Townsville community to work with them to address these threats. The community accepted the challenge and the “Common Interest” project was launched.
Right: Waterbirds including Magpie Geese and Great Egrets in Long Swamp; Photograph courtesy of: BHP Billiton
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 27 FISH UNLIMITED: STEWARDSHIP PAYMENTS FOR FARMERS RETURNING LAND TO FISH HABITAT
Authors: Teresa Bassham, Wetland Care Australia and Patrick Dwyer, NSW Fisheries
Wetland Care Australia has launched an innovative environmental project called Fish Unlimited. The project aims to repair over 130 hectares of fish habitat from Tweed Above: The launch of Fish Unlimited; Photograph courtesy of: Wetland Care Australia Heads to Ballina in NSW over the next 18 months. Mangroves and other wetland areas are economically and Fish Unlimited is ground-breaking territory. The project environmentally valuable. A study by R.M Moreton will deliver significant benefits including financial benefits (1990)1 illustrates just how valuable they are. During a 12 for landholders and large areas of land (either privately month study Moreton caught more than 4 000 fish owned, managed by Local Government or Traditional totalling over 600 kilograms in an area covering one Owners) being returned to fish habitat. In five years time hectare of mangroves within Moreton Bay, Queensland this wetland repair project could equate to an extra five (these mangroves being of the same species occurring in million fish – or more than four times the annual the Tweed, Brunswick and Richmond areas). While many commercial catch in the region. of these fish were juveniles their direct weight equates to A Wetland Care Australia Fish Habitat Project Officer will $1 846 worth of fish per hectare – not including high value work on the ground with landholders to improve the fish prawns ($7/kg) and mud crabs ($16/kg). habitat. Funds will be used to reimburse landholders who Implementation of Fish Unlimited undertake agreed on-ground works. A stewardship payment will cover lost productivity from their private The project officer from Wetland Care Australia will land that is returned to a fish habitat. The amount and inspect potential properties and discuss with the duration of stewardship agreements will be negotiated landholder activities that could be undertaken to make with landholders participating in Fish Unlimited. their property more fish friendly and involve them in the scheme. Activities could be individual projects or A risk management approach for Fish Unlimited ensures progressive works. Examples include: that agreements will only be made when it is assured that funds exist to pay the stewardship payment for the extent • An old creek crossing within a property may be of the agreement (which could be up to 20 years). restricting the fish migration up and downstream. If there Accordingly, the funds will not ‘dry up’ for agreements is enough good quality fish habitat upstream of the once they have been crossing the Fish Unlimited project could committed. assist the landholder to construct a new fish friendly crossing. Wetland Care Australia estimates that current • The project officer may work with landholders secured funding will be to establish scale-back production in very allocated to approximately marginal areas such as outside levees and in 30 wetland repair sites, back swamps resulting in these areas being averaging five hectares. managed for habitat values.
Why would commercial fishers and related business pay landholders to return paddocks to mangrove and other wetland areas?
Right: The focus of Fish Unlimited; Photographer: Patrick Dwyer
1 Moreton, R.M. 1990 Community Structure, density and standing crop of fish in a sub-tropical Australian mangrove area. Marine Biology 105, 385-394.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 28 The project is supported by an Australian Government Sustainable Regions Programme project, with strong support from State and Local Government, private landholders, and the local commercial fishing industry. A significant and generous contributor is the Tweed Shire Council. Wetland Care Australia have secured an in-principle agreement with Melbourne company Rapid Map to provide in- kind GIS mapping for the targeted area, incorporating all river catchments from the Tweed River south to the Richmond River.
Wetland Care Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that advises on, and implements local, on-ground community driven actions to repair Australia’s wetlands.
For further information contact Wetland Care Above: School of Mullet; Photographer: Patrick Dwyer Australia on (02) 6681 6069 or visit their website www.wetlandcare.com.au.
WETLANDS HELP- LINE LAUNCHED
Author: Bill Phillips, MainStream Environmental Consulting Pty Ltd
The Wetlands Help-line (www.wetlandshelp-line.com) was launched in May 2003. It is a community service to provide an easy entry point to information about wetlands, their management, the Convention on Wetlands’ (Ramsar Convention) various tools and Ramsar sites of the Oceania region.
Visitors to the site have steadily increased since its launch. In the first five months the average number of visitors to the site was 85 per day. This increased during the later part of the year, growing to more than 100. The website was established primarily to assist wetland practitioners from the Oceania region. It is heartening that visitors to the site have come from many different countries around the world. About 60 percent of visitors are from the Oceania region.
The website includes a virtual tour of the Ramsar sites. However this section of the site needs much development. The aim of the tour is to assemble photos of each Ramsar site, plus other information including management plans, to provide comprehensive information on the wetland sites. South Australia’s Ramsar site managers have provided very useful photos and information, and examples can be found at the pages for the Ramsar sites Riverland, Banrock Station Wetland Complex, Bool and Hacks Lagoons, and Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert. If you have photos or information that illustrate Ramsar sites of the Oceania region, please contact Bill Phillips on the details below.
If you have suggestions for improvements to the site and access to useful resource materials which can be linked to from this site, please contact Bill Phillips on (02) 6281 7470 or [email protected]
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 29 In some areas mangroves and saltmarshes have been lost, MANGROVES AND particularly where they are subject to reclamation, construction of seawalls for restricting tidal inundation, SALTMARSHES – stock grazing and coastal development (Figure 1). Mangrove Migration into Saltmarsh Wetlands – An MUDDY Indicator of Poor Land Management Saltmarshes are also being reduced due to the migration MANAGEMENT of mangroves into the saltmarsh area (Figure 2). Some examples of these changes include:
• 1954 to 1995, the mangrove coverage at Brisbane Water, Author: Christopher Harty, Chris Harty Planning and NSW increased by 3.8 percent and the saltmarsh Environmental Management coverage decreased by 78 percent;
Introduction • 1956 to 1996, the mangrove coverage at Botany Bay, Mangroves and saltmarshes are wetland communities that NSW increased by 32.8 percent and the saltmarshes are found in the intertidal zone of estuaries, bays, inlets decreased by 78.7 percent; and gulfs. They link the land with the sea through tidal • 1939 to 1999, the mangrove coverage at Rhyll Inlet on movement, receiving water from both the ocean and Phillip Island, Victoria increased by 55 percent and the freshwater rivers. This unique hydrology makes the saltmarshes decreased by 19.7 percent; mangrove and saltmarsh zone an ever changing and complex ecosystem, subject to influences from the sea • The mangroves at Barker Inlet, South Australia have and the land. migrated into saltmarsh communities at a rate of approximately 5 hectares per year; and Mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands are considered important because they are: • 1979 to 1993, the mangrove coverage at North Arm Creek, Barker Inlet in South Australia increased by 16.4 • Biologically productive natural systems contributing percent with a loss of nearly two-thirds of saltmarsh (62.3 organic matter to estuaries; percent).
• Breeding and nursery grounds for many aquatic It is likely that the expansion of mangroves began last organisms, such as annelids, molluscs, crustaceans and century as a result of vegetation removal in catchments fish; around estuaries, making way for rural and urban • Feeding grounds for waterbirds; development. Current changes in the distribution of mangrove and saltmarsh vegetation are influenced by a • Protectors of the shore against erosion from storms; combination of local factors driven by human activity, • Filters of sediments and other substances; such as increased urban and rural development within the catchments of many estuaries in southeast Australia. • Areas of scenic attraction; and Runoff from more exposed landscapes (both cleared land and development sites with impermeable surfaces) • Significant areas for scientific investigation and contains sediment and nutrients, which are deposited into environmental education. the estuaries, creating an imbalance in which the mangroves flourish. Overall, it appears that the mangrove Figure 1: Mangroves and saltmarshes have been lost due to the construction of seawalls (right) and coastal has become an opportunistic indicator of poor land development (below); Photographer: Chris Harty management, occupying those coastal areas that have received high sediment loads (Figure 3).
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 30 Muddy Management for Mangroves and Saltmarshes
Mangrove migration into saltmarshes warrants a management response that addresses both ecological processes and changes in vegetation distribution. Management should address issues such as catchment development, erosion, nutrient control and land use capacity.
Management of mangroves and saltmarshes requires a strategic planning approach, which avoids ‘muddy’ management Figure 2 (above): Mangroves are encroaching into areas which and considers the link between the estuary and its have been typically saltmarsh; Photographer: Chris Harty catchment. Attempting to plan for mangroves and saltmarshes without considering the catchment and Planning for Mangroves and Saltmarshes estuary-wide processes, will lead to further problems. The components of catchments, including the mangroves and Some scientists and coastal communities have raised saltmarshes, make a whole system, which is an entity that concerns about the need to better protect saltmarshes adapts and responds, to external stimuli and pressures. and manage mangrove encroachment into these areas, with an emphasis on action to remove mangroves. As To address mangrove and saltmarsh management these mangroves extend out across mudflats and sand flats habitats need to be protected under local planning they will reduce the availability of other habitats, thus schemes. Strategies need to be developed, by employing decreasing the availability of intertidal feeding areas for appropriate management responses, to reduce the amount birds and fish, and reducing the space available for of sediment and nutrients reaching estuaries and recreational use. providing excessive substrate for mangrove colonization.
A serious outcome of such concerns is the potential to undermine public support for valuing both mangrove and saltmarsh wetland habitat. Single purpose objectives such as removing mangroves as a threatening process to saltmarshes are often pursued. This course of action may create further damage and loss of saltmarshes and may be unnecessary. Furthermore, the causes of mangrove expansion and migration into saltmarshes remain un- addressed.
In the mean time, increased sedimentation and nutrient levels from soil erosion and freshwater runoff will continue. These processes will continue to influence the changing vegetation patterns found in mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands along the southeast coast of Australia. It becomes too tempting to deal with the symptoms rather than the underlying causes of problems, and worse, to become beguiled by ‘miracle cures’ or ‘quick fixes’ that promise relatively easy and pain free gains. Without linking mangrove and saltmarsh management to catchment processes and management, removing mangroves may lead to short term improvement, but in the long term (five to ten years), mangroves will return to where they have been removed. Figure 3 (right): Mangroves are occupying areas which have received high sediment loads; Photographer: Chris Harty
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 31 Accordingly, Birds Australia’s Threatened Bird Network PAINTED SNIPE (a project funded by the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust) has started a low budget but high THE RAREST BIRD OF OUR expectation project to address the knowledge gaps, and that will ultimately improve our efforts to conserve this FRESHWATER WETLANDS? striking wader. Specific tasks that we perform include the building of a database of all Painted Snipe records (both historic and current), the co-ordination of a regular Author: Chris Tzaros, Threatened Bird Network, Birds national survey program, increasing community Australia awareness of Painted Snipe and related conservation The Australian Painted Snipe (Rostratula australis) is issues, and encouraging or assisting research and one of Australia’s most mysterious wading birds. It is one conservation work on the species. We also anticipate that of three kinds of Painted Snipe in the world. The other the Painted Snipe, with all its beauty and intrigue, would two are the South American species that is confined to be a terrific flagship species for freshwater wetland that continent, and the Greater Painted Snipe that is conservation in Australia, highlighting the desperate widespread throughout much of Asia and parts of Africa. plight that so many wetland species find themselves in. Until recently, it was considered As a result of our work thus that the Australian Painted Snipe far, we are developing a much was merely a subspecies of the better understanding of Greater Painted Snipe but Painted Snipe ecology, and we taxonomic revision, including now find ourselves in a DNA and morphological analysis, position where we can answer, has revealed that it is a separate with a much greater degree of distinct species. confidence, some of the Unpredictable and secretive questions raised half a decade inhabitants of inland freshwater ago. For instance, it appears wetlands, the Painted Snipe will that Painted Snipes prefer occasionally turn up at a wetland shallow ephemeral wetlands, in small numbers and stay for a particularly when water levels few weeks, days or hours, before are receding, where there are moving on again. There are no areas of damp exposed mud known sites where one can be Above: Female Painted Snipe; Photographer: Tom Tarrant between sparse low guaranteed of seeing a Painted vegetation, such as flooded Snipe let alone studying them. For these reasons the Lignum, Samphire or tussock grasses. It appears they Painted Snipe remains one of the least studied and poorly seldom occur at wetlands that contain large expanses of understood shorebirds in this country. There is a scarcity tall dense reed beds, such as Cumbunghi. of information about many fundamental aspects of their We have also made advances in developing techniques life cycle, including habitat requirements, distribution, that maximise chances of finding these birds. Painted movements, breeding biology and dietary requirements. Snipe can be incredibly cryptic and reluctant to flush, One thing we know for sure is that the Painted Snipe is preferring to rely on camouflage and remain on the incredibly rare, with a total population perhaps as few as ground, and we recommend that any searching be 1 500 birds and declining1. During the period of the first conducted carefully and patiently. Based on the findings Atlas of Australian Birds (1977-1981), the Painted Snipe of Professor Lew Oring, a shorebird biologist from the had the lowest reporting rate for any species of resident United States who visited Australia last year to study the shorebird in Australia. species, we suggest that observers use the ‘15 minute rule’ – a waiting game that gives snipe a chance to settle Despite its ability to colonise shallow temporary from any disturbance upon an observers approach, and wetlands, the Painted Snipe has probably suffered as a resume feeding. result of widespread wetland drainage and the diversion of water from rivers. This has caused a reduction in the Over time, we hope to continue these discoveries that frequency of flooding of some wetlands. In the Murray- improve our knowledge of Painted Snipe, with an aim to Darling Basin, water resource developments from the pass on as much of what we learn to landholders, land 1960s-1990s have coincided with a significant decline in managers and people wishing to take part in surveys and the number of reports received for the Painted Snipe conservation work. (Atlas of Australian Birds database, 2003). For further information or to get involved, please contact Chris Tzaros, Threatened Bird Network, Birds Australia, on (03) 9882 2622 or email: [email protected].
1 Watkins, D. 1993 A National Plan for Shorebird Conservation in Australia. Australasian Wader Studies Group, Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union, and World Wide Fund for Nature. RAOU Report No. 90.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 32 For rice growers the lack of knowledge of the factors that THE SPATIAL influence local abundance represents a major impediment to management of the problem of crop damage. For ECOLOGY OF wildlife managers the lack of information is an impediment to ensuring that the impact of pest mitigation, predominantly shooting, does not affect the long-term WATERFOWL: survival of species or populations. IN AGRICULTURAL AND The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation and a NATURAL LANDSCAPES Linkage Grant from the Australian Research Council, provided funding for a project focusing on three aspects of the spatial ecology of waterfowl: Authors: David Roshier1, Nick Klomp1, Richard Kingsford2 and Ross McDonnell2, 1Johnstone Centre, 1. waterfowl movements in the rice-growing regions Research in Natural Resources and Society, and 2 NSW during the growing season; National Parks and Wildlife Service 2. sub-continental movements of waterfowl in response to Waterfowl damage to rice crops is a significant problem changes in wetland distribution; and for the rice industry in the Murray-Darling Basin. Entire 3. analyses of landscape structure as a function of bays of rice may be lost to ducks, with much of the wetland distribution. damage occurring at night. This places a financial and social burden on individual growers and is difficult to Wetland distribution and waterbird movements cannot be manage because its timing and magnitude are constrained or replicated to analyse movement responses, unpredictable. but we have made four predictions. First, Grey Teal move between the rice-growing regions of southern NSW and Previous studies in the rice-growing regions of NSW temporary wetlands in the arid interior of the continent, have suggested that the impacts of waterfowl on rice such as those of the Lake Eyre Basin, the Bulloo Overflow production vary within the region and that this variation and the Paroo River during flood periods. Second, is related to the spatial distribution of rice bays, their individual movements out of the rice-growing regions to proximity to other habitats and the timing and method of the temporary wetlands of the arid interior are by jump sowing. Rice growers report ‘good’ and ‘bad’ years in dispersal and movements in the other direction are by terms of duck damage, and suggest that the severe years percolation across a drying wetland mosaic. The former are associated with dry years in Australia’s arid interior, or occur in response to extensive flooding inland and the with years of high local rainfall with subsequent latter is characterised by smaller individual movements waterfowl breeding. These observations suggest a between adjacent wetlands. Third, most Grey Teal complex interaction of fine and broad scale factors movements within the rice-growing region are between determining local abundance of waterfowl. other habitats and rice fields and not between rice fields. Local changes in waterfowl abundance in the rice growing Finally, that agronomic risk from waterfowl declines with regions are likely to be a function of population processes distance from natural refugia, such as vegetated creeks operating at multiple spatial scales. The most significant and natural wetlands. of these are likely to be regional changes in habitat In order to track the movements of Grey Teal, satellite availability mitigated by agricultural practices and transmitters have been attached to birds in the Riverina flooding or drought outside the region that impact on the and in the Lake Eyre Basin. The transmitters are solar distribution and abundance of the broader population. powered and should give several years of service. Wetland distribution is mapped from satellite images.
See where the birds are now at www.csu.edu.au/faculty/sciagr/sst/pers/ droshier/birdmap.html.
For further information, please contact Dr David Roshier on (02) 6933 4104 or via email: [email protected].
Left: Grey Teal about to be released with satellite transmitter attached; Photographer: Michael Todd
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 33 LIVING WETLANDS Figure 1 FUND ON GROUND SUCCESS ACROSS AUSTRALIA
Author: Megan Westlake, Wetland Care Australia
What is the Living Wetlands Fund?
The Living Wetlands Fund (LWF) was a grant provided by the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage, under the Natural Heritage Figure 1: Location of the June 2002-03 Living Wetlands Funds Trust to aid wetland rehabilitation throughout Australia. Projects The fund was devolved to community groups and What was achieved during 2002-2003? managed by Wetland Care Australia. It was first launched During 2002 there was a large amount of public interest in in 2000 and has the LWF, with a total of 43 community groups across continued Australia submitting high quality applications for the through to 2003, grants. Of these applications 20 projects were selected for during which time funding. 33 local organisations Projects considered for sponsorship were divided into across Australia two categories. The first category was the production and received funding. finalisation of action plans and the start of their implementation (Start-up). The second category was funding for the implementation of on-ground works (Implementation). The total amount of funds available for new Implementation projects was $107 100, with an additional $51 000 available for Start-up projects.
Left: Ibis chicks; The location of the projects is illustrated in Figure 1. The Photographer: achievements of many of the LWF projects undertaken Anne Jensen during 2002-03 are outlined in Tables 1 and 2.
Table 1. Details and achievements of many of the Implementation LWF projects undertaken Overall, the June 2002 during 2002-2003 Implementation LWF projects have
Project Outcomes aided the rehabilitation and Deadman’s x Silt removed and original depth of basin restored restoration of at least 3 600 hectares Gully, NSW x Vegetation buffer/filtration zones constructed of wetlands across Australia. x Site revegetated with terrestrial and aquatic plants Activities include revegetation, x Bird monitoring conducted weeding, litter removal, bank x Fencing and wildlife corridors established stabilisation, fencing, pest control, Dodges Ferry x Filtering process of drainage channel and water quality Primary School improved silt removal, and flow restoration. wetlands, TAS x Site revegetated Approximately 50 000 native x Litter removed from the site seedlings were planted and x Red Gum saplings thinned out Mansfield approximately 30 kilometres of Swamp, VIC x Fencing constructed to manage stock x Bird habitat provided, especially for Brolga fencing constructed. Mt Lofty x Weeds removed and site revegetated wetlands, SA x Photo-monitoring points established The management and restoration Lake x Fencing constructed for stock management plans produced as a result of the Corangamite, x Weed and pest control conducted June 2002 Start-up LWF projects will VIC x Site revegetated with aquatic and terrestrial plants (8 000 enable the best management and plants tagged) potential rehabilitation of at least 600 x Wildlife monitored hectares of wetlands across Orielton x Fencing constructed Lagoon, TAS Australia. Downfall x Site revegetated Creek, QLD x Bank stabilised x Signage constructed
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 34 LWF has aided the restoration of several Wetlands of Table 2. Details and achievements of many of the Start-up LWF projects International Importance undertaken during 2002-2003 under the Ramsar Convention including: Pitt Water-Orielton Project Outcomes Lagoon Ramsar site, Tas; Lake Stirling Linear x Site mapped Park, SA x Fish survey conducted Corangamite (part of the x Botanical list prepared Western District Lakes x Mammal and reptile survey completed Ramsar site), Vic; and x Weeds controlled Broadwater wetlands (part of x Management plan completed Broadwater x Site assessment and mapping completed the Myall Lakes Ramsar site), wetlands, NSW x Stakeholder discussions undertaken NSW. Many of the wetlands x Management plan completed funded by the LWF support Little Fishery x Site mapped numbers of migratory birds, Creek, NSW x Stakeholders and landholders identified x Management plan completed and restoration of these Lily ponds, NT x Weeds controlled wetlands has promoted the x Site mapped Japan-Australia and China- x Fauna surveys conducted Australia Migratory Bird x Management plan completed Wilson Wetlands, x Water quality and sediment-nutrient release analysed Agreements (JAMBA and WA x Macroinvertebrates and vegetation survey conducted CAMBA respectively), Asia- x Management priorities identified Pacific Migratory Waterbird x Management/restoration plan completed Conservation Strategy 1996 Scottsdale x Fire history consolidated x Management requirements of Scottsdale Burrowing Crayfish – 2000, and the Action Plan Burrowing Crayfish, TAS researched for the Conservation of x Habitat range for the Crayfish mapped Migratory Shorebirds in the x Management plan completed East Asian-Australasian Tamar Island, TAS x Species present inventoried x Historical data collected Flyway: 2001-2005. x Management plan completed Oxley Creek, QLD x Site mapped As well as general x Priority management actions identified improvements in wetland health, the LWF has contributed to improving the survival chances of endangered and vulnerable species. The implementation of these projects has involved These include the nationally considerable interaction between a endangered Southern broad range of government Brown Bandicoot (Stirling agencies, environmental agencies Linear Park wetlands, SA), and community groups, through and the State vulnerable collaborative funding and in-kind Scottsdale Burrowing contributions. As the projects are Crayfish (Scottsdale community based throughout Burrowing Crayfish wetland Australia, the grants have helped project, Tas) and Brolga increase the awareness of wetland (Mansfield Swamp, Vic). issues on a national level, and empowered many communities through active involvement and decision making in the management and rehabilitation of wetlands.
Future Projects and Funding
The LWF has proven to be an extremely successful and productive venture of the Natural Heritage Trust. Wetland Care Australia is currently investigating the possibility of continuing the LWF into the future.
For further information contact Wetland Care Australia on (02) 6681 6169 or visit www.wetlandcare.com.au.
Above: Fencing and revegetation at Markeys Beach, NSW undertaken as a part of the LWF; Photographer: James Maguire
Left: Erection of nesting boxes in Mansfield Swamp, Vic; Photographer: Don Peters
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 35 The Panel’s interim report was released on 15 October THE MURRAY- 2003 and concluded that annual allocations of water at the lower end of the reference range (350 GL) may provide local benefits for some parts of the River Murray, but DARLING BASIN’S substantial ‘whole-of-river’ benefits only start to appear at 750 GL, and more generally for 1 500 GL. It was a WETLANDS: landmark contribution to our understanding of how floodplain wetlands might respond.
MANAGING THE NATURAL AND Doubling the environmental benefits ECONOMIC RICHES A case study was conducted for the Gunbower Forest region, where additional flows were released from the Authors: Mark Siebentritt and Leanne Wilkinson, Gunbower Creek to wetlands in the area using new Murray-Darling Basin Commission’s River Murray regulators. Environmental Manager Unit “For both the waterbird and wetland vegetation habitat Wetlands are vitally important to the health of the benefits obtained under the 750 GL scenarios with the Murray-Darling Basin’s aquatic systems and everything additional structural and operational improvements in that depends on its water resources, including the place, produced an equivalent benefit to the 1 500 GL economic well-being of the Basin. They also provide scenarios without these improvements in place,” the many recreational, educational and scientific Panel’s interim report concluded. opportunities and add diversity to our landscape. Gunbower Forest was one of five internationally The Murray-Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) works recognised floodplain wetland complexes (Ramsar sites) closely with a range of natural resource management or “icon” sites which the panel assessed. The other sites agencies, community groups and researchers on an were Barmah-Millewa Forest, Koondrook-Perricoota extensive range of management projects to maintain and Forest (part of the Barmah Forest Ramsar site and NSW improve the health of the Basin’s 30 000 wetland areas. Central Murray State Forests Ramsar site), Chowilla Floodplain (part of the Riverland Ramsar site), the Murray The Living Murray Mouth and the Coorong (part of the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar site). The recent Living Murray decision will contribute directly to improving the condition of the River Murray System’s On 14 November 2003, the Murray-Darling Basin wetlands by providing additional flow and enhancing Ministerial Council made a ‘first step’ decision in regard their flooding regimes with changed river operations and to The Living Murray initiative. This followed from the better use of structures. scientific and socio-economic studies and community discussions around the three reference points. The The Living Murray initiative began in April 2002 when the decision focused on maximising environmental benefits at Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council announced a six significant ecological assets with specific ecological community-wide discussion about restoring the health of objectives for each. Objectives will be met through a the River Murray System with three reference points to range of measures including recovering water over a anchor that discussion – an additional 350 GL, 750 GL and period of five years to an estimated average 500 GL/year 1 500 GL on average each year for managed environmental of ‘new’ water, with the volume to be used each year flows. depending on a range of factors such as droughts and As part of the process, the Cooperative Research Centre flood events. In addition to the assets examined by the for Freshwater Ecology was contracted to assemble an Panel, the River Murray channel, Hattah Lakes and independent scientific reference panel to assess the Lindsay-Wallpolla Island (included in the Chowilla ecological Floodplain) were also included in responses to the final list. increased The Living Murray initiative’s environmental implementation program, totalling flows. This was $150 million over seven years, part of a includes work to improve wetting broader and drying cycles within wetlands, assessment of reduce unseasonal summer flooding environmental, and promote enhanced winter and economic and spring flooding. Unseasonal social costs and summer flooding is caused by river benefits called operations that are needed to meet for by the consumer demands during summer Council. months.
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 36 The effects of unseasonal flooding are particularly Right: Efforts by the pronounced in the Barmah-Millewa Forest. If rainfall Basin’s communities, natural resource occurs while water for consumer use (supplied through management and flows at channel capacity) is in transit from Hume research agencies and Reservoir down the river, orders for water are cancelled the MDBC are and the flow must be dissipated through the Barmah- contributing to the more sustainable Millewa system. This can result in unseasonal summer management of our flooding of wetlands leading to, for example, a reduction crucial wetland assets; in the coverage of areas with Moira Grass. The Photographer: Mark implementation program is funding a number of projects Siebentritt that will help to provide alternatives to dissipate rain rejection flows. Despite their importance, as much as 50 percent of the The implementation program is also funding a number of area of wetlands that existed nationally 200 years ago has investigations into better management of wetlands across been lost. the lower River Murray, including an investigation into the operational flexibility of weirs, to allow for raising or Within the Murray-Darling Basin, many land and river lowering of weir pools to wet and dry adjacent wetlands management practices were established before the as needed. community had a thorough understanding of the impact these actions would have on wetlands and their values. Another significant step Anecdotal information and scientific research, especially Another significant step in better management of the over the past 10-20 years, has pointed to the degradation Basin’s wetlands was the development of the Murray- of many of these sites. Darling Basin Commission’s Floodplain Wetlands Causes of wetland degradation include: changes in river Management Strategy. Work on the strategy began in hydrology (that is rivers’ characteristics water flows); 1992 and, following an extensive Basin-wide community blockage of floodplain flows caused by causeways, levee consultation program, was approved by the Ministerial banks and structures; disposal of stormwater, sewage and Council and released in 1998. It guides and supports irrigation effluent into wetlands; excessive grazing by investment in on-ground action and research to enhance stock, feral and native animals; cropping on floodplains the condition of floodplain wetlands in the Murray- and lake beds; introduced fish species and aquatic Darling Basin. weeds; rising saline groundwater beneath floodplains; The Commission’s commitment to the strategy’s goal and and urban and recreational developments. objectives is emphasised through a number of initiatives, The influence of flows and fluctuating water levels are including: the implementation of the Murray-Darling recognised worldwide as among the most important Basin Ministerial Council’s ‘cap’ on water diversions in factors influencing the condition of wetland ecosystems. the Basin; and the allocation of 150 GL each year for the watering of the Barmah-Millewa Forest Wetlands – The ongoing cooperation between communities and Australia’s largest River Red Gum forest system. governments and the new projects to be implemented through The Living Murray initiative will tackle these A wealth of wetlands issues and help preserve the natural and economic assets The Murray-Darling Basin contains a wealth of wetlands of these valuable areas for future generations. that vary in type from areas of open floodplain that shed More information on The Living Murray initiative and a water as floods recede to floodplain wetlands and copy of the Interim Report of the Scientific Reference billabongs that retain water as flows return to the river Panel for The Living Murray initiative is available online channel and connected anabranches. at www.thelivingmurray.mdbc.gov.au. These habitats house a diverse range of native plants and animals that have evolved to tolerate the unique Below: The value of many wetland sites, home to a variety of bird life, has been recognised through international treaties such as the Japan-Australia environmental conditions they experience across the and the China-Australia Migratory Birds Agreements; Photographer: Basin. Mark Siebentritt The value of some of these sites has been recognised through international treaties such as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) and agreements such as the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) and the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA). A large number of Australia’s nationally important wetlands also lie within the Basin.
Left: The development of the Floodplain Wetlands Management Strategy was a significant step by the MDBC towards better management of the basin’s wetlands; Photographer: Mark Siebentritt
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 37 SHOREBIRD CONSERVATION PROJECT (SCP) – AN UPDATE
Author: Bianca Priest, Shorebird Conservation Officer, WWF Australia
The Shorebird Conservation Project (SCP), funded by the Natural Heritage Trust and co-ordinated by WWF Australia, aims to increase awareness, understanding and Above: Black-winged Stilt; Photographer: Phil Straw involvement of communities in conservation of shorebird Two new project sites were selected in July 2003 and habitat, and where possible enable communities to these include the Clarence Estuary (NSW) and the Great conserve and wisely manage important shorebird sites. Sandy Strait (QLD). The sites were assessed in September The SCP has been welcomed with enthusiasm by and October to provide information on the management individuals and groups at project sites, who are keen to needs of shorebirds. Meetings were held with local learn more about shorebirds, and actively participate in groups to discuss conservation issues and local sites national and international efforts to conserve shorebirds. were then visited to view first hand some of the key management issues. Shorebird projects will now be Seven priority shorebird sites have been selected for a developed in consultation with local groups at these sites range of community-driven shorebird conservation and should commence early in 2004. projects. These sites include Western Port Bay (VIC), Mackay and the Great Sandy Strait (QLD), Roebuck Bay What’s next? (WA), Northern Gulf St Vincent (SA), Clarence Estuary The new WWF Australia website goes live in December (NSW) and Boullanger Bay/Robbins Passage (TAS). and will showcase the SCP and the various community There are eight shorebird projects across five of the co-ordinated shorebird projects happening across seven shorebird sites. Table 1 outlines the projects and Australia – visit www.wwf.org.au. Also, in the new year groups co-ordinating each project. Two shorebird we will be producing a series of shorebird conservation projects have recently been completed – the case studies in Australia, that promote examples of best Conservation Agreements, Yallock Creek Project and practice in addressing threats to shorebirds and their Mackay Shorebird Project. habitat. The SCP is working closely with community groups, government Table 1. Shorebird Projects and non-government organisations to undertake these Project Co-ordinating group Activities projects. Project partners include Roebuck Bay Shorebird Project (WA) Rubibi Land Heritage and x Shorebird Viewing and Cultural Development Group Tours Birds Australia, The Australasian x Installation of interpretive signs x Preparation of a tourist brochure Wader Studies Group, Wetlands Port Gawler Shorebird Project (SA) Two Wells and Districts Tourism and x Installation of an interpretive Trade Association Shorebirds Shelter International-Oceania, Wetland x Fencing Care Australia, Conservation Thompson Beach Shorebird Project Thompson Beach Ratepayers x Installation of 2 Shorebird (SA) Association / Friends of Thompson Interpretive Trails Volunteers Australia and State- Beach x Preparation of a trail brochure Shorebird Logo Project (SA) DC Mallala x Creation of a shorebird logo for based Conservation Councils street signs within the district of Mallala including the Tasmanian Phillip Island Shorebird Project (VIC) Phillip Island Nature Park (PINP) x Installation of interpretive signs Conservation Trust and the (including the preparation of trail notes) to complement the Rhyll Conservation Council of WA. Inlet Walking Trail x Production of shorebird postcards for display at PINP For more information, or to find out Visitor Centre Conservation Agreements, Yallock Ck Birds Australia x Exploring opportunities for how you can get involved in any Project (VIC) conservation agreements with landholders at Yallock Ck, of these projects, please contact Western Port Bay Bianca Priest, Shorebird Mackay Shorebird Project (QLD) Queensland Wader Study Group x Surveying and mapping shorebird habitat in the Mackay Conservation Officer, WWF area x Field identification sessions Australia at [email protected] or x Slide nights Far NW Tasmania Shorebird Project Robbins Passage Coast and x Mapping important ecological, on (02) 8202 1229. (TAS) Landcare Group and Birds Tasmania social, economic and cultural values of the wetlands
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 38 • The habitat or lifecycle of a native species dependent on PROTECTING the wetland being seriously affected; • Substantial and measurable changes in the physico- AUSTRALIA’S chemical status of the wetland (eg changes in salinity, pollutants, nutrients, sediments, temperature); or
RAMSAR • An invasive species that is harmful to the ecological character of the wetland being established in the wetland.
WETLANDS These Guidelines are available in electronic or printed form, and are currently under review. For more information EPBC ACT about the Guidelines, or about the EPBC Act in general, please see the following website: www.deh.gov.au/epbc or call the Department’s Community Information Unit on Author: Australian Government Department of the 1800 803 772. Environment and Heritage Similarly, if you are thinking about taking an action that The Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and might require EPBC approval, or if you are aware of Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) came activities that are likely to have a significant impact on a into force in July 2000 and provides statutory protection Ramsar site, you should contact the Department of the for Australia’s Ramsar wetlands. Environment and Heritage (see contact details above). Under the Act, Ramsar wetlands are sites that are designated under the Convention on Wetlands. These sites have been recognised as being internationally important in terms of ecology, botany, zoology, limnology or hydrology. Australia has 64 Ramsar wetlands, as at December 2003. WORLD The EPBC Act enables the improved management of Ramsar wetlands through the application of consistent management principles (the Australian Ramsar WETLANDS DAY Management Principles, set out in regulations to the Act) and establishes a stronger and more efficient process for 2 FEBRUARY 2004 assessing actions that are likely to have a significant impact on Ramsar wetlands.
The EPBC Act regulates actions that are likely to have a significant impact on the ecological character of a Ramsar WATER FOR WETLANDS - WATER FOR LIFE wetland, including relevant actions outside the boundaries of the wetland. It also regulates other matters that are of national interest, such as threatened species, Check out www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands/day/ migratory species, World Heritage, nuclear actions and index.html for information on activities across Commonwealth marine areas. Australia to celebrate World Wetlands Day 2004. There may be an activity in your area. An action that is likely to have a significant impact on a Ramsar wetland requires assessment under the Act. Actions that are taken in contravention of the Act may attract a civil penalty of up to $5.5 million (for a body corporate), or a criminal penalty of up to $46 200, or up to seven years imprisonment.
The Department of the Environment and Heritage has developed Administrative Guidelines, which help to determine whether an action is likely to have a significant impact. In general terms, an action is likely to have a significant impact on a Ramsar wetland if it is likely to result in:
• Areas of the wetland being destroyed or substantially modified; Above: Lake Dartmouth, Qld; • Substantial and measurable changes in the hydrological Photographer: Renee Moore regime (eg changes in volume, timing, duration and/or frequency of ground or surface flows);
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 39 AUSTRALIAN WETLANDS INFORMATION NETWORK
Author: Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage
The Australian Wetlands Information Network (AWIN) was formed to fulfil obligations under the Ramsar Above: “The Happy Outreach Programme 1999-2002, at national, state and Bianca Priest Wetland”; Artist: local levels in Australia. The Outreach Prorgamme was World Wide Fund for Nature Dylan Ebner revised in 2002, and the Convention’s Programme on Ph (02) 8202 1229 Below: “Grey CEPA 2003-2008 was adopted by the Contracting Parties Email: [email protected] Mangrove Forest - to the Ramsar Convention. AWIN will coordinate the Creche at low tide”, implementation of the Programme on CEPA within Lawrie Kirk Nudgee Beach, Qld; Photographer: John Australia. The Network includes representatives from Murray-Darling Basin Commission Wrench government agencies, non-government organisations and Ph (02) 6279 0100 key education centres across Australia with an interest in Email: [email protected] wetlands education, communication, policy and planning. Christine Prietto (Non-Government Organisation Focal For further information visit Point) www.wetlandsaustralia.com.au The Wetlands Centre MEMBERS OF THE AUSTRALIAN Ph (02) 4955 8673 Email: [email protected] WETLANDS INFORMATION NETWORK: Warren Lee-Long Wetlands International - Oceania Sarah Young (Government Focal Point) Ph (02) 6274 2890 Department of the Environment and Heritage Email: [email protected] Ph (02) 6274 2791 Email: [email protected] Ingrid Albion Parks and Wildlife Service, Tasmania Alison Beard (Secretariat) Ph (03) 6233 3807 Department of the Environment and Heritage Email: [email protected] Ph (02) 6274 2555 Email: [email protected] Alison Curtin Department of Environment and Conservation, NSW Karyn Bradford Ph (02) 9585 6665 Wetland Care Australia Email: [email protected] Ph (08) 8537 0687 Email: [email protected] Gay Deacon Environmental Protection Agency, Queensland Ph (07) 3227 6880 Email: [email protected]
Michaela Birrell Department for Environment and Heritage, SA Ph (08) 8124 4738 Email: [email protected]
Libby McIntyre Revive Our Wetlands, Conservation Volunteers Australia Ph (02) 6882 5986 Mobile 0429 019 309 Email: [email protected]
Wetlands Australia 2004 Water for Wetlands - Water for Life Issue No: 12, Page: 40