Young Teams Help Protect Capel Coastal Dunes Feature Plant Funding Calendar
By Rae McPherson
Corymbia calophylla (Pink Marri)
SGIO communityhelp grants
Geographe Network News
Over the last 4 months the Capel LCDC and Shire of Capel have had much appreciated assistance from two teams of young hard-working
- close 21st March Marri is usually white flowered, but can be pink. Plants grown from these people.
may also be pink, particularly if there are several of this colour together. http://www.sgio.com.au/
In October the Bunbury GreenCorps team spent a week in the Shire completing a variety of environmental tasks. At Peppermint Grove Beach Marri like sandy soils and can grow to 40m in height. As they flower in mid grants they completed the fencing at the main beach as well as extending the fencing at Barndi Walk to keep 4WDs off the fragile primary dunes. to late summer, it provides an important food source to many animals during ommunities voice in the catchment... The c Edit During winter the beach width decreases and 4WDrivers seek the stability of the vegetation on the dunes. A three-strand 1.8m wire fence has this season. P ion 25 ink M arri NRM Small Education Grants , Februa proven to be a successful way of discouraging vehicles from this area. ry ‘08 Many thanks to Dennis Cooper for this edition’s Feature Plant. - close June 2008 The team also spent two days placing brushing along the base of the retaining wall in this area. Celebrating the Bay Wind erosion was undermining the wall and it is hoped that this brushing will help stabilise Hal’s Weed Spot Gordon Reid Conservation the sand as well as provide some habitat for local native fauna. The team also put rabbit- In this edition of the Network News we celebrate the amazing marine and coastal environments Grants proof tree guards around some recently planted peppermint trees in the dunes. During the warmer months of the year some of the major weeds to look out for on your property of Geographe Bay. The bay and coastline are important to all of us with important Aboriginal - open year round include woody declared species such as narrow-leaf cotton bush and blackberry and summer-growing cultural sites, a rich maritime heritage and a diverse range of recreational and commercial In December, thanks to the generosity of Iluka, the Capel LCDC was offered the herbaceous weeds such as common heliotrope and pennyroyal. activities. resources of a team from Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA). This team of For more information, or international visitors worked on various projects across the Shire. They worked Typha orientalis (Bull Rush) is another weed that grows actively over summer. This invasive rush rapidly assistance with these grants, Busselton’s long soft sandy coastline abutting the beautiful Geographe Bay is also home to the with Capel LCDC member Gary Scott, completing the fencing of the remaining takes over large areas in wetlands, waterways and drains, out-competing native species and restricting This Issue foreshore dunes north between Barndi Walk and the newly constructed dual use water flow. GeoCatch is undertaking extensive Typha control this summer through the Weed and Feral contact GeoCatch state’s second most extensive seagrass meadows and supports a various and wonderful array of UÊ Ê >`iÌÃÊ>`Ê7iÃÌÊ-ÌÀiiÌÊ path. While working in Capel, the team was also joined by local Greg Mason, who and Healthy Wetlands projects, aiming to reduce the spread of Typha through our waterways and on 9781 0111. marine life. Geographe Bay is thought to be an important calving and nursery area for the Hump ,iÃiÀÛi >`V>ÀiÊÜ>À`Ê found out that you don’t have to be an international tourist to get involved locally wetlands. Priority sites will be revegetated to prevent re-infestation by Typha and other weeds. Back Whale, a feeding ground for the Blue Whale and it provides an important spawning and finalists! in this very worthwhile Conservation Volunteers program. Events Calendar nursery habitat for at least thirteen recreationally and commercially important fish species. There UÊ Ài>ÃÊvÊÌ iÊ-ÌÀi> Welcome Anne and Lanie! are also coral communities between Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste. Again, a big thankyou to Gary Scott for his fencing expertise and time overseeing these UÊ 7>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊEÊ À>ÃtÊ/ iÊÛiÃÊ 5th March: Dreams of the teams and also to Iluka for funding the CVA team. We have two new members of the admin team! Lanie Ayers (top left) is the >`Ê>ÀÌiÀiÃÊvÊi}À>« iÊ >Þ The bay supports very diverse fauna and flora partly because two main oceanic currents are newest addition to the administration team as an Administration Officer Stream launch – Ribbons of Right: Gary Scott and the GreenCorps team at Barndi Walk found in the area – the Leeuwin Current bringing warm water from the north and the Capes UÊ >ÃÌ>Ê >ÌV iÌÃÊÌ>ÌÛiÊ and will be assisting the team while Julie Colegate is on maternity leave. Blue/Department of Fisheries for ®Ê1«`>Ìi Lanie has recently moved to Dunsborough from Perth chasing the south west Current bringing cool water from the south. Many plants and animals travel in these currents and national Seaweek. Activities and lifestyle and is enjoying the change so far! as a result the area has a highly unusual community of tropical and temperate species. There are UÊ ``iÊÌÀi>ÃÕÀiÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Meelup, Our Local Whale A New Environment Officer At The Shire entertainment at the Busselton over 250 fish species and at least 251 species of seaweeds. i}À>« iÊ >ÞÊÃi>}À>ÃÃià By Mathilde Breton Of Busselton Anne (bottom right) has also recently moved from Perth to Cowaramup via a government foreshore. UÊ >}ÃÊqÊÊ1µÕiÊ iVÌ By Mathilde Breton department secondment to act in Julie’s project manager position while she’s on leave. Having worked In October 2007, Council decided to participate in the The southern part of Geographe Bay is included in the proposed Geographe-Capes-Hardy Inlet for police forensics she is finding it a nice change assisting people who work on important conservation UÊ iV >À}Ê-ÌÕ`iÃÊÊ Humpback Icon Project (HIP). HIP helps and encourages 20th March: World Day for Marine Park and to gain greater understanding of the unique and diverse marine communities My name is Mathilde Breton, and I’m the new Environment Officer at issues. i}À>« iÊ >Þ coastal councils and their communities to celebrate Water. two benchmarking studies are being undertaken in the bay and Capes area. Read more about the Shire of Busselton. I come from the City of Wanneroo, where I was the annual humpback whale migration by ‘adopting’ a the seagrass and marine assessments from the researchers at UWA. There is also a fascinating UÊ / iÊ-ÕÌ Ê7iÃÌÊ >ÀiÊ iLÀÃÊ an Environmental Planner for almost 3 years. My partner and I decided Farewell Jackie! humpback whale as their local whale icon. The aim of the 27th March (TBC): River insight into the marine debris issue from Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society and there are articles Project project is to show how valuable these whales are to our to move to Busselton to enjoy a better lifestyle. The environment has so Jackie Bryden (left) has been the trainee Administration Officer for GeoCatch and engineering workshop. on projects that are helping to improve water quality before it enters the bay. UÊ ->ÌÜ>ÌiÀÊ>««i}à communities and acknowledge the ever-growing need to much to offer down here! Department of Water for the past 12 months. Now that her traineeship is up she protect them from the threats they face. UÊ "ÕÀÊ >ÃÌ>Ê*>Ìà is moving on, but the team will miss her efficiency, weekend tales and volleyball 28th March: Margaret River Sound interesting? There are opportunities to volunteer to be part of To stay with the theme of this newsletter skills representing the Busselton office! We wish her the best of luck with her new The Shire of Busselton adopted humpback whale 0296 Festival. these projects, so join with us to enjoy all that our incredible bay UÊ iiÕ«]Ê"ÕÀÊ V>Ê7 >i I love anything that is more or less ventures. and named it ‘Meelup’ in recognition of the historic has to offer and to help conserve the values that UÊ Ê iÜÊ ÛÀiÌÊ"vwViÀÊÌÊ related to the ocean. I’m really whaling carried out in the nineteenth century at Castle 6th April: Capel Fest. make it so special. / iÊ- ÀiÊ"vÊ ÕÃÃiÌ Bay in the Meelup Regional Park. Meelup has been enjoying living a 5 minute walk Congratulations Jules! sighted three times once in 1992 in Dampier and twice from the beach and I’m a keen Fore more information on any of UÊ 9Õ}Ê/i>ÃÊi«Ê*ÀÌiVÌÊ >«iÊ Julie Colegate has taken some time off to have her beautiful baby boy, Jakob, born on 13th December. in 1997 in Kimberley. Let’s hope Meelup is sighted again >ÃÌ>Ê Õià scubadiver, a regular swimmer, Congratulations to the Colegate family – Jules, Jas and Jaylen! these events, please contact this winter when passing by Cape Naturaliste. an enthusiastic sailor, a successful GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Happy reading! So far, 50 Councils across Australia have adopted a fisherman and a motivated soon-to- The Regulars whale, working together for a better protection of the be surfer. humpback whale. UÊ i>ÌÕÀiÊ*>Ì UÊ >½ÃÊ7ii`Ê-«Ì UÊ 7iVi]Ê>ÀiÜiÊ>`Ê Foxbaiting Season! GeoCatch Contact Details Congratulations! Photography by Robyn Knox APB Street address: 72 Duchess St, Busselton UÊ >i`>ÀÊvÊ ÛiÌÃÊEÊÕ`} Postal address: PO Box 269 Busselton WA 6280 Produced by the Geographe Catchment Council, The foxbaiting season is soon to commence. GeoCatch provide free baits to landholders, so if you are Phone: 9781 0111 Fax: 9754 4335 Proudly supported by the Email: [email protected] interested on baiting on your property please contact GeoCatch for an application pack on 9781 0111. Department of Water Website: [email protected]
This newsletter has been printed on 100% recycled paper, by SW Precision Print. Phone (08) 9752 2677. CALM Cadets and West Street Reserve-Landcare Award finalists! Hidden treasures of the Geographe Bay seagrasses The South West Marine Debris Project Saltwater Happenings By Jen Mitchell By Peter Barnes - Photography also by Peter Barnes By Heidi Taylor By Gilbert Stokman
The CALM Cadets from the Geographe Education Support Unit have been selected as a finalist in the Westpac Landcare Education Award category of the Over 6 million tonnes of debris finds its way into the world’s oceans every year. An upcoming seminar in Busselton will take a look at When most of us think about the natural biodiversity of Geographe Bay, we picture the vast seagrass WA Landcare Awards for their work on a coastal reserve. The Cadets, supported by the Department of Environment and Conservation, are the first unit in Dr David Kemp, previous Minister for the Environment and Heritage March 2004 the biodiversity of Geographe Bay and what makes this meadows or the many species of fish, some of which may occasionally end up on the dinner table. WA, and possibly Australia, that caters for students with intellectual and physical disabilities. The objective of this program is to provide students with the area so special. It is targeted at the general public who There is, however, a whole host of other groups of animal which call the seagrasses home and contribute opportunity to actively participate in the conservation of the natural environment and to understand the needs surrounding its management. For the last four years Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society volunteers have been are keen to know more about what lives in the bay to its amazing variety of life. One of the most overlooked groups is the sponges. Researchers from the removing marine debris from Cape to Cape and Geographe Bay beaches in and receive an update on the latest cutting edge University of Western Australia, Peter Barnes and Mark Westera, have recently completed a preliminary the South West, and then collecting data on what they’ve been finding. research being conducted. Educators, fishers, survey of some of the seagrass sponges. The sponges come in a staggering variety of shapes and sizes from This year, volunteers reached a staggering milestone, collecting their business operators and the community Dreams of the Stream Waterways & Drains! The veins and some small pink spheres like living golf balls, to long slender mauve fingers and bright orange volcanoes. In 150,000th piece of marine debris. 18,000 pieces of plastic litter are will find the seminar valuable to have By Jen Mitchell addition, to providing splashes of colour amongst the vast undulating green expanse of the seagrass meadows, like arteries of Geographe Bay floating in every square kilometre of the world’s oceans and about a greater understanding of where miniature apartment blocks, they provide homes and protection for many species of small invertebrates (nudibranchs, worms, By Martin Pritchard and Veronica Piper one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals (including they live, recreate and visit. There is The ‘Dreams of the Stream’ is a Ribbons of Blue/Waterwatch WA project, shrimps, snails) which live on and within the labyrinth of tunnels within a sponge. 30,000 seals) and turtles are killed by plastic marine litter every a great list of speakers lined up so supported by the Department of Fisheries, which aims to educate All the rivers and drains in the Geographe catchment drain into year around the world. come along to learn more about communities about the life and function of catchments, streams and the Geographe Bay. So ultimately everything that is in our rivers and The taxonomy (or identification) of sponges is an extremely difficult task and the specimens collected from Geographe Bay are currently being identified our unique marine environment. ocean, while inspiring them with the drainage networks like fertilisers, pesticides, animal manure, rubbish, by experts from the WA Museum. Given that WA sponges are particularly poorly known and identifications are reliant on often vague or ambiguous With funding from the South West Catchments Council NRM charm of community art. The descriptions from the 19th century, most of the specimens collected will probably not be identified to a known species. Excitingly, this also raises the soaps etc end up in the Bay. This can have devastating affects on the Education Grants Scheme, Coastwest and Keep Australia 7 iÀi\ÊThe Busselton Tennis Club, project involves hundreds of possibility of there being new species of animals (unnamed by science) right on our doorsteps! It is estimated the current preliminary survey uncovered coast and marine life in addition to reducing the water quality of the Beautiful Council this data collection has been transformed Cnr Marine Terrace and Queen St
students and community waterways and drains. some 30-40 species (some known, some unknown). This highlights just how little we know about our natural marine environment and the importance into the South West Marine Debris Project, not only collecting
7 i\ÊWednesday March 5th
members painting aquatic of protecting and conserving biodiversity from the increased pressures of urban development and the threats of global climate change. It would certainly
rubbish from our coastline, but creating a number of educational
Time: 6pm to 9pm
To reduce the amount of pollution entering the Bay we need to be a shame if we lost some of these amazing animals before we even knew they existed. fauna templates (fish, and research tools to bring our fight against marine debris to a higher
Light refreshments will be served
manage our waterways more effectively. Ways to do this are:
dragonflies, frogs, level with a goal of reducing the amount of rubbish in our oceans.
water mites etc) to be Bookings essential as spaces are limited. UÊ ÕÃ}ÊÌ iÊVÀÀiVÌÊ>ÕÌÊvÊviÀÌÃiÀÃ
attached to a temporary We’d like to thank all our volunteers for helping us target this important issue and For bookings and further details please contact Lagoons – A Unique Connection Benchmarking Studies in Geographe Bay UÊ ÌÊviÀÌÃ}ÊLivÀiÊÌÊÀ>Ã helping keep our oceans clean and healthy for our amazing marine and seabird life! P fence using the painted By Mark Westera and Peter Barnes Department of Fisheries Busselton a UÊ viV}Ê`À>ÃÊ>`ÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊvÀÊÃÌV By Lisa Massey in templates meandering PH (08) 97 522 152 t e A date for your diaries - the 2008 Cape to Cape Beach Clean Up will be held over d along in the shape of a GeoCatch has initiated projects that assist land managers with Busselton derives much of its character from its proximity to the Benchmark studies involve scientists gathering baseline data on the Email gilbert.stokman@fish.wa.gov.au m October 11th and 12th!!! To register contact [email protected] fe distribution of plants and animals so that changes in a natural system ac li stream. reducing their nutrient contribution to the waterways and drains near Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries. These estuaries are connected to the ro ic in at can be measured,environmental impacts detected and management ve qu their properties prior to the water reaching the Bay. sea via the Wonnerup Inlet but a natural sand bar across the For more details or to download the full South West Marine Debris Project Report to rteb d a Our aim is to raise awareness in the rates an mouth of Wonnerup Inlet closes the system to the sea for most to be effective. the Minister visit www.oceancare.org.au Easter Holiday Activities community about the value of the ocean If you would like information on our projects or on how you can of the year. We will also be conducting a number of activities over environment, particularly Geographe Bay, to foster understanding that Researchers at the University of Western Australia (UWA) are currently help clean-up and protect our waterways and drains please contact Above right: Heidi Taylor and ACTIV members participating in the Cape to Cape Beach the Easter holiday period, aimed at educating and the fish and wildlife depend on us and to encourage people to reduce Floodgates on the exit channels that connect the Vasse and undertaking two such studies in the Geographe Bay and Capes GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Clean Up raising awareness about our marine environment. For their impacts on this fantastic place. Wonnerup estuaries to the Wonnerup Inlet have altered the Regions that will help future managers look after these important further information contact Gilbert. estuaries so that they are now shallow, winter-fresh/summer- marine environments. saline lagoons, a natural feature that does not occur anywhere The first study is investigating seagrass health and water quality in Protect Our Oceans!!! Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) Update else in Western Australia. Geographe Bay, the receiving water body for nutrient runoff from By Kirrily White These unique lagoons regularly support peak numbers of drains, rivers and groundwater. This project stemmed from a scoping
The Vasse - Geographe Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) is now well underway and is making progress towards the development of a water quality 25,000-35,000 waterbirds and provide the most significant study initiated by GeoCatch in 2006. Nutrients such as nitrates and Our Coastal Plants
By Richard Clark
improvement plan for Geographe Bay, the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands and their catchments. The plan will provide a road map to reduce nutrients in phosphates from fertilisers or leaky sewer pipes can increase growth
regular breeding habitat for Black Swan Cygnus atratus in WA.
of algal species on seagrass stems and leaves, resulting in shading,
Geographe Bay and the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands by using scientific models and decision support tools. It is scheduled for release for public comment
Approximately 30% of the 2008 list of Busselton’s Geographe Community Landcare Nursery (about 40 species)
An extensive area of the Vasse-Wonnerup Wetland System is listed reduced photosynthesis and possible death of the seagrasses. As
in late 2008.
grows along the coastline of the Geographe catchment, some of these species common to large stretches of under the Ramsar Convention (The Convention on Wetlands of seagrasses provide important food and habitat for a vast array of
the Western Australian (and Australian) coastline. In time, the nursery hopes to grow more coastal species, UÊ ,iViÌÊ>V iÛiiÌÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Ê«ÀiVÌÊVÕ`iÊV«iÌÊvÊÌ iÊvÜ}ÊV«iÌÃ\ International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat) which fish and invertebrates this can have devastating effects on the entire
many of which are described in Elizabeth Rippey and Barbara Rowland’s excellent Coastal Plants (1995/2004 UÊ ÊiV}V>ÊV >À>VÌiÀÊ-Ì>ÌiiÌÊvÀÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊ-ÞÃÌiÆ was signed in Ramsar, Iran, on 2nd February 1971. The site covers ecosystem.
– second edition, UWA Press). UÊ iÌ>i`Ê>`ÊÕÃiÊ>««}ÊvÊÌ iÊV>ÌV iÌÆ more than 1,115 ha of seasonal brackish lakes and marshes and
UÊ Ê>Õ`ÌÊvÊÕÀL>ÊÕÌÀiÌÊÕÃiÆ a saline lagoon. The second study extends beyond Geographe Bay out along the At the nursery, we are excited about new propagation successes with a few coastal species we have been trialling. Capes coast to Augusta, looking at a range of marine habitats and UÊ /ÜÊVÃiVÕÌÛiÊÞi>ÀÃÊvÊÃ>«}Ê>`Ê>>ÞÃÃÊvÊÌ iÊ>VÀ>}>iÊ>`Ê>VÀ« ÞÌiÊVÕÌiÃÊÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÆ One of these is Scaevola crassifolia (by seed and cutting), another, Frankenia pauciflora (cutting), and another,
UÊ ÊÀiÛiÜÊvÊÌ iÊiV}V>ÊÛ>ÕiÃÊvÊÌ iÊi}À>« iÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊVÕ`}Ê«À«Ãi`ÊÌiÀÊiÛÀiÌ>ÊyÜÊLiVÌÛiÃÊvÀÊÌ iÃiÊÃÞÃÌiÃÆÊ>` The Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries the types of marine plants and animals that live there. The study
F a
Diplolaena dampieri (by seed and cutting). Other species we are trialling: Threlkeldia diffusa, Hemiandra glabra, ici os
nia nod
and its floodgates are very will provide information that will enable detection of changes in UÊ ÊÛ>À>ÌÊÌÊVÕ`iÊ>ÊiÝÌiÃÛiÊÃÕÀÛiÞÊvÊÌ iÊÃi`iÌÊ`i«Ì Ê>`ÊV >À>VÌiÀÃÌVÃÊvÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊÌÊ«ÀÛiÊÕÀÊÕ`iÀÃÌ>`}Ê
Myoporum caprarioides and oppositifolium, Alyxia buxifolia, and Thryptomene saxicola.
important to Busselton’s
of nutrient dynamics in the system. marine communities and also examine the success of the proposed
future by providing vital sanctuary zones of the Capes Marine Reserve. So far the results show
The Geographe catchment - and the wider region extending around the Cape Naturaliste corner of the Shire of Busselton - boasts many coastal plant
A water quality model and a decision support system being developed by the Department of Water and the Department for Agriculture and Food are waterbird habitat; flood an amazingly diverse array of species, including 92 species of fish,
species including marine plants; shore and dune plants that tolerate the occasional splash of the sea; plants that tussle with the elements of storm
close to being ready for direct application to the catchment. These tools will be used to provide detailed information on the current nutrient loads from and storm-surge protection 251 species of algae, and numerous species of sea stars, urchins and and seaspray, often defiantly establishing themselves too near to the sea and dying after a severe storm, but some finding a safe haven quite near
each sub catchment; the land uses that nutrients are sourced from and the likely nutrient reduction and financial cost of a series of nutrient management for low-lying coastal gastropods. to the shoreline, and managing to ride out the storms; and plants that are associated with the sea by growing in estuarine areas like the Toby Inlet,
options. properties; and significant
Vasse-Wonnerup, or even in man-made drains that run to the sea.
Both studies aim to provide the necessary scientific information nature conservation,
By integrating science and management actions, CCI and an accredited Water Quality Improvement Plan will underpin a long term investment strategy landscape and aesthetic to detect and hence help minimise the impacts that increased Our coastal plants show surprising variety. A list of these can be found on the nursery website. http://geographelandcarenursery.mysouthwest.com. to improve water quality in the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands system and Geographe Bay. For further information about the CCI project contact Kirrily developmental pressures in the region may have on our amazing values. au/ > New Magazine > Land & Sea > Coastal Plants.
White on 97810 111. marine environment. Sa mp hir e fl ats CALM Cadets and West Street Reserve-Landcare Award finalists! Hidden treasures of the Geographe Bay seagrasses The South West Marine Debris Project Saltwater Happenings By Jen Mitchell By Peter Barnes - Photography also by Peter Barnes By Heidi Taylor By Gilbert Stokman
The CALM Cadets from the Geographe Education Support Unit have been selected as a finalist in the Westpac Landcare Education Award category of the Over 6 million tonnes of debris finds its way into the world’s oceans every year. An upcoming seminar in Busselton will take a look at When most of us think about the natural biodiversity of Geographe Bay, we picture the vast seagrass WA Landcare Awards for their work on a coastal reserve. The Cadets, supported by the Department of Environment and Conservation, are the first unit in Dr David Kemp, previous Minister for the Environment and Heritage March 2004 the biodiversity of Geographe Bay and what makes this meadows or the many species of fish, some of which may occasionally end up on the dinner table. WA, and possibly Australia, that caters for students with intellectual and physical disabilities. The objective of this program is to provide students with the area so special. It is targeted at the general public who There is, however, a whole host of other groups of animal which call the seagrasses home and contribute opportunity to actively participate in the conservation of the natural environment and to understand the needs surrounding its management. For the last four years Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society volunteers have been are keen to know more about what lives in the bay to its amazing variety of life. One of the most overlooked groups is the sponges. Researchers from the removing marine debris from Cape to Cape and Geographe Bay beaches in and receive an update on the latest cutting edge University of Western Australia, Peter Barnes and Mark Westera, have recently completed a preliminary the South West, and then collecting data on what they’ve been finding. research being conducted. Educators, fishers, survey of some of the seagrass sponges. The sponges come in a staggering variety of shapes and sizes from This year, volunteers reached a staggering milestone, collecting their business operators and the community Dreams of the Stream Waterways & Drains! The veins and some small pink spheres like living golf balls, to long slender mauve fingers and bright orange volcanoes. In 150,000th piece of marine debris. 18,000 pieces of plastic litter are will find the seminar valuable to have By Jen Mitchell addition, to providing splashes of colour amongst the vast undulating green expanse of the seagrass meadows, like arteries of Geographe Bay floating in every square kilometre of the world’s oceans and about a greater understanding of where miniature apartment blocks, they provide homes and protection for many species of small invertebrates (nudibranchs, worms, By Martin Pritchard and Veronica Piper one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals (including they live, recreate and visit. There is The ‘Dreams of the Stream’ is a Ribbons of Blue/Waterwatch WA project, shrimps, snails) which live on and within the labyrinth of tunnels within a sponge. 30,000 seals) and turtles are killed by plastic marine litter every a great list of speakers lined up so supported by the Department of Fisheries, which aims to educate All the rivers and drains in the Geographe catchment drain into year around the world. come along to learn more about communities about the life and function of catchments, streams and the Geographe Bay. So ultimately everything that is in our rivers and The taxonomy (or identification) of sponges is an extremely difficult task and the specimens collected from Geographe Bay are currently being identified our unique marine environment. ocean, while inspiring them with the drainage networks like fertilisers, pesticides, animal manure, rubbish, by experts from the WA Museum. Given that WA sponges are particularly poorly known and identifications are reliant on often vague or ambiguous With funding from the South West Catchments Council NRM charm of community art. The descriptions from the 19th century, most of the specimens collected will probably not be identified to a known species. Excitingly, this also raises the soaps etc end up in the Bay. This can have devastating affects on the Education Grants Scheme, Coastwest and Keep Australia 7 iÀi\ÊThe Busselton Tennis Club, project involves hundreds of possibility of there being new species of animals (unnamed by science) right on our doorsteps! It is estimated the current preliminary survey uncovered coast and marine life in addition to reducing the water quality of the Beautiful Council this data collection has been transformed Cnr Marine Terrace and Queen St
students and community waterways and drains. some 30-40 species (some known, some unknown). This highlights just how little we know about our natural marine environment and the importance into the South West Marine Debris Project, not only collecting
7 i\ÊWednesday March 5th
members painting aquatic of protecting and conserving biodiversity from the increased pressures of urban development and the threats of global climate change. It would certainly
rubbish from our coastline, but creating a number of educational
Time: 6pm to 9pm
To reduce the amount of pollution entering the Bay we need to be a shame if we lost some of these amazing animals before we even knew they existed. fauna templates (fish, and research tools to bring our fight against marine debris to a higher
Light refreshments will be served
manage our waterways more effectively. Ways to do this are:
dragonflies, frogs, level with a goal of reducing the amount of rubbish in our oceans.
water mites etc) to be Bookings essential as spaces are limited. UÊ ÕÃ}ÊÌ iÊVÀÀiVÌÊ>ÕÌÊvÊviÀÌÃiÀÃ
attached to a temporary We’d like to thank all our volunteers for helping us target this important issue and For bookings and further details please contact Lagoons – A Unique Connection Benchmarking Studies in Geographe Bay UÊ ÌÊviÀÌÃ}ÊLivÀiÊÌÊÀ>Ã helping keep our oceans clean and healthy for our amazing marine and seabird life! P fence using the painted By Mark Westera and Peter Barnes Department of Fisheries Busselton a UÊ viV}Ê`À>ÃÊ>`ÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊvÀÊÃÌV By Lisa Massey in templates meandering PH (08) 97 522 152 t e A date for your diaries - the 2008 Cape to Cape Beach Clean Up will be held over d along in the shape of a GeoCatch has initiated projects that assist land managers with Busselton derives much of its character from its proximity to the Benchmark studies involve scientists gathering baseline data on the Email gilbert.stokman@fish.wa.gov.au m October 11th and 12th!!! To register contact [email protected] fe distribution of plants and animals so that changes in a natural system ac li stream. reducing their nutrient contribution to the waterways and drains near Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries. These estuaries are connected to the ro ic in at can be measured,environmental impacts detected and management ve qu their properties prior to the water reaching the Bay. sea via the Wonnerup Inlet but a natural sand bar across the For more details or to download the full South West Marine Debris Project Report to rteb d a Our aim is to raise awareness in the rates an mouth of Wonnerup Inlet closes the system to the sea for most to be effective. the Minister visit www.oceancare.org.au Easter Holiday Activities community about the value of the ocean If you would like information on our projects or on how you can of the year. We will also be conducting a number of activities over environment, particularly Geographe Bay, to foster understanding that Researchers at the University of Western Australia (UWA) are currently help clean-up and protect our waterways and drains please contact Above right: Heidi Taylor and ACTIV members participating in the Cape to Cape Beach the Easter holiday period, aimed at educating and the fish and wildlife depend on us and to encourage people to reduce Floodgates on the exit channels that connect the Vasse and undertaking two such studies in the Geographe Bay and Capes GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Clean Up raising awareness about our marine environment. For their impacts on this fantastic place. Wonnerup estuaries to the Wonnerup Inlet have altered the Regions that will help future managers look after these important further information contact Gilbert. estuaries so that they are now shallow, winter-fresh/summer- marine environments. saline lagoons, a natural feature that does not occur anywhere The first study is investigating seagrass health and water quality in Protect Our Oceans!!! Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) Update else in Western Australia. Geographe Bay, the receiving water body for nutrient runoff from By Kirrily White These unique lagoons regularly support peak numbers of drains, rivers and groundwater. This project stemmed from a scoping
The Vasse - Geographe Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) is now well underway and is making progress towards the development of a water quality 25,000-35,000 waterbirds and provide the most significant study initiated by GeoCatch in 2006. Nutrients such as nitrates and Our Coastal Plants
By Richard Clark
improvement plan for Geographe Bay, the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands and their catchments. The plan will provide a road map to reduce nutrients in phosphates from fertilisers or leaky sewer pipes can increase growth
regular breeding habitat for Black Swan Cygnus atratus in WA.
of algal species on seagrass stems and leaves, resulting in shading,
Geographe Bay and the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands by using scientific models and decision support tools. It is scheduled for release for public comment
Approximately 30% of the 2008 list of Busselton’s Geographe Community Landcare Nursery (about 40 species)
An extensive area of the Vasse-Wonnerup Wetland System is listed reduced photosynthesis and possible death of the seagrasses. As
in late 2008.
grows along the coastline of the Geographe catchment, some of these species common to large stretches of under the Ramsar Convention (The Convention on Wetlands of seagrasses provide important food and habitat for a vast array of
the Western Australian (and Australian) coastline. In time, the nursery hopes to grow more coastal species, UÊ ,iViÌÊ>V iÛiiÌÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Ê«ÀiVÌÊVÕ`iÊV«iÌÊvÊÌ iÊvÜ}ÊV«iÌÃ\ International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat) which fish and invertebrates this can have devastating effects on the entire
many of which are described in Elizabeth Rippey and Barbara Rowland’s excellent Coastal Plants (1995/2004 UÊ ÊiV}V>ÊV >À>VÌiÀÊ-Ì>ÌiiÌÊvÀÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊ-ÞÃÌiÆ was signed in Ramsar, Iran, on 2nd February 1971. The site covers ecosystem.
– second edition, UWA Press). UÊ iÌ>i`Ê>`ÊÕÃiÊ>««}ÊvÊÌ iÊV>ÌV iÌÆ more than 1,115 ha of seasonal brackish lakes and marshes and
UÊ Ê>Õ`ÌÊvÊÕÀL>ÊÕÌÀiÌÊÕÃiÆ a saline lagoon. The second study extends beyond Geographe Bay out along the At the nursery, we are excited about new propagation successes with a few coastal species we have been trialling. Capes coast to Augusta, looking at a range of marine habitats and UÊ /ÜÊVÃiVÕÌÛiÊÞi>ÀÃÊvÊÃ>«}Ê>`Ê>>ÞÃÃÊvÊÌ iÊ>VÀ>}>iÊ>`Ê>VÀ« ÞÌiÊVÕÌiÃÊÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÆ One of these is Scaevola crassifolia (by seed and cutting), another, Frankenia pauciflora (cutting), and another,
UÊ ÊÀiÛiÜÊvÊÌ iÊiV}V>ÊÛ>ÕiÃÊvÊÌ iÊi}À>« iÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊVÕ`}Ê«À«Ãi`ÊÌiÀÊiÛÀiÌ>ÊyÜÊLiVÌÛiÃÊvÀÊÌ iÃiÊÃÞÃÌiÃÆÊ>` The Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries the types of marine plants and animals that live there. The study
F a
Diplolaena dampieri (by seed and cutting). Other species we are trialling: Threlkeldia diffusa, Hemiandra glabra, ici os
nia nod
and its floodgates are very will provide information that will enable detection of changes in UÊ ÊÛ>À>ÌÊÌÊVÕ`iÊ>ÊiÝÌiÃÛiÊÃÕÀÛiÞÊvÊÌ iÊÃi`iÌÊ`i«Ì Ê>`ÊV >À>VÌiÀÃÌVÃÊvÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊÌÊ«ÀÛiÊÕÀÊÕ`iÀÃÌ>`}Ê
Myoporum caprarioides and oppositifolium, Alyxia buxifolia, and Thryptomene saxicola.
important to Busselton’s
of nutrient dynamics in the system. marine communities and also examine the success of the proposed
future by providing vital sanctuary zones of the Capes Marine Reserve. So far the results show
The Geographe catchment - and the wider region extending around the Cape Naturaliste corner of the Shire of Busselton - boasts many coastal plant
A water quality model and a decision support system being developed by the Department of Water and the Department for Agriculture and Food are waterbird habitat; flood an amazingly diverse array of species, including 92 species of fish,
species including marine plants; shore and dune plants that tolerate the occasional splash of the sea; plants that tussle with the elements of storm
close to being ready for direct application to the catchment. These tools will be used to provide detailed information on the current nutrient loads from and storm-surge protection 251 species of algae, and numerous species of sea stars, urchins and and seaspray, often defiantly establishing themselves too near to the sea and dying after a severe storm, but some finding a safe haven quite near
each sub catchment; the land uses that nutrients are sourced from and the likely nutrient reduction and financial cost of a series of nutrient management for low-lying coastal gastropods. to the shoreline, and managing to ride out the storms; and plants that are associated with the sea by growing in estuarine areas like the Toby Inlet,
options. properties; and significant
Vasse-Wonnerup, or even in man-made drains that run to the sea.
Both studies aim to provide the necessary scientific information nature conservation,
By integrating science and management actions, CCI and an accredited Water Quality Improvement Plan will underpin a long term investment strategy landscape and aesthetic to detect and hence help minimise the impacts that increased Our coastal plants show surprising variety. A list of these can be found on the nursery website. http://geographelandcarenursery.mysouthwest.com. to improve water quality in the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands system and Geographe Bay. For further information about the CCI project contact Kirrily developmental pressures in the region may have on our amazing values. au/ > New Magazine > Land & Sea > Coastal Plants.
White on 97810 111. marine environment. Sa mp hir e fl ats CALM Cadets and West Street Reserve-Landcare Award finalists! Hidden treasures of the Geographe Bay seagrasses The South West Marine Debris Project Saltwater Happenings By Jen Mitchell By Peter Barnes - Photography also by Peter Barnes By Heidi Taylor By Gilbert Stokman
The CALM Cadets from the Geographe Education Support Unit have been selected as a finalist in the Westpac Landcare Education Award category of the Over 6 million tonnes of debris finds its way into the world’s oceans every year. An upcoming seminar in Busselton will take a look at When most of us think about the natural biodiversity of Geographe Bay, we picture the vast seagrass WA Landcare Awards for their work on a coastal reserve. The Cadets, supported by the Department of Environment and Conservation, are the first unit in Dr David Kemp, previous Minister for the Environment and Heritage March 2004 the biodiversity of Geographe Bay and what makes this meadows or the many species of fish, some of which may occasionally end up on the dinner table. WA, and possibly Australia, that caters for students with intellectual and physical disabilities. The objective of this program is to provide students with the area so special. It is targeted at the general public who There is, however, a whole host of other groups of animal which call the seagrasses home and contribute opportunity to actively participate in the conservation of the natural environment and to understand the needs surrounding its management. For the last four years Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society volunteers have been are keen to know more about what lives in the bay to its amazing variety of life. One of the most overlooked groups is the sponges. Researchers from the removing marine debris from Cape to Cape and Geographe Bay beaches in and receive an update on the latest cutting edge University of Western Australia, Peter Barnes and Mark Westera, have recently completed a preliminary the South West, and then collecting data on what they’ve been finding. research being conducted. Educators, fishers, survey of some of the seagrass sponges. The sponges come in a staggering variety of shapes and sizes from This year, volunteers reached a staggering milestone, collecting their business operators and the community Dreams of the Stream Waterways & Drains! The veins and some small pink spheres like living golf balls, to long slender mauve fingers and bright orange volcanoes. In 150,000th piece of marine debris. 18,000 pieces of plastic litter are will find the seminar valuable to have By Jen Mitchell addition, to providing splashes of colour amongst the vast undulating green expanse of the seagrass meadows, like arteries of Geographe Bay floating in every square kilometre of the world’s oceans and about a greater understanding of where miniature apartment blocks, they provide homes and protection for many species of small invertebrates (nudibranchs, worms, By Martin Pritchard and Veronica Piper one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals (including they live, recreate and visit. There is The ‘Dreams of the Stream’ is a Ribbons of Blue/Waterwatch WA project, shrimps, snails) which live on and within the labyrinth of tunnels within a sponge. 30,000 seals) and turtles are killed by plastic marine litter every a great list of speakers lined up so supported by the Department of Fisheries, which aims to educate All the rivers and drains in the Geographe catchment drain into year around the world. come along to learn more about communities about the life and function of catchments, streams and the Geographe Bay. So ultimately everything that is in our rivers and The taxonomy (or identification) of sponges is an extremely difficult task and the specimens collected from Geographe Bay are currently being identified our unique marine environment. ocean, while inspiring them with the drainage networks like fertilisers, pesticides, animal manure, rubbish, by experts from the WA Museum. Given that WA sponges are particularly poorly known and identifications are reliant on often vague or ambiguous With funding from the South West Catchments Council NRM charm of community art. The descriptions from the 19th century, most of the specimens collected will probably not be identified to a known species. Excitingly, this also raises the soaps etc end up in the Bay. This can have devastating affects on the Education Grants Scheme, Coastwest and Keep Australia 7 iÀi\ÊThe Busselton Tennis Club, project involves hundreds of possibility of there being new species of animals (unnamed by science) right on our doorsteps! It is estimated the current preliminary survey uncovered coast and marine life in addition to reducing the water quality of the Beautiful Council this data collection has been transformed Cnr Marine Terrace and Queen St
students and community waterways and drains. some 30-40 species (some known, some unknown). This highlights just how little we know about our natural marine environment and the importance into the South West Marine Debris Project, not only collecting
7 i\ÊWednesday March 5th
members painting aquatic of protecting and conserving biodiversity from the increased pressures of urban development and the threats of global climate change. It would certainly
rubbish from our coastline, but creating a number of educational
Time: 6pm to 9pm
To reduce the amount of pollution entering the Bay we need to be a shame if we lost some of these amazing animals before we even knew they existed. fauna templates (fish, and research tools to bring our fight against marine debris to a higher
Light refreshments will be served
manage our waterways more effectively. Ways to do this are:
dragonflies, frogs, level with a goal of reducing the amount of rubbish in our oceans.
water mites etc) to be Bookings essential as spaces are limited. UÊ ÕÃ}ÊÌ iÊVÀÀiVÌÊ>ÕÌÊvÊviÀÌÃiÀÃ
attached to a temporary We’d like to thank all our volunteers for helping us target this important issue and For bookings and further details please contact Lagoons – A Unique Connection Benchmarking Studies in Geographe Bay UÊ ÌÊviÀÌÃ}ÊLivÀiÊÌÊÀ>Ã helping keep our oceans clean and healthy for our amazing marine and seabird life! P fence using the painted By Mark Westera and Peter Barnes Department of Fisheries Busselton a UÊ viV}Ê`À>ÃÊ>`ÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊvÀÊÃÌV By Lisa Massey in templates meandering PH (08) 97 522 152 t e A date for your diaries - the 2008 Cape to Cape Beach Clean Up will be held over d along in the shape of a GeoCatch has initiated projects that assist land managers with Busselton derives much of its character from its proximity to the Benchmark studies involve scientists gathering baseline data on the Email gilbert.stokman@fish.wa.gov.au m October 11th and 12th!!! To register contact [email protected] fe distribution of plants and animals so that changes in a natural system ac li stream. reducing their nutrient contribution to the waterways and drains near Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries. These estuaries are connected to the ro ic in at can be measured,environmental impacts detected and management ve qu their properties prior to the water reaching the Bay. sea via the Wonnerup Inlet but a natural sand bar across the For more details or to download the full South West Marine Debris Project Report to rteb d a Our aim is to raise awareness in the rates an mouth of Wonnerup Inlet closes the system to the sea for most to be effective. the Minister visit www.oceancare.org.au Easter Holiday Activities community about the value of the ocean If you would like information on our projects or on how you can of the year. We will also be conducting a number of activities over environment, particularly Geographe Bay, to foster understanding that Researchers at the University of Western Australia (UWA) are currently help clean-up and protect our waterways and drains please contact Above right: Heidi Taylor and ACTIV members participating in the Cape to Cape Beach the Easter holiday period, aimed at educating and the fish and wildlife depend on us and to encourage people to reduce Floodgates on the exit channels that connect the Vasse and undertaking two such studies in the Geographe Bay and Capes GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Clean Up raising awareness about our marine environment. For their impacts on this fantastic place. Wonnerup estuaries to the Wonnerup Inlet have altered the Regions that will help future managers look after these important further information contact Gilbert. estuaries so that they are now shallow, winter-fresh/summer- marine environments. saline lagoons, a natural feature that does not occur anywhere The first study is investigating seagrass health and water quality in Protect Our Oceans!!! Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) Update else in Western Australia. Geographe Bay, the receiving water body for nutrient runoff from By Kirrily White These unique lagoons regularly support peak numbers of drains, rivers and groundwater. This project stemmed from a scoping
The Vasse - Geographe Coastal Catchments Initiative (CCI) is now well underway and is making progress towards the development of a water quality 25,000-35,000 waterbirds and provide the most significant study initiated by GeoCatch in 2006. Nutrients such as nitrates and Our Coastal Plants
By Richard Clark
improvement plan for Geographe Bay, the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands and their catchments. The plan will provide a road map to reduce nutrients in phosphates from fertilisers or leaky sewer pipes can increase growth regular breeding habitat for Black Swan Cygnus atratus in WA.
of algal species on seagrass stems and leaves, resulting in shading,
Geographe Bay and the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands by using scientific models and decision support tools. It is scheduled for release for public comment
Approximately 30% of the 2008 list of Busselton’s Geographe Community Landcare Nursery (about 40 species)
An extensive area of the Vasse-Wonnerup Wetland System is listed reduced photosynthesis and possible death of the seagrasses. As
in late 2008.
grows along the coastline of the Geographe catchment, some of these species common to large stretches of under the Ramsar Convention (The Convention on Wetlands of seagrasses provide important food and habitat for a vast array of
the Western Australian (and Australian) coastline. In time, the nursery hopes to grow more coastal species, UÊ ,iViÌÊ>V iÛiiÌÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Ê«ÀiVÌÊVÕ`iÊV«iÌÊvÊÌ iÊvÜ}ÊV«iÌÃ\ International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat) which fish and invertebrates this can have devastating effects on the entire
many of which are described in Elizabeth Rippey and Barbara Rowland’s excellent Coastal Plants (1995/2004 UÊ ÊiV}V>ÊV >À>VÌiÀÊ-Ì>ÌiiÌÊvÀÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊ-ÞÃÌiÆ was signed in Ramsar, Iran, on 2nd February 1971. The site covers ecosystem.
– second edition, UWA Press). UÊ iÌ>i`Ê>`ÊÕÃiÊ>««}ÊvÊÌ iÊV>ÌV iÌÆ more than 1,115 ha of seasonal brackish lakes and marshes and
UÊ Ê>Õ`ÌÊvÊÕÀL>ÊÕÌÀiÌÊÕÃiÆ a saline lagoon. The second study extends beyond Geographe Bay out along the At the nursery, we are excited about new propagation successes with a few coastal species we have been trialling. Capes coast to Augusta, looking at a range of marine habitats and UÊ /ÜÊVÃiVÕÌÛiÊÞi>ÀÃÊvÊÃ>«}Ê>`Ê>>ÞÃÃÊvÊÌ iÊ>VÀ>}>iÊ>`Ê>VÀ« ÞÌiÊVÕÌiÃÊÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÆ One of these is Scaevola crassifolia (by seed and cutting), another, Frankenia pauciflora (cutting), and another,
UÊ ÊÀiÛiÜÊvÊÌ iÊiV}V>ÊÛ>ÕiÃÊvÊÌ iÊi}À>« iÊÜ>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊVÕ`}Ê«À«Ãi`ÊÌiÀÊiÛÀiÌ>ÊyÜÊLiVÌÛiÃÊvÀÊÌ iÃiÊÃÞÃÌiÃÆÊ>` The Vasse-Wonnerup estuaries the types of marine plants and animals that live there. The study
F a
Diplolaena dampieri (by seed and cutting). Other species we are trialling: Threlkeldia diffusa, Hemiandra glabra, ici os
nia nod
and its floodgates are very will provide information that will enable detection of changes in UÊ ÊÛ>À>ÌÊÌÊVÕ`iÊ>ÊiÝÌiÃÛiÊÃÕÀÛiÞÊvÊÌ iÊÃi`iÌÊ`i«Ì Ê>`ÊV >À>VÌiÀÃÌVÃÊvÊÌ iÊ6>ÃÃiÊ7iÀÕ«Ê7iÌ>`ÃÊÌÊ«ÀÛiÊÕÀÊÕ`iÀÃÌ>`}Ê
Myoporum caprarioides and oppositifolium, Alyxia buxifolia, and Thryptomene saxicola.
important to Busselton’s
of nutrient dynamics in the system. marine communities and also examine the success of the proposed
future by providing vital sanctuary zones of the Capes Marine Reserve. So far the results show
The Geographe catchment - and the wider region extending around the Cape Naturaliste corner of the Shire of Busselton - boasts many coastal plant
A water quality model and a decision support system being developed by the Department of Water and the Department for Agriculture and Food are waterbird habitat; flood an amazingly diverse array of species, including 92 species of fish,
species including marine plants; shore and dune plants that tolerate the occasional splash of the sea; plants that tussle with the elements of storm
close to being ready for direct application to the catchment. These tools will be used to provide detailed information on the current nutrient loads from and storm-surge protection 251 species of algae, and numerous species of sea stars, urchins and and seaspray, often defiantly establishing themselves too near to the sea and dying after a severe storm, but some finding a safe haven quite near
each sub catchment; the land uses that nutrients are sourced from and the likely nutrient reduction and financial cost of a series of nutrient management for low-lying coastal gastropods. to the shoreline, and managing to ride out the storms; and plants that are associated with the sea by growing in estuarine areas like the Toby Inlet,
options. properties; and significant
Vasse-Wonnerup, or even in man-made drains that run to the sea.
Both studies aim to provide the necessary scientific information nature conservation,
By integrating science and management actions, CCI and an accredited Water Quality Improvement Plan will underpin a long term investment strategy landscape and aesthetic to detect and hence help minimise the impacts that increased Our coastal plants show surprising variety. A list of these can be found on the nursery website. http://geographelandcarenursery.mysouthwest.com. to improve water quality in the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands system and Geographe Bay. For further information about the CCI project contact Kirrily developmental pressures in the region may have on our amazing values. au/ > New Magazine > Land & Sea > Coastal Plants.
White on 97810 111. marine environment. Sa mp hir e fl ats
Young Teams Help Protect Capel Coastal Dunes Feature Plant Funding Calendar
By Rae McPherson
Corymbia calophylla (Pink Marri)
SGIO communityhelp grants
Geographe Network News
Over the last 4 months the Capel LCDC and Shire of Capel have had much appreciated assistance from two teams of young hard-working
- close 21st March Marri is usually white flowered, but can be pink. Plants grown from these people.
may also be pink, particularly if there are several of this colour together. http://www.sgio.com.au/
In October the Bunbury GreenCorps team spent a week in the Shire completing a variety of environmental tasks. At Peppermint Grove Beach Marri like sandy soils and can grow to 40m in height. As they flower in mid grants they completed the fencing at the main beach as well as extending the fencing at Barndi Walk to keep 4WDs off the fragile primary dunes. to late summer, it provides an important food source to many animals during ommunities voice in the catchment... The c Edit During winter the beach width decreases and 4WDrivers seek the stability of the vegetation on the dunes. A three-strand 1.8m wire fence has this season. P ion 25 ink M arri NRM Small Education Grants , Februa proven to be a successful way of discouraging vehicles from this area. ry ‘08 Many thanks to Dennis Cooper for this edition’s Feature Plant. - close June 2008 The team also spent two days placing brushing along the base of the retaining wall in this area. Celebrating the Bay Wind erosion was undermining the wall and it is hoped that this brushing will help stabilise Hal’s Weed Spot Gordon Reid Conservation the sand as well as provide some habitat for local native fauna. The team also put rabbit- In this edition of the Network News we celebrate the amazing marine and coastal environments Grants proof tree guards around some recently planted peppermint trees in the dunes. During the warmer months of the year some of the major weeds to look out for on your property of Geographe Bay. The bay and coastline are important to all of us with important Aboriginal - open year round include woody declared species such as narrow-leaf cotton bush and blackberry and summer-growing cultural sites, a rich maritime heritage and a diverse range of recreational and commercial In December, thanks to the generosity of Iluka, the Capel LCDC was offered the herbaceous weeds such as common heliotrope and pennyroyal. activities. resources of a team from Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA). This team of For more information, or international visitors worked on various projects across the Shire. They worked Typha orientalis (Bull Rush) is another weed that grows actively over summer. This invasive rush rapidly assistance with these grants, Busselton’s long soft sandy coastline abutting the beautiful Geographe Bay is also home to the with Capel LCDC member Gary Scott, completing the fencing of the remaining takes over large areas in wetlands, waterways and drains, out-competing native species and restricting This Issue foreshore dunes north between Barndi Walk and the newly constructed dual use water flow. GeoCatch is undertaking extensive Typha control this summer through the Weed and Feral contact GeoCatch state’s second most extensive seagrass meadows and supports a various and wonderful array of UÊ Ê >`iÌÃÊ>`Ê7iÃÌÊ-ÌÀiiÌÊ path. While working in Capel, the team was also joined by local Greg Mason, who and Healthy Wetlands projects, aiming to reduce the spread of Typha through our waterways and on 9781 0111. marine life. Geographe Bay is thought to be an important calving and nursery area for the Hump ,iÃiÀÛi >`V>ÀiÊÜ>À`Ê found out that you don’t have to be an international tourist to get involved locally wetlands. Priority sites will be revegetated to prevent re-infestation by Typha and other weeds. Back Whale, a feeding ground for the Blue Whale and it provides an important spawning and finalists! in this very worthwhile Conservation Volunteers program. Events Calendar nursery habitat for at least thirteen recreationally and commercially important fish species. There UÊ Ài>ÃÊvÊÌ iÊ-ÌÀi> Welcome Anne and Lanie! are also coral communities between Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste. Again, a big thankyou to Gary Scott for his fencing expertise and time overseeing these UÊ 7>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊEÊ À>ÃtÊ/ iÊÛiÃÊ 5th March: Dreams of the teams and also to Iluka for funding the CVA team. We have two new members of the admin team! Lanie Ayers (top left) is the >`Ê>ÀÌiÀiÃÊvÊi}À>« iÊ >Þ The bay supports very diverse fauna and flora partly because two main oceanic currents are newest addition to the administration team as an Administration Officer Stream launch – Ribbons of Right: Gary Scott and the GreenCorps team at Barndi Walk found in the area – the Leeuwin Current bringing warm water from the north and the Capes UÊ >ÃÌ>Ê >ÌV iÌÃÊÌ>ÌÛiÊ and will be assisting the team while Julie Colegate is on maternity leave. Blue/Department of Fisheries for ®Ê1«`>Ìi Lanie has recently moved to Dunsborough from Perth chasing the south west Current bringing cool water from the south. Many plants and animals travel in these currents and national Seaweek. Activities and lifestyle and is enjoying the change so far! as a result the area has a highly unusual community of tropical and temperate species. There are UÊ ``iÊÌÀi>ÃÕÀiÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Meelup, Our Local Whale A New Environment Officer At The Shire entertainment at the Busselton over 250 fish species and at least 251 species of seaweeds. i}À>« iÊ >ÞÊÃi>}À>ÃÃià By Mathilde Breton Of Busselton Anne (bottom right) has also recently moved from Perth to Cowaramup via a government foreshore. UÊ >}ÃÊqÊÊ1µÕiÊ iVÌ By Mathilde Breton department secondment to act in Julie’s project manager position while she’s on leave. Having worked In October 2007, Council decided to participate in the The southern part of Geographe Bay is included in the proposed Geographe-Capes-Hardy Inlet for police forensics she is finding it a nice change assisting people who work on important conservation UÊ iV >À}Ê-ÌÕ`iÃÊÊ Humpback Icon Project (HIP). HIP helps and encourages 20th March: World Day for Marine Park and to gain greater understanding of the unique and diverse marine communities My name is Mathilde Breton, and I’m the new Environment Officer at issues. i}À>« iÊ >Þ coastal councils and their communities to celebrate Water. two benchmarking studies are being undertaken in the bay and Capes area. Read more about the Shire of Busselton. I come from the City of Wanneroo, where I was the annual humpback whale migration by ‘adopting’ a the seagrass and marine assessments from the researchers at UWA. There is also a fascinating UÊ / iÊ-ÕÌ Ê7iÃÌÊ >ÀiÊ iLÀÃÊ an Environmental Planner for almost 3 years. My partner and I decided Farewell Jackie! humpback whale as their local whale icon. The aim of the 27th March (TBC): River insight into the marine debris issue from Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society and there are articles Project project is to show how valuable these whales are to our to move to Busselton to enjoy a better lifestyle. The environment has so Jackie Bryden (left) has been the trainee Administration Officer for GeoCatch and engineering workshop. on projects that are helping to improve water quality before it enters the bay. UÊ ->ÌÜ>ÌiÀÊ>««i}à communities and acknowledge the ever-growing need to much to offer down here! Department of Water for the past 12 months. Now that her traineeship is up she protect them from the threats they face. UÊ "ÕÀÊ >ÃÌ>Ê*>Ìà is moving on, but the team will miss her efficiency, weekend tales and volleyball 28th March: Margaret River Sound interesting? There are opportunities to volunteer to be part of To stay with the theme of this newsletter skills representing the Busselton office! We wish her the best of luck with her new The Shire of Busselton adopted humpback whale 0296 Festival. these projects, so join with us to enjoy all that our incredible bay UÊ iiÕ«]Ê"ÕÀÊ V>Ê7 >i I love anything that is more or less ventures. and named it ‘Meelup’ in recognition of the historic has to offer and to help conserve the values that UÊ Ê iÜÊ ÛÀiÌÊ"vwViÀÊÌÊ related to the ocean. I’m really whaling carried out in the nineteenth century at Castle 6th April: Capel Fest. make it so special. / iÊ- ÀiÊ"vÊ ÕÃÃiÌ Bay in the Meelup Regional Park. Meelup has been enjoying living a 5 minute walk Congratulations Jules! sighted three times once in 1992 in Dampier and twice from the beach and I’m a keen Fore more information on any of UÊ 9Õ}Ê/i>ÃÊi«Ê*ÀÌiVÌÊ >«iÊ Julie Colegate has taken some time off to have her beautiful baby boy, Jakob, born on 13th December. in 1997 in Kimberley. Let’s hope Meelup is sighted again >ÃÌ>Ê Õià scubadiver, a regular swimmer, Congratulations to the Colegate family – Jules, Jas and Jaylen! these events, please contact this winter when passing by Cape Naturaliste. an enthusiastic sailor, a successful GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Happy reading! So far, 50 Councils across Australia have adopted a fisherman and a motivated soon-to- The Regulars whale, working together for a better protection of the be surfer. humpback whale. UÊ i>ÌÕÀiÊ*>Ì UÊ >½ÃÊ7ii`Ê-«Ì UÊ 7iVi]Ê>ÀiÜiÊ>`Ê Foxbaiting Season! GeoCatch Contact Details Congratulations! Photography by Robyn Knox APB Street address: 72 Duchess St, Busselton UÊ >i`>ÀÊvÊ ÛiÌÃÊEÊÕ`} Postal address: PO Box 269 Busselton WA 6280 Produced by the Geographe Catchment Council, The foxbaiting season is soon to commence. GeoCatch provide free baits to landholders, so if you are Phone: 9781 0111 Fax: 9754 4335 Proudly supported by the Email: [email protected] interested on baiting on your property please contact GeoCatch for an application pack on 9781 0111. Department of Water Website: [email protected]
This newsletter has been printed on 100% recycled paper, by SW Precision Print. Phone (08) 9752 2677.
Young Teams Help Protect Capel Coastal Dunes Feature Plant Funding Calendar
By Rae McPherson
Corymbia calophylla (Pink Marri)
SGIO communityhelp grants
Geographe Network News
Over the last 4 months the Capel LCDC and Shire of Capel have had much appreciated assistance from two teams of young hard-working
- close 21st March Marri is usually white flowered, but can be pink. Plants grown from these people.
may also be pink, particularly if there are several of this colour together. http://www.sgio.com.au/
In October the Bunbury GreenCorps team spent a week in the Shire completing a variety of environmental tasks. At Peppermint Grove Beach Marri like sandy soils and can grow to 40m in height. As they flower in mid grants they completed the fencing at the main beach as well as extending the fencing at Barndi Walk to keep 4WDs off the fragile primary dunes. to late summer, it provides an important food source to many animals during ommunities voice in the catchment... The c Edit During winter the beach width decreases and 4WDrivers seek the stability of the vegetation on the dunes. A three-strand 1.8m wire fence has this season. P ion 25 ink M arri NRM Small Education Grants , Februa proven to be a successful way of discouraging vehicles from this area. ry ‘08 Many thanks to Dennis Cooper for this edition’s Feature Plant. - close June 2008 The team also spent two days placing brushing along the base of the retaining wall in this area. Celebrating the Bay Wind erosion was undermining the wall and it is hoped that this brushing will help stabilise Hal’s Weed Spot Gordon Reid Conservation the sand as well as provide some habitat for local native fauna. The team also put rabbit- In this edition of the Network News we celebrate the amazing marine and coastal environments Grants proof tree guards around some recently planted peppermint trees in the dunes. During the warmer months of the year some of the major weeds to look out for on your property of Geographe Bay. The bay and coastline are important to all of us with important Aboriginal - open year round include woody declared species such as narrow-leaf cotton bush and blackberry and summer-growing cultural sites, a rich maritime heritage and a diverse range of recreational and commercial In December, thanks to the generosity of Iluka, the Capel LCDC was offered the herbaceous weeds such as common heliotrope and pennyroyal. activities. resources of a team from Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA). This team of For more information, or international visitors worked on various projects across the Shire. They worked Typha orientalis (Bull Rush) is another weed that grows actively over summer. This invasive rush rapidly assistance with these grants, Busselton’s long soft sandy coastline abutting the beautiful Geographe Bay is also home to the with Capel LCDC member Gary Scott, completing the fencing of the remaining takes over large areas in wetlands, waterways and drains, out-competing native species and restricting This Issue foreshore dunes north between Barndi Walk and the newly constructed dual use water flow. GeoCatch is undertaking extensive Typha control this summer through the Weed and Feral contact GeoCatch state’s second most extensive seagrass meadows and supports a various and wonderful array of UÊ Ê >`iÌÃÊ>`Ê7iÃÌÊ-ÌÀiiÌÊ path. While working in Capel, the team was also joined by local Greg Mason, who and Healthy Wetlands projects, aiming to reduce the spread of Typha through our waterways and on 9781 0111. marine life. Geographe Bay is thought to be an important calving and nursery area for the Hump ,iÃiÀÛi >`V>ÀiÊÜ>À`Ê found out that you don’t have to be an international tourist to get involved locally wetlands. Priority sites will be revegetated to prevent re-infestation by Typha and other weeds. Back Whale, a feeding ground for the Blue Whale and it provides an important spawning and finalists! in this very worthwhile Conservation Volunteers program. Events Calendar nursery habitat for at least thirteen recreationally and commercially important fish species. There UÊ Ài>ÃÊvÊÌ iÊ-ÌÀi> Welcome Anne and Lanie! are also coral communities between Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste. Again, a big thankyou to Gary Scott for his fencing expertise and time overseeing these UÊ 7>ÌiÀÜ>ÞÃÊEÊ À>ÃtÊ/ iÊÛiÃÊ 5th March: Dreams of the teams and also to Iluka for funding the CVA team. We have two new members of the admin team! Lanie Ayers (top left) is the >`Ê>ÀÌiÀiÃÊvÊi}À>« iÊ >Þ The bay supports very diverse fauna and flora partly because two main oceanic currents are newest addition to the administration team as an Administration Officer Stream launch – Ribbons of Right: Gary Scott and the GreenCorps team at Barndi Walk found in the area – the Leeuwin Current bringing warm water from the north and the Capes UÊ >ÃÌ>Ê >ÌV iÌÃÊÌ>ÌÛiÊ and will be assisting the team while Julie Colegate is on maternity leave. Blue/Department of Fisheries for ®Ê1«`>Ìi Lanie has recently moved to Dunsborough from Perth chasing the south west Current bringing cool water from the south. Many plants and animals travel in these currents and national Seaweek. Activities and lifestyle and is enjoying the change so far! as a result the area has a highly unusual community of tropical and temperate species. There are UÊ ``iÊÌÀi>ÃÕÀiÃÊvÊÌ iÊ Meelup, Our Local Whale A New Environment Officer At The Shire entertainment at the Busselton over 250 fish species and at least 251 species of seaweeds. i}À>« iÊ >ÞÊÃi>}À>ÃÃià By Mathilde Breton Of Busselton Anne (bottom right) has also recently moved from Perth to Cowaramup via a government foreshore. UÊ >}ÃÊqÊÊ1µÕiÊ iVÌ By Mathilde Breton department secondment to act in Julie’s project manager position while she’s on leave. Having worked In October 2007, Council decided to participate in the The southern part of Geographe Bay is included in the proposed Geographe-Capes-Hardy Inlet for police forensics she is finding it a nice change assisting people who work on important conservation UÊ iV >À}Ê-ÌÕ`iÃÊÊ Humpback Icon Project (HIP). HIP helps and encourages 20th March: World Day for Marine Park and to gain greater understanding of the unique and diverse marine communities My name is Mathilde Breton, and I’m the new Environment Officer at issues. i}À>« iÊ >Þ coastal councils and their communities to celebrate Water. two benchmarking studies are being undertaken in the bay and Capes area. Read more about the Shire of Busselton. I come from the City of Wanneroo, where I was the annual humpback whale migration by ‘adopting’ a the seagrass and marine assessments from the researchers at UWA. There is also a fascinating UÊ / iÊ-ÕÌ Ê7iÃÌÊ >ÀiÊ iLÀÃÊ an Environmental Planner for almost 3 years. My partner and I decided Farewell Jackie! humpback whale as their local whale icon. The aim of the 27th March (TBC): River insight into the marine debris issue from Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society and there are articles Project project is to show how valuable these whales are to our to move to Busselton to enjoy a better lifestyle. The environment has so Jackie Bryden (left) has been the trainee Administration Officer for GeoCatch and engineering workshop. on projects that are helping to improve water quality before it enters the bay. UÊ ->ÌÜ>ÌiÀÊ>««i}à communities and acknowledge the ever-growing need to much to offer down here! Department of Water for the past 12 months. Now that her traineeship is up she protect them from the threats they face. UÊ "ÕÀÊ >ÃÌ>Ê*>Ìà is moving on, but the team will miss her efficiency, weekend tales and volleyball 28th March: Margaret River Sound interesting? There are opportunities to volunteer to be part of To stay with the theme of this newsletter skills representing the Busselton office! We wish her the best of luck with her new The Shire of Busselton adopted humpback whale 0296 Festival. these projects, so join with us to enjoy all that our incredible bay UÊ iiÕ«]Ê"ÕÀÊ V>Ê7 >i I love anything that is more or less ventures. and named it ‘Meelup’ in recognition of the historic has to offer and to help conserve the values that UÊ Ê iÜÊ ÛÀiÌÊ"vwViÀÊÌÊ related to the ocean. I’m really whaling carried out in the nineteenth century at Castle 6th April: Capel Fest. make it so special. / iÊ- ÀiÊ"vÊ ÕÃÃiÌ Bay in the Meelup Regional Park. Meelup has been enjoying living a 5 minute walk Congratulations Jules! sighted three times once in 1992 in Dampier and twice from the beach and I’m a keen Fore more information on any of UÊ 9Õ}Ê/i>ÃÊi«Ê*ÀÌiVÌÊ >«iÊ Julie Colegate has taken some time off to have her beautiful baby boy, Jakob, born on 13th December. in 1997 in Kimberley. Let’s hope Meelup is sighted again >ÃÌ>Ê Õià scubadiver, a regular swimmer, Congratulations to the Colegate family – Jules, Jas and Jaylen! these events, please contact this winter when passing by Cape Naturaliste. an enthusiastic sailor, a successful GeoCatch on 9781 0111. Happy reading! So far, 50 Councils across Australia have adopted a fisherman and a motivated soon-to- The Regulars whale, working together for a better protection of the be surfer. humpback whale. UÊ i>ÌÕÀiÊ*>Ì UÊ >½ÃÊ7ii`Ê-«Ì UÊ 7iVi]Ê>ÀiÜiÊ>`Ê Foxbaiting Season! GeoCatch Contact Details Congratulations! Photography by Robyn Knox APB Street address: 72 Duchess St, Busselton UÊ >i`>ÀÊvÊ ÛiÌÃÊEÊÕ`} Postal address: PO Box 269 Busselton WA 6280 Produced by the Geographe Catchment Council, The foxbaiting season is soon to commence. GeoCatch provide free baits to landholders, so if you are Phone: 9781 0111 Fax: 9754 4335 Proudly supported by the Email: [email protected] interested on baiting on your property please contact GeoCatch for an application pack on 9781 0111. Department of Water Website: [email protected]
This newsletter has been printed on 100% recycled paper, by SW Precision Print. Phone (08) 9752 2677.