|
Issue 13: January 2009 Welcome to the new year edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA). Previous editions of this newsletter are available on the CMA website. To subscribe to Catchment News or make changes to your subscription details please send an email to hcr@cma.nsw.gov.au. Click here to view large text format | Click here for print-friendly version What's happening around the catchments?
On December 19, after more than 30 years of planning, research and community involvement, the first of the Ironbark Creek floodgates was opened, marking a significant step in reinstating tidal flows to the estuarine wetlands of Hexham Swamp. Hexham Swamp is an internationally recognised wetland covering 1,946 hectares just 10 km from Newcastle CBD and is the traditional land of the Awabakal and Worimi people. The floodgates were built on Ironbark Creek in the 1970s to provide low lying urban areas with relief from flooding from the Hunter River and to improve farming productivity in Hexham Swamp. Just a few years later dramatic changes in the vegetation of the area had become apparent, as saltmarsh and mangroves were replaced by pastures and reeds, and alligator weed, pampas grass, and water hyacinth became prolific. Over time the loss of estuarine habitat within the swamp resulted in a huge decline in the numbers of migratory and local shorebirds visiting the swamp, while numbers of feral pigs, foxes and other pests increased. Local populations of fish, prawns and other marine organisms also suffered from the loss of nursery areas. The opening of the first floodgate at Ironbark Creek is a significant milestone in the progress of the Hexham Swamp Rehabilitation Project, a major project of the CMA (and formerly the Hunter Catchment Management Trust). More information on this project is available on the CMA website. The remaining floodgates will be opened progressively over the next few years, dependant on the impacts identified through thorough monitoring. The gates will be periodically closed as required during high tides when there is a risk of floods, and for environmental purposes.
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to reduce your ecological footprint, there are rebates currently being offered by the NSW and Australian Governments that you can take advantage of. Whether you’re considering a solar photovoltaic or solar hot water system, collecting rainwater or grey water, insulating your roof, fitting water-saving shower heads or compact fluorescent lights, there are rebates on offer to help make the process more affordable. To find out more, go to the websites of the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) and the Australian Government's Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA). Central Coast residents, who have been subject to stringent water restrictions for a number of years and are currently on level 3 restrictions can apply for a combined rebate from Gosford and Wyong Councils and the NSW Government of up to $2,500 for the purchase and installation of a new rainwater tank. Find out more on the Gosford/Wyong Councils' Water Authority website. Photo courtesy of the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.
Bitou bush has expanded its distribution rapidly in the last few decades and now occupies over 80 per cent of the NSW coastline. The production of a new field guide on controlling Bitou has been welcomed by community volunteers across the state who work tirelessly to remove the weed from our coastal headlands and dunes. Among them are the Seal Rocks Weed Warriors (pictured), who helped launch the publication at their recent working bee. The group of around 12 members meets four times a year to do battle with Bitou on the headland between No.1 Beach and Boat Beach in an effort to keep on top of the invasive weed and save the area's littoral rainforest. All participants in the working bee received a free copy as did all 26 volunteer Dunecare and Coastcare groups operating in the Great Lakes area. The field guide has been developed as a companion to the New South Wales Bitou Bush Threat Abatement Plan, with funding from the Australian Government in conjunction with a number of coastal Catchment Management Authorities and the Department of Environment and Climate Change. It is available free of charge from the Department of Environment and Climate Change on the Environment Line 1300 555.
Brothers Jim and Lindsay Fraser manage a picturesque property on the fertile river flats of the Little Manning River, about 25 km west of Gloucester, where they operate a dairy farm, and also run some beef cattle. They are the third generation of their family to manage the farm, which their Grandfather bought in 1904. In recent years the brothers have been on the look out for opportunities to improve their farm business and have taken advantage of subsidised training and funding from the CMA to help implement sustainable grazing practices on the property, to improve production while also protecting their natural resources. With the funding they received the Frasers have been able to install a new stock watering system comprising a 90 000 L header tank gravity feeding eight water troughs strategically located across their grazing pastures. This has provided cattle with convenient access to clean water, which means they can graze longer on their allocated pasture without the need to travel for water. It also means they no longer need to access creeks and gullies for water, which will reduce pressure on the sensitive riparian zones and minimise stream bank erosion and nutrient impacts on local waterways. To further protect these fragile areas, the brothers have fenced off 450 m of river frontage and are also considering installing an effluent recycling system to treat dairy effluent for re-use on paddocks and in wash down areas. If you're in the Gloucester area and would like more information on support available to you through the CMA, contact Community Support Officer Albert Mullen on 6558 2304 or 0428 670 524.
Over 4,500 trees have been planted and other remediation works carried out on an area of Muswellbrook Coal mine buffer land near Muscle Creek that has been identified as a salinity outbreak. As part of the project with landowner Muswellbrook Coal, trees have been planted in the salinity recharge and discharge areas and over a kilometre of stream has been fenced off to exclude stock and allow new trees to become established. The site is one of a number identified as priority target areas for salinity remediation through the Muscle Creek Catchment Plan and Salinity Management Plan, developed by the Department of Natural Resources, Muscle Creek Landcare and landholders in the Muscle Creek Catchment. The works were coordinated between the CMA and the landowner Muswellbrook Coal with funding from the Australian Government through the CMA's Incentives Program.
2007/08 served as a time of consolidation for the Hunter-Central Rivers CMA as we worked with our local communities to implement our first full year of activities towards our Catchment Action Plan (CAP). The CAP has been developed to identify priority areas of investment for natural resource management in our region up to 2015, and to ensure our region does our bit in achieving the targets of the NSW Government's State Plan. If you'd like to review some of the highlights of 2007/08, the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority 2007/08 Annual Report is now available on the CMA website. You can also view Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority 2007/08 In Review, which provides a summary of the CMA's progress towards achieving the targets in the NSW State Plan. For a free copy of this publication contact the CMA on 4930 1030.
In July 2008 the CMA invited proposals from nurseries in our region who could supply high quality, cost-effective, provenance tubestock to CMA clients funded through the CMA's grants programs. From the proposals received, six nurseries were recommended and approved by the CMA Board in September 2008 to be on the list of preferred suppliers to provide quality tubestock at competitive prices to CMA clients. The preferred suppliers are Trees In Newcastle, Riverdene Nurseries, Wollar Wholesale Nursery, Koompahtoo - K2 Bush Enterprises, Sustainable Natural Resources Group, and Hunter Valley Native Plants. Contact details and further information on the process for ordering trees for CMA-funded projects are listed on the CMA website. Rehabilitating the Upper Allyn River A new two-year project is currently underway to rehabilitate and protect the Upper Allyn River. The focus of the project is the area upstream of the confluence with Massey Creek to the State Forest boundary, and will include Shellbrook Creek. The area was prioritised for investment as a result of a thorough assessment of the condition and type of native vegetation in the area, threats posed by weeds and other pests (of which Arundo donax, or Giant Reed, is prevalent) and the potential for biodiversity corridors to be established. The current condition and recovery potential of the stream was also assessed using the River Styles framework, which has been developed by Macquarie University (with funding from Land & Water Australia), and adopted by the NSW Government to inform decisions on the management of our rivers. The River Styles framework provides a baseline geomorphic assessment of river character, behaviour and condition, so that management strategies can be designed to 'work with nature', thereby delivering a better return on investment. The CMA's Lower Hunter Project Officer Nick Staheyeff has now begun the process of contacting each of the 27 landholders along the 26 km reach of the Upper Allyn River to discuss the potential for the project and offer support and funding to carry out protection and rehabilitation works, which will include fencing, revegetation, weed control, and installation of off-stream stock water points. The NSW Government has committed $100,000 from NSW Environmental Trust funding to supplement the CMA's investment in the project. For more information, please contact the CMA on 4930 1030.
This 141-page colour illustrated book, written by Chas Keys, is the story of Maitland and its people in times of flood. It examines the causes, patterns, history and consequences of flooding in the area. It also provides vital information on the Lower Hunter Flood Mitigation Scheme and outlines what residents and businesses can do now to prepare for future floods. The book is available for $29.95 (including GST) plus $6 postage and handling. To purchase a copy, contact the CMA on 4930 1030 or go to the CMA website. It is also available at McDonald's Book Sellers, Maitland Mall. Photo of the Belmore Bridge during the June 2007 flood, courtesy of Phil Campbell, State Emergency Service. Personnel changes at the Hunter-Central Rivers CMA There have been a few changes in personnel at the CMA in recent months. Sharon Vernon retired from her position as Program Manager for the Hunter in July and Dean Chapman has since stepped into this role. Glenn Lyons has taken on the role of Program Manager Coastal Lakes and Rivers, focussing on the Central Coast and Lower North Coast programs. Glenn replaces Jeff Palmer, who also retired in October. Joe Thompson, formerly the Hunter Community Engagement Facilitator was recently appointed as Upper Hunter Catchment Coordinator, while Anna Ferguson has stepped into the role of Regional Catchment Coordinator, based on the Central Coast, which is the position vacated by David Green, who was appointed Central Coast Catchment Coordinator in October. Dates for the calendar2-16 January - IMPACT: a changing land The Swansea Library is exhibiting stories and images of our changing land from the NSW State Library's collections until 16 January. Call 4921 0707 for more information. 7-21 January - Coastal Summer Festival A fantastic free program of activities is being offered around our region's beaches by Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Port Stephens Councils throughout January. Go beachcombing, searching for fossils, discovering sea caves, and learning about whale rescues in Lake Macquarie; learn about the science of the surf, colourful crabs, sharks, and sex-changing fish in Newcastle; and check out volcanoes, seagrass, koalas and learn how to snorkel on the glorious beaches of Port Stephens. The full program is available on the Newcastle City Council website and on other participating councils' websites. Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre The Ocean & Coastal Care Initiative (OCCI) and the Community Environment Network (CEN) are offering a full program of events throughout January. Drop in to the Crowne Plaza complex at Terrigal throughout January for marine displays, touch tables, daily talks and other activities. Evening lectures will also be held in Crowne Plaza. Contact CEN on 4349 4756 for full details and bookings. 7-21 January - Rock Pool Rambles A series of Rock Pool Rambles are being held at Norah Head Lighthouse Beach, Copacabana, Pearl Beach, Shelly Beach, Terrigal Haven and Forresters Beach. Phone CEN on 4349 4756 to book. Contact CEN on 4349 4756 for full details and bookings. 8-14 January - Sand Modelling Competitions Competition categories include under 7s, 7-12, and 12-16 at Umina Beach, Wamberal Lagoon, and Soldiers Beach. Contact CEN on 4349 4756 for full details and bookings. 11 January - Marine Magic Coach Tour This one is for the adults. Explore the wonderful marine environments of the Central Coast with expert guides. Departing from Terrigal, this is a full day tour. Morning and afternoon tea are included. Cost is $30 per adult or concession $25. Contact CEN on 4349 4756 for full details and bookings. 14 January - Spot the Seagrass Find out about the creatures that live in the seagrass beds of Wallis Lake on a 'Spot the Seagrass' day. You'll use dip nets and yabby pumps to help find these interesting creatures, while learning how to identify what you find. Contact Isabelle Strachan at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7301 to book or find out more. 16 January - Rock the Reef Fifteen lucky people will get up close and personal with the fish, gastropods and plants that live on and around Hayden's Rock. This snorkelling tour is about opening your eyes to the amazing environment underneath the surface of the sea and finding out what you can do to help protect it. Snorkelling gear is provided but you must be a strong swimmer to participate. Contact Isabelle Strachan at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7301 to book or find out more. 16 January - Rainforest and riparian bush regeneration workshop Be part of a field day and demonstration of bush regeneration, including weeding and revegetation in riparian and rainforest areas. The use of a gas-powered herbicide gun for targeted, efficient lantana control will also be demonstrated. 71 Bowden's Lane, Stroud from 9.00 am-12.00 midday. Contact Joël Dunn at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7317 to book. 18 January - Planting Day at Kooragang Wetlands This month the planting day at the Kooragang Wetland Rehabilitation Project on Ash Island will commence at 8.30 am and morning tea will be provided. Everyone is welcome. For further details contact Peggy Svoboda on 4964 9308. 19 January - Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk Local elder, Jean Oxley will conduct a 'walk and talk' tour of the foreshore between the bridge and Pilot Hill in Forster. Jean will explain why the area is so significant to the Worimi Ancestors, and discuss what we can learn from them to improve our own appreciation and stewardship of the land. Contact Isabelle Strachan at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7301 to book or find out more. 21 January - Cape Hawke Rockpool Ramble Discover the inhabitants of the rocky shores of Cape Hawke and find out why these plants and animals are so important to our coastal ecosystems. Contact Isabelle Strachan at Great Lakes Council on 6591 7301 to book or find out more. 31 January - Habitat for Wildlife Bush Matters workshop Get involved in restoring urban landscapes for wildlife habitat (as well as human). Call CEN on 4349 4491 for more information on this workshop. 31 January - 1 February - World Wetlands Day in the Hunter River Estuary The Kooragang Wetland Rehabilitation Project on Ash Island will be holding a community festival over the weekend of 31 January - 1 February 2009, with activities also scheduled for Monday 2 February to celebrate World Wetlands Day. Come and experience all that Kooragang Wetlands has to offer with activities, tours and workshops on offer for the whole family to enjoy. For further details contact Tiffany La Gerche at the Kooragang Wetlands Rehabilitation Project on 4964 9308. 1 February - World Wetlands Day in Tuggerah Lakes Enjoy breakfast with the birds at Pioneer Dairy in the Tuggerah Lakes area to celebrate World Wetlands Day. Adults: $5, Children: $2.50. Contact CEN on 4349 4756 to book or email: waterwatch@cen.org.au. Supported by Pioneer Dairy Trust and Birding NSW. 15 February - Planting Day at Kooragang Wetlands The monthly planting day at the Kooragang Wetland Rehabilitation Project on Ash Island will commence at 8.30 am and morning tea will be provided. Everyone is welcome. For further details contact Peggy Svoboda on 4964 9308. 21 February - Habitat for Wildlife Wildlife Wonders workshop Get involved in restoring urban landscapes for wildlife habitat (as well as human). Call CEN on 4349 4491 for more information on this workshop. 21 February - Seal Rocks Weed Warriors working bee Join the Seal Rocks Weed Warriors (featured in this newsletter) as they do battle with Bitou on the headland between No.1 Beach and Boat Beach in an effort to keep on top of the invasive weed and save the area's littoral rainforest. Meet at Seal Rocks Shop 9:30 am. Contact Rachel Kempers on 6591 0302 for more information. 1 March - Clean Up Australia Day Clean Up Australia Day turns 20 this year and every year more people are getting involved. If you'd like to volunteer or register a clean up site, visit the Clean Up Australia website or call 1800 282 329. The Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority
|
The first floodgate opened at Hexham Swamp
New Year’s resolution for a global problem
Boost
for Bitou battlers
Taking family
heritage into the future
Targeting
salinity on Muscle Creek
Making
progress towards our targets 
Tree
suppliers for revegetation works
Maitland, city on the Hunter: Fighting floods or living with them?