SHORTLAND WETLANDS Site Management Plan...
Transcript of SHORTLAND WETLANDS Site Management Plan...
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 - 2023
SHORTLAND WETLANDS
Site Management Plan – version 1
2013- 2023
Photo by Carolyn Gillard 2010
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 – 2023
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The Wetlands Centre Australia
PO Box 292 WALLSEND NSW 2287
Phone 02 49516466 Fax 02 4950 1875
Email [email protected] Web www.wetlands.org.au
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Author
1990 Geoff Winning
2002 Update Peter Ekert
2013 Update Ken Conway/Paul Trute
Editors
Christine Prietto
Carolyn Gillard
Review Panel
Paddy Lighfoot Steve Wisniewski
Ken Bayliss Geoff Nicholls
Carolyn Gillard Jenny Castles
Stephen Schmidt John Simpson
Alan Stuart Paul Trute
Cal Cotter (HCRCMA) Mary Greenwood
Paddy Lightfoot Georgina Usher (SEWPAC)
Louise Duff
Community consultation workshop participants
Carolyn Gillard Paddy Lightfoot
Jenny Castles Steve Wisniewski
Cal Cotter (HCRCMA) Paul Trute
Matt Stow Ken Conway
Stuart Greville (RPS Consultants)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS III
TABLE OF CONTENTS IV
INTRODUCTION 2
1.0 ABOUT THIS PLAN 3
1.1 PURPOSE OF SITE MANAGEMENT PLAN ......... 3
1.2 MANAGEMENT AIMS ............................ 4
1.3 CONSULTATIVE FRAMEWORK ................... 4
1.4 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK AND POLICIES ....... 4
2.0 ABOUT THE WETLANDS CENTRE 7
2.1 HISTORY ....................................... 7
2.2 THE WETLANDS CENTRE TODAY ................ 8
2.3 FUNDING ....................................... 9
3.0 SITE LOCATION 10
3.1 SHORTLAND WETLANDS ...................... 10
3.2 THE HUNTER ESTUARY ....................... 10
3.3 IRONBARK CREEK CATCHMENT ............... 11
3.4 HEXHAM SWAMP ............................. 11
4.0 NATURAL VALUES 14
4.1 ECOLOGICAL CHARACTER .................... 14
RAMSAR ROLLING REVIEW: ....................... 14
4.2 FLORA OF SHORTLAND WETLANDS ........... 15
4.2.1 Description .......................... 15
4.2.2 Values ................................ 16
4.2.3 HWCA Nursery ...................... 17
4.3 FAUNA OF SHORTLAND WETLANDS ........... 18
4.3.1 Birds .................................. 18
4.3.2 Mammals ............................ 21
4.3.3 Amphibians and Reptiles ......... 23
4.3.4 Re-Introduction of the Green and
Golden Bell Frog .......................... 24
4.3.5 Fish ................................... 26
4.3.6 Macro-Invertebrates .............. 26
4.4 HYDROLOGY ................................. 28
4.4.1 Description .......................... 28
4.4.2 Values ................................ 30
5.0 SOCIAL VALUES 32
5.1 CULTURAL HERITAGE ........................ 32
5.2 EDUCATION .................................. 33
5.3 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ................... 35
5.4 RESEARCH ................................... 35
5.5 PARTNERSHIPS ............................... 36
6.0 ECONOMIC VALUES 37
6.1 RECREATION AND TOURISM ................... 37
6.2 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAPACITY
BUILDING ......................................... 39
7.0 MANAGEMENT AIMS 40
7.1 AIMS ......................................... 40
7.2 KEY RISKS.................................... 42
7.2.1 HYDROLOGY AND POLLUTION .............. 42
7.2.2 PEST PLANTS .............................. 43
7.2.3 PEST ANIMALS ............................. 44
7.3 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS FOR NATURAL VALUES 46
7.4 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS FOR SOCIAL VALUES . 63
7. 5 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS FOR ECONOMIC VALUES
.................................................. 67
8.0 ORGANISATION 71
8.1 FUNDING ..................................... 71
8.2 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE AND WORK FLOWS
.................................................. 72
8.3 MONITORING ................................. 72
8.4 REVIEW ...................................... 73
9.0 REFERENCES (TO BE UPDATED) 73
APPENDICES 79
APPENDIX 1: MAPS ............................... 79
APPENDIX 2: CRITERIA FOR RAMSAR LISTING OF
SHORTLAND WETLANDS ........................... 84
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APPENDIX 3 ENTRY IN THE DIRECTORY OF
IMPORTANT WETLANDS ........................... 85
APPENDIX 4 PLANT SPECIES LIST .............. 88
APPENDIX 5 SHORTLAND WETLANDS FLORA
RESTORATION 98
Annual Planting Record ................. 101
APPENDIX 6 FAUNA SPECIES LISTS ........... 102
Appendix 6.1 Bird Species .............. 102
APPENDIX 6.2 BUTTERFLIES OF THE
WETLANDS CENTRE ...................... 109
APPENDIX 6.3 MOTHS OF THE
WETLANDS CENTRE ...................... 110
Appendix 6.4 FROGS OF THE WETLANDS
CENTRE..................................... 110
Appendix 6.5 Terrestrial Mammal
species recorded at Shortland Wetlands
.............................................. 110
Appendix 6.6 Reptiles recorded at
Shortland Wetlands in 2010 ............ 111
Appendix 6.7 Bats of HWCA and
Surrounding Wetlands ................... 111
Appendix 6.8 Fish species recorded at
Shortland Wetlands ...................... 112
Appendix 6.9 Macro-Invertibrates .... 112
APPENDIX 7 VISITOR PROFILES TO BE
UPDATED 113
Visitor Motivation . Error! Bookmark not
defined.114
Visitor Satisfaction Error! Bookmark not
defined.114
APPENDIX 8 WETLAND VALUES .............. 115
APPENDIX 9 ................................ 116115
AUSTRALIAN RAMSAR MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
............................................ 116115
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INTRODUCTION
Shortland Wetlands Centre Limited was formed in 1986 with two overriding objectives: to
rehabilitate a degraded wetland and to foster an understanding and appreciation for wetlands
through communication, education and public awareness. It was to become the Lower Hunter’s first
successful wetland rehabilitation project, paving the way for three other significant wetland
projects in the ensuing years. It was Australia’s first dedicated wetlands centre, modelled on and
assisted by the famous Slimbridge in the UK. Today trading as Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia, it
remains Australia’s only dedicated Wetlands Centre managed by a community organisation.
This Site Management Plan (SMP) builds on the 2002-2009 SMP, compiled as part of the 2002
successful Ramsar Convention listing process by the then Chairman Christine Prietto and her team of
dedicated assistants. This SMP also reflects the Australian Ramsar Management Principles as
described in the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999
(EPBC Act) and the Ramsar Convention’s Frameworks for managing wetlands of international
importance and other wetlands (2000). It builds on years of progress on the site rehabilitation
process, changes to the surrounding estuary as a result of the Hexham Swamp Rehabilitation Project
and changes necessary to ensure the financial survival and the changing composition of the staff and
volunteer base over time.
Today Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia, represents a mature wetland rehabilitation project
involving a complex of restored wetlands and artificial wetlands. The environmental, social and
economic values of Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia, complement values delivered by other
wetlands in the Hunter Estuary. Visitor facilities and services offered by the centre, including a new
$2.5 million education facility opened in 2011, add important dimensions to those values. The
involvement of the community in the rehabilitation and on-going management of the wetlands has
become an important facet of the centre's operations as, has the need to promote an active tourism
and education face to ensure financial viability.
The Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia is dedicated to maintaining its central role in the
conservation of the Hunter Estuary as:
a demonstration site for community involvement and wise-use of wetlands;
a public access gateway to wetlands in the Lower Hunter; and
a national non-government focal point for wetland communication, education and public
awareness.
The adoption and implementation of this Site Management Plan, along with the guiding principles of
its Ramsar site listing, will support Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia to realise that vision.
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1.0 ABOUT THIS PLAN
1.1 Purpose of Site Management Plan
Shortland Wetlands are located 12 km northwest of the city of Newcastle, New South Wales,
Australia. They cover 45 hectares of freshwater ponds, marshes and tidal canoe trail in the Ironbark
Creek Catchment on the Central Coastal Plain of the Hunter Valley. The Wetlands could be
described as Urban or Peri-Urban wetlands as they lie within the boundaries of Newcastle City.
The primary purpose of this Site Management Plan (SMP) is to ensure we manage Shortland Wetlands
Ramsar Site in order to maintain its ecological character and values. It covers the period 2013-2023
and is an update to the two previous management plans that covered the periods 1990-2012. A
major review has been necessitated following the 2008 Hydrology and Water Quality Study, the 2010
Environmental Impact Statement – Hydrology and Ecological Restoration, and a further 10 years of
restoration works since 2002, coupled with financial imperatives which play a major role in framing
this plan.
As private owners and Site Managers of a Ramsar listed wetland we are required under the EPBC Act
to seek approval prior to undertaking an action within or outside a declared Ramsar wetland if the
action has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on the ecological character of the
Ramsar wetland. The action could be a project, a development, an undertaking, an activity or
series of activities, or an alteration to any of these things.1
Site Managers/landowners are encouraged to consider the Australian Ramsar management
principles when developing management arrangements, including to:
manage the Ramsar site to maintain ecological character through applying the principles of
wise use and sustainable resource management. This may be through the development and
implementation of a management plan or system for the site;
have procedures and monitoring in place to detect if any threatening processes are likely to,
or have altered the site’s ecological character. This will help to identify if there are any
actual or likely changes to ecological character of the site;
take action to manage or remediate Ramsar sites that have undergone an actual or likely
change in ecological character.
Site managers/landowners are also encouraged to:
report any actual or likely changes in ecological character to the Australian Government;
undertake required site level updates and reporting as required (e.g. Ramsar Information
Sheet updates);
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seek guidance and assistance about managing and representing the needs of wetlands, if
required;
inform the Australian and relevant state governments of any intention to transfer ownership or
otherwise sell land on which the wetland is situated; and
notify future land managers of the property’s Ramsar status, should the property be sold or
otherwise change ownership.
As private Site Managers we are being actively supported by the relevant federal and state
government departments and instrumentalities in implementing our site responsibilities and
fulfilling our Ramsar obligations. It is acknowledge that the updating of this plan has been made
possible with the financial assistance of the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management
Authority.
1.2 Management Aims
To maximise the values for biodiversity and sustainable ecological function.
To maximise the opportunities for education and communication without diminishing
ecological function.
To involve the indigenous and non indigenous community in the effective management of
the wetlands.
To actively demonstrate “wise sustainable use” of wetlands.
To improve the opportunities for recreation and eco-tourism without diminishing ecological
function.
To ensure a safe workplace for staff, volunteers and visitors.
1.3 Consultative Framework
This SMP was initiated with various planning workshops and at The Wetlands Centre during 2011 and
12 and was also a point of focus of the Site Management Committee and HWCA Board in 2012.
A number of comprehensive technical reviews and documents were compiled from 2008 to 2012 to
inform the review process comprehensive technical review of appendices was conducted by
members of the Hunter Bird Observers and Australian Plants Society and Native Animal Trust fund.
Stephen Schmidt representing the Awabakal Local Aboriginal Land Council (ALALC) also assisted in
indigenous and other related matters. Following a final opportunity for comment from HWCA
volunteers and Stakeholders in early May 2013, the Site Management Plan will be adopted by the
Board of Directors in June 2013
1.4 Legislative Framework and Policies
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The Convention on Wetlands commonly known as The Ramsar
Convention was signed in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971.
Australia became a signatory in 1974. Countries that are parties
to this convention undertake to implement policies that guarantee
wise and sustainable use of their wetlands.
In Australia by 2002, 57 wetlands have been designated on the
Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance (Environment
Australia 2002). The Hunter Ramsar Committee was successful in
seeking Ramsar nomination for Shortland Wetlands in November
2002.
To be listed as a Ramsar site, wetlands must meet one or more
internationally accepted criteria in relation to their zoology,
botany, ecology, hydrology, limnology or importance to
waterfowl. Information on how Shortland Wetlands contributes to
these criteria is detailed in Appendix 2.
The Ramsar Convention states that the primary purpose of
management of a declared Ramsar wetland must be:
To describe and maintain the ecological character of the wetland.
To formulate and implement planning that promotes conservation, wise and sustainable use of
the wetland.
The ecological character of Shortland Wetlands is described later in this SMP, and in the Ramsar
Information Sheet prepared as part of the nomination process. Management strategies to maintain
the ecological character are provided in this SMP and in the Memorandum of Understanding with
government agencies and local council. Table 1. Summary of the Ramsar Criteria met by Shortland
Wetlands
Criterion 1 It provides a representative example of a near-natural wetland type
characteristic of the Sydney Basin biogeographic region.
Criterion 4 It supports a range of bird species at a critical stage in their life cycles,
and provides refuge during adverse conditions
In addition to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, there are 178 wetlands
listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia (Environment Australia, 2001).
Shortland Wetlands have featured in this Directory since 1992. A copy of the report from the
Directory is provided in Appendix 3.
The Ramsar Convention
gives the following
definitions adopted in
2005
“Wise use of wetlands is
the maintenance of their
ecological character,
achieved through the
implementation of
ecosystem approaches,
within the context of
sustainable development”
“Sustainable use yields
the greatest continuous
benefit to present
generations while
maintaining its potential
to meet the needs and
aspirations of future
generations”.
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Migratory species that occur on the site are protected under international agreements ratified by
the Australian Government. Australia's listed migratory species are animals that are listed under
the:
Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (the Bonn Convention);
China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement 1986 (CAMBA); and
Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement 1986 (JAMBA).
Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement 2006 (ROKAMBA)
“The East Asian–Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP): Australia views ongoing support for the
EAAFP as the primary mechanism through which to address loss of critical migratory waterbird
habitat throughout the Flyway, and supports ongoing development of a Flyway Site Network to aid
continued migration of waterbird species”. (Georgina Usher Aust Govt report to NSW Ramsar
Managers Network April 2013).
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) regulates actions
that will, or are likely to, have a significant impact on any matter of national environmental
significance, including migratory species and Ramsar wetlands. Actions with potential to have a
significant impact on a listed migratory species or a Ramsar listed wetland must be subject to a
rigorous environmental assessment and approval regime. The EPBC Act also sets out the Australian
Ramsar Management Principles for Ramsar listed wetlands. More information on the Ramsar
Convention is featured below.
This Site Management Plan is also guided by the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
(TSC Act 1995). This Act sets out legislative responsibilities to conserve threatened species,
populations and ecological communities of animals and plants that occur in NSW.
Some areas of Shortland Wetlands are covered by State Environmental Planning Policy 14 (SEPP 14) –
Coastal Wetlands, which restricts development of these areas. Appendix 1 shows a map of Shortland
Wetlands showing the SEPP 14 wetlands and their boundaries. SEPP 14 ensures coastal wetlands are
preserved and protected for environmental and economic reasons. Land clearing, levee
construction, drainage work or filling may only be carried out within these wetlands with the
consent of the local council and the agreement of the Director-General of Planning NSW. Such
development also requires an environmental impact statement to be lodged with a development
application.
This SMP recognises the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Action Plan 2013 and CAP Targets
developed by the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (HRCMA) and the NSW
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Department of Water Conservation to set strategic directions for the management of natural
resources within the Hunter Catchment. Targets relevant to management of Shortland Wetlands fall
under the First Order Objective: “Water bodies are managed to balance natural ecosystem
requirements with community needs”.
The Newcastle Stormwater Management Plan 2005, the Hunter Estuary Coastal Zone Management
Plan September 2009 and Newcastle Biodiversity Strategy 2006 are also considered.
Other Main Acts of Relevance
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act),
The NSW Workers Health and Safety Act 2011
2.0 ABOUT THE WETLANDS CENTRE
2.1 History
Prior to white settlement the lands now occupied by The Hunter Wetland Centre were occupied by
the customary owner for thousands of years we therefore acknowledge and respect the Pambalong
clan of the Awabakal people, traditional custodians of the land on which the Hunter Wetlands
Centre is situated.
Lands occupied by The Wetlands Centre were altered in several
ways by urban settlement. Prior to their development as a
wetlands centre, the most significant impacts on the wetlands
were limited filling and changes in hydrology. Originally, some of
the wetlands were part of the estuarine wetlands of lower
Ironbark Creek that flowed into the Hunter Estuary. At this time,
saltmarsh and mangroves extended well into Shortland Wetlands.
Changes in the natural flow regime were caused by a number of
factors. These included the construction of floodgates on Ironbark
Creek, the establishment of Newcastle City Council's Astra Street
garbage dump, the construction of a drainage canal from Sandgate
Road to Ironbark Creek, and the construction of a power
transmission line. These events obstructed the natural drainage lines, and restricted the entry of
saline tidal water, changing the wetlands from a partly brackish to fresh water regime (Winning
1989).
In 1984, The Wetlands Centre site consisted of an abandoned building, sports fields constructed on
filled wetlands, and areas of mildly disturbed wetlands. Despite the impacts, Shortland Wetlands
supported a nesting colony with four species of egrets and two cormorant species. In September of
Wetlands are found on
land which is temporarily
or permanently covered by
fresh, brackish or saline
water. They are
characterised by the
dominant influence of
moisture on their flora,
fauna and soils.
(S.V Briggs, NPWS)
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that year, a group of community representatives from the Newcastle Flora and Fauna Protection
Society recognised the potential of the site for conservation, education and research and formed
the Hunter Wetlands Trust.
The Hunter Wetlands Trust conducted a successful campaign to secure funding and purchase the
site. A not-for-profit company was established, and began trading as the Shortland Wetlands Centre
Ltd in 1985.
Shortland Wetlands Centre hosted a NSW Department of Education Field Studies Centre, Visitors
Centre and a wetlands consultancy. Numerous volunteers worked to rehabilitate the site. Two new
ponds, a canoe canal and an extensive network of walking trails, boardwalks, bird hides and the
observation tower were constructed. Over 180,000 native plants have been planted and continued
bush regeneration is being conducted on the site.
2.2 The Wetlands Centre today
The Shortland Wetlands Centre Ltd. now trades as Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia, which remains
a not-for-profit community based company. It is managed by an honorary Board of Directors and
has over 600 members. The Board of Directors employs the equivalent of six 9 time staff. These
staff are responsible for visitor services including Spoonbill Café and facilities, grounds
maintenance, fund-raising, financial management and funded projects. Recently the Ecotourism
focus of the site has leaned toward a more active tourism focus including the introduction of
Segway Tours and more recently an approval to build an education/tourism focused adventure ropes
course has been obtained.
One hundred and fifty volunteers contribute over 1000 hours of assistance each month. They play
an active role in administration, catering, site maintenance, animal husbandry and bush
regeneration. A Site Management Committee guides site management with the assistance of
grounds staff, volunteers, the Australian Plants Society and two registered Landcare groups.
Outdoor visitor facilities include interpretive trails, boardwalks, canoe trail, an observation tower,
picnic pavilions, rainforest shelter and barbecues. Indoors, the Visitors Centre has a gift shop, café,
interpretive displays, and research library. Two seminar rooms and a theatrette are in strong
demand by special interest groups and government agencies. The Wetlands Centre hosts the
Wetlands Environmental Education Centre (WEEC) operated by the NSW Department of Education
and Communities It is operated under a 20 year Partnership Agreement between HWCA and NSW
DEC). In 2010 a $2.5m grant federal was provided under a Local Schools Working Together Grant.
The grant was facilitated by a partnership between HWCA, WEEC, NSW DEC and Catholic Schools
Office (CSO). In February 2011 a new 3 classroom facility was completed and opened for students
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providing the potential to increase the annual student capacity (subject to teaching staff
availability) above 8000 students.
Visitor services include a comprehensive program of enjoyable educational activities. Volunteer
guides lead canoe safaris, twilight treks, breakfasts with the birds, beginner bird watching, Segway
Tours, corporate training facilities and a Wild! Kids club during school holidays. The Wetlands
Centre attracts around 100,000 visitors each year, of which approximately 25 percent are of school
age. The Centre has a national and international reputation in wetland rehabilitation.
2.3 Funding
The Wetlands Centre was initiated with a considerable amount of foundation funding from
government and the private sector as a project for Australia's bicentenary. Maintaining ongoing
funding has proven to be a difficult task, resulting in financial constraints and limitations. In recent
years the Centre has survived staff changes, periodic reductions in volunteer numbers, loss of
private sector sponsorship, competition and increasing operational costs. The ability of The
Wetlands Centre to survive and improve is, for the most part, due to the high level of community
support and participation it attracts. The next five years however will prevent great challenges at a
volunteer level as the founding group of volunteers have commenced retiring from active duty. The
challenge will be to ensure that group replaced by a new crop of leaders that are equally dedicated.
A recent focus of the annual Board Strategic Review meetings is focussed on this and finding new
revenue streams that ensure HWCA’s survival as a community run organisation dedicated to
achieving its previously stated aims.
At the commencement of this plan, a number of multi year grants are in place to assist with the
ongoing rehabilitation of the site. They are a Federal Government 6 years Biodiversity Fund Grant
running until 2017 to facilitate the weeding and revegetation of up to 8ha of the site. Its focus is
expanding rainforest communities on site. A 3 State Government Environmental Trust Grant running
until mid 2015 is also in place. This grant subsidises our Site Managers employment and assists in
managing a broad range of site improvements.
Current income streams raise approximately 80-90% of annual costs and include:
Visitor entry
School education programs
Membership of The Wetlands Centre
Special Events
Room Hire
Canoe hire
Segway Tours
Orienteering
Corporate training events
Merchandising, café and gift shop
Donations.
Grants, project specific and untied
Fundraising events such as the Hunter Paddle Challenge.
Corporate and private sponsorship.
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3.0 SITE LOCATION
3.1 Shortland Wetlands
Shortland Wetlands are located in the lower part of Ironbark Creek Catchment on the Central
Coastal Plain of the Hunter Valley in the suburb of Shortland, 12km northwest of Newcastle, NSW
(32 53 S, 151 42). The wetlands occupy an area of 45 hectares and are situated on Quaternary
estuarine/lacustrine sediments including silts and clays (Matthei 1995). The close proximity and
ecological connections with Hexham Swamp, Kooragang Island and other parts of the Hunter Estuary
facilitate the movement of birds and other wetland fauna throughout the area (Martindale 1998).
3.2 The Hunter Estuary
The Hunter is one of the major catchments of eastern NSW. The Hunter Estuary includes a rich
mosaic of wetland types that together deliver a wide range of ecological values. It is recognised as
the most important area for shorebirds in NSW, with 42 species being reported (Smith 1991).
Figure 1. Locality map of Shortland Wetlands Kooragang Nature Reserve
Within the Hunter Estuary, Kooragang Nature Reserve (NR) incorporates Fullerton Cove, the north-
eastern section of Kooragang Island, and adjacent intertidal and aquatic areas. It was listed as a
Ramsar site in 1984. Kooragang NR is widely recognised as an important estuarine wetland complex,
with particular significance for the conservation of migratory shorebirds and other waterbirds
(Geering 1995; Martindale 1998). It supports over 30 species of migratory shorebirds including the
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Pacific Golden Plover, Eastern Curlew, Common Greenshank, Marsh Sandpiper, Terek Sandpiper, and
Bar-tailed Godwit (Martindale 1998). These species are protected under the EPBC Act, 1999.
In 1993, the Kooragang Wetland Rehabilitation Project was initiated to rehabilitate degraded
habitat and create healthy habitat for fish, crustaceans and other wildlife, notably shorebirds in the
Hunter Estuary. The project covers an area of over 1,300ha comprising approximately 500ha on Ash
Island at the western end of Kooragang Island, 800ha in the Tomago-Fullerton Cove area and the
10ha sandspit at the base of Stockton Bridge. It shares a border with the Kooragang Nature Reserve
on Kooragang Island.
3.3 Ironbark Creek Catchment
Ironbark Creek is the largest tidal creek in the Hunter Catchment. Its catchment covers an area of
12,500 hectares (DPWS 2000; NCC 2000). The catchment supports a diversity of land use, including
urban and limited rural residential, industrial and commercial, important transport and
communication corridors, recreation, conservation, agriculture, mining, forested land and wetland
(DPWS 2000; NCC 2000).
Urban development since 1824 has resulted in the clearing of approximately 2,000 hectares of land
or approximately 16% of the catchment which is now categorised as urban land (NCC 2000). The
catchment also includes 3,800 hectares of swamp land and 6,700 hectares of forests and rural lands.
3.4 Hexham Swamp
Hexham Swamp, including Hexham Nature Reserve, is separated from Shortland Wetlands by
Ironbark Creek. It was the largest freshwater swamp on the north coast of NSW, with an area of
2,500ha. It represents about 45% of allthe remaining freshwater wetland habitat in the Hunter
Valley (NPWS 1998). Hexham Swamp NR has regional and national importance for wildlife (Joint
Committee to advise on Land Use in Hexham Swamp, 1978). The swamp contains estuarine habitat
in the north-eastern corner adjacent to the Hunter River. This continues along Ironbark Creek to
form strong ecological links between Hexham Swamp, Shortland Wetlands and the western end of
Kooragang Nature Reserve (NPWS 1998). It was separated from the Hunter River in 1972 by
floodgates constructed to minimise flooding in the Hexham Swamp, Wallsend area. An unintended
consequence was the reduction in areas available for the breeding areas for fish, prawns and
crustaceans as areas of the swamp which were previously tidal became dominated by freshwater
swamps and vegetation types.
In 2009 a 4 stage process to reopen the flood gates to allow tidal inundation again commenced.
In 2011 stage 3 of the reopening was undertaken with 6 of the 8 gates now opened. The outcome is
as follows:
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Date: 8-Mar-2012
With stage 3 of the project well underway, the extra saltwater entering through the six open
floodgates on Ironbark Creek since September 2011 is having a positive impact on the vegetation in
Hexham Swamp.
The swamp is on the Hunter River floodplain, and supports a rich mosaic of wetland habitats
including mangroves, saltmarsh and open water. Recent vegetation mapping has shown the area of
freshwater reed Phragmites, is reducing in size and being replaced by brackish ponds and
mangroves. These saltwater vegetation communities were dominant in the swamp prior to the
exclusion of saltwater when the floodgates were installed in the early 1970s. The area today is
being transformed to valuable habitat for fish, prawns and waterbirds including migratory species
from as far as the Arctic Circle.
http://www.hcr.cma.nsw.gov.au/default.asp?section_id=49
The tidal salt inundation process has impacted on the Shortland Wetlands along two riparian
corridors. Prior to opening the gates the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority
(HRCMA) funded a program of fitting one way flap gates to the sites drainage points and raising the
access road around the site to prevent salt water inundation of the bulk of the site. This work
protected and continues to protect the sites fresh water Ramsar values and ecological character.
The Ironbark Creek eastern bank at the beginning of the process was fringed with mangroves and
was immediately backed by a range of freshwater tolerant trees and grasses. This corridor is up to
20 metres wide. It is now open to tidal inundation and has become a major transition zone with
fresh water trees such as casuarinas an melaleucas dying off and mangroves self propagating in the
zone. A process of removal of dead and dying trees and other dying freshwater plants has
commenced and is being funded under the Biodiversity grant. This transition process will be aided
by planting of salt tolerant species where necessary and will be completed during the life of this
plan.
The second area affected is the canoe channel. Prior to the opening the water level in the channel
was fairly static and erosion of the banks was not a concern. Following stage 3 of the opening
process tidal movement in the channel can be up to 1 meter and the resulting currents have
commenced undermining the banks in a number of places. In May 2013 a stakeholder workshop will
be undertaken to review the issue and determine a management response. It is the intention that a
solution will be found and implemented during the life of this plan.
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Figure 2: Shortland Wetlands and the Kooragang Nature Reserve (NPWS).
This map shows the original Hunter Estuary Ramsar site incorporating Kooragang and Shortland
Wetlands.
Figure 3: Shortland Wetlands Source: NPWS
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4.0 NATURAL VALUES
4.1 Ecological Character
The "ecological character" is the structure and inter-relationships between the
biological, chemical, and physical components of the wetland. These derive
from the interactions of individual processes, functions, attributes and values
of the ecosystem (Annex to Resolution VI.I, the Ramsar Convention).
The Shortland Wetlands complex contains diverse wetland habitats, including freshwater ponds,
marshes, non-tidal freshwater forested wetlands, tidal creek and brackish canoe trail. The site has
benefited from continuous management which has guided the creation of artificial wetlands and
rehabilitation of degraded wetlands over 17 years. Successful rehabilitation has supported the
development of significant ecological values, some specific to the site and others that enhance
values represented in the Hunter Estuary.
The diversity of wetland habitats provides important natural habitat for a diverse range of animals
in all seasons including water birds, frogs, invertebrates and fish. They also provide habitat for a
range of water-loving plants including sedges, rushes and various trees. The natural processes of
the wetlands, their role in catchment management and the biodiversity they support are discussed
in detail in the sections that follow.
Shortland Wetlands and the operations of The Wetlands Centre provide a range of ecological, social
and economic values. Some values form part of the criteria met for Ramsar listing, while others fall
outside this framework. All are equally important in delivering unique and important services to
wetland conservation and capacity-building for community involvement in wetland management.
Ramsar Rolling Review:
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In 2011 HWCA participated in a trial of a new document called a Site Status Form. This document
outlines Shortland Wetlands Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC’s) as determined in the Sites 2001
Ecological Character Description. The is designed to facilitate Ramsar Site Managers ability to report
on the sites Ramsar values to the Federal Government on the status of the sites key environmental
health indicators (LAC’s). It also provides an ideal template for site monitoring. It is our intention
over the life of this plan to ensure we undertake the necessary training to gain the capacity to
report on all LAC’s on an annual basis.
4.2 Flora of Shortland Wetlands
4.2.1 Description
Shortland Wetlands feature a high diversity of both original and rehabilitated plant communities. In
addition to the remnant vegetation present on site, there has been a committed landscaping effort.
Prior to 1988, Greening Australia (Hunter Valley) planted 2,290 trees. Since then, under the
direction of the HWCA Site Committee and the Australian Plant Society, over 100,000 trees and
80,000 understory plants have been propagated, planted and documented. The initial planting was
guided by a landscape plan which divided the site into five zones:
Visitor Centre Zone: Plants from throughout Australia.
Landscaped Parklands Zone: Playground and grassed areas.
Constructed Wetland: Plants from throughout Lower Hunter Region.
Natural Wetlands: Plants indigenous to the site.
Rainforest Zone: A rehabilitated and reconstructed rainforest.
In 2008 Geoff Winning (Deceased Life Member) completed a comprehensive planting guide for Shortland Wetlands. This guide has provided an up to date study of the site dividing it into 9 different soil landscapes as follows: Residual clayey soil, Residual sandy soil, Estuarine alluvial soil, Demolition fill, Excavation fill and imported clean fill, excavated waterway, Excavated pond, Impounded previous estuarine pond and Sand swamp. It then divides the site into 4 main vegetation landscape zones each of which are divided into a number of sub zones. The main zones are: Gardens, Parklands, Reveg and Special Purpose. Full details are to be found in the Hunter Wetlands Centre Planting Lists (Report Citation: “Winning G 2009, ‘Hunter Wetlands Centre, planting lists’, report to
Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia by HWR Pty Ltd.”)
The success rate of plantings has remains excellent as a result of a process involving weed removal,
and laying cardboard under a thick layer of mulch to minimise weed reinfestation and maximise
water retention in the subsoil prior to and after planting. The plantings have significantly changed
the landscape, enhancing biodiversity, hydrology and natural processes on the site.
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In 2013 Over 280 native and exotic floral species have been recorded within Shortland Wetlands
(Appendix 4). These species predominately occur within the 22 vegetation communities that have
been identified as occurring on the site, as shown in Table 4.1 (Baretta 1998). Common water plants
include Club Rush (Bolboschoenus caldwellii), Common Reed (Phragmites australis), Water Couch
(Paspalum distichum), Water Ribbon (Triglochin procerum) and Cumbungi (Typha orientalis).
4.2.2 Values
The mosaic of plant communities at Shortland Wetlands has significant value for biodiversity. The
variety of plant communities represent a unique complex found nowhere else in the Sydney Basin
biogeographic region. The Melaleuca Swamp provides nesting and roosting habitat for egrets, herons
and ibises. Reedy margins provide breeding areas for native waterfowl. Shallow pond margins
provide foraging sites for shorebirds.
Vegetation plays a vital role in hydrological processes. Wetland plants stabilise shorelines, reducing
soil erosion. They filter and trap sediment from stormwater inflows, reducing turbidity and
sedimentation. This contributes to high water quality and aquatic life.
The rehabilitation of wetland and terrestrial plant communities serves as a demonstration site for
community involvement in vegetation management. Bush regeneration activities on the site provide
project and training opportunities for volunteers including TAFE students, Green Reserve and
Conservation Volunteers, Australia.
Plants on the site have educational values, providing opportunities for a range of interpretive
themes including backyard biodiversity, stormwater improvement and wildlife habitat.
Table 4.1. Plant communities at Shortland Wetlands (modified from Baretta, 1998)
Plant Community Type Dominant or Common Species
Closed Commersonia Forest Commersonia fraseri Brush Kurrajong
Closed Mangrove Forest Avicennia marina (Grey Mangrove)
Open Planted Rainforest
Omalanthus populifolius (Bleeding Heart)
Toona ciliata (Red Cedar)
Synoum glandulosum (Scentless Rosewood)
Stenocarpus sinuatus (Fire-wheel Tree).
Casuarina Forest Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak)
Open Melaleuca Swamp Forest Melaleuca quinquenervia (Broad-leaved Paperbark)
Open Planted Woodland
Eucalyptus gummifera (Red Bloodwood)
E. robusta (Swamp Mahogany)
E. punctata (Grey Gum)
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Open Woodland
Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum)
Solanum mauritianum (Wild Tobacco Bush)
Acacia longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle)
A. parramattensis (Parramatta Green Wattle)
Isolated Eucalypt Trees
Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum)
Eucalyptus siderophloia (Grey Ironbark)
Eucalyptus propinqua (Small-fruited Grey Gum)
Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fem)
Melaleuca Shrubland
Melaleuca nodosa (Ball Honeymyrtle)
M. ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark)
M. styphelioides (Prickly-leaved Paperbark)
Isachne globosa (Swamp Millet).
Planted Shrubland Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush)
Leptospermum polygalifolium (Lemon-scented Tea Tree)
Banksia Shrubland Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia)
Acacia Shrubland Acacia longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle)
Closed Panicum Grassland Panicum maximum (Guinea Grass)
Kikuyu Grassland Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu)
Water Couch Wet Meadow Paspalum distichum (Water Couch).
Closed Typha Swamp Rushland Typha orientalis (Bulrushes or Cumbungi),
Closed Phragmites Reed Swamp Phragmites australis (Common Reed)
Juncus Rushland Juncus krausii (Sea Rush)
Fennel Forbland Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel)
Fireweed Groundsel Forbland Senecio linearifolius (Fireweed Groundsel)
Verbena bonariensis (Purpletop)
Open Pond Vallisneria sp
Closed Verbena Forbland Verbena bonariensis (Purpletop)
4.2.3 HWCA Nursery
Former Site Manager Boyd Carney commenced nursery operations at HWCA in 2009. The project was
commenced to facilitate propagation of plants from seed or cuttings from plants re established on
site in previous years. Its initial aims included capacity building objectives as well as financial
savings to ensure maximum value was gained from Grant funds. Before he joined NPWS he proposed
expanding the nursery and seeking commercial contracts. That expansion was undertaken and
initially increased capacity to 50,000 plants.
In late 2010 volunteer Ken Baylis took on the role of Nursery Manager and capacity has been
expanded further. He provided the following information in 2013.
Nursery plant capacity has increased from 50,000 plants per year to more than 100,000 plants per
year with nursery personnel attending 4 days per week instead of 1 day per week. Also we have
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updated the nursery Standard Operating Procedure Documents (SOP’s) and introduced a
comprehensive WHS Policy.
Two new hot house buildings have been erected at the nursery this now allows us to have approx
200 plant trays under propagation at any one time.
A purchase of plant species from Burrinbah nursery allowed us to diversify our plant species.
The collection of plant species seed from the site is now a very important function of the nursery
activities as is collection of plant cuttings for those species that are difficult to propagate from seed
A comprehensive environmental management system (EMS) was developed in 2012 with funding
from HCRCMA. It was implemented in 2013 to protect Ironbark Creek from nutrient and sediment
contamination as a result of the expanded capacity for the nursery area a weed control programme
has been established along with the management of water run off and sediment control. The
principals established in the EMS system will be applied across the whole site. They include a
quarterly audit of the systems effectiveness and constant monitoring of water quality across the
site.
This will ensure the nursery is sustainable and assist achieving our goal of creating an income stream
for the organisation as well as a great focus for volunteer involvement, capacity building and cost
savings by supplying the vast majority of plants required for our own revegetation efforts.
In the lifetime of this plan we aim to increase species under propagation to fulfil our own
requirements and enable the establishment of a commercially viable nursery. To date we have sold
26,000 plants to commercial customers.
4.3 Fauna of Shortland Wetlands
Wetlands are known as “hotspots” for biodiversity. The interface of aquatic and terrestrial habitats
and variety of vegetation communities support a high diversity of wildlife. Shortland Wetlands
supports species of birds, frogs, mammals and reptiles, despite being surrounded by an urban
landscape with its associated impacts.
4.3.1 Birds
A total of 217 bird species, represented in 56 families have been recorded at the site (Appendix 6).
The species list includes:
67 waterbirds and 9 migratory shorebirds;
18 raptors;
8 pigeons and doves;
15 species of parrots and cockatoos;
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9 cuckoos;
17 honeyeaters.
In deeper ponds, areas of open water are suitable for waterfowl such as teal, Magpie Geese, swans
and many duck species. The freshwater swamp forest has been utilised as a heronry by up to 2000
breeding pairs of 4 egret species in
summer. This forest is also a seasonal
evening roost for approximately 4000
Australian White Ibis and Straw-
necked Ibis in winter months (M.
Maddock pers. comm.). During
seasonal cycles and local droughts,
the drop in water level exposes
mudflats and shallow margins which
provide foraging areas for migratory
shorebirds. During inland drought
episodes, Shortland Wetlands act as
an important strategic refuge for a
range of bird species.
Many migratory species recorded at Kooragang NR have also been recorded at Shortland Wetlands,
particularly when muddy margins of the ponds are exposed. These include Australasian Bittern,
Latham’s Snipe, Marsh Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Wood Sandpiper, Red-necked Stint, Sharp-
tailed Sandpiper and Curlew Sandpiper. Shortland Wetlands also provides an extension of habitat to
Kooragang NR for the following wetland vulnerable and endangered species:
Easter2010
Black-necked Stork (endangered)
Freckled Duck (vulnerable)
Australasian Bittern, (vulnerable)
Comb-crested Jacana (vulnerable)
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Blue Billed Duck (vulnerable)
Black Bittern (vulnerable)
Appendix 6 lists all endangered and vulnerable birds that have been sighted at Shortland
Wetlands
Shortland Wetlands support a high diversity of species, some in great abundance, at a critical stage
of their seasonal breeding and migration cycles. A total of 28 species have been observed breeding
within the Wetlands (Appendix 2 ;).
A total of 16 migratory species recorded at Shortland Wetlands are listed under the China-
Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA); and 14 species are listed under the Japan-
Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) with 12 species common to both agreements.
There are 7 vulnerable species and 1 endangered species listed under the NSW TSC Act
1995. Appendix 6 shows the legislative status of species that have been recorded at
Shortland Wetlands.
Shortland Wetlands particularly provides important habitat for a rare species in NSW, the Magpie
Goose. The Magpie Goose is distributed across northern Australia including western NSW, southern
and western Victoria and south-east South Australia (Emison et al. 1987; Smith et al. 1995). The
species is a vagrant to south-west Australia and Tasmania, New Guinea and regularly crosses Torres
Strait (Draffan et al. 1983; Marchant and Higgins 1990). In NSW, small numbers of the Magpie Goose
have returned to north-east NSW, after a decline that was probably the result of swamp drainage
and hunting (Marchant and Higgins 1990).
In 1987, The Wetlands Centre initiated a re-introduction program of the Magpie Goose to Shortland
Wetlands with 41 juvenile geese from Serendip Wildlife Research Station (Murray 1990). In 1988, a
further 41 juvenile Magpie Geese were obtained from Serendip Wildlife Research Station, and 44
from the Conservation Commission of the Northern Territory, also 5 one day old goslings were
obtained in May 1990 (Murray 1990). The Magpie Geese bred in the wild for the first time in 1992.
Magpie Geese can be observed
on a daily basis foraging and
roosting on BHP pond, adjacent
to the visitors centre. This
project is ongoing with
significant breeding occurring
on site and in the estuary. The
flock count in February 2012
was 98 and in March 2013
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volunteer Paul Davidson counted 113 which was verified
the next day. A supplementary feeding program remains in place to support the population. It is
now not unusual to sight these magnificent geese at Kooragang and other nearby wetlands.
The Wetlands Centre is one of only four centres around Australia to be chosen as a host site for the
Freckled Duck captive-breeding program. This program was initiated by the CSIRO in the early
1980’s and commenced with distribution of Freckled Ducks that were hand reared from eggs
collected in the Paroo Valley (NSW).
In 1993, The Wetlands Centre received 17 ducks for the captive-breeding program. Breeding of the
Freckled Duck first commenced in 1998. Since that time there have been 69 ducklings hatched and
43 have survived, of which 23 have been given to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve as part of their captive
breeding program. Due to management issues, this program has now been reduced. In 2013 a
workshop will discuss the viability of a release program for future ducklings.
4.3.2 Mammals
There has been one mammal survey conducted on Shortland Wetlands site. This survey was
conducted as part of the ecological study of the State Highway No. 23 – Shortland to Pacific Highway
Corridor (Macdonald Wagner 1984). It was found during this survey that the relatively small size of
Shortland Wetlands (45ha) and its close proximity to a highly disturbed urban environment meant
that the site supported very few native mammal species (McDonald and Winning 1986). A total of
six mammal species were recorded. Of these, only two species were native Australian mammals
(Table 4.2). Another species, the European Rabbit, has been recorded opportunistically at the site.
Several bat species, including the native Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus), have
also been recorded.
Since Shortland Wetlands was opened to the public volunteer John Simpson who guides our Spotlight
Prowl Tours has also identified Fishing Bats (Myotis macropus) as a regular visitor to the sight
In 2009 agreement was reached with the Native Animal Trust Fund and National Parks and Wildlife
Service to use the sight as a conditional release site for rehabilitated animals and birds. Over the
last 3 years Common Ringtail Possums and Common Brushtail Possums have been released. To
facilitate this program we will install up to 80 bird and possum nesting boxes on site by mid 2017.
The program entails an element of mammal reintroduction as populations were eliminated by
previous land use regimes.
As part of this mammal reintroduction program conditional approval has been given for the
reintroduction of Swamp Wallabies. This process relies on funding the purchase of GPS tracking
equipment to ensure the program can be properly monitored and breeding tracked. We will
continue to apply for grant funds to set up the necessary infrastructure.
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It is our intention to conduct a new survey during the life of this plan as the massive revegetation
program may have attracted additional mammals
Table 4.2. Terrestrial Mammal species recorded at Shortl and
Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name
Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot (native)
Hydromys chrysogaster Water Rat (native)
Pteropus policephalus Grey-Headed Flying Fox
Mus musculus House Mouse
Rattus rattus Black Rat
Lepus capensis Brown Hare
Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit
Vulpes vulpes Red Fox
Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum
Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail Possum
Myotis macropus Fishing Bat (vulnerable NSW)
The WBM BMT 2010 EIS offers the following:
The megabat Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) is a seasonal visitor to the HWCA in
response to the seasonal availability of its food, especially flowering eucalypts, such as Swamp
Mahogany, and fruiting trees, such as lily pillies (Acmena and Syzygium). Up to ten species of
microbat have also been recorded in Hexham Swamp and/or the Hunter River estuary and are
potential visitors to the HWCA site. These bat species are listed in Table 4-32.
Table 4.2.1 Bats of HWCA and Surrounding Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name
Megabats
Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying Fox
Microbats
Chalinolobus gouldii
Gould’s Wattled Bat
Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled
Miniopterus australis Little Bentwing-bat
Miniopterus schreibersii
oceanensis
Eastern Bentwing-bat
Vespadelus vulturnus Little Forest Bat
Nyctophilus geoffroyi * Lesser Long-eared Bat
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Nyctophilus gouldii *
Gould’s Long-eared Bat
Myotis Myotis adversus † Large-footed Myotis
Scoteanax rueppellii
Greater Broad-nosed Bat
Mormopterus norfolkensis East-coast Free-tail Bat
Mormopterus loriae ?
Little Northern Free-tail Bat
Nyctinomus australis White-striped Freetail-bat
* These two species are difficult to distinguish from calls and either or both species may have been recorded. † While not having been recorded in the referenced studies this species if almost certainly a visitor to the site. ? The characterisation of this species from the call data was inconclusive
A more definitive on site study is required to establish how many of these visit however with our
increasing biodiversity plantings it may be possible to attract them
® denotes reintroduced in conjunction with Native Animal Trust Fund.
4.3.3 Amphibians and Repti les
Two studies have been conducted to identify the distribution and abundance of frogs at Shortland
Wetlands (McDonald and Winning 1986; Little 1999). These studies have shown that since 1986, the
site has supported a total of eight frog species (Table 4.3). These species are recognised as
commonly found throughout eastern Australia (Barker et al. 1995).
Table 4.3. Frogs identified at Shortland Wetlands .
Scientific Name Common Name Location/s
Litoria dentata Bleating Tree Frog Melaleuca Swamp
Litoria fallax Dwarf Green Tree Frog all locations
Litoria peroni Peron’s Tree Frog Melaleuca Swamp
Litoria tyleri Tyler’s Tree Frog Cat-tail Swamp/Reed
Marsh
Litoria caerulea Green Tree Frog -
Crinia signifera Common Eastern Froglet walking tracks
Limnodynastes peroni Striped Marsh Frog Frog Pond/walking
tracks
Lymnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted Grass Frog Back Swamp
Of the species recorded, only one species, the Green Tree Frog, was recorded in 1986 but not
during 1999. The cause of its absence may be due to habitat changes that occurred at the site
between 1986-1999. In this period, the
removal of natural bushland that
occurred as part of housing and other
development surrounding Shortland
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Wetlands reduced the variety of habitat types available to frog species such as the Green Tree Frog
(Little 1999).
There was a survey of reptiles at Shortland Wetlands (Macdonald Wagner 1984) which recorded a
total of nine species (Table 4.4). These reptiles are found throughout the coastal regions of eastern
Australia, and like most reptile species have suffered the effects of heavy development on the
coastal fringe (Cogger 1975). Other reptiles found on the site include the Blue-tongue Lizard, Water
Dragon, Bearded Dragon, Short-necked Turtle and Swamp Snake.
The 2010 Hydrology EIS (BMT WBM) updated the list
Table 4.4. Repti les recorded at Shortland Wetlands in 2010
Scientific Name Common Name
Cheladina longicollis Long-necked Turtle
Ctenotus robustus Striped Skink
Lampropholis delicata Grass Skink
L. mustelinum Weasel Skink
Saiphos equalis Three-toed Skink
Sphenomorphus quoyii Eastern Water Skink
Tiliqua casuarinae She-oak Skink
Hemiaspis signata Swamp Snake
Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake
Physignathus leseurii Astern Water Dragon
Tiliqua scincoides Common Blue-tongue Lizard
Dendrelaphis punctulata Green Tree Snake
4.3.4 Re-Introduction of the Green and Golden Bell Frog
The Green and Golden Bell Frog, Litoria aurea, was once common in the Hexham Swamp region but
now appears to be absent (Hamer 1998). Numbers crashed during the late 1980’s and the frog is
now listed as a threatened species under
Commonwealth and State legislation.
Suspected causes include changes to
hydrology, disease, pollution, habitat
destruction and the introduction of predators.
Green and Golden Bell Frogs are known to
have occurred at Shortland Wetlands, but
have not been recorded in recent years.
Local populations inhabit sites at Kooragang
Island to the North and Sandgate to the
northwest. Kooragang Island supports one of
the largest known remaining populations of the Green and Golden Bell Frog in NSW, with population
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studies indicating that up to 1,000 individuals occur (Hamer, Lane and Mahony 2002). Both sites are
less than 5 kilometres from Shortland Wetlands.
A project was commenced in 2002 with the construction of several ponds. The objectives were:
To assist conservation of the Bell Frog by establishing a permanent habitat at Shortland
Wetlands, reintroducing a breeding colony to the site and monitoring their progress.
To provide the community with opportunities to view Bell Frogs, understand their value and
generate support for their conservation.
To facilitate research into successful strategies for Bell Frog translocation.
To feature the Bell Frog as an ambassador species for wetland conservation.
The re-introduction of the species to the site was undertaken using tadpoles originally sourced from
Kooragang Island and bred by the University of Newcastle. Tadpoles were released into artificial
ponds specifically designed and constructed for the project.
Habitat and frog colonisation was being monitored and periodically reviewed by The Wetlands
Centre staff and ecology students from the University of Newcastle. Water quality, population
numbers, and habitat were monitored on a regular basis to evaluate breeding success and measure
the outcome of the reintroduction program. The program was as follows:
Green and golden bell frogs were first reintroduced to the site in 2004, when 20 tadpoles were
released into one the ponds. At least three of these individuals survived for more than two years
within the reintroduction site, suggesting that the created habitat was likely to be suitable. In 2005,
a further 850 bell frog tadpoles were released at the site. Shortly after these tadpoles began to
metamorphose into frogs, their numbers began to decline and all bell frogs disappeared from the
site 13 months after they were released. The cause of the decline was attributed to infection by the
amphibian chytrid fungus. The site was then extended with the addition of three new ponds, and
salt, which inhibits the growth of the chytrid fungus, was added to four of the six ponds at the site.
A third reintroduction of 720 bell frog tadpoles took place at the end of 2009, and the addition of
salt was found to increase the survival of bell frogs while they were metamorphosing into frogs. For
the first time, a natural breeding event occurred at the reintroduction site at the beginning of 2011.
Unfortunately, no breeding occurred the following summer and bell frog numbers declined until
they could no longer be found at the site by May 2012. It is possible that fluctuating water levels
and decreases in pond salinity meant that the frogs were not protected from the chytrid fungus and
this may have again been the cause of bell frogs disappearing from the site. The next step for this
project is to discuss possible ways to maintain salinity levels in the presence of water fluctuation,
and if this problem can be solved then another bell frog release may be appropriate. (Carla Pollard
University of Newcastle April 2013)
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4.3.5 Fish
There has been one fish survey conducted at Shortland Wetlands. This survey was conducted as
part of the ecological study of the State Highway No. 23 – Shortland to Pacific Highway Corridor
(Macdonald Wagner 1984). A total of six species were recorded during this survey, of which one,
the Mosquito Fish is an introduced species (Table 4.5). Other salt water fish are found in the canoe
trail.
In 2010 Koi Carp (Cyprinis carpio) and Sea Mullet (Mugil cephalus) were recorded in various natural
ponds that make up Shortland Wetlands. In 2010 when as all ponds dried out during a localised
drought pelicans moved in to feed on the struggling fish and many also expired as a result of lack of
oxygen in the shallow water. It is thought that they entered the system in June 2007 during the
major flood event caused by an East Coast Low.
Table 4.5. Fish species recorded at Shortland Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name
Gambusia holbrooki Mosquito Fish
Gobiomorphus coxii Cox’s Gudgeon
Hypseleotris galii Firetail Gudgeon
Philypnodon grandiceps Flathead Gudgeon
Philypnodon sp. none
Anguilla australis Short-finned Eel
Cyprinus Carpio Koi Carp -2010
Mugil cephalus Sea Mullet-2010
It is intended to conduct a new survey during the life of this plan if funding allows
4.3.6 Macro-Invertebrates
Pond life at Shortland Wetlands is abundant. A wide diversity of macro-invertebrates is present
including many sensitive insect larvae. Macro-invertebrate surveys of Shortland Wetlands routinely
record molluscs, bloodworms, caddisfly larvae, gastropods, beetles, bugs, water fleas, seed
shrimps, copepods and nymph forms of dragonfly, damselfly, and mayfly (Bischof and Brown, 1996).
The Wetland Environmental Education Centre (WEEC) regularly surveys BHP and Brambles ponds.
The following list is of those regularly in various the surveys in early 2013. Informattion supplied by
Carolyn Gillard.
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Table 4.6. Macro-Invertibrate species recorded at Shortland
Wetlands
Class: Insecta
Order Family Name Common Name
Ephemeroptera Leptophlebiidae Mayfly
Odonata
Suborder Zygoptera
Coenagriinidae Damselfly
Megapodagrionidae Damselfly
Suborder: Anisoptera Corduliidae Dragonfly
Libellulidae Dragonfly
Hemiptera Gerridae Water strider
Notonectidae Backswimmer
Corixidae Water boatman
Nepidae Water scorpion
Belostomatidae Water scorpion
Megaloptera Sialidae Alderflies
Corydalidae Dobsonflies
Coleoptera Dystiscidae Diving Beetle
Hydrophilidae Diving beetle
Diptera Stratiomyidae Soldier Fly
Tipulidae Crane fly
Chronomidae Midge fly
Trichoptera Odontoceridae Caddisfly
Leptoceridae Caddisfly
Calamoceratidae Caddisfly
Lepidoptera Moth
Others:
Phyllum Common Name
Chordata Tadpoles
Gudgeon
Mosquito Fish
Mollusca Ramshorn snail
Pond snail
Arthropoda Cyclops
Ostracoda Seed shrimp
Cladocera Water fleas
Arachnid Water mite
Species:
Megadolomedes australianus
Water Spider
Decapoda Freshwater shrimp
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Tricladida Planarian
Phyllum: Annelida Freshwater worms
Leech
4.4 Hydrology
4.4.1 Description
Shortland Wetlands are a natural drainage depression, a remnant of extensive tidal and floodplain
wetlands that once extended east of Ironbark Creek. The land has been altered significantly by
urban development around and within the site, including land-filling, the construction of electricity
infrastructure, access roads and a sporting complex, causing significant changes in hydrology. The
landscape design for the development of a wetland centre on the site sought to maximize the
existing drainage and storage capacity while encouraging the improvement of biodiversity values
and the quality of water entering and leaving the site.
Water flowing into Shortland Wetlands is generated by local rainfall and run-off from nearby
suburbs. A series of stormwater pipes and culverts collect stormwater from lands and suburbs to
the south, east and north and deliver water to Shortland Wetlands.
Shortland Wetlands delivers water to Ironbark Creek via a constructed channel and a series of
drainage points along Ironbark Marsh and the northern boundary of the site. However, the flow
traditionally occurs only after periods of heavy rain or when Ironbark Marsh is at full capacity.
Flooding of the swamps requires significant and successive rainfall events. In the past this has
occurred predominantly in the summer months. Historically low rainfall resulted in low water levels
or drying out of most of the ponds on the site however the history of the site since HWC took
control has indicated that the drying out has become the exception leading to health problems for
the trees in Melaleuca Swamp. Various engineering works over 100 years including the construction
of the Ironbark Creek flood gates in 1972 and the western end of sites conversion to fresh water
wetland created a situation where Ironbark Marsh has become choked with fresh water reed growth.
This created a damming effect causing water to build up on the site and create a semi permanent
state of inundation.
It became apparent by 2007 that the health of the Melaleuca Swamp Forest which is the location of
the egret and ibis breeding colony was in a poor state. Trees were falling over and or dying and
there had been a continual decline in the number of egret nests counted in the annual Project Egret
Watch bird count which caused alarm as a result The Wetland Centre commissioned engaged BMT
WBM in 2008 to undertake a Hydrology and Water Study to provide an understanding of the
hydrology and water quality and hydrology problems of the HWC site. Based on the results of this
study, five management strategies were formulated with the aim of improving the hydrology and/or
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water quality within the site. Following various meetings a project was designed to implement two
of those management two of these management strategies, albeit with some minor alterations.
Application was made to the Federal government through the Ramsar Managers Planning Process
and Caring for Our Country Grant streams for funding for an EIS and on ground works to implement
the two management strategies. Funding was granted in 2010.
Overview of the Project: (BMT WBM EIS HWC Hydrology and Ecological Restoration Set 2010)
The Project has been separated into two separate management strategies, each with their own
individual objective and subsequent construction and management requirements. The two
management strategies are as follows:
A. Management of the water level and water quality in the Melaleuca Swamp by pumping it out; and
B. Water level control throughout all of the ponds on site by use of a series of flow control gates
and a drainage channel through Ironbark Marsh.
Strategy A is considered a short-term strategy that addresses an immediate and acute need within
Melaleuca Swamp.
Strategy B will ultimately also address hydrology issues in Melaleuca Swamp over a longer
timeframe. It is envisaged that as the changes associated with Strategy B start to
transpire, the need for pro-active management of water levels in Melaleuca Swamp (i.e. Strategy A)
will diminish. The aims, construction and resource requirements, and risks associated with each of
the proposed management strategies are outlined in Section 2.3 and Section 2.4 of the EIS
It is anticipated the work will be completed by mid 2013 weather permitting. An Operations
Management Plan was also completed in 2012 to guide a new era of active water management on
the site.
Strategy B involves installing a number of water control gates coupled with cleaning out a choked
drainage channel through Ironbark Marsh and extending it from the Marsh to Reed Marsh Pond to
facilitate movement of water through the site into Ironbark Creek. The photo below is of the
completed channel in late 2012. The second photo shows pelicans arriving to clean out a drying
Water Ribbon Pond in 2010
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An Operations Managment Plan is in place to control the timing and conditions of pumping and
release of water into Ironbark Creek. The Plan was approved by the NSW Office of Water and
Newcastle City Council.
4.4.2 Values
Storage of rainfall and stormwater to provide habitat for significant wetland fauna and flora
species.
Recycling of nutrients that enter the site in stormwater or through the activity of nesting birds.
Improvements in water quality draining to Ironbark Creek and Hunter River from the site
It is necessary to complete the hydrology construction works to give full effect to the EIS and
Hydrology Management Plan
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Figure 4: Map of Shortland Wetlands showing some key features ,
including the location of ponds, buildings, walking trails and hydrological flows (indicated by blue arrows).
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5.0 SOCIAL VALUES
5.1 Cultural Heritage
The Worimi and Awabakal Aboriginal tribes were the earliest inhabitants of the Lower Hunter
Estuary (NPWS 1998). There are numerous middens and campsites scattered throughout the Lower
Hunter but they occur particularly along riverbanks and within the dunes of Stockton Bight (NPWS
1998). Substantial changes to the estuary from river bank works, land reclamation,
industrialisation, and urbanisation, led to nearly all traces of Aboriginal occupation being destroyed
(NPWS 1998).
Middens were once located along the river from Port Waratah to Sandgate but according to the
NPWS Aboriginal sites register, there is now only one midden located within Kooragang Nature
Reserve (NPWS 1998). Animals and plants found in wetlands of the Lower Hunter featured strongly
in the mythology, culture and lifestyle of Aboriginal people. A number of wetland plants were used
for food, medicines and as materials for containers. Many wetland animals would have been
relatively easy to catch and would have contributed greatly to the diet of Aboriginal people in
certain seasons.
During revegetation work in1986 at The Wetlands Centre, a significant Aboriginal archaeological site
was discovered. (Martindale 1998). It has been determined that the site was a silcrete quarry used
for the making of stone tools (Martindale 1998). The site has been protected from human
interference and access to the site has been managed in accordance with the Centre's
Interpretation Plan, and in consultation with local Aboriginal Land Council representatives and the
NPWS.
In 2009 the Board of HWCA adopted an Indigenous Engagement Policy. Practical actions that have
been taken since that policy was approved include:
The recruitment of a representative of the Awabakal Local Area Land Council (Steve
Schmidt) to our Site Committee
Employment of two indigenous land care trainees for 2 years under a Jobs Fund Grant, one
of whom is now a full time Biodiversity Officer at HWCA.
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5.2 Education
Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia has been dedicated to wetland education since its inception and
has made a substantial contribution to wetland conservation at the local, state, national and
international levels. There is no doubt that the leadership through wetland education delivered by
Hunter Wetlands Centre has played a key role in the development of a greater understanding and
appreciation of wetlands in the Hunter Region and further afield.
Education programs and services aim to promote wetland values, conservation and sustainable
ecosystem management. Education values offered by Hunter Wetlands Centre include:
promoting wetland values through communication, education and public awareness;
demonstrating sustainable wetland restoration and management;
community capacity-building in wise use of wetlands;
demonstrating sustainable wetland based recreation; and
Providing a venue for wetland-related community organisations.
The Education Programs have evolved into an excellent demonstration of the Ramsar Convention’s
Outreach Program (Resolution 7.9). This promotes the role education can play to encourage
understanding of wetland values, conservation and wise use management. Communication,
education and public awareness are all employed in a variety of programs delivered informally and
formally.
Visitors can directly experience wetlands and wildlife:
through static and live displays within the visitors centre;
through the use of tracks, platforms and hides; and
by canoe.
by Segway
by bicycle
The School Education Program is underpinned by a valuable partnership with the NSW Department
of Education and Communities (DEC). The Wetlands Environmental Education Centre, a NSW DEC
facility, has been located at Hunter Wetlands Centre since its inception. This partnership has
supported the development of a highly regarded and well-used wetlands education program
accessed by over 7,000 students, representing 200 schools, annually.
The school program caters for students from Kindergarten through to Year 12 and offers a series of
topics to cater for students across a range of age and ability levels, the program reflect topics in
the NSW School Curriculum. The ability to deliver the program in a managed wetland ecosystem
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adds a critical dimension to the program. Programs focused on wetland animals, wetland habitats,
ecosystem values and functions, and management are greatly enhanced.
The ability of these programs to be delivered was greatly enhanced in 2011, with the opening of the
new specialty built education building. A national Local Schools Working Together grant was
awarded in 2010 and provided the funding for the design and construction of the new classroom,
theatre, outdoor learning area and administration offices. The new facility is featured below.
Community education programs include static displays, guided walks and programs such as canoe
tours, twilight walks and Breakfast with the Birds, wetland-related education classes and annual
events such as World Wetlands Day. Wetland education is also achieved through hands-on
involvement of community volunteers in all aspects of the Hunter Wetlands Centre’s operations,
especially site management.
This community education provides a range of social benefits. Visitors are provided with life long
learning opportunities, stimulating intellectual development and personal growth. Many activities
are suitable for all ages. The opportunity for grandparents, parents and children to learn together
fosters social cohesion. The focus on learning about and experiencing the site builds a sense of
place, helping people identify with their region and feeling they belong. Responsible environmental
behaviour is encouraged and supported.
Since 2012 Hunter Wetlands Centre Ecotourism Manager, has been conducting a research project on
behalf of the Office of Environment and Heritage called the ‘Our Places’ project. The program
began with a number of focus groups that engaged sustainability educators throughout Newcastle,
Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Region. The focus of the sessions was to identify successes and
challenges with engaging community with environmental education. Following on from the focus
groups are larger Community Forums to be held through 2013 that aim to link community members
with established groups and educators to identify projects and ways to improve ‘place’. Both the
forums and the focus groups aim not only to serve as information for the research paper but
endeavour to link and build networks between the various groups and individuals throughout the
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Hunter Region whose goal it is to engage the community with taking care of the environment. The
Our Places project is also taking place in Western Sydney and in the Albury regions and is ongoing.
5.3 Community Involvement
Since the inception of the Hunter Wetlands Trust in 1984, Shortland Wetlands has been a focal point
for community involvement in wetland rehabilitation and education. Community involvement today
is evident in the volunteer program and the partnerships with other community conservation groups
who share the site.
The Wetlands Centre’s volunteer program demonstrates the principles recommended by the Ramsar
Convention to involve local communities in the management of wetlands (Resolution VII.8).
Volunteers are involved in many facets of the Centre's operations. Community participation
develops a greater understanding of wetland functions and values. In many instances involvement
offers significant retraining opportunities for unemployed volunteers and meaningful work for the
disabled and elderly. Long-term volunteers are particularly important as they help fulfil the Centre's
mission to provide opportunities to connect with and learn about wetlands. Volunteers include:
two long-standing groups directly involved in site management and bush regeneration
a long-term group that delivers visitor services and guiding services
a volunteer Board of Directors
a broadly based volunteer Site Management Committee
numerous volunteers involved in administrative duties, school holiday programs and special
events
Volunteers involved with grounds and Centre maintenance
Volunteers involved in fundraising
Volunteers establishing and managing our on site Nursery operations.
5.4 Research
The Wetlands Centre has produced 37 scientific publications, 4 reports, poster papers at
international conferences and contributions to three books. In 2012 we self published a book
compiled by Ken Bayliss on Bush Tucker found at the HWCA site and in our Bush Tucker Garden.
Results of the Wetlands Centre’s research activities are archived in the Library collection held at
the Centre. They include studies on frogs, dunal swamp forests, wetland rehabilitation, artificial
wetlands and educational values of Hunter Valley Wetlands in a heritage context. University higher
degree research studies (8 Honours and 2 Doctoral theses) and several other projects have been
carried out in conjunction with the Centre’s research programs.
One particular study, Project Egret Watch brought together more than 200 volunteer field workers
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throughout Australia and New Zealand to study the biology of heron species, particularly egrets,
since 1985. The major contribution to the understanding of egret breeding biology, ecology and
migration has received international recognition. Project Egret Watch was conducted as a
cooperative research venture with the Ornithological Society of New Zealand’s Cattle Egret project
team. Egret and Ibis nest counts are still an annual feature of ???
In recent years because of changes in staff composition and success in attracting major grants the
focus of the Centre has shifted away from research to on ground works with some spectacular
improvements being achieved as the revegetation process has been ramped up. Scope still exists to
re-establish the research effort and discussions are underway with Newcastle University in relation
to a number of joint projects.
5.5 Partnerships
In addition to projects at the Shortland site, the Centre has supported numerous activities at other
wetlands in the Hunter Region and has actively supported all the major wetland conservation
proposals in the Hunter. The Wetlands Centre cooperates with the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment
Management Authority and is represented on a number of their committees, NSW National Parks and
Wildlife Service and local councils to support Landcare groups in wetland areas. The Ironbark Creek
Catchment Management Committee and more recently the Hexham Swamp Rehabilitation
Committee both operate out of The Wetlands Centre.
The Centre provides meeting facilities for a number of special interest groups, including:
The Australian Plant Society (APS)(Newcastle Group)
Hunter Bird Observers (HBOC)
Hunter Native Fish
Native Animal Trust Fund (NATF)
Lions and Rotary Clubs
Close links have also been forged with The University of Newcastle, Hunter Tafe’s through research
students and volunteering programs. We also receive significant support from those organisations
mentioned above, Additionally Hunter Councils, Hunter Water, Newcastle University, National Parks
and Wildlife Service (NPWS), NSW Department of Education and Communities, APS and HBOC have
representation on the HWCA Board
HBOC, APS, Awabakal Local area Land Council, NPWS, Hunter Landcare and HWCA Volunteers are
also represented on the Site Management Committee. This committee is active in matters
pertaining to on - ground works.
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Close working relationships also exist with the NSW Ramsar Managers Network, Wetland Care
Australia (both based at HWCA) and NSW Office of Environment and Heritage through the “our
Places” collaboration project.
At the time of publishing this plan HWCA Director Christine Prietto holds the following positions:
Australian Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness(CEPA) Non-government Focal
Point for the Ramsar Convention Vice Chair and Thematic Expert for Education, Ramsar Convention
Scientific and Technical Panel 2013-2015 Member, Winton Wetlands Committee of Management’s
Scientific and Technical Advisory Group Member, East Asian Australasian Flyway Partnership CEPA
Working Group
CEO Ken Conway is Chair of the NSW Ramsar Managers Network and is a member of the Australian
Wetland Network Advisory Group.
Grant Morgan is the co-ordinator of the NSW Ramsar Managers Network
Post Graduate Student Representative Healthy Universities Steering Committee
Post Graduate Student Representative Callaghan Campus Landscape Consultative Committee
President of Newcastle University Postgraduate Students Association
Representative on the Hunter Volunteering Network
Member of Australasian Association of Managers of Volunteers
6.0 ECONOMIC VALUES
6.1 Recreation and Tourism
Shortland Wetlands offers a range of outdoor recreation opportunities with very easy access to high
conservation value wetlands for the local community. Activities can be physical and fun, such as
bushwalking and canoeing, Segway tours or tranquil and contemplative, such as birdwatching.
Visitors are exposed to a range of educational experiences, from interactive displays and
interpretive signs to presentations, guided tours, and self-guiding brochures. Facilities include a
café, bushwalking trails, boardwalks, observation decks, bird hides and much more.
In recent years the focus has shifted toward more active tourism and recreation pursuits at
Shortland Wetlands to attract a larger and younger demographic and to assist the organisation to
fulfil its mission to promote understanding, enjoyment and conservation of wetlands. Visitors also
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provide income to support The Wetlands Centre’s continued operations. In 2013 an educational
adventure ropes course will be added to the sites attractions.
As an ecotourism attraction, Shortland Wetlands can provide these same benefits to visitors from
outside our region. It has potential to shift public perception of Newcastle from an industrial city to
an ecologically sustainable city that values its natural environment. Similarly, it projects a strong
sense of community to outsiders.
We have also ventured into the corporate training market. This has been made possible by the
construction of the new Wetland Environmental Education Centre which freed up the ground floor
of the Visitor Centre for use as training and conference rooms.
To facilitate quality service HWCA has also re-established ownership of the café and rebranded it as
Spoonbill Café. The intention is to create a new profit centre.
There is great potential to package The Wetlands Centre with other natural attractions in the area
such as Kooragang Nature Reserve, Blackbutt Reserve, Hunter Region Botanic Gardens, the Bathers
Way and Glenrock SRA. If properly promoted, such packages would be attractive to the Sydney
ecotourism market, bringing economic benefits to the region.
The location of Shortland Wetlands in relation to other wetlands in the estuary and in concert with
the public access facilities and wetland education capabilities position The Wetlands Centre to
serve as a gateway for education, public access and community involvement for all wetland areas in
the lower Hunter. While this already occurs to some extent, partnership with other agencies and
organisations with an interest in wetlands, in this concept could deliver greatly improved and
better-integrated management for the conservation and long term maintenance of all lower Hunter
wetlands.
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6.2 Professional Development and Capacity Building
Although the number of paid positions offered through The Wetlands Centre is small, they offer
significant opportunities in the fields of administration, conservation, ecotourism and natural
resource management in a non-government setting. The involvement of volunteers in the operations
of The Wetlands Centre and ongoing management of Shortland Wetlands offers training
opportunities to many more individuals. Together these represent valuable training opportunities in
a region which has unusually high retraining needs due to industrial changes. The hands-on
involvement of community volunteers in site management and landscaping is especially significant.
The local community has developed good capacity levels in this area due to the number of wetland
projects which have followed. As on-going maintenance of wetlands will always be an area of need
in the Hunter Estuary, this capacity is of significant value.
As part of our Indigenous Engagement Policy we will also focus on helping build the capacity of our
Indigenous community to facilitate their involvement in managing our natural resources by creating
employment and training opportunities through grant based projects.
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7.0 MANAGEMENT AIMS
7.1 Aims
Flora To increase the current species diversity and structural characteristics
of aquatic and terrestrial plant communities through the guidance of
the 2009 Hunter Wetlands Centre Planting Lists (Winning 2009),
research and Australian Plant Society with the focus being on local
native plants.
Fauna
To maintain the ecological characteristics that support species
diversity, with an emphasis on avifauna that use the site at a critical
stage of their life cycle and during adverse conditions. We will also
work with Native Animal Trust Fund, NPWS and other research bodies
to reintroduce species where the facility and relevant research
provide suitable levels of support.
Hydrology To complete the instillation of infrastructure necessary to implement
the 2011 Hydrology Operations Management Plan which will enable
HWCA to ensure the quantity and quality of water entering and leaving
the site is consistent with the site’s geography and is sufficient to
maintain the diversity of habitat types present.
Cultural Heritage To protect and interpret the cultural values of the site in consultation
with traditional owner groups using their traditional and unique
knowledge to build social capital and capacity
Education To maintain the natural values, facilities and services that support
school and community education and to promote the use of
communication and education for wetland conservation
Community Involvement To engage, involve and guide the community in implementing site
management actions building social capital and community capacity in
wetland care.
Research To promote Shortland Wetlands as a site for wetland research.
Partnerships To facilitate partnerships that foster skills transfer and conservation
outcomes that benefit all wetlands in the Hunter Estuary.
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Tourism and Recreation To maintain the ecological character, facilities and services that
support ecotourism and foster responsible visitor use of wetland
environments while providing income to support our ecological goals.
To promote understanding, appreciation, wise use and conservation of
wetlands.
Capacity Building To provide training opportunities and capacity-building in wetland
conservation, rehabilitation and interpretation.
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7.2 Key Risks
Some of the key risks to the natural, social and economic values of Shortland Wetlands are discussed
below.
7.2.1 Hydrology and Pollution
Prior to 1990, the natural hydrology of Shorthand Wetlands had been significantly altered by
developments on and around the site. The drainage of the wetlands resulted in most of the run-off
from the site flowing into the drainage canal along the northern boundary of the site (Winning
1989).
Most of the remnant natural wetlands on the site have exhibited occasional signs of eutrophication,
such as emission of odorous gases (e.g. Hydrogen sulphide), algal blooms, and dominance by
eutrophytes (e.g. Triglochin procera, Spirodela pusilla, Azolla spp.). Limited measurements of
water quality have indicated occasional high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen compounds,
especially in the Paperbark Swamp and the Water Ribbon Pond. The BHP pond has also exhibited
occasional signs of eutrophication (algal blooms). At the Water Ribbon Pond, a study by Bischof and
Brown (1996) showed that the pond was eutrophic with high levels of total phosphorus recorded
throughout their 5-month study (June to October 1996). They also found that micro-invertebrate
diversity was very low indicating some pollution problems.
Eutrophication previously caused by a number of factors including excessive nutrient input from
sources such as sewage overflow (an overflow pipe discharges into the Melaleuca Swamp) and urban
run-off should have been eliminated by the 2012 sewerage upgrade carried out by Hunter Water. It
will need to be monitored during flood events to ensure the upgrade has eliminated the problem
Other sources of eutrophication, including bird faeces and the substrate of the artificial ponds
containing high nutrient material which was previously dumped on the site as fill, may be
contributing to the eutrophication problem. Eutrophication may also occur in a pond or part of a
pond as a result of concentration of nutrients due to evaporation or stagnation, particularly during
periods of low rainfall. Changes in other water quality parameters, especially pH, may also result in
the release of nutrients trapped in sediments.
These issues lead HWCA to commission various studies and reports to facilitate systems return to
health.
The BMT WBM Hunter Wetlands Centre Hydrology and Water Quality Study June 2008, Hunter
Wetlands Centre Planting Lists 2009 (G Winning), BMT WBM Environmental Impact Statement:
Hunter Wetlands Centre Hydrological and Ecological Restoration September 2010 and BMT WBM
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Hydrology Operations Management Plan Hunter Wetlands Centre October 2011 represents a serious
body of research which will facilitate the management of the Hydrology and pollution issues
discussed above and elsewhere in the document. In 2012 the Wetland Centre in conjunction with
Wetland Care Australia and HCRCMA also designed an implemented an Environmental Management
System to control potential pollution flowing from the operation of the APS and HWCA nurseries
located adjacent to the Canoe Channel which feeds into Ironbark Creek.
7.2.2 Pest Plants
There are many exotic plant species that occur at Shortland Wetlands, and in the backyards of
neighbouring residents. Occasionally, local residents dump rubbish on the site, clear vegetation
near their fences, and plant exotic tree species, which are all activities that can enhance the
spread of weeds on the site. Many exotic plants that occur at Shortland Wetlands have the
potential to become environmental weeds and therefore pose a threat to the site’s values. If not
controlled, pest plants may dramatically alter the structure and composition of remaining native
plant communities, leading to a loss of native plant species and changes in habitat characteristics
for native fauna (MacArthur and MacArthur 1961; Loyn and French 1991; Lott and Duggin 1993;
Recher et al. 1995; French and Zubovic 1997; Ekert and Bucher 1999). Many weed species existed on
the site because of its prior use as a dump. Others however are distributed from nearby areas by,
various means such as wind borne seed, movement of storm water, imported mulch, and via people
and birds.
‘Environmental’ weeds are exotic plants that invade native vegetation, adversely affecting native
flora. When environmental weeds invade native vegetation, they often form mono-specific stands,
causing changes in food resources and habitat structure, usually resulting in a reduction of the
diversity and abundance of native plant and animal species (MacArthur and MacArthur 1961).
Our main focus will be to remove those weeds which are listed in the WON’s list and or the HCRCMA
priority list of weeds as these have catchment wide implications if left to spread although all weeds
in a revegetation area will be removed as part of the revegetation process. The control of such
weeds is a requirement by law; they are listed by type and class via the local Council, and other
government departments, along with level of control and related information on control methods.
The most serious terrestrial weed species that occur at Shortland Wetlands include Bitou Bush
(Chrysanthemoides monilifera), Small-leaved Privet (Ligustrum sinense), Wandering Jew
(Tradescantia albiflora), Lantana (Lantana camara), Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), Castor Oil Plant
(Ricinus communis), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), Balloon Vine
(Cardiospermum grandiflorum), Madeira Vine (Anredera cordifolia), Moth Vine (Araujia sericifera),
Green Cestrum (Cestrum parqui), Camphor Laurel (Cinnamon camphora) and Kikuyu (Pennisetum
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clandestinum). Dock (Rumex spp.), Water Primrose (Ludwigia peruviana), and Pennywort
(Hydrocotyle bonariensis), African Olive (Olea euopea spp), Broad-Leaf Privet (ligustrum lucidum),
Jasmine (Mandevilla laxa), Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica), Mexican Pine (Pinus spp), Guinea Grass
(Panicum maximum var.maximum), Asparagus Fern (Asparagus virgatus), Onion Weed
(Nothoscordum borbonicum or N gracile), Canna Lily (Canna x generslis), Wandering Creeper
(Trandescantia Fuminensis oralbiflora or zebrine), Couch (Cynodon dactylon), African Daisy
(Senecio pterophorus), Easter Cassia ( Senna pendula var. glabrata), Purpletop (Verbina
bonariensis), Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) and Elm (Ulmus spp)
Because of past uses of site the understory is also made up of a large number of weed grasses and
annuals
The most serious aquatic weed species that occur on the site include Alligator Weed (Alternanthera
philoxeroides) which is currently being attacked by an ongoing spraying campaign , Torpedo Grass
(Panicum repens) which grows in or near shallow waters forming monocultures where it can quickly
displace native vegetation. It has taken hold in BHP Pond, Brambles Pond and Moorhen Swamp.
Sharp Rush (Juncus acutus) which is closely related to a number of native rush species but is
invasive also poses a significant threat as it also displaces native vegetation. Isolated plants have
been found on various locations close to Ironbark Creek. It appears to be well established in Hexham
Swamp.
Management actions and or plans backed by grant funds are underway to control or diminish most of
these threats.
7.2.3 Pest Animals
Introduced animals that occur at The Wetlands Centre and which pose the most serious threat to
native fauna include the Black Rat (Rattus rattus), House Mouse (Mus musculus), Red Fox (Vulpes
vulpes), Domestic Cat (Felis catus), Common Myna (Acridotheres tristus), Common Starling (Sturnus
vulgaris), and Mosquito Fish (Gambusia holbrooki). The Black Rat and House Mouse breed
prolifically especially after rainfall events. These species are most abundant in and around the feed
distribution areas. Apart from the threat of both of these species spreading disease, the Black Rat
poses a threat to shore-breeding birds, shorebirds, and the Long-necked Tortoise by predating eggs
and nestlings. Red Foxes gain entry to Shortland Wetlands via gaps in the predator-proof fence that
surrounds the site. The fence was completed around 3 sides of the site in 2009 leaving the western
boundary with Ironbark Creek and a gap at the canoe channel site exit as the two remaining points
from which foxes, feral cats and dogs can now gain entry to the site. Their main target is the
Melaleuca Swamp Forest and they have been recorded preying on juvenile Egrets that nest at high
densities within the forest (G. Nichols pers. comm.) Red Foxes also pose a threat to other species
such as ground nesting and ground feeding bird species. Brown Hares also occur on site and their
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preference for new grass shoots and newly planted trees as a source of food poses a threat to the
regeneration of vegetation. Along with rabbits, they present competition for grazing, protective
cover and habitat, and can be a threatening process to some native fauna and avi-fauna.
In 2009 permission was gained to commence fox baiting on site. The program involves three rounds
per year at key control times including one to coincide with the commencement of egret breeding.
This has significantly reduced the incidence of fox, feral cat and dog predation on site. A
comprehensive monitoring program is in place to ensure it is effective.
Baiting for rabbits and hares commenced in 2013. Their population has tended to increase as a
result of a reduction in foxes.
The Mosquito Fish occurs in all of the freshwater and saline ponds and waterways across Shortland
Wetlands site. This species is a small fish with its origins in Central America. Currently, Mosquito
Fish can be found in most permanent water-bodies in Australia where a low flow regime exists, and
there is adequate vegetation in which to shelter (Lund, 1994). Mosquito Fish pose a threat to macro
invertebrate communitiesas well as rotifers, cladocerans, ostracods, copepods, odonata and snails.
Considerable field and laboratory evidence has been gathered to indicate that the Mosquito Fish
(Gambusia holbrooki) has a negative impact on native frogs, fish and invertebrates in Australia and
therefore may pose a serious threat to these communities that occur on the site, including being
listed as a threatening process for the Green and Golden Bell Frogs.
Management is investigation possible solutions. A shelf project is being developed to include
methods for control, including establishing required permits and associated review of environmental
factors, and research into possible native replacement species suitable for the local area. Planning
will include identifying possible sources of applications for funding.
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7.3 Management Actions for Natural Values
VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
FLORA Purpose: To maintain and increase the current species diversity and structural characteristics of aquatic and terrestrial plant communities.
The mosaic of wetland vegetation communities and species.
To provide a model of wetlands that support endemic plants and a mosaic of vegetation communities.
Use HWCA Nursery to maintain and extend biodiversity of plant communities and species on site.
Lack of planting and subsequent representation of aquatic plants and ‘edge’ species.
Weed Invasion
Use Winning Planting List 2009 and APS advice in relation to plant selection. Apply for grants to revegetate wetlands.
Propagate selected species in HWCA nursery and buy in additional species if required as stock plants
Manage weed species removal as grant funds are available and ensure a mosaic pattern of compensatory habitat is available to counter the possibility of local fauna population extinction events
Fire Establish a Bush Fire Committee.
Prepare a Bushfire Risk Management Plan
(BRMP). Committee function is currently
performed via the HWCA Site Management
Committee.
The BRMP must be reviewed and updated
at 5 year intervals. With annual monitoring
and reporting requirements.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Estuarine plant communities.
Maintain established communities in suitable habitat.
Weed invasion of shoreline. Manage weed species by application of grant funding.
Increase biodiversity of propagation for nursery and plantings
Fresh water aquatic plant communities.
To maintain representative samples of fresh water aquatic plant communities.
Weed invasion, especially Alligator Weed, Juncus acutus and Torpedo Grass.
Work in partnership with neighbouring land management agencies to control Alligator Weed.
Map and monitor Alligator Weed.
Seek grant funding to suppress Alligator weed in partnership with a community-based contractor such as Greening Australia or Trees in Newcastle.
Engage volunteers to conduct annual follow-up control.
Seek Grant funding to suppress Torpedo Grass and Juncus acutus
Monitor and map Torpedo Grass
Changes to natural hydrology Implement Hydrology Operations Management Plan (OMP)
Algal blooms. Maintain water quality and manage nutrient levels by completing infrastructure and implementing OMP
Terrestrial margin vegetation Communities
Maintain ecological character of terrestrial wetland interface.
Weeds
Map critical weed infestations, monitor and remove and revegetate with biodiverse plantings as grant funds allow
Inappropriate use Direct visitors away from wetland margins, except in strategic locations. Manage these locations for purpose intended.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Hydrology change. Implement Hydrology OMP on completion of infrastructure works
Terrestrial plant communities
Maintain ecological character of terrestrial communities
Weeds.
Manage weed species listed in 7.2.2 plus any others that occur.
.
Nutrients. Manage site runoff water quality.
Senescence. Manage ecological processes, including fire (Refer Bush Fire Hazard Assessment March 2010 0106124_BFA_01 Final ERM)
Plant species disturbance Monitor for disturbance events such as sudden survival loss, and develop appropriate response as required.
Melaleuca Swamp Forest
Maintain ecological character of mature Melaleuca Swamp Forest.
Fire. Investigate need to Develop Fire Management Plan and ensure appropriate fire mosaic regime.
Refer Bush Fire Hazard Assessment March
2010 0106124_BFA_01 Final ERM
Prolonged flooding and/or inundation.
Ensure regulated natural hydrological regime. Refer Hydrology EIS 2010 and Hydrology Operations Management Plan 2011
Chronic decline from roosting bird population and nesting.
Maintain health of trees. Refer Hydrology EIS 2010 and Hydrology Operations Management Plan 2011
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Loss of survival of Hunter Water Offset Plantings in and around Melaleuca Swamp Forest, or re-infestation by weeds.
Monitor survival and replace plantings as required.
Perform annual weed maintenance runs for HCRCMA priority weeds and WONS.
Mature terrestrial forest Maintain ecological character of mature terrestrial forest.
Fire.
Ensure natural mosaic fire regime.
Senescence. Provide artificial mature forest habitat (nest boxes)- 80 being installed by July 2017
Weeds. Manage weeds.
Showcase horticultural values of Australian native plants.
To promote the use of Australian native flora for gardening.
Ongoing cost Continue to work in partnership with the Australian Plants Society (APS) to propagate plant and maintain native flora gardens surrounding the Visitor's Centre.
Expand and complete Bush Tucker and Butterfly Display Gardens including interpretive signage.
Demonstration site for Bush Regeneration.
To utilise and demonstrate best practice in bush regeneration methods.
Lack of available qualified staff and volunteer resources.
Continue to recruit and support volunteer participants in the Landcare groups on site.
Link into local networks to gain access to training opportunities and further resources.
Lack of expertise. Continue to provide training opportunities for Landcare volunteers.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Assist staff to upgrade training in bush regeneration. When employing additional site staff ensure they bring appropriate skill base.
FAUNA Purpose: To maintain the ecological characteristics that support species diversity, with an emphasis on avifauna that use the site at a critical stage of their life cycle and during adverse conditions.
Species diversity. To increase species diversity. Lack of data on variations in
abundance, diversity etc. Establish integrated monitoring and reporting systems for key species.
Maintain and expand species reintroduction project in conjunction with NATF and NPWS
Lack of species and individuals on site
Work with NATF and NPWS to continue to release species appropriate to site.
Lack of suitably qualified staff. Identify and apply for grants or self-fund a qualified ecologist to manage the site for fauna biodiversity.
Feral animals. Continue fox and rabbit control in partnership with NPWS, Local Land Services and Newcastle Council.
Regularly inspect and maintain predator proof fence.
Conduct education campaigns with neighbours in partnership with NCC to promote responsible pet ownership.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Birds To continue to provide habitat for a wide range of sedentary, nomadic and migratory bird species.
Shortage of suitable nesting and roosting sites.
Where suitable, erect nesting boxes for targeted bird species. Biodiversity Fund project includes 80 nest boxes by July 2017.
Manage weed removal process to avoid local population extinction events by ensuring compensatory habitat exists nearby.
To maintain reedy margins and open grass lands for warblers.
Weed growth and overplanting Maintain healthy habitat around pond margins.
Enhance understorey foliage cover for passerines.
Understorey clearing Ensure diversity in planting strategies.
Maintain open flyways for swans and pelicans.
Inappropriate tree planting Clear flyways when necessary and avoid unnecessary planting.
Clarify Flyways with HBOC assistance
Maintain existing habitat diversity for raptors.
Altering habitat Improve diversity in native planting to increase food load on site for all species.
Heron and Ibis species
To manage the Melaleuca Swamp Forest as a key breeding and roosting habitat.
Defoliation of Melaleuca caused by a high abundance of nesting and roosting birds.
Complete Hydrology Infrastructure works and implement Hydrology OMP
Maintain Melaleuca biomass by strategic revegetation / regeneration.
Retain dead trees as perch and roost sites for bird species.
Implement management of water regime to encourage drying at appropriate times.
Eutrophication. See "Hydrology".
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To record and report on use patterns and breeding success of Egret spp. and Ibis spp.
Lack of resources.
Loss of involvement of project co-ordinator.
Maintain partnership with Hunter Bird Observers and provide training in Project Egret Watch and Ibis counts for a group of volunteers and ground staff at HWCA
Migratory waders
(shorebirds).
Maintain migratory shorebird habitat area and quality.
Perception that dry ponds are not attractive to visitors.
Interpret positive values of ephemeral nature of water quality, flora and fauna and breeding.
Artificial water level in constructed ponds.
To allow seasonal drying of ponds to create ephemeral muddy margins by implementing Hydrology OMP on completion of hydrology construction works.
To maintain some shallow margins of Brambles and Water Ribbon ponds with minimal vegetation cover to provide foraging areas for shorebirds.
Growth of terrestrial reed species that inhibit feeding and provide cover for prey species.
Map and monitor the growth of reed species in shallow margins of all ponds
Remove vegetation if necessary.
Waterfowl
To maintain breeding and foraging sites for waterfowl.
Lack of density of reed species that provide habitat and nesting sites for small insectivorous birds, and waterfowl.
Maintain reedy margins of wetlands
Encourage water plant growth by periodically drying of ponds once Hydrology OMP is implemented.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To provide roosting sites for waterfowl. Erosion on the margins of Gilligan’s Island and water level in Brambles Pond submerging islands.
Maintain condition of islands in BHP and Brambles. Maintain Brambles water level to expose 3 islands where weather allows
Australasian Bittern To manage the Iron Bark Marsh and Reed Marsh Swamps to allow suitable habitat to remain part of the wetland mosaic.
Choked swamp from Phragmities and reeds
Open up drainage channels and removal of weed species.
Monitor for visitation, and record field observations on preference areas when sighted as visiting the site.
Continue to consult expertise and conduct research that will allow appropriate management of potential habitat areas.
Seek funding for project management of habitat areas.
Magpie Geese To showcase this locally threatened species as an ambassador for wetland conservation.
Interpret the history of threats to this species in the Hunter in the context of wetland conservation.
To encourage Magpie Geese to forage for natural food and be self sufficient
Overfeeding and reliance on being hand fed.
Gradually reduce the frequency of hand feeding of Magpie Geese.
To provide breeding habitat for Magpie Geese.
Constant site inundation reducing nesting opportunities
Research ecological parameters for breeding sites for Magpie Geese; identify potential sites in Reed Marsh and Moorhen Swamp.
Encourage the growth of Eleocharis (spike-rush), a known breeding plant used by Magpie Geese, in Reed Marsh and Moorhen Swamp by periodic drying.
To document key areas for breeding and movements of the Magpie Goose within
Lack of knowledge of breeding sites and movements of the
Seek grant funding for research into the Magpie Goose in the Lower Hunter.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
the region. Magpie Goose within the region. Work in partnership with University of Newcastle and Hunter Bird Observers to undertake banding of some of the Magpie Geese and monitor the movements of those birds.
Monitor other wetlands within the region during the breeding season of Magpie Geese.
Freckled Duck
To showcase a captive population of Freckled Duck as an ambassador species for wetland conservation.
Lack of interest by visitors Seek grant funding to improve the education outcomes of the Freckled Duck display.
Seek funding to continue employ suitably qualified staff to manage fauna conservation including breeding and release programs such as the freckle duck.
To provide a high quality of life for the captive Freckled Ducks.
Eutrophication of enclosure ponds.
Monitor and improve water quality in Freckled Duck ponds by pumping from Water Ribbon to flush pond.
Lack of resources. Seek grants and sponsorships to fund improvements to viewing ducks in enclosure.
To maintain an active breeding program with a view to release.
Lack of resources.
Aging breeding colony
Investigate release program requirements and establish protocols for release.
Examine breeding DNA management, and instigate changes where identified as important for ongoing breeding performance.
Transfer excess stock to other breeders
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To practice humane husbandry that minimises the chance of breeding amongst Freckled Ducks on site.
Lack of knowledge and potential to reduce quality of life for the ducks.
Research and trial manipulation of shelter and feeding regimes to discourage breeding on site.
Protect any ducklings. Predation of ducklings by eels and rats.
Maintain eel trapping and rat baiting during breeding periods and prior to expected hatching of ducklings
Maintain predator proofing of enclosure
Overcrowding of breeding pairs and capacity of enclosure.
Transfer stock to other breeding centres such as Tidbinbilla
Nesting and feeding requirements will need to be varied from standard regime, and females must be isolated from competitors.
Provide suitable nest sites and feed regimes for breeding females in the nursery enclosure.
To investigate the biology of and husbandry of the species, record data, interpret results, and produce regular scientific reports
Lack of personnel/expertise to maintain enclosure, monitor birds, update records, order and apply bands and microchips
Employ a suitable Officer responsible for enclosure maintenance, bird monitoring, banding, micro-chipping, and scientific report writing.
Encourage University of Newcastle students to continue research.
Mammals To maintain and enhance the existing population of native mammals.
Competition and predation by exotic animals.
Regular inspections and maintenance of predator proof fence.
Continue Fox and Rabbit abatement programs
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Scarcity of suitable habitat. Continue to establish locally endemic plant species to provide habitat and corridors for native mammals.
Manage regenerating habitat for native mammals.
Establish artificial habitats in strategic locations by adding biodiversity piles in newly weeded revegetated areas.
Add nesting boxes for possums during as part of Biodiversity Fund Grant program
Continue to seek advice from SMC, NATF and NPWS on mammal related release on site and management of habitat requirements.
Frogs To maintain suitable habitat for the existing diversity of frog species.
Eutrophication of ponds from bird faeces and sewerage overflow.
See "hydrology".
Chemical pollution from stormwater entering the site.
See "hydrology".
Chemical use on site. Research and implement best practice in herbicide use for weed control based on the precautionary principle.
Only use environmentally friendly and appropriate chemicals in the GGBF area and ensure WHS obligations are met.
Continue to seek funding and provide training where required to volunteers and staff involved in chemical use on site.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To understand and promote frog habitation on site.
Lack of regular data on frog species diversity and abundance.
Introduce and conduct regular frog surveys as part of on site monitoring when capacity allows.
Link in with University of Newcastle monitoring programs.
Report on and interpret results as part of integrated monitoring program.
Lack of education resources promoting frogs.
Develop a display on frogs, using the Green and Golden Bell Frog as an icon (see below).
Green and Golden Bell
Frog To assist conservation of the Bell Frog by establishing a permanent habitat at Shortland Wetlands, reintroducing a breeding colony to the site.
Threatening process - Mosquito Fish.
Ensure water used to fill the ponds is pumped through mesh to keep out Gambusia.
Investigate and pursue funding and project development for Gambusia control on site.
Dispersal of the population. Maintain fencing regime to University research requirements around ponds to keep frogs on site for research program.
Predation by birds, especially heron spp.
Monitor predation. Utilise orchard netting on the fenced pond to exclude birds if required.
Fungal and viral infection. Autopsy specimens to ascertain cause of death.
Lack of adequate breeding, foraging and shelter conditions.
Cultivate native reeds at waters edge in constructed ponds, and manage water to reed balance as advised by UON in research area.
Ensure ponds hold water all year round.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Ensure drying of ponds approximately once every two years.
Provide rock walls for over-winter crevices and bask sites.
To monitor progress of translocated frogs and publish results
Lack of resources. Work in partnership with University of Newcastle to monitor research and report on the introduced colony.
To promote Bell Frogs as an ambassador species for wetland and frog conservation.
Potential stall in ongoing support and research momentum
Develop a display aquarium and educational signage that interprets the history of population decline amongst the species in the context of wetland conservation.
Include in Wetlands on Wheels and tank talk presentations content.
Continue to work with UON on research and help to communicate educational information.
Reptiles To maintain and enhance habitat values to support the endemic reptile populations.
Predation by introduced animals.
Provide adequate habitat and continue baiting programs established since 2009.
Lack of suitable habitat. Improve structural diversity of habitat for reptiles by retaining fallen timber, dense understoreys, rocks, dead trees etc.
Reintroduce additional species in conjunction with NATF where opportunity arises
Lack of availability or failure to have necessary permission in place
Research availability and suitability of species
Research legal requirements.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To minimise risk of snake bite for visitors.
Lack of awareness of risk minimisation.
Provide warning signs at known snake bask sites and lairs.
Warn visitors entering the site to stay on paths.
Keep vegetation piles away from track margins.
Aquatic Macro
invertebrates and Fish To maintain species diversity and abundance.
Poor habitat or water quality. See hydrology.
Also expand the monitoring process to establish population, diversity and health of population
Control of Gambusia on site to eliminate native predation and competition for habitat and food resources.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
HYDROLOGY Purpose: To ensure the quantity and quality of water entering and leaving the site is sufficient to maintain the diversity of habitat types.
Water quality
To monitor water quality on site.
Funding and staff constraints.
Work in partnership with the Wetlands Environmental Education Centre (WEEC) to undertake quarterly water quality monitoring (Waterwatch) at a range of locations representing inlets, ponds and outlets.
Lack of integrated monitoring and reporting system.
Enter results in the Waterwatch database monitor results and utilise in the implementation of the Hydrology OMPs.
To improve water quality entering the site.
Increased residential development in the catchment.
Develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalise a partnership with Newcastle City Council (NCC).
Work with NCC to provide buffers and/or filters between stormwater inlets and Wetlands Centre ponds.
Pollution from run off water. Work with NCC and neighbours to promote responsible behaviours that protect stormwater quality in the surrounding catchment.
Promote stringent development controls to protect stormwater quality associated with new developments in the catchment.
To protect water quality on site.
Excessive erosion and sedimentation.
Monitor and maintain vegetation cover around pond margins.
Implement erosion and sediment controls where necessary. Investigate and implement a plan to minimise Canoe Channel erosion caused by tidal movement and flood events
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Stabilise high use shores with retaining walls, mulch matting etc.
Establish erosion controls to protect establish pathways and maintain existing infrastructure to ensure protection against erosion and mitigation is in place.
Provide access to water bodies via boardwalks.
Pollution from run off generated on site, especially around Visitors Centre and access road.
Discourage visitor traffic around pond margins using native vegetation buffer zones and track design.
Develop car park erosion control and storm water run off management to prevent sedimentation and localised flooding of compound and VC ground floor amenities in high rainfall events.
Sewerage overflows. Develop an MOU and protocol with Hunter Water to manage and report on sewerage overflows.
Report all overflow incidents to Hunter Water and request infrastructure improvements and regular maintenance.
Maintain vegetated buffer zones between sewer discharge points and ponds.
Nutrient loading, eutrophication and subsequent outbreaks of algae caused by high concentration of bird faeces in rookeries.
Monitor nutrient levels in Melaleuca Swamp Forests on a monthly basis.
Implement Hydrology OMP on completion of infrastructure works.
To manage changes in salinity.
Changes in management of Ironbark Creek floodgates
Monitor and manage inundation by saline waters, impacts of tidal flows on vegetation, and benthic fauna.
Ensure saline water in the canoe canal and Ironbark Creek does not enter the freshwater ponds.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To demonstrate the values of wetlands for stormwater treatment.
Funding constraints. Seek grant funding for site interpretation.
Interpret hydrological services through a range of media including signage, displays, guided tours and brochures.
Water flows To ensure natural hydrological flow regime through the site.
Earth barriers used as trails and roads.
Implement Hydrology OMP on completion of infrastructure
Investigate pipe installation where necessary.
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7.4 Management Actions for Social Values
VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Purpose: To protect and interpret the cultural values of the site.
Aboriginal heritage To protect the integrity of the archaeological site.
Accidental damage to archaeological sites from other developments and activities.
Involve local Aboriginal community in the management of significant sites.
Seek advice from Aboriginal Community on management actions to inform pro-active protection of cultural assets and appropriate listing of, and identification of actions to protect and conserve assets discussed in the Hydrology EIS.
Showcase the value of wetlands to Aboriginal people.
Lack of participation and/or employment opportunities for cultural involvement.
Involve local Aboriginal community in the interpretation of natural and cultural heritage and the ongoing site rehabilitation effort both as volunteers and employees.
Conduct joint cultural displays with the indigenous community.
Interpret wetland and archaeological values.
History of rehabilitation
To record and present the history of community involvement with the site for volunteers and visitors.
Loss of local community knowledge.
Update recording and documentation, outlining the history of operations, restoration effort.
Insufficient resources and/or interest to document history.
Develop a presentation on site rehabilitation history using suitable media.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To showcase the site as demonstration site for community involvement in habitat/wetland rehabilitation.
Ongoing issues in volunteer recruitment and ongoing retention and participation, renewal of leadership and generational change.
Provide interpretive signage and displays that feature volunteer involvement.
EDUCATION Purpose: To maintain the natural values, facilities and services that support school and community education and to promote the use of communication and education for wetland conservation
Community education services
To provide high-quality community education programs that meet market needs while promoting wetland understanding, appreciation and conservation.
Insufficient funding to support programs.
Continue to monitor and evaluate participation rates in education programs.
Recruit and provide training opportunities and resources for volunteer guides.
Ensure all recreational activities have an educational component.
Implement the Hunter Ramsar Communication Strategy.
Insufficient trained guides. Upgrade interpretive displays and signage and develop WEB and phone based applications.
School education services
To provide a high-quality school wetland education program that reflects NSW DEC priorities and maximises use of site.
Demand for bookings which cannot be met by current staffing.
Maintain license agreement with the Department of Education and Training (DEC) to operate the Wetlands Environmental Education Centre.
Ensure routine maintenance of vantage points, tracks and boardwalks is of sufficient standard to meet DET needs.
Maintain a high level of safety on-site.
Evaluate progress regularly via user surveys.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Lack of integration between site management and DET needs.
Collaborate fully with DEC staff to provide facilities, infrastructure and interpretive displays and products that meet their needs.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Purpose: To engage, involve and guide the community in implementing site management actions.
Community involvement in wetland rehabilitation.
To provide opportunities for volunteering which increase capacity and contributes to the objectives of the organisation and create social capital.
Lack of experience and personnel to facilitate volunteers.
Identify and work with appropriate agencies to recruit and train volunteers and create greater public awareness of the need and opportunities created.
Provide a safe work and meeting environment by maintaining a comprehensive WHS system and training/SOP regime for volunteers
To consolidate regional expertise in conservation volunteering.
Lack of community interest. Provide appropriate training for volunteers.
Collaborate fully with volunteers in site management planning.
Hub for community based conservation.
To support partnerships and collaboration between special interest and conservation groups in the area.
Public liability insurance. Continue to provide meeting space and access to community groups.
Lack of facilities and infrastructure.
Continue to host public events with community groups and provide spaces for community activity around the site.
Partner with private organisations and grant bodies to ensure facilities are contemporary and meet market needs
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Threats to security associated with multiple users and night use.
Continue to support partnership projects with community groups.
Provide training, support and networking opportunities for community groups.
Membership Maintain a strong community support base as a source of funding, market for services and for advocacy.
Drop in membership numbers.
Maintain continuous and regular communication with members, including both recreational activity programs and scientific/conservation news.
Disengaged membership. Regularly review member services.
Non-government status
To represent community interests in wetland conservation, education, rehabilitation and wise use.
Lack of resources. Build networks and affiliations with other Non Government Organisations.
Utilise social media and promote wetlands status in public best interest and represent community interests to maintain value for the community
Maintain professional standards of the organisation while continuing to engage the community.
RESEARCH Purpose: To promote Shortland Wetlands as a site for wetland research.
Scientific research To realise research opportunities offered by site and operations.
Insufficient funds to support research.
Seek partnerships with the University of Newcastle, Hunter Tafe’s and other public and private research bodies
To provide high quality data for management planning.
Lack of qualified personnel. Implement monitoring to meet the requirements of the Ramsar Site Status Form to enable annual reporting on the Ramsar LAC’s
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
PARTNERSHIPS Purpose: To facilitate partnerships that foster skills transfer and conservation outcomes that benefit all wetlands in the Hunter Estuary.
Conservation partnerships
To build partnerships with other organisations in the Hunter associated with bush regeneration and wetland rehabilitation.
Lack of resources (time, personnel, funding)
Seek opportunities to collaborate with HCRCMA (Local Land Services), KWRP, Landcare, HBOC, APS, NATF, SOFAR, Hunter Native Fish and wetland-based conservation groups in the region.
7. 5 Management Actions for Economic Values
VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
TOURISM AND RECREATION
Purpose: To maintain the ecological character, facilities and services that support ecotourism.
To promote understanding, appreciation, wise use and conservation of wetlands.
Ecotourism attraction To manage visitor impacts to maintain natural values while providing high class visitor experiences.
Erosion and compaction of shorelines.
Maintain boardwalks and pontoons to provide safe access to ponds while protecting shorelines from erosion.
Visitor interference with bird breeding
Monitor visitor impacts on breeding behaviour. Implement temporary track closures if necessary.
Visitor impacts on tranquil experience of wetlands.
Manage bookings and guiding programs to ensure a high quality experience for all groups.
Create appropriately placed public places and trails to ensure quality opportunities exist for visitors to interact with environmental values without degrading them.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To promote understanding, appreciation and conservation of wetlands to visitors.
To provide interpretation that enhances visitor understanding, appreciation, enjoyment and support for conservation of wetlands.
Existing interpretation is of generally poor standard.
Provide new interpretive signage for the site with particular attention to the Butterfly Garden and an Aboriginal occupation timeline series of signage.
Enhance interactive displays in the Visitor’s Centre and change displays regularly to engage return visitors.
Review and improve information on self guiding brochures.
Improve interpretive services by providing a guiding manual and regular guide training workshops.
Purchase more binoculars and promote hire.
Train guides from volunteer cohort. Provide WEB and phone based tour applications
Incorporate presentations, walks and bird watching activities into catered functions.
Maintain all tracks, bridges and boardwalks and ensure adequate linkage of public places.
Introduce art to engage the imagination of visitors.
Apply for grants that fund enhanced visitor services and facilities and public places.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
To attract visitors to the site as a source of funding and target group for education.
Competition from other providers in the region.
Work with other ecotourism providers to create attractive packages and contemporary products are introduced with the assistance of private and government funding.
Services that fail to meet demand.
Ensure services meet market demands.
Passive Recreation
E.g.:
Bushwalking
Bird watching
Camping
Picnicking
To provide a network of tracks, observation points and public spaces that is safe and easy to negotiate for all visitors.
Lack of space for public being provided for in site revegetation planning process
Ensure tourism objectives and public places are considered in revegetation planning process.
Insufficient staffing and resources to maintain tracks
Review and improve tracks and enhance public places and ensure ongoing maintenance of existing Public Places. These should address mowing, spraying, overhanging branches, trip hazards, weeds, resurfacing gravel paths etc.
Map vantage points and public places used by teachers and guides and develop a schedule for maintenance.
Maintain clear sight lines to the wetlands from all vantage points and public places.
Review track routes with a view to incorporating informal tracks into the network and improving traffic flow.
Active Recreation
e.g.
Canoeing, Ropes Course,
To facilitate an alternative recreational experience and access to Ironbark Creek to introduce an additional demographic to the natural values of the site and
Safety and risk management.
Provide trained staff and volunteers to facilitate contemporary products
Review legislative and WHS requirements for all activities and ensure PL insurance is adequate.
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VALUE OBJECTIVES THREATS STRATEGIES
Bike Riding, Orienteering wetlands in general Failure to maintain a contemporary product offering
Develop a schedule for maintenance of all infrastructure and public places to ensure it remains contemporary and update products and service standards regularly
Public safety To minimise risks to public safety Identify and manage risks though the developing and maintaining a comprehensive WHS policy and procedures system.
Ensure all contractors use trained staff have WHS systems and adequate insurance cover for staff and public.
CAPACITY BUILDING Purpose: To provide training opportunities and capacity-building in wetland conservation, rehabilitation and interpretation and ecotourism.
Training in wetland rehabilitation and ecotourism guiding for staff, volunteers and the wider community.
Maximise opportunities for training associated with site operations for indigenous and non indigenous staff and volunteers.
Investigate the availability of new technologies and its application to capacity building.
Insufficient staffing and resources.
Identify and engage relevant partners to provide and or assist in organising and conducting training workshops
Fund and support staff and volunteer training in appropriate fields.
Develop a range of training products incorporating the use of modern technologies and contemporary research to service HWCA and our partners’ needs.
Seek recognition and funding to train staff and community volunteers in wetland rehabilitation and ecotourism ventures.
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8.0 ORGANISATION
8.1 Funding
The Wetlands Centre must secure real and ongoing financial support to continue site restoration and
meet the other objectives of this plan. This support will allow The Centre to achieve the next level
of development, add value to an existing community asset and increase HWCA's capacity to self-
generate income. Our main areas of funding are:
Grant Funding and Sponsorship
o Project tied philanthropic grants and sponsorship from private companies
o Project tied grants from Federal and State Government departments and
instrumentalities.
o Private Sponsorship
Ecotourism Income
Spoonbill Café
Nursery Income
o External sales
o Staff contracting of land and conservation management consultation, weed control
and landcare team leading, planting and nursery related skills and tasks.
Education income
o Student activity
o Building Lease
Since 2009 HWCA has put in place an income diversification strategy to assist with financial viability
issues. Despite this HWCA still remains grant dependant to continue the massive task of completing
site revegetation and improving the biodiversity of the site.
Current strategies for increasing income include:
A product diversification plan e.g. the intended introduction of an adventure ropes course in
2013, commercialising of the nursery in 2012, increasedcanoeing for schools, refurbishing the
bottom floor of the Visitor Centre for training rooms and small conferences, investigation on
site camping opportunities and conducting fundraising events such as The Hunter Canoe
Challenge.
The Board and management hold a Strategy Day each January to brainstorm ideas with the
intention of improving financial outcomes.
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Continuing of a detailed marketing program to increase visitation and membership of The
Wetlands Centre.
A sponsorship package with comprehensive benefits for major sponsors and supporters.
Applications for grant funding at local, state and federal levels.
8.2 Organisational Structure and Work Flows
Site management is guided by the Site Management Committee, which meets bi monthly. It has a
reporting and consultation role with the HWCA Board and is usually chaired by a Director of HWCA.
The committee currently has eleven members, including the Chief Executive Officer, Site Manager,
two Site Staff volunteers representing the Australian Plants Society, HWCA Directors, The Thursday
Mob, Hunter Land care, the Wetlands Environmental Education Centre, National Parks and Wildlife
Service, Awabakal Local Area Land Council and other interested parties. Tasks identified during the
bi monthly site inspections are prioritised and allocated to staff and volunteer groups for
completion as resources allow.
The Committee and its members also identify and discuss various projects that are capable of
supporting a range of grant applications which can form the basis of applications to various levels of
government, be funded as environmental offset projects or by philanthropic companies or
individuals.
The Site Management Committee and SMP process also results in the following:
A significant number of workshops being held each year with staff and volunteers to:
Identify actions and projects to be pursued in the coming year that will facilitate the
implementation SMP strategies.
Identify volunteer-led projects and ensure they meet the SMP objectives.
Ensure that Grant and funding applications and work plans align with the SMP objectives and
strategies.
Review the progress of on site work and grant projects
Review the general environmental health of the site
Report on and review the actions that implement SMP strategies and objectives
The reporting of outcomes to the board and monitoring the acquittal process of all grants
8.3 Monitoring
Many of the SMP strategies involve monitoring, reporting and analysing scientific data on a range of
ecological parameters. Important data is collected and recorded by staff and volunteers covering a
range of projects and environmental factors. A lot of the data which includes photographs is used to
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facilitate grant acquittals and to monitor the environmental health of the site. HWCA encourages
volunteer participation in the monitoring program.
In 2011 the Ramsar Rolling Review process designed a Site Status Form (SSF) which lists all the sites
Limits of Acceptable Change for significant environmental factors that form the basis of the sites
Ecological Character Description (ECD). The ECD was the basis of the sites 2002 Ramsar Listing.
It is HWCA’s aim to extend its already comprehensive monitoring plan which was completed and
signed off by the NSW Environmental Trust in 2012 to enable the SSF to be completed on an annual
basis. The in - depth study of the site brought about by the monitoring process uncovers a
continuing list of projects upon which grant applications can be based. It also provides exciting
education and training opportunities.
Coupled with this most grantor bodies require a significant level monitoring and reporting to ensure
ongoing funding and the timely completion of projects to the required standard.
8.4 Review
The Shortland Wetlands SMP will be comprehensively reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it
remains contemporary. The Site Management Committee will provide an overview role to ensure the
regular reviews reflect the progress of on ground works.
A complete review will take place after 7 years or earlier in the event of an unanticipated change in
ecological character.
9.0 REFERENCES (TO BE UPDATED)
Archer, D. (1998). Visitor satisfaction, the Wetlands Centre. Unpublished thesis, University of
Newcastle. Callaghan, NSW.
Barker, J. et al (1995). A Field Guide to Australian Frogs. Chipping Norton, NSW, Surry Beatty.
Beretta, M. (1998). Flora of the Shortland Wetlands, NSW. University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW.
Unpublished thesis.
Bischof, H. and Brown, N. (1996). Hydrology, water quality and macroinvertebrates of the
Shortland Wetlands. University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW. Unpublished thesis.
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 – 2023
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BMT WBM (2008) Hunter Wetlands Centre Hydrology and Water Quality Study R.N1506.001.00 June
2008
BMT WBM (2010) Environmental Impact Statement: Hunter WetlandsCentre Hydrological and
Ecological Restoration R.N1879.001.01 September 2010
BMT WBM (2011) Hydrology Operations Management Plan Hunter Wetlands Centre Final Version R.N
1879.004.02 October 2011
Briggs, S.V. (year unrecorded) Wetlands, an introduction. Wetlands in NSW edited by Haigh, C.
National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Clarke, P.J. (1993). Mangrove, saltmarsh and peripheral vegetation of Jervis Bay. Cunninghamia
3, 231-54.
Cogger, H.G. (1975). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Ah & AW Reed Pty Ltd, NSW.
Department of Natural Resources and Environment (2000). Threatened vertebrate fauna in Victoria.
Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne, VIC.
Department of Public Works and Services, (1972). Hunter Valley flood mitigation: Hexham Swamp
Environmental Impact Statement. DPWS, NSW.
Department of Public Works and Services, (2000). Ironbark Creek Water Quality Monitoring Interim
Report. DPWS, NSW.
Department of Primary Industries – work instructions are used for pest control methodology and
reference knowledge, Rabbits, Fox’s, etc.
Department of Primary Industries – Saunders and McLeod “ Improving Fox Management Strategies in
Australia.”
Draffen, R.D.W., Garnett, S.T. and Malone, G.J. (1983) Birds of the Torres Strait; an annotated list
and biogeographical analysis. Emu, 4, 207-234.
Ekert, P.A. and Bucher, D.J. (1999). The winter use of Large-leafed Privet Ligustrum lucidum
(Family: Oleaceae) by birds in suburban Lismore. Proceedings of the Linnean Society of NSW. 121,
31-40.
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Environment Australia (2001). A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia. Third Edition.
Environment Australia, Canberra.
ERM Pty Ltd (2010) Environmental Learning Centre Bush Fire Hazard Assessment Hunter Wetland
Centre Australia March 2010 0106124_BFHA_01 Final
French, K. and Zubovic, A. (1997). Effect of the weed Chrysanthemoides monilifera (bitou bush)
on bird communities. Australian Wildlife Research 24 (6): 727-735.
Geering, D. (1995). Ecology of migratory shorebirds in the Hunter River Estuary. Shortland Wetlands
Centre, NSW.
Hamer, A. (1998). Aspects of the ecology of the green and golden bell frog (Litoria aurea) on
Kooragang Island, New South Wales, Australia. The University of Newcastle, Geography and
Environmental Science Dept, NSW.
Hamer, Lane and Mahony (2002), “Management of Freshwater Wetlands for the Management of
Green and Golden Bell Frogs (Litoria aurea): roles of habitat determinants and space. Biological
Conservation 106, 413 – 424
Heritage and Brougham (2011) “Butterflies and Bushland The Illustrated Guide tio Ash Island
butterflies” Greg Tapp Printing, Mayfield Australia.**
HCRCMA (2009) “Aboriginal Culturally Significant Landscapes in the Hunter-Central Rivers Region”
HCRCMA, Paterson, Australia.**
HRCMA – Catchment Action Plan** ()
Ironbark Creek Total Catchment Management (TCM) Committee. (1996). Ironbark Creek TCM
Strategy, Volume 1, Summary Report. Hunter Catchment Management Trust, NSW.
Ironbark Creek TCM Committee. (1996). Ironbark Creek TCM Strategy, Volume 2, Summary Report.
Hunter Catchment Management Trust, NSW.
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 – 2023
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Little, G. (1999). Report on frogs found at Shortland Wetlands Centre, Shortland. Conservation
Committee, The Wetlands Centre. Shortland, NSW.
Lott, R. L. and Duggin, J. A. (1993). Conservation and long-term viability of subtropical rainforest
remnants of the Big Scrub, north-eastern NSW. Department of Ecosystem Management, University
of New England, Armidale.
Loyn, R. H. and French, K. (1991). Birds and environmental weeds in south-eastern Australia.
Plant Protection Quarterly 6,137-148.
MacArthur, R. W. and MacArthur, J. W. (1961). On bird species diversity. Ecology 42, 594-598.
MacDonald Wagner (1984). Ecological study of State Highway No. 23 (Shortland to Pacific Highway
Corridor). Department of Main Roads, Hunter Division, NSW.
Maddock, M. (2000a). Egret information sheet: Hunter Valley colonies. The Wetlands Centre
Australia, Shortland, NSW.
Maddock, M. (2000b). Herons in Australasia and Oceania. In Kushlan, J. A. and Hafner, H (Eds.)
Heron Conservation. Academic Press: London
Marchant, S. and Higgins, P.J. (1990). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds.
Vol. 1, Part. B: Australian Pelicans to Ducks. O.U.P. Melbourne, VIC.
Martindale, J. (1998). Kooragang Nature Reserve and Hexham Swamp Nature Reserve Plan of
Management. National Parks and Wildlife Service. Hurstville, NSW.
Matthei, L.E. 1995, Soil Landscapes of the Newcastle 1:100 000 Sheet Map. Department of Land &
Water Conservation, Sydney.
McDonald, K. and Winning, G. (1986). Flora and Fauna of Shortland Wetlands, Newcastle. Hunter
Wetlands Trust.
Mitch, W.J. and Gosselink, J.G. (1986). Wetlands. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.
Montague, C.L., Bunker, S.M., Haines, E.B., Pace, M.L. & Wetzel, R.L. (1981). Aquatic
macroconsumers. In: The Ecology of a Saltmarsh (Eds L.R. Pomeroy & R.G. Weigert), pp. 69-85.
Springer-Verlag, New York.
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 – 2023
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Murray, M. (1990). The re-introduction of the Magpie Goose, Anseranas semipalmata (Latham) to
the Shortland Wetlands. University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW (Unpublished thesis).
Newcastle City Council, (2000). Newcastle Stormwater Management Plan. Newcastle City Council,
NSW.
Noake, C. et al, (2001). How does the community perceive the offerings of the Wetlands Centre?
Unpublished thesis, University of Newcastle. Callaghan, NSW.
NRM – Outcomes, Prospectus, Native Vegetation, Biodiversity and Wildlife Corridor Plans.
Office of Environment and Heritage “Summary of Plan of Management Community Workshop
Proceedings (25/03/12 OEH – Hunter Wetlands National Park”
Odum, E.P. (1961). The role of tidal marshes in estuarine production. The Conserv. 35, 12-5.
Odum, E.P. (1980). The status of three ecosystem-level hypotheses regarding saltmarsh estuaries:
tidal subsidy, outwelling, and detritus-based food chains. In: Estuarine Perspectives (ed. V.S.
Kennedy), 485-95. Academic Press, New York.
Olympic Co-ordination Authority (1996). Homebush Bay Ecological Studies 1993-1995. Vol. 1.
CSIRO Publishing, Sydney.
Prichard (2008) “Wetland Plants of the Hunter and NSW Coastal Regions” Port Stephens Council,
Australia.
Port Stephens Council. (1999). Draft Environmental Management Plan. Port Stephens Council, NSW.
Pomeroy, L.R., Darley, W.M., Dunn, E.L.,Gallagher, J.L., Haines, E.B. & Whitney, D.M. (1981).
Primary production. In: The Ecology of a saltmarsh. (eds. L.R. Pomeroy & R.G. Weigert), 39-69.
Springer-Verlag, New York.
PPI Services Pty Ltd (2013) .Site Aspects and Environmental Impacts Study Ramsar et al, “Wetland Management Planning, A Guide for Site Managers.”- DVD
Recher, H. F., Date, E. M and Ford, H. A. (1995). The Biology and Management of Rainforest
Pigeons in NSW. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Sydney.
Sainty (2012) – Estuary Plants…
SHORTLAND WETLANDS – Site Management Plan 2013 – 2023
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SEWPAC “Australian Government Report to NSW Ramsar Managers Network 24 April 2013”
SEWPAC “Australian Ramsar Site Nomination Guidelines Module 4 of the Guidelines for Ramsar
Wetlands- Implimenting the Ramsar Convention in Australia” ISBN: 978-1-921733-66-6
Stevens, L. (2001). Captive breeding of the Freckled Duck at The Wetlands Centre. University of
Newcastle, NSW. Unpublished thesis.
SEWPAC 5 Ramsar Pamphlets
Stricker, J. & Adam, P. (1989). Wetlands of the Sydney region. Final report to the 1988 National
Estate Grants Program project no. 55. Department of Planning, Sydney (unpub. Report).
Stuart, A. (2000). Hunter Region of New South Wales: Annual bird report for 1999. Hunter Bird
Observers Club Inc., New Lambton, NSW.
Sydney Metropolitan CMA (2008) “Buhscare with care. A Field Guide for Bush Regenerators.
Protecting and Conserving Aboriginal Landscapes.” Clickmedia Digital Printers Pty Ltd, Parramatta,
Australia.
Native Plants Field Guide – Les Robinson…
Winning, G. (1989). The Wetlands Centre: site management plan 1990-1994. Unpublished report for
The Wetlands Centre, Shortland NSW.
Winning G (2009) HWCA Planting List
Wisniewski, S. (1999). The Shortland Wetlands remnant rainforest management plan. University of
Newcastle. Unpublished report.
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Maps
Figure 1.1 : Shortland Wetlands showing areas protected by State
Environmental Planning Policy 14.
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Figure 1.2. Vegetation landscape zones. The boundaries between zones are not intended to be precise
delineations but, rather, a general indication of the extent of the zones and some overlap of plantings is not only
acceptable but desirable
Source HWCA Planting List 2009 G. Winning
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Figure 1.3 CMA Quarantined work areas at commencement of this plan. Refer full document for CAP Targets
covered.
Fig 1.4 Biodiversity Project LSP – 947797-335 – June 2012 to June 2017
areas are white shaded areas in map below
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Fig 1.5 Origional Vegetation Communities and Ponds
Fig 1.6 Bird Flight Paths (Open Areas) 2013.
Low Vegetation only to be planted inside red perimiters. Flight paths of raptors and other birds
including Lathams Snipe
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Fig 1.7 Newcastle Council Zoning Map 2013
Dark Green Zoning – Environmental Conservation
Yellow Zoning Low Density Residential.
Fig 1.8 Cadastral and Ramsar Boundaries
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Appendix 2: Criteria for Ramsar listing of Shortland Wetlands
Criterion 1: A wetland should be considered internationally important if it contains a
representative, rare or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland type found within
the appropriate biogeographic region.
Shortland Wetlands is unique in that it has, within its 45ha site, a combination of high conservation
value near-natural wetlands (Melaleuca Swamp Forest, freshwater reed marsh, coastal estuarine
mangrove-lined creek) and high conservation value artificial wetlands (constructed freshwater
lagoons, coastal estuarine Casuarina-lined channel, model farm dam). It is the only complex of this
type found within the Sydney Basin biogeographic region. The Melaleuca Swamp Forest in particular
represents a wetland type that, although once very widespread, is poorly represented in the Sydney
Basin biogeographic region.
Criterion 4: A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports species at a
critical stage in their life cycles, or provides refuge during adverse conditions.
Shortland Wetlands supports a large number of species, some in very large numbers, at a critical
seasonal stage of their breeding cycle and as a refuge during adverse conditions. Twenty-eight bird
species have been recorded breeding at Shortland Wetlands .
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The Great Egret (Ardea alba), Intermediate (Ardea intermedia), Little (Egretta garzetta) and Cattle
Egrets (Ardea ibis) are seasonal migrants to the site from long distance wintering locations in New
Zealand. They arrive in spring for their breeding season and depart on their winter migration after
nesting.
Over 1000 Australian White Ibis (Threskiornis molucca) use the Melaleuca Swamp Forest as a night
roost throughout the year, but numbers increase significantly over autumn and winter as migrants
from inland breeding colonies come to the coast for non-breeding seasonal foraging.
Very few Straw-necked Ibis (Threskiornis spinicollis) are present during summer but huge numbers
migrate to the region during autumn and winter. Up to 7000 of these birds use the Wetlands Centre
Melaleuca Swamp Forest for night roosting. The numbers start to drop during August as they set out
on their return journey inland.
Variable numbers (up to about 200 birds) of Nankeen Night Herons (Nycticorax caledonicus) use the
Swamp Forest for night foraging and for day roosting during the non-breeding season.
White-faced Heron (Egretta novaehollandiae), White-necked Heron (Ardea pacifica), Royal Spoonbill
(Platalea regia) and Yellow-billed Spoonbill (Platalea flavipes), fluctuating in numbers from single
birds up to about 30 or more, use the Swamp Forest as a night roost throughout the year.
The site provides drought refuge for a number of species during critical inland drought episodes,
recognised by a dramatic increase in numbers or sudden appearance coinciding with the onslaught
of inland drought; and a compensatory drop in numbers or disappearance coinciding with breaking
of the drought. These species include Freckled Duck, Stictonetta naevosa (73 were counted in a
survey in 1983, small numbers of one to five birds have appeared at intervals since); Pink-eared
Duck, Malacorhynchus membranaceus (small flocks); Australian Pelican, Pelecanus conspicillatus (87
have been recorded); and Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus (often 100 or more).
The site is also important during dry periods for local resident ducks, herons and other waterbirds,
with the numbers of ducks being as high as 2000 birds.
Appendix 3 Entry in the Directory of Important Wetlands
A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia
Shortland Wetlands Centre - NSW089
Location: Central Coastal Plain at 32 degrees 53' S, 151 degrees 42' E. Located on the eastern edge of
Hexham Swamp in the suburbs of Newcastle.
Area: 45 ha.
Elevation: 0 m ASL.
Other listed wetlands in same aggregation: Not given
Wetland type: A11, A12,
Criteria for inclusion: 3, 6,
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Site description:
Physical features: The annual average rainfall for the area is 1145mm. Mean daily temperatures
range from maximums of 24 degrees C in the summer months to minimums of 8 degrees C in the
winter months (CMA, 1990b). The geology of Shortland Wetlands consists of Quaternary estuarine /
lacustrine sediments including silts and clays (Matthei, 1995).
Hydrological features: Many of the swamps within the Shortland Wetlands Centre are semi-
permanent freshwater ponds. The construction of floodgates on the adjacent Ironbark Creek has
prevented periodic inundation of brackish water from the Hunter River (Murray, 1990). Flooding of
the swamps requires local rainfall, predominantly in the summer months.
Ecological features: Remnant floodplain wetlands on the edge of Hexham Swamp; semi-permanent /
seasonal freshwater ponds and marshes; freshwater swamp forests containing Broad-leaved
Paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia. Other species include Club-rush Bolboschoenus caldwellii,
Common Reed Phragmites australis, Water Couch Paspalum distichum, Water Ribbons Triglochin
procera, and Cumbungi Typha orientalis (Murray, 1990). The freshwater swamp forest is utilised as a
heronry by 2000 breeding pairs of four egret species, and as an evening roost for approximately 4000
Australian White Ibis Threskiornis aethiopica and Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis. Two
waterfowl conservation projects are currently underway at the Shortland Wetlands, re-introduction
of the Magpie Goose and captive breeding of the Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa. Visitor centre
provides environmental education. Magpie Geese have been breeding successfully in the local area
and the Freckled Duck successfully bred for the first time in Spring 1998. Also the site of a
Department of School Education field studies centre.
Significance:
Notable flora: The regionally significant Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus robusta is being re-established
on the site.
Notable fauna: An important breeding area for all four species of egrets. Species which are
considered vulnerable at a state level (Sv) which have been recorded within the Shortland Wetlands
include the Magpie Goose Anseranas semipalmata, Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis, Freckled Duck
Stictonetta naevosa, Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus, and Comb-crested Jacana Irediparra
gallinacea (NPWS, 1998b). Species listed under JAMBA and / or CAMBA which have been recorded in
the area include the Wedge-tailed Shearwater Puffinus pacificus, Great Egret Ardea alba, Cattle
Egret Ardea ibis, Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos, Latham's
Snipe Gallinago hardwickii, and Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis (NPWS, 1998b).
Other Fauna:
Social and Cultural values: Focus for environmental education within the Hunter Region. Used for
research by university and other tertiary students. Research projects carried out on all aspects of
wetland ecology. Site of a Department of Education field studies centre.
Land tenure: On site: Freehold. Surrounding area: Freehold, NPWS Nature Reserve, Crown land.
Current land use: On site: Education, passive recreation & research. Surrounding area: urban area,
beef cattle grazing, and light industrial.
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Disturbance or threat: Minor.
Conservation measures taken: The wetlands are partly listed under SEPP 14 (Coastal Wetlands).
Management Plan currently being updated. Active Site Management Committee. Prioritising and
addressing weed control and introduced predators.
Management authority and jurisdiction: Shortland Wetlands Centre Ltd.
References: Baxter, G.S. (1988); Baxter, G.S. (1992); Central Mapping Authority (1990b); Gilligan, B.
(1984); Gilligan, B. (1988a); Gilligan, B., et al. (1990); Gilligan, B. & Markwell, K. (1990); Jonathon
Falk Planning Consultants Pty Ltd (1985); MacDonald Wagner (1984); McDonald, K. & Winning, G.
(1986); Maddock, M.N. (1986a); Maddock, M.N. (1986b); Maddock, M.N. & Albrecht, G. (1985);
Maddock, M.N. & Baxter, G.S. (1991); Matthei, L.E. (1995); Murray, M.J. (1990); National Parks &
Wildlife Service (1998b); Winning, G. (1989)
Compiler & date: Geoffrey Winning & Michael Murray, Shortland Wetlands Centre, December 1992.
Revised, Tania Laity, NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, & Sharryn Brown, Shortland Wetlands
Centre, 1998.
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Appendix 4 Plant species list
Plant species recorded at HWCA as at 6 February 2013
Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
ACANTHACEAE
Pseuderanthemum variabile Pastel Flower
AGAVACEAE
Cordyline stricta Narrow Leaved Palm Lilly
ALLIACEAE
Nothoscordum inodorum Onion Weed
AMARANTHACEAE
Alternanthera denticulata Lesser Joyweed
# Altemanthera. philoxeroides Alligator Weed
Ameranthus viridis Green Ameranthus
AMARYLLIDACEAE
Narcissus jonquilla Jonquills
ACANTHACEAE
Hypoestis floridunda Native Holly
APIACEAE
Foeniculum vulgare Fennel
Hydrocotyle bonariensis Pennywort
Hydrocotyle laxiflora Stinking Pennywort
APOCYNACEAE
Parsonia straminea Monkey Rope
ARALIACEAE
Polyscias elegans Celery Wood
ARECACEAE
Archontophenix cunninghamiana Banglo Palm
Livistona australis Cabbage Palm
ASCLEPIA
# Araujia hortorum Moth Plant
ASPARAGACEAE
# Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern
ASTERACEAE
# Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed
ASTERZCEAE
Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual Ragweed
Artemisia verlotiorum Mugwort
Aster subulatus Wild Aster
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Bidens pilosa Pitchforks
Cassinia quinquefaria Biddy Bush
# Chrysanthemoides monilifera var. rotundata Bitou Bush
Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle
Conyza albida Tall Fleabane
Cotula coronopifolia Water Buttons
Crepsis capillaris Smooth Hawksbeard
Galinsoga parviflora Potato Weed
Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed
# Senecio linearifolius Fireweed Groundsel
# Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed
Xanthium occidentale Noogoora Burr
AVICENNIACEAE
Avicennia marina Grey Mangrove
BASELLACEAE
# Anredera cordifolia Madeira Vine
BIGONIACEAE
Pandorea pandodana Wonga Wonga Vine
BRASSICACEAE
Capsella bursapastoris Shepherd’s Purse
Lepidium campestre Field Cress
CAESALPINCEAE
Cassia aliphylla Sprawling Cassia
CAPRIFOLIACEAE
# Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle
Senna aliphylla Australian Rainforest Senna
Sambucas australasica Native Elderberry
CASUARINACEAE
Casuarina cunninghamiana She Oak
Casuarina glauca Swamp She Oak
CELASTRACEAE
Cassine australis Red Olive Berry
CHENOPODIACEAE
Atriplex australasica Native Orache
Einadia hastata Scallop
COMMELINACEAE
Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed
# Tradescantia albiflora Wandering Jew
CONVOLVULACEAE
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Dichondra repens Kidney Weed
# Ipomoea indica Blue Morning Glory
CUNONIACEAE
Callicoma serratifolia Black Wattle
CYPERACEAE
Baumea articulata Jointer Twig Rush
Baumea Juncea Bare Twig Rush
Banksia aemula Swamp Banksia
Bolboschoenus caldwellii Clubrush
Carex appressa Sedge
Cyperus eragrotis Umbrella Sedge
Cyperus odoratus Fragrant Sedge
Cyperus papyrus Papyrus
Eleocharis acuta Spike Rush
Gahnia clarkei Tall Saw Sedge
Gahnia siberiana Red Fruit Saw Sedge
Isolepis nodosa Knotted Club Rush
Schoenoplectus validus River Clubrush
Hibbertia scandens Golden Guinea Flower
DAVIDSONIACEAE
Davidsonia pruriens Davidson’s Plum
ELAEOCARPACEAE
Elaeocarpus grandis Blue Quandong
Elaeocarpus obovatus Hard Quandong
Elaeocarpus reticulatus Blue Berry Ash
Sloanea australis Maiden’s Blush
EUPHORBIACEAE
Baloghia inophylla Bush Bloodwood
Breynia oblongifolia Coffee Bush
Euphorbia peplus Petty Spurge
Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree
Omalanthus populifolius Bleeding Heart
# Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant
EUPOMATIACEAE
Eupomatia laurina Native Guava
FABACEAE SALPINIOIDEAE
# Senna pendula Winter Senna
FABACEAE / CABOIDEAE
Dillwynia retorta Egg & Bacon Bush
Glycine microphylla Small Leaf Glycine
Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsaparilla
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Hovea lineaaris Narrow Leaf Hovea
Indigofera australis Australian Indigo
Kennedia rubicunda Dusky Coral Pea
Trifolium dubium Yellow Suckling Clover
Trifolium repens White Clover
Vicia sativa Common Vetch
FABACEAE / FABOIDEAE
# Cytisus scoparius Scotch/ English Broom
Pultenaea echinula Bush Pea
Pultenaea villosa Hairy Bush Pea
FABACEAE / MIMOSOSOLDEAE
# Acacia baileyana Cootamundra Wattle
Acacia elongata Swamp Wattle
Acacia falcata Falcate Wattle
Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle
Acacia parramattensis Parramatta Green Wattle
Acacia sophorae Coastal Wattle
Acacia suaveolens Sweet Scented Wattle
Acacia terminalis Sunshine Wattle
Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses
FLACOURTIACEAE
Scolopia braunii Flint Wood
FUMIARIACEAE
Fumaria bastardii Bastard's Fumitory
GERANIACEAE
Geranium solanderi var. solanderi Native Geranium
GOODENIACEAE
Goodenia ovata Hop Goodenia
HYDROCHARITACEAE
Vallisneria gigantea Giant Ribbon Weed
IRIDACEAE
Romulea rosea var. australis Onion Grass
JUNCACEAE
# Juncus acutus Spiny Rush
Juncus krausii Sea Rush
Juncus usitatus Common Rush
JUNCAGINACEAE
Triglochin microtuberosa Water Ribbon
Triglochin multifructum Water Ribbons
LAMIACEAE
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Plectranthus parviflorus Cockspur Flower
Prostanthera incisa Cut Leaf Mint
Prostanthera prunelloides Prunella Mint Bush
Prostanthera purpurea Mint Bush
Prostanthera rotundifolia Round Leaf Mint Bush
LAURACEAE
# Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel
Cryptocarya hypospodia Northern Laurel
Cryptocarya rigida Forest Maple
Neolistea dealbata Hairy Leaved Bolly Gum
LILACEAE
Dianella caerulea Blue Flax Lilly
Crinum pedunculatum Swamp Lilly
LOMANDRACEAE
Lomandra longifolia Spiny-Headed Mat Rush
MALVACEAE
Brachychiton acerifolius Illawarra Flame Tree
Brachychiton discolor Bottle Tree
Brachychiton populeus Kurrajong
Hibiscus heterophyllus Native Rosella
Hibiscus tiliaceous Cottonwood Hibiscus
Hibiscus trionum Bladder Ketmia
Modiola caroliniana Red Flowering Mallow
Sida rhombifolia Paddy’s Lucerne
MELIACEAE
Dysoxylum fraserianum Rose Mahogany
Synoum glandulosum Scentless Rosewood
Toona ciliata Red Cedar
MENISPERMACEAE
Stephania japonica Snake Vine
MIMOSACEAE
Pararchidendron pruinosum Snow Wood
MORACEAE
Ficus coronata Sandpaper Fig
Ficus crassipes Banana Fig
Ficus fraseri White Sandpaper Fig
Ficus leptoclada Apricot Fig
Ficus pleurocarpa Banana Fig
Ficus racemosa Cluster Fig
Ficus rubiginosa Port Jackson Fig
Maclura cochinchinensis Cockspur Thorn
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
MYOPORACEAE
Myoporum acuminatum Northern Boobialla
MYRSINACEAE
Rapanea howittiana Bush Mutton wood
Rapanea variabilis Mutton Wood
MYRTACEAE
Austromyrtus bidwillii Python Tree
Austrommyrtus dulcis Midgin Berry
Backhousia citriodora Lemon Scented Myrtle
Backhousia myrtifolia Grey Myrtle
Callistemon brachyandrus Prickley Bottlebrush
Callistemon citrinus Crimson Bottlebrush
Callistemon koreelacreek Coreelacreek
Callistemon linearis Narrow Leaved Bottlebrush
Callistemon pachyphyllus Wallum Bottlebrush
Callistemon pinifolius Pine Leaved Bottlebrush
Callistemon rigidus Stiff bottlebrush
Callistemon salignus White Bottlebrush
Callistemon viminalis Weeping Bottlebrush
Eucalyptus deanei Mountain Blue Gum
Eucalyptus ficifolia Red Flowering Gum
Eucalyptus gummifera Red Bloodwood
Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum
Eucalyptus punctata Grey Gum
Eucaylptus robusta Swamp Mahogany
Eucalyptus sieberi Blackash
Leptosporum juniperinum Prickly Tea Tree
Leptosporum laevigatum Coastal Tea Tree
Leptosporum petersonii Lemon Scented Tea Tree
Leptospermum polygalifolium Tantoon
Melaleuca armillaris Braclet Honey Myrtle
Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark
Melaleuca erubescens Pink Honeymyrtle
Melaleuca hypericifolia Red Honey Myryle
Melaleuca linariifolia Snow-in-Summer
Melaleuca nodosa Ball Honeymyrtle
Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad leaved Paperbark
Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly leaved Paperbark
Melaleuce thymifolia Thyme Honey Myrtle
Syncarpia glomulifera Turpentine
Syzygium australe Brush Cherry
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Syzygium crebrinerve Purple Cherry
Syzygium leuhmannii Riberry
Syzygium oleosum Blue Lilly Pilly
Syzygium paniculatum Magenta Lilly Pilly
Syzygium smithii Lilly Pilly
Syzygium spp.
Tristaniopsis laurina Water Gum
Waterhousea floribunda Weeping Lilly Pilly
OLEACEAE
# Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet
Notelaea longifolia Mock Olive
PASSIFLORACEAE
Passiflora edulis Common Passionfruit
Passifolia herbertiana Native Passionfruit
PHILYDRACEAE
Philydrum lanuginosum Frog Mouth
PHYTOLACCACEAE
Phytolacca octandra Inkweed
PITTOSPORACEAE
Hymenosporum flavum Native Frangipani
Pittosporum multiflorum Orange Thorn
Pittosporum phillyraeoides Weeping Pittosporum
Pittosporum revolutum Rough Fruit Pittosporum
Pittosporum rhombifolium White Holly
Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum
Bursaria spinosa Blackthorn
PLANTAGINACEAE
Plantago lanceolata Plantain or Lamb's Tongues
Plantago major Large Plantain
POACEAE
Briza maxima Quaking Grass
Briza minor Shivery Grass
Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass
# Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass
Cynodon dactylon Couch
Dichelachne micrantha Plume Grass
Echinochloa crus-gali Barnyard grass
# Hyparrhenia hirta Coolatai Grass
Isachne globosa Swamp Millet
Lolium temulentum Darnel
Melinis repens Red Natal Grass
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Oplismenus imbecillis Basket Grass
Panicum maximum Guinea Grass
Paspalum, dilatatum Paspalum
Paspalum distichum Water Couch
# Paspalum quadrifarium Tussock Paspalum
# Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Grass
Phragmites australis Native Reed
Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass
Sporobolus virginicus Saltwater Couch
PODOCARDACEAE
Podocarpus elatus Plum Pine
POLYGONACEAE
Muehlenbeckia gracillima Slender Lignum
Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed
P. lapathifolia Pale Knotweed
Polygonum arenastrum Sandwireweed
Rumex crispus Curled Dock
PORTULACEAE
Portulaca oleracea Pigweed
POTAMOGETONACEAE
Potamogeton crispus Curly Pondweed
PROTEACEAE
Banksia integrifolia Coastal Banksia
Grevillea robusta Silky Oak
Grevillea sp.
Hakea laurina Pincussion Hakea
Hakea salicifolia Willow-leaved Hakea
Stenocarpus salignus Scrub Beefwood
Stenocarpus sinuatus Fire-wheel Tree
Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass
RANUNCULACEAE
Clematis glycinoides Headache Vine
Ranunculus inundates River Buttercup
RHAMNACEAE
Alphitonia excelsa Red Ash
Pomaderris lanigera Popcorn Bush
ROSACEAE
# Rubus fruticosus Blackberry
Rubus molucianus Native Raspberry
Rubus parvifolius Native Raspberry
RUBIACEAE
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Morinda Jasminoides Jasmin Morinda
Psycotria loniceroides Hairy Psycotria
RUTACEAE
Acronychia oblongifolia White Aspen
Citrus australasica Finger Lime
Melicope micrococca Hairy Leaved Doughwood
SAPINDACEAE
Alectryon coriaceus Beach Birds Eye
Alectryon subeinereus Wild Quince
# Cardiospermum grandiflorum Balloon Vine
Cupaniopsis anarcardiodes Tuckeroo
Cupaniopsus wadsworthii Duck Foot
Dipliglottis australis Native Tamarind
Dodonaea triquetra Hop Bush
Guioa semiglauca Guioa
Harpullia pendula Tullipwood
SAPOTACEAE
Planchonella australis Black Apple
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Bacopa monnieri Bacopa
SMILACEAE
Eustrephus latifolus Wombat Berry
SOLANACEAE
Datura stramonium Common Thornapple
# Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum
Solanum aviculare Kangaroo Apple
Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco Bush
Solanum nigrum Blackberry Nightshade
STERCULIACEAE
Commersonia fraseri Brush Kurrajong
THYMELAEACEAE
Pimelia linifolia Rice Flower
Wikstroemia indica No common name
TROPAEOLACEAE
Tropaeolum majus Nasturtium
TYPHACEAE
Typha orientalis Bulrush, Cumbungi
ULMACEAE
Trema tomentosa Native Peach
URTICACEAE
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Family Name Botanical Name Common Name
Urtica incisa Stinging Nettle
VERBENACEAE
Callicarpa cana Woolly Malayan
Lantana camara Lantana
Verbena bonariensis Purpletop
VIOLACEAE
Viola hederacea Ivy-Leaved Violet
Class Liliopsida Monocotyledons
VITACEAE
Cayratia clematidea Slender Native Grape
ZINGIBERACEAE
Alpinia caerulea Native Ginger
Alphitonia exeisa Red Ash
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Appendix 5 Shortland Wetlands Flora Restoration
The original composition and extent of the vegetation of Shortland Wetlands is difficult to
determine due largely to the lack of information on the site and partly due to the amount of
reclamation and alteration that had taken place. The dominant vegetation was Swamp Oak,
Casuarina glauca, and Common Reed, Phragmites australis, with the reeds becoming more
dominant in the wetter ‘swamp’ communities to the west. These communities were almost totally
cleared. The swamp communities on the eastern edge were also cleared and reclaimed, although
the extent of the filling is unknown. Three causeways were constructed across the swamps
(Winning 1989).
There were significant changes in the upland vegetation with most of the trees being removed and
the natural understory being replaced by pasture species in most areas. Remnant native species
suggest that the original upland vegetation comprised an open forest dominated by Spotted Gum,
Corymbia maculata, and Grey Ironbark, Eucalyptus siderophloia, with an understory of various
sclerophyllus shrubs (Winning 1989).
In order to obtain baseline data of the original vegetation for future planting purposes, a flora
inventory of the whole Wetlands Centre site was undertaken. The entire site was mapped and
divided into zones. Native plant species that were not endemic to the Hunter region were planted
around the Visitors’ Centre building, while local native species representative of the existing plant
community were planted around the human-altered ponds and other areas including other buildings.
Prior to 1988, 2,290 trees were planted by Greening Australia (Hunter Valley). Since 1988 all
species, including the number of plants, the locality that was planted, and the person/s who
planted have been recorded. The total number of trees planted to date is 33,000. Members of the
Australian Plant Society and Wetlands Centre volunteers and supporters have undertaken most of
the planting. The Jesmond Lions Club, Newcastle North and Newcastle Rotary Clubs, and local
Scout groups have also provided assistance.
A grant from the Steel Industries Assistance Program facilitated the planting of vegetation from the
Visitors Centre to Ironbark Creek. The planting of species such as Casuarina glauca, Melaleuca
stypheloides, M. quinquenervia, M. nodosa, M. linearfolia, Crinum pedunculatum, Ficus coronata,
Elaeocarpus obovatus, Callistemon salignus stabilised the clay banks of the canoe trail and provide
a more aesthetically pleasing buffer of vegetation.
In other areas, Eucalyptus tereticornis and E. robusta were extensively planted as a means of
attracting Koalas to the site. Supplementing these Eucalypts was the planting of 3,000 trees to
form a wildlife corridor from the Melaleuca Swamp through to Ironbark Creek. Plants from genera
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such as Eucalyptus spp., Acacia spp., Leptospermum spp., Ficus spp., Syncarpia spp., Alphitonia
spp., have all been established and have shown substantial growth in these areas.
Prior to the opening of The Wetlands Centre in 1985, a remnant rainforest that was in poor
condition, existed on the western edge of the site. It had once been part of a much larger
rainforest community that grew on the outer edges of Hexham Swamp. The rainforest suffered
from clearing for agriculture and urban development including invasion by weed species such as
Lantana camara. Recently the core of the remnant has had intensive assistant regeneration and
planting of native rainforest species around the edges, increasing the size of the remnant to
approximately 1ha. Native rainforest species from northern NSW and QLD were planted as a means
of increasing the knowledge of rainforest species within the region. Rehabilitation of the site has
been slow, mainly due to resources available and the problem with weeds (Wisniewski 1999). Since
1991, rehabilitation has dramatically changed the poor resilient patch of rainforest to a robust
ecosystem.
Chronology of the early revegetation and restoration of Shortland Wetlands
1985 - First Annual Meeting of the Shortland Wetlands Centre - registered in July as Shortland
Wetlands Centre Ltd.
- Landscape Committee established - 1997 changed to Site Management Committee.
- Decision made to only plant Australian Natives on site and to attempt in the long term to
remove all exotics.
1986 - Survey made of all plants on site. Society for Growing Australian Plants (now Australian
Plants Society) - Newcastle branch - involved in making a list of suitable local plants for use on site.
- March - planting begun by Greening Australia Hunter Valley over 6 months.
1988 - Planting begins by Wetlands Volunteers, SGAP and local service clubs.
- Decision to broadly divide the 45 hectares into 3 broad zones. Around the Visitors Centre
plants from anywhere in Australia would be planted - for aesthetics, bird attraction and to
demonstrate what will grow in Newcastle.
- It was decided to concentrate on Lower Hunter Plants around the manmade environment
- In the wild - use only local species. The exception is the rainforest near the outdoors
classroom where species from the east coast of Australia have been planted to act as an arboretum
of rainforest for demonstration purposes.
- The total site has been further subdivided into 23 locations for entering plantings on data
base.
Data
- From 1988 all plantings have been entered on a database. This includes area, date of planting,
species and number of each species and who planted these.
Special areas for consideration are the following:
- Entry avenue of Eucalyptus microcorrys and Casuarina cunninghamiana.
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- Silt traps beautification for demonstration purposes.
- Extension of Melaleuca Swamp forest. This was made because of fear that the Egrets were
destroying the original trees and would in future need a fresh area for nesting - 3,500 Melaleuca
quinquenervia.
- Wildlife corridor from the Melaleuca Swamp to Ironbark Creek - 3000 plants.
- Casuarina glauca forest - with track through the forest to experience the sound and feel of
the Casuarina areas in Australia - 1500 plants.
- Melaleuca nodosa area near Freckled Duck enclosure with elevated board walk to
experience walking through this type of forest.
- Wallum area - wetland heath - between Brambles Pond and Triglochin Swamp. Species
here small Callistemons etc.
- Canoe trail artificially excavated from canoe shed to drain joining Ironbark Creek
landscaped using only Ironbark Creek plants. This has been very successful and the trail looks like a
natural creek.
- Project for 2002 is the extension of the rainforest along the west side of the site. This will
be only local rainforest species.
- An avenue of figs has been planted along the east boundary road to encourage bats and
fruit eating birds.
- Areas around the artificial ponds have been left clear of trees in areas considered as flight
paths for the larger birds - Swans and Pelicans.
- Lions Sensory Trail. Developed by Jesmond Lions Club north of the Visitors Centre to
experience the feel, sound and perfume of Australian plants.
- Board walk across the Ironbark Marsh gives excellent views over the Phragmites Marsh.
Bush Regeneration An enormous amount of work has been undertaken over the 26 years. Main
work has involved removal of Pampas Grass, Lantana, Cestrum, Honeysuckle, Blackberry, Moth Vine,
Madeira Vine, Ochna and Castor Oil. There are an inordinate number of other exotic grasses and
herbs. Whether these will ever be removed in total is questionable.
Plant sources Initially Plants were obtained early on by donation and purchase with APS funds.
Now plants are propagated on site for use at Shortland Wetlands and for the APS to sell at shows
and to the general public. Thursday morning’s plants are on sale to the general public between 9
and 12am.
Accelerated Planting since 2008
In 2008 Boyd Carney (Then Site Manager) commenced Hunter Wetland Centres own nursery in
response to the Centres success in gaining grant funds for the purpose. Of the 198,469 plants
planted since inception 72% have been planted since 2008. The list below discloses the remarkable
effect the nursery has had on our planting regime. Increases in Site Staff numbers up to 3
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permanants plus casuals and trainees over the later years have supported volunteers in large scale
plantings (where over 5000 plants are mass planted in areas) has helped accelerate the number of
plants and area being planted each year.
Currently HWCA is working on a federal government Biodiversity Fund Grant which targets the
planting of 120,000 local rainforest species between 2012 and 2017. There are also a number of
smaller projects in train funded by HCRCMA of private philanthropic bodies. The NSW Environmental
Trust is also subsidising the Site Managers wage.
Annual Planting Record
Greening Australia Hunter Valley 1986 2290
Wetlands Volunteers 1988-90 4662
Wetlands Volunteers 1991 2172
Wetlands Volunteers 1992 2145
Wetlands Volunteers 1993 3350
Wetlands Volunteers 1994 2201
Wetlands Volunteers 1995 5506
Wetlands Volunteers 1996 1346
Wetlands Volunteers 1997 2397
Wetlands Volunteers 1998 2394
Wetlands Volunteers 1999 1753
Wetlands Volunteers 2000 1609
Wetlands Volunteers 2001 1857
Wetlands Volunteers 2002 3508
Wetlands Volunteers 2003 3391
Wetlands Volunteers 2004 1965
Wetlands Volunteers 2005 4020
Wetlands Volunteers 2006 3089
Wetlands Volunteers 2007 5571
Wetlands Volunteers 2008 20807
Wetlands Volunteers 2009 22077
Wetlands Volunteers 2010 42414
Wetland Volunteers 2011 24934
Wetland Volunteers 2012 33011
------
198469
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Appendix 6 Fauna Species Lists
Appendix 6.1 Bird Species
Code Description Definition
I Unprotected Fauna and flora listed in Schedule 11 of the National Parks Wildlife Act 1974
(introduced species).
V Vulnerable Fauna and flora species that are likely to become endangered unless the
circumstances & factors threatening their survival or evolutionary
development cease to operate (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation
Act 1995).
E Endangered Listed as Endangered under NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995)
Species listed under China and Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, Japan
Australia Migratory Bird Agreement or BONN international treaties.
Table 6.1. All bird species recorded at Shortland Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name Status Treaties
ORDER: GALLIFORMES
Family: Phasianidae Old World Quail and Pheasant
Coturnix ypsilophora Brown Quail
Excalfactoria chinensis King Quail
ORDER: ANSERIFORMES WATERFOWL
Family: Anseranatidae Magpie Goose
Anseranas semipalmata Magpie Goose V
Family: Anatidae Ducks, Geese and Swans
Dendrocygna eytoni Plumed Whistling-Duck
Dendrocygna arcuata Wandering Whistling-Duck
Biziura lobata Musk Duck
Stictonetta naevosa Freckled Duck V
Cygnus atratus Black Swan
Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck
Malacorhynchus membranaceus Pink-eared Duck
Anas rhynchotis Australasian Shoveler
Anas gracilis Grey Teal
Anas castanea Chestnut Teal
Anas platyrhynchos Northern Mallard
Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck
Aythya australis Hardhead
Oxyura australis Blue-billed Duck V
ORDER: PODICIPEDIFORMES GREBES
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Family: Podicipedidae Grebes
Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Australasian Grebe
Poliocephalus poliocephalus Hoary-headed Grebe
ORDER: COLUMBIFORMES PIGEONS AND DOVES
Family: Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
Columba livia Rock DoveI
I
Columba leucomela White-headed Pigeon
Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Dove
I
Macropygia amboinensis Brown Cuckoo-Dove
Chalcophaps indica Emerald Dove
Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon
Geopelia humeralis Bar-shouldered Dove
Lopholaimus antarcticus Topknot Pigeon
ORDER: CAPRIMULGIFORMES NIGHTJARS AND RELATIVES
Family: Podargidae Frogmouths
Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth
ORDER: APODIFORMES SWIFTS
Family: Apodidae Swifts
Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail
Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift
ORDER :
PHALACROCORACIFORMES
Family: Anhingidae Darters
Anhinga novaehollandiae Australasian Darter
Family: Phalacrocoracidae Cormorants
Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant
Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant
Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant
ORDER: CICONIIFORMES HERONS, STORKS , IBIS
Family: Pelecanidae Pelicans
Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican
Family: Ciconiidae Storks
Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Black-necked Stork E
Family: Ardeidae Bitterns, Herons and Egrets
Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern V
Ixobrychus dubius Australian Little Bittern
Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern V
Ardea pacifica White-necked Heron
Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret
Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret
Ardea ibis Cattle Egret
Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron
Egretta garzetta Little Egret
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Nycticorax caledonicus Nankeen Night Heron
Family: Threskiornithidae Ibis and Spoonbills
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis
Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis
Threskiornis spinicollis Straw-necked Ibis
Platalea regia Royal Spoonbill
Platalea flavipes Yellow-billed Spoonbill
ORDER: ACCIPITRIFORMES
Family: Accipitridae Hawks, Eagles and Kites
Pandion cristatus Eastern Osprey V
Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite
Aviceda subcristata Pacific Baza
Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle
Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite
Haliastur indus Brahminy Kite
Milvus migrans Black Kite
Accipiter fasciatus Brown Goshawk
Accipiter cirrocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk
Accipiter novaehollandiae Grey Goshawk
Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier V
Circus approximans Swamp Harrier
Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle
Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle V
ORDER: FALCONIFORMES
Family: Falconidae Falcons
Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel
Falco berigora Brown Falcon
Falco longipennis Australian Hobby
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon
ORDER: GRUIFORMES RAILS, CRANES AND BUSTARDS
Family: Rallidae Rails, Crakes and Gallinules
Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Swamp-hen
Lewinia pectoralis Lewin’s Rail
Gallirallus philippensis Buff-banded Rail
Porzana pusilla Baillon's Crake
Porzana fluminea Australian Spotted Crake
Porzana tabuensis Spotless Crake
Tribonyx ventralis Black-tailed Native-hen
Gallinula tenebrosa Dusky Moorhen
Fulica atra Eurasian Coot
ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES
Family: Recurvirostridae Stilts and Avocets
Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt
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Recurvirostra novaehollandiae Red-necked Avocet
Family: Charadriidae Plovers and Lapwings
Elseyornis melanops Black-fronted Dotterel
Erythrogonys cinctus Red-kneed Dotterel
Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing
Family: Jacanidae Jacanas
Irediparra gallinacea Comb-crested Jacana V
Family: Scolopacidae Sandpipers and Allies
Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe
Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank
Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper
Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper
Calidris ruficollis Red-necked Stint
Calidris acuminata Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper E
Family Turnicidae Button-quails
Turnix Varius Painted Button-quail
Family: Laridae Gulls and Terns
Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern
Chlidonias hybrida Whiskered Tern
Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Black Tern
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae Silver Gull
ORDER: PSITTACIFORMES COCKATOOS, PARROTS AND LORIKEETS
Family: Cacatuidae Cockatoos
Calyptorhynchus funereus Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo
Eolophus roseicapillus Galah
Cacatua tenuirostris Long-billed Corella
Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella
Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Nymphicus hollandicus Cockatiel
Family: Psittacidae Parrots and Lorikeets
Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet
Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus Scaly-breasted Lorikeet
Glossopsitta concinna Musk Lorikeet
Glossopsitta pusilla Little Lorikeet V
Alisterus scapularis Australian King-Parrot
Platycercus eximius Eastern Rosella
Platycercus adscitus Pale-headed Rosella
Psephotus haematonotus Red-rumped Parrot
Neophema pulchella Turquoise Parrot V
ORDER: CUCULIFORMES CUCKOOS AND COUCALS
Family: Cuculidae Cuckoos
Centropus phasianinus Pheasant Coucal
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Eudynamys orientalis Eastern Koel
Scythrops novaehollandiae Channel-billed Cuckoo
Chalcites basalis Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo
Chalcites lucidus Shining Bronze-Cuckoo
Cacomantis pallidus Pallid Cuckoo
Cacomantis flabelliformis Fan-tailed Cuckoo
Cacomantis variolosus Brush Cuckoo
Cuculus optatus Oriental Cuckoo
ORDER: STRIGIFORMES OWLS
Family: Strigidae Typical (Hawk) Owl
Ninox novaeseelandiae Southern Boobook
Family: Tytonidae Barn Owls
Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl V
Tyto javanica Eastern Barn Owl
ORDER: CORACIIFORMES KINGFISHERS, ROLLERS AND BEE-EATERS
Family: Alcedinidae Water Kingfishers
Ceyx azureus Azure Kingfisher
Family: Halcyonidae Tree Kingfishers
Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra
Todiramphus macleayii Forest Kingfisher
Todiramphus sanctus Sacred Kingfisher
Family: Meropidae Bee-eaters
Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater
Family: Coraciidae Rollers
Eurystomus orientalis Dollarbird
ORDER: PASSERIFORMES SONGBIRDS
Family Ptilonorhynchidae Bowerbirds
Ptilonorhynchus violaceus Satin Bowerbird
Family: Maluridae Fairy-wrens
Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren
Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren
Stipiturus malachurus Southern Emu-wren
Family Acanthizidae Gerygones, Scrubwrens, Thornbills
Sericornis frontalis White-browed Scrubwren
Gerygone mouki Brown Gerygone
Gerygone levigaster Mangrove Gerygone
Gerygone albogularis White-throated Gerygone
Acanthiza lineata Striated Thornbill
Acanthiza nana Yellow Thornbill
Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill
Acanthiza reguloides Buff-rumped Thornbill
Acanthiza pusilla Brown Thornbill
Family: Pardalotidae Pardalotes
Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote
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Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote
Family: Meliphagidae Honeyeaters
Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris Eastern Spinebill
Meliphaga lewinii Lewin's Honeyeater
Lichenostomus chrysops Yellow-faced Honeyeater
Lichenostomus penicillatus White-plumed Honeyeater
Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner
Anthochaera chrysoptera Little Wattlebird
Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird
Myzomela sanguinolenta Scarlet Honeyeater
Lichmera indistincta Brown Honeyeater
Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater
Phylidonyris niger White-cheeked Honeyeater
Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater
Melithreptus lunatus White-naped Honeyeater
Entomyzon cyanotis Blue-faced Honeyeater
Philemon corniculatus Noisy Friarbird
Philemon citreogularis Little Friarbird
Plectorhyncha lanceolata Striped Honeyeater
Family: Psophodidae Whipbirds and Quail-thrushes
Psophodes olivaceus Eastern Whipbird
Family: Campephagidae Cuckoo-shrikes and Trillers
Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike
Coracina tenuirostris Cicadabird
Lalage sueurii White-winged Triller
Family: Pachycephalidae Whistlers and Shrike-thrushes
Falcunculus frontatus Crested Shrike-tit
Pachycephala pectoralis Golden Whistler
Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler
Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush
Family: Oriolidae Orioles
Sphecotheres vieilloti Australasian Figbird
Oriolus sagittatus Olive-backed Oriole
Family: Artamidae Woodswallows, Magpies, Butcherbirds and
Currawongs
Artamus leucorynchus White-breasted Woodswallow
Artamus superciliosis White-browed Woodswallow
Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird
Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird
Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie
Strepera graculina Pied Currawong
Family Dicruridae
Dicrurus bracteatus SpangledDrongo
Family Rhipiduridae Fantails
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Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail
Rhipidura fuliginosa Grey Fantail
Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail
Family: Corvidae Ravens and Crows
Corvus coronoides Australian Raven
Corvus orru Torresian Crow
Family Monarchidae Monarch Flycatchers
Myiagra rubecula Leaden Flycatcher
Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher
Myiagra inquieta Restless Flycatcher
Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch
Symposiarchus trivirgatus Spectacled Monarch
Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark
Family: Petroicidae Australasian Robins
Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin
Petroica rosea Rose Robin
Eopsaltria australis Eastern Yellow Robin
Family Cisticolidae Cisticolas
Cisticola exilis Golden-headed Cisticola
Family: Acrocephalidae Marsh Warblers
Acrocephalus australis Australian Reed-Warbler
Family Megaluridae Megalarid Warblers
Megalurus timoriensis Tawny Grassbird
Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird
Cincloramphus mathewsi Rufous Songlark
Family: Timaliidae White-eyes
Zosterops lateralis Silvereye
Family: Hirundinidae Swallows and Martins
Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow
Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow
Petrochelidon ariel Fairy Martin
Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin
Family: Turdidae
Zoothera lunulata Bassian Thrush
Turdus merula Common BlackbirdI
I
Family: Sturnidae Starlings
Sturnus vulgaris Common StarlingI
I
Sturnis tristis Common MynaI
I
Family: Nectariniidae Flowerpeckers
Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoebird
Family Estrildidae Grass Finches
Taeniopygia guttata Zebra Finch
Taeniopygia bichenovii Double-barred Finch
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Neochmia modesta Plum-headed Finch
Neochmia temporalis Red-browed Finch
Lonchura castaneothorax Chestnut-breasted Mannikin
Family: Passeridae House Sparrows
House Sparrow Passer domesticus I
Family: Motacillidae Pipits and Wagtails
Anthus novaeseelandiae Australasian Pipit
Motacilla tschutschensis Eastern Yellow Wagtail
Family: Fringillidae Finches
Carduelis carduelis European GoldfinchI
I
APPENDIX 6.2 BUTTERFLIES OF THE WETLANDS CENTRE
PAPILIONIDAE
Graphium macleayanum Macleay’s Swallowtail
Graphium sarpedon Blue Triangle
Papilio aegeus Orchard Butterfly
Papilio demoleus Chequered Swallowtail
?Cressida cressida Big Greasy
PIERIDAE COLIADINAE
Eurema smilax Small Grass Yellow
PIERINAE Delias aganippe Wood White
Delias nigrina Common Jezabel
Anaphaeis java Caper White
Appias paulina Common Albatross
Pieris rapae Cabbage White
NYMPHALIDAE DANAINAE
Danaus plexippus Wanderer
Danaus hamatus Blue Tiger
Euploea core Common Crow, Oleander Butterfly
SATYRINAE NYMPHALINAE
Hypolimnas bolina Common Eggfly
Hypolimnas misippus Danaid Eggfly
Hypolimnas alimena lamina Blue-banded Eggfly
Vanessa kershawi Australian Painted Lady
Vanessa itea Australian Admiral
Junonia villida Meadow Argus
LYCAENIDAE LYCAENINAE
Danis hymetus Small-Green-banded Blue
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APPENDIX 6.3 MOTHS OF THE WETLANDS CENTRE
Family Scientific name
PALAEPHATIDAE Azaleodes fuscipes
ETHMIIDAE Ethmia clytodoxa
PYRALIDAE Lygropia quarternalis
Sceliodes cordallis
GEOMETRIDAE Agathia prasimaspis
Oenochroma vinaria
ANTHELIDAE Anthela varia
LYMANTRIIDAE Utetheisa pulchelloides
NOCTUIDAE
Grammodes justa
Appendix 6.4 FROGS OF THE WETLANDS CENTRE
Compiled by Wilma Barden from data recorded by Greg Little (1998-99) and Macdonald & Winning,
1986)
Scientific Name Common Name Location/s
Litoria dentata Bleating Tree Frog Melaleuca Swamp
Litoria fallax Dwarf Green Tree Frog all locations
Litoria peroni Peron’s Tree Frog Melaleuca Swamp
Litoria tyleri Tyler’s Tree Frog Cat-tail Swamp/Reed
Marsh
Litoria caerulea Green Tree Frog -
Lymnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted ( Grass) Marsh
Frog
Back Swamp
Crinia signifera Common Eastern Froglet walking tracks
Limnodynastes peroni Striped Marsh Frog Frog Pond/walking
tracks
Appendix 6.5 Terrestrial Mammal species recorded at Shortland Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name
Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot
(native)
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Hydromys chrysogaster Water Rat (native)
Pteropus policephalus Grey-Headed Flying Fox
Mus musculus House Mouse
Rattus rattus Black Rat
Lepus capensis Brown Hare
Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit
Vulpes vulpes Red Fox
Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum
Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail Possum
Myotis macropus Fishing Bat (vulnerable NSW)
Appendix 6.6 Repti les recorded at Shortland Wetlands in 2010
Scientific Name Common Name
Cheladina longicollis Long-necked Turtle
Ctenotus robustus Striped Skink
Lampropholis delicata Grass Skink
L. mustelinum Weasel Skink
Saiphos equalis Three-toed Skink
Sphenomorphus quoyii Eastern Water Skink
Tiliqua casuarinae She-oak Skink
Hemiaspis signata Swamp Snake
Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake
Physignathus leseurii Astern Water Dragon
Tiliqua scincoides Common Blue-tongue Lizard
Dendrelaphis punctulata Green Tree Snake
Appendix 6.7 Bats of HWCA and Surrounding Wetlands
Scientific Name
Megabats
Common Name
Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying Fox
Microbats
Chalinolobus gouldii
Gould’s Wattled Bat
Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled
Miniopterus australis Little Bentwing-bat
Miniopterus schreibersii
oceanensis
Eastern Bentwing-bat
Vespadelus vulturnus Little Forest Bat
Nyctophilus geoffroyi * Lesser Long-eared Bat
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Nyctophilus gouldii *
Gould’s Long-eared Bat
Myotis Myotis adversus † Large-footed Myotis
Scoteanax rueppellii
Greater Broad-nosed Bat
Mormopterus norfolkensis East-coast Free-tail Bat
Mormopterus loriae ?
Little Northern Free-tail Bat
Nyctinomus australis White-striped Freetail-bat
Appendix 6.8 Fish species recorded at Shortland Wetlands
Scientific Name Common Name
Gambusia holbrooki Mosquito Fish
Gobiomorphus coxii Cox’s Gudgeon
Hypseleotris galii Firetail Gudgeon
Philypnodon grandiceps Flathead Gudgeon
Philypnodon sp. none
Anguilla australis Short-finned Eel
Cyprinus Carpio Koi Carp -2010
Mugil cephalus Sea Mullet-2010
Appendix 6.9 Macro-Invertibrates
Class: Insecta
Order Family Name Common Name
Ephemeroptera Leptophlebiidae Mayfly
Odonata
Suborder Zygoptera
Coenagriinidae Damselfly
Megapodagrionidae Damselfly
Suborder: Anisoptera Corduliidae Dragonfly
Libellulidae Dragonfly
Hemiptera Gerridae Water strider
Notonectidae Backswimmer
Corixidae Water boatman
Nepidae Water scorpion
Belostomatidae Water scorpion
Megaloptera Sialidae Alderflies
Corydalidae Dobsonflies
Coleoptera Dystiscidae Diving Beetle
Hydrophilidae Diving beetle
Diptera Stratiomyidae Soldier Fly
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Tipulidae Crane fly
Chronomidae Midge fly
Trichoptera Odontoceridae Caddisfly
Leptoceridae Caddisfly
Calamoceratidae Caddisfly
Lepidoptera Moth
Others:
Phyllum Common Name
Chordata Tadpoles
Gudgeon
Mosquito Fish
Mollusca Ramshorn snail
Pond snail
Arthropoda Cyclops
Ostracoda Seed shrimp
Cladocera Water fleas
Arachnid Water mite
Species:
Megadolomedes australianus
Water Spider
Decapoda Freshwater shrimp
Tricladida Planarian
Phyllum: Annelida Freshwater worms
Leech
Appendix 7 Visitor Profiles
Visitor data on the Hunter Wetlands Centre is collected and recorded through reception. A
thorough visitor survey has been flagged for 2013/ 2014 that will record visitor’s experiences and
motivations as well as visitor locations, referrals and numbers. Extensive visitor surveys were
carried out by University of Newcastle students to analyse various aspects of visitor experience
(Archer 1998 and Noakes et al 2001).
The Hunter Wetlands Centre attracts approximately 100,000 visitors each year. Visitors generally
fall into two key areas. Those who visit the centre with a focus on spending time with family,
outdoor activities and personal fitness who take the opportunity to do Segway tours, canoeing,
walking or bbqs. The family visitors are more likely to take advantage of various event days on site
with much higher numbers than our other visitor groups. Our other primary visitors come because of
the environmental aspects and value opportunities to experience and learn about nature close at
hand.
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The Department of Education and Training’s Environmental Education Centre (WEEC) leases ‘The
Wetlands’, a purpose built education centre on site. Annual Student visitation currently sits
between 6 000 – 8 000 and students range from yr 1 – yr12. The WEEC depends on resources
provided and maintained by the Hunter Wetlands Centre including walking paths, interpretive
displays and signage, canoes, boardwalks, bird hides, the egret observation tower and live animal
displays in the visitors centre.
Visitors to the centre include recreational visitors, volunteers and corporate and community groups.
While there has been a marginal increase in these groups over the past 5 years, there is a
recognised need to continue to attract this demographic to ensure the Hunter Wetlands Centre
continues to attract enough visitors to the site. An adventure ropes course will be built on the site
to attract recreational visitors. Conference and meeting rooms have been renovated and created to
attract corporate groups.
Visitor Locations
Local 65%
Sydney 9%
Other State 4%
Central Coast 14%
Overseas 3%
Upper Hunter
5%
Mid North Coast
0%
Location of Visitors
Local
Sydney
Other State
Central Coast
Overseas
Upper Hunter
Mid North Coast
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Appendix 8 Wetland Values
Appreciating and understanding wetlands and their value is fundamental to our well being.
Wetlands are among the most important ecosystems on Earth and play a vital role in maintaining
biological diversity (Mitch and Gosselink 1986; Environment Australia 2001). Wetlands are often
referred to as the ‘kidneys of the
landscape’ for the functions they
perform in hydrologic and chemical
cycles and as downstream receivers of
wastes from both natural and human
sources (Mitch and Gosselink 1986).
They perform vital functions such as
water purification, nutrient retention,
maintenance of water tables, storm
protection, flood mitigation, shoreline
stabilisation, erosion control, and
groundwater recharge (Environment Australia 2001). Freshwater wetlands and their associated
vegetation communities have long been recognised as important to the health and productivity of
estuaries (e.g. Odum 1961, 1980; Montague et al. 1981; Pomeroy et al. 1981).
Unfortunately, wetlands are amongst the most threatened ecosystems worldwide due largely to
destructive practices such as draining, infilling, pollution, and overexploitation of their resources
(Environment Australia 2001). Over 80% of saltmarsh in the Sydney Basin biogeographic region,
including the Lower Hunter Estuary, has been lost since European settlement (Stricker and Adam
Returned
26%
Word of mouth
13%
Members
15%
Banner/front sign
7%
Brochure
10%
Promotion
5%
Media
10%
Schools
1%
VIC
5%
Website
8%
Visitor Referrals
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1989). In 1985, there was only an estimated 57km2 of saltmarsh in New South Wales, giving the
remaining remnants a high conservation value (Clarke 1993). These communities are an important
‘stepping stone’ to the remaining coastal vegetation and they form an integral part of the coastal
corridor of New South Wales (OCA 1996).
Appendix 9
Australian Ramsar Management Principles
The Commonwealth Government’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 outlines the
requirements for the management of Ramsar wetlands. Management documents need to reflect the
Australian obligations under the Convention on Wetlands and satisfy the Australian Ramsar
Management Principles.
Table X outlines the requirements under the EPBC Act and gives an indication of management
responses for Shortland Wetlands.
Management requirements Response
Describe the ecological character. See Site Management Plan Natural Values –
Ecological Character (page 14) and Ramsar
Information Sheet - Section 16 – Ecological
Features
State the characteristics that make the wetland
a Wetland of International Importance under the
Ramsar Convention.
See Site Management Plan Appendix 2 – Criteria
for Ramsar Listing of Shortland Wetlands (page
63) and Ramsar Information Sheet - Section 12:
Justification of the Criteria.
State what must be done to maintain its
ecological character.
See Site Management Plan – Managing the Site:
Management Actions for Natural Values (pages
36) and Ramsar Information Sheet - Section 24:
Conservation Measures proposed but not yet
undertaken.
Promote its conservation and sustainable use for
the benefit of humanity in a way that is
compatible with maintenance of the natural
properties of the ecosystem.
See Site Management Plan - Managing the Site:
Management Actions: Management Actions for
Social Values (pages 49) and Ramsar Information
Sheet – Section 23: Conservation measures
taken, Section 24: Current scientific research
and facilities, and Section 26: Current
Conservation Education.
State mechanisms to deal with the impacts of See Site Management Plan – Managing the Site:
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actions that individually or cumulatively
endanger its ecological character, including risks
arising from physical loss, modification or
encroachment on the wetland; loss of
biodiversity; pollution and nutrient input;
changes of water regime; utilisation of resources
or introduction of invasive species.
Key Risks (pages 33).
The planning table (pages 31-52) also outlines
threats to flora, fauna and hydrological values
and includes planning actions to monitor and
manage pollution, nutrient levels, invasive
species, water levels and the impact of visitors
on the site.
The impact of potential development near the
site is covered by the EPBC Act 1999 and may in
same cases require an Environmental Impact
Assessment under State legislation.
State whether the wetland needs restoration or
rehabilitation.
Shortland Wetlands contains areas where there
has been extensive rehabilitation and
restoration. It also contains areas where
rehabilitation was not necessary. Shortland
Wetlands will continue to be restored as
described in the Site Management Plan.
If restoration or rehabilitation is needed –
explain how management plans provide for this.
See Site Management Plan – About The Wetlands
Centre: History and The Wetlands Centre Today
(pages 8-9) which details the history of the
restoration of Shortland Wetlands. Appendix 5
describes the Shortland Wetlands Flora
Restoration (page 61).
The management plan for ongoing restoration is
described in the Table – Management Actions for
Natural Values specifically Management Actions
for Flora, Fauna and Hydrological Values (pages
36-49).
Provide for continuing monitoring and reporting
on the state of ecological character.
Many of the Site Management Plan strategies
involve monitoring, reporting and analysing
scientific data on a range of ecological
parameters. Historically this data has been
collected and stored by volunteers. To facilitate
the implementation of the Site Management Plan
an integrated data base and collection system
will be put in place. Partnerships already in
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place with special interest groups that use the
site and with the University of Newcastle will be
fostered to encourage volunteer participation in
the monitoring program. The Wetland Centre
will seek funding to engage staff in developing
adequate monitoring to meet management
requirements.
Be based on an integrated catchment
management approach.
See Ramsar Information Sheet 23. Conservation
Measures taken.
A catchment management approach has been
used from the start in the restoration of the
wetlands and the development of the site as a
wetland centre, taking into account the
restoration of habitat and ecosystem values,
public access infrastructure, the needs of use
groups and land-uses in surrounding areas. In on-
going management of the site staff and
volunteers have always sought a balance
between the impacts of visitors and conservation
management for ecosystem values.
Include adequate processes for public
consultation on the elements of the plan.
The development of the Site Management Plan
has included
- a stakeholders workshops in 2011 and
2012 to gain early input to values and
management strategies
- production of draft
- a staff/volunteer review
- a technical review
- editing to accommodate comments
received through the technical review
- Submission of draft to HRCMA, SEWPAC
and NPWS
- a Site Committee review
- an invitation to the community to view
and comment on the Site Management
Plan via HWCA WEB Site.
- final edit involving key staff.
Following the adoption of the Site Management
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Plan the following process will be implemented:
- facilitate an annual workshop with staff
and volunteers to identify actions for the
coming year that implement Site
Management Plan
- develop grant specific action plans based
on SMP principals each year
- present the Grant Action Plans to Site
management Committee for Review
- review the Grant Action Plans and
progress to each bi monthly Site
management Meeting.
- Forward Site Management Committee
reports to the HWCA Board
- report on actions that implement Site
Management Plan strategies and
objectives to the HWCA Board on an
annual basis and report on outcomes to
the Annual General Meeting of Members
Be reviewed at intervals of not more than 7
years.
The Shortland Wetlands Site Management Plan
will be comprehensively reviewed on an annual
basis. A full report will be provided at the
Annual General Meeting of The Wetland Centre.
At the end of seven years, there will be a review
process that initiates preparation of the next
Site Management Plan.