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

mailto:[email protected]


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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);

http://www.environment.gov.au/water/publications/environmental/wetlands/roles-responsibilities-factsheet.html#footnote1


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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.

http://www.hcr.cma.nsw.gov.au/default.asp?section_id=49


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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:


15

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.


16

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


18

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


21

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.


22

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


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


24

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


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


25

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)


26

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


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.


27

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


29

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


30

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).


32

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


34

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


35

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


36

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


38

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


43

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


44

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


45

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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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.


48


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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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


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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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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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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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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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


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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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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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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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.


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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.

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APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Maps

Figure 1.1 : Shortland Wetlands showing areas protected by State

Environmental Planning Policy 14.


80

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


81

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


82

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


84

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 .


85

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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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


90


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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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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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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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


94


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


95


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


96


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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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


99

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.


100

- 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




















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


106

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


107

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


108

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


109

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


110

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


Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot

(native)


111

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


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


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


115

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


116

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.

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