bushland rehabilitation plans - north sydney council...4.0 fire refer to map 2 - land management...

Bushland Rehabilitation Plans

Primrose Park Bushland

Middle Harbour Catchment

2001

SECTION 2

REHABILITATION PLAN

Primrose Park Bushland

INTRODUCTION

Site History

BACKGROUND

Reserve Summary

1.0 FLORA Refer to Map 1 -Vegetation Communities

1.1. Creekline Vegetation

1.2 Weed Assessment Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues

1.3 Vulnerable and Threatened Species

1.4 Locally Rare Species

2.0 FAUNA

2.1 Terrestrial Vertebrates

2.2 Other native Fauna Groups

2.3 Introduced and Feral Animals


2.5 Locally Rare Species

3.0 BUSHLAND FRAGMENTATION

3.1 Habitat Corridors

4.0 FIRE Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for details of fire history.

5.0 URBAN RUNOFF Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of stormwater channels.

6.0 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL SITES

7.0 EUROPEAN HERITAGE SITES

8.0 RESERVE USERS

8.1 Vandalism and Misuse

9.0 EXISTING PROPERTIES ADJOINING BUSHLAND

9.1 Noxious Weeds

9.2 Encroachment

9.3 Dumping

9.4 Pets

10.0 ACTION PLAN

10.1 Rehabilitation Works

Objectives

Zone Definition Refer to Map 3 - Rehabilitation Zones

MATRIX Refer to Map 4 - Rehabilitation Actions for each individual zone.

10.2 Management Strategies, Plans and other Programs required for a successful rehabilitation process

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INTRODUCTION Primrose Park bushland consists of a narrow strip bordered by residential properties, grass covered sports fields and the waters of Willoughby Bay. Willoughby Falls is located off Grafton Street and is the main point of entry for stormwater to the receiving natural creekline below. The area is approx. 76 390m2. The dominant vegetation association is an Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) Open Forest community. The bushland is typical foreshore vegetation on Hawkesbury sandstone. Weeds are dominant along property boundaries and the creekline edges. A large monoculture of Lantana (Lantana camara) exists below sixteen residential properties of Churchill Crescent. Other areas are being degraded by invasive exotic vines and the spread of Privet (Ligustrum sp.) and Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) by birds throughout the bushland area. Bush regeneration activities are carried out by the Primrose Park Bushcare Group, Council’s Bushland Management Team and bush regeneration contractors. The bushland of Primrose Park forms an important link to Brightmore Reserve and the bushland of Wonga Rd. The bushland is mainly utilised by passive recreationists and the occasional dog walker, often seen to be without a lead. Domestic cats are sometimes observed wandering aimlessly through the vegetation between residential areas and the main walking track. Site History Aboriginals frequented the coastal foreshore of Willoughby Bay for thousands of years. Shell middens and cave paintings are represented in the area and perhaps many other signs of Aboriginal life exist but at present remain undiscovered. The Aboriginal name for this area has been lost along with most of the verbal history of the local indigenous people. The successive generations of Aboriginal people had a deep respect for the area, living in natural harmony with the environment for many thousands of years. The Willoughby Bay Sewerage Works was built in 1891 on vacant land at Willoughby Bay including an additional 2.6Ha reclaimed by dredging at the head of the Bay. Previous to the construction, the pollution on the northern side of the Harbour was arousing the ‘ire’ of the community. With completion of the ocean outfall at North Head in 1927, the sewerage was diverted and the Works were closed down. North Sydney Council acquired the land in 1929 and converted it into playing fields. Also, with the commendable foresight of the Cremorne and Neutral Bay Progress Associations, Council were urged to acquire the whole area and not just the sand flats. The Progress Associations believed the bushland surrounding the site added “natural beauty to what should be the best playing area in North Sydney”. We are fortunate that this example of turn-of-the-century industrial architecture is still in good condition. The engine and compressor houses are now utilised for various activities including an Arts and Crafts Centre, a local Hockey Club House and a

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Tennis Court Hire and Administration Centre. The original septic tanks (filled in) now support the Tennis Courts and the large sludge tanks now form the Car park. The elaborate concrete work of the effluent surge tanks and associated channels can still be seen today. Primrose Park was named after H.L Primrose, Mayor of North Sydney 1926-1932 whom later became the NSW Minister for Health. Formal walking tracks throughout the bushland were upgraded during 1997 with the installation of wooden stairways and boardwalks. Primrose Park Bushcare Group was formed in 1993. The Bushcare site continues to expand as more degraded areas become successfully regenerated. In 2000, the Group spent a total of 84hrs working on site. The Bushland Management Team visit each bushland reserve on a weekly rotational basis. Primrose Park was regenerated and rehabilitated for approx. 200 hrs in 2000. Activities included primary, secondary and maintenance weeding; logging and mulching steep degraded slopes; selectively cutting down Privet sp. (Ligustrum sp.) and watering planted tubestock throughout. Contract bush regeneration teams have been working in the Primrose Park area since 1987. The contract bush regeneration team spent approx. 790 hrs regenerating this site in 2000. BACKGROUND Reserve Summary Council Zoning Bushland Area of Reserve 76 389m2

Level of Degradation: <10% 12 999m2

10-30% 30 779m2 31-60% 12 829m2 >60% 16 742m2

Length of Boundaries 4980.6m No. of Properties Adjoining Bushland

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Length of walking track 1009.7m

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1.0 FLORA Refer to Map 1 -Vegetation Communities for location details.

Primrose Park consists of two remnant vegetation communities which are part of the Sydney Sandstone Complex – Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (10ag) as indicated by Benson and Howell, 1994. The vegetation is symbolic of the North Shore and consists of:

1. Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) Open Forest on the slopes with an understorey dominated by Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She-oak), Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree), Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern).

2. Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt) Woodland dominated by Casuarina glauca (Swamp She-oak) and Microlaena stipoides (Weeping Meadow Grass).

For further information see: Appendix 2 – Table 1: Classification of vegetation communities. Section 3 – Native plant species list for Primrose Park.

1.1 Creekline Vegetation

The creekline receives stormwater from the greater residential area of Cremorne and enters the waterway at Willoughby Falls which is located off Grafton Street, Cremorne. The water initially runs through the bushland area for 50m and is then diverted into an open concrete channel approx. 1.5m wide. The water is then discharged into Willoughby Bay. Efforts have been made in the past to reduce the high velocity of water emerging from the concrete channel which has a smooth surface and runs in a straight line towards the Bay. An energy dissipater has been installed at the end of the channel to slow down and disperse the waters before they enter the Bay. Large Leaf Privets (Ligustrum lucidum) and pockets of Lantana (Lantana camara) are found along the creekline together with remnant native vegetation such as Callicoma serratifolia (Black Wattle), Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood), Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree). The original estuarine plant community at the mouth of the creekline adjacent to Willoughby Bay was lost during the construction of the Sewerage Works in 1891. The mudflats were reclaimed and the water diverted through a series of tanks and concrete lined channels. This area would have contained mangrove thickets, mudflats and habitat for a wide variety of estuarine flora and fauna.

1.2 Weed Assessment

Weed species are present in the reserve due to many factors.

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The creekline is a source of weed seed and increased nutrient pollution from the upper catchment. This has resulted in the spread of weed species on the cliff face of the Falls and along the banks of the creekline below. Many Large Leaf Privets (Ligustrum lucidum) and pockets of Lantana (Lantana camara) still line the banks of the creek. Exotic vines are also present in the area eg. Morning Glory (Ipomea indica) and Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum). Weed species found adjacent to the rear of residential properties are present due to many factors which contribute increased moisture and nutrients to the bushland edge. These include:

- ‘Hard surface’ runoff from impervious surfaces eg. Driveways, concrete paths, roofs;

- Garden watering systems and pools; - Imported fill soil and major disturbance to the original soil structure; - Use of fertiliser; and - Dumping of garden clippings ‘over the back fence’ has also enabled many

ornamental species to spread throughout the bushland. Native species which are usually found along rainforest margins eg. Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum), Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) are successfully colonising areas of Open Forest. These native species flourish in elevated soil moisture and nutrient conditions and in areas where fire has been excluded for long periods. The original soil profile has been disturbed in some locations and the native seed bank (found in the topsoil) has been buried or lost. The native seed bank takes many years to develop and mature. Major soil disturbance makes unassisted native plant regeneration almost impossible. Due to this factor, to assist regeneration, sections of the bushland may have to be planted with local indigenous species. The placement of these plants will reflect their natural occurrence in the existing bushland ecosystem. Weed species also invade along the edge of the bushland. The perimeter of the bushland along Grafton Street, Cremorne is highly impacted by ‘edge effects’ where the bushland is bordered by lawn grass species and wind borne seeds are most likely to be deposited along these edges as the bushland slows down wind velocities. For further information see: Appendix 2 – Table 2: Weed assessment details. Section 4 – Weed species list for North Sydney. Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of Weed Zones.


There are no vulnerable or threatened flora species found in the bushland of Primrose Park as listed in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

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2.4 Locally Rare Species Calystegia marginata is a locally rare native vine species found within the bushland of Primrose Park. It can be confused with the weed species Morning Glory (Ipomea indica) as both species have similar round purple flowers, however, the leaves can be used to distinguish between the two different species. Two species low in population numbers include Persoonia levis (Broad-leaved Geebung) and Persoonia pinifolia (Pine-leaved Geebung). For further information see: Appendix 2 – Table 3: Regional significance of Locally Rare Species. 2.0 FAUNA

2.1 Terrestrial Vertebrates There are relatively few fauna species within the Reserve. There is evidence of Ringtail Possums (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) and the Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) who frequent the area on nightly foraging trips. Eastern Water Dragons (Physignathus lesueurii) have been sighted along the creekline. Usually both adults and juveniles can be witnessed. This suggests that there is a healthy population present in the area. The Blue-tongue Lizards (Tiliqua scincoides) and Eastern Water Skinks (Sphenomorphus quoyii) are commonly found in the area. Common bird species can be found in Primrose Park bushland. These include the Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala), the Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen), the Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina) and visiting Rainbow Lorikeets (Trichoglossus haematodus). Less common species that have been sighted in Primrose Park bushland include the Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans), the White-browed Scub-wren (Sericornis frontalis), Silvereye (Zosterops lateralis) and the Common Koel (Eudynamis scolopacea) which is a migratory species visiting in Spring and Summer each year from the Asia Pacific Region. The Australian Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), Magpie Lark (Grallina cyanoleuca), and the Welcome Swallow (Hirundo neoxena) are occasionally witnessed along the bushland edges. A pair of Masked Plovers (Vanellus miles) are commonly seen on the sports fields adjacent to the bushland area. Periodically, Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus funereus) have been seen in Primrose Park bushland perhaps seeking out any available nesting hollows. The small flock of birds are, however, readily harassed by the extremely territorial Noisy Miners and chased from the Reserve. In 1997, a Little Egret (Ardea garzetta) was seen in the canopy of the foreshore vegetation leading out to Folly Point. This individual was also driven out of the area by territorial Noisy Miners. There is a lack of nesting hollows in Primrose Park due to the absence of mature native trees that tend to bear such hollows. Native birds, arboreal mammals and bat

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species suffer from the lack of safe nesting and roosting sites. These creatures play an important role in the ecology of the vegetation communities of Primrose Park. They act as pollinators, natural seed dispersal units, and aid in the germination of some native plant species. For further information see: Section 5 – Fauna in North Sydney Section 8 – Law and Policy: National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974.

2.2 Other native Fauna Groups

• Terrestrial Invertebrates • Aquatic Vertebrates, and • Aquatic Invertebrates.

A formal survey of the diversity and abundance of the above group of organisms has never been undertaken by North Sydney Council. It is recommended that more detailed studies be undertaken in the future.

2.3 Introduced and Feral Animals Tracks, scats and other traces of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) have been identified in Primrose Park. The Red Fox would probably have a territory covering the area of both Primrose Park and Brightmore Reserve bushland areas. It is recommended that Fox Control Programs be implemented in conjunction with neighbouring Council areas, or if possible, on a regional basis. The Fox Control Program would also have to be an ongoing yearly expenditure so that Foxes from outside the city that move into the newly created urban bushland niches are not left to take up a territory and begin to reproduce in the area. For further information see: Section 5 – Fauna of North Sydney: Introduced Species.

2.4 Vulnerable and Threatened Species The Bent Wing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii) is found seasonally within the bushland area. This species is listed as vulnerable in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. This species has another roost located within Balls Head Reserve, Waverton which is also seasonally utilised. This species was positively identified during early 2000. For further information see: Flora and Fauna Assessment – Waverton Peninsula. Conducted by Fly By Night Bat Survey Pty Ltd, June 2000. Contact the Bushland Management Team on 9936 8224.

2.5 Locally Rare Species A formal survey of the diversity and population size of all existing fauna species in North Sydney has never been undertaken, therefore, it is impossible to ascertain

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whether a species is rare or not. The precautionary principle is utilised in bush regeneration activities to accommodate this lack of knowledge. Current and ongoing data collection of fauna species exists as a result of the community based Wildlife Watch Program and sightings made by Council staff and Contractors. All fauna is protected in North Sydney and it is essential to know what exists to assist in better management practices. 3.0 BUSHLAND FRAGMENTATION The bushland of Primrose Park is bordered by residential development, roads, parkland and sports fields. The thin, narrow size of the bushland parcel makes it vulnerable to weed invasion and rapid weed colonisation. Some of the bushland areas are bordered by lawn which is an edge that requires constant maintenance to keep the lawn grasses from invading the bushland. There are two formal tracks which pass through the bushland. The main walking track starts on the northern side of the Primrose Park Tennis Courts (off Young Street) and finishes at Folly Point (off Cammeray Rd). This track also allow access to Lambert Street. The track was upgraded in 1997 with the installation of wooden stairs and occasional boardwalks to provide a safer and more convenient passage for reserve users. The second track is titled the ‘Zig Zag’ track due to its winding character. The Zig Zag track is a shorter, steeper track and starts at the rear of the Tennis Courts and finishes at the lookout area adjacent to Grafton Street. This track was also upgraded in 1997, creating more formalised access to the bushland area and the Tennis Courts. Informal tracks throughout the bushland are relatively insignificant. The bushland of Primrose Park lies adjacent to the bushland of Brightmore Reserve and Wonga Rd. These bushland areas are separated by Young St, which dissects Brightmore Reserve and large tracts of lawn which dissect the bushland of Wonga Rd.

3.1 Habitat Corridors During 1998 and 2000 native garden beds were created along the top of the car park at the end of Young Street. These areas are an extension of native vegetation from existing bushland in Primrose Park. The creation of the wildlife habitat corridor extending from Brightmore Reserve, the extension of the bushland at Wonga Road and underplanting a selection of existing parkland trees in the area will greatly benefit native wildlife in Primrose Park bushland. This includes the ability to move to other bushland areas safely, the increase of foraging areas and the greater selection of suitable nesting/roosting sites.

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4.0 FIRE Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for details of fire history.

Three pile burns have been conducted within the bushland of Primrose Park during the past 6 years. A management burn was carried out during 1996, on a 200m strip of bushland, on the lower side of the track at the Folly Point end of the bushland area. This was done to complement the activities of the bush regeneration contractors who had been regenerating the area for the past 9 yrs. Many native species germinated as a result of the fire including Astrotricha sp., Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), Acacia linifolia (Flax-leafed Wattle), Hibbertia dentata (Twining Guinea Flower), Geitonoplesium cymosum (Scrambling Lily), Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt), Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple). The second burn was also undertaken during 1996 on the Primrose Park Bushcare Site. During primary weeding activities in 1995-96, woody weeds were stacked into piles (1m height x 2m width) and later burnt to further assist the natural regeneration already occurring on the site. The third burn to occur in the area was undertaken in 1998 in bushland below Grafton Street. A total of 8 woody weed piles were burnt to assist the regeneration of this contract site. The regeneration of species included Gahnia aspera (Sword Grass), Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), Acacia linifolia (Flax-leafed Wattle), Acacia terminalis (Sunshine Wattle), Grevillea linearifolia (White Spider Flower), Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia), Lomatia silaifolia (Crinkle Bush) and Leptospermum trinervium (Paperbark Tree). All burns in the area were carried out by the local fire brigade and assisted closely by the Bushland Management Team. Pile burns were conducted late in 2001 on the Bushcare Site and opposite 35-37 Grafton Street, Cremorne. Results are yet to be recorded. Fire is an ecological tool required to sustain the plant communities of Primrose Park. There are several areas throughout Primrose Park that require burning for the purposes of maintaining diversity and stimulating the germination of native seeds which lay dormant in the soil. Some species can be eliminated from a bushland area due to the absence of fire. As addressed in the Bushland Fire Management Policy, 1997: Section 4 – ‘several areas that contain high fuel levels require burning not only for ecological purposes but also to manage the fuel levels on some sites’. For further information see: Appendix 2 – Table 4: Fire history of Primrose Park.

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Section 9 – Bushland Fire Management Policy for North Sydney Council. 5.0 URBAN RUNOFF Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of stormwater channels.

Stormwater originates from the greater suburb of Cremorne and is discharged into the creekline from Willoughby Falls. The natural creekline runs through the gully for approx. 75m before being diverted into a concrete stormwater channel. There are several other stormwater and sewerage pipes that traverse this bushland area. In heavy rainfall periods, fluid is often seen to be leaking from the round concrete pop-top lids into the surrounding bushland area. The increased moisture and nutrients have a negative affect on native vegetation and favours the growth of weed species. Other urban runoff originates from residential properties. Runoff enters the bushland from small pipes that carry runoff water from hard surface areas including driveways, roofs, cemented areas and other impervious surfaces. The runoff enters the bushland creating moist soil conditions not favourable to the existing native species in the area. For further information see Appendix 2 – Table 5: Stormwater characteristics of Primrose Park. Middle Harbour Catchment Management Plan, 1999: Stanton Library. 6.0 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL SITES There are two known Aboriginal sites located within Primrose Park. All Aboriginal sites are significant and protected in the North Sydney area. All sites require specialist management and there are certain procedures which need to be undertaken in relation to bush regeneration practices, monitoring and maintenance processes. A large midden can be found on Folly Point. Informal tracks and trampling of this highly used area will be addressed in the Matrix. The identification and location of all known and potential Aboriginal sites in Primrose Park have been recorded on a closed access database and an Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for this bushland area was prepared in 1999 by North Sydney Council’s Aboriginal Heritage Officer. For further information see: Section 8 – Law and Policy: Aboriginal Heritage Management. Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for Primrose Park, 1999. Development Control Plan: Heritage and Cultural Resources, 1999.

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7.0 EUROPEAN HERITAGE SITES Willoughby Falls is listed as a heritage item in North Sydney. This area was an important recreation and picnic spot during the nineteenth century. It soon became one of the most cited natural attractions of the North Shore as an excursion destination. It was featured in a colour lithograph which appeared on the cover of a musical score entitled “Raindrops in Australia” by Miska Hauser, published in the 1950’s. It was often photographed in subsequent decades. It was compromised by the creation of the Willoughby Bay Sewage Works below the Falls from 1891 and the reclamation and enclosure in pipes of the creek below the Falls during the early twentieth century. This bushland area is also a representative example of the early twentieth century approach to natural features and also to subsequent Parkland improvement programmes. For further information see: North Sydney Heritage Study Review, 1993: Stanton Library. North Sydney Council Heritage Inventory Database: Stanton Library. 8.0 RESERVE USERS The community commonly uses the bushland areas of Primrose Park for:

• Walking/dog exercise • Jogging • Nature appreciation • Boat storage sites (Folly Point)

There are approx. 50 dinghies stored along the foreshore of Folly Point. These dinghies are chained to foreshore vegetation. Alternative structures will need to be installed to limit the damage caused to the remnant vegetation and thus preventing erosion and ‘wash out’ areas along the foreshore. The headland is highly utilised and impacted upon. Informal tracks, soil compaction, soil erosion and exposure of the Aboriginal midden are all effects of human use. Primrose Park can be accessed by public transport (bus only) or by private vehicle. A small car parking area is located at the end of Young St which can hold around 20 cars. The walking tracks provide access to Grafton Street, Cammeray Road, Folly Point and the foreshore areas of Willoughby Bay. For further information see: Appendix 2– Table 6: Boat Storage Sites.

8.1 Vandalism and Misuse The presence of graffiti and structural damage is minimal within the bushland areas of the Park.

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9.0 EXISTING PROPERTIES ADJOINING BUSHLAND 9.1 Noxious Weeds

Noxious weeds such as Madeira Vine (Anredera cordifolia), Lantana (Lantana camara), Morning Glory (Ipomea indica) and Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) are found throughout the bushland. A lengthy thicket of Lantana is located to the rear of 7 - 33 Churchill Cresent that forms a monoculture in the midstorey and is habitat for many species of small birds eg. White-browed Scrub-wrens, Silvereyes, Superb Blue-wrens. This patch of Lantana will be left until last to be regenerated within the bushland area. Suitable habitat in adjacent sections of the bushland will be created and allowed to mature before the Lantana is removed. This will ensure survival of the small bird species within this area. As regeneration activities are initiated in Primrose Park by the Bushland Management Team, Contractors and /or the Primrose Park Bushcare Group, Noxious Weeds Notices will be sent out to adjoining properties if noxious weeds are present on their land. For further information see: Section 4 – Noxious Weeds/Environmental Weeds list for the North Sydney Council area. Section 8 – Law and policy: Noxious Weeds Act, 1993.

9.2 Encroachment Residents of Young Street have extended gardens and outdoor furniture past their property boundary and into the bushland. Any person found to be encroaching onto bushland areas will be approached by Council and the issues concerned will be discussed.

9.3 Dumping

There is recent evidence of garden refuse dumping into the bushland area, especially along the rear of properties of Churchill Cresent. Garden refuse dumping appears to have been occurring for many years. Reminders of past household and industrial waste dumping episodes can also be seen. Piles of garden refuse are generally made up of lawn clippings, tree branches, discarded household pot plants and weed species. Dumping garden refuse into the bushland has many negative affects on the surrounding environment including:

• Increased soil nutrients from the decomposition of vegetative matter, • The spread of weed species into the bushland by seed or cuttings, • The spread of lawn grass into the understorey, and • The spread of exotic household plants, some of which, spread rapidly

throughout the bushland.

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Thousands of dollars are spent each year to combat weed species from spreading throughout the bushland. To educate the local residents on these issues will help to reduce this major threat to the bushland of Primrose Park. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of North Sydney Council’s Green Waste Pick-up Service. Collections can be organised at any time of the year by calling 9936 8326 and leaving your details.

For further information see: Section 8 – Law and Policy: Local Government Act, 1919. 9.4 Pets

Dogs and cats are frequently seen throughout the bushland of Primrose Park. Should you wish to exercise your dog in the bushland areas, your pet is required to be on a leash. Cats should be kept in at night for the benefit of our local nocturnal native fauna who reside in the bushland areas of the Park. For further information see: Section 8 – Law and policy: Companion Animals Act, 1999 and Councils Policy on Dog Control in North Sydney.

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10.0 ACTION PLAN

10.1 Rehabilitation Works Detailed information and the location of rehabilitation works to be carried out over the lifespan of this document in each bushland area. Each bushland

reserve is divided into smaller Zones to provide a more detailed vision for each different location. The rehabilitation works are then given a priority rating.

10.2 Management Strategies and other Programs

These additional documents are required to assist a successful rehabilitation process.

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10.0 ACTION PLAN

10.1 Rehabilitation Works

Priority The priority ratings given to each action in the matrix are subject to the availability of staff, funding and existing ideologies at the time of creation. For these reasons modification of priorities may occur as special circumstances arise. ST (Short Term) Action completed within 2 years. MT (Medium Term) Action completed within 2-4 years. LT (Long Term) Action commenced after 4 years. O (Ongoing) Action is carried out on a regular basis for the life of this action plan. C (Commenced) Action has commenced. CP (Completed) Action has been carried out. Identification numbers eg. 1A, 1B etc. shown in the Issues column of the Action Plan relate to the corresponding Map for that zone and the action required.

NOTE: The Rehabilitation Plan is designed to be relevant for a five year period and to be extensively reviewed and updated at the end of this time.

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OBJECTIVES Primrose Park Bushland - To conserve and restore the remnant indigenous plant communities of the area, - To rehabilitate disturbed bushland edges to reflect the floristic and structural diversity of former vegetation communities, - To conserve locally rare flora and promote biodiversity, - To control and reduce the spread of weeds throughout the bushland, - To provide native habitat for the local indigenous fauna and encourage the creation of corridors to other bushland parcels, - To protect and conserve areas of Aboriginal Heritage, - To minimise the effects of stormwater pollution on creeklines and urban runoff in the surrounding bushland, - To minimise the spread of weed species from adjacent land, - To facilitate residents wishing to regenerate remnant bushland in their backyards or recreate the bushland which once existed there, and - To provide for responsible reserve use whilst protecting remnant bushland.

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ZONE 1 Refer to Map 3 – Rehabilitation Zones for the location of this zone.

Folly Point is the location of Zone 1. This area contains remnant Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt) and Casuarina glauca (Swamp She-oak). The midstorey and understorey have been converted to lawn. Remnant midstorey and understorey remain intact on the eastern edge of the Point. This area is heavily utilised as a boat storage site. Folly Point contains a large Aboriginal midden which requires special management procedures. This area is maintained by the Bushland Management Team. Refer to Map 4 – Rehabilitation Actions for the location of Proposed Actions in this zone.

Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure

Vegetation Management

1A

Thin strip of remnant vegetation on the eastern side of the headland impacted upon by lawn grass and the edge effects where the bushland meets the lawn eg. Wind blown weed seeds are deposited, lawn grasses invading.

Encourage this section of bushland to expand and extend the boundaries to meet the rock outcrop to the west. This area is currently a thin strip of lawn grass serving little purpose in this hidden corner.

MT Bushland area is expanded to meet rock outcrop and maintained.

Reserve Users 1B

1C

Boat storage area and access to this site resulting in damage to foreshore vegetation and Aboriginal site.

Find alternative to chaining dinghies up to trees on the foreshore. eg. install several short wooden poles with metal “D” loops and simple instructive signage to inform dinghy users of the new procedure. Provide incentives. Upgrade the existing formal walking track and discourage the use of all informal tracks. Elevate the walkway in sections where required. Re-turf areas where required with native grass virocells eg. Microlaena stipoides (Weeping Meadow Grass). Maintain.

ST LT

Dinghies are being chained to alternative structure other than foreshore vegetation. Formal walking track is upgraded, grass areas are rehabilitated and the whole area is adequately maintained.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure To protect the foreshore from erosion, ‘wash out’ and soil compaction, a low strip of wooden decking along the lowest point of the headland would ensure protection of this highly utilised foreshore area. All activities will have to be carried out under close and guided instruction from Councils Aboriginal Heritage Officer.

LT ST/O

Structure is in place to deal with high traffic volumes and soil erosion and compaction is kept to a minimum. Aboriginal Heritage Officer has been consulted and works carried out to his approval.

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Remnant Open Forest dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) with midstorey of Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia) and an understorey of Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern), Dianella caerulea (Paroo Lily) and Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush). This area is currently being regenerated by bush regeneration contractors. Refer to Map 4 – Rehabilitation Actions for the location of Proposed Actions in this zone.



Weed species emerging in good/fair bushland due to natural dispersal processes.

Sweep through the area six times per year removing new weed growth – working from the good bush out into the degraded edges. Remove and/or control the spread of seasonal weed species along walking track edges.

C/O C/O

Newly colonised weed species are removed and the area is maintained appropriately. Walking track edges are adequately maintained.

2A The lower edges of the bushland (adjacent to the sports fields) are under threat from encroaching exotic vine - Morning Glory (Ipomea indica).

Prevent the further spread of exotic vines by cutting and painting stems with Roundup Biactive. This will ensure canopy protection in the long-term.

ST/O Vine species are appropriately controlled and canopy is protected.

2B Entrance to the formal walking track through Primrose Park from Cammeray Road is poorly defined and the bushland in poor condition.

Create a formal entrance to the Primrose Park walking track. Remove weed species and encourage the return of native indigenous species. Plant indigenous tubestock where required. Maintain.

LT Formal entrance has been created and maintained.

A number of exotic tree species have been injected along the edges of the track over the

Unstable and unsafe trees will be removed as required.

C/O Unstable and unsafe trees are removed as required.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure past 3 years. Some are showing signs of instability.

2C Morning Glory (Ipomea indica), Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis) dominate the understorey and canopy of the remnant Open Forest in the southern section of this Zone.

Cut vines from canopy trees and paint the stems with Roundup Biactive or similar with low surfactant. Roll back Wandering Jew in scattered patches and plant native canopy trees in open sections of the understorey. Maintain.

C/O

Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) and Wild Tobacco Bush (Solanum mauritianum) are successfully colonising various areas of Open Forest.

Thin out these species, especially in situations where these trees are obstructing the growth of other native flora species.

O Native tree and shrub species grow un-obstructed from Pittosporum undulatum and Solanum mauritianum.

Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis) creating a carpet monoculture in the understorey.

Roll back the Wandering Jew and direct seed with local indigenous species collected from the surrounding bushland. Maintain. Use ‘Garlon’ herbicide to eradicate Wandering Jew from areas where it is growing in amongst other native groundcovers.

C C/O

Wandering Jew has been removed and the area is regenerated and appropriately maintained.

Reserve users Formal walking track lacks simple directional signage. Informal tracks are found throughout the bushland area.

Install directional signage and icons on short wooden totem pole structures that blend with the surrounding environment. Three locations: - track entrance from Cammeray Rd; - junction of three separate tracks below Churchill Cresent (indicating Folly Point, Primrose Park and Foreshore Access); - track entrance from Primrose Park sports fields adjacent to Willoughby Bay. Discourage all informal tracks throughout the bushland by brush matting, using simple signage and/or roping off areas where required.

LT ST

Directional signage has been installed in appropriate locations along the track. Informal tracks are discouraged and formal tracks are adequately maintained.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure Formal walking track requires periodic maintenance. Main walking track does not have a formal title.

Maintain. Carry out track maintenance at least 4 times per year. When the Primrose Park Track Upgrade is completed, the opening ceremony will also include a renaming ceremony. The new title will be decided after consultation with the local community, the local Bushcare Group and local historians with the final decision implemented by Council’s Bushland Management Team.

C/O LT

Track has been renamed after all appropriate consultations have been carried out.

Garden Refuse Dumping

Residential properties of Churchill Cresent show evidence of dumping garden refuse into the adjacent bushland area.

Send offending property owners a Council Dumping Notice outlining the law and the fines which may be imposed. Refer them to the Council Green Waste pick-up Service which may be used whenever required. Follow-up with a locally targeted community education program.

ST MT

Dumping Notice has been issued to offending neighbours. Community Education Program has been initiated.

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This bushland zone is highly degraded and dominated by the presence of Lantana (Lantana camara), Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) and Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis). There are a few scattered Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) left surviving in this remnant Open Forest area. Because of its highly degraded state, this area will be included as a ‘no touch zone’ and left until last to be regenerated. This area is also a haven for small bird species which flourish within the protection of the Lantana throughout the midstorey. Other zones within Primrose Park bushland will respond much more effectively to bush regeneration practices in the long-term when compared to this area. Refer to Map 4 – Rehabilitation Actions for the location of Proposed Actions in this zone.



3A

The last few remaining remnant native trees becoming smothered by weed species include Morning Glory (Ipomea indica), Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Lantana (Lantana camara). Monoculture of Lantana (Lantana Camara) in the understorey and midstorey.

Remove weed species from around the base of these trees, where possible. Cut and paint exotic vines with Roundup Biactive or similar herbicide with low surfactant. Ensure the survival of these native tree species in the long-term. This area will be left as a ‘no touch zone’ until all other areas surrounding it are successfully rehabilitated. Provides excellent habitat for small bird populations which require spikey thick understorey and midstorey for survival. This habitat needs to be recreated elsewhere, using native plant species, before existing

ST/O Vines are appropriately controlled and canopy trees are protected. Maintain. No action required within the 5 year time span of this Rehabilitation Plan.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure habitat is removed.

Reserve Users Informal tracks are found throughout the bushland area. Formal walking track requires periodic maintenance. Main walking track does not have a formal title.

Discourage all informal tracks throughout the bushland by brush matting, using simple signage and/or roping off areas where required. Maintain. Carry out track maintenance at least 4 times per year. When the Primrose Park Track Upgrade is completed, the opening ceremony will also include a renaming ceremony. The new title will be decided after consultation with the local community, the local Bushcare Group and local historians with the final decision implemented by Council’s Bushland Management Team.

ST C/O LT

Informal tracks discouraged and formal tracks are appropriately maintained. Track has been renamed after all appropriate consultations have been carried out.

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An area of Open Forest dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) with an midstorey of Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She-oak), Leptospermum trinervium (Paperbark Tree), Polyscias sambucifolia (Elderberry Panax) and Cyathea cooperi (Straw Treefern) and an understorey dominated by Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern). Two large stormwater outlets are present within this zone. A large section of this zone is regenerated by the Primrose Park Bushcare Group and bush regeneration contractors. A smaller area is regenerated by the Bushland Management Team. Refer to Map 4 – Rehabilitation Actions for the location of Proposed Actions in this zone.



Weed species emerging in good/fair bushland due to natural dispersal processes.

Sweep through the area six times per year removing new weed growth – working from the good bush out into the degraded edges.

C/O New weed growth is appropriately suppressed and the area is maintained.

4A Lawn grass (eg. Couch, Kikuyu) encroaching into regeneration areas, rehabilitated (planted) slopes and remnant bushland along sections of this zone which lie adjacent to Lambert Street, Grafton Street and Earle Street.

Define the edge between the bushland and the lawn by using a natural log border and/or creating a spray edge. Spot spray this edge six times per year with Roundup Biactive (or similar with low surfactant). Use a low concentration of Roundup Biactive (1:200) to spray invasive lawn grass species that are growing amongst native Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and others along the perimeter of the bushland. Ensure fallen trees, shrubs and overhanging branches are efficiently removed or cut back

MT ST ST/O

Bushland edges are defined and maintained. Lawn grasses are appropriately controlled along perimeter areas. Bushland edges are adequately maintained ensuring that lawn seed does

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from lawn areas so that grass cutting contractors are not forced to avoid cutting areas of lawn at any given time.

not go to seed and spread throughout the bushland.

4A The edge of the bushland is constantly under threat from wind borne weeds which germinate efficiently along this entire bushland/lawn edge. Common species include Crofton Weed (Ageratina adenophora ), Fleabane (Conyza sp.), Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), Cobblers Pegs (Bidens pilosa). Morning Glory (Ipomea indica), Coastal Morning Glory (Ipomoea cairica) and Madeira Vine (Anredera cordifolia) are also present along this edge.

Maintain the bushland edge. Remove and/or control the spread of seasonal weed species. Prevent the further spread of exotic vines by cutting and painting stems with Roundup Biactive.

ST/O Bushland edges are appropriately maintained.

4B Remnant vegetation adjacent to Willoughby Falls and the second large stormwater outlet in bushland off Earle Street are under threat from the spread of weed species including Lantana (Lantana camara), Morning Glory (Ipomea indica), Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum).

Regenerate the creekline banks, working from within the core of good bush (upslope) then moving down towards the more degraded edges of the creekline or stormwater channel.

C/O Creek banks are appropriately regenerated and maintained.

A diversity of weed species growing on the cliff face of Willoughby Falls.

Incorporate abseiling activities on this cliff face to remove the weed species that are providing a constant weed seed source to the lower catchment.

ST Weed species on cliff edges are removed and the area is regularly maintained.

Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) is successfully colonising bushland areas that are affected by stormwater and increased moisture and nutrients from urban runoff.

Removal of Pittosporum undulatum from the understorey/midstorey and selective removal from the canopy where the trees are found to be smothering other native canopy species. Removal should be a t a rate of no more than 20% per year.

C/O Pittosporum undulatum is appropriately removed and the area is maintained.

Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) trees are found scattered throughout the bushland area

Removal of Camphor laurel trees from the understorey/midstorey and selective removal from the canopy where the trees are found to be

C/O Camphor laurel trees are appropriately removed and the area is maintained.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure smothering other native canopy species. Removal should be a t a rate of no more than 20% per year.

A number of exotic tree species have been injected along the edges of the track over the past 3 years.

Unstable and unsafe trees will be removed as required.

C/O Unstable and unsafe trees are removed as required.

Periodic re-emergence of Pampass Grass (Cortaderia selloana) within the bushland area.

Instant eradication of this noxious and aggressive weed species upon regular inspection.

O Pampass Grass is appropriately controlled.

Locally Rare Species

4C

Calystegia marginata is located on the Primrose Park Bushcare Site. Only a few specimens remain.

Collect seed of Calystegia marginata from adjacent bushland areas within the same catchment within a 10km radius. Propagate this species for redistribution within this zone. Plant in appropriate areas that are being regenerated to increase the stock size of this species and ensure the long-term viability of this species in the area. Maintain.

Locally rare species numbers are maintained in the area.

Fire

4D

Piles burnt on the Bushcare Site that were created from the gradual removal of Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) during primary weeding activities in 1999/2000. Piles were burnt in late 2001.

Maintain post-burn areas. MT Post-burn areas are adequately maintained.

4E

Piles of woody weeds were created during primary weeding in the area south of the Zig Zag Track during 2000.

Organise to burn the piles of woody weeds and extend the burn to incorporate a longer strip of understorey. This burn site is adjacent to the burn site that was undertaken in 1998. This burn aims to strengthen the vitality of the regenerating bushland adjacent to the degraded bushland edge. The burn will be carried out in conjunction with the local fire brigade. Maintain the post-burn areas.

MT

Reserve Users 4F

A short walking track off Lambert Street provides access to the main walking track through Primrose Park. This side track needs to

Undertake track maintenance 4 times per year. Remove obstructing vegetation and discourage any informal tracks which may have developed.

ST

Informal tracks are discouraged and formal tracks are well defined.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure be redefined and signposted to allow for well guided access.

Provide directional signage to direct reserve users to the track entrance off Lambert Street. A wooden structure will be used to blend with the surrounding environment. Replace missing sandstone steps and add additional steps where required. Plant out the edges of the track with low growing native species where appropriate. Maintain. Regenerate and rehabilitate the bushland surrounding the track entrance off Lambert Street. Maintain. It is a future vision to create a crushed sandstone pathway beginning at Lambert Street and finishing at the current entrance to the bushland area. The bushland area will then be regenerated and rehabilitated up to the edge of the crushed sandstone path on the lower side (bushland side) of the track.

ST MT LT

Appropriate directional signage has been installed. Sandstone steps have been replaced where required and the bushland edges are appropriately maintained. Track entrance off Lambert St is regenerated/rehabilitated and adequately maintained.

The ‘Zig Zag Track’ provides access to the bushland of Primrose Park and the Tennis Courts from Grafton Street.

Carry out track maintenance at least 4 times per year. Discourage all informal tracks throughout the bushland by brush matting, using simple signage and/or roping off areas where required. Maintain. Provide simple directional signage to direct reserve users to the Zig Zag track entrance off Grafton Street. A wooden structure will be used to blend with the surrounding environment. This will also allow for well guided access to

C/O C/O MT

Track maintenance is regularly carried out. Informal tracks have been discouraged. and formal tracks are well defined and maintained. Directional signage has been installed.

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Issue Current Condition Proposed Action Priority Performance Measure other bushland areas, the Tennis Courts and sports fields of Primrose Park.

Reserve Neighbours A row of Casuarina glauca were planted along the top edge of the bushland during the late 1980’s as part of a bushland rehabilitation project. Following protests from residents of Grafton Street to remove trees, which have now grown very tall and are blocking views to Willoughby Bay, Council has declared that the trees were planted inappropriately and will now have them removed. Casuarina sp. are a food source for Rosella’s, Cockatoos and Lorikeets.

Removal of Casuarina glauca’s from the bushland edge and replacement with more appropriate native species (i.e. low growing shrubs).

ST Casuarina’s have been removed and replaced with appropriate species. The area is adequately maintained.

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Remnant Open Forest dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and a midstorey dominated by Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She-oak), Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree), Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) and Cyathea cooperi (Straw Treefern). The understorey is dominated by Calochlaena dubia (Soft Bracken), Pteridium esculentum (Bracken) and Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush). This area is bordered by residential properties of Young Street, Young Street roadway, access roads leading into Primrose Park, the Primrose Park car park and lawn areas. Refer to Map 4 – Rehabilitation Actions for the location of Proposed Actions in this zone.



Seasonal weed species emerging in good/fair bushland due to natural dispersal processes.

Sweep through the area six times per year removing new weed growth – working from the good bush out into the degraded edges.

C/O Good bush areas are adequately maintained.

5A The lower edges of the bushland (adjacent to the Tennis Court Car Park and the roadway) are under threat from encroaching exotic vine Morning Glory (Ipomea indica).

Prevent the further spread of exotic vines by cutting and painting stems with Roundup Biactive. This will ensure canopy protection in the long-term.

ST/O Vines have been appropriately controlled and the canopy has been protected.

5B Lawn grass (eg. Couch, Kikuyu) encroaching into regeneration areas and remnant bushland along sections of this zone which lie adjacent to the lower access roadway.

Define the edge between the bushland and the lawn by using a natural log border and/or creating a spray edge. Spot spray this edge six times per year with Roundup Biactive (or similar with low surfactant). Use a low concentration of Roundup Biactive (1:200) to spray invasive lawn grass species that are growing amongst native Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and others along the

MT ST

Bushland edge has been defined and regularly maintained. Lawn grasses have been suppressed from invading bushland edges.

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perimeter of the bushland. Ensure fallen trees, shrubs and overhanging branches are efficiently removed or cut back from lawn areas so that grass cutting contractors are not forced to avoid cutting areas of lawn at any given time.

ST/O

Bushland edges are adequately maintained ensuring that lawn seed does not go to seed and spread throughout the bushland.

Native Vegetation Corridor

5C

A native garden bed was created along the edge of Young Street during 2000. This garden bed was planted with native indigenous species. This area replaces lawn on a steep slope that was once difficult to mow. The native garden bed will also contribute to the functional attributes of the Brightmore Reserve to Primrose Park vegetation corridor.

Maintain the native garden bed. O Native garden bed is adequately maintained.

Garden refuse dumping

5D

Residential properties of Young Street show evidence of dumping garden refuse into the adjacent bushland area.

Send offending property owners a Council Dumping Notice outlining the law and the fines which may be imposed. Refer them to the Council Green Waste pick-up Service which may be used whenever required. Follow-up with a locally targeted community education program.

ST MT

Dumping Notice has been sent to offending neighbours. Community education program has been instigated.

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10.2 Management Strategies and other Programs required for a successful rehabilitation process.

Management Strategy/Program

Priority

Responsibility

Creekline Management Strategy for Willoughby Falls

LT

Bushland Management Team

Fire Management Strategy

MT


Fauna Study

LT


Feral Animal Control Program

MT


Wildlife Corridor Strategy

ST


Community Education Program

C/O


Community Education Program – Noxious Weeds, Domestic Animals, Garden Refuse Dumping, Local urban Flora and Fauna (on a reserve by reserve basis). Issuing Notices (where required) – Noxious Weeds Notices, Garden Refuse Dumping Notices. Promotion of Council’s existing Programs: Backyard Bushcare Program, Wildlife Habitat Gardens, Wildlife Watch Program.

ST/O

ST/O

C/O

Department of Open Space and Environmental Services; Bushland Management Team Bushland Management Team Bushland Management Team

Biodiversity Management Plan (Taking into account an ‘All of Council’ approach i.e. planning and assessment, field staff procedures and practices, responsibilities of local industry and businesses)

LT

Environmental Services

bushland rehabilitation plans - north sydney council...4.0 fire refer to map 2 - land management...

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