director’s report cranbourne gardens master plan—...(uk), university of melbourne and the city...

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NEWSLETTER OF THE FRIENDS OF THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS CRANBOURNE, INC.

Cranbourne Gardens Master Plan—setting the vision

In a previous edition of Naturelink I mentioned the development of a Master Plan for Cranbourne Gardens. This is an exciting moment in Cranbourne’s history as the Master Plan will articulate the vision for the site for the next 10 years and beyond. It’s an opportunity to cast our view into the future—to explore what we would like to see happening on the site in 2025 and the steps that need to be taken to achieve that vision. For me there is something really empowering and enticing in the process of imagining a ‘future possible’: to rise above the day-to-day management and inherent realities of the here-and-now, and take a less ‘encumbered’ view point.

Of course this is not the first time that we have undertaken all-of-site strategic planning. Indeed, over the decades since the Cranbourne Gardens was established in 1970, there has been a number of site planning ‘blueprints’ that have guided the conservation, development and management of the site. The most recent of these plans includes the Cranbourne Botanic Garden Masterplan (1994) and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne Development Plan (1995). The Woodland Picnic Area and Australian Garden are two significant achievements from the Development Plan, as is our continued strong focus on active conservation management activities to protect the natural values of the site. The Development Plan also contains some initiatives that, given the passage of time, are no longer appropriate. It is also important to get fresh perspectives from current stakeholders and users of the site to keep our approach relevant to current needs and opportunities.

That’s where you come in! As the caption in the promotional project postcard says, ‘Your ideas will bring this garden to life.’ We want to hear your thoughts on the future of Cranbourne Gardens. What’s working well? What’s not working? What could we do, or offer, that we are currently not doing? What new opportunities for community involvement is there demand for and how could we cater

Director’s report

Chris Russell

Friends of the Royal BotanicGardens Cranbourne, Inc.1000 Ballarto RoadCranbourne Victoria 3977

Inc no. A0025281B ABN 43 551 008 609

Web address:http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/support/support-groups/friends-of-rbg/cranbourne

Highlights

in this issueGrasses workshop 5

Wallabies in the bushland 7

Fungi workshop 8

Friends Basketry 9

We want your ideas. Visit <http://cranbournemasterplan.rbg.vic.gov.au >

Planting re-sprouting natives in the Research Garden for the Woody Meadow coppicing trials

Photo: Ash Ashraf

for them? Are there new revenue-generating ideas that could work for us and help fund the running of the Gardens?

We have just commenced the ideas-generating phase of the Master Plan project and invite everyone to share their ideas and aspirations via our online Master Plan portal (web page). Visit < http:// cranbournemasterplan.rbg.vic.gov.au> and tell us what you love, what you would change, and what your ‘big idea’ is for Cranbourne’s future. Input is possible until 15 January 2016, following which the ideas and feedback will be collated, considered and used to guide the drafting of the Master Plan. I encourage everyone to get involved, and will provide updates in future editions of Naturelink.

Woody Meadow project

The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is partnering with the University of Sheffield (UK), University of Melbourne and the City of Melbourne in the Woody Meadow project.

President: Indra Kurzeme 5904 6275Secretary: Helen Kennedy 9560 0185Vice President: Helen Morrow 9850 9125Immediate Past President: Richard Clarke 5974 1750 Treasurer: Karen Russell 9878 4857Membership Secretary: Helen Morrow 9850 9125RBGC Representative: Chris Russell 5990 2200General Committee

Amy Akers 0423 513 281Margaret Clarke 5974 1750 Rodger Elliot 8774 2483Chloe Foster 9725 3569Barrie Gallacher 9857 7378Barbara Jeffery 5998 5410

Christine Kenyon 9589 2154 James McKee 9707 2624 Bev Roberts 9391 3393Marjanne Rook 9769 7881

Naturelink EditorsSusan Funder [email protected] 0409 864 237Gill Gartlan [email protected] 5281 7569

Quicklink Editor Chloe Foster 9725 3569Social Media Convenor Amy Akers 0423 513 281

The committee meets on the second Thursday of the month at 6pm.

The Friends of RBG Cranbourne Committee

• our quarterly newsletter Naturelink• QuickLink eNews• discount rates for both Melbourne and Cranbourne Friends activities• access to Friends-only activities• 15% discount on plant sales at RBGV Cranbourne • access to Friends-only plant sales

• 10% discount at the Boon Wurrung Café• 10% discount at the Gardens Shop (Melbourne and Cranbourne). You can get an application form from the website <http:// www.rbg.vic.gov.au/support/support-groups/friends-of-rbg/cranbourne>, the Visitor Centre at RBGV Cranbourne, or Helen Morrow, Membership Secretary on 9850 9125, or at <[email protected]>.

B E N E F I T S O F M E M B E R S H I P JOIN THE FRIENDS AND RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS:

2 V O L U M E 2 2 — N U M B E R 4 — S U M M E R 2 0 1 5

The aim of the project is to explore the potential for using re-sprouting native shrubs to create resilient, long-flowering, urban plant communities, with the potential application being attractive and low-maintenance landscape displays in cultivated open space areas. Central to this project is determining a range of suitable Australian plant species that meet the following key selection criteria:

• responds well to coppicing, at intervals of between two and five years• provides a long and varied seasonal display• survives with no supplementary irrigation (beyond establishment)• thrives with limited maintenance• delivers a range of urban ecosystem services.Our involvement in the broader Woody Meadow project involves coppicing trials within the Research Garden beds

in the Australian Garden. The trials will be coordinated by Cranbourne Gardens Horticultural Technician Ahmed ‘Ash’ Ashraf as part of a Masters of Urban Horticulture (Melbourne University) under the supervision of Dr Claire Farrell and John Rayner, supported by an expert panel comprising John Arnott, Warren Worboys, Rodger Elliot and Paul Thompson.

Up to 50 species will be trialled over the next 18 months or so. The assortment of species was planted a few weeks ago and will be given time to establish prior to being coppiced at least twice over the course of the trial. The research project will measure the coppicing capacity and post-pruning regrowth, with other factors such as canopy density and flowering performance also considered. Drop by the Research Garden next time you visit the Gardens to see how things are progressing.

(Some of) What’s On at RBGV Cranbourne

For enquiries and bookings, phone 5990 2200. For information about more activities at RBGV, see the RBGV website at <www.rbg.vic.gov.au>.

Note: program is subject to cancellation on days of extreme weather.

Twilight highlights

Tuesday 12 January, 7–9pm. Families with children aged 6–12; adult participation required. $17 adult, $12.80 child/concession; bookings essential

Meet at the front gate on the corner of Botanic Drive and Ballarto Road, Cranbourne.

Journey into the bushland to discover the native animals that emerge at twilight. Keep an eye out for wombats, wallabies and possums! Bring along a torch and dress appropriately for the weather on the day.

Desert fairies and elves

Wednesday 13 & Friday 15 January, 10–11am. Meet at the Visitor Centre

Suitable for children aged 3–6 years; adult participation required. $7.40 per child.

Discover the magic of desert fairies and elves in the Australian Garden through storytelling and activities. Desert fairies and elves are encouraged to wear their best costumes.In adverse weather, the program will be modified to suit the indoors.

World Wetlands Day

Tuesday 2 February, 9am-5pm. Meet at Wylies Creek Track. Suitable for all ages. Free

Celebrate the importance of wetlands on World Wetlands Day by exploring our walking tracks along Wylies Creek Wetlands.

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From the President

Richard Clarke

Winter is the time of the year when many, including myself, depart Victoria for warmer climes. The big advantage for us this year was that for seven weeks Margaret and I were with family in Europe in beautiful warm weather. The major disadvantage, though, was that we were not able to attend the feast of Friends activities that occurred while we were away. I have received excellent feedback on them all. Margaret and I led a tour to the Wonthaggi Desalination Plant three days before our departure to Europe. In the preamble to the tour, I presented a couple of graphs (courtesy of the Bureau of Meteorology) and put the proposition that the Plant might have to be started soon. Returning to Australia seven weeks later, I see that it has become a live issue, given the low rainfall we have experienced in October. The 80 Friends who have visited the plant over the last year will now have a good understanding of what it is all about. My thanks to all those organisers of our activities who put so much work into the planning of each event, and to those who support the Friends who have attended activities.

What’s in a name?

Looking to the future, the Melbourne and Cranbourne Gardens have been rebranded as the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and a stylish new logo has been designed and adopted. This has some downstream effects on both the Cranbourne and Melbourne Friends. Our registered name is currently Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne Inc. Melbourne has a similar name, and we each have our own logo. Some changes are obviously necessary, including new names. There is a logical argument that there should be common branding that can be used in promotions and marketing and that will align itself more closely with the Gardens’ new image. Professor Tim Entwisle has addressed the committees of the Cranbourne Friends and the Melbourne Friends, and there will be ongoing discussion. As we have always done, we will keep in close contact with the Melbourne Friends, particularly with a view to the promotion of each other’s activities.

Farewell!

The AGM of the Friends will be held on 15

November, and my three-year term of office as President has ended. I cannot believe that three years have passed so quickly. Not having a horticultural background, I came to the position with fear and trepidation, so I am grateful for the unfailing support that I have received from the committee, the activities sub-committee, Friends and the Gardens Management. The last three years have seen periods of very significant change and growth and it has been a privilege to have been involved. New young committee members are ensuring our communications are keeping pace with the times. Thanks to Chloe Foster and Amy Akers for their contributions to the monthly Quicklink, Facebook and Instagram, not to mention their photography, which underpins these mediums, which are growing in popularity. Naturelink is our flagship in promoting the message as to what the Friends are all about and advertising our activities and our thanks go to editors Susan Funder and Gill Gartlan for their quiet and efficient work in its production. I would like to acknowledge the ongoing dedicated work of the regular activity group coordinators. Their contribution in raising funds for the Gardens and in maintaining and developing enthusiasm and growth within the activity groups is unseen and often goes unacknowledged, so I would like to say a special ‘thank you’ to all the coordinators for their untiring efforts.

My thanks also to Chris Russell and the Gardens Management for their support. The close relationship that exists with the Friends is an integral part of the warm culture that has developed over many, many years.

Finally my thanks to all the Friends for supporting the activities that have been instrumental in raising the funds enabling some of the more recent projects: the building of the new Growing Friends Nursery, the Elliot Centre, the possum proofing of the Gardens Nursery and the financing of the two new Gardens Explorers.

I wish Indra Kurzeme, our new President, every success for the future in the knowledge that there are strong and competent teams available for support.

Have you started putting dates in your 2016 diary? Well here are two dates you shouldn’t miss!

Sunday 7 February—Launching a new year of wonderful activities.

Meet for a BYO brunch from 10am in the Forest of Figs at the north end of the Australian Garden. Coffee and other hot or cold drinks are available at the Kiosk as well as snacks should you prefer to purchase rather than bring your own.

This is a ‘weather permitting’ event, so if it

Social days

Brunch in the Forest of Figs and Annual Lunch

is too hot do not feel obliged to attend. Keep an eye on the weather and any Fire Bans that might prevent us from gathering. So far we have had lovely mornings for this event, which is becoming a popular start to the year.

Another date to put in your diary is Saturday 7 May—Annual Lunch in the Tarnuk Room. The guest speaker is Andrew Laidlaw, Landscape Architect at Melbourne Gardens RBG Victoria. Andrew is also a regular on the ABC 774 Saturday Garden Show. Booking forms will be in the autumn edition of Naturelink.


JANUARY 10 Sunday Nuytsia flowering pilgrimage (flowering dependent, see page 5)

FEBRUARY 3 Wednesday Talk on Garlic by Penny Woodward (Illustrators, see page 11)

7 Sunday Brunch in Forest of Figs, see page 3

11 ThursdayElliot Centre Open House, see page 6

16 Tuesday Garlic workshop with Helen Burrows (Illustrators, see page 11)

20 SaturdayHanging twig basket workshop, see page 9

21 Sunday Grasses and allies workshop, see page 5

MARCH 5 Saturday – 14 Monday Australian Textile Exhibition, see page 16

6 Sunday New Members Day

10 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House, see page 6

19 Saturday – 20 Sunday Growing Friends autumn plant sale, see page 11

21 Monday – 27 Sunday National Eucalypt Day Celebration Date yet to be finalised

APRIL 13 Wednesday Discovery day—Dandenong Ranges, including Burnham Beeches, Karwarra Garden

14 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House

18 Monday Cruise around Wilsons Promontory, see page 5

MAY 7 Saturday Annual Luncheon, see page 3


15 Sunday Birds workshop

JUNE 4 SaturdayFungi workshop Possibly with fungi exhibition by Botanical Illustrators


19 Sunday Afternoon lectures, with Lesley Head and Priya Raygan

JULY 14 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House

18 Monday Melbourne urban forests and water purification

23 Saturday – 24 Sunday Growing Friends winter plant sale

31 Sunday Elisabeth Murdoch Scholarship Trip Report

AUGUST 11 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House

16 Tuesday Local gardens of Cranbourne area

21 Sunday Trees workshop—casuarinas and conifers

SEPTEMBER 3 Saturday Microbats of Cranbourne Gardens bushland & Australian Garden Joint program with RBGV Cranbourne


14 Wednesday – 27 Tuesday South Africa tour

OCTOBER 4 Tuesday Discovery day—Wonthaggi Heathlands

9 Sunday Afternoon talk by Garry Presland


22 Saturday – 23 Sunday Growing Friends spring plant sale

NOVEMBER 10 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House

25 Friday – 26 Saturday Kangaroo Family Festival with Professor Steve Hopper & Angus Stewart

Possible art exhibition by Friends Botanical Illustrators & Friends Botanical Basketmakers

27 Sunday Behinds-the-scenes tour & AGM, with guest speaker Angus Stewart

DECEMBER 8 Thursday Elliot Centre Open House

A C T I V I T I E S C A L E N D A R F O R 2 0 1 6 Please note these activities and dates in your 2016 Diary. We hope there will be no changes to the Program, but if this occurs members will be notified via Naturelink and email.


You may think that the grass is always greener on the other side, but is it really a grass? The first all-day workshop for 2016 will focus on grasses and other allied monocots (rushes, sedges, lomandras and members in the very ornamental iris family such as diplarrena, libertia and Patersonia). Even xyris, which is in a family of its own, will get a guernsey. It is shaping up to be another jam-packed day for all.

The monocots, especially those such as lomandras, are often lumped into the grasses category and we aim to help you develop the skills to distinguish them, as well as grow them in gardens and revegetation projects. These plants add a different texture to a garden, and are extremely important for habitat as well as a food source for many insects and birds. We finish the day with a walk through the Australian Garden to see many of the plants under discussion. Among

others, joining us for the workshop as speakers will be Dr Graeme Lorimer, a leader in the field of Victorian grass, and Rodger Elliot.

As we said, jam-packed! Join us. Each participant will receive a 4-plant pack.

—Amy Akers & Chloe Foster

Plant workshop

Grasses and many other monocots

Sunday 21 February 9.30am–4pm

Australian GardenAuditorium RBGVCranbourne

members $60non-members $75students $30

Here is your opportunity to discover spectacular wildflowers, botanical gardens and private gardens in South Africa while travelling with Friends. The tour is being organised by Botanica for FRBGC, and double and twin-share places are still available.

For further information or flyers by email, contact Alex Smart at <[email protected]> or on 9707 5275, or Melissa Frawley at Botanica on 8526 2138.

Tour of South Africa

14–27 September 2016

Double and twin-share places available!

Austrostipa stipoides in the foreground overlooking the Ian Potter Lake.

Photo: Chloe Foster

The Nuytsia floribunda on Howson Hill has been recognised by Heritage Victoria and the National Trust as a significant tree. In recent years FRBGC have conducted a pilgrimage to see this Western Australian Christmas Tree in flower. We are hoping for a good flowering in 2016 after the tree had a rest in 2015. Sunday 10 January 2016 has been selected as likely to be a peak time for flowering.

The procedure is to meet at 9.30am at the Visitor Centre, to walk out to inspect the flowering.

Weather warning! If the weather forecast is above 32º C or if there is a Total Fire Ban, the walk will be deferred to the next day forecast to be 32º C or less.

There is no charge for this walk, but, be warned, it may conclude with coffee and cake in the Café.

For more information, contact Alex Smart at <[email protected]> or on 9707 5275.

Annual nuytsia pilgrimage

Sunday 10 January 2016 9.30am

Meet at the Visitor Centre Walk to see Nuytsia floribunda

The positive response from members to our request for expressions of interest in this adventure enabled FRBGC to negotiate a great deal with Wildlife Coast Cruises. If we have 40 participants FRBGC will have exclusive charter of the Kasey Lee, a marvellous catamaran, which is licenced to carry 127 passengers. If we have fewer than 40 participants we may have to share the adventure with some of the general public.

You will visit one of the most beautiful natural areas in Australia, if not the world. Marine biologist Mikala Peters will provide some commentary and be available to answer your questions. John, the captain, has intimate local knowledge from years of fishing around the Prom.

Highlights include:

• a stop at Refuge Cove for a short walk, or even a swim• a cruise around the Prom Lighthouse• a cruise up and under Skull Rock

• a visit to the Kanowna Island seal colony• regular sea bird and dolphin sightings.

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be provided and are included in the price along with a small levy for FRBGC.

Wildlife Coast Cruises retail rate, $245/person; FRBGC exclusive charter, 40 or more, $205/person; FRBGC 20 to 39 participants, $220/person

(Members are asked to pay $205 on the understanding that, in the unlikely event we don’t make 40, we will request another $15).

If you are driving from Melbourne on the day please allow sufficient time for a 9am departure. If you wish to stay locally there is accommodation at Toora Lodge or Toora Tourist Park or Foster.

For more details and great pictures check out <www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au>.

Contact Alex Smart at <[email protected]> or on 9707 5275.

Discovery day

Cruise around Wilsons Promontory

Monday 18 April

Departs Port Welshpool at 9am; Returns at about 6pm (subject to weather)

Cleft Rock, or Skull Rock, viewed from the Kasey Lee. Photo: Wildlife Coast Cruises


The Elliot Centre is open to members from 1pm on the second Thursday of each month. Members are invited to bring some lunch and then at 2pm there will be an interesting and inspiring presentation with lots of time for questions and discussion.

This new activity commenced on 11 September with the topic ‘Working with fabrics’. Gwen Elliot, leader of the Botanical Fabricators, led the discussion with information about their activities and future projects. They are a very active group providing many articles to be used as gifts at our workshops and also for sale at other Friends events.

The topic for October was ‘Travellers tales’. We followed Christine Kenyon and Kathy White to Iceland. Christine and Kathy gave us lots of information and tips about touring the island. Christine and her husband Michael spent four weeks there in 2009 and drove around the island on the main road, but chose to join day tours to go inland where a 4WD vehicle was required on the rugged terrain. Kathy was in Iceland for several days last year, and as it was a short trip she chose to join the organised tours that are readily available.

Photos of both trips were played on rotation as Christine and Kathy each talked about their experiences, which inspired a lively discussion with plenty of questions about a place that, I suspect, not many members have visited.

Thanks to Christine and Kathy for entertaining us, and maybe inspiring other Friends to venture off the beaten track. Feedback from some members who attended was very positive.

Future topics for Open House

10 December—Travellers tales: living Danishly, with Margaret Clarke

11 February—Creating the Cranbourne Gardens Herbarium Collection, with Nola Foster

10 March—Travellers tales: with a travelling friend or Soils ain’t soils—how to get your soils suitable for good growth, with Rodger Elliot

The event is free and afternoon refreshments are supplied.

Members are also able to consult the Friends Reference Library during these times.

Open House at the Elliot Centre

2nd Thursday of each month (except January)

Recent discovery dayBayside gardens

This was another popular activity for the Friends. Our leader was Jill Burness, and as usual Jill had everything superbly organised so that the day was extremely interesting and filled with variety.

We met in Beaumaris at 9.45am and our first visit to the garden of John Humphris really set the tone for the day. John’s garden featured a wide range of Australian plants in a bushland-style landscape which included some excellent features involving recycled materials. From the upper storey of the house

we were able to look one way across the bay, then turn around and see the television towers at Mt Dandenong.

The second garden we visited was that of Fiona and Peter McCormack in Bodley Street, where we experienced a very different and more formal garden designed by Rick Eckersley. Again there were both native and introduced plants, and cameras clicked wildly.

It was now just after noon, so we headed to Rickett’s Point for lunch in the carpark adjacent to the Tea

House. A short walk along the foreshore allowed us to see some of the dune restoration work being undertaken by the Bayside Council.

From here we drove to the Tramway Parade area and Jill told us of a little of the history of Beaumaris, and how Tramway Parade came to have its name.

We visited one garden in Tramway Parade and another a short walk away in Staynor Street. Both are very modern multi-storey residences, with appropriately landscaped gardens which include a selection of Australian native species.

The final garden for the day was at the home of landscape designers Karyn and Steve Wallbrink. This was certainly the ‘icing on the cake’ for most of our group. The Wallbrinks have a young family and the garden was filled with fascinating nooks and crannies that any child (or older person) would love.

Several of the homes visited are in now highly sought-after areas of Beaumaris. It was pointed out to us that it has not always been the way. Prior to World War II many of the roads were unsealed tracks and the general feeling was that no one would want to live in the dense tea-tree scrub areas. The native vegetation supported large numbers of birds, marsupials, reptiles and insects.

We felt very privileged to be invited into the gardens and lives of the people visited during this Discovery Day, and now have a much richer understanding of the Beaumaris Peninsula and this area of Port Phillip Bay.

Jill Burness explaining the planting of a garden in Tramway Parade, Beaumaris.

Poolside planting and wall decoration at Humphris Garden.


From the bushland

Wallabies

The wallabies on site at the RBGV in Cranbourne are swamp or black wallabies (Wallabia bicolor), the ‘bicolour’ referring to the strong difference in colour between the back, feet and tail fur, which is dark brown to black (rather than grey), and the belly and chest fur which is yellow to reddish orange. They usually have a light stripe on the cheek and often a white tip on tail.

The swamp wallaby conservation status is listed as of Least Concern and they are relatively common along the east coast and around south-western Victoria. However, populations in or near urban areas are often threatened by high levels of habitat loss and fragmentation, introduced predators and collisions with vehicles.

Swamp wallaby biology

Swamp wallabies are the sole remaining member of the genus wallabia. They are quite distinct from other macropods (the ‘kangaroo and wallaby’ family) in a number of crucial respects:

• They have fewer chromosomes.

• Males and females have different numbers of chromosomes.

• They move differently from other wallabies, carrying their head low and the tail straight out.

• They can breed continuously throughout the year (i.e. breeding is not seasonal) so they have a potentially high reproduction rate.

The shape of the molar teeth also differs from other wallabies and kangaroos, reflecting a generalist diet consisting of a wide range of food types—a mix of forbs, ferns, shrubs, grasses, sedges, rushes and fungi (including the underground truffle fungi)—in roughly similar proportions. They often use their reduced forelimbs to manipulate their food. You can sometimes see them holding a branch as they munch.

Their common name suggests that these wallabies are restricted to swampy areas, but while they are often associated with moist patches of vegetation, they are not specific in their habitat preference as long as there is some dense cover to shelter in.

At home at Cranbourne

Swamp wallabies are typically solitary so are usually seen alone or with young at foot, though they do have overlapping home ranges and will often be seen in groups when feeding. Here at Cranbourne they typically shelter in the densely vegetated areas during the day and emerge in the late afternoon to feed on the grasslands along Wylies Creek Track. You are most likely to see them either first thing in the morning or late afternoon, especially during winter. They also appear to be more active on dull, rainy days when they

can often be seen out during the day. I’m not sure whether this is because the rain keeps the walkers away and they are not disturbed or they actually like the rain!

There are few predators on site and a low risk of being struck by a car, so some of the Cranbourne wallabies are probably quite old—they can live as long as 15 years in the wild. And like us, they become greyer with age. We have had reports in the past of an albino wallaby and also, after a prescribed burn, of a wallaby covered in ash. This turned out to be one of our elderly (grey) wallabies.

While normally fairly shy in nature some of the wallabies on site have become more used to people and don’t hop off until you get quite close. Some have become used to the way things work at the Gardens and have become opportunistic illegal visitors to the Depot area and into the Australian Garden where they have at times performed some unauthorised pruning! Increasingly elaborate methods have been developed to deter them—for example, a new, taller automatic exit gate at the Visitor Centre, as they were simply hopping over the previous one in the late afternoon.

Wallaby tracks in sand are quite distinctive. I once had a visitor insist that we had emus on site after having seen wallaby hind footprints in the sand. Wallaby scats have also been mistaken for wombat scats. Like wombats, they are usually in groups of 4–8 pellets but are more rounded than the typical cube-shaped wombat scat that is also often on an elevated spot. If you break it open, a wombat scat is also of finer texture (being mainly a grass eater) than the wallaby scat, which is likely to include coarse material as well as grass.

Increasing population

The wallaby population at the RBGV Cranbourne has been monitored since 2001 using a range of survey techniques. Back then only a handful of animals lived on site and the species was rarely seen by staff or visitors. We estimate the population here has increased more than twenty-fold since 2001 and is now commonly encountered across the site. The growth in the population over the past decade is likely due to a combination of factors including a reduction in predation by foxes, reduced emigration due to the predator fence surrounding the site and increased survival resulting from the breaking of the millennium drought in 2010. Similar increases in wallaby numbers have been seen at many other sites across Australia, but in many ways the Cranbourne Gardens is now a ‘perfect’ site for the species.

While wildlife populations naturally fluctuate through time, the potential impact of an increase in wallaby browsing on vegetation in some parts of the RBGV Cranbourne Conservation Zone is of concern. Over-

Swamp wallaby in late afternoon light. Photo: Mary Thackeray

Female swamp wallaby with young at foot

Swamp wallaby hopping across the Red Sand Garden showing the typical movement with head down and tail straight out. Photo: Luke Saffigna


browsing can lead to changes in habitat structure and species composition and may pose a threat to other important species. Browsing impacts are being closely monitored by Cranbourne Gardens staff and actions are being taken to mitigate the increase in wallaby numbers. However, it must be acknowledged that herbivore browsing and grazing are natural ecological processes that could be necessary for the long-term

health of our bushland. We have already seen that the increase in wallaby numbers may have had some positive effects, such as the control of some shrubs and exotic pest species.

Many thanks to Dr Terry Coates and Warren Worboys for their input and assistance.

—Mary Thackeray

Swamp wallaby feeding. Photo: Luke Saffigna

The foliage of this beautiful bunya pine, Araucaria bidwillii, clothes the trunk to ground level.

An imposing structural and ornamental trunk of Agathis robusta. Photos: David Williams

Did you know that lichen is the result of a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria? Photo: Amy Akers

Workshop

Fabulous fungi!

Saturday 4 June 9.30am–4.00pm

Australian Garden Auditorium RBGV Cranbourne

members $60 non-members $75 students $30

We are very excited to announce that we will be holding a workshop next year that is all about the fabulous world of fungi!

Proposed topics will include:

• an overview of fungi

• plant–fungi relationships, including mycorrhizal fungi

• lichen – a fascinating joint relationship of fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria

• animal–fungi relationships

• Victorian fungi

• a walk around the bushland to forage for some fascinating fungi!

Stay tuned for your next issue of Naturelink to find out more.

—Amy Akers

Recent discovery day

Burnley Gardens

On a dismal looking day, a group from Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne were given an insight into this historical site in Richmond. Most of us had not visited before. We were split into two groups and expert guides from the Friends of Burnley Gardens took us around. But first the history.

The land (9.25 hectares) was originally granted to the Horticultural Society of Victoria in 1860 ‘to promote botanical and horticultural Science’ and the gardens were officially opened in January 1863. In 1891 The Department of Agriculture took over responsibility and established Australia’s first School of Horticulture. Burnley Gardens formally became part of the University of Melbourne in 1997. In December 2003, the Burnley site was added to the Heritage Register of Victoria, with special mention of seven of its trees and three of its buildings.On our tour we visited:• The Rain Water Garden—a very small area near the reception and main administration building with appropriate soil, and plants surviving from rainwater runoff.• The Ellis Stones Garden—lost/hidden for many years and then rediscovered with its large granite rocks, stepped planting and wandering pathway, which was rejuvenated voluntarily by the very keen and knowledgeable Australian plantswoman Kath Deery.

• The Bull Paddock—at one time used as a carpark and then very sensibly returned to natural conditions when negative impacts were observed.

• The Lily Ponds exquisitely set in the extensive lawn area with the adjacent Garden Shelter (1911—Heritage listed)

• The Sugar Gum Table—the original heritage-listed tree had to be removed in 2008 due to persistent limb drop and can comfortably seat 20.

• The Australian Rainforest Garden—the inspiration of Phil Tulk cleverly connects the European Garden to the north with the Australian Garden to the south.

• Native Garden Ponds—this man-made area was designed and constructed in 1991 by Rob Boyle. The nature-like oasis is home to several species of frogs, native quail and red-rumped parrots.

• The Grasslands—the inspiration for this area came to James Hitchmough from the Western Plains of Victoria. Grasses and colourful wildflowers permeate this area.

There are so many other areas to visit that a day should be allocated along with a picnic lunch in order to fully appreciate the beauty of this hidden gem.

—David Williams

R E G U L A R M O N T H LY A C T I V I T I E SThe Friends RBG Cranbourne run several regular monthly activities, which are described below. If you are interested in participating in any of these activities, even on an irregular basis, please ring or email the contact person, or just turn up. Don’t worry if you don’t have specifi c skills, you will learn on the job, and you will be made most welcome!


Herbarium Collectors

1st Monday 9am–2pmElliot CentreContactNola Foster 9583 5731

We fi nd, photograph and collect specimens of the indigenous plants in the RBGV Cranbourne at each stage of their development and ensure that relevant details—locations, appearance, the substrate they are found on, and habitat—are recorded. These specimens are then dried and mounted for herbarium collections at the RBG Cranbourne, and the National Herbarium at the RBGV Melbourne.

It has been rather quiet for the Herbarium Collectors this last quarter as I was overseas for three months, the weather was extremely bad, and the few plants that did appear we had already collected. So with great delight all nine members gathered for our October collection day.

Orchids had been spotted—the prize of

our collecting. We were all ready to set out with cameras, fi eld note-book, GPS, presses, digger, secateurs, reference guides etc. Then came the announcement: ‘It is a high risk fi re day, you cannot go out to the bushland’. So, we hunted near the Gardens Depot, fi nding one new plant, Poranthera microphylla, adding another, Goodenia geniculata, which was previously collected in 2002, and taking all four plants of the introduced English or lawn daisy, Bellis perennis, growing in the ditch next to the visitors carpark. Fingers crossed for next month!

Yes, we love our new Herbarium space and are now able to really increase work on the collection.

Friends in Focus

2nd Saturday Jan–Mar, 9.30–11.30am April–Sept, 2–4pm Oct–Dec, 9.30–11.30am

Elliot Centre

We get together to have fun and learn about photography, take photos and enhance and practise our skills in a friendly, social and non-judgmental environment. We range from ‘snappers’ to serious photographers. Our starting times vary with daylight saving to give the best lighting conditions for taking photographs.

Friends in Focus has taken two walks into the bushland area of the Cranbourne Gardens during recent morning meetings. This is an often-overlooked area of the Gardens and contains delights not obvious from within the Australia Garden.

One walk started from the carpark along

Wylies Creek Track past the Woodlands Picnic Area, the Weather Station, Elisabeth Murdoch Pavilion, then via the Lake Track and Trig Track past Perched Swamp and Trig Point Lookout back to the carpark. We shared the area with wallabies, aquatic bird life, plants, caterpillars and ants. Also, enjoyed nature’s gift of rain.

Our next outing will be into the Wetlands Walk or Possum Gully Track.

For more information, contact James McKee at < [email protected]> or on 9707 2624 or 0411 102 107

Botanical Basketmakers

3rd Saturday10am–2pmElliot Centre

Contact Lynn Lochrie 0437 759 610 [email protected]

We use native plant materials to create useful or sculptural objects. Our skill levels range from novice to experienced, and we work on our own projects, whilst sharing techniques and ideas, and discussing useful plants. Do come and join us. We welcome all newcomers.

On Saturday 20 February, Pat Dale, a well-known basketmaker and author, will be giving a ‘hanging twig basket’ workshop. The cost is $50 for Friends members, and numbers are limited to ten participants. Only a few places are left so please book early if you would like to join us, by ringing or emailing Lynn Lochrie.

Other upcoming activities include a foraging day in January, a display and talk in the Elliot Centre on 14 April, and a Garden ‘walk and talk’ in May.

Basketry Group with their works in progress. Photo: Juanita Carrington

If you have some kangaroo paw growing, and are happy to harvest some long green leaves for the group to make some display items for an upcoming event, please contact Lynn Lochrie.

We work with fabric crafts (hand sewing, machine sewing and embroidery) using materials or designs featuring and highlighting the beauty of Australian native plants. We also host exhibitions and provide items for prizes and gifts for Friends activities.

See page 16 for information about the Australian Textile Exhibition, 2016.

For more information, contact Gwen Elliot on 8774 2483

Botanical Fabricators

2nd Tuesday 10amElliot Centre


Growing Friends

3rd Wednesday Every Thursday

Growing Friends Nursery

ContactsMarjanne Rook 9769 7881 [email protected]

Don Dower 9736 2309 0401 611 173 [email protected]

The Growing Friends Nursery is open to members of the Friends every Thursday from 10.00 to 2.30 or later by arrangement—check with Marjanne.

We propagate a great variety of Australian native plants that have been sourced from the Gardens, and have great fun doing it. The plants are used for educational purposes as giveaways, and for raising funds for selected projects for the Gardens.

Central Australia

Recently I spent time exploring Central Australia—we had a marvellous trip, with astounding scenery. There’s not enough room in this issue to describe much, but I have to mention Acacia peuce (pine-like) or waddy-wood tree. It grows to a height of 15–17 metres with short horizontal braches with needle-like phyllodes and can live up to 700 years. The juvenile tree has a conifer-like form and may take 35 years to reach 1 metre in height. At a height of about 4 metres it starts branching out and looks like a different tree (see photo). Just extraordinary!

A sunny spring plant sale

Two lovely, busy plant-sale days were held at the Ian Potter Lake precinct at the Cranbourne Gardens, with many tired workers at closing time on Sunday. The takings for this sale were just over $12,500, which includes those from the previous Wednesday, when members shopped at the Growing Friends nursery.

Thank you to all the volunteers who contributed in various ways. Also thank you to the members who support the Growing Friends by buying our plants. All in all, a most successful weekend. See the photo on p. 16.

Special plants

Although we won’t be growing the waddy-wood tree at the nursery, we are growing some special plants, some of which should

be ready for the autumn plant sale in March. These will include a selection of acacia and smaller eucalyptus suitable for the home garden. We are also growing Araucaria heterophylla, Norfolk Island pine. With permission I collected seed while on the Friends most fabulous Lord Howe Island tour and we are growing it in the nursery, also with permission. Right now they are the cutest little trees and if they survive and form nicely, they will be on sale in autumn. It is a big tree and should not be grown in the home garden, but it can be grown as a pot-plant and used as a Christmas tree.

Waiting list

The Growing Friends has been growing since we moved to our new location and often we have 18–25 people in any one week. In order not to get too crowded when we need to work inside due to the weather, we have decided to keep a waiting list, for the time being, should anyone else wish to join.

Special orders

Any wishes? Perhaps you would like a plant you have seen in the Gardens or multiple plants for a large area? If so, please contact us by email or phone with your request and we shall endeavour to grow them or may even have them in stock. Contact details are on this page.

A unique acacia, Acacia peuce, or waddy-wood tree

Seed CollectorsWe meet on an ad hoc basis

ContactRichenda Harrison 9885 2744 0438 852 744 [email protected]

We gather and process seed for the RBGV Cranbourne seed stock. The seed collected is used by the Growing Friends Nursery and by the Gardens for regeneration of the bushland.

Our meetings are irregular, as the peak time for the group is November to March. Most of the 2–3 hour sessions are on Thursdays, and involve a range of activities: reconnaissance, collection and processing, and documentation.

We were very sorry to lose Cali Salzmann after many years of leading the group, but of course we congratulate her on her new position at Barung Landcare near Maleny, Qld, knowing it brings her much closer to her gorgeous little grandson. She has been a marvellous teacher and professional mentor for us all and we will miss the laughter and fun we had as we meandered or bumped along bush tracks together. We wish her every good wish for her new life.

After the normal long break between the

end of the season in March this year and the start of the new one this October, we arranged to meet our new leader, Di Clark, Nursery Coordinator, to talk about possible roles the group may take on. She told us about planting a seed orchard in some of the research beds, organisational jobs such as checking through the seed bank, collecting seeds and other work that will become apparent as time goes on.

As Di had brought over some tubestock we had great fun planting them in the raised beds amidst much laughter and even some serious discussion! These were Sphaerolobium vimineum, Burchardia umbellata, Stackhousia viminea, Bossiaea prostrata and Thysanotus tuberosus. A great start !

We enjoyed seeing each other again and are looking forward to learning new skills as we take on a wider variety of work under Di’s baton.


Botanical Illustrators1st and 3rd Wednesday10am–3pm

Elliot Centre

Contact Margaret Holloway 0438 985 382 [email protected]

Botanical Illustrators events

We are a small, friendly group of artists of varying experience, who meet to paint and draw together (without tuition). This allows us to share ideas, information and give each other encouragement and support. We hold exhibitions at various galleries.

The Botanical Illustrators group has been enjoying working in the comfort and warmth of the Elliot Centre—though not too warm as to cause the specimens to droop! Each artist has been working on their own subject

The following events are open to members and non-members alike. They will be held at the Elliot Centre at RBGV Cranbourne. For bookings or further information about either of these events contact Margaret Holloway on 0438 985 382 or at <[email protected]>.

Talk on ‘Garlic’, by Penny Woodward

Wednesday 3 February 10.30am – 12 noon members $6; non-members $10

Penny Woodward has been growing, writing about and photographing edible plants for more than 30 years. After seven books and countless articles and talks, her passion for her subject is undiminished. Her knowledge is extensive and in this talk she will share her enthusiasm for garlic.

Organic gardening and sustainable living are her passion, along with growing and using edible and useful

plants, herbs, vegetables and fruit. She enjoys communicating with gardeners to share her passion. She has written her books, two of which have won awards, for Australian conditions. More information about Penny and her work can easily be found on the internet.

This will be a most informative and interesting talk and all members and Friends are welcome to attend.

and some are continuing to fi nish works started in the recent workshops. The group provides an encouraging atmosphere for artists of a wide range of experience with the sharing of information and ideas. Joining the group sets aside time to paint which, too often, gets pushed aside by our everyday activities. Anyone interested in joining our group is welcome to visit us to see if it would be suitable for them. See below for an interesting talk and workshop coming up.

Garlic workshop, with Helen Burrows

Tuesday 16 February 10am–3pm members $80; non-members $105

This one-day workshop will involve painting from a fresh garlic specimen. Garlic is a wonderful subject to paint. Even though it is quite pale, it has volume and beautiful refl ected light, which Helen will expertly guide us through. It is a rewarding exercise that can be repeated time and time again whilst learning more each time, and it helps tackle a multitude of other subjects. This workshop will be suitable for beginners and advanced students.

A professional graphic designer, Helen has worked in both secondary and tertiary sectors, teaching art and lecturing in design and graphic communications, and her pedagogical theory enables her to deliver instructional strategies that create the best learning experiences for both beginners and advanced students.

Her botanical water-colour work is represented in numerous important public collections around the world, including Kew Gardens. It is also held in galleries and private collections throughout Australia and overseas, and she has completed three volumes of camellias in limited editions. Her work has also been used in various publications. More information and Helen’s fantastic work can be found at <burrowsbotanicals.org>.

Helen Burrows working on her painting.

Growing Friends autumn plant sale Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March

10.00am–4.00pm

RBGV Cranbourne, follow signs in carpark

The nursery is open to all members every Thursday from 10.00am to 2.00pm.

Plant list is available 1–2 weeks before the sale. See website <http://www.rbgfriendscranbourne.org.au>.

CASH or CHEQUE ONLY15% discount for members

Drawing of Rhododendron viriosum by John Armstrong


Recent plant genus workshop

Callistemons and melaleucas

Callistemons and melaleucas are very closely allied members of the plant family Myrtaceae, although there is some dispute among botanists about how they are related.

Research

Dr Frank Udovicic, Manager of Plant Sciences at the National Herbarium of Victoria, RBGV, told us about some research he and a team had undertaken. Using DNA technology as well as studying plant morphology, they showed that the Callistemon genus was valid, while it was Melaleuca and some allied genera that needed further botanical scrutiny. A botanist from Canberra initially accepted this research as valid, but later reverted to his original thesis that Callistemon should be transferred to the genus Melaleuca and published all of the species as Melaleucas!

Design

Barrie Gallacher, landscape architect and Garden Ambassador at Cranbourne, then talked about designing with callistemons and melaleucas and their many valuable attributes as landscaping plants. They are mostly very adaptable to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. Taller species and cultivars are useful for screening. Fine-leaved varieties create the perception of more space (large-leaved varieties, however, can make a garden feel too small and are better used as feature trees in small gardens). Some recent cultivars have been selected for their upright growth habit and are valuable for use in small spaces, now becoming very common in suburbia. As these cultivars are new, they may grow much bigger than advertised. Only time will tell!

Cultivation

Rodger Elliot concentrated on the cultivation of these plants. He stressed their adaptability (most species from the southern half of Australia can be cultivated in Victoria and some from northern areas will also grow well if given specific conditions). To select suitable species, it is important to know the pH of your soil. He showed photos of

reliable dwarf, medium and tall plants in every colour (except blue!), as well as those that tolerate alkalinity and waterlogging. Most species and cultivars respond well to pruning, making them excellent for hedging. Some of the taller members tolerate coppicing to rejuvenate plants and Rodger challenged participants to try it, with Callistemon citrinus and Melaleuca ericifolia. Pests and diseases are fairly minimal with callistemons and melaleucas, but the dreaded myrtle rust is a major problem. Some species can be weedy.

Essential oils

Dr Charles Young from Latrobe University, also a Garden Ambassador at Cranbourne, took us through the essential oils harvested from melaleucas: Melaleuca alternifolia (tea-tree oil, renowned for its excellent antiseptic properties), M. cajuputi (cajeput or cajuput oil) and M. quinquenervia (niaouli oil). He detailed how tea-tree oil (Australia’s second largest horticultural industry) is tested to meet international and Australian standards and how the ratios of its chemical components vary between different brands. He also explained how oil composition can vary between different populations of M. alternifolia, as well as the growth stage of the tree the oil is taken from. He told us how oils are extracted and about their medicinal value.

Lots of other uses!

Friends member John Thompson enlightened us on his subject of timber, honey, dyes, art and more. Melaleucas have been known of for a while—the first was collected in Indonesia during the mid- to late-17th century and named Arbor alba (now known as M. leucadendra). William Dampier collected what is now known as M. cardiophylla in 1699 in WA. (Linnaeus chose the name ‘melaleuca’ in 1767.) Callistemon citrinus was the first collection of that genus by Banks & Solander at Botany Bay in 1770. Some of the eastern melaleucas were cultivated by 1793 and were used by botanists to describe and name species such as M. thymifolia. In 1795 Joseph Banks assembled a collection of 500 plants for Catherine II of Russia, which included C. citrinus. During 1799–1815 Josephine Bonaparte grew a number of callistemons and melaleucas at Malmaison. From 1850 Australian gardeners were offered a very limited selection of callistemons and melaleucas, but now there is a huge range of plants available. Indigenous people used plants of these genera for shelter, timber and as a food source. Many species produce ample nectar that ends up in honey jars. The foliage can be used to dye fabric, and colours vary depending on which mordant is used. Callistemons and melaleucas have featured in a range of Australian arts and crafts.

Following a Q&A session a number of us went to the Growing Friends Nursery where we sowed a selection of species. We were shown the ‘bog method’ of seed germination, which is very applicable for the fine seed of many Myrtaceae species, and cutting propagation techniques.

After a lengthy day, with heads full of information and seedling trays in hand, people headed home! Evaluation sheets completed by participants rated this workshop very highly!

Melaleuca longistaminea with beautiful jewell beetle. Photo: Rodger Elliot


Recent workshop

Frondly ferns & captivating cycads

Recent tour

Little Desert

Ferns and cycads are renowned for their decorative ‘fronds’. Both vascular plants, common in the Mesozoic era, they have since undergone widespread extinction. Ferns and cycads are unrelated, however, and I found it interesting to compare and contrast them. Chloe Foster introduced us to eight speakers who explained and illustrated them from different perspectives.

Ferns

Ferns arose about 416 mya. They are non-flowering and reproduce by spores. In the mid-Cretaceous period, they were largely displaced by flowering plants, which created niches that enabled new fern groups to evolve.

Integrated studies of the life cycle, morphology, anatomy and molecular analysis of ferns is revealing much about the past and present. For instance, club mosses and selaginella, traditionally known as ‘fern allies’, are actually in a separate group and less closely related to ferns than they are to seed plants.

There are no fern species endemic to Victoria. Our local (Gippsland) king fern (Todea barbara), with a lineage of 250 million years, grows naturally in South Africa, South East Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand.

Cycads

Cycads, one of five surviving groups of seed plants, arose approximately 318 mya and

occur mostly in the southern hemisphere. Their cones are modified leaves and so are unrelated to conifer cones, which are modified stem structures. Most Australian species are endemic and very slow growing. Large specimens may be some of the oldest living plants on earth.

Cycad diversity, beauty and unique features have unfortunately led to a thriving illegal trade that threatens their survival. They’re dioecious (unisexual) and rely on very specific and intricate insect relationships for pollination.

Because of their distinctive coralloid roots and symbiotic relationship with free-living cyanobacteria, cycads are nitrogen fixers. Fire can stimulate coralloid roots, leaf and seed production, but when conditions are unfavorable, the plants may become dormant.

Cycad toxins are dangerous for humans and domestic animals and their seeds required extensive preparation before being used as food by the Aborigines. Native animals seem immune, and nibbling by wallabies has triggered germination of Macrozamia communis in the Australian Garden.

Thank you to all the excellent presenters for a fascinating day and to the RBGV Cranbourne nursery for baby ferns and cycads to grow at home.

—Kate Walsh

On this four-day tour 53 enthusiastic Friends were led by Maree and Graham Goods, experienced and trusted plant guides, and Maree’s brother, Ian Morgan, who provided the expertise on the birds of the area. The three are co-authors of Plants and birds of the Little Desert.

Day 1—En route

A cold first morning didn’t lessen the enthusiasm of the travellers. Early arrivals at Melton Botanic Garden (MBG) were greeted by Friends of MBG volunteers with tea and coffee. The nursery gates were thrown open for inspection and sales. FMBG president John Bentley welcomed us, then gave a brief history and overall description of the garden. The Friends group was formed in September 2003 and the garden is still under development. We were then divided into three groups for separate tours. The ‘general overview’ tour started with the NE Eucalyptus Arboretum near the nursery. Notable eucalypts from the tour included: Eucalyptus albopurpurea, E. burdettiana, E. cernua (syn. E. nutans), E. crucis, E. desmondensis, E. forrestiana, E. macrocarpa, E. orbifolia, E. stoatei, E. ‘Torwood’, E. websteriana and E. woodwardii. Morning tea

with Anzac biscuits and Swiss-roll cake was very welcome.

We arrived at Glenda and Greg Lewin’s ‘Grannes’ garden after two hours of uneventful travel. A long entry drive off the Stawell–Pomonal Road was framed by indigenous trees and shrubs. A wrought iron gateway opened into a spectacular garden oasis; the first view revealed was of a delightful pair of dancing brolgas with wings outstretched on the side of a dam—these were skilfully made from chicken wire. After lunch we toured the garden under the leadership of Neil Marriott. Neil introduced Alex, who is responsible for planting and maintaining the garden along with two assistants. Notable plants included Prostanthera aspalathoides, Acacia bifaria (small-leaved version of A. glaucoptera), Hakea victoria, Eucalyptus sepulcralis, E. rhodantha and Xanthorrhea australis.

Day 2 & 3—Little Desert

On Sunday we were addressed by Graham, with advice on our first day of 4-wheel-driving in sand of The Little Desert. A convoy of 14 vehicles headed towards Dahlenburg’s Mill Track where we travelled through an area that had been burnt by wildfire in

Male cone of Cycas platyphylla from west of Herberton, Qld


January 2015. At our first stop we saw a rare greenhood orchid, Pterostylis prasina and a white form of flame heath. Baeckea crassifolia, and Hibbertia virgata were flowering too. There were many low-growing plants in the white sandy soil. Other plants we saw included the rare Eucalyptus sabulosa, flowering Drosera aberrans and a beautiful Boronia pilosa subs. paravidaemonis.

In the afternoon we continued to explore the beauties of the Little Desert and everyone was very excited, especially Graham and Maree, when we came across a

flowering Eucalyptus calycogona, which had not been collected before. If we had not been seeking Dodonaea bursariifolia, we may not have had cause to rejoice.

Next morning as we turned west on to Redgum Track the sun emerged to warm us. In the burnt area, we saw considerable green growth on the xanthorrhoeas, as well as many small species emerging from blackened soil, surrounded by blackened sticks, such as goodenias, correas and droseras in flower. People were in awe of this magical regrowth and the resilience of many Australian plants to recover after fire. Maree told us that only four weeks after the fire the xanthorrhoeas had put on 200cm of growth.

Today’s tracks were somewhat firmer than those we experienced yesterday—a relief! Red Gum Swamp was used as a sheep wash in grazing times, to clean the sheep before shearing. Graeme said a crater further on had a porous sub-strata which was wet enough to sustain the surrounding red gums.

Passing a stand of silky tea tree (Leptospermum myrsinoides) we saw yellow mounds made by the silky desert mouse that feeds on the fruit of the tea tree. There were many other highlights, including the endangered

Westringia crassifolia. Then the ‘birdos’ stayed at Broughton’s Waterhole while the ‘plantos’ climbed a hill named Mt Turner, much to Ray Turner’s pleasure. The day was capped off by spending time at an active mallee fowl nest minus the fowl!

Day 4—The Mallee

Tuesday saw us back on made roads as we headed to Mali Dunes, the property of Bernie Fox and Sue Hayman-Fox on the southern boundary of the Big Desert. They are aiming to restore the Mallee Heathland vegetation to pre-white development of the land (using information in the relevant EVC) which occurred around 1950s. They also wanted to encourage the return of the mallee fowl. Trust for Nature has a covenant on the 1552 acres of land apart from 3.5 ha for domestic use. Bernie and Sue are heavily involved in mallee fowl preservation and are members of the Victorian Mallee Fowl Recovery Group. The habitat restoration has been successful with mallee fowl returning to breed on the land.

Bernie introduced us to the design concepts of the Terradome house, prior to giving a presentation on the construction of the house. We also went up onto the dome roof with Sue and walked over the very wide home dune to the clay area before turning back at Kanga Kommon.

We made our own way back to Little Desert Lodge with time to explore the property before the daylight disappeared. Many us took to the walking tracks, explored around Whimpey’s Waterhole and watched kangaroos and of course talked to George the emu.

Day 5—Homeward bound

On Wednesday morning we started on our long journey home. First stop was at the startling and eclectic garden of Leonne and Peter Gebert a little north-east of Jeparit. We were greeted by a fabulous morning tea, but it was not long before people were ‘oohing an aahing’ at the fantastic collection of plants and the many fascinating sculptural elements (some of which originated from the local tip!) of this marvellous garden. Acacias, eremophilas, grevilleas, hakeas , eucalypts and sennas (cassias) were among the highlights. Many of them were so vigorous and happy in such an environment.

We then headed for the Wildlife Art Museum of Australia site between Pomonal and Halls Gap where we were taken on a tour of the site by Neil Marriott and Neil Macumber who described the dream of what promises to be a very significant Gallery and Garden of Australian plants. We are looking forward to their plans eventuating for this grand venture.

We then headed home after an exhilarating tour! A great time was had by all according to the Tour Journal, written by a number of participants, from which this review is taken.

This report was compiled from notes and comments provided by the following tour participants: Sue Betheras, Judith Cooke, Chloe Foster, Sue Galbally, Barrie Gallacher, Gwen Elliot, Rodger Elliot, Judy Mallinson and Christine van Schyndel.

Friends at Leonne & Peter Gebert’s garden near Jeparit with Peter explaining how they look after their fascinating ‘dry area garden’.

It looks as this group has been enjoying something on their 4WD excursion in the Little Desert. Photo: Chloe Foster (by remote control!)

Membership update

Helen Morrow

Please contact me if you have any queries on 9850 9125 or at <[email protected]>.

Recent discovery day

Wonthaggi Desalination Plant

A final reminder to members who have not paid fees for this year, you will find a renewal subscription form in the newsletter. We hope you will continue supporting the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne through the Friends and hope to hear from you soon.

Interest in the Australian Garden and the wonderful bushland continues to attract members: this quarter 35 new members joined the Friends, and we look forward to meeting all members at the Elliot Centre ‘Open House’ on the 2nd Thursday of each month.

Many members choose to receive their copy of Naturelink by email instead receiving a hard copy by post. If you would like to

receive your copy by email please contact me on <[email protected]>.

We welcome the following new members:

Ian & Judi Adams, Vinco & Karen Anticevic, Anne Bain, Ann Barnes, Amanda Begg, Michael Bremner, Jane Clark, John & Kaye Durrant, Kerrie Fildes, Matthew Gabbett, Catriona Gladman, Graham & Maree Goods, Mirini Lang, Anne Langmaid, Paul & Barbara Matthews, Phyll McPherson, Harold & Tina Oataway, Roslyn Parminter, Libby & Michael Proud, Tony Quinlan, Judith Rawlings, Cameron Rocke, Mark Russo, Vivian Scarpari, Allan Schache, Steven Tiberi, Bill Varney, David Webster.

This second visit to the Desal Plant was as successful as the first. The weather was kind—a little cool but not too much wind (if it had been any stronger we would not have been allowed on the roof). The relatively easy access to the roof area was the highlight for most. There was great interest in the vast area of ‘roof garden’, the healthy condition of the plants that are all indigenous to the area. It was a fascinating day. As I write this, predictions of further drought conditions ahead of us could have the Desal Plant put into full operation instead of being on standby.

Many people will be unaware that the attractively landscaped area around the plant is now well established and is open to the public. Approaching the entrance to the Plant and surrounding area, one needs to follow the signage as there is virtually no sign of the large Desal Plant, such is the design of the buildings, nestling amongst the sand dunes.

Thanks are due to Elizabeth Schwarz and the staff at the Desal Plant for the very professional tour ensuring our safety at all times.

—Margaret Clarke


Recent lecture

Where to for climate change? Professor David Karoly

Professor David Karoly requested that the lecture be made available to the public. A video of the presentation can be found on the Friends website at <www.rbgfriendscranbourne.org.au>.

Professor David Karoly spoke of the recent rapid changes in climate compared to the long-term changes that have taken place over the past 800,000 years, for which we have very good ice records. They show that from about 1900, the change has accelerated and exceeded the mean many times over.

Variations from year to year have many causes, including the rate at which plant material takes up carbon dioxide during its growth. How the plant grows, in particular crops, also depends on rainfall. Obviously, the higher the rainfall, the greater the growth rate, hence the greater absorption of carbon dioxide and vice versa.

So, how do we know that some of the changes are anthropogenic? By developing

models that demonstrate the levels of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions that would have occurred if the

Source: Climate Commission

atmosphere had changed naturally without any influence from man and comparing them to recorded emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases. The differences are so stark that what was cause for concern is now a clear indication that we need urgent change to our emissions strategy. We have already used 65% of our carbon budget compatible with the goal of an increase of 2° C in global warming.

What measures are available to reduce the emissions? We can develop the following:• more efficient use of energy• greater use of low-carbon and no-carbon energy• improved carbon sinks• lifestyle and behavourial changes.

The majority of these measures are already being deployed, but require a greater intensity and activity now!

In conclusion:• Human influence on the climate system is clear.• The more we disrupt our climate, the more we risk severe, pervasive and irreversible impacts.• We have the means to limit climate change and build a more prosperous, sustainable future.

—Tim Morrow


Far right:‘Aussie Swag Quilt’ designed by Leesa Chandler, which is first prize in the raffle being held over the period of Australian Textile Exhibition. Photo: Leesa Chandler

The early birds were picking out the bargains at the Growing Friends spring plant sale.

Hibbertia furfuracea, one of the many beautiful hibbertias that you may see on the tour.

The 2016 Fabric Crafts & Quilting Exhibition will again be co-ordinated by Leesa Chandler from Chandlers Cottage, and promises to be one of the highlights of the 2016 Activity Calendar at Cranbourne. There will be exhibits of patchwork, quilts and other items by some of Australia’s leading quilting and textile experts. You will be able to purchase some of the magnificent Australian plant fabrics from the ‘Under the Australian Sun’ range designed by Leesa, and there will also be a wide range of patterns, kits and products from Chandlers Cottage, plus items made by members of the Friends of RBG Cranbourne Botanical Fabricators group.

This exhibition will also see the International Launch of Leesa’s next Australian floral collection, ‘Melba’, featuring Australian flowers depicted in an early 1900s Art Nouveau style.

Leesa Chandler has again very kindly donated a large quilt, to be raffled by the Friends to assist in the ongoing development of RBGV Cranbourne. It is entitled the ‘Autumn Aussie Swag Quilt’ and you can get a hint of its beauty in the photo here, but

to see it ‘in the flesh’ will entice you even further. Tickets are $2.00 each obtainable at the Exhibition, or you can phone 8774 2483 for tickets in advance. Winning entries will be drawn on Monday 14 March.

Autumn Naturelink will be issued just prior to the Exhibition, so now is the time to mark it in your new 2016 diary. Check for updates on RBGV website <http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au> and search via ‘What’s On at Cranbourne Gardens’ or via Quicklink.

—Gwen Elliot

Australian Textile Exhibition, 2016

Gallery and Auditorium Australian Garden Visitor Centre

Saturday 5 March – Monday 14 March 10am–4pm

Entry is free!

Discovery tour

Western Australia wildflowers

Possibly spring 2017

We are continuing to call for expressions of interest

The response to our first call for expressions of interest was very good and has stimulated John Thompson and me to start formulating a draft tour itinerary for a period of about three weeks. As over 30 people expressed interest in the tour we will start searching for Western Australian tour companies who would be interested in undertaking such a tour.

For those people who missed out on reading about the tour in the spring Naturelink it is envisaged that we will be mainly visiting south of an imaginary line from Perth to Kalgoorlie It will possibly include Kalgoorlie, Norseman, Esperance region (Cape le Grand and Cape Arid National Parks), Ravensthorpe and surrounds, such as the magnificent Fitzgerald River National Park, Hyden, Lake King, Stirling Range and Porongorups, Albany, Walpole, Pemberton, Augusta and Cape Leeuwin and Margaret River etc.

We have heard that this spring some of the National Parks in the southwest, including Fitzgerald NP, were closed to visitors because of the huge problem of Phytopthora cinnamomi (cinnamon fungus) infestation. This sort of action may also affect our itinerary.

We are still seeking expressions of interest from people who would be interested in going on this tour. We need to have genuine expressions of interest as there is much planning involved. At this stage we cannot provide a cost, but similar tours range from about $5000 to $6000. We think that the cost of our tour could be lower.

If interested please put your name in the allocated space on the attached Booking Form and send it to our Booking Officer Marjanne Rook.

If you have any queries, please contact Rodger Elliot on 8774 2483.

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