Parramatta River Grey Headed Flying Fox Camp Management Plan (Project No )

Transcription

1 Parramatta River Grey Headed Flying Fox Camp Management Plan (Project No ) Report prepared for: Parramatta Park Trust and Sydney West Area Health Services Final August 2008 ABN address Suite 17, Level 4, 19 Bolton Street Newcastle NSW 2300 postal PO Box 1056 Newcastle NSW 2300 phone fax web

2 Document Tracking Item Detail Signature Project Name Parramatta Park Grey-headed Flying-fox Management Plan Project Number Prepared by Antony von Chrismar Prepared by Steve Dimitriadis Approved by Status Final Date 28/8/08 Acknowledgements This document has been prepared by Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd with support from Parramatta Park Trust and staff and Sydney West Area Health Services. With special thanks to Pino Todarello from Parramatta Park and Peggy Eby, who provided some specialist advice for Grey-headed Flying-fox camp management. Disclaimer This document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the agreement between Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd and Parramatta Park Trust and Sydney West Area Health Services. The scope of services was defined in consultation with the client, by time and budgetary constraints imposed by the client, and the availability of reports and other data. Changes to available information, legislation and schedules are made on an ongoing basis and readers should obtain up to date information. Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report and its supporting material by any third party. Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for site specific assessment or legal advice in relation to any matter. Unauthorised use of this report in any form is prohibited. i

3 Executive Summary Parramatta River Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus policephalus) camp (The Camp) is located on both Parramatta Park Trust (PPT) and Sydney West Area Health Services (SWAHS) land. Eco Logical Australia were commissioned by PPT and SWAHS to prepare this Grey-headed Flying-fox Management Plan and address the relevant issues expressed by both land holders. The Vision for management of the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying- fox Camp under this Management Plan is: To ensure the cohesive and integrated management of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp by the PPT and SWAHS. The Parramatta River Camp is a permanent Grey-headed Flying-fox camp site located in the north eastern section of Parramatta Park along the banks of the Parramatta River, with 80% of The Camp on SWAHS land (Core Camp) (refer to Figure 1) and the remaining on Park land (Satellite Camp). The Camp is comprised of approximately 5000 to 6000 individuals of Grey-headed Flying-fox and occupies approximately 1 hectare in area (see Figure 1). In order to address the above vision and principles, a structure (listed below) identifying key elements of the Management Plan has been developed: Identify the vision and the context for the Management Plan (Section 2); Identify the Legislative and Policy Framework for the Management Plan (Section 3); Discuss the merits and requirements for In-situ versus off-site relocation (Section 4); Known and potential Flying-fox roost habitat (Section 5); Identify the cultural heritage values associated with Parramatta Park in the context of The Camp (Section 6); Document the natural values of Parramatta Park and SWAHS in the context of The Camp, including the flora and fauna of conservation significance Section 7); Identify management issues, objectives and actions within Parramatta Park and SWAHS land in the context of managing The Camp (Section 8); and Implementation and Review of the Management Plan (Section 9). Table 3 in Section 9.2 provides a summary of the management actions that are recommended according to this Management Plan. ii

4 Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... II 1. INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND LOCATION OF THE FLYING FOX CAMP LAND TENURE VISION, PRINCIPALS, OBJECTIVES VISION PRINCIPLES FOR THE MANAGEMENT PLAN KEY ELEMENTS OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY FRAMEWORK RELATIONSHIP OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN WITH RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND POLICIES IN-SITU MANAGEMENT VERSUS OFF-SITE RELOCATION THE CURRENT CONDITION OF THE VEGETATION POTENTIAL FOR REHABILITATION AND RE-VEGETATION; THE IMPACTS OF WORKS ON THE CAMP RISK OF THE GREY-HEADED FLYING-FOXES RELOCATING INTO OTHER AREAS OF THE PARK KNOWN AND POTENTIAL FLYING-FOX ROOST HABITAT KNOWN FLYING-FOX CAMP POTENTIAL FLYING-FOX CAMP HABITAT CULTURAL HERITAGE VALUES INDIGENOUS EUROPEAN NATURAL VALUES GEOLOGY AND SOILS TOPOGRAPHY VEGETATION COMMUNITIES VEGETATION COMMUNITY DESCRIPTIONS WITHIN THE FLYING-FOX CAMP CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE MANAGEMENT ISSUES, OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS CONSERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF NATIVE FLORA AND FAUNA PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF KNOWN HABITAT MANAGEMENT OF POTENTIAL HABITAT PROTECTION OF EUROPEAN AND ABORIGINAL CULTURAL VALUES TREATMENT OF NOXIOUS AND ENVIRONMENTAL WEEDS FERAL AND DOMESTIC ANIMALS DISEASE ACCESS FIRE MANAGEMENT RECREATION AND TOURISM COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION, STEWARDSHIP AND EDUCATION IMPLEMENTATION AND REVIEW IMPLEMENTATION REVIEW OF THIS PLAN REFERENCES iii

5 1. Introduction The following section provides a background to the Parramatta River Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus policephalus) camp (The Camp) that is located on both Parramatta Park and Sydney West Area Health Services (SWAHS) land. 1.1 Background Parramatta Park ( the Park ) is an 86 hectare reserve on the western edge of the Parramatta Central Business District in the Parramatta Local Government Area (LGA) (See Figure 1). The Park is bound by business and residential development to the east and west, Parramatta Golf Course to the South and Cumberland Hospital to the North. The Park is a major recreation focus for family groups in Western Sydney, with well over a million visitors to the park each year. The Park is managed by the Parramatta Park Trust (PPT) which is constituted under the Parramatta Park Trust Act 2001 (the Act). The primary responsibility of PPT is the conservation and interpretation of the Park s heritage, improvement of amenities and the provision of visitor services (PPT, 2007). The Park contains cultural and natural heritage significance, with items listed on the Register of National Estate, National Heritage List and a Nomination for World Heritage Listing (PPT 2002; PPT 2007a). SWAHS is located on the northeast bank of the Parramatta River, with buildings in close proximity to the main area of the camp (Core Camp). SWAHS occupies approximately 25 ha of land and is bound to the east and north by residential and commercial development. The PPT and SWAHS have identified several issues associated with The Camp, including the protection and management of natural and cultural heritage. The Camp is located alongside the Parramatta River, adjoining both Parramatta Park and SWAHS land. Eco Logical Australia were commissioned by PPT and SWAHS to prepare this Grey-headed Flying-fox Management Plan (Management Plan) and address the relevant issues expressed by both land holders. 1.2 Location of the Flying Fox Camp The Parramatta River Camp is a permanent Grey-headed Flying-fox camp site located in the north eastern section of the Park along the banks of the Parramatta River, with 80% of The Camp on SWAHS land (Core Camp) (refer to Figure 1) and the remaining on Park land (Satellite Camp). The Camp is comprised of approximately 5000 to 6000 individuals of Grey-headed Flying-fox and occupies approximately 1 hectare in area (see Figure 1). 1.3 Land Tenure The Camp is located alongside the Parramatta River, on both SWAHS land on the eastern river bank and the Park on the western bank. The Core Camp is located on 4

6 SWAHS land and PPT land which is zoned North Parramatta Mixed Use (Zone 10). The Satellite Camp is located on the western bank of the Parramatta River within Parramatta Park, which is Crown Land reserved for the purpose of public recreation according to the Parramatta City Centre LEP (PPT, 2007a; Planning NSW 2007). 5

7 Final Management Plan for the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox camp Figure 1: Location of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp. 6 Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd Ecological Assessment, GIS, Environmental Management and Planning Ph - (02) Fax - (02)

8 2. Vision, Principals, Objectives 2.1 Vision The Vision for management of the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying- fox Camp under this Management Plan is: To ensure the cohesive and integrated management of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp by the PPT and SWAHS. Outlined below is the basis for taking forward this vision under the Management Plan 2.2 Principles for the Management Plan The Management Plan has been prepared consistent with the following guiding principles for the management of the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox camp. Management actions shall be taken: in a manner that is consistent with: o Parramatta Park Landscape Master Plan, Parramatta Park Conservation and Management Plan, North Parramatta Government Sites Landscape Master Plan; and o DECC guidelines, policies and recovery plans; to ensure compliance with the relevant local, NSW and Commonwealth Government legislation. 2.3 Key Elements of the Management Plan In order to address the above vision and principles, a structure (listed below) identifying key elements of the Management Plan has been developed: Identify the vision and the context for the Management Plan (Section 2); Identify the Legislative and Policy Framework for the Management Plan (Section 3); Discuss the merits and requirements for In-situ versus off-site relocation (Section 4); Known and potential Flying-fox roost habitat (Section 5); Identify the cultural heritage values associated with Parramatta Park in the context of The Camp (Section 6); Document the natural values of Parramatta Park and SWAHS in the context of The Camp, including the flora and fauna of conservation significance Section 7); Identify management issues, objectives and actions within Parramatta Park and SWAHS land in the context of managing The Camp (Section 8); and Implementation and Review of the Management Plan (Section 9). 7

9 3. Legislative and Policy Framework 3.1 Relationship of the Management Plan with relevant legislation and policies Legislation and policies that are relevant to the management of the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox colony and this Management Plan have been outlined as follows The Parramatta Park Trust Act 2001 (PPT Act) The PPT Act allows for the promotion and use of the Park where consistent with the objectives and the charging of fees where appropriate. The objectives of the PPT Act are: a) to maintain and improve the trust lands, and b) to encourage the use and enjoyment of the trust lands by the public by promoting the recreational, historical, scientific, educational and cultural heritage value of those lands, and c) to ensure the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage values of the trust lands and the protection of the environment within those lands, and d) such other objects, consistent with the functions of the Trust in relation to the trust lands, as the Trust considers appropriate. It also allows for the granting of leases, easements and licences under certain conditions. This Management Plan has been prepared to inform the management of The Camp within the Park, in line with Objective c) above Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995(TSC Act) The TSC Act aims to protect and encourage the recovery of threatened species, populations and communities listed under the Act. Obligations on Councils and other agencies and individuals include consideration of threatened species, populations, ecological communities and recovery plans in fulfilling their statutory responsibilities in the development approvals process under the EP&A Act. The Act inserts provisions to the approvals process where there is likely to be a significant effect requiring a Species Impact Statement (SIS) to be prepared. The consent or determining authority must seek the concurrence of the Director- General of the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) where there is likely to be a significant effect on threatened species, populations or endangered ecological communities, or their habitats or where the proposal impacts on identified critical habitat. The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act. Actions contained within this Management Plan may be subject to impact assessment under this Act. The purpose of this Management Plan is not to assess the significance of any of the proposed activities or actions, but rather is to be used for the purpose of future management of the flying-fox camp within the context of SWAHS and Parramatta Park management. 8

10 3.1.3 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) All native fauna and many species of native plants are protected by law in NSW. It is an offence under the NPW Act to harm protected species without an appropriate approval. Grey-headed Flying-foxes are protected under Section 98 of the NPW Act. Under Sections 98, 118A and 118D of the NPW Act, there are significant penalties for harming protected fauna, for harming threatened animals or damaging their habitat, or for picking threatened flora, without an appropriate licence, consents or approvals Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) The Commonwealth EPBC Act provides a national scheme for protecting the environment and conserving biodiversity values. Approval from the Commonwealth Environment Minister is required under the EPBC Act if the action (which can include a project, development, undertaking or activity) will, or is likely to, have a significant impact on matters considered to be of national environmental significance (NES matters). The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as vulnerable and thus an NES matter. Actions contained within this Management Plan may be subject to the need for a referral and/or impact assessment under this Act. The purpose of this Management Plan is not to assess the significance of a proposed activity, but is to be used for the purpose of future management of the flying-fox camp within the context of PPT and SWAHS management Legislation and policy Summary In providing active management of The Camp, PPT and SWAHS will give regard to the provisions and requirements of the following local, state and commonwealth legislation: Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 National Parks and Wildlife Act, Commonwealth Native Title Act, NSW Heritage Act, Noxious Weed Act Rural Lands Protection Act Rural Fires Act Water Management Act The Protection of the Environment Operations Act Aboriginal Land Rights Act, Crown Lands Consolidation Act SEPP No 19 Bushland in Urban Areas requirements for Management Plans. 9

11 SEPP No 44 Koala Habitat Protection. Parramatta Regional Environmental Plan (SREP No. 28 Parramatta). Parramatta City Council Local Environmental Plan. 4. In-situ management versus off-site relocation In-situ conservation of The Camp via a strategic management plan is the DECC recommended approach to management of colonies such as the Parramatta River Camp, and so has been the basis upon which this management plan has been prepared. In assessing the feasibility of management and maintenance of the camp in-situ, a range of factors need to be considered. This plan is based on consideration of legislative responsibility, agency requirements and the ecological viability of the habitat on site. Other factors that will determine whether in-situ management of the camp is viable over the long-term have also been reviewed. These include: The current condition of the vegetation; potential for rehabilitation and re-vegetation; the impacts of works on The Camp e.g. increased disturbance which must also be managed; and risk of the Grey-headed Flying-foxes relocating into other undesired areas of the park. However, some studies that could provide additional management information are outside the scope of this study and so have not been addressed. For example, a full study of the Camps viability would require analysis involving a greater level of ecological, social and economic research and is beyond the scope of the brief for this Management Plan. This Management Plan provides an opportunity to define how best to assure The Camp s ecological viability, and manageability, within the context of its surroundings. DECC policy (2007b) clearly states that preparation and implementation of a strategic plan to manage a camp in-situ should precede any proposal to relocate a camp. In order for DECC to assess any relocation proposal, DECC requires that the proposal be accompanied by a completed in-situ management plan, together with an explanation as to why the DECC preferred in-situ management approach is not viable. DECC also requires that land managers who are considering relocation demonstrate exceptional circumstances. A camp site that is not ecologically viable over the long term regardless of the management intervention may be regarded as an exceptional circumstance or at least would warrant consideration. This should be considered and evaluated as management actions are carried out and the camp condition is monitored 10

12 In this respect then, and in line with DECC s preferred approach, this Management Plan takes as its starting point, the position that the most viable basis for immediate management of the population is to be in-situ, with considerations of population relocation left to a later stage. That said, there are a number of cultural heritage, social, economic and environmental factors that influence the long-term viability of The Camp through insitu management, and which may suggest that a relocation proposal be developed. This Management Plan makes recommendations on this point (see Section 9). Specifically, it is proposed that an analysis of these factors be undertaken by a suitably qualified person as the first step towards compiling any future relocation proposal and that this matter be continually evaluated as management actions are carried out and the camp is monitored. It is important to note also, that cost effective and reliable techniques for the relocation of Grey-headed Flying-fox camps have not yet been fully developed. Efforts to date to achieve colony relocations have often resulted in less than desirable results and have caused stress and even fatalities to the respective populations (DECC, 2007b). 4.1 The current condition of the vegetation The vegetation within the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is considered to represent River-flat Eucalypt Forest on coastal floodplain in the Sydney basin, a listed Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) (refer to Section 7.5) under the TSC Act. With regards to the ecological viability of the site, the concentration of Grey-headed Flying-fox roost activity within the camp area and weed infestations has resulted in degradation and thinning of the forest canopy with limited opportunity for individuals in the camp to spread out and alleviate the pressure on this localised area. Facilitating the growth and emergence of existing and new native canopy species within the existing Camp and at strategic areas of potential roost habitat, as recommended by this plan, aims to improve the long term viability of The Camp. 4.2 Potential for rehabilitation and re-vegetation; By improving the suitability of areas of potential roost habitat and encouraging roosting in such areas that do not conflict with sensitive areas, the concentrated pressures of The Camp (ie canopy defoliation) would be alleviated and allow for the regeneration of areas of the current camp that are in poor condition. Weeds are considered a major issue for The Camp and management of both noxious and invasive environmental weeds is critical for the regeneration of degraded vegetation within The Camp and thus the long term survival of The Camp. It is also important to prevent the development of weed growth in areas that are less degraded. This management plan makes recommendations to this effect. 11

13 4.3 The impacts of works on The Camp Past use of machinery for vegetation maintenance within and adjacent to the camp by SWAHS has caused disruption and dispersal of some flying-foxes from the Core Camp and has resulted in the establishment of a Satellite Camp. Routine SWAHS maintenance activities continue to enhance pressures on the satellite roost. It is important for both PPT and SWAHS to allow for general grounds maintenance for safe community access, visitor services and to maintain the park setting. As such, provision of maintenance activities needs to be managed while being sensitive to The Camp. This Management Plan presents an approach to the management of this issue. 4.4 Risk of the Grey-headed Flying-foxes relocating into other areas of the park Monitoring of the camp indicates that the core camp has moved progressively south along the eastern bank, presumably in response to canopy senescence and deterioration and machinery disturbance and loss of understorey due to clearance. Several areas have been identified as being sensitive to the establishment of roost activity by PPT, due to either the occurrence of culturally significant items, leases or general recreational use of the Park (ie aesthetics, flying-fox faecal odours, and falling tree branch hazards). It is with this in mind that the principal of encouraging rehabilitation and revegetation in strategic locations, along with access, maintenance and planting recommendations have been provided in this plan. It is recognised, however, that further encroachment of the camp towards sensitive areas of Parramatta Park would require flying-fox deterrent action. Measures to deter flying-fox roosting in these sensitive areas are subject to DECC approval. See Section 8. 12

14 5. Known and Potential Flying-fox Roost Habitat 5.1 Known Flying-fox camp The current extent of the flying-fox camp is illustrated in Figure 2 below. The Core Camp, containing the majority of the individuals, is on the eastern bank of the Parramatta River on both SWAHS and PPT land, with a smaller Satellite Camp that has recently formed on the western bank on PPT land. The Satellite Camp receives a limited but progressively increasing number of Greyheaded Flying-foxes, ranging from between 300 to 1200 individuals. Grey-headed Flying-foxes were first observed roosting at the satellite camp in June Initially, approximately 1000 Grey-headed Flying-foxes relocated from the Core Camp to the Satellite Camp. This movement was a result of repeated maintenance where heavy plant equipment was used to clear understorey weeds within the Core Camp. The flying-foxes occupied the Satellite Camp for approximately 3 months after which time individuals returned to the Core Camp. For reasons unknown flying-foxes again began relocating to the Satellite Camp in February 2008 and have occupied the area on a near permanent basis. Given that in the last breeding season Grey-headed Flying-fox have been observed rearing young within the Satellite Camp, there is concern that Satellite Camp progeny will demonstrate site fidelity to this smaller area of The Camp. 5.2 Potential Flying-fox camp habitat Areas considered to offer potential habitat for flying-fox roosting are illustrated in Figure 2. In general, Grey-headed Flying-fox roosts occur proximate to watercourses with the dominant closed vegetation types usually being rainforest, wet sclerophyll, Melaleucas, Casuarinas or mangroves (Eby 2002). Although the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox camp occurs in a more open forest type, continued occurrence of the camp suggests high roost site fidelity that is most likely dictated by the presence of the adjoining Parramatta River that provides a large perennial water course. As such, areas of potential habitat have been mapped and are essentially confined to areas adjoining the Parramatta River. The management of Grey-headed Flying-fox roost activity in areas of potential roost habitat is important to avoid potential land use conflicts (eg. roost activity conflicting with areas used for recreational purposes). 13

15 Figure 2: Known and potential habitat for flying-fox roosting. 14

16 6. Cultural Heritage Values 6.1 Indigenous The location of The Camp is within the territory of the Burramatta clan of the Darug. The area is still of high cultural value to the Darug people, who continue to participate in the cultural and physical management of the place (PPT 2007a). Val Attenbrow (1996)(in PPT 2002) undertook archaeological research into the Aboriginal archaeological significance of the Park. This survey found Aboriginal stone artefacts in widely distributed parts of the Park as well as a single scar tree. Parramatta Park was widely used by Aboriginal people in the times before Governor Phillip and his party first visited there in April 1788 (Attenbrow 1996; PPT 2002). Attenbrow (1996) found that the significance of the Aboriginal archaeological evidence within the Park related to its survival in a highly built up area, its ability to demonstrate past land-use patterns, and its importance to contemporary local Aboriginal communities (PPT 2002). Areas with potential indigenous archaeological sensitivity are the river areas, the ridge and the slope adjacent to the river. The entire Park is considered to have been used, farmed and managed by the Burramatta clan of the Darug (PPT 2002) The Camp is situated within riparian vegetation along the Parramatta River and is within an area known to support evidence of Aboriginal occupation (Mackay 1995; PPT 2002). An artefact scatter occurs within the extent of the current camp near Buttons Bridge and an isolated find occurs near the Dairy Precinct (Mackay 1995) (refer to Figure 3). 6.2 European Parramatta Park has many representations of early European settlement in Australia. Its siting relates to the identification of The Crescent by Governor Phillip and the establishment of an agricultural settlement in 1788, which was vital towards the survival of the early colony. Elements of European cultural heritage include: The oldest surviving Government House in Australia. Parramatta Park is Governor and Mrs Macquarie s landscaped park and estate and is a rare example of a public park reflecting the structure and character of the former Government Domain of the late 18th Century in Australia. It is the site of 19th Century and 20th Century recreation and public sporting activities and as one of the earliest public parks in Australia and the third national park, it continues to be a major place for public recreation, since its dedication as a public park in 1858 (PPT 2007a). Built form heritage items include fences, walls bridges, buildings, structures, roads, gates, paths, paving and drains (PPT 2002). 15

17 There are numerous items of European heritage within the immediate proximity of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp and there has been some concern expressed over areas of European cultural heritage that are adjacent to riparian vegetation, and are therefore within areas that offer potential for the extension of The Camp. Several examples of European cultural heritage have been identified through listings on the Heritage Register (searched on 19 August 2008) and consultation with PPT and SWAHS. Examples of European cultural heritage that are listed on the Heritage Register include: Causeway Northern (upper) Weir Flat Rocks Ross Street SWAHS boundary walls, gardens, buildings eg. female factory. Palisade fence between Cumberland Hospital and PPT Little Coogee Old Kings Oval Dairy Precinct 16

18 Final Management Plan for the Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox camp Figure 3: Aboriginal and early European cultural heritage values. Information sourced from PPT (2002) and Mackay (1995). 17 Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd Ecological Assessment, GIS, Environmental Management and Planning Ph - (02) Fax - (02)

19 7. Natural Values 7.1 Geology and soils Parramatta Park comprises five (5) differing soil types and bedrock formations, as described below: Wianamatta Group Occurs in the southern portion of the Park; Sandstone Occurs in the northern portion of the Park; Riverine alluvial Associated with Parramatta River; Alluvium and shale over sandstone Deposited alluvial matter from the Parramatta River in the central eastern portion of the Park; and Ashfield Shale The remaining portions of the Park (PPT 2002). The Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is situated within the riparian vegetation on riverine alluvial soils and on Wianamatta shale on the steeper slopes above the river terraces. 7.2 Topography The topography of Parramatta Park is the result of the interaction of natural processes (ie geology and fluvial processes from the Parramatta River) as well as landform modifications. A low ridge occurs north to south through the centre of the Park and gentle to moderate slopes grade from this ridge, and become steep adjacent to the Parramatta River, which forms an S shape curve through the Park. The Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is situated alongside the steep slopes adjoining the Parramatta River. The riparian zone of Parramatta River is characterised by a narrow to broad terrace extending from the top of bank which then rises steeply to the floodplain. The Core Camp lies within the riparian zone on the eastern bank of the Parramatta River and extends from the Noller Bridge and causeway north past the northern weir to opposite the confluence of Domain Creek and the River, approximately 200 metres downstream of the Cumberland Hospital bridge. North of the footbridge and causeway the riparian zone slopes steeply down (~30-40º) from a height of approximately 7 m above the river bank (foot of brick wall) to a small terrace which extends approximately 5-7 m from the top of bank. The erosional bank within the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is typically low (~0.5 1m) and varies from vertical to gently sloping. Further up stream near the northern weir, the terrace extending from the top of bank broadens to approximately 8-12 m and the slope rising to the hospital boundary becomes less steep (~5-10º). On the opposite side of the river, topography is similar to that described above. The typically low erosional bank gives way to a terrace which varies in width from a few metres to more than 20 metres before rising steeply to the floodplain above. A large sandstone rock platform is located immediately downstream of the northern weir and forms an extensive flat, un-vegetated area. Upstream of the northern weir, the 18

20 riparian zone is narrow (approximately 10 m) and rises steeply from the top of bank to the floodplain above without a discernable terrace structure. 7.3 Vegetation Communities NPWS (2002) mapping of vegetation on the Cumberland Plain identified a number of vegetation communities as occurring within the study area, including alluvial woodland, shale sandstone transition forest (high sandstone influence), shale sandstone transition forest (low sandstone influence) and shale plains woodland (NPWS 2002). Validation of existing vegetation within Parramatta Park identified five vegetation communities, which have been mapped in Figure 4 and include: Plantings: This is a landscaped area dominated by plantings; Shale Plains Woodland: This is a variation of Cumberland Plain Woodland, a listed Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the TSC Act and EPBC Act; River-flat Eucalypt forest: This is regarded as River-flat Eucalypt Forest on coastal floodplain in the Sydney basin a listed EEC under the TSC Act; Degraded River-flat Eucalypt forest: This is a highly degraded area of what would have been at one stage River-flat Eucalypt Forest on coastal floodplain in the Sydney basin a listed EEC. The area has been subject to intense weed invasion. Parkland: remaining grassed areas. 7.4 Vegetation Community Descriptions within the Flying-fox camp River-flat Eucalypt Forest River-flat Eucalypt Forest is recognised as an EEC. Within the core camp, on the eastern side of the river, River-flat Eucalypt Forest extended from the northern weir, downstream past the stadium to where the river bends and drains in an easterly direction. The condition of the River-flat Eucalypt Forest in this area varies considerably from a sparse native canopy and weed dominated understorey to intact native canopy and mixed native and exotic understorey vegetation (refer to Figure 4) and is thus generally of low condition. Within the area between the northern weir and the causeway, River-flat Eucalypt Forest is highly weedy and appeared to improve in condition from upstream to downstream. The upstream half of the area between the northern weir and the causeway had a canopy dominated by Elm (Ulmus spp.), Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta) and Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and a dense mid-storey of Camphor Laurel, Elm, Broad-leaved Privet (Ligustrum lucidium) and Sweet Pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum). Owing to the dense mid-storey vegetation, the understorey and groundcover were sparse in this area with patchy occurrences of Cat s Claw Creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati), Wandering Jew, Native Wandering Jew and Weeping Rye Grass. River oak (Casuarina cunninghamiana) and Silky Oak (12-16 metres) formed a sparse to moderate canopy (~10% PFC) in the downstream half of the area between the northern weir and causeway. Below the canopy, the mid-storey was dominated by 19

21 Small-Leaved Privet (Ligustrum sinense) and broad-leaved privet with camphor laurel and elm occurred occasionally. Coral Tree (Eryhrina crystal gallis) was common along the top of bank. The understorey was dominated by Lantana and young individuals of mid-storey species and was dense (~45-60% PFC) owing to an abundance of Cat s Claw Creeper and Balloon Vine. The groundcover was moderately dense (~25-35%PFC) and dominated by Wandering Jew, Balloon Vine, Cat s Claw Creeper and Native Wandering Jew. Within the Satellite Camp on the western bank of the river and opposite, River-flat Eucalypt Forest vegetation was structurally and floristically different to that observed on the eastern bank. Bush regeneration activities had removed most weeds including Lantana which previously dominated the understorey and as such the understorey was very sparse. The canopy within this area of River-flat Eucalypt Forest was dominated by the native Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) as well as non-local natives such as Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys), Lemon-Scented Gum (Eucalyptus citriodora) and Southern Mahogany (Eucalyptus botryoides). Other canopy species included Narrow-Leaved Stringybark (Eucalyptus eugenioides) and Rough-Barked Apple (Angophora floribunda). The canopy was approximately 18-22m tall with a PFC of approximately 20-25%. A number of native understorey species, either planted or retained during bush regeneration activities, were observed including Sydney Green Wattle (Acacia parramattensis) and Hop-Bush (Dodonaea triquetra). Coral tree occupied the top of bank and the groundlayer on the terrace behind was dominated by exotic species. Immediately downstream of the causeway, on both banks of the river, the riparian vegetation is sparse consisting of isolated remnant trees (Forest Red Gum, River Oak) and patches of planted trees (Camphor Laurel, Silky Oak, Lemon-scented Gum). Several large fig trees (Ficus rubiginosa) can be found on the western bank south of the café. These areas are managed as open space recreation areas and are therefore regularly maintained Degraded River-flat Eucalypt Forest Upstream of the northern weir and within the northern section of the existing Greyheaded Flying-fox camp, the riparian vegetation is dominated by introduced plant species at all structural layers. A sparse canopy was present and consisted of introduced species such as Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora), Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii), Pepper Tree (Schinus molle var. areira) and Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica). The canopy varied in height from 14 to 20 m tall and projected foliage cover (PFC) was estimated at approximately 2-5%. A mid-storey layer to 3-6 m was present below the canopy and was dominated by Broad-leaved Privet (Ligustrum lucidum), Coral Tree (Erythrina crystal gallis) and Pepper Tree and was extensively covered with Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Purple Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica) forming a dense cover in patches. The understorey and groundlayer were extremely weedy with only a few native species present Native Wandering Jew (Commelina cyanea), Weeping Rye Grass (Microlaena stipoides) and River Bottlebrush (Callistemon sieberi). Species encountered in the understorey included Paddy s Lucerne (Sida rhombifolia), Purpletop (Verbena bonariensis), Lantana (Lantana camara), Cobbler s Pegs (Bidens pilosa), Madeira Vine (Anredera cordifolia), Green Cestrum (Cestrum parqui) and Fleabane (Conyza 20

22 bonariensis). The groundlayer was similarly weedy and dominated by species such as Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis), Panic Veldtgrass (Ehrharta erecta), Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum) and Vasey Grass (Paspalum urvillei). The Grey-headed Flying-fox was found to be roosting in most of canopy trees species present in the area of weeds and exotics (excepting Bunya Pine). Trees in which the Grey-headed Flying-fox was roosting were typically defoliated to varying extents on the upper branches. 21

23 Figure 4: Vegetation Communities within the study area. 22

24 7.5 Conservation Significance Flora There are no listed threatened flora species that have been recorded within the area of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp, nor are any considered likely to occur Fauna The Grey-headed Flying-fox is the only threatened species that has been recorded within the study area, and is listed as vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act. Other species that have been recorded within close proximity to the study area and have some potential to utilise habitats within and adjoining the area include the Southern Myotis (Myotis adversus) and Eastern Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) Ecological Communities Parramatta Park contains remnant vegetation of Shale Plain Woodland Cumberland Plain Woodland and Riverflat Eucalypt Forest on coastal floodplain in the Sydney basin, both listed as EEC s under the TSC Act (refer to Figure 3). Cumberland Plain Woodland is also listed under the EPBC Act. The Parramatta River Grey-headed Flying-fox Camp is situated within Riverflat Eucalypt Forest EEC and, as such, there is a potential conflict between The Camp and degradation and constraints with managing the rehabilitation of the EEC. 23

25 8. Management issues, objectives and actions A number of management issues, objectives and actions have been identified through consultation with PPT and SWAHS and site visits by experts and review of relevant information and policy. Below is a discussion of management issues, objectives and actions, with Figure 5 illustrating the location of the management actions. 24

26 Figure 5: Management Actions 25

27 8.1 Conservation and enhancement of native flora and fauna Current status As discussed in Section 7.5 above, the study area contains two EEC s (refer to Figure 4), the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp, potential forage habitat for other threatened fauna species and various native flora species and vegetation communities. These are all of conservation significance and need to be managed and enhanced where possible. Of particular importance is the management of the area of River-flat Eucalypt Forest EEC where the Grey-headed Flying-foxes are roosting and areas of potential roost habitat (refer to Figure 2), which is addressed in Sections 8.2 and 8.3 below. There are three main vegetation plans that are in progress or have been completed by PPT, these include Domain Creek restoration and planting, Ridgeline erosion control and vegetation management, and Murray Gardens Creek restoration and replanting. General park management (ie grass cutting and maintenance) is also undertaken by PPT Under the Parramatta Park LMP (PPT LMP) and Parramatta City Centre LEP 2007, PPT is to manage vegetation to maintain significant views and vistas. SWAHS undertakes vegetation management on its own land Objectives Alleviate the stress placed on the camp riparian vegetation that is the result of continued and concentrated camp use by flying-foxes. Control invasive weeds and promote rehabilitation of degraded areas. Manage and improve the condition of the EEC s within the study area. Allow for continued management of native flora and fauna, while being sensitive to the flying-fox camp. Provide guidelines for vegetation management within Parramatta Park and SWAHS land. Vegetation management is to be in accordance with the PPTLMP and Parramatta City Centre LEP (ie to retain significant identified views) without jeopardising the viability of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp. The area of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is not considered to be within an area that would jeopardise identified significant views or vistas (PPT 2007a) and therefore continued maintenance of these views will not affect the camp Management Actions Guidelines for rehabilitation in areas within or near to the Grey-headed Flyingfox camp are provided in Table 3 in Section 9.2. Revegetate areas of riparian vegetation that offer practical potential habitat. Areas recommended for rehabilitation are illustrated in Figure 5. Current vegetation plans should continue and be expanded to include the recommended rehabilitation and regeneration measures within this Management Plan. The condition of the Riverflat Eucalypt Forest EEC is to be monitored as part of vegetation management recommended in this Management Plan. 26

28 8.2 Protection and Management of known habitat Current Status The extent of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp is shown in Figure 2. There are four main interrelated issues associated with the protection and management of the camp. These are the thinning and degradation of canopy species by the flying-fox within the camp (a listed EEC - River-flat Eucalypt Forest), the proliferation of weeds, the potential for migration of the camp and general vegetation maintenance. Thinning and degradation of canopy species: Due to the already fragmented and sparse condition of vegetation within the flyingfox camp, the concentration of flying-fox roost activity within this area has resulted in degradation and thinning of the forest canopy with limited opportunity for individuals in the camp to spread out and alleviate the pressure on this localised area. Facilitating the growth and emergence of existing and new native canopy species within the existing flying-fox camp is vital to improve the long term viability of the flying-fox camp. Proliferation of invasive weeds: Areas of weeds and exotics are mapped within Figure 4 and include an area within and to the north of the extent of the Core Camp. It is difficult to determine the history and development of weeds in the camp. However, it is speculated that introduction or facilitation of weed growth through flying-fox seed dispersal, increased nutrients from flying-fox excrement and canopy thinning, and limitations to vegetation management within The Camp vegetation have enhanced weed invasion. Management of weeds in proximity to the camp is of particular importance, not only for the general management of weeds, but also for suppressing weed growth for the purposes of facilitating the growth and emergence of new native canopy species to maintain the functionality of the vegetation as a roost. Camp migration PPT monitoring has shown that the Core Camp has moved progressively south along the eastern bank, presumably in response to canopy senescence, deterioration and SWAHS vegetation removal activities. Given the pressures that Grey-headed Flyingfox camps place on vegetation (ie canopy thinning and potentially weed proliferation), it is vital that measures are put in place to maintain and improve the condition of known camp habitat and in turn control camp movement into other areas. Vegetation removal and grounds maintenance: As discussed in Section 4.4, past use of heavy machinery for vegetation underscrubbing within and adjacent to the camp has resulted in the disruption and dispersal of Grey-headed Flying-foxes from the Core Camp and has enhanced 27

29 pressures on the Satellite Camp. It is important to allow for general grounds maintenance on both PPT and SWAHS land; however, the removal of understorey and shrub vegetation within and immediately adjacent to the Grey-headed Flyingfox roost is likely to directly disrupt the roost and the roost micro-climatic conditions and thus degrade the viability and suitability of the Core Camp. In relation to general grounds maintenance, such as lawn mowing, DECC (2007) have advised that grounds maintenance is only to be undertaken outside of the breeding and lactating season and thus presenting management and aesthetic issues for both PPT and SWAHS. The Royal Botanic Gardens Grey-headed Flying-fox roost represents another example and provides a precedence in dealing with flying-fox camps in a recreational parkland setting. At the Royal Botanic Gardens roost, general maintenance activities, such as lawn mowing and leaf blowing, are carried out throughout the year, including within the breeding season, and no apparent incidence of camp disturbance has been observed (Peggy Eby pers. comm. August 2008). However, it should be noted that the Grey-headed Flying-fox is likely to have some level of acclimatisation to noise and appropriate measures should be implemented, such as a gradual approach to The Camp during mowing/maintenance activities (ie begin maintenance away from The Camp and gradually approach the areas to be mown that are close to The Camp. Paramatta Park Trust have also considered other measures, such as conducting grounds maintenance in proximity to the Satellite Camp during the evening when all Greyheaded Flying-foxes have vacated The Camp. As a result of discussions regarding the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp, PPT and SWAHS are developing joint management strategies for vegetation and grounds maintenance to ensure that coherent management occurs. As part of this approach, both PPT and SWAHS are to provide each other with projected maintenance schedules and it is recommended that the relevant actions for garden maintenance from this Management Plan be incorporated Objectives To provide management principals and practices for the protection of the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp, while allowing for a pragmatic approach to required vegetation maintenance and management. To alleviate the stress on localised areas of the vegetation within the Greyheaded Flying-fox camp. To provide management and policy guidelines for the rehabilitation and regeneration of degraded and weed infested areas within the Grey-headed Flying-fox camp. To maintain the camp within its current parameters Management Actions Tree lopping, branch trimming (ie of dangerous limbs) under-scrubbing and other similar activities within the camp is not permitted without obtaining permission and the relevant licence from DECC (ie a Section 91 Licence) (DECC 2007). It is suggested that, given observations of flying-fox responses to general grounds maintenance at the Royal Botanic Gardens, that general ground 28

30 maintenance machinery (ie lawn mowers and leaf blowers) may be used throughout the year. However, techniques that aid Grey-headed Flying-fox noise acclimatisation (ie gradual approach to the roost with mowing and similar machinery) or evening maintenance in proximity to The Camp should be used. The PPT and SWAHS joint management strategy for vegetation and grounds maintenance is to include the two Management Actions above. Once this Management Plan has been finalised and the PPT and SWAHS joint management strategy for vegetation and grounds maintenance has been prepared, it is suggested that these be appended to a formal letter requesting permission from the DECC to undertake general maintenance works. The Core Camp is to be fenced off as per Figure 5 and signs posted to restrict public access. Fences are to be 5 strand post and wire fences (not barbed wire) or similar. Section provides actions to address SWAHS bushfire management concerns. Relevant Park staff and SWAHS contractors are to be briefed on the maintenance requirements in and around the camp. Areas to be rehabilitated that are within close proximity to or within the extent of The Camp (refer to Figure 5) should be managed through appropriate measures, which are outlined in Section 8.5. Experimentation with the use of olfactory deterrents at specific locations may be a useful camp management tool, though these must be used with caution and outside of the breeding and lactating season. For example, the use of python excrement within bags tied to specific locations within the camp during the night (ie dominant male roosts that have caused canopy degradation from continued use) could be used to deter roosting in locations of the camp for short periods to allow for canopy regeneration (Richards 2002). Consultation with DECC and specialists is considered necessary for this method and a licence may be required. Flying-fox camp population and demography monitoring is to continue. Any incidents involving disturbance to the camp are to be recorded and reported to the Field Services Coordinator, who will be responsible for reporting to the DECC and other appropriate authorities. 8.3 Management of Potential Habitat Current Status Figure 2 illustrates areas considered to offer potential roost habitat for the Greyheaded Flying-fox. This is primarily based on proximity to the Parramatta River, but also on the presence of at least some suitable vegetation. Several areas have been identified as being sensitive to the establishment of roost activity by PPT, due to either the occurrence of culturally significant items or general use of the park. These have been listed in Table 2 below. 29