NEPEAN CONSERVATION NEWS

Transcription

1 NEPEAN CONSERVATION NEWS MARCH 2016

2 Above: NCG AGM Picnic, Saturday 20 February 2016,at Point Nepean National Park. Photo Chris Dunn Cover: Bridgewater Bay, Blairgowrie, MPNP, March Photo: Dave Bichard. Below: Banksia in bloom. Photo: Sarah Patterson. 1 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

3 From the president You know the feeling end of the week, tired, can t wait to get home to family, dinner, looking forward to a weekend. My Deakin University office is in Geelong. On Friday evening I came home via the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento. It was a still, clear, cool evening. The bay like glass, tide going out. So balmy I stood on the upper deck for the whole trip watching, hoping, almost willing our dolphins to appear. Constantly scanning the water surface. Visibility excellent. The setting sun reflected off the buildings in Melbourne, 64 kilometers away. Authur s Seat, Mount Martha, Mount Eliza etched in deepest blue; Mount Dandenong, the Macedon Ranges a paler blue. Again I realised how special this bay of Port Phillip actually is breathtakingly beautiful, unique, awe-inspiring, such a wide expanse of water. I watched the wake of the ferry roll into the distance, and imagined dolphin fins only to be told it was the tunnel effect, as the water curled back on itself, which appeared black in this light! Not to be put off I circumnavigated the deck. Then I saw them, closer inshore, out from the boats moored between Portsea and Point King. They spotted the ferry at the same time. They swam towards us, dived under the ferry and swam alongside us for twenty minutes or so I could not stop smiling. Two dozen dolphins, swimming, frolicking, jumping, leaping, racing, rolling, backwards, forwards, in the turbulence of the water created by the boat. Joy emanated from these dolphins and enveloped the humans watching them. As we entered shallower water coming into Sorrento, they vanished as quickly as they had come. No photographs captured the display. All remains in the mind s eye. Stillness and dusk embraced us as we tied up at the pier and spilled off the ferry into the night. Each person changed a little by this it s great to be alive marvellous experience. As I swam in the rock pools early in the morning to greet the next day, I thought of the dolphins, so graceful in their water world, and me clumsy slow and clearly a landlubber. Nonetheless the feeling of freedom in the water is palpable and my swim an exhilarating beginning to the day. Do enjoy our Autumn Newsletter. There is so much going on in our Nepean Peninsula our Friends Groups are very active and we thank all the volunteers who make such a difference to our natural environment. Planning issues are always on the agenda and we explore historic Sorrento on our upand-coming Autumn ramble. Our dynamic coast challenges us with massive erosion Bayside and Ocean side: the eastern and western Sisters have experienced large sand slips over the summer months; the arch at Bay of Islands is no more many rock falls occurred along that stretch of coast including at Diamond Bay and St Paul s. Change is ever with us how we respond, how we manage it into the future is incumbent on all of us the current custodians of the Nepean Peninsula. Thank you to all the contributors. Dr Ursula de Jong March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 2

4 2016 AGM Some notes from the 2016 AGM (thanks to Rebecca Cohen) Dr de Jong recognised the traditional owners of the land. She then noted the jurisdiction of the Nepean Conservation Group, showing the audience the area of the map that the NCG covers. Dr de Jong referred to the NCG constitution, which dates from 1973, and recalled the aims of the NCG. She said that once we are connected to this place, and come to know it, it is natural to want to care for it. Dr de Jong spoke of how membership of the NCG stems from connection with this place. Dr de Jong showed the audience photos of places that come within planning and environmental issues. These included a photo of The Baths restaurant, that burned down in She commented that the small size of the peninsula adds to the pressure it is under. Dr de Jong discussed the planning conundrum of balancing the different considerations that arise with planning permits: conservation v development. She clarified that the NCG is not against development per se but is against inappropriate development. Dr de Jong shared photos of a Dana Avenue development and discussed the impact on the entire precinct. She referred to the case of the first settlement Shelmerdine subdivision, and NCG concerns about the site, and the fragility of the Two Sisters. Dr de Jong referred to concerning activity 3 March 2016 near the Tuckey Track, including inappropriate fencing, development applications and extensive clearing without permit. She spoke about rubbish dumping the in the Mornington Peninsula National Park. In addition, Dr de Jong spoke about the impact of dogs on the ocean beaches. She reported that the Friends of Hooded Plovers reported that the first chick has flown from Fowler s Beach, to applause from the audience. Dr de Jong referred to the fact that the new review process for the Point Nepean National Park Quarantine Station precinct is underway. She welcomed submission from NCG members. In particular, she emphasised that the NCG desires a bipartisan agreement to secure the future of the precinct within the Point Nepean National Park. Dr de Jong moved on to discuss the township of Sorrento. She spoke about how since the launch of the arts and culture community grant (2014), so much has changed in the Sorrento township. She noted a demolition permit that was made in August The building was in a bad state, it has now been demolished. Dr de Jong emphasised the importance of keeping watch on what happens with any future subdivision or development on the site. She spoke about various developments on Ocean Beach Road Sorrento, including the Carmel site. There were only three objections made to the planning application, yet the developers have been proposing Nepean Conservation News

5 NCG AGM Picnic, Saturday 20 February 2016, at Point Nepean National Park. Photo Chris Dunn. a very large scale building. Dr de Jong invited all members to come to the ramble in April, to walk from the bay to Bass Strait, to appreciate the heritage of the town and to understand what the community values in Sorrento going into the future. Dr de Jong spoke about how the NCG is reconnecting with friends groups in a more meaningful way. She thanked in particular Sarah Patterson, Julie Corridon and John Trewarne. She discussed how our volunteers are an essential part of the ecosystem, and how the committee has been liaising closely with friends groups over the last year. Dr de Jong launched the new plant brochure. She referred to a print that had been hung on the wall, to illustrate the scale and scope of the brochure. She thanked John Franklin, John Trewarne and the wider committee, as well as external organisations and people that have provided assistance. Dr de Jong highlighted the need to get funding to print 10,000 copies. The Shire is being asked to pay 50% and philanthropists are being targeted for support to help make up the difference. The audience was invited to make donations! Dr de Jong referred to the NCG s stable membership base. However if we wish to remain relevant we need to grow our membership. She spoke of the request for everyone present to ask a friend to join. She thanked John Franklin for his hard work in his role as membership officer. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 4

6 Mr Fauteux & Dr de Jong at the AGM. Dr de Jong referred to the NCG seasonal rambles that took place in They will be continuing in Dr de Jong thanked Mechelle Cheers for attending monthly committee members. She then thanked the 2015 NCG Committee for their contributions. She acknowledged the retiring members: Rosie Tipping and Dan Suffern, and thanked them for their contributions and wished them both well. Dr de Jong extended further thanks to all of the NCG s volunteers. Guest speaker: Dr de Jong introduced Mr Fauteux CE Parks Victoria, to the audience (notes thanks to Rebecca Cohen). Mr Fauteux: Acknowledged the traditional owners of the land. 5 March 2016 Discussed the importance of public service and the out of doors to his life. Spoke about the difference between conservation and preservation. Highlighted the compact diversity of Victoria ( in comparison to Ontario, Canada), and the accessibility of both natural and cultural heritage. The state s stunning biodiversity, as well as a remarkable heritage of traditional and post-colonial history. Spoke about the importance of people to Parks Victoria. We cannot have conservation without visitation. The need to make sure successive generations of Victorians think our parks are important. Told the audience that Parks Victoria is the largest provider of nature-based tourism in Australia. The organisation is a huge economic driver for the state. Discussed the dangers of climate change, including the recent fires in Wye River. Climate change is likely to make the state drier; looking at the changing weather patterns that used to be standard and reliable. Emphasised the importance of story telling and its role in our society. The opportunity of Parks Victoria to do storytelling well; there are 40,000 years of people living here. The story of people landing in colonial settlements Nepean Conservation News

7 in Victoria in Point Nepean National Park is essentially the Ellis Island of Victoria. The natural heritage of this area is also a remarkable story. Mr Fauteaux answered lots of questions from the audience including around storytelling; resourcing PV; costs to the public; burn-offs; and engaging with Schools. He then stayed for the BYO everything picnic dinner on the parade ground. He and his family enjoyed meeting the NCG members as much as they enjoyed getting to know him and his family! Five ways to participate in World Environment Day Ref: Western Port Biosphere Newsletter: Connector Newsletter: Issue 9, April - June 2016 The United Nations World Environment Day (WED) is held on 5th June every year to encourage worldwide awareness and action for the environment. This year s theme is Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) says that the wellbeing of humanity, the environment, and the functioning of the economy, ultimately depend upon the responsible management of the planet s natural resources - however, people are consuming far more natural resources than the planet can sustainably provide. Living within our planet s limits is the most promising strategy for ensuring a healthy future. Human prosperity need not cost the earth. Living sustainably is about doing more and better with less. It is about knowing that rising rates of natural resource use and the environmental impacts that occur are not a necessary byproduct of economic growth. WED is an opportunity for everyone to take responsibility for caring for the Earth and to take action, no matter how small. So what can you do to contribute to World Environment Day? Here are five suggestions from the WED A to Z: 1. Bike to your destination! It s not just earth-friendly, it s healthy too! 2. Discover an alternative to using traditional wrapping paper for birthday gifts like scarves, old newspapers or discarded maps or magazines 3. Keep your recyclable bottles, bottle caps etc. Google ways to transform them into badges, games, household decorations, artwork and jewellery 4. Optimise the use of your washing machine use the cold-wash option and significantly save energy and reduce your daily carbon emissions 5. Vanish energy vampires - appliances that suck energy even when not being used - by unplugging them, using power boards with on/off switches or standby power controllers. For more practical ideas on how to get involved, visit the WED website. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 6

8 Volunteers Day held at The Briars Tuckey Track members, Alex, Marieta, Michael and Julie attended this most enjoyable and educational event. Approximately 50 volunteers from across the Mornington Peninsula participated. There are more opportunities coming up and I encourage you to contact The Shire Natural Systems Team, Tuckey Track Friends Group or Nepean Conservation Group for more information about these events. Members of Tuckey Track Friends Group recently attended the Nepean Conservation Group Friends Groups Social Gathering where participants exchanged news and views on their respective Land care areas. The success of this event ensures there will be more to come. TTFG committee is delighted to announce that the Birdlife Australia (Mornpen branch) monitoring program is beginning in early April. Max Burrows and David App-Thomas are coming to familiarise themselves with the 2km Tuckey Track. If you have any documented sightings of birds anywhere along the track, now is the time to let us know as we are compiling both a flora and fauna inventory for our Draft Management Plan. Our committee is very excited about this opportunity to have this esteemed organisation document the wide range of birds that live with us on the land and in the skies. Many 7 March 2016 of us may wish to join this worthy group whose work and data informs decision-making at a local and global level. For example, current monitoring at Tootgarook Wetlands provides valuable data on migratory birds. The Hooded Plover program is a particularly well known and locally important program. Summer provided some surprise sightings along Tuckey Track, with species nesting from Bass Strait, through the Coastal Moonah Woodlands to Port Phillip. Birdlife Australia plan to monitor TT over a period of 18 months. It promises to be an enriching and educational experience. As well the highly respected ecologist, Gidja Walker will commence a Flora and Fauna Guide for the TT Draft Management Plan after the next good rains. Walkers of Tuckey Track will be pleased to know that extra directive bollards will be installed in the reserve soon. We had numerous lost souls wandering Lady Nelson Drive over summer instead of following the Track to St Pauls Lookout. We are also following up helicopter issues, vegetation clearing and other matters, with the Shire and our councillors. We face challenges and opportunities along the interface of our public track with private land. Whist out and about, we are all able to stay informed through observation as well as through chatting on the tennis court, walking our dogs, on Nepean Conservation News

9 the beach, along the track or with the friendly neighbours we encounter over the fence or in community meetings. Recent engagement with one developer has resulted in landscaping works which are sympathetic with the open landscape character and aesthetic we are working to preserve along Tuckey Track. It is worth keeping in mind that Tuckey Track ecological corridor links with the Mornington Peninsula National Park, which in turn is integrated with Point Nepean National Park and their respective waters. Echidnas and Jacky dragons are often seen and even the occasional black wallaby has been observed in our patch. How amazing it would be if a white footed dunnart or southern brown bandicoot were to appear along our track one day. The key is preserving our biodiversity! Our final Working Bee for this financial year is Sunday 22nd May, 10.00am pm. Meet at the Pavilion. Julie Corridon Tuckey Track Friends Group Convenor Echidna. Photo: Ursula de Jong NCG Committee Updates The nominations received and accepted at the AGM were: Ruth Belfrage, Wayne Chamley, Mechelle Cheers, Edward Cohen, Rebecca Cohen, Julie Corridon, Ursula de Jong, Eddy de Jong, John Franklin, Ian Haskins, Lisa Howard, Sarah Patterson, Jill Robinson, John Trewarne. There were two retiring members: Rosie Tipping and Danielle Suffern. The NCG thanks both Rosie and Dan for their contribution to the work of the committee and to the NCG. NCG 2016 Committee President: Ursula de Jong Treasurer: Edward Cohen Secretariat: Wayne Chamley Members with specific portfolios: Minute Secretary: Jill Robinson Membership: John Franklin Biodiversity and Friends Groups Liaison: Sarah Patterson (with John Trewarne and Julie Corridon) Planning and Community: Mechelle Cheers (with NCG C ttee members as necessary) Community Coalition: Wayne Chamley, Mechelle Cheers, Julie Corridon Website: Eddy de Jong Newsletter Editor: Ursula de Jong, with contributions from all NCG C ttee members Newsletter production: Lisa Howard Special projects: Ruth Belfrage, Rebecca Cohen, Ian Haskins March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 8

10 Volunteer Links with Shire Nursery The Natural Systems Team would like to thank all for coming along to the morning tea at the Shire Nursery on Wednesday 24 February Your valuable contributions to a lively discussion and ideas about how we can better work together made for a great morning. It also provided an opportunity for members of different groups to meet each other (some for the first time) and share their local knowledge and enthusiasm. For those that couldn t make it on the day, a brief overview: Mayor Cr Graham Pittock opened proceedings with an acknowledgement of the valuable work done by environmental volunteers across the peninsula. Thank you to Cr Antonella Celi and Cr David Gibb for also attending. Simon Thorning (Natural Systems Team Leader) and Matt Stahmer (Natural Systems Volunteer Coordinator) talked briefly about the importance of local provenance seed collection to maintain genetic diversity when growing plants for re-vegetation and that the Shire Nursery is committed to continuing this approach in its production of indigenous plants. It was highlighted that the seed scouting, collection, cleaning, labelling and maintenance of the seed bank take up a large part of the Nursery team s time. Kate Skvor (Senior Nursery Officer) gave an excellent overview of the Nursery operation, giving an insight into how the team balances its commitment to produce over 100,000 high quality, locally indigenous plants per annum, in addition to a range of ornamental native plants, while providing an extensive range of community engagement opportunities. These include an ongoing volunteer program at the nursery, work experience placements, Green Army training, Work For the Dole, corporate volunteering, primary and secondary school activities and various trainee placements. Discussion opened up to all those attending and a range of local issues were raised. Strong interest was shown in increasing training and knowledge sharing opportunities for volunteers in friends and landcare groups. In response to feedback received from you, the Shire Nursery will be holding workshops for friends and landcare volunteers on a seasonal basis this year. There will be around 15 places available for each workshop. Those of you who put your names down with Matt will receive first priority but an RSVP via will still be required. Managing a Seed Bank seed cleaning, storage, labelling Thursday 28th April 10am-12pm Location: Shire Nursery RSVP by 18th April 9 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

11 Propagation of Indigenous Plants by Cuttings selecting cutting material, suitable growing mediums, cutting techniques Thursday 28th July 10am-12pm Location: Shire Nursery RSVP by 18th July General Propagation Tips and Techniques tubing up, pricking out, seed sowing techniques and treatments Thursday 29th September 10am- 12pm Location: Shire Nursery RSVP by 19th September Seed Collection of Indigenous Plants Thursday 1st December 10am-12pm Location: Briars Visitor s Center and Wildlife Sanctuary RSVP 14th November To secure your place, please let me know if you would like to attend (any or all) of these sessions. Laura Crilly, Natural Systems Community Projects officer, MPS T: E: laura.crilly@mornpen.vic.gov.au Biodiversity Forum - register now! Ref: Western Port Biosphere Newsletter: Connector Newsletter: Issue 9, April - June 2016 The inaugural Western Port Biosphere Biodiversity Forum in 2015 was a great success, with over 80 attendees. This year s Forum will be held on Friday 6th May at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, with a general theme of pest control. Professor John Woinarski, Deputy Director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub, National Environmental Science Programme at Charles Darwin University, will deliver the keynote presentation Reflections on the Ongoing Loss of our Biodiversity. Professor Woinarski has published extensively on the ecology and conservation of threatened species and his work has been recognised with many awards. The Western Port Biosphere will present updates from the Growing Connections and Water Stewardship projects. Some of our member councils and Landcare groups will present on their pest control activities, including limitations, learnings and improvements. They will also host display stands during the lunch break where you can get more information and ask questions. The Forum is a great opportunity to learn about biodiversity in the Western Port Biosphere Reserve, share knowledge and make connections with like-minded people. Entry to the Biodiversity Forum is free; however bookings are essential as seating is limited, and also for catering purposes. For more information, or to book your seat, please admin@biosphere.org.au RSVP: Friday 22nd April Light refreshments will be provided so please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 10

12 Calling Ground, Police Point Shire Park. Photo: Ursula de Jong. Friends Groups Networking Three members of the NCG committee, Sarah Patterson, John Trewarne and Julie Corridon, work on a subcommittee to support the eleven Friends Groups of the Nepean Peninsula who are associated under the NCG umbrella. The aim is to visit Friends Groups working bees and meetings at various times during the year to remain in contact with the volunteers and be aware of the progress they are making and barriers they may be experiencing. As the NCG committee remains in the loop of the broader government and environmental picture, we can also pass on information and offer advice on matters of relevance to the Friends Groups. As a component of the support provided this year, the subcommittee has initiated networking meetings. The first meeting was held in January with a relaxed social gathering attended by around 25 members of our various Friends Groups. Our aim is to organise four gatherings per year. We propose holding the future gatherings on a weekend morning or early afternoon. At these meetings we will enjoy refreshments and a relaxed presentation. The current proposed topics are, Introduction to Grasses of the Nepean Peninsula and Setting up the Citizen Science Membership to Bower Bird. If there are any topics that members would like to investigate, please contact the subcommittee. These meetings are for all NCG Friends Group volunteers, including their families and friends - some who may not yet be members of the NCG. We look forward to supporting your Friends Group this year. Sarah, Julie and John New Mornington Peninsula Produce certified trademark Ref: Western Port Biosphere Newsletter: Connector Newsletter: Issue 9, April - June 2016 An initiative designed to help consumers identify authentic produce grown or produced entirely on the Mornington Peninsula was launched in March Mornington Peninsula Produce (MPP) is a certified trademark, developed by Mornington Peninsula Shire and the Food Industry Advisory Body, which can only be used by farmers who grow their produce in the Mornington Peninsula Shire. MPP has the legal 11 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

13 backing of the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission (ACCC). Around one third of our land is devoted to agricultural production, and the Mornington Peninsula is the second most valuable agricultural region in Victoria, producing at least 15 per cent of the state s agricultural wealth from less than four per cent of the state s farmland, Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor Graham Pittock told guests at the launch of the MPP trademark. The Peninsula produces an array of delicious produce, from avocados to artichokes, broccoli to beetroot, herbs to heirloom vegetables, apples to Asian greens, pears and plum, potatoes and parsnips, goats milk & cheese, lamb, beef, mussels, chicken, free range eggs, salad mix, truffles, olives and garlic. Registered producers will be authorised to use the MPP logo on their products, and their produce will be searchable on the MPP website. Increasingly, people want to know where their food is grown and how, who grows it and how far it has travelled. The MPP trademark will make it far easier for locals and visitors alike to identify the provenance of food when they are purchasing from local markets, farmgate and retail outlets, as well as further afield. More information: visit the mpproduce website. NCG Membership The NCG is off to a good start in 2016 with a great AGM and renewals for 2016 coming in steadily. Many members took advantage of their presence at the AGM to renew their membership. In early March, about 67% of memberships were financial for There were a few memberships paid to 2014 by the end of last year and those memberships have been put aside until, and if, those past members wish to re apply (we would welcome them back whole heartedly). The next Newsletter will come out this month and members should note that if there copy of the Newsletter has NO reminder label on the front, then they are fully paid up until at least Those who have not renewed will see a reminder label on the front page. We also welcome 8 new members for 2016, namely: Kerry McNamara, Hilary Hall, Michael Franklin-Jones, Roslyn Slater & Mick Sanders, Terence Gleeson, Baren Frielink, David Gibson and Paul & Robyn Delany. Any questions on membership, including questions on when fees have been paid to, should be directed to John Franklin on / John Franklin Membership March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 12

14 Red Spotted Jezebel (Delias aganippie) feeding on Moonah. Photo : Julie Corridon Peninsula Bursting with life Red spotted Jezebel (Delias aganippie) This beautiful and relatively large (up to 7cm wingspan ) Australian butterfly was first noted by members in the bush along the back beach of Rye on drooping mistletoe in mid January. Over the next 2 months the number of butterflies sighted has exploded with many seen at the Tuckey Track Reserve and a large group seen floating on the breeze at Point Nepean National Park. The striking butterfly is black and white with a grey forewing (male) or cream forewing (female) from above when flying. From below and when stationary the bright red and yellow spots are seen on the hind 13 March 2016 wing. The butterfly breeds on the native mistletoe indigenous to the peninsula ) and is in flight over summer to early autumn. Coast Banksia (Banksia Integrifolia Subsp Integrifolia) The Coast Banksia is found along the east coast of Australia and was one of the trees likely recorded by Mathew Flinders botanist Robert Brown in 1802 and in following reports by early settlers who often described it as Honeysuckle. The Coast Banksia grows in the sheltered northern areas and beaches of the Nepean Peninsula, although there are several very tall and beautiful old trees along the Old Melbourne Road. The leaves are soft green above with a white underside and wobbly edge. Over the past months these trees have been Nepean Conservation News

15 covered with bright creamy yellow flower spikes which are made up of several hundred flowers densely packed in a spiral around a woody axis. After flowering the old flower parts turn brown and fall away revealing the cone, the woody axis with varying numbers of fertilised follicles containing the seeds that will burst open next season. (Ref: Moxham C., Sinclair S., Walker G. & Douglas I. 2009, The Vegetation of the Nepean Peninsula, Victoria an historical perspective Cunninghamia 11( 1) 27-47). Sarah Patterson New Friends Group for Slips Reserve Slips Reserve in Blairgowrie has entrances from Stringer Rd, McFarlane Ave and Fawkner Ave. It is 0.6 H and has examples of most vegetation native to the Southern Peninsula. The Friends Group, re-started by Blairgowrie community group Community 3942 is keen to eradicate weeds from the area and to propagate as many Southern Peninsula native species as possible. The Reserve was declared in 2000, after an application was made by Ian Haskins, President of the of the Nepean Conservation Group. The reserve was named in honour of Reuben Schlipalius. Mr Schlipalius father William had started making ice cream in the 1920s, selling it Mature banksia in full flower. Photo Sarah Patterson from a horse drawn cart. His sons Reuben and Albert continued the business along the foreshore from 1940 to They also operated a milk bar in Sorrento that was widely known as Slippy s. William Schlipalius s family came to Australia from Dresden in The ice cream was manufactured in a small factory at 38 Hotham Road using a diesel powered churn. Reuben who died in 1983 was a foundation member of Sorrento Rotary Club and also involved with the Sorrento Football Club, the Sorrento Fire Brigade, the Sorrento Bowling Club and the Portsea Golf Club. Neil Schlipalius, a descendent, lives in Blairgowrie close to the reserve. He is only known as Slip. Chris Ekinsmyth Convenor, Friends of Slips Reserve March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 14

16 Planning updates Point Nepean National Park The NCG attended the sessions held at PNNP on the 5 and 6 February. The NCG committee met with PV and Shelley Penn (advisor to the Minister) for 90 minutes on the Saturday for a frank and full discussion. We submitted a substantive response to the review of the 2010 master plan in early March. We look forward to receiving the new Master Plan in due course, with a further review in June/ July Mornington Peninsula Shire Planning review On 23 March 2016 David Bergin wrote to the NCG and other community groups across the Shire. He wrote to inform us about the project he has been asked to undertake at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. Alison Leighton (COO) and Carl Cowie (CEO) appointed David Bergin to undertake a review of the planning services function (including Statutory, Strategic, Compliance & Admin Support). The review is proposed to be undertaken over a 12-week period and will involve Councilors, staff members, the planning industry and various community groups (ourselves). David Bergin provided a short summary of his career to date: consists of over 20 years of statutory and strategic planning experience in Local government, State government and the private sector. I have extensive Point Nepean National Park. Photo: PV. experience in local government roles in both the country and metropolitan Victoria, having worked at Swan Hill, Boroondara and Mitchell. Most recently I have been the Southern Metro Regional Planning Manager at the State government for the past six and a half years. A meeting was proposed for 31 March 2016 for interested community groups. The NCG attended this group meeting with David Bergin, along with representatives of eight other groups from across the Shire, to discuss how the planning unit at Mornington Peninsula Shire performs. The agenda covered the Shire s approach to planning broadly, and more specifically Statutory Planning, Planning Compliance and Strategic Planning matters. We were informed that David Bergin had already met with the Councillors, the staff, the Chamber of Commerce and internal customers (engineering, economic development and 15 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

17 environmental policy divisions). We were told there was only three weeks left to finalise the report. The NCG hopes the outcomes (a smoother system internally) will be a beneficial investment in the long run for an improved planning service for all communities on the Mornington Peninsula. We were advised that, during the review period Niall Sheehy, Paul Lewis and Allan Cowley will remain the key contacts for Statutory Planning, Planning Compliance and Strategic Planning matters respectively. The NCG has identified the following issues: Inconsistency in decision making; Timely decision making is rare; Can rarely speak to the same person twice concerning a particular issue; High turn over of staff; Objections to permit/ planning applications are not fully addressed (rarely are reasons given); Poor compliance strategies - too many things are considered gray areas; poor / nonexistent enforcement; Internal interdepartmental hand-balling of issues; Retrospective permits following non compliance. Continental Hotel Sorrento The permit application is to develop alterations and additions (including demolition) to the existing building, develop twenty-four (24) new hotel rooms, a four (4) storey building comprising sixteen (16) dwellings with communal rooftop area, use Continental Hotel, Sorrento. Photo: Ursula de Jong. and development of the site for a restricted recreation facility (wellness centre), which includes gym, cafe, change rooms, offices and terrace with lap pool, development of a two level basement car park with fiftysix (56) spaces, a public car park with twenty-five (25) car spaces, a reduction of the car parking requirements of clause and a variation to the loading requirements of clause 52.07, and associated works, generally in accordance with the submitted plans. The application reference number is P15/2392 and is viewable on the MPS website. The NCG committee has viewed this development proposal in detail and, in summary, we are submitting an objection on the grounds of over development of the site; the impact of the proposal on the heritage integrity of the building; and the impact on the site lines from the sea, and from Ocean Beach Road. The Continental Hotel is on the VHR and is an iconic building in the historic coastal town of Sorrento. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 16

18 School Environment Week Briars Mornington The week March 2016 was the annual school environment week at the Briars, Mornington, sponsored by the Mornington Peninsula Shire. Approximately 950 children from schools across the peninsula including Sorrento, Tootgarook, Crib Point, Mornington and Mt Eliza visited the site. Tents were set up to house the various participants. These included Bunnings giving plants; Bluescope Steel exhibiting house-hold drainage filtering debris from rainwater flows, guttering etc and a commercial to have drainage filters for creeks etc. Friends of Hooded plover were giving a pin on badge. Other groups included SPIFFA exhibiting nesting boxes and different habitats housing living creatures. There were live animal exhibits including snakes. Friends of Chinaman Creek had a focus on frogs and ran a screen printing workshop for each child to print a frog on a T-shirt. They also taught children frog calls simulating an army of frogs when all calling together. Toilets provided were Compost Toilets which freaked out many students. The set up of these provided an alternative to septic and sewerage and the lady manning the set up has one at her house in Richmond. Groups went through in an orderly fashion: classes were accompanied by a teacher or supervisor Apart from horrific winds the first couple of days the event was very successful and the eager countenance on the children s faces was a joy to see. A thank you to rotary for providing lunch each day for the volunteers manning the exhibits and also to senior students from secondary schools who were delegated to help out with the different organisations. This is a fabulous way for children to engage with the environment and it was surprising how much knowledge many exhibited. Did you know frogs sleep with their eyes open and help digest their food by blinking with their eyeballs which push into their throats? See you there next year!! John Trewarne Autumn Ramble The next NCG ramble is on Sunday 17 April - it will be a heritage walk along Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, from the Bay to Bass Strait. Meet 9.45am for a 10.00am sharp start, at the Park at Stringer s Corner (opposite Stringer s Store and diagonally opposite the Continental Hotel). 17 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

19 Surfer s dog left alone for hours. Photo: Ursula de Jong Protecting Mornington Peninsula s Threatened Species Media release The Hon Lisa Neville MP 12 March 2016 The Andrews Labor Government has moved to protect and preserve Mornington Peninsula s National Park by implementing a ban to dogs from 1 November In 2013, Parks Victoria restricted dog walking to only 14.5km of the entire 42km national park coastline area, paired with increased dog prohibition. Last year, Parks Victoria carried out review of dog access which resulted in additional compliance in the park as ongoing impacts to fauna and the Hooded Plover was clearly demonstrated. Since further dog restrictions were introduced in 2013, Hooded Plover breeding has been markedly unsuccessful with only 5 chicks fledging from a total of 245 eggs during the 2 breading seasons. Victoria s park network plays a vitally important role in conserving nature, including providing habitats for ninety-one percent of the state s 306 listed rare and threatened terrestrial animal species and ninety percent of Victoria s 1,857 listed rare and threatened plant species. Birdlife Australia monitoring data from the Mornington Peninsula National Parks show that 70% of Hooded Plover chicks were successfully fledged in areas where dogs are prohibited. Parks Victoria will work with the community to implement the ban over the coming months leading in to summer. Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville said: Even though restrictions were tightened in 2013, sadly we re still seeing a large number of people walking their dogs in ecologically sensitive areas where Hooded Plovers breed. She reiterated that The evidence shows that dogs and Hooded Plovers don t mix. This ban is the right decision to protect a vulnerable and threatened species for which the Mornington Peninsula National Park is an important habitat. Editor s note: the NCG has campaigned for many years to ban dogs in our National Park. The Mornington Peninsula National Park has been an anomaly, as the only National Park which allowed dogs in the past. Restrictions were often not complied with, which has meant that endangered flora and fauna has been put under pressure and in the case of the hooded plover under threat of extinction. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 18

20 Young kites. Photo: P&R Doery Whistling Kites in Blairgowrie My husband, Richard and I have owned a place on the Peninsula for many years, but have only both retired down here over the past 12 months. I am a novice birdwatcher but am very interested in learning more about local bird-life. You may be interested in the pair of whistling kites that have nested in a large pine tree on family property next to our place. Last year they had three babies, but only two survived. The babies fledged a few weeks ago and have been happily learning to hunt around our area since then. Sometimes they are joined by their parents, which means that four kites are wheeling in the thermals above. We were able to get a couple of pictures of the babies late last year. We have a large one hectare block, where we are trying to encourage whatever native birds we can. Luckily, we seem to have a lot, even if I am ignorant as to many of the names. Penny and Richard Doery Cotoneaster abundant on the Nepean Peninsula. Photo: opensource public domain. Woody environmental weed - Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster glaucophyllus) The cotoneaster (introduced from China) is an attractive tall shrub to small tree (1.5 to 4 metres) that is frequently seen being cared for in gardens of the Nepean Peninsula. It is also an extensive invader of bush areas and roadsides, due to the plant readily establishing itself. Its vigorous growth habit quickly out competes our indigenous vegetation. The cotoneaster is identified from its dark stems with oval shaped dark green above and light leaves below that form a canopy. In spring to summer clusters of small attractive bunches of tiny cream / white flowers appear on hairy stems. The flowers 19 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

21 are followed by bunches of small bright red berries in autumn/winter. The red berries are attractive for children to pick. Cotoneaster berries are toxic if eaten in large quantities, especially by children. The first flowers and fruit are produced once the plant is 2-3 years old (20cm tall). The plant will not reproduce until this time. The environmental risk from this plant is extensive due to seed spreading widely from a single plant, vigorous growth habit, difficulty of removal and the ongoing perception of this woody weed being a safe garden plant. Many hybrids exist and are sold commercially as ornamental garden plants. The seeds are spread through birds eating the berries. This allows the seeds to be spread over a considerable distance from the parent plant. The blackbird is strongly associated with cotoneaster and moves into an area where it grows. The blackbird then also spreads other berry forming woody weeds ie pittosporum. Thus there is real environmental danger from isolated healthy plants remaining in residential gardens, parks and roadsides. The cotoneaster plant has an extensive and strong root system. While very young plants can be uprooted with hand weeding, once established, the plant is hard to pull out. Cutting stems without poisoning will result in extensive re sprouting - invigorating the plant. Established plants can be cut close to the ground and the stumps must be painted immediately with 1 part herbicide: 10 parts water (the dilution enhances absorption). Generic glyphosate has been found more effective than Roundup as it does not contain additives that lead to unwanted froth/foam. Ensure all safety procedures are followed when handling herbicides. If a specimen is too big to deal with all at once, containment by pruning branches before flowering will buy eleven months of time before the next flowering. The carpet of seedlings that emerge after removal of the mother plant can be manually removed, smothered with mulch or black plastic or sprayed with diluted glyphosate as described. Action - Remove all cotoneaster from your garden and nature strip. Encourage others to remove and Friends Groups to make management a priority. Sarah Patterson and John Trewarne Cotoneaster abundant on the Nepean Peninsula. Photo: opensource public domain. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 20

22 NCG FRIENDS GROUPS CONTACTS LIST FRIENDS GROUPS SUPPORT SUBCOMMITTEE LIAISON OFFICERS: Sarah Patterson Julie Corridon FIELD OFFICER: John Trewarne OFFICER: Danielle Suffern Contact: AUTHORITIES Mornington Peninsula Shire Matt Stahmer: Friends Groups Volunteer Coordinator (Nature Links) Danielle Suffern Parks Victoria Kris Rowe: Mornington Peninsula Area Officer FRIENDS GROUPS ASSOCIATED WITH NCG FRIENDS OF BRIDGEWATER BAY Blairgowrie (Melway 167 D4) SHIRE CONTACT: Kate Wright-Smith ; FRIENDS OF DIAMOND BAY Sorrento (Melway 157 B11) PARKS 2nd Friday each month at 9.30 am CONTACT: Richard Holland FRIENDS OF DIMMICKS BUSHLAND RESERVE Blairgowrie (Melway 167 G7) SHIRE 1st Sunday each month at 10am CONTACT: Keith Murley FRIENDS OF E.G. RITCHIE MEMORIAL BUSHLAND RESERVE Blairgowrie (Melway167 D5) SHIRE 1st Sunday every month 9:00-11:00 am CONTACT: Margaret Finger ; Ursula de Jong nepeanconservationgroup.org.au FRIENDS OF HOODED PLOVER Mornington Peninsula PARKS CONTACT: Diane Lewis ; FRIENDS OF SID BAKER BUSHLAND RESERVE Blairgowrie (Melway 167 E4) SHIRE 3rd Sunday alternate months 10-12pm CONTACT: Suzie Mac Farlane FRIENDS OF SPRAY POINT WILD COAST CONSERVATION GROUP INC. Blairgowrie (Melway 167 B2) SHIRE AND PARKS Annual plantings and Working Bees CONTACT: Ann Hayman FRIENDS OF SULLIVAN BAY AND WESTERN SISTER Sorrento (Melway 157 F1) SHIRE 4th Friday each month at 2.00pm CONTACT: Richard Holland ; John Franklin TUCKEY TRACK FRIENDS GROUP Sorrento (Melway 157 D10) SHIRE AND PARKS CONTACT: Julie Corridon hotmail.com FRIENDS OF SLIPS RESERVE Blairgowrie (Melway 167 CD1) SHIRE The second Monday of each month from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. CONTACT: Chris Ekinsmyth Phone: OTHER FRIENDS GROUPS: FRIENDS OF TYRONE FORESHORE White Cliffs and Camerons Bight Foreshore Reserve Committee of Management Once a month alternating Saturdays and Sundays CONTACT: Terese Dalman: teresedalman@gmail.com 21 March 2016 Nepean Conservation News

23 NEPEAN CONSERVATION GROUP INC (formerly Sorrento-Portsea-Blairgowrie Conservation group Inc) ABN Reg. No. AOO 2079IU PO Box 157, Sorrento, 3943 nepeanconservationgroup.org.au Above: Bay of Islands Arch, before it collapsed in March Photo: Rob Varney. Below: NCG are seeking funding for the publication of the Indigenous Plant Brochure. March 2016 Nepean Conservation News 22

24 NEPEAN CONSERVATION GROUP INC ABN Reg. No. AOO 2079IU PO Box 157, Sorrento,