Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve...Bellingen Island Integrated Reserves Prepared for: Bellingen...

q u a l i t y s o l u t i o n s s u s t a i n a b l e f u t u r e

Plan o f Managem ent Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve

Plan o f Management Bellingen Island Integrated Reserves

Prepared for: Bellingen Shire Council

Version History

UPR Description Date Issued Issued By Reviewed By

1723032

1723280

1723394

1723394

Draft

Final Draft

Final

Final amended

06/08/2011

05/06/2012

13/06/2012

20/06/2012

David Andrighetto

David Andrighetto

Simon Waterworth

Kim Casson

Simon Williams

Simon Waterworth

Kim Casson

Simon Waterworth

1723-2001 Final amended v2 05/12/2012 Maree Walo Simon Waterworth

1723-2001 Final amended v3 06/12/2012 Kim Casson Simon Waterworth

1723-2002 Final 18/12/2012 Cate Walsh Simon Waterworth

© GeoLINK, 2012

PO Box 119 Lennox Head NSW 2478

T 02 6687 7666

PO Box 1446 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

T 02 6651 7666

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Table of Contents

Plan of Management: Bellingen Island Bellingen Island Integrated Reserves 1723-2002

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Executive Summary…………………………………………………………………………………………………… v

1 Introduction 1

1.1 Preface .......................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Location ......................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.3 Tenure and Categorisation of the Land ....................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Aims, Objectives and Performance Targets ................................................................................................ 5

2 The Natural Environment 9

2.1 Topography, Geology and Soils ................................................................................................................... 9

2.1.1 Existing Environment ............................................................................................................................... 9

2.1.2 Management Issues ................................................................................................................................. 9

2.2 Climate......................................................................................................................................................... 13

2.2.1 Existing Environment ............................................................................................................................. 13

2.2.2 Management Issues ............................................................................................................................... 13

2.3 Flora ............................................................................................................................................................. 15



2.4 Fauna: Flying-foxes .................................................................................................................................... 22

2.4.1 Flying-fox Camps ................................................................................................................................... 22

2.4.2 Reserve Values ...................................................................................................................................... 22


2.5 Fauna: Other Significant Species .............................................................................................................. 25



3 The Cultural Environment 29

3.1 History.......................................................................................................................................................... 29

3.1.1 Indigenous History.................................................................................................................................. 29

3.1.2 European History .................................................................................................................................... 29

3.2 Land Uses and Community Values ........................................................................................................... 30

3.2.1 The Point................................................................................................................................................. 30

3.2.2 River Place Reserve .............................................................................................................................. 31

3.2.3 Old Bellingen Caravan Park .................................................................................................................. 32


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3.2.4 Bellingen Island ...................................................................................................................................... 34

4 Legislation and Policy 35

4.1 Commonwealth Government Legislation and Policy ................................................................................ 35

4.1.1 Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation act 1999 .................................................... 35

4.2 State Government Legislation and Policy ................................................................................................. 35

4.2.1 Local Government Act 1993 ....................................................................................................................... 35

4.2.2 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 ........................................................................................................ 37

4.2.3 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995............................................................................................. 37

4.2.4 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ................................................................................. 37

4.2.5 Crown Lands Act 1989 ............................................................................................................................... 37

4.3 Local Government Legislation and Policy ................................................................................................. 38

4.3.1 Bellingen Local Environmental Plan 2010 ................................................................................................. 38

5 Action Plan 41

Illustrations Illustration 1.1 Site Locality .............................................................................................................. 3

Illustration 1.2 Aerial Photo .............................................................................................................. 4

Illustration 2.1 Active Erosion Sites ................................................................................................. 12

Illustration 2.2 Vegetation Map ....................................................................................................... 19

Illustration 4.1 Bellingen LEP 2010 ................................................................................................. 39

Illustration 5.1 Proposed Viewing Platform ....................................................................................... 54


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Tables Table 1.1 Reserve Tenure and Categorisations under the Local Government Act 1993.............................. 2

Table 2.1 Climate Data for Bellingen (Post Office) .............................................................................. 13

Table 2.2 Known or Potentially Occurring Threatened Fauna ............................................................... 25

Table 2.3 Habitat Values of the Reserve for Known / Potentially Occurring Migratory Species .................. 28

Table 4.1 Local Government Act 1993 Requirements ......................................................................... 35

Table 4.2 Local Government Act 1993 Requirements ......................................................................... 36

Table 5.1 Action Plan ..................................................................................................................... 43

Plates Plate 2.1 Eroded southern bank viewed to the west ........................................................................... 10

Plate 2.2 Eroded southern bank viewed east .................................................................................... 10

Plate 2.3 Scoured pool at the toe of the storm water drain outlet .......................................................... 11

Plate 2.4 Slumped bank ................................................................................................................ 11

Plate 2.5 Core area of remnant lowland floodplain rainforest ............................................................... 15

Plate 2.6 Riparian rainforest at The Point ......................................................................................... 16

Plate 2.7 Old Bellingen Caravan Park site ........................................................................................ 16

Plate 2.8 Parkland area of River Place Reserve ................................................................................ 16

Plate 2.9 Mown grassland at The Point ............................................................................................ 17

Plate 2.10 Carpark and associated garden at The Point ....................................................................... 17

Plate 2.11 Weedy shrubland / grassland at the eastern end of Bellingen Island ....................................... 17

Plate 2.12 Weedy shrubland / grassland along the Bellinger River with a small stand of regrowth River Oak 17

Plate 2.13 Weedy shrubland / grassland at the western end of Bellingen Island ....................................... 18

Plate 2.14 Recent plantings in the weedy shrubland / grassland at the western end of Bellingen Island ....... 18

Plate 2.15 Grey-headed Flying-foxes roosting at the old caravan park site .............................................. 24

Plate 3.1 Walking track down to the river at The Point ........................................................................ 31


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Plate 3.2 Carpark and managed lawns ............................................................................................ 31

Plate 3.3 River Place Reserve viewed from Dowle Street ................................................................... 32

Plate 3.4 Trees overhanging adjacent dwellings off River Place ........................................................... 32

Plate 3.5 Old amenities block and access loop road off Dowle Street ................................................... 32

Plate 3.6 Existing interpretative signage ........................................................................................... 32

Plate 3.7 Typical view of the old caravan park site ............................................................................. 33

Plate 3.8 View of the old caravan park site from Dowle Street ............................................................. 33

Appendices A Possible Funding Sources and Useful Websites

Executive Summary


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This Plan of Management (PoM) aims to provide direction for the future management of Bellingen Island, the old Bellingen Caravan Park site, River Place Reserve and The Point Reserve (referred to as the ‘Integrated Reserve’ or the ‘Reserve’) for the next 10 years. It has been prepared pursuant to the provisions of Division 2 of the Local Government Act 1993. Management objectives and actions are based on current social and environmental values, and legislative responsibilities. The Reserve has been used as a place of public recreation and biodiversity conservation since early European settlement in the area in the mid 1800’s (formally recognised in 1900) and these values are still relevant today. The Reserve is located along the Bellinger River and exists within a flood prone alluvial landscape. It forms part of the river ‘meander belt’ and a zone of active overbank flow. Key biodiversity values of the Reserve include:

remnant lowland rainforest on Bellingen Island and riparian rainforest along the old river channel to the north and at The Point. This vegetation constitutes the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) listed Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) Lowland Rainforest on floodplain in the NSW North Coast Bioregion; and the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) Critically Endangered ecological community Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia. The remnant lowland rainforest on Bellingen Island is the largest remaining remnant of this community in the lower Bellingen area; and

the Reserve supports one of most important flying-fox camps in NSW. It is used primarily by the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) which is listed as Vulnerable under Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The Black Flying-fox (Pteropus alecto) and Little Red Flying-fox (Pteropus scapulatus) also occur on occasions. The Reserve constitutes roosting habitat critical to the survival of the Grey-headed Flying-fox in the Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox (DECCW 2009).

The Reserve provides known or potential habitat for a number of other threatened and migratory species listed under the TSC Act and / or EPBC Act. The vegetation also provides important environmental functions such as river bank stability and water filtering. The Reserve has and continues to play an important role in the Bellingen conservation, social and recreation culture. Parts of the Reserve continue to be used for passive recreation such as swimming and picnicking. It has also been an active volunteer bush regeneration site for over 25 years. The historical values of the Reserve are locally recognised in the Bellingen Local Environmental Plan 2010. A review of the threats to the environmental and cultural values of the Reserve was undertaken and corresponding management actions were compiled into an Action Plan. An integrated approach to manage vegetation restoration and regeneration works, humans, flying-foxes and their interactions was recognised. The following high priority actions were identified:

Action 1.1: Finalise and obtain council endorsement of the Vegetation Management Plan.

Action 1.2: Obtain funding to implement Vegetation Management Plan.

Action 1.3: Obtain legislative approvals for implementation of VMP.

Action 1.4: Undertake riparian restoration using principles of Estuary Action Plan.

Action 1.7: Manage exotic fauna.

Action 1.8: Develop hygiene protocols for on-ground works personnel.

Action 1.12: Investigate opportunities for artificial flying-fox roosting structures.

Action 2.1: Undertake erosion management works at the storm water drain outlet, Bellingen Island east.

Action 2.2: Undertake erosion management works at the slumped bank on the east side of Bellingen Island.


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Action 2.3: Back stability and erosion monitoring.

Action 3.5: Investigate opportunities to establish a community sustainability living and learning centre at the old Bellingen Caravan Park Site.

Action 4.1: Community information and education.

Action 4.2: Reduce human / flying-fox conflicts for adjacent residents through vegetation management.

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Introduction 1 1

1.1 Preface

Bellingen Island, also known as Bat Island, has long been a significant part of the Bellingen community and landscape for its environmental (particularly lowland floodplain rainforest remnant and flying-fox camp) and social values. This is reflected by the early reservation by the Crown of the central and eastern portions of the island for Public Recreation and Preservation of Native Flora in 1900. Today these are still key underlying principles to which the island and adjacent river banks are managed and valued. However management practices to achieve these goals have evolved substantially as community values and the ecological functioning of the island has changed. For example, Willows were planted along the water’s edge as shade trees (Lunney and Moon 1996) and are now seen as a threat to the floristic diversity and integrity of the Bellinger River riparian zone. As at most urban flying-fox camps, the flying-foxes were once discouraged from roosting on Bellingen Island (including being shot at – Lunney and Moon 1996). The colony is now however generally embraced by the Bellingen community for its significant ecological role and as an eco-tourism attraction. The closure of the Bellingen Caravan Park to the north of Bellingen Island is another example of how changes in community and cultural values result in changes to land use management. Changes in policy as a result of concerns for public safety, asset protection and public liability in relation to the flooding risk resulted in the closure of the Caravan Park and identification of passive ‘Public Recreation’ as the most appropriate land use for the site. This Plan of Management (PoM) aims to provide direction for the future management of Bellingen Island, the former Bellingen caravan park site, adjoining Council owned and managed reserves (River Place Reserve, The Point Reserve) and a crown reserve for the next 10 years based on current social and environmental values, and legislative responsibilities. To achieve this, an integrated approach to vegetation management, restoration and regeneration works, humans, flying-foxes and their interactions is required. This PoM has been prepared pursuant to the provisions of Division 2 of the Local Government Act 1993.

1.2 Location

This PoM applies to three adjoining Crown reserves, two Council reserves: Bellingen Island, former Bellingen Caravan Park site, former alignment of the Bellinger River, River Place Reserve (also referred to as Cedar Park), and The Point Reserve.. Collectively, these parcels of land are termed Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve (or the Reserve). The Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve is located near the centre of Bellingen, on the northern bank of the Bellinger River. It is located directly upstream (west) of Lavender’s Bridge (refer to Illustration 1.1 and 1.2). The Reserve is bound by the Bellinger River to the south and west, residential lots to the north and Hammond Street to the east. The total area of the Reserve is 9 ha. Bellingen is located on the NSW Mid-North Coast, in the Bellingen Shire Council (BSC) Local Government Area (LGA).


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1.3 Tenure and Categorisation of the Land

Ownership and trusteeship of the Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve (the Reserve) is detailed in Table 1.1 below. Table 1.1 also identifies how each of the reserves has been categorised pursuant to Section 36 of the Local Government Act 1993: Table 1.1 Reserve Tenure and Categorisations under the Local Government Act 1993

Reserve Name Tenure Lot and DP Categories

Bellingen Island Crown Land

Reserve Number: 30812

Notification Purpose: Preservation of Native Flora and Public Recreation

Trust Manager: Bellingen Shire Council

Lot 165, 166 and 168 DP 755557; Lot 595 DP 728265; and Lot 604 and portion of 606 DP 1066291.

Category

Natural Area and Area of Cultural Significance

Sub-categories

Bushland, Foreshore and Watercourse

River Place Reserve

Freehold held in ownership by Bellingen Shire Council.

Designated as Community Land

Lot 29 DP261442 Category

Park

Sub-categories

Not applicable

The Point Freehold held in ownership by Bellingen Shire Council

Designated as Community Land

Lot 7 877059 Category

Park and Natural Area

Sub-categories

Foreshore

Former Bellingen

Caravan Park

Crown Land

Reserve Number 84655

Notification Purpose: Public Recreation

Trust Manager: Bellingen Shire Council

Lot 1 B DP5564

Lot 2 B DP5564

Lot 3 B DP5564

Lot 4 B DP5564

Lot 5 B DP5564

Category

Natural Area

Sub-categories

Bushland and Foreshore

Former Bellingen

Caravan Park

Freehold held in ownership by Bellingen Shire Council

Lot 6 B DP5564

Lot 7 B DP5564

Category

Natural Area

Sub-categories

Bushland and Foreshore

Former Alignment of the Bellinger River

Part of Coexisting Crown Reserve 56146 reserved from sale or lease, gazetted 11 May 1923, and Crown Reserve 1011268 for Future Public Requirements, Gazetted 3 February 2006. This Reserve is under the Management of Department of Primary Industries Catchments and Lands

Not applicable Category

Natural Area

Sub-categories

Bushland, Watercourse Foreshore

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Plan of Management: Bellingen Island Bellingen Island Integrated Reserves1723149

Illustration

Site Locality

North 1.1

Drawn by: DSA Checked by: RE Reviewed by: DSA Date: May 2011Source of base data: Topographic Map - Bellingen 9437-2-SInformation shown is for illustrative purposes only

L E G E N D The Reserve

Bellinger River

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Illustration

Aerial Photo

North 1.2

Drawn by: DSA Checked by: RE Reviewed by: DSA Date: May 2011Source of base data: Google EarthInformation shown is for illustrative purposes only

L E G E N D The ReserveOld Bellingen Caravan ParkRiver Place ReserveThe PointBellingen Island Reserve

Bellinger River

Red

Ledg

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Rive

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Dowle Street

Ham

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Stre

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James

Eathe

r Way

North Bellingen


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1.4 Aims, Objectives and Performance Targets

The aim of this plan is to provide strategic guidelines for effective management of the Reserves as places for public recreation and biodiversity conservation for the next 10 years. Division 2 of the Local Government Act sets out the core objectives for the various categories for management of community lands. The following core objectives are adopted for management of the Reserve. Core Objectives

Core objectives for management of community land categorised as a natural area are:

1. to conserve biodiversity and maintain ecosystem function in respect of the land, or the feature or habitat in respect of which the land is categorised as a natural area;

2. to maintain the land, or that feature or habitat, in its natural state and setting;

3. to provide for the restoration and regeneration of the land;

4. to provide for community use of and access to the land in such a manner as will minimise and mitigate any disturbance caused by human intrusion; and

5. to assist in and facilitate the implementation of any provisions restricting the use and management of the land that are set out in a recovery plan or threat abatement plan prepared under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) or the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act).

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as a park are:

6. to encourage, promote and facilitate recreational, cultural, social and educational pastimes and activities;

7. to provide for passive recreational activities or pastimes and for the casual playing of games; and

8. to improve the land in such a way as to promote and facilitate its use to achieve the other core objectives for its management.

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as an area of cultural significance are:

9. to retain and enhance the cultural significance of the area (namely its Aboriginal, aesthetic, archaeological, historical, technical or research or social significance) for past, present or future generations by the active use of conservation methods.

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as general community use are:

10. to improve the land in such a way as to promote and facilitate its use to achieve the other core objectives for its management;

11. to promote, encourage and provide for the use of the land, and to provide facilities on the land, to meet the current and future needs of the local community and of the wider public:

- in relation to public recreation and the physical, cultural, social and intellectual welfare or development of individual members of the public, and

- in relation to purposes for which a lease, license or other estate may be granted in respect of the land (other than the provision of public utilities and works associated with or ancillary to public utilities).


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The core objectives for management of community land categorised as bushland are:

12. to ensure the ongoing ecological viability of the land by protecting the ecological biodiversity and habitat values of the land, the flora and fauna (including invertebrates, fungi and micro-organisms) of the land and other ecological values of the land;

13. to protect the aesthetic, heritage, recreational, educational and scientific values of the land;

14. to promote the management of the land in a manner that protects and enhances the values and quality of the land and facilitates public enjoyment of the land, and to implement measures directed to minimising or mitigating any disturbance caused by human intrusion;

15. to restore degraded bushland;

16. to protect existing landforms such as natural drainage lines, watercourses and foreshores;

17. to retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration that will enable the existing plant and animal communities to survive in the long term; and

18. to protect bushland as a natural stabiliser of the soil surface.

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as a watercourse are:

19. to manage watercourses so as to protect the biodiversity and ecological values of the in stream environment, particularly in relation to water quality and water flows;

20. to manage watercourses so as to protect the riparian environment, particularly in relation to riparian vegetation and habitats and bank stability;

21. to restore degraded watercourses; and

22. to promote community education, and community access to and use of the watercourse, without compromising the other core objectives of the category.

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as foreshore are:

23. to maintain the foreshore as a transition area between the aquatic and the terrestrial environment, and to protect and enhance all functions associated with the foreshore’s role as a transition area, and

24. to facilitate the ecologically sustainable use of the foreshore, and to mitigate impact on the foreshore by community use.

The following objectives are also adopted for the management of the Reserve.

Other Objectives

Community Values:

25. to allow for passive recreation in designated areas;

26. to provide environmental education and interpretative material;

27. to maintain or enhance the heritage, scientific and aesthetic values of the Reserve; and

28. to work with adjoining residents to minimise flying-fox and human conflicts, particularly for periods when the flying-fox camp population increases to levels where the camp ‘spills over’ into or the ‘core’ camp area encompasses adjoining residential areas.

Ecological Values:

29. to allow for regeneration and rehabilitation of the remnant lowland floodplain rainforest on Bellingen Island and adjacent riparian rainforest on the northern river bank, through active implementation of the draft Vegetation Management Plan (VMP - Grace – Hely 2010);

30. to maintain the integrity and quality of the flying-fox camp, increase the extent of flying-fox roosting habitat on Bellingen Island and relieve pressure on the rainforest from concentrated flying-fox camp usage (e.g. from damage to canopy trees);


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31. to protect all listed threatened species, Endangered Ecological Communities (EECs) and their habitat within the Reserve, and increase habitat quality and quantity through restoration works;

32. to stabilise active erosion sites and take a proactive approach in erosion management and prevention;

33. minimise the conflicts between biodiversity and humans to mitigate against unauthorised activities such as vandalism of habitat / tree planting and disturbances to the flying-fox camp; and

34. develop a monitoring strategy for the restoration / rehabilitation works.

Management Values

35. to incorporate all of Council’s legal responsibilities for land management and threatened species management into a consolidated PoM; and

36. to categorise management issues associated with the Reserve and address them through a consolidated Action Plan.

Performance targets for the Reserve are included in Section 5 of this PoM which includes a set of actions which have been allocated specific timeframes in which to be achieved. Council will assess its performance with regard to achieving these targets and actions by reviewing the PoM including the proposed actions every five years.

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The Natural Environment 2 2

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2.1 Topography, Geology and Soils

2.1.1 Existing Environment

Bellingen Island is a point-bar like formation located between two channels on the Bellinger River, approximately at the upper tidal limits of the river (Telfer and Cohen 2010) (refer to Illustration 1.2). The northern channel was the main river channel until 1974, however this channel has now silted up and flows only during flood periods (BSC undated A). The southern channel is the current main channel with the river flowing in an easterly direction. The remainder of the Reserve consists of the adjoining Bellinger River riparian zone and floodplain. The Reserve primarily consists of Holocene Alluvium (BSC undated A) developed predominantly from fluvial erosion and deposition processes (Telfer and Cohen 2010) and overlays an older meta-sediment substrate. Bellingen Island itself consists of a recent alluvial deposit less than 2000 years old (BSC undated A). It contains medium (predominantly) to coarse (higher areas in south) alluvial sand / sandy loam with occasional smooth gravel. Finer alluvial sediment deposits occur in depressions such as the old (northern) river channel (BIRMC 1999). There are no known occurrences of Acid Sulfate Soils (ASS) in the Reserve (DLWC 1995). The Reserve is predominantly located below the 1 in 20 year flood level (BIRMC 1999). It forms part of the river ‘meander belt’ and a zone of active overbank flow. This section of the Bellinger River is part of a high-energy reach (Telfer and Cohen 2010). 2.1.2 Management Issues

2.1.2.1 Flooding, Erosion and Sedimentation

Erosion Erosion has historically been a major issue for the Reserve from both an environmental and public asset perspective. This is largely attributed to the high-energy flows of the Bellinger River and the dynamic (meandering) river channel. Records of loss of public assets and reduced amenity date back to the 1880s when a small area was cleared for picnicking at the eastern (downstream) of the island and was soon washed away (BSC undated B).

The biggest potential impact associated with erosion is however the possible loss of the lowland rainforest (an EEC and largest remnant of this community on the Bellinger floodplain) and the associated flying-fox camp (refer the Section 2.2 and 2.3 for a description of the values of these features). Due to adjacent urban land uses, there is little room for the remnant lowland rainforest to retreat in response to the changing alignment of the Bellinger River channel. The loss of the remnant lowland rainforest would be highly detrimental to the ecological and cultural values of the area.

The western portion of the southern bank is still an active erosion site and subject to severe bank loss during flood events (Plate 2.1 and 2.2, and Illustration 2.1). BSC, Northern Region Catchment Management Authority (NRCMA) and three land care groups that work on Bellingen Island (Bellingen Island Landcare, Bellingen Urban Landcare and Bellinger Landcare) are currently working in partnership to stabilise this area and reinforce existing rock revetment works to the east. This work has been completed using a combination of best practice engineering including pin and rock deflector groynes, rock revetment, anchoring existing logs and re-vegetation. The works were designed by NRCMA river engineers. In addition to bank stability and protection of Bellingen


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Island, other advantages of these works include improving water quality and reducing downstream sedimentation impacts. Funding for the project was secured through the Environmental Trust ‘Our Living Coast’ program and was completed in September 2011.

Plate 2.1 Eroded southern bank viewed to the west

Plate 2.2 Eroded southern bank viewed east

Another active erosion site has been identified in the eastern portion of the Reserve at the southern end of Red Ledge Lane (south-east corner of the older Bellingen Caravan Park site – refer to Illustration 2.2). The erosion has occurred through undercutting at the toe of a storm water drain outlet (refer to Plate 2.3), which collects storm water from urban areas of North Bellingen. Remediation works are currently being investigated by BSC as part of general storm water management services (Andrew Rickert, BSC pers. comm.). The old river channel between Hammond Street and the southern end of Red Ledge Lane has slumped as a result from a number of factors including increase runoff from hard surfaces from the adjacent residential lots and lack of vegetation with soil cohesion properties (e.g. deep rooted trees). In addition to environmental impacts such as erosion and sedimentation, the slump threatens the adjoining properties and associated boundary fences (refer to Plate 2.4). BSC has been working with the adjacent landholders to protect the bank. Adopted solutions include rock protection, retaining walls and tree planting, with funding sourced from the Environmental Trust ‘Our Living Coast’ program. As part of the project, BSC also aim to regenerate the old river bank along Hammond Street, from the river channel to the slump site (Andrew Rickert, BSC pers. comm.).


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Plate 2.3 Scoured pool at the toe of the storm water drain outlet

Plate 2.4 Slumped bank

Sediment Movement and Deposition

A feature of the dynamic alluvial environment at the Reserve is the deposition of sediment and plant debris during regular floods events. This exacerbates weed management issues and impedes native vegetation regeneration in the Reserve. During flood events new weed propagules are introduced and native groundcovers and seedlings are often smothered. In addition new exposed sediments provide opportunities for pioneer weed species to establish. The occurrence of weeds at the Reserve is discussed further in Section 2.3 and the Vegetation Management Plan – Draft Bellingen Island Reserve (Grace – Hely 2010).

Public Safety, Asset Protection and Public Liability

The public safety, asset protection and public liability risk associated with flooding was one of the key reasons for the closure of the Bellingen Caravan Park (BSC undated C). The whole of the old caravan site and much of the remainder of the Reserve is located in a floodway as identified in the Bellingen Floodplain Risk Management Plan (FRMP). Any infrastructure and land uses proposed for the Reserve must give due consideration to this land use constraint and must be consistent with the provisions of the Bellingen FRMP.

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Illustration

Active Erosion Sites

North 2.1


L E G E N D The ReserveActive Bank ErosionSlumped BankScour at Storm Water Drain Outlet

Bellinger River

Red

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Dowle Street

Ham

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Stre

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James

Eathe

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North Bellingen


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2.2 Climate


Bellingen is subject to hot humid summers; a warm wet, autumn; a mild winter and a warm dry spring (Tree Consulting and BSC 2008). Indicative average recorded monthly rainfall and temperatures are provided in Table 2.1. The mean annual rainfall is approximately 1520.4 mm. Typically, most of this rain occurs between January and April, peaking in March with approximately 218.3 mm on average (BoM 2011). Table 2.1 Climate Data for Bellingen (Post Office)

Month Mean Daily Max Temp (°C)

Mean Daily Min Temp (°C)

Mean Monthly Rainfall (mm)

January 29.8 17.8 183.5

February 29.4 13.3 196.4

March 28.2 16.8 218.3

April 25.9 13.3 153.7

May 22.7 9.2 119.9

June 20.4 6.8 108.6

July 20.0 4.8 79.9

August 21.7 5.6 57.5

September 24.3 8.3 57.1

October 26.4 11.7 95.9

November 28.4 14.1 111.4

December 29.7 16.6 137.6

Annual 25.6 11.9 1520.4

Source: BoM 2011. Rainfall Data: 1899-2002; Temperature Data: 1947-1986

2.2.2 Management Issues

2.2.2.1 Climate Change and Sea Level Rise

Climate change is projected to include an increased frequency of hot days, increased intensity and frequency of extreme daily rainfall events and droughts, changes to sea levels and changes in the occurrence of intense storm events. Climate change projections at the local scale for the Coffs Harbour area are described in a report by BMT WBM (2010a) and the findings are likely to be relevant to the BSC LGA. The projections for the Coffs Harbour area include:

Temperature: decreases in average temperatures for summer, autumn and spring and increases in winter;

Extreme Hot Days: significant increases in the annual number of extreme hot days;

Evaporation: decreases in summer and spring and increases in autumn and winter;

Average Rainfall: increases in annual totals and seasonal totals except for a decreases in autumn totals;

High Rainfall Events: increases in summer and autumn;

Sea Level Rise: 0.4 m increase in mean sea level by 2050 and 0.9 m increase by 2100; and

Wave Climate: future wave climate will be similar to the present or within the variability of the existing wave climate. However, the Coffs Harbour Coastal Processes and Hazards Definition Study (BMT WBM, 2010b) investigated the possibility of a permanent shift from the existing south easterly wave climate to a more easterly wave climate with average wave height remaining the same.


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There are no available studies that have assessed the impacts of climate change on the Bellinger River or Bellingen Island. However key issues that may affect the management of the Reserve are likely to be centered on biodiversity impacts and changing flood regimes. Increases in river levels associated with floods and flood frequency are likely to amplify the impacts or risk of erosion, sedimentation and other issues associated with flooding discussed previously (refer to Section 2.1). Anthropogenic climate change is a recognised key threatened process to indigenous biodiversity under the TSC Act and Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Climate change poses a particular threat to biodiversity values of the Reserve due to:

the isolation of the remnant lowland floodplain rainforest in a local landscape context from historic clearing;

the high susceptibility of the Reserve to changes in weather patterns, particularly in regards to increased frequency and severity of flood events which raise the risk of erosion; and

increases in the number of extreme hot days causing elevated stress to the flying-fox colony which can result in stress related illness, fatigue and females aborting or dropping their young.

Key management actions to help alleviate the impacts of climate change will be:

a proactive approach to river bank protection through monitoring and maintaining engineering structures and riparian vegetation regeneration; and

ongoing rehabilitation, regeneration and expansion of the remnant and riparian rainforest vegetation.


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2.3 Flora


The Reserve supports four main vegetation types as described below. The locations of these vegetation types are shown in Illustration 2.2. The vegetation descriptions are largely based on previous surveys and reports associated with the Reserve (BIRMC 1999, BSC undated a, Grace – Hely 2010, Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008) as well as a site inspection on the 4 May 2011. Around 120 native species have been recorded on Bellingen Island (Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008). Lowland Floodplain Rainforest The lowland floodplain rainforest occurs in the central to eastern portions of Bellingen Island and consists of the rainforest association Fig (Ficus spp) – White Booyong (Heritiera trioliolata) – Giant Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide 15orona) – Pepperberry (Cryptocarya obovata) (BIRMC 1999). It covers an area of approximately 2.7 ha. Two areas of tree plantings by Bellingen Island Landcare in the north and south have matured and essentially form part of this community. This vegetation association constitutes:

the TSC Act listed EEC Lowland Rainforest on floodplain in the NSW North Coast Bioregion; and

the EPBC Act listed Critically Endangered ecological community Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia.

It is the largest remaining example of this community in the lower Bellingen area (BSC undated B). Less than 1000 ha of lowland floodplain rainforest remains in NSW and remaining stands are small and isolated (NSW Scientific Committee 1999).

Plate 2.5 Core area of remnant lowland floodplain rainforest

Riparian Rainforest This community occurs in the riparian zone along the Bellinger River channel in the west and along part of the old Bellinger River channel north of Bellingen Island. It covers a total area of approximately 1.1 ha. Dominant canopy species include Weeping Lilly Pilly (Waterhousea floribunda), River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamiana), Figs (Ficus, spp.), Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and Red Cedar (Toona ciliata). The understorey is generally dominated by weeds, though a small area in the west near the car park at The Point supports established rainforest plantings. While the floristic association differs somewhat from the core remnant rainforest on Bellingen Island, this community still constitutes the TSC Act 1995 listed EEC Lowland Rainforest


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on floodplain in the NSW North Coast Bioregion and EPBC Act listed Critically Endangered ecological community Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia.

Plate 2.6 Riparian rainforest at The Point

Managed Grassland and Parkland Managed (mown) grassland and parkland occurs at the old caravan park site, River Place Reserve and The Point (refer to Plates 2.7, 2.8, 2.9 and 2.10). It covers a total area of approximately 1.1 ha. Commonly occurring canopy trees include Red Cedar, Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) and Camphor Laurel. Groundcovers consist mostly of exotic grasses and weeds. Many of the Red Cedars at River Place Reserve have self seeded from older trees planted along the old rivers edge. A small garden occurs around the carpark at The Point. The managed grassland at the eastern end of the point formerly resembled weedy shrubland / grassland, and is now managed as grassland to reduce weed cover and seed stock.

Plate 2.7 Old Bellingen Caravan Park site Plate 2.8 Parkland area of River Place

Reserve


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Plate 2.9 Mown grassland at The Point Plate 2.10 Carpark and associated garden at

The Point

Weedy Shrubland / Grassland This community occurs elsewhere in the Reserve including the western, northern, southern and eastern edges of Bellingen Island, and other largely cleared and unmanaged portions of the riparian zone at The Point (refer to Plate 2.11, 2.12 and 2.13). It covers a total area of approximately 4.1 ha and is dominated by weeds including Castor Oil Plant (Ricinus communis), Small-leaved Privet (Ligustrum sinense) (Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008), Palm Grass (Seteria palmifolia), Barner Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis) (Grace – Hely 2010). Isolated or small clusters of remnant or regrowth River Oaks occur along the edge of the Bellinger River. The western portion of this community on Bellingen Island has been subject to recent bush regeneration works which have taken place since the floods in early 2009. This area contains a large number of rainforest plantings below a managed canopy of Castor Oil Plant (refer to Plate 2.14).

Plate 2.11 Weedy shrubland / grassland at the eastern end of Bellingen Island

Plate 2.12 Weedy shrubland / grassland along the Bellinger River with a small stand of regrowth River Oak


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Plate 2.13 Weedy shrubland / grassland at the western end of Bellingen Island

Plate 2.14 Recent plantings in the weedy shrubland / grassland at the western end of Bellingen Island

0 100


Illustration

Vegetation Map

North 2.2

Drawn by: DSA Checked by: RE Reviewed by: MVE Date: May 2011Source of base data: Google EarthInformation shown is for illustrative purposes only

L E G E N D Weedy Shrubland-GrasslandLowland Floodplain Rainforest (EEC)Managed Grassland and ParklandRiparian Rainforest (EEC)

Bellinger River

Red

Ledg

e Lan

e

Rive

r Plac

e

Dowle Street

Ham

mond

Stre

et

James

Eathe

r Way

North Bellingen


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2.3.1.1 Significant Flora Species

Identification of significant flora species associated with the Reserve was undertaken by review of the Floyd (1986 – updated 2010) and BIRMC (1999) flora lists provided in Appendix 2 and 3 of Grace – Hely (2010) and Flametree Ecological Consulting report (2007). In addition discussions were conducted with Ross Macleay, a local botanist and member of Bellingen Island Landcare Group. Threatened Species Four threatened flora species have been recorded in the Reserve:

Clear Milkvine (Marsdenia longiloba) has recently been recorded within the remnant lowland rainforest vegetation on Bellingen Island (Ross Macleay, pers. comm.). This species is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and Vulnerable under the EPBC Act.

Red Bopple Nut (Hicksbeachia pinnatifolia) is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act. Specimens were reportedly planted on Bellingen Island as part of regeneration works (BIRMC 1999), though are believed to have been washed away during subsequent floods (Ross Macleay, pers. comm.);

Rusty Plum (Niemeyera whitei formerly Amorphospermum whitei) is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. Rusty Plum was recorded in the Reserve (BIRMC 1999), however is currently not known to occur on Bellingen Island. An individual specimen may occur to the north of the island in the remnant riparian rainforest vegetation (Ross Macleay, pers. comm.);

Milky Silkpod (Parsonia dorrigoensis) is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act and Endangered under the EPBC Act. It was listed as occurring in the Reserve (Floyd 1986 –updated 2010 cited in Grace – Hely 2010) however subsequent targeted searches have failed to identify this species and it is likely to have been a misidentification (Ross Macleay, pers. comm.).

The Reserve is also considered to provide potential habitat for the following threatened flora (NPWS 2011):

Hairy-joint Grass (Arthraxon hispidus);

White-flowered Wax Plant (Cynanchum elegans); and

Spider Orchid (Dendrobium melaleucaphilum).

Given the extensive hours that volunteer bush regenerators with reputable local ecological knowledge and plant identification skills have worked at the Reserve and the disturbance history of the general area; the likelihood of the above listed species actually being present within the Reserve is low. Southern Range Limit For the following species that have been recorded in the Reserve, the locality is at or near the species southern known limit of distribution:

Hairy Walnut (Endiantra pubens);

Carronia Vine (Carronia multisepala);

Brown Tamarind (Castanospora alphandii); and

Giant Blood Vine (Austrosteenisia glabristyla).

The occurrence of Carronia Vine (Carronia multisepala) is particularly significant as this is the only food source for larvae of the Pink Underwing Moth (Phyllodes imperialis), which is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and EPBC Act.


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2.3.2.1 Threats

Overall the Reserve (primarily the remnant and riparian rainforests) is of significant native flora biodiversity conservation value. The vegetation in the Reserve also provides other significant environmental functions such as enhancing river bank stability, improving water quality and providing significant fauna habitat values (refer to Section 2.4). The main threats to the biodiversity conservation values of the Reserve include:

Weed invasion: A large number of significant environmental and noxious weeds are known to occur at the Reserve. Vine weeds (e.g. Madeira Vine Anredera cordifolia, Coastal Morning Glory Ipomea indica and Balloon Vine Cardiospermum grandiflorum, etc) and Wandering Jew (Tradescantia albiflora) are the primary weed threats to the rainforest communities. Relevant key threatening processes operating at the Reserve under the TSC Act include:

- invasion and establishment of exotic vines and scramblers: Currently a major threat that will require ongoing management; and

- invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana (Lantana camara): Currently a low threat due to the limited occurrence of Lantana.

Loss of vegetation through erosion of the river banks: This has been discussed previously in Section 2.1.2.1.

The flying-fox camp has also impacted on the floristic structure and composition of the Reserve and exacerbated weed invasion through:

canopy defoliation and damage;

bat droppings increasing soil nutrient levels and damaging native understorey vegetation; and

spread of weed seeds (e.g. Camphor Laurel).

Vandalism has also periodically been an issue at the Reserve. Impacts on flora including vegetation damage (including trampling), death or removal and associated edge effects (exacerbating weed issues) and erosion issues. In the 1990’s this was a major problem when a through access track intersected the remnant lowland floodplain rainforest, mainly from bike trafficking. This has been managed through closure of the through access and installation of no bikes signage (BIRMC 1999). The main current source of vandalism occurs periodically from illegal campers. In addition to vegetation damage and removal, potential impacts of campers include dumping of rubbish and fire which are both recognised threats to lowland floodplain rainforest (OEH undated). Illegal camping is managed through enforcement by Council’s Ranger (i.e. moving campers on). 2.3.2.2 Information Gaps

As mentioned previously, some inconsistencies were noted with regards to the occurrence of the significant flora species recorded in the Reserve (refer to Section 2.3.1.1). It is important to know if and where these species occur in the Reserve:

as they potentially constitute an isolated population given the highly modified nature of the local landscape; and

to ensure appropriate management is undertaken to assist with their protection.


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2.4 Fauna: Flying-foxes

2.4.1 Flying-fox Camps

Flying-fox camps are areas that support large aggregations of flying-foxes and provide resting habitat, protection from predators, opportunities for social interaction and information exchange, and refuge during significant phases of their lifecycle, such as conception, birth and lactation (Parry-Jones and Augee 1992 in DECCW 2009, Tidemann 1999). For several weeks in late spring and summer camps provide refuge for flightless young (DECCW 2009). Flying-fox camps may be occupied on a permanent, seasonal or irregular basis. They provide access to food resources and can be used as a stopover for migrating animals throughout their range (DECC 2007). Grey-headed and Black Flying-foxes will regularly return to the same camp each year when food resources are available (DECC 2007). Individual camps are therefore an integral part of a larger network of camps. Flying-foxes pollinate flowers and disperse seeds of plants whose fruit and nectar they consume (>100 native tree species) whilst foraging along the east coast of Australia. This foraging activity spreads genetic material thousands of kilometers across a fragmented and often degraded landscape. They therefore play a crucial role in the reproductive and evolutionary process of many forest communities, regenerating these communities as well as conserving native plants and animals and commercially important hardwoods. Other animals also provide the service of dispersing seed and pollinating plants however few cover the vast range (2,000 km) of flying-foxes. 2.4.2 Reserve Values

The Reserve supports one of the most important flying-fox camps in NSW. It is used primarily by the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) which is listed as Vulnerable under TSC Act and EPBC Act. The Black Flying-fox (Pteropus alecto) and Little Red Flying-fox (Pteropus scapulatus) also occur on occasions (Jones 2007, cited in Flametree Ecological Consulting 2007). The Reserve constitutes roosting habitat critical to the survival of the Grey-headed Flying-fox in the Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox (DECCW 2009). The ‘core’ area of the camp is normally centered in the northern and eastern portions of the remnant lowland rainforest on Bellingen Island (Eby 2008) though may shift to other vegetated parts of the Reserve from time to time. Adjacent stands of River Oaks in the weedy shrubland / grassland, the riparian rainforest and parkland areas directly to the north typically form the outer margins of the camp (mainly during periods when flying-fox numbers at the Reserve are high). The Reserve was reported to be used sporadically by low numbers of flying-foxes in the early twentieth century and has been used as a permanent annual camp since around 1966. Occupation of the Reserve as a permanent camp corresponds to the destruction of former camps in lowland rainforest areas along the Bellinger River (Lunney and Moon 1996). The Black Flying-fox was first recorded at the camp in 1999 (Flametree Ecological Consultancy and BSC 2008), correlating to an expansion of the species southern range (DECCW 2009). The Reserve is located within nightly foraging distance (generally <20 km) of significant and reliable food resources (mainly pollen and nectar, but also fruits of rainforest species). During the maternity and conception periods (October to May), large numbers of flying-foxes occupy the Reserve, typically numbering around 20,000 to 30,000 (Jones 2000). In March 2006 during a period of heavy flowering of Pink Bloodwood (Corymbia intermedia) in the Bellingen area, the population of the camp was estimated to have reached over a hundred thousand (Jones 2007, cited in Flametree Ecological Consulting 2007). During winter months, whilst the availability of foraging resources is reduced, enough resources are generally locally available to sustain a small colony.


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Flying-foxes require a continuous sequence of productive foraging habitats along their migration corridors, as well as suitable roosting habitat within nightly commuting distance of foraging areas (Fleming and Eby 2003). The Reserve is vital to the long term survival of the Grey-Headed Flying-fox as it provides an important roosting site that is central to significant foraging habitat. The foraging habitat in this locality has been identified as critical to the survival of the Grey-headed Flying-fox (DECCW 2009). Grey-headed Flying-foxes and some Black Flying-foxes use the Reserve from October to April or May to give birth to and care for dependent young. Not all camp sites are selected by flying-foxes as being suitable for maternity cycles and this is a very important feature of the Bellingen camp. The Little Red Flying-fox is nomadic throughout its range generally following food resources. The species is an occasional visitor to the Reserve mainly in Summer when food resources are locally abundant (Jones 2000). The period of occupation is typically short with individuals moving on when food resources diminish. 2.4.3 Management Issues

The following threats and issues are mainly related to the Grey-headed Flying-fox. Threats to the Black and Little Red Flying-foxes are not clear but are likely to be similar. 2.4.3.1 Negative Public Attitudes

Negative attitudes from community members often impedes the management of flying-foxes and can result in unauthorised disturbances to flying-foxes which can cause stress, fatigue and females may abort or drop their young. While historically this has been an issue for the Reserve (Lunney and Moon 1996), the general community now largely embraces the flying-fox camp and associated environmental and social (e.g. tourism) values. 2.4.3.2 Human and Flying-fox Conflicts

Human conflicts with the flying-fox camp mainly occurs when camp occupies the northern portion of the Reserve adjacent to residential houses (i.e. the old caravan park, River Place Reserve and adjacent riparian rainforest – refer to Plate 2.15) as well as trees on adjacent residential lots. This is generally attributed to the camp ‘spilling over’ from the core rainforest on Bellingen Island during periods of extremely high flying-fox occupancy, or periods when the core of the camp shifts. For example, for an approximate 18 month period between 2009 and 2011, the core area of the camp was centered on the northern portion of the Reserve encompassing the old caravan park site and adjacent riparian vegetation to the north of Bellingen Island. During such periods Council occasionally receives complaints from adjacent neighbours on the flying-foxes and management of the Reserve. This includes common flying-fox complaints such as noise, odour and droppings. Perceived health risks are also a common issue with flying-fox management in general, particularly near camps. Disturbance and noise generated by humans may also disturb flying-foxes. While flying-foxes generally habituate to everyday noise, irregular noise or noises associated with danger may cause flying-foxes to vocalise and take flight. This may add to flying-fox noise impacts on adjacent residences and also causes stress and fatigue to the flying-foxes, exasperating environmental stresses (such as periods of food shortages) on the animal’s overall well-being. While the Bellingen Island camp shows high levels of tolerance to human presence, the frequency of disturbances is likely to be increased when the camp encroaches the northern portion of the Reserve and directly adjacent trees on residential lots, as the flying-fox / human interactions and associated disturbances are generally increased.


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Plate 2.15 Grey-headed Flying-foxes roosting at the old caravan park site

2.4.3.3 Habitat Loss and Degradation

General Habitat Loss and Degradation at the Reserve While vegetation clearing has historically been a threat to the vegetation at the Reserve (Lunney and Moon 1996), the main current threats for the flying-foxes are habitat loss and degradation of vegetation from weed invasion and river bank erosion. The direct loss of canopy trees and lack of recruitment of canopy species from weed invasion and sedimentation has reduced the number of suitable roosting trees. This exasperates the flying-fox / human conflict issues as spill-over and usage of vegetation in and adjacent to residential areas becomes more common and concentrates vegetation damage by roosting flying-foxes. Vegetation Damage Caused by Flying-foxes Severe defoliation of roost trees can occur as a result of prolonged flying-fox occupation or through intensive occupations of camps by large numbers of flying-foxes. The loss of canopy structure allows increased light to penetrate the rainforest and encourages the proliferation of weeds. The problem is then exacerbated when exotic vines cover canopy trees, the weight of which becomes too much for the remaining trees which break, causing more canopy gaps. In additional to the vegetation damage, flying-foxes may encourage weed growth as they forage on a range of fruiting weed species (e.g. Camphor Laurel and Broad-leaved Privet) and contribute to their seed dispersal. In addition, concentrations of faecal materials at camps increases soil nutrient levels, further encouraging weed growth.


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Little Red Flying-foxes have been known to cause greater amounts of structural damage to trees than Black and Grey-headed Flying-foxes as they typically arrive in much greater numbers, often following one particular flowering species, and roost very close together, sometimes in clumps. The weight of these close-roosting animals can break limbs of roost trees. Historically there has been conflict between flying-fox camp preservation and rainforest restoration due to vegetation damage by caused by flying-foxes (Lunney and Moon 1996). However in pre-European settlement conditions, the disturbances and habitat changes associated with flying-fox camps would have contributed to rainforest development and biodiversity. The contemporary problem is the spread of weeds and the loss of suitable alternative roosting habitat, intensifying the impacts of flying-fox roosting at camps. From a management perspective, more stringent weed management is required to compensate for the increased impacts of more intensive roosting behaviour resulting from reduced availability of roosting habitat. Foraging Habitat Loss and Degradation While it is outside the scope of this PoM to manage foraging habitat in the broader region it must be acknowledged that reductions in nectar and fruit availability is a major threat to flying-foxes. Reduced food source availability can occur from vegetation clearance and degradation, reductions in floristic diversity, simplification of the age structure from forestry and agricultural practices, eucalypt dieback, drought, fire, climate change and vulnerability of flowering and fruiting schedules to fluctuations in such factors as temperature and rainfall (DECCW 2009). The maintenance of sufficient foraging resources within nightly foraging distance of the camp is critical to maintain the Reserves roosting values for flying-foxes. 2.4.3.4 Electrocution on Powerlines, Entanglement in Netting and on Barbed-wire

Flying-foxes may become injured by collision with powerlines or electrocution. Similarly they may become entangled on netting or barbed-wire. While not a direct threat on the Reserve, powerlines, netting and barbed wire are all threats to flying-foxes in the region, and the presence of such features directly adjacent to the camp (e.g. powerlines along Dowle Street) may impact on flying-foxes locally. The significance of these threats in the region is not known.

2.5 Fauna: Other Significant Species


The Reserve is known to support a high diversity of native fauna (BIRMC 1999), including two other threatened species:

Giant Barred Frog (Mixophyes iterates) which is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and EPBC Act; and

Eastern Osprey (Pandion cristatus) which is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act (BIRMC 1999).

The habitat values of the Reserve for threatened species known to occur or potentially occurring in the Reserve based on local records (NPWS 2011; SEWPAC 2011) and the habitat available is summarised in Table 2.2 (NPWS 2011, SEWPAC 2011) . Table 2.2 Known or Potentially Occurring Threatened Fauna

Scientific Name Common Name

Status Occurrence Potential and Values of The Reserve

TSC Act

EPBC Act

Amphibia

Mixophyes iterates

Southern Barred Frog

E E Known: Breeding and foraging habitat mainly in the lowland rainforest and riparian areas.


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TSC Act

EPBC Act

Avifauna

Ixobrychus flavicollis

Black Bittern V - Possible: Areas of dense vegetation along the river provide potential foraging and nesting habitat. Mainly likely to occur as opportunistic forager.

Lophoictinia isura

Square-tailed Kite

V - Possible: The Reserve provides opportunistic foraging and roosting habitat, potentially forming a small part of a large foraging territory. Not known or likely to be used as nesting habitat.

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl V - Possible: The Reserve provides foraging and roosting habitat, potentially forming a small part of a large foraging territory. No suitable nesting sites (large hollow-bearing Eucalypts spp.) present.

Pandion cristatus (formerly Pandion haliaetus)

Eastern Osprey

V - Known: The Reserve provides roosting habitat, with larger trees along the river’s edge providing good vantage points over the river during foraging. Not known or likely to be used as nesting habitat.

Ptilinopus magnificus

Wompoo Fruit-dove

V - Possible: The Reserve provides opportunistic foraging habitat, with foraging sources provided by a diverse range of fruiting species (particularly figs). While structurally suitable as roosting habitat, the Flying-fox camp is likely to discourage nesting (Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008).

Ptilinopus regina Rose-crowned Fruit-dove

V - Possible: The Reserve provides opportunistic foraging habitat, with foraging sources provided by a diverse range of fruiting species (particularly figs). While structurally suitable as roosting habitat, the Flying-fox camp is likely to discourage nesting (Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008).

Ptilinopus superbus

Superb Fruit-dove

V - Possible: The Reserve provides opportunistic foraging habitat, with foraging sources provided by a diverse range of fruiting species (particularly figs). While structurally suitable as roosting habitat, the Flying-fox camp is likely to discourage nesting.

Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl V - Possible: The Reserve provides foraging and roosting habitat, potentially forming a small part of a large territory. Some marginally suitable nesting sites are be present including hollows in the larger trees such as the emergent figs in the remnant rainforest. However the Reserve is not known as nesting habitat.

Insecta

Phyllodes imperialis (southern subspecies)

Pink Underwing Moth

E E Possible: The remnant lowland floodplain rainforest is considered potential habitat given the presence of the key larvae food sources Carronia Vine.


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TSC Act

EPBC Act

Mammalia

Miniopterus australis

Little Bentwing-bat

V - Possible: The Reserve provides potential foraging habitat. Trees with hollows and cavities may provide non-breeding roosting habitat.

Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-bat

V - Possible: The Reserve provides potential foraging habitat. Trees with hollows and cavities may provide non-breeding roosting habitat.

Myotis macropus

Large-footed Myotis

V - Possible: The Bellinger River provides potential aquatic foraging habitat. Potential roosting habitat on and adjacent to the Reserve is provided by hollow-bearing trees, stormwater drains, buildings, Lavender’s Bridge and trees with dense foliage (mainly in remnant rainforest).

Phoniscus papuensis (formerly Kerivoula papuensis)

Golden-tipped Bat

V - Possible: The Reserve provides potential foraging and roosting habitat in broad structural terms.

Saccolaimus flaviventris

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat


Scoteanax rueppellii

Greater Broad-nosed Bat


Reptilia

Emydura macquarii signata

Bellinger River Emydura

- V Possible: Known to occur in the river adjacent to the Reserve and may potentially utilise the banks of the Reserve as nesting habitat.

The SEWPAC Protected Matters Search Tool identified 20 EPBC Act listed migratory species or species habitat occurring within a 10 km radius of the Reserve. Of these, four are known to occur at the Reserve:

White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaetus leucogaster);

Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus);

Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons); and

Eastern Osprey (Pandion cristatus) (BIRMC 1999).

The values of the Reserve to these species and other potentially occurring migratory species is summarised in Table 2.3.


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Table 2.3 Habitat Values of the Reserve for Known / Potentially Occurring Migratory Species

Scientific Name Common Name Occurrence Potential and Values of The Reserve

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift Possible: Opportunistic aerial foraging habitat as part of migratory foraging range

Ardea alba Great Egret Possible: Opportunistic forager in wet grassland areas and along rivers edge.

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret Possible: Opportunistic forager in wet grassland areas and along rivers edge.

Haliaeetus leucogaster

White-bellied Sea-Eagle

Known: The Reserve provides roosting habitat, with larger trees along the river’s edge providing good vantage points over the river during foraging. Larger trees may potentially be suitable as nesting sites, however no nest are currently present.

Pandion cristatus (formerly Pandion haliaetus)

Eastern Osprey Known: The Reserve provides roosting habitat, with larger trees along the river’s edge providing good vantage points over the river during foraging. Not known or likely to be used as nesting habitat.

Hirundapus caudacutus

White-throated Needletail

Possible: Opportunistic aerial foraging habitat as part of migratory foraging range

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater

Known: The Reserve provides foraging and potential nesting habitat (mainly in the river banks).

Monarcha melanopsis

Black-faced Monarch

Possible: The rainforest vegetation provides potential foraging and nesting habitat.

Monarcha trivirgatus

Spectacled Monarch

Possible: The rainforest vegetation provides potential foraging and nesting habitat.

Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail Possible: The rainforest vegetation provides potential foraging and nesting habitat.

Gallinago hardwickii

Latham’s Snipe Possible: Opportunistic forager in wet grassland areas and along rivers edge.


Maintaining or enhancing the habitat values of the Reserve for threatened species can largely be achieved through the umbrella affects of managing the flora and flying-fox issues discussed in Section 2.3 and 2.4 respectively. A number of these significant species are dependent on good water quality and riparian habitats (e.g. Giant Barred Frog, Osprey, Black Bittern Large-footed Myotis and Bellinger River Emydura) hence the enhancement of riparian zones and managing human access is also important. Feral predators such as foxes have been known to visit the Reserve and are a significant threat to native fauna. Domestic cats and dogs are also a predatory threat to many of the known or potentially occurring threatened species and may represent a risk given the location of the Reserve in an urban area. Control of feral pests and domestic cats and dogs in the Reserve is undertaken on an as required basis by BSC.

3


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The Cultural Environment 3 3

3

3.1 History

3.1.1 Indigenous History

The Reserve is contained within the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people. No known archaeological surveys have been carried out on the Reserve to date. 3.1.2 European History

This brief history of the Reserve primarily focuses on Bellingen Island as specific details of the history of the other areas of the Reserve are unknown to the author. 1841 to 1984 Europeans first settled in the Bellinger Valley in 1841. They initially came as ‘cedar cutters’, but soon introduced sheep (1942) and cattle (1844) for grazing. By 1949, the land encompassed by the present day town of Bellingen had became sparsely settled by squatters and cedar cutters, and a boat industry had commenced (NBRS 2010). After the Crown Lands Occupation Act 1861 was passed, selections of farmland soon followed, particularly on the floodplain and terraces (NBRS 2010). Unlike the surrounding slightly higher floodplain, Bellingen Island was not sold and remained as Crown tenure, hence it was not cleared (BIRMC 1999). During this period Bellingen Island formed a point-like structure on the southern Bellinger River bank and was used as a stopping point for logs prior to them being rafted down river for export, as well as an area for public recreation such as swimming and picnicking (Lunney and Moon 1996). A small public area on the eastern (downstream) end of the Island was cleared in the 1880’s, though it was subject to flooding and soon washed away. The western (upstream) end of the island was eventually sold and cleared for grazing land (BIRMC 1999). The eastern portion of Bellingen Island was reserved in 1887 as R3887 for Water Supply. It was then reserved in 1900 for Public Recreation and Preservation of Native Flora (Reserve 30812), replacing the 1887 Water supply reservation (Lunney and Moon 1996). By 1903 human induced disturbances on the island included recreational activities (e.g. swimming and picnicking), planting of exotic trees, invasion by Lantana and other weeds, earthwork (to channel water) and cattle grazing (Lunney and Moon 1996). Council became the Trust manager of the island in 1923, establishing a planting program, access road and picnic tables. The island essentially was the towns swimming and recreation area until the 1970’s when a series of the floods resulted in a loss of infrastructure and general habitat degradation. Damage to the Reserve was particularly acute during the 1960’s / 70’s with a loss of large trees and canopy, significant weed incursions, lack of natural regeneration and increased flying-fox usage of the island as a camp. During this period, the main river channel also changed from the northern channel which was the main swimming area, to the southern channel (Lunney and Moon 1996). Early restoration attempts during this period were abandoned due to lack of resources and the degraded state of the island. Many local residents considered the island to be “abandoned to the bats”, and it adopted the name ‘Bat Island’ during the 1980’s (BIRMC 1999).


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1984 to Present Bellingen Island Landcare Group first began undertaking restoration work in the remnant lowland rainforest on Bellingen Island in 1984 (BIRMC 1999). Slashing around the rainforest also ceased and walking tracks were established. Cattle which often strayed into the rainforest from the privately owned western portion of the Island were permanently excluded in 1991 (Lunney and Moon 1996). Tree loss from bank erosion during flooding continued to present a problem to restoration works and protection of the rainforest. In 2003, the first major engineering works (rock revetment) along the southern bank was undertaken to help address this problem (Flametree Ecological Consulting and BSC 2008). In 2007 the western portion of the island was incorporated into the Reserve. Volunteer community groups and partner ships with Council (including Bellingen Island Landcare Group, Bellingen Urban Landcare Group, Green Corps) have undertaken ongoing works in the Reserve, primarily on Bellingen Island and at The Point. Recent regeneration works include:

ongoing weed management within the lowland floodplain rainforest remnant on Bellingen Island;

weed management in the riparian rainforest at The Point; and

extensive tree planting and weed management within the weedy shrubland / grassland vegetation in the western end of the Bellingen Island.

3.2 Land Uses and Community Values

3.2.1 The Point

3.2.1.1 Existing Environment and Current Management

The Point, located at the southern end of James Eather Way, is a popular area for passive recreation for the Bellingen community (refer to Plate 3.1). Common activities include swimming, picnicking and remote control boat racing. Existing infrastructure includes an access road and car park (refer to Plate 3.2), informal walkways to the river, garbage bins and an established garden around the car park. The Bellinger River water extraction bores are located opposite The Point. These bores pump water to various reservoirs for town water usage in the Bellingen LGA. Maintaining a high level of water quality in this area is therefore extremely important for the local community. Management of The Point to help achieve water quality objectives should include enhancement of riparian vegetation, particularly for its water filtering and bank stability values. The Point also has a number of community values associated with being an active Landcare site. Landcare have been operating on the site since the 1980’s controlling several weed infestations and revegetated an area of two hectares. Management activities currently undertaken at The Point include:

maintenance of infrastructure by BSC, including mowing of grassland areas, emptying rubbish bins and maintaining the access road and carpark; and

bush regeneration activities undertaken by volunteer Landcare community groups.


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Plate 3.1 Walking track down to the river at The Point

Plate 3.2 Carpark and managed lawns

3.2.1.2 Management Issues

The riparian rainforest at the Point is predominantly only a single tree canopy width and is heavily infested with weeds. Healthy riparian vegetation improves biodiversity values and maintaining water quality through maintaining bank stability and the water filtering capacity of the riparian vegetation. The existing thin strip of vegetation provides little in the way of biodiversity enhancement or water quality protection. The Point is an aesthetically pleasing area with view of the Bellinger River, adjacent farmland and distant mountains. Heavy weed infestation along the riparian zone in the core recreational area and heavy pedestrian traffic along the main access track exposing the riverbank sediments reduces the aesthetic appeal of the area. Vandalism is also an on-going management issue at The Point, with the area sometimes being used for camping and informal gatherings and associated fires and littering. There have also been instances of plant removed and dumping of refuse. Vehicle use at the point has also been an issue, with vehicles currently being able to access parts of the reserve, including down to the river edge. This can cause damage to vegetation and erosion problems.

3.2.2 River Place Reserve

3.2.2.1 Existing Environment

River Place Reserve (sign posted as Cedar Park) is a small reserve located between Dowle Street, River Place and the western end of Bellingen Island. It contains children’s play equipment, maintained lawns and parkland (refer to Plate 3.3) and is subject to low levels of recreational usage. Management activities currently undertaken at River Place Reserve consist of BSC mowing and maintaining the playground area as required. River Place Reserve is also of aesthetic values for local residents, providing greenery amongst the residential housing. 3.2.2.2 Management Issues

Flying-fox usage of the trees at the southern end of River Place Reserve causes some flying-fox and human conflicts as discussed in Section 2.4.3.2, particularly when flying-fox roost in trees that overhang adjacent dwellings (refer to Plate 3.4).


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Plate 3.3 River Place Reserve viewed from Dowle Street

Plate 3.4 Trees overhanging adjacent dwellings off River Place

3.2.3 Old Bellingen Caravan Park


Bellingen Caravan Park was closed in 2006 and now is largely managed as parkland. Remaining infrastructure includes:

house / former office building which is rented out by Council for residential purposes (refer to Plate 3.5);

a single caravan / tenant who is yet to find alternative accommodation;

amenities block which is closed to the public, though the storage room is used by the local Landcare group to store equipment;

interpretive signage regarding Bellingen Island (refer to Plate 3.5);

former access roads; and

slab and post fence along Dowle Street side of the Old Bellingen Caravan Park.

Plate 3.5 Old amenities block and access loop road off Dowle Street

Plate 3.6 Existing interpretative signage


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Plate 3.7 Typical view of the old caravan park site

Plate 3.8 View of the old caravan park site from Dowle Street

Current recreational usage levels appear low, however visitors interested in viewing the flying-fox camp and core remnant rainforest do visit this area. Management activities currently undertaken at the old caravan park primarily include BSC mowing and emptying bins. Maintenance on the existing facilities is also undertaken by BSC on an ‘as required’ basis, often as a result of vandalism. In 2006 when the Bellingen Caravan Park lease was due, Bellingen Shire Council called for submissions regarding future use / development of the site. Four official submissions plus a response from the Department of Lands were received. All of the submissions were similar and generally included the following features:

usage of the old Bellingen Caravan Park site and Bellingen Island being linked;

the old Bellingen Caravan Park site being used as some type of public recreational area; and

ecological management components for Bellingen Island and establishment of a learning centre.

Habitat restoration for Bellingen Island was also identified to be of prime importance. Council is working in close consultation with EcoBello (an umbrella community group that represents environmental community groups in the Bellingen Shire), to conduct a feasibility study for a “community sustainability living and learning centre” through the engagement of an external specialist consultant. The project vision is that the “community sustainability living and learning centre” will have its administration “hub” or “centre” within the Reserve and be connected to other facilities in Bellingen such as Council’s Youth Centre, the Bellingen Showground and the Northbank Community Garden. The feasibility study aims to assess if the project is viable against its aspiration and vision and is an essential component in the planning process. 3.2.3.2 Management Issues

The current aesthetic value of old Bellingen Caravan Park is low and attributed to:

presence of rundown former caravan park buildings;

poor public surveillance (largely associated with the former caravan park buildings impairing the views from Dowle Street);

large occurrence of access roads across the site, reducing the extent of grassed areas;

trafficking of soils from visitors as well as adjacent residents who use Red Ledge Lane for access. This has reduced the extent of grass cover;


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usage of the old caravan park site for car parking and storage by adjacent residents; and

flying-foxes periodically roosting on the site and associated impacts such as defecating and defoliation of the parkland trees.

Other management issues at the old caravan park include:

vandalism of the remaining caravan park buildings;

illegal camping (primarily during large local festivals at the nearby showgrounds);

flying-fox and human conflicts as discussed in Section 2.4.3.2; and

appropriateness of renting the house / former office building as a residence given its rundown state and proximity to flying-foxes (refer to Section 2.4.3.2).

3.2.4 Bellingen Island


Bellingen Island is essentially managed for environmental protection (refer to Section 2) with bush-regeneration being undertaken by a number of stakeholder groups in the Bellingen community. It is seen as part of the Bellingen landscape and has strong cultural values for the community including:

high scientific and conservation values, primarily associated with the flying-fox camp and the remnant lowland floodplain rainforest;

high visual and landscape values, providing a contrast to urban township of Bellingen and adjacent cleared pastoral land;

high community values associated with ongoing volunteer based bush restoration works; and

high tourism values, contributing to the nature based tourism of the Bellingen valley.

3.2.4.2 Management Issues

The main management issues for Bellingen Island are discussed in detail within the Biodiversity issues components of Section 2.

4


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Legislation and Policy 4 4

4

4.1 Commonwealth Government Legislation and Policy

4.1.1 Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation act 1999

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as Vulnerable under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The EPBC Act requires an assessment of actions which may significantly impact upon matters of national environmental significance. Proponents of activities that significantly impact Grey-headed Flying-foxes or their habitat may need to submit a referral to the Australian Government.

4.2 State Government Legislation and Policy

4.2.1 Local Government Act 1993

Pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, Council is required to prepare a Plan of Management (PoM) for the management of any community land under its care and control. Clause 36 of the Act sets out what is to be included within a PoM. Table 4.1 outlines these requirements and identifies where they are specifically addressed within this PoM. Table 4.1 Local Government Act 1993 Requirements

Clause Requirement Section in PoM

36 (3) A plan of management for community land must identify the following:

(a) the category of the land;

(b) the objectives and performance targets of the plan with respect to the land;

(c) the means by which the Council proposes to achieve the plan’s objectives and performance targets; and

(d) the manner in which the Council proposes to assess its performance with respect to the plan’s objectives and performance targets.

Section 1.3

Sections 1.4 and 5

Sections 1.4 and 5

Section 1.4

36 (3A) A plan of management that applies to just one area of community land must:

(a) include a description of the condition of the land, and of any buildings or other improvements on the land, as at the date of adoption of the plan of management;

(b) include a description of the use of the land and any such buildings or improvements as at that date;

(c) specify the purposes for which the land, and any such buildings or improvements, will be permitted to be used;

(d) specify the purposes for which any further development of the land will be permitted, whether under lease or license or otherwise; and

(e) describe the scale and intensity of any such permitted use or development.

Sections 2 and 3

Sections 2 and 3

Section 5

Section 5

Section 5

36 (4) Land is to be categorised as one or more of the following:

(a) a natural area,

(b) a sports ground,

Section 1.4


36

Clause Requirement Section in PoM

(c) a park,

(d) an area of cultural significance,

(e) general community use.

Clause 36A-D of the Local Government Act 1993, specify certain provisions that apply to community land comprising:

habitat of Endangered Species;

habitat of Threatened Species;

significant Natural Features; and

an area of Cultural Significance.

Table 4.2 outlines the requirements of Clause 36 A-D and how they relate to this PoM. Table 4.2 Local Government Act 1993 Requirements

Clause Requirement Comment

36A A plan of management adopted in respect of an area of community land, all or part of which consists of critical habitat, is to apply to that area only, and not to other areas of land.

No Part of the Reserve is classified as Critical Habitat.

36B A plan of management adopted in respect of an area of community land, all or part of which is directly affected by a recovery plan or threat abatement plan, is to apply to that area only, and not to other areas of land.

NB. For the purposes of this section, land is directly affected by a recovery plan or threat abatement plan only if the plan concerned requires measures specified in the plan to be taken by a specified council on or in respect of the land.

No part of the Reserve is affected by a recovery plan that requires measures specified in the plan to be taken by a specified council on or in respect of the land.

36C A plan of management adopted in respect of an area of community land that is the subject of a resolution by the council that declares that the land, being the site of:

a. a known natural, geological, geomorphological, scenic or other feature that is considered by the council to warrant protection or special management considerations, or

b. a wildlife corridor,

is to apply to that area only, and not to other areas of land.

No such resolution has been made by Council.

36D A plan of management adopted in respect of an area of community land that is the subject of a resolution by the council that declares that, because of the presence on the land of any item that the council considers to be of Aboriginal, historical or cultural significance, the land is an area of cultural significance is to apply to that area only, and not to other areas of land.

No such resolution has been made by Council.


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4.2.2 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974

All three species of flying-fox that occur within the Reserve (Grey-headed Flying-fox, Black Flying-fox and Little Red Flying-fox) are protected under Section 98 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act). The Director-General may issue a general licence under Section 120 of the NPW Act to harm protected fauna. The Director-General may issue a scientific licence under Section 132C of the NPW Act to harm, pick or damage protected fauna for scientific, educational or conservation purposes. 4.2.3 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 prohibits the harming, picking, possessing, buying or selling of

individual threatened species. The Act contains a prohibition against the damage of their habitat and contains

provisions to protect endangered populations and threatened ecological communities.

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act. 4.2.4 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Impacts on protected and threatened species are to be considered when assessing and approving proposals under Part 4 or 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). A seven-part assessment of significance in accordance with Section 5A of the EP&A Act is also required to determine if a proposed activity is likely to have a significant impact on a threatened species, population, ecological community or their habitat. 4.2.5 Crown Lands Act 1989

The provisions of the Crown Lands Act 1989 guide the management and use of Crown land as discussed in Section 1.3. Overarching principles are outlined in Section 11 of the Act, the Principles of Crown Land Management, and are as follows;

That environmental protection principles be observed in relation to the management and administration of Crown land;

That the natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) be conserved wherever possible;

That public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged;

Where appropriate, multiple use of Crown land is encouraged;

Where appropriate, Crown land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land and its resources are sustained in perpetuity;

That Crown land be occupied, used, sold, leased, licensed or otherwise dealt with in the best interests of the State consistent with the above principles.

Three of the four reserves forming the Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve covered by this PoM constitute ‘reserves’ within the meaning of Part 5 of the Crowns Land Act 1989. BSC is the Trust manager of two of these Crown Reserves. Under Section 98 of the CL Act if a council is the manager of a reserve trust and the reserve (or the part of the reserve) is a public reserve, the trust has all the functions of a council under the Local Government Act 1993 in relation to public reserves. There is no formal Plan of Management in place pursuant to Section 112 of the CL Act. Council have relied on previous plans / studies, and land use zoning to guide management.

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/xref/inforce/?xref=Type%3Dact%20AND%20Year%3D1993%20AND%20no%3D30&nohits=y

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/xref/inforce/?xref=Type%3Dact%20AND%20Year%3D1993%20AND%20no%3D30&nohits=y


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4.2.6 State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (ISEPP)

ISEPP aims to facilitate the effective delivery of infrastructure across the state, including infrastructure facilities within public reserves. Clause 65 of the ISEPP permits development without consent within a reserve if the development is for the purposes of implementing a plan of management adopted for the subject land. Such works generally require an environmental assessment (Review of Environmental Factors) and an associated approval under Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

4.3 Local Government Legislation and Policy

4.3.1 Bellingen Local Environmental Plan 2010

The Reserve is located within the BSC LGA and covered under the Bellingen Local Environment Plan (LEP) 2010. The Reserve is covered by the following zonings (refer to Illustration 4.1):

RE1 Public Recreation: this covers the old Bellingen Caravan Park, River Place Reserve and The Point. Objectives of this zone are:

– To enable land to be used for public open space or recreational purposes.

– To provide a range of recreational settings and activities and compatible land uses.

– To protect and enhance the natural environment for recreational purposes.

E2 Environmental Conservation: this covers the core rainforest remnant on Bellingen Island. The objectives of this zone are:

– To protect, manage and restore areas of high ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic values.

– To prevent development that could destroy, damage or otherwise have an adverse effect on those values.

E3 Environmental Management: this covers the remainder of Bellingen Island. The objectives of this zone are:

– To protect, manage and restore areas with special ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic values.

– To provide for a limited range of development that does not have an adverse effect on those values.

Two local heritage listed items are relevant to the Reserve:

I21, Bellingen Cultural planting—Cedars Caravan Park. This item is in relation to the mature red cedars and Camphor Laurel in the old Bellingen Caravan Park. The heritage inventory for this item states that they are from the period between 1926 - 1950. The statement of significance states: “Uncommon group of mature red cedar in town area.”

I99, Native vegetation—Bellingen Island Reserve. This item covers Bellingen Island. The statement of significance states: “Rare rainforest and wildlife habitat, scenically prominent on island adjacent to town of Bellingen”.

5


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Action Plan 6

6

6

The following section outlines the management actions to achieve the core objectives of the PoM as detailed in Section 1.4. The life of the PoM is 10 years, with a review recommended at 5 years. Timeframes for actions recommended are:

short: < 2 years

medium: 2-8 years

long: > 8 years

ongoing: work without a definitive time period for action. Responsibility (refer to Table 5.1) refers to the organisation or authority that will have the most influence over actually implementing the proposed management action. It does not necessarily indicate that this organisation or authority is required to fund the management action. Possible sources of funding and useful websites are listed in Appendix A and are provided as suggestions only.


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Table 5.1 Action Plan

Action Priority Management Objective (refer to Section 1.4)

Management Details Responsibility Performance Indicators Timeframe

1. Biodiversity Management

1.1

Finalise and obtain council endorsement of the Vegetation Management Plan (VMP - Grace – Hely 2010)

High 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12; 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 24, 29, 30

The VMP identifies a number of vegetation rehabilitation and restoration actions for the Reserve. Finalisation and BSC endorsement of the VMP is important for establishing clear aims and objectives for relevant stakeholders.

BSC, Landcare VMP finalised and endorsed by BSC. Commence: short.

1.2

Obtain funding to implement Vegetation Management Plan

High 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12; 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 24, 29, 30

As discussed previously, the draft Vegetation Management Plan (VMP - Grace – Hely 2010) identifies a number of vegetation rehabilitation and restoration actions for the Reserve. Eight ‘Vegetation Management Zones’ are identified along with corresponding weed control management options.

During implementation of on-ground works, the following would be followed:

any works within 50 m of the core flying-fox camp area would be restricted to small areas to minimise flying-fox disturbance;

visual monitoring of flying-foxes would be undertaken whilst carrying out on-ground works around the camp. If large numbers of flying-foxes are disturbed (e.g. >100), works in the vicinity of the camp would stop immediately;

noisy machinery is not permitted within 50 m of the camp from October to April;

only biodegradable chemicals appropriate for riparian environments would be used;

BSC, Landcare rainforest enhanced through regeneration and restoration works;

weed incursion reduced;

natural restoration continuing where native seed banks are still present;

quality and quantity of vegetation suitable for Flying-fox roosting on Bellingen Island increased;

spill over of Flying-foxes into the Old Caravan Park Site, River Place Reserve and adjacent residential lots reduced;

improved bank stability; and

overall visual amenity of Bellingen Island enhanced.

Commence: short.

Implementation: Ongoing.


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chemicals usage methods in riparian zones would be undertaken to ensure negligible impacts on frogs and other aquatic life;

no machinery would be driven on the river banks during summer months; and

any vegetation with potential to support the Giant Barred Frog would be raked before any machinery can be used in that area.

1.3

Obtain legislative approvals for implementation of VMP

High 35 Obtain legislative approvals for implementation of VMP. This would include obtaining approval under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and a license under the Crown Lands Act 1989.

BSC legislative approvals obtained; and

safeguards to minimise environmental impacts associated with on-ground vegetation management works associated with the VMP identified and implemented.

Short

1.4

Undertake riparian restoration using principles of Estuary Action Plan

High 3, 10, 32 Extend principles of BSCs ‘Estuary Action Plan’ to riparian areas of Bellinger River upstream of Lavenders’ Bridge, to guide riparian rehabilitation efforts. Objectives include:

identify the main threats to river health;

develop general management recommendations to address these threats;

develop ‘Site Action Plans’ (SAPs) for each property, outlining and costing recommended activities;

SAPs used to guide routine management and to secure funding for implementation of on-ground works; and

achieve target condition along each reach (medium to long-term aim).

This is mainly relevant to the Point as the erosion management works and implementation of the VMP include relevant management actions for Bellingen Island.

BSC, NRCMA, Lands

working document following principles of ‘Estuary Action Plan’ for riparian areas of Bellinger River upstream of Lavenders’ Bridge develop; and

identified actions for management of riparian vegetation at The Point implemented.

Short to medium


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1.5

Undertake biodiversity monitoring

Medium 34 Develop and implement monitoring program to monitor implementation of the VMP and biodiversity of the Reserve. Existing data from previous studies and investigations should be included for base line data where appropriate. This should include

consolidating existing data and undertake flora surveying where required to develop an updated flora list for entire the Reserve. Fixed point monitoring sites should be established to monitor native and weed species diversity and abundance. Threatened flora and Carronia Vine should be targeted and their distribution and abundance documented and monitored;

consolidating existing data and undertake fauna surveying to develop a seasonal fauna list for the Reserve;

monitoring of flying-fox numbers and population composition, GIS mapping of ‘core’ camp areas and changes overtime, identification of local key foraging resources and resources utilized during times of camp influxes >20,000, and monitoring of flying-fox responses to restoration activities. Grey-headed Flying-fox data should be incorporated into monitoring undertaken as part of the draft national recovery plan (DECCW 2009);

progress of implementation of VMP; and

documenting pest fauna occurrence, and management required and undertaken.

Flying-fox monitoring should be undertaken monthly, while vegetation and other fauna monitoring should occur every 2 years. Appropriate actions to protect any identified threatened flora should be developed and communicated to all persons involved in undertaking on ground-works at the Reserve.

BSC, Landcare, OEH

monitoring program established and implemented;

flying-fox counts undertaken monthly;

follow up monitoring for other components undertaken every 2-3 years;

adaptive management responses identified and implemented; and

Grey-headed Flying-fox monitoring data incorporated with DECCW 2009 monitoring.

Commence: short.

Implementation: Long.


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This task should be undertaken in conjunction with the local landcare groups who have extensive knowledge of the ecology of the Reserve.

Adaptive management approach should be applied, and any required changes incorporated into the PoM at review points.

1.6

Identify if flying-fox electrocution is an issue adjacent to the Reserve; and if so, undertake actions to reduce the risk.

Medium 31 Liaise with Essential Energy, WIRES and adjacent residence to identify if flying-fox electrocution is an issue adjacent to the Reserve. If electrocution is identified as an issue, opportunities to reduce the risk of flying-fox electrocution would be investigated and implemented.

BSC, Essential Energy, adjacent residents, WIRES

whether flying-fox electrocution is an issue adjacent to the Reserve is identified; and

if flying-fox electrocution is an issue adjacent to the Reserve, appropriate actions to reduce the risk of electrocution are implemented.

Medium

1.7

Manage exotic fauna

High 12, 31 Encourage reporting of feral pest and stray domestic pet by stakeholder working at the Reserve (e.g. Landcare groups and Council maintenance personnel). Implement pest and stray domestic pet management in accordance with BSC and LHPA responsibilities.

Undertake community education regarding impacts of domestic animals on flying-foxes if domestic animals are determined to be having an impact.

BSC, LHPA proactive pest management undertaken as required;

stray cats and dogs removed from the Reserve by Council rangers as required; and

reduces occurrence of domestic animals within the Reserve.

Ongoing

1.8

Develop hygiene protocols for on-ground works personnel

High 12, 31 Develop and communicate hygiene protocols for on-ground works personnel to minimise the risk of:

spreading weeds to and from, and around the site; and

introducing Amphibian Chytrid Fungus (TSC Act key threatening process).

BSC, OEH, Landcare

hygiene protocols developed, communicated to and adhered to by all on-ground personnel.

Short

1.9

Develop a fire management plan

Medium 12, 31 Fire management plan developed to allow for rapid response to all wildfires and arson in the Reserve.

BSC, OEH, Lands fire management plan development; and

wildfire or arson events are rapidly extinguished.

Short


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1.10

Manage access to Bellingen Island

Medium 4, 28 Only allow informal public access to and around Bellingen Island to reduce the risk of vandalism and minimise the likelihood of the public coming into contact with orphaned or diseased bats. Unnecessary access tracks are re-vegetated.

BSC, Landcare access tracks across the Bellingen Island remain informal;

unnecessary access tracks are closed and re-vegetated; and

incidences of vandalism are minimised.

Short

1.11

Investigate opportunities for artificial flying-fox roosting structures

High 28, 30, 31, 33 Investigate opportunities to install artificial flying-fox roosting structures along the western interface of the lowland floodplain rainforest on Bellingen Island. Artificial flying-fox roosting structures are installed if appropriate.

BSC investigation of feasibility of installing artificial flying-fox roosting structures undertaken; and

artificial flying-fox roosting structures installed if appropriate.

Medium

1.12

Encourage research within the Reserve

Medium 9, 13, 27 Formalise relations with relevant research stakeholder groups associated with the Reserve to continue current and encourage new research projects. Benefits would include:

sharing of relevant information where appropriate;

greater input into new project scopes as well as where information gaps are identified; and

streamline research process to avoid duplication of research projects.

This should be correlated to the Action 1.5 Biodiversity monitoring, where appropriate.

BSC, NRCMA, OEH, relevant territory education institutions

current levels of research maintained or increased.

Medium

2. Erosion Management

2.1

Undertake erosion management works at storm water drain outlet, Bellingen Island east

High 19, 20, 21, 23, 32 Investigate causes of erosion at the storm water drain outlet at the end of Red Ledge Lane. Design and undertake appropriate works to remediated scour and prevent future erosion. Legislative approval may need to be obtained prior to commencement of works.

BSC scour at storm water outlet repaired; and

no erosion occurs during subsequent significant rainfall events.

Short


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2.2

Undertake erosion management works at the slumped bank on the east side of Bellingen Island

High 19, 20, 21, 23, 32 Council and adjoining landholders located off Hammond Street to continue working together:

identify and manages causes of the river bank slump;

design and obtain legislative approvals where appropriate; and

undertake works to protect the slumped river bank and adjacent properties.

BSC, adjacent landholders off Hammond Street

causes of bank slump identified;

bank stabilised; and

no erosion or slumping occurs during subsequent significant rainfall events.

Short

2.3

Back stability and erosion monitoring

High 32 Develop and undertake a proactive bank stability and erosion monitoring schedule. This would include:

monitoring of bank stability structure and undertake repairs as required;

post flooding inspections to identify any erosion sites; and

design, obtain legislative approvals and undertaking bank stability works as required.

BSC, NRCMA, NSW Crown Lands Division

regular (particularly post flooding) inspections of at risk sites and bank stability structure undertaken;

weakness in bank stability structures identified and repaired; and

areas at high risk of erosion are identified and management accordingly.

Commence: short.

Implementation: Ongoing.

3. Recreational Management

3.1

Develop a flying-fox viewing platform and interpretive area

Medium 25, 26, 33 Investigate the suitability of a flying-fox viewing platform and interpretive area off Hammond Street (refer to Illustration 5.1). If appropriate design, obtain relevant approvals and construct a viewing-platform with interpretive material. This location is the preferred location for a viewing platform as:

it is a short walking distance from town and would complement existing footpath infrastructure; and

provides good views of the rainforest and flying-fox camp while avoiding disturbances to the flying-foxes.

Corresponding weed management works would be required to enhance site distances to the island.

BSC viewing-platform with interpretive material regarding Bellingen Island constructed.

Medium


49



3.2

Develop a Recreational Landscape Management Plan for The Point

Medium 10, 11, 24 Develop and implement a Recreational Landscape Plan for The Point. This should include:

identifying designated access points to the river that limit the potential for bank erosion;

weed management;

replanting with appropriate endemic species along the riparian zone. Key viewing areas could be maintained through planting an appropriate selection of native shrubs and groundcovers in selected areas; and

identifying other recreational infrastructure to complement the site.

The design must give due consideration to the flooding constraints of the site as well as the character of the area.

BSC recreational Landscape Plan for The Point created and implemented; and

aesthetics and recreational opportunities at The Point improved, whilst maintaining the character of the area.

Medium

3.3

Maintain River Place Reserve management regime

Medium 25, 27 Current management of River Place Reserve (ie. mowing and maintaining the playground area as required) to continue in associated with flying-fox / human conflicts actions (Action 4.2).

BSC current aesthetics and recreational values of River Place Reserve maintained.

Ongoing

3.4

Increase aesthetics and recreational values of the old Bellingen Caravan Park site and reduce the occurrence of illegal camping

Medium 4, 13, 25, 27, 33 The following management tasks would be investigated and implemented to increase the public recreation values of the old Bellingen Caravan Park site without compromising its heritage or flying-fox roost values in the medium term:

upon completion of the current lease of the house / old office building and relocation of the remaining caravan tenant (and subject to the outcomes of any Feasibility Study conducted pursuant to Action 3.5),buildings are assessed for potential future use or removal from the site. A small tool shed consistent with the character of the site could be established in an appropriate location adjacent to

BSC aesthetics and public recreational usage of Bellingen Island Reserve increased for the local community; and

illegal camping reduced through increased public surveillance and reduced vehicle access.

Medium


50



Bellingen Island for storage of tools for landcare volunteers;

control vehicle access across the site including:

- control access of residences that use Red Ledge Lane to reduce driving in the reserve;

- restrict car access either to Dowle Street or a designated access and carpark area;

- remove and rehabilitate redundant roads to increase grass cover;

- retain and maintain the slab and post fence on the Dowle Street boundary of the OCP; and

install No Camping signs at entrance ways to the Reserve, including at the OCP and The Point carpark.

3.5

Investigate opportunities to establish a community sustainability living and learning centre at the old Bellingen Caravan Park Site

High 1, 2 Investigate opportunities to establish a community sustainability living and learning centre at the old Bellingen Caravan Park site. This investigation would be in the form of a feasibility study to determine the viability of such a project.

The feasibility study will need to investigate:

preservation of public recreation values of the site for the local community;

the significant flooding constraints of the site;

implications and impacts of bringing activities closer to the bat colony;

ongoing operational costs including staffing of the centre; and

potential adaptation of existing buildings and / or infrastructure on site.

BSC, NSW Crown Lands Division

preparation of a feasibility study into the proposed community sustainability living and learning centre.

Long


51



3.6

Subject to Action 3.5, construction of a community sustainability living and learning centre at the old Bellingen Caravan Park site

High 1, 2 If appropriate design, obtain relevant approvals and construct a community sustainability and learning centre at the old Bellingen Caravan Park site.

BSC construction of building following feasibility study.

Long

4. Additional Human / Flying-fox Conflict Management Actions

4.1

Community information and education

High 26, 28, 33 Inform the community about flying-fox management at the Reserve through:

council website updates;

media releases; and

information packages for adjacent landholders or other concerned community members.

Information should include (but not be limited to):

long-term strategy for managing flying-foxes (i.e. enhance roosting values of the Bellingen Island away from residencies);

how to make their properties less attractive to flying-foxes (refer to Action 4.2 and 4.3);

threats to the flying-fox and relevant threat abatement measures;

health information relating to flying-foxes;

keeping domestic animals away from the Reserve; and

BSC, OEH, WIRES community has greater understanding of the long-term strategy for managing flying-foxes;

complaints to Council regarding flying-foxes are reduced; and

sick flying-foxes or other fauna associated with the reserve are reported to local animal welfare group (i.e. WIRES).

Short


52



encourage joining volunteer weed control group and explaining how it will help minimise flying-fox roosting in / adjacent to backyards in the long-term.

4.2

Reduce human / flying-fox conflicts for adjacent residence through vegetation management

High 28 Liaise with adjoining landholders to identify specific vegetation management actions to minimise human / flying-fox conflicts such as:

removal or trimming of potential roost trees on private lots where they overhang dwellings, car parking areas, clothes lines, etc. Legislative approvals would need to be obtained where appropriate;

trim potential flying-fox roosting or foraging trees along the edge of the Reserve which over hang adjacent private properties. Legislative approvals would need to be obtained where appropriate;

planting of non-roost vegetation to screen / buffer flying-fox camp as appropriate (would mainly have aesthetic benefits); and

planting potential flying-fox food sources away from dwellings, clothes lines, etc.

BSC (advisory role only for works on private property), local residence

flying-fox / human conflicts with adjoining landholders are reduced; and

complaints to Council regarding flying-foxes are reduced.

Medium

4.3

Identify opportunities to undertake building modifications to reduce human / flying-fox conflicts

Medium 28 Liaise with adjoining landholders to identify actions to reduce flying-fox / human conflicts, such as:

building carports over car parking areas;

relocation of clothes lines;

installation of acoustic batts;

laminate or double glaze windows; and

ways to protect backyard orchards.

BSC (advisory role only), local residence

flying-fox / human conflicts with adjoining landholders are reduced; and

complaints to Council regarding flying-foxes are reduced.

Medium


53



5. Additional Community Based Actions

5.1

Engage with indigenous stakeholders to encourage Reserve management participation

Medium 27 Liaise with local indigenous stakeholder groups to discuss input into the management of the Reserve and possible interpretive material.

BSC appropriate liaison with Indigenous stakeholder groups is undertaken and incorporated into reserve management.

Short

5.2

Investigate and implement management measures to reduce vandalism within the Reserve

High 4, 11 Work with stakeholders to provide measures that inform the community of the value of the Reserve.

Provide signage to discourage vandalism and provide contact details for reporting of vandalism.

Install No Camping signs at entrance ways to the Reserve, including at the OCP and The Point car park.

BSC, Landcare, CMA, OEH, NSW Crown Lands Division, local residents

reduction in the occurrence of vandalism within the reserve

Short

0 50


Illustration

Proposed Viewing Platform

North 5.1

Proposed viewing platform location


L E G E N D The ReserveRiparian Rainforest (EEC)Managed Grassland and ParklandLowland Floodplain Rainforest (EEC)Weedy Shrubland-Grassland

Bellinger River

Red

Ledg

e Lan

e

Dowle Street

Hammond Street

Project Team


55

The project team members included: David Andrighetto Ecologist Simon Waterworth Senior Planner / Principal

References


57

Bellingen Island Reserve Management Committee (1999). Draft Bellingen Island Conservation Plan. Unpublished report.

Bellingen Shire Council (undated A). The Rainforest. Bellingen Shire Council website: http://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/environment/2732/2739.html Accessed 02 May 2011

Bellingen Shire Council (undated B). The History of Bellingen Island. Bellingen Shire Council website: http://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/environment/2732/2739.html Accessed 02 May 2011

Bellingen Shire Council (undated C). Lower Bellingen and Kalang Rivers Floodplain Management Study – Stage 2 Assessment of Floodplain Management Options and Strategies: North Bellingen. Bellingen Shire Council, Bellingen.

BMT WBM (2010a). Climate Change Projections for the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area. Draft Milestone Report 1 prepared for Coffs Harbour City Council.

BMT WBM (2010b). Coffs Harbour Coastal Processes and Hazards Definition Study. Draft Report prepared for Coffs Harbour City Council.

Bureau of Meteorology (2011). Climate Data Online. http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/data/. Accessed 02 May 2011

CHBRG (2010). Vegetation Management Plan – Bellingen Island Reserve.

Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW. (2009). Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-Fox Pteropus poliocephalus. Prepared by Dr Peggy Eby. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney. Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (2007). Flying-fox Camp Management Policy, Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW, Sydney Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2011). Protected Matters Search Tool. http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html. Accessed 28 April 2011 Department of Land and Water Conservation (1995). Acid Sulfate Soil Risk Map – Bellingen/Raleigh. Department of Land and Water Conservation, Sydney.

Eby, P. (2008). Overview of Flying-fox Biology and Ecology. In Managing Flying-fox Camps for Land Managers. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Sydney.

Flametree Ecological Consulting and Bellingen Shire Council (2008). Draft Plan of Management for Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve. Unpublished report.

Flametree Ecological Consulting (2007). Flora and Fauna Assessment of Proposed Weed Control Works, Bellingen Island. Unpublished report to Bellingen Shire Council. Flametree Ecological Consulting, Bellingen.

Fleming, T.H. and Eby, P., (2003). Ecology of Bat migration. Pp. 156-208 in Ecology of Bats, edited by T.H. Kunz and M.B. Fenton. University of Chicago Press, Chicago USA. GeoLINK (2010). Final Maclean Flying-fox Management Strategy. Prepared for: Joint venture between Clarence Valley Council, and Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water on behalf of the Maclean Flying-fox Working Group. GeoLINK Consulting Pty, Ltd, Lennox Heads.

Grace – Hely, K. (2010). Vegetation Management Plan – Draft Bellingen Island Reserve. Unpublished report to Bellingen Shire Council. Coffs Harbour Bushland Regeneration Group Pty. Ltd, Coffs Harbour.

Lunney, D. and Moon, C. (1996). Flying-foxes and their camps in remnant rainforest of north-east New South Wales, in Australia’s Ever-Changing Forest III: Proceedings of the Third National Conference of Australian Forest History. Centre for Resource and Environmental Studies, the Australian National University, Canberra.

http://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/environment/2732/2739.html%20Accessed%2002%20May%202011

http://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/environment/2732/2739.html%20Accessed%2002%20May%202011

http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/data/

http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html


58

Milford, H. B. (1996). Soil Landscapes of the Dorrigo 1:100 000 Sheet Map. Department of Land and Water Conservation, Sydney.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (2011). Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database. http://wildlifeatlas.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/wildlifeatlas/watlas.jsp. Accessed 28 April 2011

NBRS (2010). Statement of Heritage Impact Road Upgrade Works, Waterfall Way. Unpublished report to NSW RTA. Noel Bell Ridley Smith & Partners Pty Limited, Milsons Point, NSW.

NSW Scientific Committee (1999). Lowland rainforest on floodplain in the NSW North Coast Bioregion - endangered ecological community listing. NSW Scientific Committee, Hurstville.

Office of Environment and Heritage (undated). Threatened Species Profiles. OEH Website: http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/. Accessed 02 May 2011.

Parry-Jones, K.A., and Augee, M., (1992). Movements of Grey-headed Flying-foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) to and from a colony site on the central coast of New South Wales. Wildlife Research 19: 331-340. Telfer, D. and Cohen, T. (2010). Bellinger and Kalang River Estuaries and Erosion Study. Unpublished report to Bellingen Shire Council. GECO Environmental, Grassy Head, NSW.

Tidemann, C.R., (1999). Biology and management of the grey-headed flying-fox, Pteropus poliocephalus. In Acta Chiropterologica 1(2) pp. 151-164.

http://wildlifeatlas.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/wildlifeatlas/watlas.jsp.%20Accessed%2028%20April%202011

http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/

Copyright and Usage


59

GeoLINK, 2012 This document, including associated Illustrations and drawings, was prepared for the exclusive use of Bellingen Shire Council for the Bellingen Island Integrated Reserve Plan of Management. It is not to be used for any other purpose or by any other person, corporation or organisation without the prior consent of GeoLINK. GeoLINK accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage suffered howsoever arising to any person or corporation who may use or rely on this document for a purpose other than that described above. This document, including associate illustrations and drawings, may not be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form without the prior consent of GeoLINK. This includes extracts of texts or parts of illustrations and drawings. The information provided on illustrations is for illustrative and communication purposes only. Illustrations are typically a compilation of data supplied by others and created by GeoLINK. Illustrations have been prepared in good faith, but their accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. There may be errors or omissions in the information presented. In particular, illustrations cannot be relied upon to determine the locations of infrastructure, property boundaries, zone boundaries, etc. To locate these items accurately, advice needs to be obtained from a surveyor or other suitably-qualified professional. Topographic information presented on the drawings is suitable only for the purpose of the document as stated above. No reliance should be placed upon topographic information contained in this report for any purpose other than that stated above.

Appendix A


A Possible Funding Sources and Useful Websites


Australian Carbon Traders http://www.australiancarbontraders.com/ Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities http://www.environment.gov.au/about/programs/gveho/index.html Australian Government Caring for Country http://australia.gov.au/topics/environment-and-natural-resources/environment-grants Bellingen Urban Landcare http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au/project/the-point/ http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au/project/western-end-of-bellingen-island/ Caring for Country http://www.nrm.gov.au/index.html Green Corp http://www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/JSA/EmploymentServices/Pages/NEIS.aspx Landcare Australia http://www.landcareonline.com.au/ Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority http://www.northern.cma.nsw.gov.au/funding.php NSW Environment Trust http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants/envtrust.htm OEH Information http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/policiesandguidelines/flyingfoxcamppol.htm Protecting Commercial Crops from Flying-fox Damage http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/wildlifelicences/s120licence.htm Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/welcome_to_bgt/royal_botanic_gardens/garden_features/wildlife/flying-foxes The Ian Potter Foundation http://www.ianpotter.org.au/ The Myer Foundation's and Sidney Myer Fund’s http://www.myerfoundation.org.au/ Threatened Species Listing http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/GreyheadedFlyingFoxVulSpListing.htm Queensland Government Information http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/wildlifeecosystems/wildlife/living_with_wildlife/flyingfoxes/ WIRES Northern NSW http://www.wiresnr.org/Flyingfoxes.html Wildlife Save our Species Inc. www.wildlifesos.org.au

http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au/

http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au/project/the-point/

http://www.bellingenurbanlandcare.org.au/project/western-end-of-bellingen-island/


WWF Australia http://wwf.org.au/ourwork/species/tsngrants/

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