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WOLLSTONECRAFT BUSHLAND REMNANT

TITLE: Smoothey Park/Gore Cove Bushland INTRODUCTION Smoothey Park consists of remnant bushland and open areas of lawn scattered with exotic (ornamental) trees and shrubs. Gore Cove consists of a narrow corridor of remnant vegetation behind residential properties. Together they are bordered by the North Shore Railway Line, Russell Street, residential properties of Milray Avenue and Berrys Creek. The total bushland area is approximately 4.5 hectares. The dominant vegetation association is Open Forest (10ag) Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt) community. Alongside the creek is a remnant Closed Forest (10ag) Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood) community. Berrys Creek is the longest stretch of natural open creekline left in North Sydney. Weed species such as Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) are prolific along parts of this creekline. In some areas only a few remnant native species remain. This is due to past soil disturbance, nutrient enriched stormwater and urban runoff. Other weed species have spread from the backyards of some residential properties along Milray Avenue. In other areas, good examples of remnant Hawksbury Sandstone vegetation can be seen. Bush regeneration activities are carried out by Contractors, Council=s Bushland Management Team and the dedicated Smoothey Park Bushcare Group. Wildlife Watch sightings in the area indicate that a wide diversity of fauna species reside or visit the bushland, especially birdlife, when compared to other areas in North Sydney.

Site History Aboriginals frequented the valley and used the creek as a fresh water supply for thousands of years. Shell middens are represented in the area and perhaps many other signs of Aboriginal life are present but remain undiscovered. The Aboriginal name for this area has been lost along with most verbal history of the local indigenous people. The successive generations of Aboriginal people had a deep respect for the area, living in natural harmony with the environment for many thousands of years. Smoothey Park was named after Mr S Smoothey who was an Alderman of North Sydney Council from 1911 to 1920. He had his plumber=s workshop on Lane Cove Road (now the Pacific Highway). Both Smoothey Park and Gore Cove were a part of the original Berry/Wollstonecraft Estate which remained undeveloped during their ownership. The steep terrain in the Gore Cove area would have been the primary reason for the lack of development along the edge of Berry Creek. Most early land grants along Sydney Harbour foreshores included a 100ft reservation strip along the shoreline for public recreation. This factor would have also played a role in foreshore areas remaining undeveloped in the early stages of Sydney=s development. Historic European features of Gore Cove include stone rubble walling, masonry walling, a rock-cut chamber and various rectangular cuts in the base of Berrys Creek. The interpretation of the purpose of such features is not conclusive, however all features mentioned above would be >relics= as defined in the NSW Heritage Act, 1977 (Lavelle, 1995). It is speculated that such features may have been associated with early Water Board activities in the 1920's or for a local industrial purpose.

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Removal of native vegetation to create the areas of lawn in Smoothey Park was undertaken without major soil disturbance or the use of fill soil. Therefore the original soil remains and would respond well to rehabilitation.

The construction of the Gore Cove Track was originally completed in 1988 by members of a Redcore Employment Project of the time and upgraded in 1996 to blend with the surrounding environment and provide interpretive and directional signage to further assist and educate reserve users. Smoothey Park Bushcare Group was formed in 1994 and currently meet twice a month. Two individuals are also part of the volunteer Bushcare Program undertaking activities on and behind their properties of Milray Avenue. The Smoothey Park Bushcare Group have been responsible for bush regeneration in the Park since 1994. The group have regenerated a number of areas to a condition of native bushland including the area below the Scout Hall, the bushland along Berrys Creek and rehabilitated land alongside the North Shore Railway Line. Techniques employed have included primary, secondary and maintenance weeding; laying of jute mat for weed suppression, planting locally indigenous species and spraying and mulching lawn areas as they are slowly reclaimed as bushland. Bushcare follow-up activities are carried out by the Bushland Management Team on the Monday following the weekend volunteer Bushcare day in Smoothey Park. The Bush Regeneration Team visits each bushland reserve on a weekly rotational basis. Gore Cove was regenerated for approximately 8 weeks in 1998. Activities include the maintenance of the native garden at the entrance to the Gore Cove Track off Shirley Road and primary, secondary and maintenance weeding below the Gore Cove Track from 2-20 Milray Avenue. Contract Bush Regenerators have been working in the Gore Cove area since 1997. Activities in 1997-98 included primary, secondary and maintenance weeding along the northern section of the creekline with the woody weeds being stacked on site for future pile burns. Other works have also commenced around major runoff channels at the rear of specific residential properties along Milray Avenue.

BACKGROUND Reserve Summary

Title

Smoothey Park

Gore Cove

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Area of Reserve 9 381 m2 36 161m2 Level of Degradation:

<10%

6 443 m2

6 888 m2

10-30%

1 037 m2

8 363 m2

31-60%

1 901 m2

6 847 m2

>60%

NIL

14 062 m

Length of Boundaries

700 m

2 046 m

No. of Properties Adjoining Bushland

1

46

Length of walking track

1 174 m

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

Smoothey Park/Gore Cove consists of 4 remnant vegetation communities which are part of the Sydney Sandstone Complex - Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (10ag) as indicated by Benson and Howell, 1994. The vegetation is symbolic of the North Shore and consists of: 1. Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperta (Sydney Peppermint) Open Forest/Woodland on the hill slopes with an understorey dominated by Pittosporum undulatum, Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree), Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and Pteridium esculentum (Bracken fern). 2. Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) and Casuarina glauca (Swamp She-oak) Low Open Forest adjacent to where Berrys Creek enters Gore Bay, 3. Ceratopetalum gummiferum (Coachwood) Closed Forest in the steep gully adjacent to Berrys Creek surviving amongst numerous Large Leaf Privet trees (Ligustrum lucidum), and 4. Avicennia marina (Grey Mangrove) Open Scrub/ Herbland which is slowly colonising the mudflat area. At the most northern section of Smoothey Park and scattered throughout the residential areas are remnant Turpentine trees (Syncarpia glomulifera). The presence of Turpentine trees suggest there is an underlying change in soil type. This is indicative of a transitional zone between Hawksbury Sandstone and the Wianamatta Shale which exists on the ridgetop areas. The Wianamatta Shale would have originally supported the Blue Gum High Forest (Eucalyptus saligna). Today, only a few specimens of Blue Gum remain protected in bushland of Newlands Lane Reserve.

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For further information see: Appendices 1 - Table 1: Classification information on vegetation communities. Section 3 - Native plant species list for Smoothey Park/Gore Cove.

1.1 Creekline Vegetation Berrys Creek is the discharge point for the stormwater runoff from Crows Nest and St. Leonards. In times of rain the flow of water down the creek reaches a very high velocity. The vegetation along the Creek bank is frequently disturbed by the high speed of the water. The gouging action of the water has caused severe erosion and in some sections trees have fallen from the banks after many years of being constantly undercut. Berrys Creek is also a source of weed seed and increased nutrient pollution from the upper catchment. This has influenced the spread of weed species along the banks of Berrys Creek affecting both the Smoothey Park and Gore Cove bushland areas. Many Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) trees are now out competing the remnant native canopy of Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood) and Acmena smithii (Lilypily). The presence of estuarine plant life is very limited. Species such as Avicennia marina (Grey Mangrove), Suaeda australis (Austral Seablite) and Tetragonia tetragonioides are present on the tidal mudflat where the water is brackish. The marine waters bordering the bushland of Gore Cove are part of a large Intertidal Protection Area (IPA) for Sydney Harbour. For further information see: The Department of Fisheries, Wollstonecraft.

1.2 Weed Assessment Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of Weed Zones at Smoothey Park and Gore Cove.

Weeds species are present along the banks of Berrys Creek for several reasons. Increased nutrients (especially nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilisers used on gardens, detergents etc.) and weed seeds originating in the urban catchment area end up in this waterway via the stormwater. Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) and Small Leaf Privet (Ligustrum sinense) have thickly colonised the southern stretch of Berrys Creek due to stormwater, past soil disturbances and infilling as a result of early Water Board activities or local industry in the 1920's. The majority of weeds adjacent to residential boundaries have escaped from urban gardens of Milray Avenue and are invading the bushland. There is also increased moisture coming from properties as a result of runoff from hard impervious surfaces, watering systems in gardens and pools. This hard surface runoff is detrimental to the existing native vegetation and favours the weed species as they tolerate such high moisture, high nutrient conditions. Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica) are prevalent along the boundary of residential properties in Gore Cove. Pittosporum undulatum is successfully colonising the area. The spread of the species is aided by the berry eating birds which feed on the fruits of this tree. Pittosporum and other native trees such as Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese

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Tree) flourish in high moisture and high nutrient conditions and in areas where fire has been excluded for long periods. To assist regeneration the area may have to be planted with local indigenous species. The placement of these plants will reflect their natural occurrence in the existing bushland ecosystem. For further information see: Appendices 1 - Table 2: Weed assessment details. Section 4 - Weed species list for North Sydney.

1.3 Vulnerable and Threatened Species There are no known vulnerable or threatened flora species in the Smoothey Park/Gore Cove area as listed in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

1.4 Locally Rare Species Locally rare species include Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flower), Eucalyptus haemastoma (Scribbly Gum) in the Open Forest and Endiandra sieberi (Corkwood) in the Closed Forest. For further information see: Appendices 1 - Table 3: Locally rare species (regional comparisons). Section 7 for the status of each locally rare species in North Sydney. 2.0 FAUNA

2.1 Terrestrial Vertebrates Smoothey Park and Gore Cove bushland provide a diverse range of habitats which are able to support a diversity of native fauna. As can be seen from the species list for the area, there is a wide range of birds species (eg. Kingfishers, Robins, Wrens, Parrots and Rosellas) and the mudflat attracts many seabirds (eg. Herons, Cormorants, Ibis). Ring-tailed Possums also inhabit the bushland as indicated by the numerous dreys found in the midstorey and canopy of native vegetation. The Eastern Rosella, Crimson Rosella, Laughing Kookaburra and Tawny Frogmouth are occasionally seen in bushland along Berrys Creek. Numerous Pied Currawongs and Noisy Miners are frequently seen throughout both Smoothey Park and Gore Cove bushland. There is a lack of nesting hollows in the North Sydney area due to the lack of old native trees that tend to bear such hollows. Native birds, arboreal mammals and bats suffer from the lack of safe nesting and roosting sites. These creatures play an important role in the ecology of the vegetation communities of Smoothey Park and Gore Cove. For further information see: Section 5 - Fauna in North Sydney. Section 8 - Law and Policy: National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974.

2.2 Other Native Fauna Groups

- Terrestrial Invertebrates, - Aquatic/estuarine Vertebrates, and

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- Aquatic/estuarine Invertebrates. A formal survey of the diversity and abundance of the above groups of organisms has never been undertaken by North Sydney Council. More detailed studies are required. In periods of rain the high velocity of water flowing down Berrys Creek turns it into a cascading stream. Random observations of creek life (both invertebrates and vertebrates) indicate degraded and deteriorating stream ecology with only one pair of eels found to be regular inhabitants. Further research into the vertebrates and invertebrates of Berrys Creek would be of considerable value. Two species of frogs live in the sub-catchment. The Brown-stripped Marsh Frog (Limnodynastes peronii) and the Common Eastern Froglet (Crinia signifera). Neither have been found to exist within Berrys Creek. The frogs occupy areas where natural and urban runoff pass through the bushland as it makes its way to Berrys Creek from adjacent houses or nearby roads. Fifty years ago Gore Bay was a large waterhole that local children would swim in. The estuarine mudflat that has developed where Berrys Creek discharges into Gore Bay supports a variety of tidal vertebrate and invertebrate species. Further investigations are needed to ascertain actual species and diversity in this area.

2.3 Introduced and Feral Animals Tracks, scats and other traces of the Red Fox have been identified in Smoothey Park and along the Gore Cove Track. The most recent sighting of a Red Fox was mid-morning in January 1999 along the Gore Cove Track. Various introduced bird species can be occasionally seen in the bushland area. For further information see: Section 5 - Fauna of North Sydney: Introduced Species.

2.4 Vulnerable and Threatened Species There are no vulnerable or threatened fauna species in the Smoothey Park/Gore Cove area as listed in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

2.5 Locally Rare Species A formal survey on the diversity and population size of all existing fauna species in North Sydney has never been undertaken, therefore it is impossible to ascertain whether a species is rare or not. The precautionary principle is utilised in bush regeneration activities to accommodate this lack of knowledge. Current and ongoing data collection of fauna species exists as a result of the Wildlife Watch Program and sightings made by Council Staff and Contractors. All fauna is protected in North Sydney and it is essential to know what exists to assist better management practices. A local resident has reported microbats using a rock shelter on her property in the past, however as the bats are no longer present the specie=s status is difficult to determine. One (known) pair of king parrots annually nest in the same tree hollow at Smoothey Park. Nesting hollows are rare in Smoothey Park. Food supplies for these birds must be plentiful

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enough to sustain a family throughout the entire breeding season. 3.0 BUSHLAND FRAGMENTATION

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of the Gore Cove Track.

The bushland of Smoothey Park/Gore Cove is bordered by residential development and roads. The long thin size of this bushland parcel makes it vulnerable to weed invasion and the harmful effects of stormwater runoff. Smoothey Park has large areas of lawn which is (in some places) invading the native bushland. There is no fill soil used in this area and the original soil would effectively regenerate to support native species. The Gore Cove Track is a formal track designed and upgraded in 1996. Informal tracks throughout the bushland are relatively insignificant.

3.1 Habitat Corridors The bushland of Smoothey Park and Gore Cove is linked to the bushland areas of Greendale St and Holloway Reserve in the Lane Cove Municipality to the west and plan to be linked to Berry Island in the south (see Berry Island Rehabilitation Plan). To further enhance the most northern section of Smoothey Park near Russell Street, all Coral Trees (Erythrina x sykesii) will be removed and replaced with local indigenous canopy species to reinstate the essence of the population which once occurred here. Movement of fauna between adjacent bushland areas is possible through the bushland of Lane Cove Municipality and corridors are being formed between Gore Cove bushland and Berry Island Reserve. This area also links up to Tryon Avenue bushland. Movement for animals is also possible along the railway line corridor. Although most of the vegetation is not native it still provides a safe and protective haven for native animals to move from one area to another. A very thin strip of remnant bushland exists down the centre of Milray Avenue which divides the road. This thin strip will be rehabilitated to form a link between residential gardens and Gore Cove bushland. To enhance Council efforts to rehabilitate the Smoothey Park/Gore Cove bushland area it is a future proposal that the next stage of the Backyard Bushcare Program will be offered to the residents of Milray Avenue which back onto the Reserve. 4.0 FIRE Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for location details of fire history.

Three ecological management burns were planned for Smoothey Park throughout 1996. Two burns were organised on the Bushcare site adjacent to the railway line. Native plant regeneration on these sites was minimal due to the highly disturbed nature of the soil. The area was hence covered in jute mat and planted out with native indigenous species. One other

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pile burn was situated at the base of the hill below the pile burns mentioned above. Several species were regenerated, including Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), native grasses and Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush). During 1996, nine piles of vegetation were burnt evenly to the ground behind 10 Milray Avenue, along the Gore Cove Track. The regeneration from these pile burns has been highly successful with many species germinating eg. Kennedia rubicunda (Dusky Coral Pea), Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), Acacia longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle), Acacia terminalis (Sunshine Wattle).With the combination of bush regeneration practices and the use of fire in an area where there was low species diversity in the midstorey and understorey the native plant regeneration from these burn piles has been highly successful. Fire is an essential ecological tool required to sustain the plant communities of both Smoothey Park and Gore Cove bushland. There are several areas throughout Smoothey Park which require burning for the purposes of maintaining diversity and stimulating the germination of seed of native species which have been eliminated by the absence of fire. The areas burnt shall not be intentionally burnt again within the time frames set out in Section 6 of the Bushland Fire Management Policy, 1997. As addressed in the Bushland Fire Management Policy, 1997: Section 4 several areas that contain high fuel levels require burning not only for ecological purposes but also to manage the fuel levels on some sites. For further information see: Appendices 1 - Table 4: Fire History of Smoothey Park and Gore Cove. Section 9 - Bushland Fire Management Policy for North Sydney Council. 5.0 URBAN RUNOFF Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of stormwater channels.

Stormwater enters Berrys Creek from the large pipe at the northern end of Smoothey Park (adjacent to Russell St) delivering urban runoff, waste water and pollutants from the upper catchment. Runoff also enters the Reserve from open pipes at the back of residential properties which carry road runoff and other hard surface runoff from driveways, roofs and cemented areas. The water moves through the bushland and enters Berrys Creek at various stages and in some cases flows straight into Gore Bay. Rehabilitation of bushland around the larger stormwater pipes will be given priority in the Action Plan over smaller pipes which carry hard surface runoff from surrounding buildings and roads. NOTE: During 1998 Bradfield College conducted a Streamwatch Program along Berrys Creek which involved water quality monitoring, recording signs of life in the Creek and looking at the issues in the catchment that effect the health of the Creek. The results of this study will be made available and perhaps used to influence future projects and programs within the catchment and along Berrys Creek. For Further Information see: Appendices 1 - Table 5: Stormwater Characteristics of Smoothey Park/Gore Cove.

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Port Jackson North Stormwater Management Plan, 1999: Stanton Library.

6.0 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL SITES All Aboriginal sites are significant and protected in the North Sydney area. All sites require specialist management and there are certain procedures which need to be undertaken in relation to bush regeneration practices, monitoring and maintenance processes. The identification and location of all known and potential Aboriginal sites in Smoothey Park/Gore Cove bushland have been recorded on a closed access database and an Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for this bushland area will be prepared in 1999 by North Sydney Council=s Aboriginal Heritage Officer. For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy: Aboriginal Heritage Management. Aboriginal Site Management Strategy for Smoothey Park/Gore Cove Reserve, 1999. Development Control Plan: Heritage and Cultural Resource, 1999. 7.0 EUROPEAN HERITAGE SITES The Gore Cove foreshore reserve has been recognised in the North Sydney Heritage Study (1993; NSHS1134) as having an important local historical, aesthetic and social significance to the area. The adduct that is located along the Gore Cove Track (situated behind No. 62 Milray Ave) has probably been left as a result of Water Board activities earlier this century. It is an area where water accumulates on the shallow tunnel floor. For safety reasons and for the protection of the degraded tunnel, vertical bars will be installed. These will be dark in colour and be set back from the face of the tunnel so that they become camouflaged. A fauna investigation of the cave-like entrance should be undertaken before any work commences. For further information see: North Sydney Heritage Study Review, 1993: Stanton Library. North Sydney Council Heritage Inventory Database: Stanton Library. 8.0 RESERVE USERS The Gore Cove Track provides formal access from Smoothey Park to the remnant bushland of Gore Cove. The track was designed and upgraded in May 1996 and creates a link to Berry Island (via Shirley Rd) and another branch links to Vista St, Greenwich. The entrance to the Gore Cove Track from Shirley Rd will be upgraded in 1999. The concrete pathway will be removed and the crushed sandstone pathway extended to join the top section of the path with the lower section. This is due to the Water Board requiring access to the foreshore to maintain sewage pipes and will therefore be contributing to the upgrade of the entrance from Shirley Rd. It is commonly observed that there are a number of frequent reserve users. The community utilises both Smoothey Park and Gore Cove for: - Walking/dog exercise,

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- Jogging, - School/University groups for outdoor education purposes, - Adventure groups eg. scouts, orienteering, and - Boat storage.

Refer to Map 2 - Land Management Issues for the location of Boat Storage Sites.

The close proximity of Smoothey Park to Wollstonecraft train station makes the bushland reserve accessible to people all over Sydney. In the future the Gore Cove Track will link with a new foreshore track starting at Shirley Road and passing through the bushland of Kerosene Bay, Oyster Cove and onto Horace St and Balls Head Road, Waverton. Once completed, a foreshore track will exist from Wollstonecraft train station to Waverton train station. For further information see: Appendices 1 - Table 6: Boat storage sites.

8.1 Vandalism and Misuse Trees, signs and buildings in Smoothey Park are frequently graffitied. For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy.

9.0 EXISTING PROPERTIES ADJOINING BUSHLAND

9.1 Noxious Weeds Noxious weeds such as Turkey Rhubarb (Acetosa sagittata), Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum), Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica), Asparagus Fern (Protasparagus aethiopicus) and Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) are common in the Gore Cove Reserve especially along the back of the residential properties adjoining the bushland. As regeneration activities are initiated in areas along Gore Cove by the Bushland Management Team, Contractors and/or the Smoothey Park Bushcare Group, Noxious Weed Notices will be sent to adjoining properties if such plants are present on their land.

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For further information see: Section 4 for the Noxious Weed and Environmental Weed list for North Sydney Council area. Section 8 - Law and Policy: Noxious Weeds Act, 1993.

9.2 Encroachment There are two properties along Milray Avenue which have extended gardens and furniture past the boundary of the residence and into the bushland. Any person found to be encroaching onto bushland areas will be approached by Council and the issues concerned will be discussed.

9.3 Dumping

Dumping of garden refuse and household rubbish in this bushland area is minimal. A dumping notice will be sent to residents in the vicinity of where dumping is occurring if it is considered that the dumping is degrading the bushland and/or creating an unnecessary fire hazard along the boundary of the property. For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy: Local Government Act, 1919.

9.4 Pets Dogs and cats are frequently seen along the Gore Cove Track. Should you wish to exercise your dog in the bushland certain conditions apply. Cats may be kept in at night for the benefit of our local nocturnal native fauna. For further information see: Section 8 - Law and Policy: Companion Animals Act, 1999 and Councils Policy on Dog Control in North Sydney.

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10.0 ACTION PLAN

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

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

10.2 Management Strategies and other Programs

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

10.0 ACTION PLAN

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10.1 Rehabilitation Works

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

Identification numbers eg. 1A, 1B etc. shown in the Issues column of the Action Plan relate to the corresponding Map for that zone and the action required.

NOTE: The Rehabilitation Plan is designed to be relevant for a five year period and to be extensively reviewed and updated at the end of this time. OBJECTIVES Smoothey Park/Gore Cove Bushland - To conserve and restore the remnant indigenous plant communities of the area,

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

ZONE 1 Remnant Open Forest/Woodland dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) with an understorey of Dodonaea triquetra (Hop Bush), Zieria smithii (Hairy Zieria), Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and native grass species existing alongside parkland with lawn and scattered ornamental trees. Berrys Creek forms the boarder to Lane Cove Council bushland. Formal sealed pathways are present throughout the park. Large sections of this zone are regenerated by the Smoothey Park Bushcare Group.

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Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Vegetation

Management

1A

Weed species scattered in the understorey, midstorey and throughout the canopy of remnant bushland.

Removal of Pittosporum undulatum from the midstorey and selective removal from the canopy of up to 20% each year. Maintenance (four times per year) of understorey and midstorey seasonal weed invasions and those spread by passing birds. Regular maintenance of rehabilitated areas that were reclaimed in 1998.

MT/O

O

O

Selective removal of Pittosporum undulatum has been completed. Regular maintenance of seasonal weed invasions is undertaken. Regular maintenance of reclaimed areas has been undertaken.

Locally rare Eucalyptus haemastoma (Scribbly Gum) species have been reduced to a few scattered specimens.

Collect seed of Eucalyptus haemastoma (Scribbly Gum) for the North Sydney Seed Bank and propagate the species when required. Plant in appropriate areas that are being regenerated to increase the stock size of this species and ensure its long-term viability in the area. Maintain.

MT

Eucalyptus haemastoma (Scribbly Gum) seed has been collected, propagated and planted into regenerating areas of Smoothey Park bushland where appropriate and maintained.

1B

Extensive areas of Tradescantia albiflora (Wandering Jew) adjacent to Berrys Creek.

Physical removal of small manageable patches of Wandering Jew adjacent to Berrys Creek. Allow time for natural regeneration. Spray regrowth of Wandering Jew with Bi-Active Roundup (or similar with low surfactant) if no regeneration occurs and plant with local indigenous species. Maintain.

MT/O

Small manageable patches of Wandering Jew have been selectively removed and maintained.

Exotic ornamental trees scattered throughout the bushland parcel eg. Coral tree, African Olive, Camphor laurel, Jacaranda, Lemon-scented Gum and Brush boxes of various ages and levels of maturity.

Selectively inject 2 each year. Ornamental trees growing in the bushland that are partly overhanging pathways will be physically removed. Younger specimens will be continuously removed as bush regeneration practices progress.

C/O

Up to 2 ornamental trees have been injected each year. Germination of young ornamental tree growth in bushland has been suppressed.

1C

Native grassland threatened by weeds especially invasive grasses such as Paspalum grass, Pigeon grass, Buffalo grass and Ehrharta grass.

Remove invasive grass species and allow for natural regeneration to occur. Monitor and maintain.

MT

Appropriate monitoring and maintenance is being appropriately carried out.

1D

Turkey Rhubarb (Acetosa sagitata) smothering an area of Pteridium esculentum (Bracken fern) and

Control seed spread; remove the rest of the plant including the tuber.

ST

Seed has been removed from the site and whole plant removed (including tubers).

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Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

spreading seed. Regrowth has been appropriately eliminated.

1E

Weed species from the north Shore Railway impacting upon adjoining rehabilitated areas. Species include Turkey Rhubarb (Acetosa sagitata), Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), Canadian fleabane (Conyza canadensis) and Cobblers Pegs (Bidens pilosa).

Continue to liaise with Railway Services Australia and encourage rehabilitation of railway land south of the Scout Hall. Consider the possibility of having combined working bees in this area between RSA and Smoothey Park Bushcare Group. Arrange to plant buffer zone of Acacia (wattle) species on Railway land next to the fence line in conjunction with Rail Services Australia (RSA).

MT

LT

Communication with RSA is ongoing and working bees have been discussed. Buffer has been planted in co-operation with RSA.

Creekline Vegetation

1F

Eroded banks of Berrys Creek (entire).

Continue to plant creekline species for stabilisation and to increase species diversity, encourage species such as: Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood), Callicoma serratifolia (Black Wattle), Callistemon linearis (Narrow-leaf Bottlebrush), Tristaniopsis laurina (Water Gum), Juncus usitatus (Common Rush), Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush) and various native fern species. Cease mowing grass areas adjacent to Berrys Creek especially areas where native grass species are being mown. This will be done in incremental stages. Allow for existing walkway. Regenerate edges of bushland bordering the reclaimed areas.

C/O

LT/O

Plants are established and maintained. Small areas of native grass and bushland edges are incrementally regenerated and adequately maintained.

Fauna

1G

One Rosella and one King Parrot nesting box to be erected in 1999.

Seasonally monitor the nesting boxes to identify what species are utilising them and to ensure feral animals have not moved in. They will also be checked annually for bees throughout spring (bee swarming season) and to ensure that the box is not causing damage to the host tree. (See Nesting Box Installation Form).

C/O

Nesting boxes are seasonally monitored and adequately maintained.

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Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Bushland Structure

1H

Exotic Coral Trees (6) and Jacaranda (1) in Smoothey Park adjacent to gross pollutant trap.

Remove and plant with native indigenous canopy species. Species may include: Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine), Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple). When these establish in 5-8 years time, a midstorey and understorey will be established.

LT/O Weed species have been removed, natives have been planted and the site maintained.

1I

Couch grass invading the bushland of Smoothey Park.

Reclaim areas of bushland that are constantly being impacted upon by the invasion of lawn grass species and rehabilitate with low growing native indigenous plant species so visibility is not impaired by obstruction. Plant species may include: Dianella caerulea (Paroo Lily), Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush), Gonocarpus teucrioides (Raspwort), Commelina cyanea (Scurvy Weed), Acacia ulicifolia (Prickly Moses) and various native grass species. Form a moveable log border in appropriate areas and maintain.

C/O

New areas of lawn being reclaimed each year, moveable log borders are being used where appropriate and the area is adequately maintained.

Fire

1J

High fuel levels and lack of species diversity in the understorey.

Burn 20% in this area to reduce fuel levels and stimulate native plant regeneration with more than two years between each ecological management burn.

MT

Small areas are burnt and maintained - each more than two years apart.

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ZONE 2 Narrow strip of remnant Open Forest/Woodland dominated by Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint), and Closed Forest dominated by Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood) adjacent to Berrys Creek.

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Vegetation

Management 2A

Woody weeds colonising the banks of the creekline - competing with native plants for survival.

Removal of woody weeds (mature and immature) growing around existing native vegetation along the creekline. Maintain.

C/O

Native species are encouraged and the area is being maintained.

Locally rare species Endiandra sieberi (Corkwood) have been reduced to a few scattered specimens.

Collect seed of Endiandra sieberi (Corkwood) for the North Sydney Seed Bank and propagate the species when required. Plant in appropriate areas that are being regenerated to increase the stock size of this species and ensure its long-term viability in the area. Maintain.

MT

Endiandra sieberi (Corkwood) seed has been collected, propagated and planted into regenerating areas of Gore Cove bushland where appropriate and maintained.

Eroded banks of Berrys Creek.

Plant creekline species where appropriate and maintain. Species may include: Ceratopetalum apetalum (Coachwood), Tristaniopsis laurina (Water Gum) and Acmena smithii (Lilypily).

C/O

Creekline species have been planted where appropriate and maintained.

Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) and Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica) smothering canopy trees reducing sunlight penetration to the forest floor.

Remove vines from tree canopy along Berrys Creek.

C/O

Vine are removed from canopy adjacent to Berrys Creek and the area is adequately maintained.

2B

Removal of young woody weeds in the understorey/midstorey and the creation of burn piles adjacent to creekline.

Burn prepared piles and maintain the native plant regeneration that is expected to occur.

ST

Piles have been burnt and adequately maintained.

Feature

2C

Exposed adduct collecting natural runoff creating a constant pool of fresh water.

Complete fauna survey of the shallow cave.

ST

Fauna survey has been completed and all results have been given full consideration in the design and protection of the cave entrance.

19

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Erect bars to prevent entrance to the shallow cave and to protect it from damage, vandalism and for the safety of reserve users.

ST

Bars have been installed. Monitor and maintain the area on a regular basis.

Vegetation

Management 2D

Bushcare regeneration area continuing to expand and push back degraded area to the south. Native plants are being re-established and weed species are constantly being suppressed.

Continue to provide support and assistance to the Individual Bushcare Volunteer and contribute to maintaining the area.

C/O

Support and assistance continues to be provided.

Reserve Users

2E

Vague definition of the track in some areas along Gore Cove, especially where the track crosses Berrys Creek and enters Lane Cove territory in the north.

Redefine edges of the Gore Cove Track where appropriate and continue to suppress any informal tracks from being formed off the major route. Use of directional signage in areas where there are sharp turns along the track.

ST

Edges of the Gore Cove Track have been redefined where it is found to be appropriate and directional signage has been placed where it is most needed.

20

ZONE 3 Low Closed Forest dominated by Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush). Highly disturbed soil adjacent to mudflat of Gore Bay.

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Vegetation

Management 3A

Woody weeds colonising the banks of the creekline - competing with native species for survival.

Removal of woody weeds (mature and immature) growing around existing native vegetation along the creekline. Maintain the area.

C/O

Native species are encouraged and the area is being maintained.

3B

Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster glaucophyllus), Large Leaf Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) and Small Leaf Privet (Ligustrum sinense) and Asparagus fern (Protoasparagus aethiopicus) scattered throughout the low open forest.

Continue to maintain this area, especially the border between Zone 3 and Zone 4 where the vegetation is least degraded by weed invasion.

C/O

Area is adequately maintained.

Fire

3C

Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) are dying off due to the lack of fire and the limited ability to germinate in the degraded state of the ecosystem.

All woody weeds which are removed from the site will be stacked and later burnt to stimulate native seed stored in the understorey.

C/O

Piles are created, burnt and the area is adequately maintained.

Reserve Users

3D

Mangroves (Avicennia marina) successfully colonising the mudflat area. A new vegetation community is emerging.

Suggested route to protect the mangroves and the mudflat from human use in the future by extending the track (with elevated boardwalk) to incorporate this area as part of the bushland experience and maintain existing views of the Cove without vegetation damage.

LT

Boardwalk has been installed while mangroves are in immature state to minimise damage to foreshore vegetation.

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ZONE 4 Narrow strip of Open Forest/Woodland dominated Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt) and Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) with a midstorey of Banksia integrfolia (Coast Banksia) and understorey dominated by Lomandra longifolia (Mat Rush), Pteridium esculentum (Bracken Fern) and Smilax glyciphylla (Native Sarsparilla) adjacent to Gore Bay.

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Vegetation

Management

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

Biannual sweep through the areas of good/fair bush removing new weed growth especially along the perimeter regions - working from the good bush out into the degraded areas.

C/O

New weed growth has been suppressed and the are is adequately maintained.

4A

Kunzea ambigua (Tick Bush) species are dying off due to the lack of fire. Immature plants are sparse if at all present in some places.

One section (6m2 ) will be burnt to stimulate native seed stored in the soil. The site with the most severe amount of tree dieback will be given priority.

MT/O

One small section has been burnt and is adequately maintained.

Locally Rare

Species 4B

Locally rare species Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flower) have been reduced to a few scattered specimens.

Collect seed of Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flower) for the North Sydney Seed Bank and propagate the species when required. Plant in appropriate areas that are being regenerated to increase the stock size of this species and ensure its long-term viability in the area. Maintain. Experiment with fire on one 1x1 transect. Thin out natural leaf litter in another 1x1 transect. Monitor regeneration and decide on the best approach.

MT

ST

Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flower) seed has been collected, propagated and planted into regenerating areas of Berry Island bushland where appropriate and maintained. Re-colonisation of flannel flowers in the area.

Urban Runoff

4C

Drain No.5 from Milray Rd. causing severe erosion and gouging; adding moisture and nutrients to the bushland of Gore Cove.

Rehabilitate this area as a priority. The aim of the design and method of rehabilitation should reflect natural stream conditions and blend in with the surrounding ecosystem.

ST/O

Stormwater area rehabilitated and continually maintained to function effectively.

Reserve Users

Boat storage areas and access to these sites resulting in damage to harbour side vegetation

Find an alternative to chaining dinghies up to trees on the foreshore. Install alternative structure with instructive signage to inform dinghy users of the new

MT/O

Alternative structure installed and is being effectively utilised. Informal tracks have been

22

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

4D procedure. Provide formal track access where it is needed and maintain.

appropriately upgraded and maintained.

4E

Scattered trees with understorey of lawn and horticultural species. Rehabilitation of edges of the pathway constructed by the Water Board will require maintenance after completion

Inject with Bi-Active Roundup* (or similar with low surfactant) or remove all canopy species which are not indigenous to the area as rehabilitation practices are initiated in the area. Replace with native canopy where appropriate. Maintain the area following the path re-construction and plant scattered canopy species.

MT

LT

All non-indigenous species have been injected or removed. Area is planted with indigenous canopy species and adequately maintained.

4F

Residential properties contributing to the weed problem along the Gore Cove bushland area.

Initiate a Backyard Bushcare program in effort to educate and provide for people wishing to regenerate or rehabilitate their backyards to compliment the bushland composition and atmosphere of the Wollstonecraft area.

LT

Backyard Bushcare Program is initiated and effectively facilitated.

Native Garden

4G

Native garden created around the Shirley Rd entrance to the Gore Cove Track requires regular maintenance.

Native garden is to be weeded and maintained four times per year. Native species will be planted where required.

C/O

Native garden is maintained and native plants are utilised where it is found to be appropriate.

23

ZONE 5 Open Forest/Woodland remnant strip dividing Milray Avenue containing canopy species such as Eucalyptus piperita (Sydney Peppermint) and Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple).

Issue

Current Condition

Proposed Action

Priority

Performance Indicator

Weed Management

5A

Heavy weed infestation and ornamentals planted throughout

Regenerate, rehabilitate and reclaim as bushland to form a link to Smoothey Park and maintain genetic stock of remnant indigenous plant species. Beginning at the Smoothey Park end of the road and moving south in three stages. Involve and educate residents in planning for the future changes to this area. Accommodate local residents who wish to participate in the transformation.

LT

MT

Area is reclaimed, rehabilitated and regenerated and is adequately maintained. Any conflict has been resolved.

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

24

Management Strategy/Program

Priority

Responsibility

Creekline Management Strategy for Berrys Creek

LT

Bushland Management Team

Fire Management Strategy

MT

Bushland Management Team

Fauna Study

LT

Bushland Management Team

Feral Animal Control Program

MT

Bushland Management Team

Wildlife Corridor Strategy

MT

Bushland Management Team

Community Education Program

C/O

Bushland Management Team