http://www.greatsandy.com.au/ Fraser Island, Julie Hinchliffe, David Hinchliffe, Great Sandy Publications, sand driving, Lake McKenzie, Lake Wabby, dingo en-us Nucleus CMS v3.21 © Weblog http://backend.userland.com/rss http://www.greatsandy.com.au//nucleus/nucleus2.gif http://www.greatsandy.com.au/ http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=26 Environment http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=26 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:41:51 -0700 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=25
See The Mary River Turtle: yesterday, today, tomorrow...

Services / specialist skills include:
*Obtaining ISBNs and barcodes
*Editing early or final drafts - from quick edits through to lengthy rewrites ensuring correct grammar, technical accuracy and logical / appealing layout
*Writing front and back cover text, inside cover text, forwards and so on
*Doing all design - including book creation in Adobe InDesign, image manipulation in Adobe Photoshop (prints, slides, digital images etc), final PDFs
*Arranging printing - securing quotes and overseeing through to final print
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*Preparing alternative versions - PDFs for different purposes (eg web, email)
*Helping maximise website sales - text, images, Google AdWords / searchability]]> Environment http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=25 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:37:16 -0800 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=24 Explore Fraser Island covers far more Fraser Island destinations than any other guide book on the market. There's an incredible fifty all up, with two pages of info and pics devoted to each. This helps YOU to decide where you want to go...

NORTHERN FRASER ISLAND
Sandy Cape
Sandy Cape Lighthouse
Rooney Point
Ocean Lake
Orchid Beach
Waddy Point
Champagne Pools
Indian Head
Wathumba Creek

CENTRAL FRASER ISLAND
Central Fraser Island Map
Awinya Creek
Lake Gnarann
White Lake
Lake Bowarrady
Bowarrady Creek
Woralie Creek
Red Canyon
Wungul Sandblow
Dundubara
Cathedral Beach
Lake Allom
Lake Coomboo
Boomerang Lakes
Moon Point
Knifeblade Sandblow
The Pinnacles
Maheno Wreck
Eli Creek
Yidney Scrub
Lake Garawongera
Happy Valley
Rainbow Gorge
Valley of the Giants
Kingfisher Bay

SOUTHERN FRASER ISLAND
Southern Fraser Island Map
Stonetool Sandblow
Lake Wabby
Eurong
Lake McKenzie
Basin Lake - VIEW BOOK SAMPLE
Central Station
Pile Valley
Lake Jennings
Lake Birrabeen
Lake Benaroon
Lake Boomanjin
Dilli Village
Ungowa
Garry’s Anchorage
Snout Point
Southern Track
Hook Point

]]> Travel http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=24 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:08:00 -0800 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=23
Map reference: R4 (Hema), K4 (Sunmap)
Location: 2 km (walk) from Central Station, 4.3 km from Lake McKenzie
What’s there? Small perched lake, freshwater turtles, scenic walks
Nearest to: Central Station, Lake McKenzie, Pile Valley

Why go? Hidden in the forest, this small and picturesque freshwater lake offers a secluded resting point for walkers between Central Station and Lake McKenzie. Rarely described in brochures, Basin Lake often comes as a pleasant surprise to walkers not expecting to find such a pretty spot. Many choose to take a swim or quietly relax and observe the local wildlife. The lake is home to a number of Kreft’s river turtles; shy creatures rarely seen at the island’s busier lakes. But what is a peaceful setting one minute, can become a busy scene the next. Daily visits by bus loads of backpackers are a sign that the popularity of this small and pretty lake is on the rise. While the lake often appears a deep shade of blue, a closer look reveals the water is in fact crystal clear. Surprisingly deep, the depth of Basin Lake is said to exceed eight metres in parts. At times, the reflections cast by the surrounding forest transform the lake to a deep shade of green. Just like its much larger neighbour, Lake McKenzie, Basin Lake is what’s known as a ‘perched lake’. The lake is isolated from all other water bodies, relying on rainfall to counter the effects of evaporation. Local plants and animals depend on the natural processes that keep the water clean and mildly acidic. Any upsets to this delicate chemical balance could threaten the lake’s ecology and water quality.

Getting there Walking is the only way to get to Basin Lake. The shortest walk is from the adjacent bend in the road out of Lake McKenzie, located just west of Basin Lake. However, the start of this track is difficult to find since there are no signs or obvious parking provided. It is advisable to take the 2 km (one way), signposted walk from Central Station. This very scenic walk starts at the Wanggoolba Creek boardwalk, passing over the creek, in the opposite direction to Pile Valley. From Basin Lake, it’s another 4.3 km to Lake McKenzie. These walks form part of the Fraser Island Great Walk (see p 14 -16 for more information).

Facilities No facilities are provided at Basin Lake. The nearest facilities are located at Central Station.

What to look for Visitors often marvel at the smooth, straight white trunks of a series of planted flooded (or rose) gums located at the beginning of the walk from Central Station. Further along, it’s hard to miss the soft, bright green native foxtail ferns that make up the understorey. These unusual, sandloving plants are unique to this region. Turtles can often be spotted in the lake, venturing very near to shore when conditions are calm and quiet. Lake Allom and Lake Bowarrady also provide opportunities for viewing these creatures but elsewhere on the island, they tend to be much more elusive. Observe quietly from the shore if you’re hoping to spot some. Kreft’s river turtles are a type of freshwater, short-necked turtle, with webbed, clawed feet and the ability to fold their neck sideways if threatened by a predator. Researchers are currently trying to find out whether they are in fact a new species, different from those on the mainland.

What we think Proof that good things can come in small packages, Basin Lake has to be one of our favourite locations on Fraser Island. In calm weather, especially on sunny days, the water can look stunning. However, resist any temptation to feed or encourage the turtles and take all rubbish with you, including fruit skins and cigarette butts. If swimming, avoid wearing sunscreen or insect repellent as these will contaminate the water. Take extra care to ensure your visit doesn’t spoil this very special place.

]]> Travel http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=23 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 20:54:41 -0800 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=22 Explore Fraser Island.







]]> Travel http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=22 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 20:51:36 -0800 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=9
Explore hidden lakes, beaches, rainforest and more with Explore Fraser Island. Features great sections on driving and wildlife, plus maps to help you plan. Fully independent and packed with info, not ads. Available from all good bookstores and here (full colour, 176 pages, ISBN 0-9758190-0-3, distributors listed below).

Explore Fraser Island guide book
$23.95 (Save $6 off RRP). In stock.
For details and a sneak peak click here.
Plus $5.00 postage and handling.

Explore Fraser Island map pack
$32.90 (Save $6 off RRP). In stock.
This special deal includes an Explore Fraser Island guide book plus a detailed Hema map of Fraser Island.
Plus $5.00 postage and handling.

Fraser Island map
$8.95. In stock.
A detailed Hema map of Fraser Island.
Plus $5.00 postage and handling.

Explore Fraser Island CD Rom pack
$43.90 (Save $16 off RRP). In stock.
Go digital with an Explore Fraser Island guide book (hardcopy) plus a Hema CD Rom map of Fraser Island. Use with your GPS for fool-proof navigation. Plus $5.00 postage and handling.

The Mary River Turtle: yesterday, today, tomorrow...
$11.95. In stock.
Discover the secrets of the Mary River Turtle with this inspirational new booklet by Tiaro & District Landcare.
Plus $5.00 postage and handling.

Thank you for shopping with us. While most orders are processed much sooner, please allow at least 10 business days for orders sent within Australia.

Retailers note: Explore Fraser Island can be ordered through Woodslane, phone 02 9970 5111.

Privary statement: Great Sandy Publications assures you that your personal information will not be given or sold to any individual or organisation outside of Great Sandy Publications. We collect the names and contact/shipping details of customers for the purpose of shipping and as evidence of sales. We do not obtain or store customers' financial details nor do we use the information for the purpose of future promotion-related contact. You are entitled by law to access and/or request the correction or removal of information about you collected by us. You may access your information by writing to: The Privacy Officer, Great Sandy Publications, PO Box 94 Robe, South Australia 5276.]]> Order http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=9 Sun, 04 Sep 2005 15:50:00 -0700 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=21 Queensland Landcare Awards for Queensland Water and Land Carers to assist interested media.

Murray Darling Basin Commission Rivercare Award

Hinchinbrook Landcare Group
Just a few years ago, Macknade Creek - situated about ten kilometres from Hinchinbrook Island - was highly degraded. Armed with vision and enthusiasm, the Hinchinbrook Landcare Group has transformed this waterway into a thriving wetland. The group began to work its magic in 2001, its rapid success prompted by regular media coverage and diverse funding sources and partners. Guided by a strategic plan, the group set about reinstating the waterway, planting over 5000 trees and creating an island refuge for waterbirds. Macknade Creek is now home to a variety of aquatic creatures such as fish, turtles, birds and crocodiles. The group has received tremendous support from the broader community including Council, industry groups, service clubs, state government agencies, Green Corps, community groups, Indigenous Elders, scouts and local businesses. Over 150 volunteers have helped to plant trees, monitor water quality, maintain the site and more. The six hectares restored to date attract visitors and special bus groups.

Norman Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee
A spectacular example of people working together, the Norman Creek Demonstration Catchment Project has rapidly converted a severely degraded waterway into a restored natural creek system. The site is situated along Brisbane’s Norman Creek, in one of Queensland’s most urbanised catchments. Together with a large number of partners, including every level of government, the Norman Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee (N4C) has been working hard to reverse the decades of degradation. Pooling support and funding from diverse sources, the group has delivered a ‘natural channel design’ involving earthworks, erosion and sediment control, and the construction of pools, bolders and riffles. This is complemented by ongoing riparian restoration and in-stream habitat development, with the community helping to plant 50,000 native trees, shrubs and ground covers to date. For N4C, this strategic work will be the catalyst for extending this natural corridor upstream and downstream.

Aramac Landcare Group
The threat posed by woody weeds to catchments and waterways has been a source of concern for the members of Aramac Landcare. The weeds also threaten the unique lakes and artesian springs for which their area is noted. With the support of Desert Channels Queensland and the Desert Uplands Committee, the group formulated a plan of attack which first involved targeting the headwaters to slowly reduce the seed beds. It engaged spraying contractors (on foot, motorbike and horseback) and paid for chemicals, with landholders contributing the diesel. The many hurdles have included the wait for rain (to trigger sap to flow in Parkinsonia) and ensuring full landholder participation - some landholders had been encouraged to plant the trees fifty years ago as drought fodder. Overcoming these challenges, the group has made major inroads in the upper catchments, freeing up several mound springs and two lakes. Eleven landholders have participated so far and more have asked to come on board.

Australian Government Bushcare Nature Conservation Award

Greening Lockyer
Greening Lockyer is a catchment-wide community partnership program created by a $1 million community grant from Powerlink Queensland. The program is jointly delivered by the Esk, Laidley, and Gatton Shire Councils, WESROC and Powerlink Queensland. Through a range of projects, it aims to enhance the Lockyer Valley environment, minimise the impact of electricity infrastructure and create training and employment opportunities for local residents. Its environmental stewardship projects, for example, tackle four major issues for the catchment: salinity, forest restoration, remnant vegetation management, and wetland and riparian restoration. To date, almost 2,000 locals, including school children, have collectively contributed 5,880 volunteer hours and planted well over 37,000 trees. Other successes include the community nursery and an extra 215 plus jobs. Greening Lockyer has also used the original grant to leverage an additional $1.6 million in funding for further community projects.

Geoff and Jean Fearnside
‘Wallaroo’ is a 28,600 hectare beef grazing property in the Carnarvon Range of central Queensland. Run by Geoff Fearnside and daughter Jean, the property integrates natural systems with sustainable timber and cycad harvesting, and beef cattle production. Now 78 years young, Geoff treasures the property’s spectacular, natural beauty and continues to pursue his vision for educating Australia’s urban population about sustainable farming. Nature conservation forms an important part of his philosophy, which he implements through careful, strategic management of these areas. In one area alone, a 2000 hectare vegetation corridor has been set aside for conservation, linking up neighbouring vegetation and national parks. Wallaroo is home to an incredible range of wildlife - from whiptail wallabies and koalas, to a variety of native snakes, frogs, bats and bees. During the Bird Atlas count, the Fearnsides recorded 185 species of birds in just a year.

Desert Uplands Committee
Comprising of around 87% remnant vegetation, the Desert Uplands region is one of Australia’s ‘biodiversity hotspots’. However, only relatively small areas are preserved in national parks, and there are numerous springs and wetlands requiring special management. For the past ten years, the Desert Uplands Committee has tackled these and other issues in a strategic, supportive way. Supporting over 70 individual on-ground projects to date, the committee has inspired landholders to come on board, and built the region’s capacity in areas such as weed management, property mapping and understanding of landscape ecology. The committee works closely with the community, and facilitates a number of organisations to work together such as Desert Channels Queensland, Burdekin Dry Tropics Board, Environmental Protection Agency, Greening Australia, Local Governments, Belyando-Suttor Implementation Group, Cooper Creek Catchment Committee and Dalrymple Landcare Committee.

Alcan Landcare Indigenous Community Award

Kuku Thaypan Traditional Knowledge Recording Project
Cape York is the site of an ambitious project - the Kuku Thaypan Traditional Knowledge Recording Project. Started in 2001 by Kuku Thaypan Elders, Dr George Musgrave and Dr Tommy George, the project involves information technology, training, research, knowledge transfer and sustainable enterprise. Its centre-piece is a traditional knowledge website covering all aspects of Kuku Thaypan language and culture; from fire, land and water management, to medicines, uses for flora and fauna and how this all inter-relates. Now in their eighties, the two Elders managed to stay on country many years ago by hiding in mailbags. In May this year, they were awarded honorary doctorates in recognition of their traditional knowledge and contribution to maintaining country. Numerous groups have been attracted to the project’s value and national significance, while locally the database is improving management arrangements at Saxby and Low Lake, in Lakefield National Park. The pair has taken the concept to other northern communities, with promising results.

Northern Gulf Indigenous Savanna Group
Guided by a ten year “Caring for Country” vision, the Northern Gulf Indigenous Savanna Group is an inspiring example of people working together. Among other things, the group promotes cross-cultural awareness, partnerships, GPS and GIS training, and access to country. It is made up of nominated members from a number of traditional tribe and / or language groups. All of the language groups either have, or are producing, a development plan for their community which records aspirations for country and the activities needed to achieve this. For thousands of years, Aboriginal people in the region have run an open, transparent ‘bottom up’ governance structure - this group respects and allows for this. Since forming in 2002, the group has played a critical role in regional natural resource management planning in the Northern Gulf. As a representative Indigenous group to advise regional bodies, it provides a role model for natural resource management in Australia.

Australian Government Landcare Regional Award

Northern Gulf Resource Management Group and Mitchell River Watershed Management Group
With a population of 10,000 in an area well over twice the size of Tasmania, the Northern Gulf presents big challenges for regional landcare. Many people in this area are isolated in terms of their geography, work demands, and access to communication. In spite of this, the Northern Gulf Resource Management Group and Mitchell River Watershed Management Group have made amazing headways. Current membership includes 20 groups and 5 advisory organisations, supported by paid staff, volunteers and a number of partners. Governed by a unique “bottom up” structure, equitable voting system, and respect for Traditional knowledge, this regional body ensures an “all of community” approach to decision making. It engages the community in diverse and creative ways via its newsletter ‘the Gulf Croaker’, onsite visits, local media, shows, the internet and other initiatives. The partnership’s Regional Natural Resource Management Plan and Regional Investment Strategy target the causes of problems, with a number of high impact projects delivered throughout the region to date.

Desert Channels Queensland
Covering about a third of the state, Desert Channels Queensland must contend with extreme distances, communication difficulties and a remote community on a daily basis. However, this small, talented team has managed to reactivate a landcare movement which had all but died off. Thanks to a diverse Board of community representatives, and the help of supportive groups and partners, it has achieved action on over 200 properties to date. (Properties average 30,000 acres with some over several million acres in size). Actions reflect priorities set out in the group’s Natural Resource Management Plan and Regional Investment Strategy. Often on the road, the group is smart and innovative when it comes to supporting its community and promoting landcare. It has developed a knack for getting activities right the first time, since there’s no time for backtracking 1000 km to rework a project. Indigenous involvement is genuinely valued and the group applauds its region’s quiet achievers.

Westpac Landcare Education Award

Wartburg State School
Wartburg State School has embraced the landcare spirit, achieving rapid success with limited funds. Waste minimisation, recycling, community education, waterwise initiatives, and revegetation projects form part of the curriculum, and actively involve students, teachers and the wider community. This small school is situated on the coast between Bundaberg and Gladstone at Baffle Creek; a pristine waterway known for its prolific bird, animal and aquatic life. Since early 2002, students have helped to plant 340 trees in their school grounds, creating mini habitats and a bushtucker garden. The school’s challenges - which include weather extremes, limited funds and its reliance on rainwater, septic toilets and bore water - are used as opportunities to discuss issues and develop strategies. The school gets involved in programs like Waterwatch, Reef Guardian, Junior Landcare and National Tree Day, and teams up with local Indigenous and landcare groups, government agencies and community groups.

Kenmore State High School
As part of a ten year project to bring back butterflies, Kenmore State High School has planted close to 10,000 trees along its section of McKay Brook. Students get involved in practical activities like propagation and water testing as part of the curriculum. Supported by its P&C environment committee, the school has forged an impressive number of partnerships, including long-term ties with the Moggill Creek Catchment Group and Brisbane City Council. Huge Camphor Laurels and Chinese Elms have been carefully removed. Lantana removal has even been trialed instead of detention (although students were soon lining up to have a go at the weeds!). The school works according to a visionary revegetation plan, and has invested in plans for a viewing platform and other structures to protect restored areas. Another project has involved students adopting a rainforest site on a property near Kenilworth where they have removed weeds and helped the landholder to plant thousands of trees.

Healy State School Murrijunda
‘Growing the Environmentalists of the Future’ is an inspiring program greening up the grounds of Healy State School Murrijunda. The school is situated in Mount Isa, with Indigenous students making up over half of the school community. Beginning as a lunchtime initiative, the school’s Environmental Club provides fun, hands-on opportunities for children to experience achievement. Curriculum experiences, and community access and expertise form part of the program’s focus. As well as planting trees, students run a worm farm and collect and propagate seed; over 1,500 seeds have been propagated in the past year or so. In line with the school’s waterwise practices, young trees are irrigated using slow release drippers and excess leaves and seeds used for mulch. Bowerbirds have returned to nest, weeds are regularly controlled, and there is now shade for sporting carnivals and outdoors lessons. Australian rugby league hero Mal Meninga evoked plenty of smiles when he joined the School Tree Planting Day last year.

Australian Government Coastcare Community Award

Friends of Federation Walk
Based on the Gold Coast, the Friends of Federation Walk community group is transforming The Spit into the beautiful and biodiverse ‘Federation Walk Coastal Reserve’. Together with the Main Beach Progress Association, its members played a key role in ensuring the area was retained as public open space. To date, they have planted over 35,000 trees, hauled away large amounts of weeds and rubbish, and collaborated on a Draft Management Plan, vegetation study and 4 km pathway. Although encouraged by support from local schools, businesses, Council and others, the group has suffered knock backs from drought and fires. Faced with severe water restrictions, it needed something in addition to mulch, water crystals, and tree guards to keep seedlings alive in the harsh conditions. The group has solved the problem by installing an irrigation system which recycles effluent water from a nearby effluent discharge pipeline. Designed to be portable, the system can be dug up and transported to another site.

Wangetti Recovery Group
Situated along the coast between Cairns and Port Douglas in a World Hertitage Listed area, the Wangetti Recreation Reserve is now enjoying the support of the Wangetti Recovery Group. Until recently, impacts such as illegal four wheel driving and camping, weeds, and rubbish dumping were degrading the beach and swales, threatening endangered ecosystems. Although formed just two and a half years ago, the group has already made an obvious impact on the ecological recovery of the area. For starters, it has removed the illegal four wheel drive access and replanted areas using locally-sourced seedlings. The group’s actions are guided by its very comprehensive recovery plan, which incorporates the community, land managers, and statutory management agencies. Diverse representation - spanning the local community, Traditional Owners, recreational users, conservation organisations, and local and state government - help to explain the group’s success.

Carpentaria Ghost Net Program
The ‘Carpentaria Ghost Net Program - Saltwater People Working Together’ is a relatively new project involving eleven Indigenous community groups. Traditional owners in Arnhem Land recall a total absence of nets on their beaches 20 years ago. In a 2003 survey, 420 nets were collected from just 23 km of beach -10% of them larger than 10 square metres. Managed by a national steering committee with diverse government and non-government representation, this initiative was prompted by a $2 million National Heritage Trust Grant to help communities in the Gulf remove and manage ghost nets and marine debris. Each community is developing its own, tailored workplan detailing actions to remove ghost nets and record information. Many are already working closely with other concerned communities in the Gulf. The information they gather will allow State and Commonwealth agencies to form policies to reduce the source of pollution (which data suggests is mostly of Asian origin).

Cooloola Coastcare Association
The Cooloola Coast is home to natural beauty of world renown - from the towering coloured sands of Rainbow Beach, to the globally significant wetlands of Tin Can Bay. Four years ago, the Rainbow Beach and Tin Can Bay Coastcare Groups amalgamated to become Cooloola Coastcare Association Inc. This new body wasted no time developing a comprehensive Strategic Plan. Delivered in the midst of a population explosion, the associated program reflects the scope of coastal issues and community interests. Activities range from weed control and restoration to Pandanus Palm mapping and recovery, bird and wildflower walks, migratory wader bird monitoring, seagrass monitoring and wallum research. The group has been praised through numerous local and regional awards, and is recognised for its noticeable impact on coastal weeds. Partnerships with the community have been vital to this success and have involved the Rainbow Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Cooloola Shire Council, schools, local businesses and others.

Landcare Australia Local Government Landcare Community Partnerships Award

Winton Shire Council
Covering over 53,000 square kilometres and with a population of only 1,600, Winton Shire has some very real and extreme environmental challenges. Winton Shire Council faces these challenges with tenacity and genuine support for its local community. For example, it lends financial and reporting support to the shire’s 16 catchment and landcare groups ($600,545 since 2002). This is landcare on a big scale. One group, for instance, is made up of three properties which together cover over two million acres of country. Reporting support provided by the Rural Lands Officer enables the groups to do what they do best - tackle the on-ground challenges - plus share information, map areas worked on, and collaborate with other stakeholders. Woody weeds are the biggest challenge. In addition to employing specialist staff, the Shire proactively deals with pest species via initiatives such as its Rural Lands Advisory Committee, and $500 per / year landholder incentive scheme to treat woody weeds.

Johnstone Shire Council
With around half of the Wet Tropics World Heritage area situated within its shire, Johnstone Shire Council has been proactively practicing the landcare ethic since 1991. Today, the council delivers a full and diverse program of environmental initiatives, well and truly surpassing its historical agenda of ‘roads, rates and rubbish’. To achieve this, it collaborates with Traditional Owners, government agencies, local industries, community groups, schools and others. The operational aspects are supported by well-planned programs such as the Council Revegetation Unit, Storm Water Stencilling Program, Shire planning scheme and Waste Management Program. Johnstone Shire promotes landcare through a range of financial and other incentives - for instance by maintaining a trailor-mounted weed spray unit which is available to landholders. Other initiatives include value adding to this work by monitoring activities placing pressure on the environment, supplying data to higher level authorities and reporting back to its community.

Rural Press Landcare Primary Producer Award

Geoff and Jean Fearnside
Geoff Fearnside and daughter Jean have been leaders of the landcare movement in their district for many years. The family’s 28,600 hectare property ‘Wallaroo’, situated 72 km north of Injune, integrates natural systems with sustainable timber and cycad harvesting, and beef cattle production. The property is managed according to a 100-page Property Management Plan, covering everything from business to Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. Measures include monitoring and adaptive management, rotational grazing and the provision of 83 dams supported by two bores and 45 km of pipeline as an alternative to the 18 km of Dawson River frontage. Vegetation networks reduce the effects of wind and temperature extremes; in one area alone, a 2000 hectare corridor has been set aside for conservation, linking up neighbouring vegetation and national parks. The family has an inspiring vision for the future, which includes an on-farm Education Centre presently under construction.

Shane Gittins
Dairy farmer Shane Gittins runs a large family farm at Kilcoy and a new farm on the Condamine River near Clifton. He was instrumental in the formation of the Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Group and has held various positions with this and other groups at local, regional, state and national levels. In his different capacities over the past 30 years and more, Shane has helped to drive some of Australia’s most innovative sustainable farming initiatives. His visionary approach shines through on his own farms, where measures to improve conditions include zero-till, mulching, riparian fencing off, cell grazing, and re-using dairy effluent as an on-farm fertiliser, plus the creation of tree-lined laneways, contour banks and multiple off-stream watering points. Cropping and pasture areas are fenced off based on soil tests and land capability. Backed by holistic farm plans, Shane’s conservation and recycling initiatives have helped to reduce operational costs and mustering times, whilst improving herd health and biodiversity.

Shane Templeton
For three generations, Shane Templeton and his family have grown ginger in the Eumundi area. Through its commitment to best management practice, the family strives to protect waterways and maximise biodiversity, whilst maintaining high productivity and employment levels. The Templetons are known for their open-mindedness and willingness to try new techniques. Among other things, this has ensured significant water savings and innovative approaches - for example, the family is currently involved in a trial of compost tea organic fertiliser. Big supporters of landcare and close collaborators with catchment, industry and university groups, the family shows the way forward for farming in this densely settled area. Guided by a farm plan, initiatives include windbreaks, minimum till, silt traps, water monitoring, efficient irrigation, soil enhancement, safe disposal of runoff, and natural methods of washing ginger. Riparian zones have been revegetated, weeds controlled, wetlands protected for waterbirds, and there are planned areas for wildlife.

Alcoa Landcare Community Group Award

Bulimba Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee
A leading community group has turned the tables on traditional catchment management through an innovative new program. Bulimba Creek Catchment Coordinating Committee (B4C) looks after one of the largest creek catchments in the Brisbane area. Since its inception, B4C has helped to create an incredible 362 hectares of habitat and protect 426 hectares of bush. The group’s highly strategic approach incorporates a local environment-based registered charity, business arm to deliver professional environmental services (with profits going back into the environment fund), community nursery, and environmental advocacy and networking sector. Using this formula, the group has delivered over $3.5 million in environmental outputs in the past two years with just $400,000 of donations and self-generated funds. Its model for achieving financial security, which includes but transcends the ‘planting trees in the ground’ concept, has potential for other urban or rural areas.

Towerhill & Torrens Creek Catchment Landcare Group
With more than 700,000 hectares to look after plus the challenges of a drought, the Towerhill & Torrens Creek Catchment Landcare Group certainly has its work cut out for itself. However, this inspiring group boasts over 100 individual members comprising 40 properties, providing strength in numbers. One of its points of difference is its young core which has, in turn, prompted the group to embrace new technologies and management techniques. The group has always been on the ‘front foot’ when it comes to property planning. Members work strategically and collaboratively (e.g along waterways) on a suite of on-ground projects; often for the greater good, rather than for individual production benefits. Many also provide a voice for landcare in their different capacities. The effects of this work, particularly weed management, are felt not only locally, but in the lower regions of the Lake Eyre Basin.

Emerald Neighbourhood Catchment Group
Salinity, erosion and weeds are some of the big issues being strategically tackled by the Emerald Neighbourhood Catchment Group. With community awareness and participation at its heart, the group is making impressive environmental headways. All landholders in the Emerald district are now aware of the key issues and the neighbourhood catchment community has embraced the planning processes at every level. At the property level, for instance, 90% of individual landholders are undertaking property management planning across more than 62,000 hectares of land. To encourage involvement, the group has created a comfortable and trusting environment in which landholders can share project results with their neighhours. Those involved come from diverse industries such as irrigated horticulture, cotton and grains; dryland grain and grazing; and mining. Other collaborators include local government, State agencies, industry groups, and the Central Highland Regional Resource Use Planning Cooperative.

Gympie & District Landcare
Through an enormous range of activities and initiatives, Gympie & District Landcare reaches every sector of its local community. Activities range from tree plantings and information tents, through to awards, expos and the 2003 Queensland Landcare Conference. This energetic group delivers and tracks its activities in a highly professional way, and forges excellent relationships with all levels of government. Its numerous collaborators range from sporting associations and service clubs to landholders, businesses and schools. The group adopted a strategic approach to planning, action and education ten years ago, and has been guided by the award-winning Mary River and Tributaries Rehabilitation Plan and other strategies. Its ‘triple bottom line’ strategy achieves environmental, social and economic outcomes through a range of training and work experience programs, while regular on-ground works help to improve degraded watercourses and important riparian areas.

National Landcare Program Individual Landcarer Award

Alby Wooler
Known as ‘Mr Landcare’ by the Capricorn Coast community, Alby Wooler is an inspiration to young and old. Even as a farmer, Alby has always been a trail blazer. Thirty years ago, he established a rare fruits orchard at his Barmaryee property. Today, thanks to Alby’s leadership, the region boasts a thriving rare fruit industry. The 74 year old voluntarily applies the same enthusiasm and hard work to his landcare work. Tackling issues such as salinity, drought and water quality, Alby comes up with innovative, sustainable ways of keeping farmers on the land. Each week, he educates about 150 students as part of a Junior Landcare program he started over a decade ago. He is also founder and President of the Capricorn Coast Landcare Group. His involvement in these and countless other groups, initiatives and activities is helping to ensure a brighter future for Livingstone Shire and beyond.

Laurie Dunne
Laurie Dunne has that special ability to relate to and motivate other farmers. Well known for his long-term involvement in the Subtropical Dairy Program, the Beaudesert dairy farmer shows inspiring leadership and enthusiasm for the sustainability of the dairy industry - both economically and environmentally. Laurie was instrumental to the success of the Dairying Better N Better for Tomorrow pilot; a program soon after rolled out across a further 11 dairy farmer groups. His talent as an ambassador of sustainable dairy farming was further highlighted by his selection to represent Dairy Australia at the Dairy World Expo in Sabah, held earlier this year. Laurie translates his expertise across other agricultural industries, and plays leading roles in a large number of programs, ranging from the Buffalo Fly Trap Project (to minimise on-farm chemical use) to the national Dairying for Tomorrow initiative.]]> Environment http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=21 Thu, 18 Aug 2005 19:57:48 -0700 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=20 Click here for more details on this work.















]]> Environment http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=20 Thu, 18 Aug 2005 19:23:32 -0700 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=19 environment page for further details of our environment writing services.

1. TREES SHOULD COVER OVER A THIRD
2. CAN SEAGRASS BE REVIVED?
3. FARMERS OPEN TO NEW IDEAS
4. 4,000,000 HECTARES OF HABITAT MAPPED
5. WHAT IS THE BARE MINIMUM FOR NOOSA'S KOALAS?
6. MORE REVEG NEEDED TO SHAKE OFF SALT

1. TREES SHOULD COVER OVER A THIRD
Native vegetation may need to cover at least a third of rural landscapes if its fauna are to have a future. Based on extensive surveys carried out in northern Victoria, scientists Andrew Bennett and Jim Radford say an average of 30-35% native vegetation cover is likely to maintain resilient populations of most species of birds and mammals in the region. The team observed marked changes in the richness of woodland birds at around 10% tree cover, providing strong evidence for a threshold response in species richness. When the level of tree cover dropped below 10%, species richness was found to go into rapid decline. They point out that the threshold represents the stage at which the woodland bird community ‘crashes’; the end-point of the extinction process for many species. Also, many species begin to decline at much higher levels of vegetation cover warranting management goals well above the 10% threshold value. This project is supported by the Native Vegetation R&D Program. MORE INFORMATION: For further information on this and other native vegetation projects visit www.lwa.gov.au/nativevegetation. (Source: NATIVE VEGETATION UPDATE, AUTUMN 2005/1)

2. CAN SEAGRASS BE REVIVED?
Many seafloors in Australia and worldwide have lost hundreds - even thousands - of hectares of seagrass habitat. Since seagrasses consolidate and bind sediment, their loss destabilises the seafloor leading to sediment erosion and usually high turbidity. This can mean poorer overall water quality and further seagrass loss. As in the United States and Europe, Australia's seagrass restoration efforts to date have met with limited success. One relatively new area of focus in Australia, however, involves the use of seagrass seeds and seedlings (planting as opposed to transplantation). Researchers are beginning to explore and test methods of recruitment facilitation and fast-tracking succession by encouraging the growth of colonising species, then in-planting with mature phase species collected as seedlings or cultured seedlings. A South Australian team has started collecting the fruits of the mature phase species Posidonia spp., germinating the seeds and culturing the subsequent seedlings for future planting into areas of seagrass loss. The team hopes to develop cost-effective tools for fighting large-scale seagrass loss. THE FULL REPORT: 'Going with the Flow: Facilitating Seagrass Rehabilitation' features in the latest edition of Ecological Management and Restoration (V5N3). (Source: ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION NEWS, 2005-1)

3. FARMERS OPEN TO NEW IDEAS
A conservation costing project has revealed a willingness amongst participating landholders to consider new management options for their farms. The researchers are developing individually-tailored options that take account of each property's financial situation, agricultural and biodiversity potential. Supported by the Native Vegetation R&D Program, Agribusiness Analyst Jim Moll and colleagues from the Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment are drawing on farm business and financial details gathered confidentially from eight participating properties in the Violet Town and Broadford regions. These are being studied alongside mapping, agronomic and environmental information and the options discussed openly with each farmer. The team was surprised to find that in some cases, the least costly options might deliver the most effective biodiversity outcomes. MORE INFORMATION: The article 'Crunching the costs and contributions of biodiversity on farms' appears in the third issue of Thinking Bush magazine. For a free copy, download from www.lwa.gov.au/products.asp, contact CanPrint on 1800 776 616 or email lwa@canprint.com.au. (Source: NATIVE VEGETATION UPDATE, WINTER 2004/1)

4. 4,000,000 HECTARES OF HABITAT MAPPED
Ecology and GIS-based koala habitat mapping carried out as part of the national ‘Koala Habitat Atlas’ project now covers approximately four million hectares. This innovative project of the Australian Koala Foundation has been underway for more than a decade. To date, data have been collected from over 51,400 trees from 1,109 field plot sites in project areas from Southeast Queensland, through much of eastern and central New South Wales, to Ballarat Shire and the Strzelecki Ranges region in Victoria. As well as providing information on habitat loss, disturbance and degradation, the methodology allows for the identification and prioritisation of areas for conservation and restoration efforts based on habitat quality, patch size and connectivity, ecological landscapes and threatening processes. It also allows local-scale identification of koala tree species and habitat preferences. The Koala Habitat Atlas received a prestigious Computerworld Smithsonian Institute Award for innovative use of technology in Washington, DC in 1998 and is recommended as a basis for the accurate identification and mapping of koala habitat within both the draft New South Wales Recovery Plan for the Koala and the recently-released Victorian Koala Management Strategy. The AKF has contributed in excess of $4 million towards this project, with help in the field by volunteers from around the world. All funding has been raised without government assistance. For further details visit www.savethekoala.com/refkha.html. (Source: KOALA SCIENCE NEWS - ISSUE 3, 2004)

5. WHAT IS THE BARE MINIMUM FOR NOOSA'S KOALAS?
Scientists have uncovered evidence of critical habitat thresholds for koala populations living in southeast Queensland's Noosa Shire. The landmark study looks at the conservation needs of a species that is declining at a landscape scale, targeting two key questions - How much habitat is enough? and How should protected habitat areas be arranged spatially? Koala evidence surveys and habitat surveys were carried out at 350 sites across the shire. After taking tree species preferences into account, the team found that koalas are more likely to persist in landscapes comprising greater than 50% high quality habitat configured in large patches (100 hectares or larger), and with a low density of sealed roads. Most landscapes in the region - in their present form - may therefore fall a long way short of providing the minimum needed to sustain koalas into the future. The researchers are concerned that the region's koala and other fauna populations will continue to decline unless regional strategies are put in place to conserve and restore sufficient habitat. This research represents a collaboration of scientists from the University of Queensland, Australian Koala Foundation and New South Wales Department of Environment and Conservation. The paper 'Conserving Southeast Queensland Koalas: How much habitat is enough?' can be accessed at www.savethekoala.com/vulnerable.html. (Source: KOALA SCIENCE NEWS - ISSUE 2, 2004)

6. MORE REVEG NEEDED TO SHAKE OFF SALT
Revegetation efforts across Australia may need significant 'scaling up' if landscapes are to enjoy meaningful habitat benefits in the future. At least this was the finding of a recent assessment of Greening Australia's two-year 'Saltshaker vegetation enhancement project' in the Booroowa Catchment of central New South Wales. Although an important milestone in terms of nudging the catchment closer to its 10% conservation land target, the predicted biodiversity gains of the project to date were relatively small in terms of what remains to be done if the landscape is to recover. CSIRO's David Freudenberger and team looked at projections of remnant connectivity and habitat size of the vegetation once mature. One criterion for success was the degree to which revegetation or fencing achieved reintegrated habitats of at least 10 ha in size - the minimum patch size needed for many woodland birds. While the Saltshaker project helped to protect 1.6% of the catchment's total remnant woody vegetation (including 13 woodland remnants greater than 10 ha in size), the average size of each revegetated patch was 4.2 ha - well below the critical threshold. These small patches were often linear in shape since many were situated along watercourses and shelter belts. Seventeen of them, however, could function as faunal 'stepping stones' and the overall vegetation cover in the catchment was increased by about 0.3% to 8.3%. THE FULL REPORT: 'Predicting the biodiversity benefits of the Saltshaker Project, Boorowa, NSW' features in the latest edition of Ecological Management and Restoration (V5N1). Subscribe at www.blackwellpublishing.com/journals/emr/ (Quote code: EMR News 2004-1). (Source: ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION NEWS, 2004-1)
]]> What's New http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=19 Fri, 12 Aug 2005 00:28:26 -0700 http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=18
In the market for Rainforest

Beauty, biodiversity and business... Maleny offers buyers the perfect blend.

By Julie Hinchliffe

Like many secret love affairs, it begins with weekend visits; innocent walks along leafy streets, scenic drives down quiet country roads, glimpses into other people's lives and the familiar declaration - there it is! The 'perfect' little farm nestled in amongst the rainforest… it's no wonder more city folk are moving to Maleny.

The good news is that rainforest properties are no longer incredibly rare. In recent years, local landcarers have been hard at work, investing a lot of time, effort and money breathing new life into what had become an 'ecologically tired' landscape and the results are impressive.

These days, few visitors can pass through Maleny without noticing the transformation. There is a myriad of natural delights; from soothing views over weed-free forests to lushly vegetated gullies, cared for creeks and prized pockets of rainforest.

But beauty isn't the only inducement. Many properties feature planted stands of native timber that have been carefully - even lovingly - tended to over the years. When harvested, experts say a well-chosen timber could bring a net return of $300 000 per hectare.

"Maleny is one of the premium tree-growing districts in Southeast Queensland due to its fertile soils and high rainfall," says Laurie Capill, a local advisor with Private Forestry Southern Queensland.

"A forest may be worth from half to double this ($300 000p/hr), depending on the productive capability of the land, the species grown, the quality of the forest management, the efficiency of the processing and quality of marketing."

One of the good aspects of forest growing, says Mr Capill, is the flexibility. "You can often fit management activities around other life activities. Trees aren't as demanding as livestock or horticultural crops!"

Anyone interested in local real estate will have noticed the small but growing number of forest investment properties being released onto the market. Could this be the start of a new 'green' era for local real estate?

"One owner of a former dairy farm at Mount Mee has been subdividing his property for lifestyle properties," says Mr Capill.

"He noticed that lots with stands of forest returned significantly higher prices, to such an extent that he has been actively planting forests on the clear lots in order to increase their worth."

Local landholder, Craig Hosmer says he, too, knows a number of dairy farmers who are now undertaking farm forestry plots. "And some that are going into eco-tourism with cabins and rainforest walks," he said.

Of course, not everyone with planted forest will want to harvest the timber. According to Mr Capill, Some growers come to appreciate the beauty and lifestyle values that the trees provide, such as privacy, shade and shelter and habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Whatever their decision, he says, properties with forest cover are often much less trouble than cleared land. "Cleared land can be very prone to weed invasion, especially if the owner is disinclined to manage livestock. This saving in time management is valuable, especially for busy people."

The dedication of Maleny landcarers and effort put into weed removal was highlighted in a recent article featured in The Range News.

"Properties with the biggest weed infestations are often those cleared of their original rainforest," says Kelvin Davies, Executive Officer of Rainforest Rescue. "Buyers should be prepared to pay more for properties that have been managed for weeds and where efforts have been made to restore some of area's natural, ecological values."

"Weed seedlings, for example, may have been painstakingly removed over a long period of time to encourage natural regeneration. Or where original rainforest is missing, trees may have been planted - hundreds, even thousands."

Responsible farm forestry also claims to enhance a property's natural values. Codes of practice are currently being developed to ensure these forests are managed in an ecologically sustainable way. For buyers considering purchasing such a property, chances are a good deal of planning and market research will have already been done thanks to the influence and support of the local landcare and farm forestry networks.

"It typically costs around $5000 per hectare to establish plantations and do the essential maintenance for the first couple of years," says Laurie Capill. "This includes some allowance for your own labour."

Aside from the relatively untapped potential for conservation and nature-based enterprise, clearly there is something else luring buyers to Maleny.

In her book about inspiring people in rural Australia, Ordinary People Extraordinary Lives, author Margaret Carroll describes the Maleny community as 'an empowered mob'.

"What a special area Maleny is for its beautiful setting, its community spirit, and its people and their care for the natural environment," she says.

Boasting an incredible seventeen co-operatives (the second largest number in the world), she argues that Maleny's people value self-reliance, support local initiatives and strive for a sustainable future, rather than rely on - or blame the lack of - new outside businesses and government initiatives to stimulate growth.

Barung Landcare is just one of these co-operatives. For a number of years, its members have been actively promoting farm forestry and other conservation-based ventures. The Maleny Wood Expo, 'From Chainsaw to Fine Furniture', is a great example of a highly successful event that features innovative products grown and crafted by local people.

"Marketing timber through a co-op is a very useful approach to ensure growers get the best possible prices for their wood," says Laurie Capill.

According to Mr Capill, the nearest forestry cooperative serving the Maleny District is Cooloola Forest Growers at Gympie. "Forest owners should also consider joining a farm forestry support group," he says. "There are a number of these around Southeast Queensland, including Barung Landcare's Farm Forestry Sub-committee."

"Private Forestry Southern Queensland, a regional industry development organisation based in Maleny, has a very informative website (www.pfsq.org) and a free magazine."

When asked how buyers and real estate agents might ascertain the value of a forest, Mr Capill recommends employing a qualified and experienced forester to advise on its current value.

"The value depends not only on the age of the forest, but also on the type of forest and its management condition," he says.

According to a local real estate agent, those clients who have sought such advice have found it very useful.

"I personally believe that wood will become recognised as 'the' environmentally friendly material of the 21st Century," says Mr Capill. "There is a growing appreciation of the intrinsic and aesthetic qualities of our range of native timbers, and recognition of timber being one of the most environmentally sound building materials."

"Escalating energy costs are pricing conventional building materials such as bricks, steel and concrete out of the market. One can expect that timber prices in thirty years time will be worth significantly more than today."

And if future profit isn't your motivation, then perhaps the environment is. For many Maleny landholders, the idea that a beautiful, more natural landscape will be around for future generations is investment enough. In the meantime, they enjoy the birds, the beauty of their trees and reflect on the value of their hard work.

"Right now, there is a feeling of optimism as more like-minded people choose to support biodiversity on their Maleny properties," says Kelvin Davies from Rainforest Rescue.

"In terms of real estate, I think the true value of conservation properties will very soon be realised."]]> Environment http://www.greatsandy.com.au/index.php?itemid=18 Fri, 12 Aug 2005 00:25:39 -0700