Greater Gliders in the spotlight - Queensland Science Network
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SPRING/SUMMER2018
2013ISSUE
No.209
224
Above: Litoria peronii
photo by Robert Ashdown
Greater Gliders in the spotlight
What's inside
Eco Expo.........................................2
President’s Report...........................3
Projects Report................................4
Spiders on the move........................6
Grant success..................................7
Holly Bryant Award..........................8
Around the Tracks...........................9
Brush-tailed rock wallaby..............12
Fraser Island photo competition.....12
55 years of Wildlife Australia.........13
Wildlife Land Fund news...............14
ACEN............................................14
WPSQ in action.............................15
The first time the QGN team found a greater glider inside one of the project nest boxes. A fantastic result for the project.
Gliders of all species have long been high on Wildlife Queensland’s agenda. Even prior to the
establishment of the Queensland Glider Network in 2006, WPSQ branches were spotlighting
for gliders as part of their regular activities. Particularly noteworthy have been the efforts of our
Cassowary Coast and Townsville Branches in saving the endangered mahogany glider.
To continue this significant history, the Queensland Glider Network has focussed in recent times on
another nationally threatened glider species - the greater glider. Through its Greater Idea Appeal of 2016,
Wildlife Queensland raised the funds required to implement a project aiming to better understand this
species’ tendency to occupy nest boxes. The project saw a total of 44 rear-entry greater glider nest boxes
installed across three bushland conservation reserves in the wider Brisbane region.
Developed to test occupancy preferences based on measureable installation parameters including
tree species, bark type, nest box height and orientation, the program involved a monitoring regime
Suite 1, Level 1, 30 Gladstone Road, to determine timeframes for occupation. The results of the project will assist decision-makers in
Highgate Hill QLD 4101 Australia understanding how best to implement a nest box project in future recovery initiatives for greater gliders.
Phone +61 7 3844 0129 It would be very easy for greater gliders to vanish into extinction like a ghost into the night. At the
Email wpsq@wildlife.org.au
best of times they are rarely seen, and for a large beautiful animal, they are sadly little-known, a problem
www.wildlife.org.au
faced by many Australian native animals. This project has played a small role in changing this, involving
ISSN 1835-7019 (print) over 375 hours of volunteer assistance and providing informative
ISSN 1835-7105 (digital)
...continued on page 2
...continued from page 1
presentations to various community groups about the species and
the project itself.
During time spent working on the project, the Queensland
Glider Network has learnt of other bushland reserves that greater
gliders inhabit and the team has enjoyed learning more about this
nocturnal species’ habits through seven spotlight surveys so far.
More importantly, we have succeeded in seeing greater gliders
inhabiting our nest boxes.
To date, three boxes have been found with greater gliders resting
inside, a really positive result for the team. Interestingly, all three
boxes where this occupation occurred were at the same one of the
three project sites; this particular site exhibits the densest population
of greater gliders of the three.
So what have we learnt so far? Greater gliders will use nest
boxes, box height appears to be important (with a preference for
higher rather than lower), and all three occupied nest boxes were
installed on the eastern side of the tree. Further, all three trees
have had smooth bark at the height of the box. While perhaps not
scientifically significant in itself, this information may, over time,
allow us to gain enough occupancy data to confidently back up our
results.
We are certainly interested to find out why only one of the three
project sites has recorded greater gliders occupancy of the boxes. Is
this due to population pressure for hollow resources or another less
obvious factor? As the project continues, it is hoped that the data
collected will unveil more hidden information about this species and Greater Glider normal form © Jasmine Zeleny
its use of this artificial denning resource.
Eco Expo
Wildlife Queensland participated in the Eco Expo held at the RNA over 3 days in September where the digital version of the Wildlife Australia
magazine was highlighted and a small income was made through the sale of tote bags and trolley bags to replace those plastic bags. The
Expo encouraged us to take at least one eco step toward being more sustainable. One step can make a significant difference.
Volunteers at our stylish display
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2018 Issue 224
President’s Report
There are two matters I wish to The second item I wanted to refer to is sad in a very different sense. It
highlight in this report. They are both is sad in the sense of deep disappointment and dismay. And it has a
sad in very different ways. connection with the Thorsborne Trail. It is one of three locations that
The first is a massive loss to Wildlife the Palaszczuk Government has called for expressions of interest for
Queensland and to the broader development by private enterprise. To quote the words of Minister Enoch
conservation community. Margaret and Minister Jones: We want proposals from industry about how they
Thorsborne AO, our patron and long- could develop and operate accommodation, guided tours and other
term member, died on the evening complementary offerings on three world class trails – Thorsborne Trail,
of Tuesday 16 October. Margaret’s exploits and achievements are well Cooloola Great Walk and Whitsunday Island Trail. Additionally, we would
documented on a number of websites, and I invite people to read that expect the EOIs to include appropriate infrastructure that broadens the
information. range of exciting and unique experiences that Queensland tourism and our
parks offer.
My association with Margaret
and her husband Arthur dates The tender process on the Department of Housing and Public Works’
back to the late 1960s when website makes the following statement:
they lived on the Gold Coast. The State is seeking a collaborative arrangement with the industry through
They were early members of this opportunity and is therefore prepared to provide the Successful
Wildlife Queensland and were Proponent(s):
actively involved in campaigns • State-owned national park land for private eco-accommodation
to protect rainforests and the development;
Great Barrier Reef. They also
• exclusive ground leases for a term of up to 30 years plus one up to 30
championed the plight of one
year option to operate the private eco-accommodation;
bird species that nested on the
Brook Islands, just to the north • assistance during the approvals process;
of Hinchinbrook Island, and flew • a coordinated “one government” approach to comply with other
to mainland rainforest areas government requirements; and
to feed. The Torresian imperial • a contribution of up to $5 million for eco-accommodation built along
pigeon, or Torres Strait pigeon as the Whitsunday Island Trail.
it was called then, is a relatively
In other words, the government is in the process of selling off our national
large white bird with black flight
parks to the highest bidder. It is now readily apparent why this government
and tail feathers. But it was
refused to remove the Newman Government amendment to the Nature
being heavily hunted, and the
Conservation Act that allowed the development of tourist accommodation
Thorsbornes were concerned for
on national parks to override the cardinal principle for the management of
its survival in the region.
national parks.
As a result, they instigated a
Margaret Thorsborne the campaigner Nowhere in the government documents is there a reference to the primary
program of annual counts as
© Liz Gallie purpose for establishing national parks. There is, however, a bizarre (and
far back as 1965 when they
factually incorrect) statement to say that “Queensland has over 1,300
holidayed in the region. This continued after they moved to a home outside
national parks, marine parks, state forests and other protected areas”. State
Cardwell in 1972. They also visited the Brook Islands regularly to deter
forests are not protected areas as defined by the Nature Conservation Act,
hunters and warn others of the consequences of disturbing the nesting
and a large number of actual protected areas are nature refuges which are
birds. And what’s quite amazing is the fact that the counts have continued
private land and not available for such exercises. The deceptive statement
each year up to the present. More than half a century of census information
seems to be saying that three out of 1,300 isn’t something to worry about.
is an extraordinary record.
Unfortunately that approach is indicative of the thinking that seems to be
Margaret and Arthur’s love affair with Hinchinbrook Island blossomed when
controlling this takeover of national park by private enterprise.
they moved to the area and, in 1987, they published Hinchinbrook Island:
The Land Time Forgot, a book containing a wealth of information about the I will have much more to say about this sell-off of national parks in the next
island plus some beautiful photography by Cliff and Dawn Frith. few weeks. In a way, it is comforting to know that Margaret won’t have
to endure the proposed conversion of her beloved Thorsborne Trail into the
The famous 32 kilometre walking trail along the east coast of Hinchinbrook
plaything of some private operator. Having said that, it would have been
Island was named the Thorsborne Trail after Arthur who died in 1991. There
great to have her engaged in the campaign to prevent it happening.
is a reason why it wasn’t named after both Arthur and Margaret. The
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service had a long-standing policy that it Best wishes,
would not name any park feature or facility after a living person. This was
instigated to overcome regular requests to name a campground, lookout
or walking track after a politician or some other dignitary. Consequently,
the trail was officially named in honour of Arthur, but by calling it the
Thorsborne Trail, it was clear that both of them were being commemorated.
For another 27 years after his death, Margaret continued the work she
and Arthur had commenced back in the 1960s. She was a wildlife warrior Peter Ogilvie
in every sense of the term. She took on the role of Wildlife Queensland President
patron in 2001, following Judith Wright’s death the previous year. Like many Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland
remarkable members of this organisation, such as Judith Wright, Kathleen
McArthur and David Fleay to name a few, Margaret will be sadly missed but
not forgotten.
Wildlife Queensland 3
Projects Report
The QGN volunteer team enjoying a sneak peek at gliders inside a nest box.
Queensland Glider Network habitat restoration project. Monitoring activities are based on the
Along with our project on greater gliders, the regular monitoring use of infra-red wildlife cameras, so fingers crossed that we can
of nest boxes in the Larapinta region has been undertaken by soon share with you not only good results but some exciting images
our University of Queensland industry placement student. Several (http://townsville.wildlife.org.au/2018/02/11/searching-for-gliders-a-
volunteers have participated and enjoyed the buzz of seeing gliders new-project-for-wq-townsville/).
curled up inside our nest boxes. There have been some great results Quoll Seekers Network
too, with 14 boxes having been found occupied by gliders! Brush The Quoll Seekers community liaison team has been keenly
tail possums and native bees have also been observed, and in good responding to any reports of spotted tailed quoll sightings in the
abundance. south-east region. A land owner in the Mt Greville/Moogerah area
The Network is also pleased to support the Townsville WPSQ contacted the Network to report a deceased animal that appeared
branch who is working on a mahogany glider monitoring and to be ‘quoll like’ lying in the grass in a paddock. After a quick trip
out to look at the carcass, it turned out to be a bandicoot; still worth
investigating despite the disappointment.
Camera monitoring also took place in this area, but once again
the results yielded more common species and no spotted tailed
quoll. The team is following up a reported sighting in the North
Mclean area of Logan. Infra-red cameras will be in place throughout
September/October and we will be sure to report any signs of quoll
life. Remember to report your own quoll sightings to the QGN via
the Quoll Sighting Form on our website (http://wildlife.org.au/quoll-
seekers-network/).
PlatypusWatch Network
PlatypusWatch’s environmental DNA survey for 2018 has been
finalised, recording some fantastic results. This year the team
Gliders through the screen; images like this
detected platypus in creeks that had recorded negative results in
are what the survey team are hoping to find in every nest box. two previous surveys, highlighting the importance of longitudinal
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2018 Issue 224
Platypus ecologist Tamielle Brunt collects a DNA sample from the The Albert River at Wolffdene provides a perfect example of what
Upper Caboolture River to test for platypus DNA. excellent platypus habitat should look like.
monitoring. This has provided some good news for the residents of butterfly by growing a vine in your backyard. The birdwing butterfly
Ipswich and Logan, where we can now confirm that platypus are vine is just as happy in a pot as it is in the ground. With a little ‘TLC’,
inhabiting particular waterways. Conversely, three consecutive years’ you can have a fantastic green vine growing in your backyard, and
worth of negative results for heavily human-populated systems such maybe a butterfly too! Email birdwing@wildlife.org.au to order your
as Enoggera Creek and Kedron Brook don’t provide us much hope vine.
for finding a platypus population.
Once again, the Moreton Bay local government area recorded
the highest number of positive samples. Albany Ck, Burpengary
Ck, Warraba and South Warraba Ck, Lagoon Ck, North Pine River
and the Upper Caboolture River all recorded samples positive for
platypus DNA.
During the past three years of eDNA surveys, we have learnt that
platypus can survive in waterways which certainly don’t appear
very healthy. While this is encouraging, it is also concerning - how
long can these platypus populations survive in poor environments?
Further investigation is required to understand the population make
up within these systems, i.e.: age structure, gender representation,
health condition and survivability of the inhabitant individuals.
The PlatypusWatch team is now assessing how the eDNA survey
process can be expanded into other geographic locations. There is
still much to learn about this wonderful animal.
Richmond Birdwing Conservation Network
Now is a really good time to head out and find the Richmond
birdwing butterfly. By all accounts, last summer/autumn provided
great conditions for the species and therefore we should have a
strong population base for the beginnings of this season. Add to this
some recent rainfall and warm weather, and we should see birdwing
butterflies on the wing across its current range. Mary Cairncross
Scenic Reserve near Maleny, the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk at
Tamborine Mountain and the Burleigh Heads National Park are all
great locations to spot this beautiful butterfly.
The Network has been working on two major projects of late,
including a review of previous vine planting projects and the
implementation and maintenance of our Tamborine to Mount Cotton
corridor. Findings from the review of previous plantings are proving
important to the success of the current vine planting events as part
of the corridor creation. Most importantly, follow-up maintenance
in the form of water and tendril training appear to greatly assist the
vines in becoming established. Getting the vine to start shooting
upwards, and keeping the plant from drying out, help to ensure that
a good result will follow. This birdiwng butterfly vine is growing very strongly, four years after planting.
Remember, you can do your bit to save the Richmond birdwing The vine is well into the canopy and has a strong, solid stem.
Wildlife Queensland 5
A female tube trapdoor spider, dug out of a burrow in our backyard by my inquisitive son. A beautiful spider,
with golden hairs on the carapace that distinguish this species from those of the true trapdoor group.
There are several species of brown tube spiders, found throughout coastal eastern Australia from Tasmania
and South Australia to Cape Tribulation.
Spiders on the Move
Story and photos by Robert Ashdown
With this extended dry weather gripping the land, it’s hard to look throughout the yard — perhaps their homes were waterlogged and
at our parched, largely grass-free backyard and imagine it’s ever they had to move.
been any other way — or that any urban wildlife could survive here. The Queensland Museum’s Robert Raven thought that our
However, as it warms up for what will probably be a blistering trapdoor was a member of the genus Misgolas (possibly pulchellus),
summer, the drone of the year’s first charming green bladder cicadas from the family Idiopidae, commonly known as spiny trapdoor
fills the air, proving that cicada nymphs have survived underground spiders. There are over 110 species in this family in Australia, with
and another generation is emerging after what may have been years research revealing more species all the time and taxonomic work
of subterranean life. on this fascinating group continuing apace. While spiders from
the family Idiopidae have an apparently painful bite, ‘medical
Other sounds are missing, or unusual. It’s October and I’ve
complications’ have not eventuated from bites.
heard no common koels, no kingfishers. Instead I hear the call of a
white-throated gerygone, a first for me here — some species must
surely move to the suburbs in search of nectar or water, while other
expected travellers are seemingly late.
I remember when this Toowoomba backyard was more like a
tropical jungle. In December 2010 it had rained on and off for
weeks. The epic floods of January 2011 were just out of sight
around the corner, something no-one could have imagined in this
town perched high on the edge of the Great Dividing Range.
In that steamy, rain-soaked time I recall butterflies and dragonflies
cruising through the yard, as the heat and sunshine powered an
explosion of invertebrate life. It was a wonderful time for an urban
naturalist with an interest in invertebrates. One type of multi-legged
wildlife fascinated me (but not so much others) that month.
My son first discovered the tube trapdoor spiders living in our
backyard after curiosity compelled him to dig up a strange hole. The Not every black spider is a funnelweb. This is a female mouse
spider revealed was fantastic, covered in golden hairs and fierce- spider Missulena (possibly occatoria). The colourful male red-
headed mouse spider has a blue body and a … red head.
looking. With the rains, their silk-lined burrow entrances appeared
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2018 Issue 224
Deadly Australian funnel-web spiders
can also kill melanoma cancer cells,
a recent study shows.
Catch it on http://www.abc.net.au/
news/2018-10-06/peptide-from-
spider-venom-killing-melanoma-
cells/10344588
Another spider that Toowoomba residents sometimes encounter
in summer after rain has a bite that definitely can cause ‘medical
A tube trapdoor spider in a very muddy and water-logged burrow complications’. While we have not found the hostile, or Darling
in our front yard after rain. The silk-lined burrow, which is built Downs, funnelweb (Hadronyche infensa) in our backyard, they are
with an open entrance, may be lined with dead leaves and can found on the eastern edges of the city’s escarpment. There are 50
even extend above the ground. Australian species now described in the family Hexathelidae — the
Australian funnelweb spiders.
Funnelwebs hunt and mate at night. With rain and heat, male
spiders shed their skins inside their burrows and wander in search
of females. This is when they may take a wrong turn and end up in
houses. At dawn they seek shelter under logs and amongst clumps
of leaves — where they are sometimes encountered by gardeners.
Funnelwebs are one of the world’s most dangerous spiders, with
14 deaths attributed to bites before an antivenom was developed
in 1981. All deaths were from male spiders and were in New South
Wales. There are still occasional bites to people in Queensland, with
a recent case from Newmarket in Brisbane.
Identification of large, dark spiders is very difficult, as the features
of the animal have to be carefully examined — not recommended
unless you are a spider expert. Unfortunately, many large, harmless
Our very own local funnelweb, the hostile or Darling Downs spiders are killed in the mistaken belief that they are funnelweb
funnelweb (Hadronyche infensa). The species name means hostile, spiders.
aggressive or pugnacious. Both males and females of this species
are dangerous. Often, with very little provocation, funnelwebs
There are all sorts of urban myths and fake news stories about
will rise into the defensive pose with a drop of highly toxic venom spiders, particularly funnelwebs. For a wealth of accurate information
hanging off each fang. Apparently one drop is enough to kill an about this and many other types of spider, head to the excellent
adult human, although much of the venom is often absorbed in information pages on the Queensland Museum’s website, or grab
clothes during bites.
a copy of the astonishing and must-have book A Field Guide to
Spiders of Australia by Robert Whyte and Greg Anderson.
Grant success
Wildlife Queensland was successful in obtaining a
grant from the Queensland Community Foundation
(QCF).
QCF is a leading state and national trust fund
providing an enduring income stream to charities.
Wildlife Queensland was in urgent need of
While walking a track at Mt Lofty, Toowoomba, I bumped into
a fellow wandering local — a possible female funnelweb. I say
replacing the computer system server so we were
possible because these spiders are hard to identify without a close really grateful to QCF when we received a grant of
examination, and a grumpy, warmed-up spider is best admired
from a distance. Not a great idea to have one of these attached to
$11,000 for purchasing and installing a new server.
your finger.
Wildlife Queensland 7
Holly Bryant Award winners
There were two winners announced at the ‘A Conservation Conversation’ dinner on 17 November.
The award which comprises a certificate and gift in memory of Holly Bryant, former Projects Manager
with WPSQ, who passed away in 2015. It is funded by her husband Todd, Holly’s family and friends.
Zoe Hortop including the species preference for nest box
height, aspect and installation tree species.
During her industry placement Zoe
developed a policy that established Wildlife As part of the project, Penelope
Queensland’s stance on the protection established a monitoring regime to learn
and conservation of four native flying-fox more about time frames for occupancy by
species that occur on mainland Queensland greater gliders and non-target species such
(spectacled flying-fox, grey-headed flying- as brush tail possums. Penelope participated
Holly Bryant
fox, little red flying-fox, and black flying-fox). in much of the monitoring work for this
This involved outlining the scope of the project and continues to assist, well beyond experience working in unfamiliar fields of
policy, placing it in context, defining goals the term of her placement program. study including financial management and
and actions required to achieve the goals as Through her time with Wildlife stakeholder engagement.
well as listing all references and the relevant Queensland, Penelope gained an Penelope is a recipient of the Holly Bryant
legislation and associated legal instruments.
Council formally adopted the finalised
draft policy as in October 2017. Zoe was
informed her quality, science based work
will guide Wildlife Queensland’s actions in
the foreseeable future and will undoubtedly
contribute to the long-term conservation
and protection of flying foxes in Queensland.
Her efforts during the placement were well
rewarded academically by the University.
When Zoe volunteered to continue
to review and develop policies Wildlife
Queensland readily welcomed her back on
board. In recognition of her commitment,
Zoe is a fitting recipient of the Holly Bryant
Award.
Penelope Webster
Penelope’s project was to design and
implement a nest box installation and
monitoring program targeting three greater
glider populations across Brisbane. However,
more than just the installation of nest boxes,
this project was designed to assist Wildlife Peter Ogilvie and award winners Penelope and Zoe
Queensland and the Queensland Glider
Network address knowledge gaps relating understanding of managing and planning a Award in recognition of her developing
to greater gliders use of manmade nest project from scratch to benefit conservation skills, her dedication and her willingness to
boxes. The program was established to gain actions, learnt more about the functionality assist beyond the project term.
an understanding on Installation parameters of working in an NGO and gained some
Shop and help protect our native wildlife
Have you looked at our shop lately? There is a selection of great gift ideas that
will cater for your festive season shopping. You will be amazed at what we have
listed and there are items to suit all ages.
Shop now to be sure of receiving before the holidays.
Go to https://wildlife.org.au/store/
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Southern Branches Get Together (SBGT) & AGM Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland
Copies of the annual, branch and gave a short presentation on endangered
financial reports and minutes of the last species of southern Queensland including
AGM were distributed. bilbies and animals of the Scenic Rim. This
The Annual General Meeting followed was followed by a talk by Sheena Gillman
during which all positions were declared and Zoe Stone on the status of the eastern
vacant. The election of council members was bristle bird in the area and future plans for
held and all positions were filled. its conservation.
President: Peter Ogilvie Ronda gave a brief report on the Bioblitz
followed by Prof Roger Kitching presenting
Vice President: Michael Lusis
a talk on 'Don't forget the little guys!
Cedar Creek welcomed us © L Bowden
Secretary: Des Boyland Invertebrates and the running of the world.’
Treasurer: David Keogh
This was held on Saturday 8 September Councillors: Andrew Dinwoodie, Robert
2018 at Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Standish-White, and Nina Hardie
Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd,
Tamborine. Peter thanked retiring member Keith
McDonald who has contributed for many
Thank you to hosts Scenic Rim branch. years.
And what a lovely part of the world this is. A
number of members made the most of it by The AGM was followed by lunch and
staying at the resort on Friday and Saturday the presentation of the annual awards.
nights. President Peter Ogilvie presented the
Margaret Thorsborne, Campaign and two
The day was attended by representatives Project awards. (See separate item on the
from ten branches which was very good Awards.)
coverage for this southern region of
Queensland. Bayside branch had the highest Later in the afternoon Ronda Green
representation.
President of the host branch Ronda Green
We started with informative presentations © S Homewood
from branches including Scenic Rim,
Brisbane, Bayside, Sunshine Coast, Moreton
This included the results of his moth-
Bay, Capricorn, Kedron Brook Catchment,
collecting in both spring and autumn at
Logan, Upper Dawson and Gold Coast. From
Thunderbird Park, and their significance. It
their reports it can be seen that many are
seems that there are still many invertebrates
achieving their aims. We have collated and
that have not been described.
published the written reports received from
branches. If a member would like a copy of Unfortunately the proposed gentle
the written reports these can be emailed to bushwalk and birdwatching had to be
you on request. cancelled due to the rain.
The President, Peter Ogilvie, formally
welcomed members and guests and thanked
the staff and volunteers for organising the
55th AGM. The President then presented his
report on the Society’s activities and projects
Viola Temple-Watts presented the branch report
for the 2017-2018 year and detailed some for Upper Dawson branch © S Homewood
of the plans for the future.
We need your help!
WPSQ will run a BBQ at Bunnings Manly West on 22 December. This is our last fund
raiser for the year and should be a busy day.
If you can spare a couple of hours to help please call Janelle on 3844 0129
Wildlife Queensland 9
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We are doing great things…
Annual awards were announced at the She is the public face of the branch. Council three-year Community Partnership
AGM & southern branches get-together. A key member of the Mahogany Glider Program which provides funding of
Recovery Team Daryl actively works with $50,000 per year for fauna surveys by three
Daryl Dickson, president of the Cassowary qualified ecologists (including Faunawatch
Coast – Hinchinbrook branch was a Captive Glider agencies. She has generously
donated her art work as a thank you to the coordinator Paul Smith) and the second
well-deserved winner of the Margaret three-year partnership with the Council.
Thorsborne Award. The award acknowledges previous Threatened Species Commissioner
and also as a prize for fundraising. Other conservation organisations have also
members who, like Margaret have made contributed for surveys.
an outstanding contribution to Wildlife The Project Award for a new or
Queensland, to conservation and to the ongoing Wildlife Queensland project Faunawatch provides wildlife surveys for
community. involving the community had two winners. Stockland, and notes on wildlife and habitat
to new residents. It has around 30 active
Daryl has a hands on approach as a 1. Fraser Coast branch - Wildlife talks in the contributing members and a newsletter
wildlife carer and is an experienced handler library subscription of 130. Additional to Land for
of Mahogany Gliders resulting in the first In 2015, Fraser Coast Regional Councillor, Wildlife surveys it records data on monthly
glider in care since Cyclone Yasi being George Seymour invited Fraser Coast walks.
released near Cardwell. A keen birdwatcher, branch to host monthly wildlife talks at the
Daryl is a willing and experienced volunteer High quality data is collected or mediated
Hervey Bay Library which publicised the by experts, using observation and various
on the annual Torres Strait Pigeon counts at talks via the council website and a media
Brook Island. tools. Data is recorded and housed
release. Speakers with expert knowledge electronically at the University of the
Her community engagement includes of conservation issues were invited to give Sunshine Coast, allowing access by students,
involving students at Kennedy State School presentations on a wide variety of topics. researchers and Sunshine Coast Council.
in the Glenbora Project managing the This well supported program is now in its
installation and monitoring of cameras; as Faunawatch has made a significant
fourth year.
a main driver of the branch’s very successful contribution to the goals of Wildlife
The level of concern and knowledge Queensland by educating land owners
Project Field Day late last year; working about the environment by the Australian
with the Girringun Rangers supporting their and members of the public in conservation
public is currently very low so the program is values, and by facilitating informed
work with wildlife; and participating in many endeavouring to encourage interest in, and
other local community groups regarding government and other planning through
concern, for nature. Most attendees were sound baseline data. The breadth of its
wildlife. members of the general public including activities ensures a wide reach into the
Daryl has engaged the wider community university students. community. Contributing members enjoy
through her work on signage, her many Outcomes: social benefits, while strong partnerships
radio and TV interviews, her maintenance of 1. Information about branch activities is with other conservation groups, government,
the branch blog site and her work with Wet conveyed the university and commercial interests have
Tropics Management Authority to engage resulted in effective conservation advocacy.
2. Recruitment of new members.
tourist operators with endangered species.
3. Provides a forum to raise environmental Faunawatch is a significant resource in
issues eg plastic pollution and the preservation of wildlife habitat on the
programs by other groups. Sunshine Coast, and strengthens the role
4. Donations to the branch. and profile of Wildlife Queensland.
5. Success has led to a similar program in
Maryborough with branch assistance. Coomera Conservation Group (Gold
Coast & Hinterland branch subcommittee)
2. Sunshine Coast and Hinterland Branch - received the Campaign Award. The
Fauna Watch group's high level research, strategic
In the past year the branch continued lobbying, ability to work constructively with
its 20-year Faunawatch project of wildlife all levels of Government and engagement
data collection, targeting Land for Wildlife with the local community are all geared
properties and other areas at the request to saving, in spite of the intensive
of Sunshine Coast Council and local development, the genetically significant
Sunshine coast award accepted by Jill koala population.
conservation and commercial groups.
Chamberlain, Judith Crighton and Helen Kershaw
© S Homewood This is the first year of a Sunshine Coast Large scale habitat preservation was one
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th
A rou nd
Bayside Branch passionate about the environmental assets
of Moreton Bay and its Ramsar sites. The
Ramsar 25th Anniversary day included speakers and at low tide
Towards the end of October WPSQ organised groups were taken out on to the
Bayside Branch attended two interesting mudflats for a hands on experience.
events celebrating the 25th Anniversary All participants gained from the
of the Moreton Bay Ramsar site, an experience and the knowledge of the
international treaty protecting wetlands. attendees.
The Cleveland event, organised by Well done to the organisers and helpers
Redlands2030, was held in G.J.Walter Park for making this such a successful event.
adjacent to the threatened Moreton Bay
wetlands at Toondah Harbour and was to Wonderful Wildlife Day at IndigiScapes
“Welcome back the Shorebirds” fresh from was an opportunity for the branch to
their migratory travels. interact with the youth of the area who
came along on the day to be entertained,
Lynn Ogden receives the certificate for Coomera The hundreds of people who attended
educated and have fun. Many of them
Conservation Group © S Homewood listened to speakers on wader birds and
proved to be well informed on wildlife
their migratory habits and koalas. In
identification. Backyard wildlife was the
of the key recommendations of the Expert addition to the displays, binoculars were set
branch theme with some interactive
Panel, convened by the State Government,
activities as well as educational material to
a panel to which this Group had valuable
sell and give away.
input. They are steadily, skilfully and
tenaciously progressing towards this goal.
They are also organizing a conference which Fraser Coast Branch
will bring together key experts and groups, Fraser Coast branch in conjunction with EDO
in a crucial and timely Summit for Survival of Qld held a free workshop in September to
the species. show how to use our legal system to help
The Group rescues koalas dispersed, protect the environment. Participants were
stranded and often injured, and advocates invited to get interested in decision making,
for rescue of those, trapped in the tiny Ramsar 25th Anniversary Cleveland including urban development proposals,
fragmented islands. With the wider goal mining, land clearing and impacts to our
of survival uppermost they have helped coast and waterways.
to identify where viable populations may up to view the wetland feeding sites and a
be protected and are actively working for koala spotting walk had been organised.
that. Their constructive outcome oriented Bayside’s display marquee was popular.
tenacity is in the best traditions of Wildlife Our leaflets, information on the 2019 Cicada
Queensland as is their productive liaison Awards and WPSQ publications were well Are you interested in decision making that affects you, your community
or the region you care about, including urban development proposals,
with those doing the best practice research received. Thanks to all those who came and mining, land clearing and impacts to our Coast and Waterways?
BE HEARD
on this issue. helped, or just discussed the threats we Use your rights effectively
Get the information you need from government
have in that area from overdevelopment and Come learn from the experts in environmental law:
Branch activities the
Tracks
destruction of the wetlands, this a big issue
for our Branch.
EDO Qld and Wildlife Queensland, Fraser Coast, invite you to an
information session to show you how to use our legal system to
help protect the environment
A r o u nd
Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre
Charles Street, Pialba
The following day the branch had a
2 pm – 4 pm
Sunday, September 16
Free Entry
display along with Moreton Bay Branch Registration by phone: Sara 4129 5789
Upper Dawson Branch at the Wetlands Expo, on the shoreline
Or by email: to Carol on
bussey.tony@westnet.com.au
This branch faces a number of issues at Deception Bay, organised by Redcliffe
including the large volumes of toxic salts Flight n Flora Art Exhibition
Environmental Forum. Many groups
that have been brought to the surface by In July Gold Coast branch - Save Black
were represented including the University
the CSG industry, the plan to inject power Swan Lake Committee invited all to join
of Queensland Biodiversity Road Show
station carbon capture into the Precipice them to support local and young artists
an interactive display featuring some
Aquifer near Wandoan and ungrazed stock and the environment. Art was sold with
live specimens, bird groups, Queensland
routes full of Buffel and other introduced funds raised going to Wildlife Queensland
government agencies, Bribie Island
grasses presenting a fire problem for the and the ongoing campaign to Save Black
Protection Group and Coral Watch. It was
summer. Swan Lake. There was also food, wine and
a very focussed, well attended event and
entertainment to enjoy.
those who perused our display were very
Wildlife Queensland 11Help the Brush-tailed
rock wallaby bounce back!
The brush tailed rock wallaby (BTRW) is listed as vulnerable under of historical use and a number of recent sightings, however no
both federal and state legislation. A national recovery plan for the permanent inhabitation); facilitate the recovery of foraging habitat
species was published in 2011. The species distribution stretches suitable to sustain a breeding colony; and maintain connectivity with
from the Grampians in Victoria to Nanango in Queensland and other identified sites.
the population is split into three evolutionary significant units, the Wildlife Queensland will undertake a project to continue the
northern evolutionary significant unit is found in SE Queensland. restoration of RW08 – The Den, in order to achieve the management
Habitat modification, fragmentation and pressure from introduced objectives identified by ICC who have funded weed control
predators has contributed to a large decline in the occurrence and contractors to undertake preliminary creeping lantana control at
population size of this wallaby. this site, however additional and ongoing work is required. Wildlife
Wildlife Queensland’s end-of-year appeal will provide funds to Queensland would look to engage weed control contractors and
restore habitat within the Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate, volunteers to continue the weed control work.
Ipswich. Many of the threats, objectives and conservation actions Funds raised through Wildlife Queensland’s end of year appeal
identified in the National Recovery plan are relevant to the Flinders- would be put towards a BTRW project to:
Goolman BTRW population; Ipswich council have developed a
• Reduce weed biomass in a known BTRW foraging locations
population specific recovery plan focusing on the recovery of BTRW
populations within Ipswich. As part of this plan, the Ipswich City • Engage and manage community volunteers to assist with the
Council (ICC) have identified, assessed and mapped BTRW colonies, project
foraging and denning sites within Flinders-Goolman and for each • Understand BTRW activity at the site, before and after weed
known site, have developed a suite of management objectives control activities
required for the conservation of the species. ICC are actively working • Identify the occurrence of introduced species that inhabit and
on some of these identified sites and have committed to doing so frequent the site, communicating the results to Ipswich City
into the future. Council for inclusion in vertebrate pest control programs
The management objectives identified for this site by the ICC • Facilitate the occupation of currently unused denning sites by
team are to re-establish a breeding colony (widespread evidence BTRW through improved foraging habitat.
Fraser Island Photo Competition: Qld Govt and Wildlife Australia magazine
On World Environment Day (June 5) the Minister for Environment Leeanne Wildlife Queensland assisted in the promotion of the competition through
Enoch invited keen photographers to enter the Snap Up Some Paradise our ebulletin and facebook.
photo competition to celebrate 25 years since the beautiful Fraser Island The ‘Snap Up Some Paradise’ competition had three categories –
(K’gari) was listed as a World Heritage Area. Landscapes, Sand & Water and Flora & Fauna. The winners will have
“This competition is a wonderful opportunity to promote and celebrate their work showcased in the Fraser Island 2019 Calendar, and in the
K’gari’s unique World Heritage values,” Ms Enoch said. “We are celebrating December 2018 issue of Wildlife Australia magazine. (Look for our ‘gift with
the listing and the island’s importance to future generations with the subscription’ Christmas offer)
Traditional Owners, the Butchulla people, who know this island as K’gari,
meaning ‘paradise’.
122018 Issue 224
Inspiring stronger ties
to nature to empower
conservation, Wildlife
Australia celebrates 55 years
of publication
When Judith Wright McKinney, David Fleay and Kathleen
McArthur published a joint letter in Brisbane’s Courier-
Mail on 24 July 1962 about the need for greater and
better education about wildlife, Jacaranda publisher
Brian Clouston (who had published books by all three)
offered to produce a magazine if an organisation was
formed to back it. The rest, as they say, is history.
From the beginning, with the encouragement of poet Judith
Wright McKinney, naturalist David Fleay and ecologist Dr Len Webb,
Wildlife Australia Magazine (WAM) has aimed for articles that are
accurate, thought-provoking and an enjoyable read. It is sometimes
hard to get the balance right! WAM has always recognised the
importance of visual messages, and valued and welcomed the work
of a range of photographers on the covers and on the pages of the
magazine.
Digital technology makes it easier for WAM to include plenty of
striking, informative and often colourful images in each issue. A
big thank you to our contributors (articles and photographs) who
provide them to us at no cost.
But how do the magazines get to the subscribers? Like every
good environmental campaign, WAM is a tremendous team effort. SPRING 2018
VOL. 55 NO.
There are hundreds who have donated time, talent and enthusiasm
3 $12.50 INC GST
to Wildlife Queensland’s flagship publication and supported its role
in protecting and promoting Australian wildlife. However, no matter
how great a publication is, it’s not much use unless there’s someone
reading it.
Over recent years we, like many other magazine publishers, have
seen a decline in subscriptions. We know we have a great product
but we need to have the magazine reach a greater readership: more
people to subscribe – for themselves, as gifts to family & friends, or
to a local school or library. When you give a gift of a subscription
is not a one-off gift – with 4 issues a year you will be remembered
each time the next issue arrives.
Thank you to all the people who already support us as subscribers
and through gift subscriptions. Remember any proceeds from the Scale
magazine fund our on ground projects – your subscription can help
us plant a vine or install a nest box! Nanostructu
res
Devil facial tum
ours Desert advent
ure
Wildlife Queensland 13WILDLIFE LAND FUND LIMITED
The Wildlife Land Reesville Nature Refuge;
Fund Limited is in a • Visited property with Sunshine Coast
great position to build Council Conservation Partnerships
on the hard work and officer, agreed to continue the
contributions made development of the Reesville Nature
by many over the Refuge Environmental Management
past 12 months. It is Plan
immensely important to acknowledge and
• Completion of the lantana control
thank all of the volunteers who contribute
project on the Witta Nature Refuge
so much to the ongoing success of our
and acquittal of the grant funding
organisation. This recognition includes the
associated with this project;
team of people in the office who ensure
administration tasks associated with running • Completed during the reporting year
the organisation are taken care of, and with 95% of the lantana treated,
our dedicated and hardworking members follow up treatment is scheduled to
who volunteer their time to maintain and take place during the 2018/2018 year
improve our properties, at times single- • Maintenance contracts allocated to
handed. contractors for Witta and Reesville; Soft leaf bracken is growing strongly on
the Witta Nature Refuge
Further recognition should be paid to • Weed maintenance contracts issued
the Sunshine Coast Council’s Conservation and delivered Ltd Facebook page and Instagram
Partnerships program for their ongoing account; and
• Website upgrade;
support of WLFL activities at the Witta • Four well-attended working bees at
• Built a new website which is fully
Nature Refuge and Neil Holloway Reesville the Witta Nature Refuge.
operational, including an online
Nature Refuge. WLFL has benefitted through membership and donation payment Of further significance is the decision
our Voluntary Conservation Agreement option of founding Wildlife Land Fund Director
(VCA) established with the Sunshine Coast Brian Lowry to retire from the Board in
Council to fund weed management efforts • Development of a strategic plan and
2018/2019. Brian has contributed much
at both the Witta and Reesville properties. associated vison, mission and goal
to the organisation over the past 18
This program further benefits the local development;
years; the Board is very grateful for Brian’s
Sunshine Coast community via WLFL’s choice • Provided a draft plan, currently under commitment and direction during this time.
to issue weed control contracts to local review, to the WLFL directors. His steady word and valuable input will be
companies. WLFL will continue to engage Additional achievements include: sorely missed. Thankfully, Brian and Grace
local businesses for future work on both will continue to keep a close eye on the
properties. • the awarding of a Nature Refuge grant
for the Reesville property for weed Witta property and have committed to
The Wildlife Land fund Ltd made management to expand the assisted helping out whenever needed. On behalf
progress on the following 2017/2018 regeneration site; of the current Board and members alike, I’d
goals: genuinely like to thank Brian for his time as
• the creation of social media pages a Director and I look forward to catching up
• Environmental management plan including a Wildlife Land Fund in the future.
completed for the Neil Holloway
Australian Collaborative Education Network Ltd
This is the professional association for organisation. WPSQ was one of three
sectors involved with work integrated finalists and won the award.
learning (WIL). ACEN provides strategic WPSQ has hosted more than 20
leadership for work integrated learning placement students over the past five
research, scholarship and practice in years – a significant contribution to the
Australia, for its members and other University of Queensland’s Earth and
stakeholders. Environmental Sciences work integrated
At the 2018 ACEN National Conference, learning program.
held in Brisbane during October, awards Other awards presented at the
were presented to organizations associated ACEN National Conference include:
with work integrated learning programs. ACEN Collaborative Award - Recognising
Local Hero Award the sustained and significant contribution
This award is made to a small-medium to work integrated learning
enterprise partner that is contributing ACEN Case Studies Award - Recognising
to work integrated learning beyond the quality and innovative WIL practices Accepting the award from Amanda Cooke were
the expectations of the size of their across a diverse range of disciplines, Des Boyland and Matt Cecil
models and methods
142018 Issue 224
WPSQ in Action A snapshot of advocacy work on your behalf Wildlife Queensland was thanked for its assistance in ensuring the photo
competition is a roaring success with over 200 entrants. Wildlife Queensland and
Submissions and Correspondence Wildlife Australia Magazine will continue to play a role until December 2018
July when the winners will be announced.
• Wildlife Queensland called on Mark Furner, the federal Minister for Agricultural • Meetings were held with a range of local authorities, including Brisbane City
Industry Development and Fisheries, to ban opera house traps and other Council, to discuss plastic waste reduction and the release of helium-filled
enclosed yabby traps in Queensland, reactivating a 2009 campaign which balloons. Wildlife Queensland is delighted with the outcomes and commitments
unfortunately met with limited success. The recent decision by the Victorian given that will lead to a better environment for our wildlife.
Government to ban such traps from July 2019 in all Victorian waters due to August
non-target species (especially platypus) deaths, spurred the Society to take up
• Meeting was held with Department of Environment and Science to discuss our
the cause again. Wildlife Queensland has joined with Queensland Alliance for
submission on amendments to the Wildlife Trade Management Plan –
Platypus. On 18 September Wildlife Queensland received a response from
Queensland Crocodile Farming to the federal Department of Environment and
Minister Furner’s Chief of Staff on his behalf. Unfortunately, the response (no
Energy at their request. The change to the plan is to permit harvesting of eggs.
immediate action by the Minister) was disappointing, however, not unexpected.
Considerable research has been undertaken by respected researchers. Following
Action will continue.
the meeting correspondence was received addressing all our concerns raised and
• Correspondence was forwarded to Minister Leeanne Enoch on plastic waste and acknowledging our useful input.
a call for either a ban on mass release of helium-filled balloons or amendments
• Wildlife Queensland organised a meeting with the Department of Environment
to legislation so that it is very transparent that releasing balloons is a littering
and Science also attended by RSPCA and AgForce Queensland to discuss the
offence.
issuance of damage mitigation permits (dmps) for kangaroos and scope for
August improved practice. There is a concern that certain animal welfare issues arising
• Further submission on development application A004795401 SUEZ Transport from illegal activities not associated with dmps could impact the industry.
hub to Brisbane City Council based on response from SUEZ failing to adequately • Meetings were held with AMCS, WWF and the Department of Environment and
address many issues raised in the initial submission . Science to discuss the Great Barrier Reef and current action being taken to assist
September in our Society’s policy development.
• Minister Dr Lynham advised Queensland’s Legislative Assembly of the extension
of the Stock Route Management Regulation 2003 indicating he was consulting
with graziers, drovers and local authorities about reviewing the legislation. WPSQ head office will be closed from
Wildlife Queensland immediately contacted the Department of Natural
Resources, Mines and Energy, and received a rapid and positive response.
Monday 24 December 2018 and reopen on
Planning for the project is currently underway and it is the Department’s Wednesday 2 January 2019.
intention to consult with Wildlife Queensland as it undertakes the assessment
work required to meet the Minister’s commitments. We wish you all a happy festive season.
• Submission to the Senate’s Environment and Communications References
Committee for inquiry and report on Australia's faunal extinction crisis.
October
• Submission to the Great Artesian Basin Secretariat, Water Division, Department
of Agriculture and Water Resources on the draft Great Artesian Basin Strategic
Management Plan 2018. Comments focussed on sustainability as recent CSIRO Wildlife Queensland HQ:
research indicates the Basin is a declining resource. Who’s who
• Wildlife Queensland has been invited to sit on the Biosecurity Legislation State Council
Review Committee to identify issues for consideration under the 3 year review President: Peter Ogilvie
of the Biosecurity Act 2014 (Act Review) and identify potential solutions for Vice-Presidents: Michael Lusis
dealing with them. The committee will work with Biosecurity Queensland to Secretary: Des Boyland
raise awareness of the Act Review, and to foster communication and the dissemi- Treasurer: David Keogh
nation of information to stakeholder groups and members of the public in order Councillors: Andrew Dinwoodie, Robert Standish-White and Nina Hardie
to facilitate a shared understanding of the issues and potential solutions. Council Observer: Paul Sutton
Regular volunteers: John Hutt, Warren Johnson, Beth Pegg, Jenny Thynne,
Meetings of note Maryann Kenny, Linda Sulakatku, Rensche Schep, Steve Homewood and Diane
July Lam. Plus the wonderful teams who help with mail-outs, projects and surveys
Staff:
• Meeting with Catholic Justice & Peace Commission (CJPC) re potential Policies and Campaigns Manager: Des Boyland
involvement in plastic waste reduction and wildlife projects. The reason for the Operations Manager: Janelle Devery
meeting was that the CJPC was to be involved in taking action in light of the Membership Support Officer: Doreen Payne
Pope’s provocative encyclical on the environment. Wildlife Queensland has Project Manager: Matt Cecil
forwarded potential activities in which the CJPC can be involved. Communications Officer: Natasha Bryant
• Fraser Island World Heritage Scientific Advisory Committee meeting was held. Book-keeper: Madeleine Hodder
Newsletter: graphic designer: Joy Hinckley; editor: Doreen Payne
Wildlife Queensland 15E TO LIA
A
C RIB STR
U BS E AU
S IF
L
I LD
W
Sunset 75 Mile Beach. Photo: Nathalie Kirschen
Give yourself or your loved ones
RRP
the gift of nature all year long with $
20
our special Christmas offer.
SUBSCRIBE TO WILDLIFE AUSTRALIA
#31679
AND RECEIVE A FREE 2019 K’GARI
FRASER ISLAND CALENDAR*.
*This offer is for all new print subscriptions. Offer expires January 31 or while
stocks last. Australia only.
HOW TO SUBSCRIBE
Print subscriptions
Visit www.wildlife-australia.org.au/subscribe
Phone (07) 3844 0129 This limited-edition calendar
Enquiries to wpsq@wildlife.org.au
celebrates in vivid colour 25 years of
Digital subscriptions
Download the Wildlife Australia app from World Heritage listing for beautiful
the app store on iTunes, Google Play, K’gari (Fraser Island), the world’s
Kindle Fire or Pocketmags
Past issues available.
largest sand island and the traditional
Proceeds from sales support conservation projects. home of the Butchulla People.
Published since 1963, Wildlife Australia is committed to inspiring stronger ties to nature to empower conservation.
SUPPORT CONSERVATION. ORDER ONLINE AT wildlife-australia.org.au/subscribe
SPRING 2018 VOL. 55 NO. 3 $12.50 INC GST WINTER 2018 VOL. 55 NO. 2 $12.50 INC GST AUTUMN 2018 VOL. 55 NO. 1 $12.50 INC GST SUMMER 2017 VOL. 54 NO. 4 $12.50 INC GST SPRING 2017 VOL. 54 NO. 3 $12.50 INC GST WINTER 2017 VOL. 54 NO. 2 $12.50 INC GST AUTUMN 2017 VOL. 54 NO. 1 SUMMER 2016 VOL. 53 NO. 4
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SPRING 2018 WINTER 2018 AUTUMN 2018 SUMMER 2017 SPRING 2017 WINTER 2017 AUTUMN 2017 SUMMER 2016
Nanostructures Salp swarms Saving geckos Plant touch responses Unlikely finds Burrowing birds Mite exploits Manta rays
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Devil facial Urban adapters Museum taxidermy Crocodile vision Guardian dogs Trapdoor spiders Finding food Suicidal sex
Desert adventure Climate change Weird insect deaths Soundscape ecology Bush kindy Torpor Eavesdropping Optional cloningYou can also read
