Red Gum Reserve Management Plan - Golden Plains Shire · 2018-10-10 · Red Gum Reserve Page 2 of 22 Management Plan 2. Background and Context 2.1. Values and Significance The reserve

Issued: December 2008 Prepared By: Dale Smithyman


Red Gum Reserve Management Plan 2009


Printed on Ecostar 100% Recycled Paper

Contents 1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................1

1.1. Location and planning area.......................................................................................1 2. Background and Context ...................................................................................................2

2.1. Values and Significance............................................................................................2 2.2. Legislation and guidelines.........................................................................................2 2.3. Strategic Direction .....................................................................................................2

2.3.1. Conservation Area............................................................................................2 2.3.2. Private Use Area ..............................................................................................3

3. Natural Resource Management.........................................................................................4 3.1. Geology and Landforms............................................................................................4 3.2. Soils...........................................................................................................................4 3.3. Flora ..........................................................................................................................4 3.4. Fauna ........................................................................................................................4 3.5. Fire ............................................................................................................................4 3.6. Threatening Processes .............................................................................................5

3.6.1. Pest Plants........................................................................................................5 3.6.2. Pest Animals.....................................................................................................6

4. Cultural Resource Management ........................................................................................7 4.1. Indigenous cultural heritage ......................................................................................7 4.2. Post-settlement cultural heritage...............................................................................7

5. Land Use Management......................................................................................................8 5.1. Land Tenure ..............................................................................................................8 5.2. Management .............................................................................................................8

5.2.1. Conservation Area............................................................................................8 5.2.2. Private Use Area ..............................................................................................8 5.2.3. Tracks ...............................................................................................................9 5.2.4. Pedestrian Access..........................................................................................10 5.2.5. Fencing ...........................................................................................................10 5.2.6. Signage...........................................................................................................10 5.2.7. Interpretation...................................................................................................10 5.2.8. Revegetation...................................................................................................10

6. Authorised uses ...............................................................................................................12 6.1. Vehicle access ........................................................................................................12 6.2. Private Use..............................................................................................................12 6.3. Firewood Collection.................................................................................................12 6.4. Rubbish Dumping....................................................................................................12 6.5. Recreation ...............................................................................................................12

6.5.1. Horse Riding ...................................................................................................12 6.5.2. Motorbike riding ..............................................................................................12 6.5.3. Walking ...........................................................................................................13 6.5.4. Cycling ............................................................................................................13 6.5.5. Dogs and Cats ................................................................................................13 6.5.6. Camping .........................................................................................................13 6.5.7. Fires................................................................................................................13 6.5.8. Education........................................................................................................13 6.5.9. Research ........................................................................................................14

7. Implementation ................................................................................................................15 8. References.......................................................................................................................18 9. Appendix 1 – Flora Species List for the Batesford Area..................................................19 10. Appendix 2 – Fauna Species List for the Batesford area............................................20 11. Appendix 3 – Revegetation species ............................................................................22 Version control 1.00 Original document developed Dale Smithyman June 2008 1.01 Second draft developed Dale Smithyman November 2008 1.02 Endorsed by Council December 2009

Red Gum Reserve Page 1 of 22 Management Plan

1. Introduction

1.1. Location and planning area The Red Gum Reserve is located in the township of Batesford on Blackall Road. The management area encompasses 5.9 hectares (14.4 acres) and is bounded by Dog Rocks Road, Blackall Road and privately owned land (Figure 1). The Reserve contains a significant remnant River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and areas of native grassland. The Reserve falls within the Corangamite Catchment Management Area and the Golden Plains Shire Council local government area.


2. Background and Context

2.1. Values and Significance The reserve is located in the Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion and contains remnants of the endangered Plains Grassy Woodland Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC). Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55_61) consists of open, eucalypt woodland to 15 m tall. It occupies well drained, fertile soils on flat and gently undulating plains at low elevations and the understorey consists of a few sparse shrubs over a species-rich grassy and herbaceous ground layer (DSE 2004). Being located amidst extensively cleared peri-urban and rural farming landscapes, the remaining area of natural vegetation is now of high local conservation significance.

2.2. Legislation and guidelines Management of the reserves is carried out under the direction of the following legislation: Federal Legislation

Environment and Biodiversity Protection Act 1999 Native Title Act 1993

State Legislation Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 Fences Act 1968 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 Forests Act 1958 Heritage Act 1995 Local Government Act 1989 Planning and Environment Act 1987

2.3. Strategic Direction The Reserve was set aside as part of a subdivision for rural residential development as a ‘Reserve for Municipal and Drainage Purposes’ in 1980. The reserve status was subsequently revoked and separate titles created for the two sections of the Reserve (Lot 1 on Plan of Subdivision 410300C, Volume 09418, Folio 385 and Lot 2 on Plan of Subdivision 410300C, Volume 09418, Folio 385) in 1999. The Reserve is managed by members of the Batesford, Stonehaven and Fyansford Landcare group in conjunction with Golden Plains Shire Council. Areas of the Reserve fenced by adjacent private landholders are managed by the property owners. Two areas have been established to recognise the different management requirements and to provide clear delineation of responsibility for each area.

2.3.1. Conservation Area The Conservation Area provides for conservation of the natural environment. This area has important natural values including significant flora and fauna (Figure 3). Recreational access and uses are of low impact in keeping with the conservation objective. Management objectives • Maintain and where possible, improve the extent and quality of the remnant Plains Grassy

Woodland EVC in the Reserve • Provide for low impact public passive recreation which is not detrimental to the

conservation values of the Reserve in line with the objective above. • Control and/or eradicate pest flora and fauna within and adjacent to the Reserve.


2.3.2. Private Use Area The Private Use Areas may contain remnant native vegetation but provide for management of parts of the Reserve for the purposes of grazing or revegetation (Figure 3).


3. Natural Resource Management

3.1. Geology and Landforms The Reserve lies within the Victorian Volcanic Plain bioregion and owes its origin to lava flows from the north. The area was extensively covered by Holocene to Pliocene deposits of the Newer Volcanics and this is evidenced from outcroppings of basalt within the Reserve some of which have been quarried. The Reserve contains a natural drainage line known as Primrose Creek which runs into the Moorabool River. The creek was dammed above the Reserve and now rarely contains water.

3.2. Soils Soils within the reserve consist of red to grey cracking clays. Management actions • Maintain tracks and drainage to prevent erosion of soils.

3.3. Flora The Reserve contains remnants of the endangered Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC 55_61) Plains Grassy Woodland. The EVC in the Reserve is dominated by a few remaining mature River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis). Ground cover is diverse with open grassland of Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra) and various Spear (Stipa spp) and Wallaby grass (Austrodanthonia spp) species. Toowoomba Canary Grass (Phalaris aquatica) and other introduced grasses dominate some areas of the Reserve. Although none have been noted to date, the Reserve may also provide habitat for flora species listed as Vulnerable, Rare or Threatened (VROT). Extensive revegetation works with local indigenous species have resulted in significant additions to the flora of the Reserve. Management actions • Undertake a flora survey within the Reserve and update the flora species list • Map and report to the Department for Sustainability and Environment, VROT flora species

found within the Reserve.

3.4. Fauna Due to its small size and location in a relatively cleared landscape, very few fauna species apart from birds and reptiles have been seen in the Reserve. The large old trees provide important hollows for nesting birds and possums. Management Actions • Undertake a fauna survey in the reserve using the assistance of a Tertiary institution or

other body.

3.5. Fire The Reserve poses little fire risk to surrounding properties if well managed. Continued reduction in pasture species such as Toowoomba Canary Grass (P. aquatica) through spraying and revegetation will reduce fuel loads. Encouraging the presence of summer active native grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (T. triandra) provides green grass during summer and low fuel loads compared to introduced grasses and act to minimise the fire risk. Revegetation with local indigenous trees and shrubs also acts to shade out fuel heavy introduced grass species and reduce fuel loads.


Access for fire suppression equipment is via the internal access track in the eastern part of the Reserve and this needs regular maintenance to prevent it from becoming over grown. The western part of the Reserve has no vehicular access apart from that provided through adjacent properties. Regular burning of grassland areas of the Reserve would serve to reduce fuel loads, exclude introduced pasture species and encourage the recovery of native grasses. Management Actions • Undertake a burning program of grassland areas in consultation with the local CFA

brigade to encourage biodiversity and protect adjacent private assets. • Undertake a regular program of track maintenance and clearance to ensure access for

emergency vehicles in the eastern part of the Reserve.

3.6. Threatening Processes A range of threatening processes has been identified for the Reserve including: • Inappropriate fire regimes • Walking dogs off leads • Unrestricted vehicle access • Spread of weeds from adjoining properties • Grazing by rabbits

3.6.1. Pest Plants Pest plants are a threat to the conservation values of the Reserve by out competing and replacing native species. A variety of non-native woody, grassy and herbaceous species are present in the Reserve and control works are required to ensure that these species do not take over large areas. The Regionally Controlled Weeds, Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum), Sweet Briar (Rosa rubiginosa) and Serrated Tussock (Nassella trichotoma) are present in the Reserve and private use areas and require ongoing control to prevent their spread. The Restricted Weeds, Wild Garlic (Allium vineale) and Chilean Needle Grass (Nassella neesiana) are also in the Reserve. A number of Environmental Weeds are present in the Reserve and in private use areas including Blue Periwinkle (Vinca major) and Toowoomba Canary Grass (P. aquatica) which require control. Blanket Weed (Galenia pubescens) is also becoming problematic. At the Dog Rocks Road end of the Reserve a stand of White Poplar (Populus alba) is actively spreading via suckers and this spread needs to be controlled. There are several Monterey Pine (Pinus radiata) wildings and Sallow Wattle (Acacia longifolia) in the western end of the Reserve that require removal. Much good weed control work has been carried out by the Batesford, Stonehaven and Fyansford Landcare Group. Council undertakes an annual control program using contractors to target Regionally Controlled Weeds in the Reserve. As these are brought under control, efforts will be directed at other weed species. Management Actions • Monitor and prevent the establishment and spread of new pest plants in the Reserve • Undertake annual control of woody weeds, particularly Boxthorn (L. ferocissimum), with

the aim of eradicating these species from the reserves. • Undertake control of Serrated Tussock (N. trichotoma) annually. • Liaise with adjacent landholders to encourage the control of pest plants, particularly

Serrated Tussock (N. trichotoma). • Progressively remove the stand of White Poplars (P. alba) adjacent to Dog Rocks Road. • Remove Monterey Pine (Pinus radiata) wildings and Sallow Wattle (Acacia longifolia)

from the western end of the Reserve.


3.6.2. Pest Animals Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are present throughout the district, but their impact of on native fauna in the Reserve is unknown. Predation by foxes of native fauna is listed as a potentially threatening process under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Control of foxes through poisoning in the Reserve is problematic due to the close proximity of local residences and dogs. The use of 1080 within the confines of a township area is considered an unacceptable risk to domestic dogs and therefore is not an option for the control of foxes. Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are present throughout the Reserve and on private use areas, but the impact of their grazing on native flora in the Reserve is unknown but is likely to be detrimental. Grazing of native vegetation by rabbits is listed as a potentially threatening process under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. The Reserve has a few active rabbit warrens and control of rabbits should be a priority. Wandering pet and feral cats (Felis catus) have been seen in the Reserve and present a threat to small fauna, particularly native birds. It is a legislated requirement to register a domestic cat and the Golden Plains Shire Council is actively encouraging residents to register and control their domestic cats. European Brown Hares (Lepus capensis) have also been noted in the Reserve. Management actions • Control rabbits to minimise their grazing impact on the reserves through an annual

fumigation and where required, a warren ripping program. • Control cats through opportunistic cat trapping as required. • Liaise with adjacent landholders to encourage the control of pest animals, particularly

Rabbits (O. cuniculus).


4. Cultural Resource Management

4.1. Indigenous cultural heritage There are no recorded Aboriginal archaeological sites and no identified sites or features within the Reserve. Aboriginal places have been recorded in the vicinity of the Reserve and these include stone arrangements, scarred trees and artefact scatters. No survey for Aboriginal places within the Reserve has yet been undertaken. It is an offence to do an act that will harm Aboriginal cultural heritage or is likely to harm Aboriginal cultural heritage. Management of the Reserve in accordance with relevant legislation will respect the aspirations and rights of the Traditional Owners and the Local Aboriginal Community. Management Actions • Undertake a survey for Aboriginal places and areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage

sensitivity using the services of a qualified cultural heritage advisor. Review the Management Plan in light of any findings of the survey.

4.2. Post-settlement cultural heritage The Reserve has little existing evidence of post-settlement cultural heritage although Batesford has several sites of significance registered. The drainage line through the Reserve is named in honour of an original settler family, Primrose. No sites of significance are listed on the Heritage Victoria inventory. The private use area at the western end of the Reserve contains the remains of an old bluestone dam and spillway. This dam may have local heritage significance and an investigation of its significance and protection the structure should be undertaken. No action shall be taken by either Council or the private use landholder which will damage or interfere with the fabric of the dam, the dam stonework or spillway. Management Actions • Investigate nominating the bluestone dam for listing on the Victorian Heritage Register.


5. Land Use Management.

5.1. Land Tenure The Reserve consists of Lot 1 on Plan of Subdivision 410300C, Volume 09418, Folio 385 and Lot 2 on Plan of Subdivision 410300C, Volume 09418, Folio 385. It is bounded by Blackall Road, Dog Rocks Road and privately owned land (Figure 1). The Reserve is zoned as Low Density Residential (LDRZ) under the Golden Plains Shire Council Planning Scheme. The Reserve should be better zoned to reflect its current use and statue. The Reserve is not zoned under a Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO), Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) or Wildfire Management Overlay (WMO) within the Golden Plains Shire Council Planning Scheme. These overlays may provide additional protection for the Reserve. Management Actions • Investigate applying a Vegetation Protection Overlay and/or Environmental Significance

Overlay when the Golden Plains Planning Scheme is next reviewed. • Investigate rezoning the Reserve to a Public Conservation and Resource Zone when the

Golden Plains Planning Scheme is next reviewed.

5.2. Management The Reserve is managed by the Batesford, Stonehaven and Fyansford Landcare Group in conjunction with Golden Plains Shire. Areas fenced for private use are managed by the adjacent private landholder. Two areas have been established to recognise the different management requirements and to provide clear delineation of responsibility for each area.

5.2.1. Conservation Area The Conservation Area provides for conservation of the natural environment. This area has important natural values including significant flora and fauna. Recreational access and uses are of low impact in keeping with the conservation objective. Management objectives • Maintain and where possible, improve the extent and quality of the remnant Plains Grassy

Woodland EVC on the Reserve • Provide for low impact public passive recreation which is not detrimental to the

conservation values of the Reserve in line with the objective above. • Control and/or eradicate pest flora and fauna within and adjacent to the Reserve.

5.2.2. Private Use Area The Private Use Areas provide for management of parts of the Reserve for the purposes of grazing or revegetation (Figure 3). Some adjacent landholders have not elected to fence areas adjacent to their property but maintain these areas by mowing and removing weeds. This practice should be encouraged to continue but the adjacent landholder should comply with the same conditions as for those who have elected to fence their private use areas. The private use areas do not transfer to the new owner on change of ownership of an adjacent property. The vacating owner should remove any fencing and other infrastructure from private use areas prior to the completion of the sale of the property unless otherwise negotiated with Golden Plains Shire. The manager of a private use area is responsible for management of all pest plants and


animals and must take all reasonable steps to ensure the land is maintained in good condition, free of weeds, vermin and erosion. Maintenance of fences around private use areas remains the responsibility of the adjacent landholder. Fences must be maintained in a good state of repair to prevent stock wandering. Any revegetation of private use areas must be completed with local indigenous plant stock which will complement the revegetation works occurring in the Reserve. Private use areas must not be used for the dumping of rubbish or as storage areas for plant, equipment or materials. No buildings or other structures are to be erected in private use areas. Council Officers retain the right to enter private use areas for the purposes of carrying out inspections or other tasks without the need to contact the owner. Private use areas surrendered to Council either during sale of the adjacent property or voluntarily will be incorporated into the Conservation Area and not returned to private use. Management actions • Clarify private land use areas and responsibilities through written agreement between the

landholder and Golden Plains Shire.

5.2.3. Tracks There is a single grassed track running between Blackall Road and Dog Rocks Road in the eastern part of the Reserve. This has been maintained by local residents. This track provides essential access for the public and for management of the Reserve. There are no access tracks in the western part of the Reserve. The grassed track was maintained by the management group and local residents and this role has now been incorporated into the work program for Golden Plains Shire parks and gardens maintenance staff. Council will mow the track 2-3 times per year with the timing determined by other roadside mowing tasks in the Batesford area. Any additional mowing will continue to be carried out by volunteers. No formal graded or formed track needs to be formed within the Reserve and maintenance of the existing grassed track should allow sufficient access for most uses. Management of fire in the Reserve requires that the access tracks are clear and safe for fire fighters and their vehicles. Access and egress from the narrow creek crossing halfway down the eastern part of the Reserve is problematic for fire management vehicles. Some lopping of overhanging branches will be required to maintain fire vehicle access. Fire access through the western part of the Reserve is through adjacent properties. Development of a fire access track through this area is not feasible. Interest has been expressed in developing a pedestrian walking track in the western part of the Reserve. This would require relocation of the fencing for one or more of the private use areas and careful consideration of the route to ensure ease of access and public safety. It is unlikely the whole route could be maintained as a mown path due to the uneven and rocky terrain and alternative methods of establishing and maintaining the track may need to be considered. Management Actions • Maintain the track in the eastern part of the Reserve as a grassed surface to ensure

minimal channelling and soil erosion and prevent the spread of weeds. • Investigate improved access and egress for fire vehicles from the narrow creek crossing

halfway down the eastern part of the Reserve. • Undertake an annual program of track maintenance and clearance to ensure access for


fire vehicles • Investigate and; if feasible, develop a walking track in the western part of the Reserve • Install bollards at either end of the track to prevent unauthorised vehicle access if this

becomes problematic

5.2.4. Pedestrian Access Pedestrian access is via the grassed access track in the eastern part of the Reserve although pedestrians are free to walk anywhere within the Reserve. The addition of a pedestrian track in the western part of the Reserve would complement existing access.

5.2.5. Fencing The Reserve is fenced on all boundaries to varying levels of repair. The fences serve to define private land boundaries and prevent stock access. Areas set aside for private use have been fenced by the responsible landholder and these fences are of varying quality. Responsibility for the maintenance of fences around private use areas lies with the adjacent landholder. Fences must be maintained to ensure stock do not wander into the Reserve. Fences around private use areas surrendered to Council either during sale of the adjacent property or voluntarily will be removed and the area incorporated into the Conservation Zone. Responsibility for the removal lies with the landholder responsible for the private use area. Management Actions • Maintain the existing fences between private landholders and the Reserve in a good state

of repair.

5.2.6. Signage There is currently no signage installed at the Reserve. Simple signs need to be erected at the entrances to the Reserve to inform the community of the Reserves presence and management. The use of negative icons (e.g. no motorbikes, no fires) on the signs will be avoided. Management Actions • Install signage at entrances to the Reserve.

5.2.7. Interpretation There is currently little need for interpretive signage in the Reserve. If use of the Reserve increases, the installation of interpretative signs should be considered, highlighting the flora, fauna and significance of the Reserve. Education material and signs will encourage a greater understanding of the value of the Reserve and better inform users of management aims and actions. Management Actions • Develop and install interpretive signs identifying the primary ecosystem type and values.

5.2.8. Revegetation Extensive revegetation with local indigenous species has already been done by the Batesford, Stonehaven and Fyansford Landcare Group. Further areas of the Reserve are suitable for continuing this good work and will enhance the existing habitat value of the Reserve. The native grassland areas within the Reserve should be protected and excluded from any revegetation works unless these are done with grassland species. Community groups such as the local Primary School are often seeking revegetation sites and the Reserve is suitable for these purposes.


All revegetation works must be undertaken with the approval of and under the supervision of the Batesford, Stonehaven and Fyansford Landcare Group. Revegetation must be with locally sourced indigenous species matched to the EVC of the Reserve. Revegetation of private use areas must be with locally sourced indigenous species matched to the EVC of the Reserve.


6. Authorised uses

6.1. Vehicle access Vehicle access to the Reserve is possible along the grassed access track off Blackall Road and Dog Rocks Road. Vehicle access except for management purposes (e.g. maintenance, wildfire control) is not permitted.

6.2. Private Use Areas of the Reserve have been set aside through agreement between the adjacent landholder and Golden Plains Shire. The intent of the agreements was to provide adjacent landholders with additional land for private use and to minimise the amount of the Reserve that needed to be managed by Council. No formal written agreement or lease was entered into between the Shire and adjacent landholders which has led to some confusion and concern with changes in land ownership and lack of control of weeds. Generally the private use areas have been well managed. However, some fences are in need of repair and some areas require additional effort at weed control. Management actions • Clarify private land use areas and responsibilities through written agreement between the

landholder and Golden Plains Shire.

6.3. Firewood Collection The collection of firewood for personal or commercial use is not permitted in the Reserve. If the collection of firewood becomes problematic, appropriate signage should be installed.

6.4. Rubbish Dumping The dumping of rubbish in the Reserve is not permitted. If the dumping of rubbish becomes problematic, appropriate signage should be installed.

6.5. Recreation Passive recreation in the form of walking, cycling and horse riding and enjoyment of the natural heritage of the Reserve are common uses. Some of these uses have the potential to adversely impact on the natural values of the Reserve and must be managed. It is important to encourage appropriate recreational use to engender a sense of public ownership and pride that will lead to support of the management aims for the Reserve.

6.5.1. Horse Riding Horse riders occasionally use the Reserve for casual riding. The lack of formed and hardened tracks combined with the steep terrain increases the risk of soil damage and erosion occurring in areas accessed by horses. Horses have the potential to damage track surfaces and introduce weeds through their droppings. Horse riding is permitted on the grassed track through the Reserve. Management actions • Monitor the effect of horses on the grassed track and the spread of weeds from horse

droppings.

6.5.2. Motorbike riding Motorbikes are not permitted in the Reserve.


6.5.3. Walking Walking for fitness or recreation is a common use and should be encouraged to develop a community appreciation of the natural values of the Reserve. Walkers should be encouraged to use existing tracks and these should be maintained to ensure walker safety. The development of signed nature walks highlighting particular vegetation types, plants or features can educate and stimulate interest in natural history and should be considered. Management actions • Develop a nature trail or similar using existing walking tracks to educate and stimulate

and interest in the Reserve.

6.5.4. Cycling Cycling as a recreational activity is sometimes undertaken in the Reserve but should be restricted to existing formed tracks. The development of challenging mountain or BMX type tracks should be discouraged as these have the potential to create erosion and damage vegetation.

6.5.5. Dogs and Cats Many walkers use the Reserve to walk their dogs and preventing this use would result in a reduction in community support for the Reserve Committee of Management. Uncontrolled dogs have the potential to disturb of even kill native wildlife and may annoy other Reserve users. Ideally, dogs in the Conservation Area of the Reserve should be leashed but it is not possible to police such an action. In order to create ownership of the issue and increase compliance, any signage installed should state “Dogs under effective control at all times”. Cats are not permitted in the Reserve.

6.5.6. Camping No sites exist for the provision of camping and the development of camp sites would severely impact on the ecological values of the Reserve therefore, camping is not permitted in the Reserve. If camping is found to be occurring in the Reserve, appropriate signage should be installed.

6.5.7. Fires Recreational fires (e.g. camp fires) present a risk of fire escape and impact on the ecological value of the Reserve through firewood collection therefore fires are not permitted in the Reserve. If fires are being lit in the Reserve, appropriate signage should be installed.

6.5.8. Education The Reserve as a significant local area of remnant vegetation could provide educational opportunities for local school children. Management Actions • Encourage use of the Reserve by the local Primary School for educational purposes.


6.5.9. Research The Reserve is an important remnant of Plains Grassy Woodland and as such may be of interest for research into the appropriate management of the flora and fauna of this ecosystem type. All research projects on flora and fauna operate under a permit system managed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Opportunities exist for the education of local school children and the community through participation in research in the Reserve. Appropriate research, minimising impacts on the flora and fauna of the Reserve should be permitted. Management actions • Allow appropriate research into the flora and fauna of the Reserve.


7. Implementation Management Action Priority

Timeframe

Responsibility

(High, Medium or Low) (ongoing, annually, as required or date e.g.

December 2009)

(Committee of Management, Golden Plains Shire, DSE)

Soils Maintain tracks and drainage to prevent erosion of soils. High Ongoing Golden Plains

Shire

Flora Map and report to the Department for Sustainability and Environment, VROT flora species found within the Reserve.

High Ongoing CoM

Undertake a flora survey within the Reserve and update the flora species list

High December 2010 CoM

Fauna Undertake a fauna survey in the reserve using the assistance of a Tertiary institution or other body. Medium Every 5

years CoM

Fire Undertake a burning program of grassland areas in consultation with the local CFA brigade to encourage biodiversity and protect adjacent private assets.

High Ongoing Golden Plains Shire & CoM

Undertake a regular program of track maintenance and clearance to ensure access for emergency vehicles in the eastern part of the Reserve.


Pest Plants Monitor and prevent the establishment and spread of new pest plants in the Reserve High Ongoing CoM

Undertake annual control of woody weeds, particularly Boxthorn (L. ferocissimum), with the aim of eradicating these species from the reserves.

Undertake control of Serrated Tussock (N. trichotoma) annually.


Liaise with adjacent landholders to encourage the control of pest plants, particularly Serrated Tussock (N. trichotoma).

High Ongoing Golden Plains Shire

Progressively remove the stand of White Poplars (P. alba) adjacent to Dog Rocks Road. Medium Ongoing Golden Plains

Shire Remove Monterey Pine (Pinus radiata) wildings and Sallow Wattle (Acacia longifolia) from the western end of the Reserve

Medium December 2009

Golden Plains Shire

Pest Animals Control rabbits to minimise their grazing impact on the reserves through an annual fumigation and where required, a warren ripping program.


Control cats through opportunistic cat trapping as required. Low Ongoing CoM

Liaise with adjacent landholders to encourage the control of pest animals, particularly Rabbits (O. cuniculus).



Indigenous cultural heritage Undertake a survey for Aboriginal places and areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage sensitivity using the services of a qualified cultural heritage advisor. Review the Management Plan in light of any findings of the survey.

Low December 2010 CoM

Post settlement cultural heritage Investigate nominating the bluestone dam for listing on the Victorian Heritage Register Low December

2010 CoM

Land Tenure Investigate applying a Vegetation Protection Overlay and/or Environmental Significance Overlay when the Golden Plains Planning Scheme is next reviewed.

Low Next review of Planning Scheme

Golden Plains Shire

Investigate rezoning the Reserve to a Public Conservation and Resource Zone when the Golden Plains Planning Scheme is next reviewed.

Medium Next review of Planning Scheme

Golden Plains Shire

Private Use Area Clarify private land use areas and responsibilities through written agreement between the landholder and Golden Plains Shire.

High December 2010

Golden Plains Shire

Tracks Maintain the track in the eastern part of the Reserve as a grassed surface to ensure minimal channelling and soil erosion and prevent the spread of weeds.


Investigate improved access and egress for fire vehicles from the narrow creek crossing halfway down the eastern part of the Reserve.

High December 2009

Golden Plains Shire & CoM

Investigate and; if feasible, develop a walking track in the western part of the Reserve Medium December

2010 Golden Plains Shire & CoM

Install bollards at either end of the track to prevent unauthorised vehicle access if this becomes problematic

Low As required Golden Plains Shire

Fencing Maintain the existing fences between private landholders and the Reserve in a good state of repair.

Medium Ongoing Golden Plains Shire & landholders

Signage Install signage at entrances to the Reserve. High December

2009 Golden Plains Shire & CoM

Interpretation Develop and install interpretive signs identifying the primary ecosystem type and values Low As required Golden Plains

Shire & CoM

Horse riding Monitor the effect of horses on the grassed tracked and the spread of weeds from horse droppings. Medium Ongoing CoM

Walking Develop a nature trail or similar using existing walking tracks to educate and stimulate and interest in the Reserve.

Low As required Golden Plains Shire & CoM


Education Encourage use of the Reserve by the local Primary School for educational purposes. Medium Ongoing CoM

Research Allow appropriate research into the flora and fauna of the Reserve. Low Ongoing CoM


8. References DSE (2004) EVC/Bioregion Benchmark for Vegetation Quality Assessment, Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion, Plains Grassy Woodland, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. DSE (2007) Victorian Volcanic Plains, retrieved April 2007 from http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/dse/nrence.nsf/LinkView/9FC783CB1E249AFDCA256EE70008F58C1C26CB3A9ABC1C2FCA256EE700148D0B LCC (1982) Ballarat Study Area Final Recommendations, Land Conservation Council, Melbourne.


9. Appendix 1 – Flora Species List for the Batesford Area Just a Minute - Victorian Plants

MONOCOTYLEDONS Alliaceae * Allium vineale Crow Garlic Juncaceae * Juncus acutus subsp. acutus Sharp Rush Juncaginaceae Triglochin striata Streaked Arrowgrass Poaceae Austrostipa stuposa Quizzical Spear-grass Cynodon dactylon Couch Distichlis distichophylla Australian Salt-grass * Hordeum marinum Sea Barley-grass f E v Lachnagrostis adamsonii Adamson's Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis Common Blown-grass * Nassella neesiana Chilean Needle-grass * Nassella trichotoma Serrated Tussock * Parapholis strigosa Slender Barb-grass * Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard-grass * Puccinellia fasciculata Borrer's Saltmarsh-grass Puccinellia stricta var. perlaxa Plains Saltmarsh-grass

DICOTYLEDONS Asteraceae * Cotula coronopifolia Water Buttons Fabaceae * Ulex europaeus Gorse Mimosaceae * Acacia baileyana Cootamundra Wattle Plantaginaceae * Plantago coronopus Buck's-horn Plantain Rosaceae * Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. Blackberry Data From: Flora Information System, Biodiversity and Natural Resources, DSE - May 2005 - © Viridans Biological Databases


10. Appendix 2 – Fauna Species List for the Batesford area Just a Minute - Victorian Animals

MAMMALS Canidae * Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Peramelidae f E c Eastern Barred Bandicoot Perameles gunnii Phascolarctidae Koala Phascolarctos cinereus

BIRDS Accipitridae Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus v Grey Goshawk Accipiter novaehollandiae Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides Swamp Harrier Circus approximans Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus Alaudidae * Skylark Alauda arvensis Anatidae Grey Teal Anas gracilis Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa Ardeidae Cattle Egret Ardea ibis f v Great Egret Ardea alba White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae Artamidae Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen White-browed Woodswallow Artamus superciliosus Cacatuidae Galah Cacatua roseicapilla Little Corella Cacatua sanguinea Long-billed Corella Cacatua tenuirostris Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus Campephagidae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae Charadriidae Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles Columbidae Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera * Spotted Turtle-Dove Streptopelia chinensis Corvidae Australian Raven Corvus coronoides Little Raven Corvus mellori Cuculidae Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo Chrysococcyx basalis Pallid Cuckoo Cuculus pallidus Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Chrysococcyx lucidus Dicruridae Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys Falconidae Australian Hobby Falco longipennis Brown Falcon Falco berigora Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides Fringillidae * European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis * European Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Hirundinidae Fairy Martin Hirundo ariel Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena Maluridae Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus Meliphagidae


New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater Acanthagenys rufogularis White-naped Honeyeater Melithreptus lunatus White-plumed Honeyeater Lichenostomus penicillatus Meropidae Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus Motacillidae Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae Muscicapidae * Common Blackbird Turdus merula Pachycephalidae Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris Pardalotidae Brown Thornbill Acanthiza pusilla Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus Striated Thornbill Acanthiza lineata White-browed Scrubwren Sericornis frontalis Yellow Thornbill Acanthiza nana Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Passeridae * House Sparrow Passer domesticus Red-browed Finch Neochmia temporalis Pelecanidae Australian Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus Phasianidae Stubble Quail Coturnix pectoralis Podargidae Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides Podicipedidae Australasian Grebe Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Psittacidae Eastern Rosella Platycercus eximius Purple-crowned Lorikeet Glossopsitta porphyrocephala Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus Rallidae f v Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla Dusky Moorhen Gallinula tenebrosa Strigidae Southern Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae Sturnidae * Common Myna Acridotheres tristis * Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris Sylviidae Clamorous Reed Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus Golden-headed Cisticola Cisticola exilis Threskiornithidae Australian White Ibis Threskiornis molucca Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis Zosteropidae Silvereye Zosterops lateralis


11. Appendix 3 – Revegetation species This list of species has been drawn from the Moorabool River Landcare Restoration Project and based on survey of the Moorabool River environs and the nearby Lilydale House private sanctuary. Many of the species listed could be applied within Red Gum Reserve.Latin name Acacia dealbata Acacia implexa Acacia meamsii Acacia melanoxylon Acacia paradoxa Acaena ovina Aceana novae-zealandiae Allocasuarina verticillata Astroloma humifusum Banksia marginata Bolboschoenus caldiwell Bothriochloa macra Bursaria spinosa Callistemon sibeiri Callitris glaucophylla Carex sp. Carpobrutus rosii Cassytha melantha Chloris truncata Clematis microflilia Convolvulus erubescens Correa glabra ssp. Danthonia sp. Dianella revoluta Dichondra repens Dodonea viscosa Einadia nutans Eleocharis acuta Enchylaena tomentosa Erianthus ravennae Eucalyptus camaldulensis Eucalyptus leucoxylon Eucalyptus viminalis Euchiton sphaericus Exocarpus cupressiformis Exocarpus strictus Goodenia ovata Hymenanthera dentata Kunzea ericoides Lomandra filiformis Lomandra longifolia Micolena stipoides Mimulus ringens Myoporum insulare Oxalis perennans Phragmites australias Poa labillardieri Pteridium esculentum Ptilotus macrocephalus Rubus parviflorus Solanum laciniatum Stipa sp. Themeda triandra Veronica gracilis

Common name Silver Wattle Lightwood Black Wattle Blackwood Hedge Wattle Sheeps Burr Bidgee Widgee Drooping Sheoak Cranberry Heath Silver Banksia Sea Club Rush Redleg Grass Sweet Bursaria River Bottlebrush White Cypress-Pine Sedge Pigface, Karkalla Dodder Laurel Windmill Grass, Umbrella Grass Small Leaved Clematis Pink Bindweed Rock Correa Wallaby Grass Black Anther Flax-lily Kidney Weed Hop Bush Nodding Saltbush Common Spike-rush Ruby Saltbush Plume Grass River-Red Gum + ssp. Yellow Gum Manna Gum Annual Cudweed Cherry Ballart Pale Ballart Hop Goodenia Tree Violet Burgan Wattle Mat-rush Spiny Mat-Rush Weeping Grass Monkey Flower Common Myoporum Grassland Wood-sorrel Common Reed Common Tussock Grass Austral Bracken Featherhead Native Raspberry Kangaroo Apple Spear Grass Kangaroo Grass Slender Speedwell

Documents

Red Gum Reserve Management Plan - Golden Plains Shire · 2018-10-10 · Red Gum Reserve Page 2 of 22 Management Plan 2. Background and Context 2.1. Values and Significance The reserve