Reconciliation in the GrasslandsRe-introducing Burning to Themeda Grass Headland EEC's.

Themeda Grassland on Seacliffs and Coastal Headlands EEC

Geographically broad

Dominated by Themeda with a high diversity of native herbs.

Generally accepted that they came into existence from Indigenous burning practices.

Key threats

Shrub invasion at Goalen head

Grassland becomes more Poa dominated with grazing pressure

Why not slash it?

Three headlands located in Dalmeny

PO

SS

UM

PL

AC

E

DA

LME

NY

DR

IVE

LO

CR

OW

N

DUESBURYS ROAD

COASTAL COURT

LO CROWN

BA

RK

AL

A S

TR

EE

T

Kianga Beach Headland

Duesburys Beach Headland

Duesburys Point Headland

Decision to burn

Based on botanical evidence

Indigenous evidence

Historical accounts

Opportunity

Timing of burn

Slashers were called off

Baseline data collected

August burns recommended

Data collection

RecoveryHow did the grassland bounce back after the initial burn?

12 August 2013

26 August 2013

2 September 2013

13 November 2013

8 August 2014

27 April 2015

Aesthetic health obvious

Botanical analysisObservations from the post burn botanical analysis

Annual exotic grasses reduced considerably

Exotic perennial grasses knocked back in biomass

Appearance of Hermathria uncinata

Appearance of Polygala japonica

Dead Banksia seedlings

Early Days

Project is still new

Anticipate more positive outcomes

Acknowledgements

Greg Watts, NPWS

Jackie Miles, Consultant Botanist

NSW Environmental Trust

Aboriginal Community

NSW Rural Fire Service