NQ Dry Tropics Beach Scrub BioCondition Report (Site specific extract)

December 2016

Site – Yabulu

Contents: Site Description

2

On-ground Works Prioritisation

6

Discussion

6

Recommendations

7

Weeds on Site

8

Site Specific Actions

9

Treatment Recommendations

10

S05 Yabulu 02 – BioCondition Assessment Results.

Biocondition Assessment S05 Yabulu 02 – Landscape view and aerial view.

S05 Yabulu 02 – view north, centre of plot.

S05 Yabulu 02 – view east, centre of plot.

S05 Yabulu 02 – view south, centre of plot. S05 Yabulu 02 – view west, centre of plot. Attributes Maximum Score Site Score Site-based condition Large Trees 15 15 attributes. Tree Canopy Height 5 5 Recruitment of Canopy Species 5 5 Tree Canopy Cover 5 5 Shrub Cover 5 3 Coarse Woody Debris 5 5 Native Plant Species Richness 20 10 Non-native Plant Cover 10 10 Native Perennial Grass Cover 5 0 Litter Cover 5 5 Landscape attributes Size of Patch 10 10 (fragmented) Context 5 5 Connection 5 5 Total: 100 83 BioCondition Class: 1 Site Specific Notes: Plot moved north of original centre point to avoid old hut and running corners of plot out of survey polygon.

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S05 Yabulu 02 – Site Survey and Management Notes Attending

C. Kahler and J. Rains

Survey Date

23/9/2016

Tenure

Freehold

Site Location

0m E 458499

50m E 458462

Regional Ecosystem:

(GMA, GDA94)

0m N 7881231

50m N 7881272

11.2.3

General Description

Semi-evergreen vine thicket, 12m in height. On crests of low beach dunes, well distanced from shoreline and immediate maritime influences; sandy soil with little cohesion.

Size of Polygon

21.7ha

Size of Patch

2016ha

Connectivity

79.7% (Remnant), 20.4% (Regrowth)

Context

77.1% (Remnant), 0.7% (Regrowth)

Canopy Height

Canopy: 12m Sub-canopy: not recorded / absent.

Canopy Species

EDL Species: Ganophyllum falcatum, Litsea glutinosa, Millettia pinnata, Mimusops elengi and Pleiogynium timorense. Sub-dominant: EDL species as well as Canarium australianum var. australianum, Aidia racemosa, Corymbia tessellaris, Celtis paniculata, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Drypetes deplanchei and Sterculia quadrifida.

Shrub Species

Antidesma parvifolium, Capparis lucida, Flueggea leucopyrus, Murraya ovatifoliolata and Sarcostemma viminale subsp. brunonianum.

Vines

Jasminum simplicifolium subsp. australiense, Jasminum didymum, Alyxia spicata, Trophis scandens and Deeringia amaranthoides.

Weeds

Annona sp.*, Abrus precatorius, Ageratum houstonianum*, Delonix regia*, Megathyrsus maximus*, Momordica charantia*, Passiflora foetida*, Passiflora suberosa*, Rivina humilis*, Solanum seaforthianum* and Triumfetta rhomboidea*.

General condition notes

In good condition. Tall canopy and open understorey indicate little in the way of recent impacts from cyclones. Although a range of weeds is present, overall cover is low. The poor condition (apparent mass tree death) of vegetation in the swale or creek to the south is a concern.

Management Issues

Tree death in nearby swale. Weeds. Rubbish. Clearing.

Suggested Actions

Tree death: if possible determine cause and whether; impacts are likely to be on-going; extent of impacted area likely to increase; further damage is preventable. Weeds: control vine weeds including Momordica charantia*, Passiflora foetida*, Passiflora suberosa* and Solanum seaforthianum*. Check identity of Annona sp.* (pond apple has been found in the area). Clearing: beach scrub has been lost from refinery land at Sandfly Creek. The future of this parcel of land is uncertain. If possible flag the importance of the beach scrub with current owners or managers and ask for it to be included on maps, registers, land titles or similar as a significant area.

Action Prioritisation Score

5/13

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Table 1 S05 Yabulu 02 Flora and Fauna Species Lists Family Scientific Name

Common Name

Life Form

Plant Species Fabaceae

Abrus precatorius

crab's eye

V

Asteraceae

Ageratum houstonianum*

blue billy goat

F

Rubiaceae

Aidia racemosa

Archer cherry

T

Sapindaceae

Alectryon connatus

grey bird's eye

T

Rhamnaceae

Alphitonia excelsa

soap tree

T

Apocynaceae

Alyxia spicata

chain fruit

V

Poaceae

Ancistrachne uncinulata

hookey grass

G

custard apple / sugar Annonaceae

Annona sp.*

apple / pond apple

T

Phyllanthaceae

Antidesma parvifolium

antidesma

S

Canarium australianum var. Burseraceae

australianum

mango bark

T

Capparaceae

Capparis lucida

coast caper

S

Ulmaceae

Celtis paniculata

native celtis

T

Myrtaceae

Corymbia tessellaris

Moreton Bay ash

T

Sapindaceae

Cupaniopsis anacardioides

tuckeroo

T

Amaranthaceae

Deeringia amaranthoides

shrubby deeringia

V

Caesalpiniaceae

Delonix regia*

poinciana

T

Ebenaceae

Diospyros geminata

grey ebony

T

Putranjivaceae

Drypetes deplanchei

yellow boxwood

T

Santalaceae

Exocarpos latifolius

beach cherry

T

Moraceae

Ficus opposita

a sandpaper fig

T

Phyllanthaceae

Flueggea leucopyrus

white currant

S

Sapindaceae

Ganophyllum falcatum

scaly bark ash

EDL

Rutaceae

Geijera salicifolia

wilga

T

Oleaceae

Jasminum didymum

native jasmine

V

V

Jasminum simplicifolium subsp. Oleaceae

australiense

native jasmine

Lauraceae

Litsea glutinosa

slippery leaf

EDL

Euphorbiaceae

Macaranga tanarius

macaranga

T

Poaceae

Megathyrsus maximus*

Guinea grass

G

Fabaceae

Millettia pinnata

pongamia

EDL

Sapotaceae

Mimusops elengi

red condoo

EDL

Cucurbitaceae

Momordica charantia*

Balsam pear

V

Rutaceae

Murraya ovatifoliolata

murraya

S

Passifloraceae

Passiflora foetida*

stinking passionfruit

V

Passifloraceae

Passiflora suberosa*

corky passionvine

V

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Euphorbiaceae

Pedilanthus tithymaloides subsp. smallii*

devil's backbone

F

Anacardiaceae

Pleiogynium timorense

Burdekin plum

EDL

Annonaceae

Polyalthia nitidissima

canary beach

T

Petiveriaceae

Rivina humilis*

coral berry

F

Sarcostemma viminale subsp. Apocynaceae

brunonianum

bandaid bush

S

Solanaceae

Solanum seaforthianum*

Brazillian nightshade

V

Sterculiaceae

Sterculia quadrifida

peanut tree

T

Ulmaceae

Trema tomentosa

poison peach

T

Sparrmanniaceae

Triumfetta rhomboidea*

Chinese bur

F

Moraceae

Trophis scandens

burny vine

V

Family

Scientific Name

Common Name

Class

Fauna Species PHASIANIDAE

Pavo cristatus

Indian peafowl

AVES

Table Note: Life Form categories are as follows: E= epiphyte, F= forb, S- shrub, T= tree, V= vine, EDL= species forms part of the canopy or the Ecologically Dominant Layer, #= species in patch but outside plot, * = introduced/weed. Fauna observations were opportunistic only.

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Recommended Prioritisation of Works Site prioritisation scores are given below in Table 2 (extracted) with sites ranked by site number. Table 3 (extracted) lists the sites by on-ground works prioritisation score and includes BioCondition scores and classes. Table 2: On-Ground Works Prioritisation Scores for each Site – Extract Site Attribute and score

S05 Yabulu 02

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Total

0

0

2

0

0

1

1

0

1

5

Notes: Landholder not known to be actively maintaining area. Landholder unlikely to grant free access although site is physically accessible. There is no known history of landholder success and extent will not increase. Threatening processes can be addressed and improvement of condition is likely. Table Note: scores shown are from a maximum total of 13.

BioCondition scores were calculated from values collected onto field sheets during field survey and are given on individual site sheets in the previous section. The BioCondition scores along with each site’s works prioritisation score are given in the following tables. Table 3: Sites Ranked by On-Ground Prioritisation Score – Extract Site Works BioCondition Prioritisation Score Score S05 Yabulu 2 5 90.0%

BioCondition Class 1

Previous BioCondition Score (Class) n/a

Note: ‘Previous BioCondition Score’ derived from Woodcock (2008a).

Discussion Condition The beach scrubs surveyed are all in good condition. Those managed by public authorities appeared to be in the best condition. Although it is largely impossible to compare BioCondition scores between this survey event and previous ones, a few differences can be detected through checking text used in describing the sites during 2008 survey. The chief changes in condition relate to cyclone damage sustained in the intervening period. Cyclone Yasi apparently impacted the northern sites. Otherwise, management issues for re-surveyed sites seem to have largely remained as they were during the first survey. It seems as though previous investment has been worthwhile with sites treated previously for weeds or other threats returning high BioCondition scores – the prior investment has paid off in terms of resilience and in terms of current landholders’ awareness of the value of these ecosystems.

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Threats Results of the on-ground BioCondition survey and scoring are given in a site-by-site report (following section) including the BioCondition score break-down, site photos, a small map showing the traversed area within patch, notes on condition and proposed actions as well as a plant species list and a list of any fauna incidentally sighted during the survey. Management issues and suggested actions are also given. A summary of threats to beach scrubs at each site is given in Table 4 (extracted).

Threat

S05 Yabulu 2

Table 4: Summary of Threats by Site – Extract

Coastal development

x

Tourism and vectors Agriculture Mining Climate change Weed invasion

x

Fire Feral animals Exotic pathogens Other natural disturbances

The strongest influences on BioCondition scores appear to be natural disturbances (salt water inundation, strong salt-laden winds, cyclones) although the pressure that represents single greatest potential threat, likely to cause catastrophic and irreversible change is the ever-present likelihood of coastal development. Invasion by transformer weeds and fire are the next most significant onsite threats overall (see Table 4). Weeds, along with inappropriate fire use could severely damage remaining areas. Beach scrub transformer weeds (weeds that can force a significant and perhaps irreversible change in structure and floristics) include rubber vine (Cryptostegia grandiflora*), Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus*) (and other vigorous introduced grasses), lantana (Lantana camara*) and, if infestations are dense enough, corky passion vine (Passiflora suberosa*). Myrtle rust was seen at 2 sites and infected plants were notably lacking in vigour.

Recommendations or Summary Many of the sites surveyed are in good condition (BioCondition class of 1 or 2). Protect these healthier sites from threatening processes, most especially, clearing. The most catastrophic impact on these healthy sites will come from human interaction – clearing for coastal development. High public awareness of their values and TEC listing is most likely the best protection they can be given against this threat. In order to check that beach scrub communities of the NQ Dry Tropics NRM region are maintaining or improving condition it is recommended that this process be repeated in around five to ten years’ time. It should not be necessary to repeat BioCondition immediately following any on-ground works as a way of measuring their success, rather, specific monitoring methods should be devised or used to detect the success or otherwise of any remediation works planned. Wherever it is available, use more current information, particularly on community or landholder willingness to participate, so as to improve the chances of remediation work success. Where it is not at hand, actively seek information from the community to better inform planning and improve the results of on-ground works. Additionally, maintain some planning flexibility so as to take advantage of opportunities as they arise. RDB40 Action Plan Yabulu December 2016

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Weeds and feral animals identified on site include, but are not limited to: Table 5: Prioritised Weeds Priority Order

Scientific Name

Common Name

Life Form

Plant Species custard apple / sugar

1 (Very High)

Annona sp.*

apple / pond apple

T

2 (High)

Delonix regia*

poinciana

T

2 (High)

Megathyrsus maximus*

Guinea grass

G

2 (High)

Momordica charantia*

Balsam pear

V

2 (High)

Passiflora foetida*

stinking passionfruit

V

2 (High)

Passiflora suberosa*

corky passionvine

V

3 (Moderate)

Ageratum houstonianum*

blue billy goat

F

3 (Moderate)

Pedilanthus tithymaloides subsp. smallii*

devil's backbone

F

3 (Moderate)

Rivina humilis*

coral berry

F

3 (Moderate)

Solanum seaforthianum*

Brazillian nightshade

V

3 (Moderate)

Triumfetta rhomboidea*

Chinese burr

F

Priority Order

Scientific Name

Common Name

Class

Fauna Species

3 (Moderate)

Pavo cristatus

Indian peafowl

AVES

Table Note: Life Form categories are as follows: E= epiphyte, F= forb, S- shrub, T= tree, V= vine.

Note: Indian peafowl are a local pest animal. More information can be obtained through Townsville City Council. https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/4507/2014-Peafowl-2014.pdf

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Site Specific Actions S05 Yabulu Initial Works

Quarter 4 maintenance

Quarter 5 maintenance

Quarter 6 maintenance

Quarter 7 maintenance

Quarter 8 maintenance

Jan-Mar 2017

Apr – Jun 2017

Jul – Sep 2017

Oct – Dec 2017

Jan – Mar 2018

Apr – Jun 2018

 Time required o 3 days (estimate)  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Weed works o Grass control on

 Time required o 1 day  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Check status of

 Time required o 1 day  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Check status of

 Time required o 1 day  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Check status of

 Time required o 1 day  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Check status of

 Time required o 1 day  Rubbish clean up o Litter, bottles etc  Check status of

previously treated

previously treated

previously treated

previously treated

previously treated

perimeter (guinea

weeds, retreat if

weeds, retreat if

weeds, retreat if

weeds, retreat if

weeds, retreat if

grass)

needed

needed

needed

needed

needed

o Pond apple, and

 Weed works

 Weed works

 Weed works

 Weed works

 Weed works

other woody

o Grasses

o Grasses

o Grasses

o Grasses

o Grasses

weeds

o Woody weeds

o Woody weeds

o Woody weeds

o Woody weeds

o Woody weeds

o Vines

o Vines

o Vines

o Vines

o Vines

o Vines

o Herbaceous

o Others as time

o Others as time

o Others as time

o Others as time

o Others as time

weeds

permits

permits

permits

permits

permits

o Others as time permits

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Treatment Recommendations All of this information is advisory in nature and not legally binding; the landholder should ensure they follow all governmental and safety regulations when using any weed control methods. Some of these plants are toxic to humans and all care should be taken during their control. Pond Apple This Weed of National Significance is mostly found in wetland areas. Control usually needs to be done in the dry season. Control as per the Fact Sheet. http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/plants/weeds-pest-animalsants/weeds/a-z-listing-of-weeds/photo-guide-toweeds/pond-apple http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/001 5/76002/IPA-Pond-Apple-PP58.pdf http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Annona_glabra.htm

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Poinciana This tree is regarded as a significant weed in many areas of Australia, as a potential environmental weed or ‘sleeper’ weed. This tree can be controlled through the basal bark application of Access™ and diesel, applied to a trunk height of at least 1m. Ensure all crevices in the bark are covered with chemical. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Delonix_regia.htm http://www.weeds.org.au/cgibin/weedident.cgi?tpl=plant.tpl&ibra=all&card=E40

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Guinea Grass Guinea grass can be controlled in small outbreaks by hand-pulling or digging out the plants. Larger infestation will need to be brush cut back and clumps sprayed with glyphosate or grass-specific herbicide. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Megathyrsus_maximus_var. _maximus.htm http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/000 6/67398/IPA-Guinea-Grass-PP82.pdf

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Balsam Pear This vine can be handpulled in small outbreaks. Alternatively, consult the Fact Sheet for Best Practice Management. http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/001 1/69491/IPA-Balsam-Pear-PP134.pdf https://www.jcu.edu.au/discover-nature-atjcu/plants/nq-weeds-by-scientific-name2/momordicacharantia

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Stinking Passion Flower and Corky Passion Flower Both passion flower vines are best controlled by handpulling the vines before the fruit ripens. Large infestations will need chemical application of a broad leaf selective herbicide such as Amicide™ http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/plants/weeds-pest-animalsants/weeds/a-z-listing-of-weeds/photo-guide-toweeds/stinking-passion-flower http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/plants/weeds-pest-animalsants/weeds/a-z-listing-of-weeds/photo-guide-toweeds/stinking-passion-flower/?a=55322

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Billygoat Weed Billygoat weed can be controlled in small outbreaks by hand-pulling the plants. A broad leaf selective herbicide is recommended for larger infestations. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Ageratum_conyzoides.htm http://keys.lucidcentral.org/keys/v3/eafrinet/weeds/ke y/weeds/Media/Html/Ageratum_conyzoides_(Billygoat_ Weed).htm

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Devil’s Backbone Devil’s backbone is controlled by hand-pulling or digging out the plants. Wear protective clothing as the sap is toxic. It is important to be vigilant and ensure each piece of the plant is bagged and or burnt. Remove waste from the site. The area will need to be monitored and controlled as it is likely to reshoot from ground parts. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphorbia_tithymaloides http://www.somemagneticislandplants.com.au/index.p hp/plants/433-euphorbia-tithymaloides

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Coral Berry Small outbreaks can be controlled through handpulling, with the plant matter placed in a garbage bag and the green matter allowed to rot. This plant is toxic and care should be taken when handling. A broad leaf selective will be effective for larger infestations. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Rivina_humilis.htm

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Brazilian Nightshade Handpulling this toxic environmental weed should be effective as the root system is shallow. Alternatively, treatment with a broadleaf selective herbicide should work. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Solanum_seaforthianum.ht m https://www.jcu.edu.au/discover-nature-atjcu/plants/nq-weeds-by-common-name/solanumseaforthianum

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Chinese Burr These plants can be controlled in small outbreaks through handpulling, or in larger outbreaks through the application of a broadleaf selective herbicide. http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800 -0b07-490a-8d040605030c0f01/media/Html/Triumfetta_rhomboidea.ht m

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