Download enhancing biodiversity hotspots along western

ENHANCING BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOTS
ALONG WESTERN QUEENSLAND
STOCK ROUTES
Report Prepared By Bryan Walsh / South West NRM, May 2009
Cover photos
Top left: A black-shouldered kite (Elanus axillaris)
Top right: Major Mitchell’s cockatoos (Lophochroa leadbeateri)
Centre: A drover moving cattle
Bottom left: A yakka skink (Egernia rugosa)
Bottom right: A Euro, or common wallaroo (Macropus robustus)
(All photos were taken by B. Walsh)
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Executive summary
The Stock Route Network (SRN) of western Queensland has significant economic
value for pastoralists, and has significant habitat for biodiversity. The network covers
a range of habitats that stretch from the border with New South Wales to the Gulf of
Carpentaria, which in turn support a variety of biodiversity that include many
conservation priorities for Queensland. However, a number of threats to the SRN,
compounded by a lack of knowledge about the conservation priorities, are
compromising the management of this resource.
In order to improve the management of the natural values of the SRN, this project
sought to identify some of the biodiversity hotspots on the stock routes of western
Queensland, and provide recommendations for their management in order to achieve
the greatest conservation benefits.
To achieve these objectives, the project partners (Southern Gulf Catchments Ltd.,
Desert Channels Queensland Inc., South West NRM Ltd., Queensland Murray
Darling Committee Inc., and the Department of Environment and Resource
Management) were supported by funds from the Australian Government to map and
identify potential sites, carry out field visits to verify values and threats, and to make
management recommendation for identified biodiversity hotspots.
This project identified 47 biodiversity hotspots as well as other sites of high nature
conservation or geological value, and sites that require further research. For each
biodiversity hotspot the biological values were identified (including the presence of
priority species), as well as the threats, current management, and recommended
management actions.
The condition of the biodiversity hotspots and stock routes were comparable to the
management of the station or protected area they adjoin or traverse, and many were
in good condition. However, common threats were habitat degradation from weeds,
competition/predation by introduced animals, inappropriate fire regime, damage to
springs by feral pigs, and overgrazing by stock in some areas.
Mitigating the threats to these biodiversity hotspots will require: an increased
awareness of the values and management needs of these sites amongst the local
stakeholders; a focus of management on the recommended actions; and increased
coordination amongst stakeholders to make the greatest conservation gains with
limited resources.
The recommendations in this report can be used to help focus the work programmes
of relevant stakeholders, as well as leverage for the funding required to conserve
these biodiversity hotspots.
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Contents
Executive Summary
3
List of maps
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List of tables
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List of plates
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Introduction
Project objectives
Project area
Project methodology
The format of this report
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The Southern Gulf NRM region
Introduction
Biodiversity hotspots
Sites recommended for further research
Additional findings
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The Desert Channels NRM Region
Introduction
Biodiversity hotspots
Sites of high nature conservation value
Sites recommended for further research
Additional findings
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28
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The South West NRM Region
Introduction
Biodiversity hotspots
Sites of high nature conservation and geological values
Additional findings
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101
The Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM Region
Introduction
Biodiversity hotspots
Additional findings
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Conclusions
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Acknowledgements
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References
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Acronyms
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Appendix 1: Priority species
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Appendix 2: Data sheet for site visits
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List of maps
Map 1. The Stock Route Network of western Queensland.
Map 2. Biodiversity hotspots of the Southern Gulf NRM Region.
Map 3. Biodiversity hotspots of the Desert Channels NRM Region.
Map 4. Biodiversity hotspots of the South West NRM Region.
Map 5. Biodiversity hotspots of the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM
Region.
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List of tables
Table 1. Biodiversity hotspots and sites recommended for further research in the
Southern Gulf NRM Region.
Table 2. Biodiversity hotspots and sites of high nature conservation value in the
Desert Channels NRM Region.
Table 3. Biodiversity hotspots and sites of high nature conservation and
geological values in the South West NRM Region.
Table 4. Biodiversity hotspots in the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM
Region.
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List of plates
Plate 1. Charles Curry by the predator-proof fence at the Julia Creek Airport.
Plate 2. Hell’s Gate sandstone outcrop.
Plate 3. Aboriginal art gallery at Hell’s Gate.
Plate 4. Gregory River at the Lawn Hill crossing.
Plate 5. Cattle grazing damage to Pandanus aquaticus.
Plate 6. Purple-crowned fairy-wren in Pandanus aquaticus.
Plate 7. Rapids on the O’Shannassy River.
Plate 8. The buff-sided race of the white-browed robin.
Plate 9. Bilby burrow with fresh scats and tail-marks.
Plate 10. Bilby diggings.
Plate 11. Captive bilby.
Plate 12. Waddy tree (Acacia peuce) damage where a branch has been
removed.
Plate 13. Hell Hole Gorge.
Plate 14. Yellow-footed rock-wallaby.
Plate 15. Elizabeth Springs.
Plate 16. “Big Red” sand dune.
Plate 17. Lake Galilee.
Plate 18. Lake Dunn.
Plate 19. The recreational beach on Lake Dunn.
Plate 20. Myross Springs.
Plate 21. Old Cork Waterhole.
Plate 22. McIlwraith Homestead.
Plate 23. Chainsaw damage from fire wood collection.
Plate 24. Coopers Creek Waterhole.
Plate 25. Black-faced woodswallow.
Plate 26. Spinifex pigeon.
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List of plates continued
Plate 27. Northern quoll.
Plate 28. Squatter pigeon.
Plate 29. Steve Wilson holds up a Collett’s snake road fatality.
Plate 30. Lake Dartmouth.
Plate 31. Native liquorice flower.
Plate 32. Langlo Crossing on the Langlo River.
Plate 33. Ooline Park.
Plate 34. Harrisia cactus.
Plate 35. Ooline trees.
Plate 36. Overnight cattle stock camp after rain.
Plate 37. Womal.
Plate 38. Bundoona Springs.
Plate 39. The mistletoe Amyema quandang.
Plate 40. Lake Bindegolly with an approaching storm in the distance.
Plate 41. A juvenile Murray cod.
Plate 42. The CFRC releasing Murray cod fingerlings.
Plate 43. Erosion at Bakers Bend.
Plate 44. Tagging a mature Murray cod for release.
Plate 45. Koala at Boatman Station.
Plate 46. Water lettuce at Cunnamulla Weir.
Plate 47. Yakka skink.
Plate 48. Active rabbit warren with yakka skinks.
Plate 49. Yakka skink scats.
Plate 50. Yakka skink.
Plate 51. Major Mitchell’s cockatoo with crest extension.
Plate 52. Major Mitchell’s cockatoo road fatality.
Plate 53. Major Mitchell’s cockatoo feeding on a desert paddy melon on the
road verge.
Plate 54. Oak Swamp.
Plate 55. Adavale Escarpment.
Plate 56. The pig-proof fencing around Tego Springs.
Plate 57. Barakula State Forest.
Plate 58. Womal trees.
Plate 59. Yakka skink.
Plate 60. Little red flying-fox colony on the Balonne River.
Plate 61. Beranga Reserve – “The Lilies”.
Plate 62. The daisy Rutidosis lanata.
Plate 63. Cobb & Co corduroy coach track.
Plate 64. Aboriginal well.
Plate 65. Parthenium weed.
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Introduction
Queensland’s Stock Route Network (SRN) is a web of stock routes, roads and
reserves for travelling stock that covers most of the State. This network is a rich
inherited legacy that has far greater benefits than just the movement of livestock,
which was and still is their primary role.
The stock routes were formally recognised between the 1860s and 1890s, although
human usage of these routes goes back much earlier. Aboriginal trade routes had
traditionally followed the best hunting trails and permanent watering sites, so it is little
wonder that indigenous knowledge was sought to survey for pastoral settlement and
movement of livestock when the stock routes were established. This pragmatic
approach resulted in the retention of some of our best biodiversity sites throughout
the SRN of western Queensland, including dry season water holes which are the
refugia for aquatic life in a land of pulsing seasons.
As this network stretches from the Queensland border with New South Wales to the
Gulf of Carpentaria, it supports a diverse range of threatened species and habitats
from springs of the Great Artesian Basin, to Brigalow woodlands, to the tropical rivers
of the Gulf country. Further evidence of the biodiversity value of the stock routes,
their connectivity, and remnant vegetation, is illustrated by the number of National
Parks and Conservation Reserves that either have stock routes connecting with the
park, or dissecting them completely (such as Diamantina National Park and Hell Hole
Gorge). In total, this amounts to 28 National Parks and two Bush Heritage
Conservation Reserves in the four Natural Resource Management (NRM) regions of
Western Queensland. There are also 55 declared State Forests which are in some
way connected to stock routes.
Under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002, the
administration of the SRN is shared between local Government and the Department
of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) (formerly the Department of
Natural Resources and Water and the Environmental Protection Agency). Local
government is responsible for day-to-day management, while DERM is responsible
for providing the framework of legislation and policy for stock route management and
support for local governments. As not all of the SRN is currently used to move stock,
stock routes are classified into either active (primary, secondary and minor) and inactive.
The values of the SRN of western Queensland are under threat from multiple
pressures that include inappropriate grazing regimes, feral animals and weeds. Due
to the vast scale of the area, and high costs of management, current management of
the stock routes is highly fragmented. Additionally, a low appreciation of the multiple
assets of the SRN has limited the willingness of managers to protect their values.
It is not possible to manage this entire network equally due to its scale, nor would
that be necessary because of the habitat fragmentation across the landscape from a
history of human impacts. However, by identifying biodiversity hotspots, and
recommendations for their management, it would be possible to direct management
of the SRN to conserving the most significant biodiversity values while maintaining
the primary purpose of the network, which is the movement of stock
In order to achieve this, this project was initiated by a consortium consisting of
DERM, the four Natural Resource Management bodies of Western Queensland –
Southern Gulf Catchments (SGC), Desert Channels Queensland (DCQ), South West
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NRM (SWNRM), and Queensland Murray Darling Committee (QMDC) – and funded
by the Australian Government.
Project objectives
The primary objectives of this project were to identify biodiversity hotspots on the
SRN of western Queensland, and suggest recommended actions to address any
threats to these sites.
Project area
The SRN of western Queensland covers approximately 1,844,000 hectares (i.e. 57%
of Queensland or 83% of the State’s stock route network), and includes about 75,000
kilometres of stock routes (Map 1). In comparison, all of Britain and Ireland would fit
into this project area three times. This area is made up of four NRM regions:
• The Southern Gulf region (managed by Southern Gulf catchments Ltd.),
• The Desert Channels region (managed by Desert Channels Queensland Inc.),
• The South West region (managed by South West NRM Ltd.), and
• The Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne region (managed by the Queensland
Murray Darling Committee Inc.).
Map 1. The Stock Route Network of western Queensland.
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Project methodology
In order to achieve the objectives of identifying biodiversity hotspots and
recommended management actions over a vast geographic area, and within the
timeframe of April 2008 – May 2009, the project followed three major steps.
1. Prioritisation of sites, using the ‘Back on Track species prioritisation framework’
and using maps that overlayed multiple values,
2. Field visits, to confirm the values and threats to each site, and
3. Selection of biodiversity hotspots, using specific criteria.
1. Prioritisation of sites
The ‘Back on Track species prioritisation framework’
The project used DERM’s ‘Back on Track species prioritisation framework’ as the
basis for identifying potential biodiversity hotspots, because this framework identifies
where invested resources can make the greatest gains in conserving Queensland’s
threatened species.
The 'Back on Track species prioritisation framework' prioritises Queensland's native
species (marine, terrestrial and aquatic species of flora and fauna) to guide
conservation, management and recovery. Species are prioritised using multiple
criteria to allow the identification of those that are in trouble or decline, but which
have the greatest chance of recovery. As ‘Back on Track’ assess all species
regardless of their current conservation listing, species identified as priorities within
the project area include those listed under the Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act 1992,
and species not listed under either Act (Appendix 1).
Both ‘Back on Track’ and this project are encouraging a multi-species approach to
make the most of management resources. ‘Back on Track’ encourages focussing on
the common threats of multiple priority species, and this project aimed to identify
biodiversity hotspots (i.e. sites of multiple species). By using known records of where
priority species are found on the SRN of western Queensland, this project has
identified biodiversity hotspots where management actions will achieve the greatest
conservation benefits.
Map production
To identify potential biodiversity hotspots, maps were produced that overlayed
multiple values.
Firstly, a combined map was produced using ArcGIS for the entire area with the
various regional boundaries delineated. This was overlayed with an updated stock
routes shape file, and buffered to one kilometre each side for the purposes of
connectivity and linkages in the landscape. The timeframe to complete this extended
from May to August 2008 due to delays in obtaining updated shape files and security
clearances.
The records of ‘Back on Track’ priority species (Appendix 1), from the DERM WildNet
database, was then overlayed on top of the map layer of the stock routes.
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Additional data such as the location of national parks, state forests, conservation
reserves, Non-Government Organisations (NGO) conservation holdings (such as
Bush Heritage), wetlands, regional ecosystems, and bio-regions were also added to
the map overlays. A concerted effort was made to engage key people personally
rather than by correspondence, to explain the project and defuse any misconceptions
as to its purpose.
Engaging with knowledgeable people from the different regions was an invaluable
source of information. This resulted in historical recollection, identification of
additional biodiversity sites, and on-ground knowledge of the greatest threats such as
feral animals and weeds, with the potential to impact on the biodiversity.
Finally, all this information was collated, and due to the scale of the project, compiled
into topographical map books at a scale 1:250,000 for each region. This created a
soundly based foundation from which to launch on-ground site inspections and
determine potential biodiversity hotspots.
2. Field visits
From August 2008 – March 2009 the potential biodiversity hotspots identified on the
maps were checked in the field. These field trips involved driving approximately
80,000 kilometres of stock route.
There were two purposes of the field visits: Firstly, to collect data on potential sites;
and secondly, to meet and communicate with stock route officers and adjacent
landholders in order to gather local knowledge and engage them in the project.
At each site, data was gathered to confirm the priority species, other biological
values, and threats present, and any current management (Appendix 2). Where
possible, attempts were made to camp at sites in order to maximise the time spent at
potential biodiversity hotspots and the data collected on each site.
Threats to biodiversity were documented at all sites. However, site inspections took
into account other activities in the area of concern, e.g. soil erosion. Some threats
are still not well known such as fire regime for different species, and the
advancement of cane toads.
Drought was still dominant throughout most of the western area at the time of
commencement, and conditions and access were hot and dusty, particularly in the
Gulf. This was dramatically reversed by the onset of an exceptional monsoonal wet
season which saw most of the Gulf and further south inundated with flood waters
during the term of this project.
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3. Selection of biodiversity hotspots
In order to select biodiversity hotspots, the project’s advisory group (made up of
representatives of the project’s partners) developed a list of criteria against which the
sites visited could be assessed. These criteria were:
1. The presence of (multiple) priority species, and their abundance.
2. The physical constraints: adjoining land use, knowledge of the threats, and
the ability to manage the threats (on-ground).
3. The social constraints (level of engagement): cooperation of land manager in
the area, and the opportunity for cooperative management.
4. Active vs. inactive stock routes (despite receiving little use by travelling stock,
inactive stock routes may be more heavily grazed than active routes, either
under permit, because they are not fenced or because they are being grazed
unlawfully).
5. Connectivity to adjoining habitat (such as links to national parks, nature
refuges and voluntary conservation agreements).
6. The shape and size of regional ecosystems (REs), and the percentage of the
stock route site that is mapped as REs.
The format of this report
This report presents the biodiversity hotspots identified by this project, and
recommendations for their management. As this information has been gathered to
improve the management of biodiversity on the SRN of western Queensland, the
target audience for this report are the stock route managers, be they local
government, State government, or adjoining landholders. However, this report will
also be of use to all involved and/or interested in the conservation of biodiversity on
stock routes.
To facilitate the presentation of this information, this report is divided into the four
NRM regions that comprise western Queensland (i.e. Southern Gulf, Desert
Channels, South West, and Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne). Each regional chapter
begins with a table listing the biodiversity hotspots and the local government area in
which they are located. The rest of each regional chapter expands on each
biodiversity hotspot describing their biodiversity values, threats, current management
and recommended actions. Where the conservation status of other species are
mentioned (such as Rare and Vulnerable), these are as listed under the Nature
Conservation Act 1992.
The report ends with two appendices. Appendix one is a list of the priority species
used by this project (as identified through the ‘Back on Track species prioritisation
framework’). Appendix two is a copy of the data sheet used for field visits, for when
information needs to be gathered on additional potential biodiversity hotspots.
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The Southern Gulf NRM Region
Introduction
The Southern Gulf NRM region covers an area of 195,000 square kilometres, and
encompasses the catchments of Flinders, Cloncurry, Leichhardt, Gregory and
Nicholson Rivers, Settlement Creek and Morning Inlet, all of which drain into the Gulf
of Carpentaria. The region has five bio-regions: Mount Isa Inlier, Mitchell Grass
Downs, Gulf Plains, Desert Uplands and Einsleigh Uplands, and comprises all or part
of 9 shires including the Doomadgee and Mornington Shires. In the northern part of
the region are the Southern Gulf Aggregation wetlands, which are wetlands of high
significance.
When the project commenced in May 2008, it was decided to make the first visits to
this region in order to avoid the wet season across northern Australia that can make
mobility almost impossible. As it turned out the 2008 – 2009 wet season was one of
the wettest on record with extensive inundation over an exceptionally long period of
time.
A total of 23 site inspections were made throughout the region, of which five were
considered to be biodiversity hotspots using the selection criteria (Table 1 and Map
2).
Site
Recommendation
Local Government Area
1. Julia Creek Airport
Biodiversity Hotspot
McKinlay Shire
2. Hell’s Gate
Biodiversity Hotspot
Burke Shire
3. Gregory River Crossing Biodiversity Hotspot
Mount Isa City
(1)
4. Gregory River Crossing Biodiversity Hotspot
Burke Shire
(2)
5. O’Shannassy River
Biodiversity Hotspot
Mount Isa City
6. Gregory/O’Shannassy
Further Research
Burke Shire
Rivers
Table 1. Biodiversity hotspots and sites recommended for further research in the
Southern Gulf NRM Region.
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Map 2. Biodiversity hotspots of the Southern Gulf NRM Region.
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Biodiversity hotspots
Site 1. Julia Creek Airport
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P012
Animals:
Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
McKINLAY SHIRE
The Julia Creek Airport is already a focus for management actions for the Julia Creek
dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi). This is because there is strong community support
for the species and its promotion as a tourist icon, and because a population was
discovered around the airport. In conjunction with the Julia Creek community,
McKinlay Shire Council, DERM, and Southern Gulf Catchments Ltd. (SGC), a
predator-proof fence has been constructed around the airport and part of the stock
route (which is an active Reserve), to protect an existing population of the dunnart
from predation by feral cats and foxes. (The Shire has the authority to fence off part
of the SRN reserve for this purpose).
THREATS: The major threat to the Julia Creek dunnart is predation by cats, foxes
and dogs. Overgrazing and weed invasion, in particular parkinsonia (Parkinsonia
aculeata), would degrade the quality of habitat. The advancement of cane toads into
the area is an unknown, but is expected to have a further negative impact.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: In conjunction with McKinlay Shire Council, DERM is
actively ensuring all predator species are eliminated from within the predator-proof
fenced site (Plate 1). Ongoing monitoring and management is planned for the future
with the cooperation of all involved.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that the current maintenance of the
predator-proof fence and predator control be maintained, and planned on-going
monitoring be implemented.
A draft National Recovery Plan for the Julia Creek dunnart has been prepared by
DERM in conjunction with the Australian Government. This document is a blue print
for best practice management, and recommends the implementation of baiting and
shooting for cats and foxes, which has been successful in national parks. This
practice should be incorporated along with the current Shire Pest and Weed
Management Plan, if it is not already being implemented.
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Plate 1. Charles Curry (SGC) by the predator-proof fence at the Julia Creek
Airport (Photo: B. Walsh).
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Site 2. Hell’s Gate (Burketown – Borroloola Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U124
Animals:
Carpentaria grasswren (Amytornis dorothea); and,
red goshawk (Erythrotriorchis radiatus).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BURKE SHIRE
Situated on the main Burketown to Borroloola Road, Hell’s Gate is a large sandstone
outcrop (Plate 2) that is a well known bird watching site, specifically for the
Carpentaria grasswren (Amytornis dorothea). The site is believed to be a favourite
destination for the Gulf Savannah Guides, as it has other sandstone species and
excellent connectivity to an escarpment that runs through to the Northern Territory
border and beyond. Hell’s Gate also has cultural significance with Aboriginal art
galleries (Plate 3) and a rock shelter, where ochre grinding cups in the solid rock give
testimony to its historic usage.
Plate 2. Hell’s Gate sandstone outcrop – habitat of the Carpentaria grasswren
(Photo: B. Walsh).
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Plate 3. Aboriginal art gallery at Hell’s Gate (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: While Carpentaria grasswrens are able to tolerate low intensity, mosaic
burns, they are susceptible to high intensity wildfires because they are relatively poor
flyers and dispersers (Dr. Leasie Feldorhof, pers. comm.). Apart from high intensity
fires, predation from feral cats and dogs, and excessive camping are the greatest
threats in this area. Vegetation clearing and overgrazing are not threatening issues in
this rocky spinifex terrain as it is lowly rated for grazing purposes, and additionally the
stock route at this site is inactive.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Burke Shire Council has undertaken some minor
access road works to the site. However, this has not stopped tourists creating
additional tracks throughout the site for access and camping.
RECOMMENDATIONS: In order to minimize the impact of tourists to the site, and
their disturbance to Carpentaria grasswren, a priority action needs to be restricting
the number of camping sites and vehicle access tracks. Additionally, the installation
of bollards to direct traffic to camping sites and avoid the current proliferation of new
sites is strongly recommended, as is the erection of good interpretive signage to
raise awareness. In order to protect the Aboriginal art galleries, strategic fencing or
barriers needs to be installed (Sullivan, 1984).
The control of predators in this isolated site would be futile without a broader
coordination in the surrounding area. Therefore, the area will need coordinated
baiting between the Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation (DEEDI) (formerly the Department of Primary Industries), Burke Shire
Council, and DERM.
Finally, it is recommended that low-intensity, mosaic burns are used for any fire
management in the area in order to protect the Carpentaria grasswrens.
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Site 3. Gregory River Crossing (1) (Riversleigh Station)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U 079
Plants:
Pandanaus aquaticus.
Animals:
purple-crowned fairy-wren (Malurus coronatus),
red goshawk (Erythrotriorchis radiatus), and
ghost bat (Macroderma gigas).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MOUNT ISA CITY
The Gregory River (Plate 4) is one of the most renowned perennial systems in the
Top End of Australia. It is spring-fed, combines with the O’Shannassy River, and has
recently been classified as a ‘Wild River’ under the Queensland Wild Rivers and
Other Legislation Amendment Act 2005. This rich, tropical river system supports
multiple priority species living along and adjacent to the riparian edges, and winds
through rugged low escarpments where undoubtedly ghost bat (Macroderma gigas)
roosts along with other species.
Plate 4. Gregory River at the Lawn Hill crossing (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: Although feral predators such as cats undoubtedly have some predation
impact on the faunal species, the greatest threats to Gregory River area come from
overgrazing, inappropriate fire regime, feral pigs and weeds. The riparian edges of
this system come under a lot of grazing pressure during the dry season, especially in
the case of Pandanus aquaticus that cattle graze out over the waters edge (Plate 5).
Cane toads have already invaded this area, with minimal ‘before and after’ surveys to
quantify impact.
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Plate 5. Cattle grazing damage to Pandanus aquaticus (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The need for fencing to protect the riparian area of this
site has already been recognised, and work has been undertaken with the
cooperation of SGC, DERM and the adjacent property manager resulting in the
fencing of both sides of the Gregory River through to Riversleigh Station.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that the current fence be maintained (a
particular concern in this flood-prone area), and that the fencing be extended to
protect the riparian area upstream from the crossing in order to improve the
protection of the site.
Improved coordination of pest and weed management between DEEDI, Mount Isa
City Council, SGC and landholders would also improve the effectiveness and
conservation benefits of these actions.
It is not recommended to implement any control of cane toads, because until a
pathogen is found to biologically control cane toads, manual or mechanical control in
isolated localities provides very limited benefits.
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Site 4. Gregory River Crossing (2) (Burketown - Borroloola Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U124
Plants:
Pandanaus aquaticus.
Animals:
purple-crowned fairy-wren (Malurus coronatus).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BURKE SHIRE
As with the Gregory River Crossing at Riversleigh Station, this site has multiple
priority species including Pandanaus aquaticus and purple-crowned fairy-wren
(Malurus coronatus) (Plate 6). In addition there is an abundance of other species
such as white-bellied sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), white-browed robin
(Poecilodryas superciliosa), Australian freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus johnsoni),
and northern saratoga (Scleropages leichardti).
Plate 6. Purple-crowned fairy-wren in Pandanus aquaticus (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The greatest threat to this site is overgrazing of the riparian area. Other
major threats are habitat degradation by feral pigs and weeds, predation by feral
cats, and cane toads that are fatal to native fauna which ingest the toads (especially
crocodiles and goannas). Because this site is on a busy road during the dry season,
garbage is also an issue.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The Burke Shire Council has a management regime in
place, including the provision of garbage bins.
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RECOMMENDATIONS: The highest priority for this site is the installation of strategic
fencing to protect the riparian area from grazing, which needs to involve the Burke
Shire Council and adjacent landholder. These northern, tropical rivers are subject to
annual flooding; therefore the maintenance of any installed fencing is of paramount
importance.
As for the Gregory River Crossing at Riversleigh Station, this site would also benefit
from improved coordination of pest and weed management between DEEDI, Burke
Shire Council, SGC and landholders.
21
Site 5. O’Shannassy River (Lawn Hill Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U079
Plants:
Pandanaus aquaticus.
Animals:
purple-crowned fairy-wren (Malurus coronatus), and
red goshawk (Erythrotriorchis radiatus).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MOUNT ISA CITY
The O’Shannassy River is a spring-fed perennial system that joins the Gregory River
on Riversleigh Station, with some evidence of limestone tufa formations along its
rapids. As it shares the same aquatic system as the Gregory River, it also has the
same priority species present.
Although the stock route at this site is inactive, the riparian edges are still overgrazed
by local stock. Negotiations between SGC, Riversleigh Station and DERM have
resulted in fencing off the Gregory River Crossing, with fencing extensions to other
flowing streams on Riversleigh Station.
Plate 7. Rapids on the O’Shannassy River (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the O’Shannassy River at Lawn Hill Road are
overgrazing of the riparian area, habitat degradation by feral pigs and weeds, and
cane toads that are fatal to native fauna which ingest the toads. There is also
advanced erosion on the stock route adjacent to the river, and evidence of wildfire
through the riparian Melaleuca forest.
22
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: As with the Gregory River, negotiations have
commenced with between SGC, Riversleigh Station and DERM to fence-off the
riparian area.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As overgrazing is a major threat, it is recommended that the
negotiations between SGC, Riversleigh Station and DERM be continued and the
strategic fencing be installed to protect the riparian area.
An erosion control strategy plan is needed to address the damage that exists
between the two rivers in order to avoid further impact on water quality and arrest
degradation of the landscape.
As for the two hotspots on the Gregory River (Sites 3 and 4), coordination of pest
and weed management would improve the effectiveness and conservation benefits
of these actions.
23
Sites recommended for further research
The Gregory and O’Shannassy Rivers
As the Gregory River system is so rich in multiple species, anywhere stock routes
cross its banks would rate as a biodiversity hotspot. Despite dry season overgrazing,
the system is still considered relatively intact. This is supported by: the river receiving
Wild River status; that 15% is in national park; and, that there are no towns (apart
from the Gregory River township) or dams along its watercourse.
There is a great need to identify what are the key sites along both the Gregory and
O’Shannassy Rivers, as the entire system would probably rate as a biodiversity
hotspot using this project’s criteria.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that further surveys and research to
assess the presence and abundance of priority species, and to identify key sites and
areas of connectivity and landscape linkage across the whole system.
Additional findings
An additional 17 sites were visited with data recorded for DERM’s WildNet database.
These included such species that are not ‘priority species’ under ‘Back on Track, but
are still uncommon and of conservation interest. These species include the blackbreasted buzzard (Hamirostra melanosternon), small-leaved ebony (Diospyorus
humilis), and a deceased specimen of the greater glider (Petauroides volans) that
was picked up off a barbed wire fence north of Hughenden. The Queensland
Museum now holds the specimen which is believed to be the western- most
recording of the species.
Sarus crane (Grus antigone) were in numerous small flocks south of Burketown on
the stock route reserve, with evidence of both mature and juvenile birds.
The buff-sided race of the white-browed robin (Poecilodryas superciliosa race
cerviniventris) was active and plentiful at the Borroloola crossing of the Gregory River
(Plate 8). This site would be approximately the eastern extent of the distribution of
this race.
Little data exists on WildNet for the area north of Hughenden and Julia Creek in the
Southern Gulf NRM region. Because of the mixed landscapes, soils, remnant forests
and escarpments of the area, surveys would reveal more priority species on stock
routes in this area.
24
Plate 8. The buff-sided race of the white-browed robin
(Poecilodryas superciliosa cerviniventris) (Photo: B. Walsh).
In conjunction with DEEDI, SGC undertook a survey of the rivers in the Southern Gulf
NRM region (Hogan and Vallance, 2005). In the results of this report the Flinders
River was highlighted, as it has several endemic species (including priority sawfish
and stingray species) and has dry season water holes that are proven refugia for fish
species in the region. It is strongly suggested that any future surveys visit sites where
stock routes cross this river.
25
The Desert Channels NRM Region
Introduction
The Desert Channels NRM region covers an area of 510,642 square kilometres,
which is approximately 33% of Queensland. The two main catchments of this NRM
region, the Georgina / Diamantina system in the west, plus the combination of the
Barcoo and Thompson Rivers, join to become Cooper Creek and make up the
largest part of the Lake Eyre Basin catchment. The region has seven bioregions,
which are the: Simpson Strzelecki Dune fields, North-West Highlands, Mulga Lands,
Channel Country, Desert Uplands, Mitchell grass Downs, and the Brigalow Belt
South (Sattler and Williams, 1999). The Desert Channels NRM region comprises 12
Shires, and approximately 14,000 people who are mostly involved in the pastoral
industry, tourism, and some mining.
The Desert Channels NRM region has by far the greatest area of all the NRM regions
in Queensland, and it was difficult to cover the area adequately in the timeframe of
this project. However, a total of 35 site inspections were made, of which 10 were
considered to be biodiversity hotspots using the selection criteria (Table 2 and Map
3).
Site
1. Bedourie – Birdsville
Road
2. Birdsville/Bedourie
3. Hell Hole Gorge
National Park
4. Elizabeth Springs
5. “Big Red” Sand Dune
6. Lake Galilee
7. Lake Dunn
8. The Big Spring
9. Old Cork Waterhole
10. Cooper Creek
11. Jericho Reserve
Recommendation
Biodiversity Hotspot
Local Government Area
Diamantina Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Diamantina Shire
Quilpie Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
High Nature Conservation
Value
Further Research
Diamantina Shire
Diamantina Shire
Barcaldine Shire
Barcaldine Shire
Barcaldine Shire
Winton Shire
Barcoo Shire
Barcaldine Shire
12. Isisford – Stonehenge
Blackall Shire
Road
Table 2. Biodiversity hotspots, sites of high nature conservation value, and sites
recommended for further research in the Desert Channels NRM Region.
26
Map 3. Biodiversity hotspots of the Desert Channels NRM Region.
27
Biodiversity hotspots
Site 1. Bedourie – Birdsville Road (Linkage with Adria Downs Station)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U465
Animals:
greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
DIAMANTINA SHIRE
There are many historic records of greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis) in the Birdsville
region. Regrettably, many of these records are just that, historic, and indicate a
former distribution of where the bilby once occurred. However, a site inspection and
quick ground survey undertaken at one of these old sites along the stock route north
of Birdsville discovered evidence of a large bilby population in the area.
A total of 63 active bilby burrows were located along and adjoining the stock route.
Using the technique of brushing away all tracks at burrow entrances at dusk and rechecking the entrances in the morning, it was possible to determine that these
burrows were being actively used as there was the presence of fresh scats and tailmarks (Plate 9). Additional evidence included signs of bilby diggings (from foraging)
(Plate 10), and the remains of a bilby foot was found under a tree that was possibly
dropped by a raptor. Scats were also collected and positively identified by a
researcher at DERM, with the quantity of scats around the burrows suggesting a
reasonably sized population.
Plate 9. Bilby burrow with fresh scats and tail-marks (Photo: B. Walsh).
28
Plate 10. Bilby diggings (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threat to this bilby population are food competition from
rabbits, and artificial watering points that could be points of predation. There is also
the threat of predation from feral cats, foxes and dogs, which are present but not in
high numbers. It is unlikely that the current light stocking rates could be increased at
this site and be a threat to the bilbies, as the type of country could not support a high
density of cattle. The stock route is currently unused and unfenced, resulting in minor
grazing in the area where the bilby burrows were found.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None. Although: positive discussions have taken place
between Desert Channels Queensland Inc. (DCQ) and the adjoining landholder, as
connectivity of this site to adjoining habitat is of paramount importance for the
protection of the population; and, DCQ have also installed road signage in the area to
encourage motorists to reduce their speed in order to avoid bilby road fatalities.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Further surveys are needed to determine the extent and
distribution of the bilby population at this site, and to more accurately prioritise the
threats to the population. Staff from DCQ will undertake a survey of the site, and the
results will be used by DCQ, the landholder, DERM and Diamantina Shire Council to
determine the recommended management.
It is strongly recommended that a cooperative effort is made by DERM and DCQ to
further survey and attempt to locate other bilby populations on stock routes, as they
are believed to still exist at other sites on stock routes SRN U465, U501, U461, and
P001 (Peter McCrae, pers. comm.).
29
Plate 11. Captive bilby at the DERM office Charleville (Photo: B. Walsh).
30
Site 2. Birdsville/Bedourie
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U465
Animals:
At this site the following priority species are known to
occur: common death adder (Acanthophis
antarcticus), woma (Aspidites ramsayi), and kowari
(Dasyuroides byrnei) (Steve Wilson, pers. comm.).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
DIAMANTINA SHIRE
This site is a biodiversity hotspot for common death adder (Acanthophis antarcticus),
woma (Aspidites ramsayi), and kowari (Dasyuroides byrnei). Apart from these priority
species this site is also known for western taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus), and
has a large stand of waddy tree (Acacia peuce) of which there are only three known
stands in Australia. As the trees are scattered over an area approximately 10
kilometres by 3 kilometres that is traversed by the stock route, and has extensive
habitat linkages with the adjoining landholder, this habitat is undoubtedly an
important site for bird breeding and feeding. The waddy tree is an important part of
local Aboriginal mythology and a dream time story is told at this site. The local
community is supportive of the site, and have erected a shade area and interpretive
information bay for tourists.
Plate 12. Waddy tree (Acacia peuce) damage where a branch has been removed
(Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the kowari and juvenile womas are feral cats and
foxes, and the major threat to the habitat are collectors of waddy tree (for both
firewood, wood-turning and fence-posts), grazing of the regenerating trees, and a
lack of knowledge about the reproductive ecology of the trees.
31
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None, although there is a tourist information site
maintained by the Diamantina Shire Council.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended to implement control actions for feral
cats and foxes at this site, which would benefit the priority species. Any pest control
should be in coordination with Diamantina Shire Council and adjacent landholders.
In an environment where trees are sparse, the waddy tree is an important breeding
and feeding habitat for bird species, as well as a rare species itself. It is
recommended that there are discussions between the adjoining landholder,
Diamantina Shire Council and DCQ with a view to manage this unique habitat. It
would also be beneficial if the existing interpretive information for tourists be
expanded to make it more comprehensive and inclusive of biodiversity.
32
Site 3. Hell Hole Gorge National Park
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U510
Animals:
Emmott’s short-neck turtle (Emydura macquarii
emmotti), and
yellow-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus
celeris).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
QUILPIE SHIRE
Hell Hole Gorge is a restricted access national park with the stock route running
straight through the park along Powell Creek. A small gorge of approximately 20
metres in depth has been cut through the composite rock by Powell Creek (Plate 13).
A fallen rock formation in the Gorge is home to a population of yellow-footed rockwallaby (Petrogale xanthopus celeris) (Plate 14). Emmott’s short-neck turtle
(Emydura macquarii emmotti) exist in permanent pools.
Plate 13. Hell Hole Gorge (Photo: B. Walsh).
33
Plate 14. Yellow-footed rock-wallaby (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: There is no threat from overgrazing by cattle as this stock route is
inactive. Major threats are predation from feral cats, foxes and dogs, and potential
displacement and overgrazing by goats. Illegal fishing and netting may also be a
threat. Throughout the area feral pigs are predators on turtle nests, and if confirmed
at this site would also be a major threat.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Periodic feral control in Hell Hole Gorge National Park
is implemented by DERM, and goat numbers appear to be under control. There is
very little surface soil around the Gorge, and weeds are not prominent around the
Rock Wallaby colony.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Any management actions should be in coordination with
DERM, nearby Milo Station, and the Quilpie Shire Council, especially in order to
maximise the benefits of feral animal control on a landscape scale and not just in the
national park.
An intensive survey is recommended to look at any potential habitat corridors for
yellow-footed rock-wallaby that would improve the connectivity between this
population and possible others on local properties. Adjoining landholders are
supportive of such an initiative.
The turtle and fish population at this site is sometimes subjected to the pressure of
overfishing. Regulatory signage at the gorge itself, combined with opportunistic
inspections from Charleville and Longreach rangers, would improve the protection of
these species.
34
Site 4. Elizabeth Springs
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P001
Plants:
Eriocaulon carsonii, and
Myriophyllum artesium.
Animals:
Elizabeth Springs goby (Chlamydogobius
micropterus).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
DIAMANTINA SHIRE
Elizabeth Springs consists of multiple springs spread over 20 – 30 hectares (Plate
15). They are the classic mound spring formation, standing at 1 – 2 metres above the
surrounding land. The water in the springs is shallow, but runs down the mounds to
lower pools.
The Elizabeth Springs goby (Chlamydogobius micropterus) is a small and timid fish
that is sighted when it darts between submerged weeds and detritus. The species is
both present and abundant, and is possibly benefiting from fencing installed by
DERM to exclude cattle, which would graze the springs if they were unfenced.
Plate 15. Elizabeth Springs (feral pig rooting damage in the foreground)
(Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are habitat degradation from groundwater
drawdown, habitat degradation from pig rooting and wallowing, and invasive weeds
(especially parkinsonia). There are also potential impacts from: the illegal collection
of native fish; competition/displacement from accidental introduction of mosquitofish
35
(Gambusia sp.) that can be transported under the feathers of waterfowl; and
overgrazing if stock break through into the fenced area.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The fencing installed by DERM has partially limited
overgrazing and trampling by cattle. However, pigs still frequent the area and impacts
from their rooting and wallowing continue to occur.
RECOMMENDATIONS: To improve the mitigation of pest and weed threats to this
site, combined management by the Diamantina Shire Council, DERM and DCQ is
recommended.
The exclusion of cattle from Elizabeth Springs does seem to be beneficial. A similar
experiment is strongly recommended with pig-proof fencing around some of the
mounds within the enclosed area. Exclusion of feral pigs, followed by careful
monitoring, would help identify, quantify and isolate pig damage as well as verifying
the benefits of fencing.
Other experiences such as the successful fencing of Tego Springs on the stock route
through Culgoa Floodplain National Park resulted in the regrowth of 37 plant species
that were not there prior to fencing, including the rare Sporobolus partimpatens
(Craig Eddy, pers. comm.)
A recovery plan is being jointly developed by the Commonwealth and Queensland
Government Agencies. However, inadequate information on individual spring
management has meant that an effective management programme for Elizabeth
Springs has not yet been developed. Gathering adequate information to inform
management should be a high priority for the conservation of this Endangered
regional ecosystem.
As the mound springs are so unique with so many endemic species, consideration
should be given to the establishment of a monitoring programme to determine if new
weed or invasive species such as mosquitofish (Gambusia sp.) are introduced,
especially in the Desert Channels Queensland NRM region where so many of these
springs are located.
36
Site 5. “Big Red” Sand Dune
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U465
Animals:
striated grasswren (Amytornis striatus).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
DIAMANTINA SHIRE
The “Big Red” sand dune is a tourist destination, rising some 100 metres above the
surrounding swales, which is found on the stock route due west from Birdsville.
Despite the popularity of this section of track for motor vehicles, a brief survey
revealed an abundance of life including a family of striated grasswrens (Amytornis
striatus). During the field visit the grasswrens were unafraid, and a positive
identification was made by sight and photographs.
Plate 16. “Big Red” sand dune (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats at this site are predation from feral cats, foxes and
dogs, minor impacts from inappropriate fire regime, and possibly some impact from
rabbits removing vegetation and as a result reducing the abundance of insects.
Another threat is uncontrolled four-wheel driving, which damages the entire dune
ecology. Unlike rabbits, the impact from cattle grazing is limited as it is restricted by
the proximity to water.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: There is no current management for striated
grasswrens at this site.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Feral animal control is the management priority for this site
area, with a particular focus on the control of feral cats, foxes and dogs. To
realistically control feral animals at this site would require addressing these threats
37
across the adjoining landscape, which in turn would require coordination of feral
control between stakeholders. Of great benefit would be collaboration with the
scientific research undertaken by the Invasive Animals CRC.
In terms of visitor management to the site, there needs to be restriction of four-wheel
drive activities to the main track. Interpretive signage on local species such as the
striated grass wren and dune ecology would also be valuable to raise visitor
awareness and appreciation of the striated grasswren and the dune ecology.
A follow up survey is recommended for the area, as other uncommon species such
as cinnamon quail-thrush (Cinclosoma cinnamomeum) and gibberbird (Ashbyia
lovensis) were also noted in the vicinity.
38
Site 6. Lake Galilee (Hazelmere Station)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U311
Animals:
Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BARCALDINE SHIRE
Lake Galilee is an exceptional saline lake of approximately 40 kilometres by 30
kilometres in dimension (Plate 17), and has an Endangered regional ecosystem
(10.3.17) in the south-west corner of the lake on the stock route reserve. The lake is
a migratory stop over for birds and is considered to be of importance to many
species. Many of the bird species that breed at the lake are ground breeders. The
sodic clay soils produce plants that are not regarded as highly palatable to stock, but
they are still grazed.
Plate 17. Lake Galilee (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are predation from feral cats, foxes and
dogs, habitat degradation by rabbits, and habitat degradation from weeds such as
parkinsonia (Parkinsonia aculeata). It is unknown what the advancement of cane
toads will do to this lake, but because the waters are mostly saline this may minimise
impact. On the stock route reserve there is some impact from previous tree clearing,
but this does not appear to be a current threat.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
39
RECOMMENDATIONS: Over the years, many of these large unfenced stock route
reserves have, understandably, become regarded as part of station management
with no objection from Government agencies. Therefore, dialogue needs to be
established with these properties to re-emphasise the status of the stock route
network and their regulations.
The current moratorium on tree clearing under the Vegetation Management Act 1999
should prevent future clearing on stock route reserves, but there is a need for a
sustainable grazing agreement to be negotiated with the station management
adjoining Lake Galilee.
It would be beneficial to the ground nesting birds if pest control activities could
coincide with breeding patterns, so as to minimize the levels of predation when eggs
and fledglings are present.
Finally, there is the need to assess the breeding and roosting sites around Lake
Galilee to determine if some sites warrant fencing-off from feral predators.
40
Site 7. Lake Dunn (The Lake Station)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M033
Animals:
Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BARCALDINE SHIRE
Lake Dunn is a freshwater lake that is the inland recreational beach for the people
from the Aramac area, and on its western side there is a large stock route reserve. It
is already designated as a wildlife sanctuary, and is an important stop over for
migratory species. The lake also supports native shrimp, crayfish and yellow belly
(Macquaria ambigua) making it an important food source for birds as well as other
wildlife.
Plate 18. Lake Dunn (Photo: B. Walsh).
41
Plate 19. The recreational beach on Lake Dunn (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to Lake Dunn are overgrazing of the lake edge, habitat
degradation by rabbits and weeds, and predation of native wildlife by feral cats and
foxes. (According to the local stock routes officer, feral foxes and cats are on the
increase in this region). The introduction of red claw yabbies (Cherax
quadricarinatus) to the system for fishing purposes, and the advancement of cane
toads, have the potential to become the greatest threats because the lake is fresh
water and would provide suitable habitat to both.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Barcaldine Shire Council manages the access road and
public facilities through their Aramac office.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Given there are complexities with the management of Lake
Galilee (as it is a Wildlife Sanctuary, a recreational destination, and a major stock
route reserve utilised by adjoining property owners), a priority is to engage the
Barcaldine Shire Council in discussions on the long term management of the lake. It
is strongly recommend that a Lake Dunn Management Plan be developed to address
the current and potential threats to this significant aquatic system.
42
Site 8. The Big Spring (Myross Station)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M033
Plants:
Peplidium sp. (Edgbaston R.J.Fensham 3341).
Animals:
Edgbaston goby (Chlamydogobius squamigenus), and
Edgbaston hardyhead (Craterocephalus sp).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BARCALDINE SHIRE
Although Big Spring is situated off stock route (on Myross Station), it has a
considerable overflow into the adjoining Pelican Creek, which is on the stock route
and where the priority species are also present. The spring itself is of exceptional
standards, the dimensions of an Olympic swimming pool dimensions (albeit shallow)
and with an active permanent discharge of potable water (Plate 20).
The stock route is active, but minor, and droving is usually confined to the more
easily traversed road verges, as a large expanse of soft spinifex (Triodia pungens)
surrounds the springs. Cattle show a preference to drink out of Pelican creek rather
than the springs.
One of the biological questions posed by this site is that although the entire area is
periodically inundated when Lake Mueller floods, the aquatic species can still be
found at the springs after the floods (D. Hay, pers. comm.).
The interaction between Big Spring, Pelican Creek, Lake Mueller, and the movement
of the priority fish species through this aquatic system, makes this site a biodiversity
hotspot as it supports priority species and maintains important linkages.
THREATS: The major threats to this site are illegal collection of native fish species,
overgrazing by stock, and habitat degradation from pig rooting and wallowing.
Potential threats include the potential draw-down of the water for stock, accidental
introduction of mosquitofish (Gambusia sp.), the arrival of cane toads, and the spread
of parkinsonia weed.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The running water from the springs is channelled off for
stock purposes under the station management.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It would be of benefit if this site is included in the Barcaldine
Shire Council pest and weed management programme, with a particular focus on pig
control.
It is also important to keep open dialogue with the management of Myross Station
regarding the management of the spring and stock route.
The site should also be monitored for the potential future arrival of invasive species
such as mosquitofish (Gambusia sp.), cane toads, and parkinsonia weed.
43
Plate 20. Myross Springs (Photo: B. Walsh).
44
Site 9. Old Cork Waterhole (Winton – Birdsville Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P014
Animals:
Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis).
At this site the following species are also known to
occur: the kultarr (Antechinomys laniger) that is
found on the adjoining dunes and listed as Rare
under the NCA, the red-tailed black-cockatoo
(Calyptorhynchus banksii), and an undescribed
species of turtle (Steve Wilson, pers. comm.)
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
WINTON SHIRE
The Old Cork Waterhole is a site of both natural and historic significance on the
Diamantina River (Plate 21). Overlooking the area is the historic homestead of
Queensland’s past Premier McIlwraith (Plate 22), and the waterhole itself is one of
the exceptional refugia for aquatic species in the Desert Channels NRM region. Such
refugia are becoming more recognised as exceptionally significant sites for fish
assemblages of the flood plain river systems, as well as other wildlife, and need
special management consideration. Little work has been done on these sites, and an
undescribed turtle is known to exist in the Old Cork Waterhole. The site is situated on
an active stock route.
Plate 21. Old Cork Waterhole (Photo: B. Walsh).
45
Plate 22. McIlwraith Homestead (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threat to this site are overgrazing by cattle, overfishing and the
illegal netting of fish, predation by feral cats and foxes, habitat degradation by weeds,
cane toads, and excessive tourist impacts from vehicle traffic, camping and wood
collection along the riparian edges using chainsaws (Plate 23).
Plate 23. Chainsaw damage from firewood collection (Photo: B. Walsh).
46
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Desert Channels Queensland has undertaken the
preservation of the old McIlwraith homestead and the protection of some red-tailed
black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii) breeding hollows.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is strongly recommend that a visitor and landscape
management plan be developed in conjunction with management of the adjoining
station. Of importance is addressing the damage caused by tourists collecting
firewood at this site (and other sites in western Queensland). It would be beneficial to
engage with Winton Shire Council to put up signs on the approach to the Old Cork
Waterhole, in order to encourage tourists to gather wood along the roadside before
they reach this site. This site should also be a high priority list for pest and animal
control delivered by Winton Shire Council.
As tourist numbers are on the increase, consideration should be given by the Shires
of Western Queensland for a combined public education programme that would
address sustainable camping and fishing, to foster a continued enjoyment of the
outback.
47
Site 10. Cooper Creek Waterhole (Windorah)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U480
Animals:
Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis).
At this site the following species are also known to
occur: the kultarr (Antechinomys laniger) that is found
on the adjoining dunes and listed as Rare under the
NCA, the red-tailed black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus
banksii), and an undescribed species of turtle (Steve
Wilson, pers. comm.).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT.
BARCOO SHIRE
The Cooper Creek Waterhole (Plate 24) is 37 metres deep and an important refugia
for fish and turtle assemblages. It eventually discharges into Lake Eyre, providing
brood stock for the many bird and aquatic species that explode in numbers after a big
‘wet season’ (as witnessed during the course of this project). The connectivity of this
site and others with the Windorah floodplains and their high fish production is well
documented (Balcombe and Arthington, 2009). Additionally, Major Mitchell’s
cockatoos (Lophochroa leadbeateri) and red-tailed black-cockatoos
(Calyptorhynchus banksii) are known to use the riparian old growth trees for
breeding.
Plate 24. Coopers Creek Waterhole (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle, overfishing,
predation by feral cats and foxes, habitat degradation by weeds, and visitor impacts
from excessive camping and firewood collection. Cane toads have been recorded at
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Windorah but their presence at this site is unknown at the time of report writing
(Stephen Peck, pers. comm.).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The Barcoo Shire Council has established an
interpretative drive, and maintains garbage bins.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with the Old Cork Waterhole, this popular destination has
reached a point where the next protective management step needs to be taken by
developing a management plan. Firewood gathering sites should be designated, and
chainsaw usage should be banned. There also needs to be a public awareness
campaign to highlight the values of the site, and what visitors need to do to help
conserve those values.
It is recommended that further survey work be undertaken at this site (and other
similar waterholes) to determine the presence and abundance of priority species.
Most existing data records are biased, as they have been collected during the dry
season when mobility is easy, rather than during the wet season when there is
abundant wildlife but also when floods restrict access.
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Sites of high nature conservation value
Site 11. Jericho Reserve
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M313
Unknown
HIGH NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE
BARCALDINE SHIRE
Although the vegetation between Lake Dunn and Jericho is in a poor state from the
recent drought, there is a strong demarcation when entering the stock route reserve
north of Jericho. This extensive stock route reserve consists of intact remnant
vegetation and is in very good condition.
THREATS: Major threats to the Jericho Reserve are habitat degradation from weeds,
predation from feral animals, and a lack of knowledge of what species of flora and
fauna exist at the site.
RECOMMENDATION: The first priority for this site is a survey to determine
presence/abundance of priority species, the quality of habitat, and assess the
importance of the threats.
Sites recommended for further research
Site 12. Isisford – Stonehenge Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U221
Unknown
Further Research
BLACKALL SHIRE
This site may be a possible hotspot as common death adder (Acanthophis
antarcticus) are known from the area (Angus Emmott, pers. comm.), and a number of
birds (such as black-faced woodswallow (Artamus cinereus), Plate 25) were seen in
the scattered, remnant brigalow trees.
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Plate 25. Black-faced woodswallow (Photo: S. Wilson).
THREATS: Unknown.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The site requires a more intensive survey to confirm the
presence of any priority species and identify their threats.
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Additional findings
Spinifex pigeons (Geophaps plumifera) (Plate 26) were recorded as far south as
Adavale adjacent to the Blackwater River, which would be about the extent of their
southern distribution.
Plate 26. Spinifex pigeon (Photo: B. Walsh).
It is of significant interest that two northern quoll specimens (Dasuyrus hallucatus)
(Plate 27), have been handed into DERM from the township of Tambo during the
time of this project. As the town is surrounded by stock route with remnant
vegetation, it is most probable that these specimens inhabited this habitat. These
specimens would be the western most records in Queensland of this priority species.
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Plate 27. Northern quoll (Photo: T. Hughes).
Squatter pigeon (Geophaps scripta) (Plate 28) were also recorded at Lake Galilee,
which would be close to the western extent of their range.
Plate 28. Squatter pigeon (Photo: B. Walsh).
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Two specimens of the Rare Collett’s snake (Pseudechis colletti), which is endemic to
the Mitchell Grass Downs, were found on stock routes. Both specimens were road
fatalities (Plate 29), and one was the largest specimen ever recorded (and was given
to the Queensland Museum by DCQ).
Plate 29. Steve Wilson (DCQ) holds up a Collett’s snake road fatality
(Photo: B. Walsh).
Major Mitchell’s cockatoos (Lophochroa leadbeateri) are a priority species and in the
Desert Channels NRM region they were observed in flocks of up to 25 during field
visits. However, these observations were always of cockatoos feeding
opportunistically on melons growing on the roadside, and these sites did not warrant
‘biodiversity hotspot’ status.
In the Desert Channels NRM region cane toads appear to be encroaching from the
east as well as from the north, and are now in the upper catchments of the Warrego
and Maranoa Rivers.
Lastly, a confirmed sighting of a western taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus) was
made by DCQ staff along the Bedourie – Birdsville stock route during April 2009.
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The South West NRM Region
Introduction
The South West NRM region covers an area of 186,200 square kilometres and four
catchments: the Bulloo, Paroo, Warrego, and Nebine Rivers. The Paroo, Warrego
and Nebine Rivers all eventually connect with the Darling River, which has both local
and national significance. In the NRM region there is representation of four
bioregions: the Mitchell Grass Downs, Channel Country, Brigalow belt, and the
majority of the area being Mulga Lands. Most of the residents in this region are in the
pastoral industry, tourism, some mining, and Charleville is a centre for kangaroo and
goat harvesting and processing.
A total of 51 sites were visited, 21 of which were biodiversity hotspots, three were of
high nature conservation value, and one site was of high geological value (Table 3
and Map 4).
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Site
1. Lake Dartmouth
2. Langlo Crossing
3. Ooline Park
4. Morven/Tregole Road
5. Mungallala/Mitchell
Road (1)
6. Mungallala/Mitchell
Road (2)
7. Morven/Tregonning
Road
8. Bundoona Springs
9. Currawinya National
Park
10. Lake Bindegolly
National Park
11. Ward River
12. Bakers Bend
13. Dillalah Waterhole
14. Boatman Road (1)
15. Boatman Road (2)
16. Boatman Road (3)
17. Boatman Road (4)
18. Boatman Road (5)
19. Riversleigh Road
20. Angelalla
21.Charleville/Augathella
Road
22. Oak Swamp
Recommendation
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Local Government Area
Quilpie Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Murweh Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Murweh Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Paroo Shire
Bulloo Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Bulloo Shire
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Biodiversity Hotspot
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
Murweh Shire
High Nature Conservation Murweh Shire
Value
23. Adavale Escarpment
High Nature Conservation Quilpie Shire
Value
24. Tego Springs
High Nature Conservation Paroo Shire
Value
25. Yowah Creek
Area of High Geological
Paroo Shire
Value
26. Murra Murra
Further Research
Paroo Shire
Table 3. Biodiversity hotspots and sites of high nature conservation and geological
values in the South West NRM Region.
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Map 4. Biodiversity hotspots of the South West NRM Region.
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Biodiversity hotspots
Site 1. Lake Dartmouth (Charleville – Adavale Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M503
Plants:
native liquorice (Glycyrrhiza acanthocarpa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
QUILPIE SHIRE
Lake Dartmouth (Plate 30) covers approximately 10,000 hectares and was made a
nature refuge during the time of this project. It is also listed under the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 as a wetland of national
importance, and gives rise to Ambathalla Creek which is part of the Warrego River
catchment.
The lake only floods periodically (the last flood is believed to be in 1989, Neil Marks,
pers. comm.), but when it floods it transforms into a dynamic semi-arid wetland
teeming with birdlife, which retains water for many years. The yellowbelly fish
(Macquaria ambigua) found in Lake Dartmouth are extremely slow growing and some
work has been undertaken to determine if they are a unique sub-species. Bi-valve
mussels are also prolific in the system, and there is evidence of Aboriginal
occupation in the form of broken grind stones.
At the time of the project, the lake dried back to holes along Ambathalla creek.
However, this freshly exposed ground is suitable to the growth of native liquorice
(Glycyrrhiza acanthocarpa) (Plate 31), which was both present and abundant in
January – February 2009.
Plate 30. Lake Dartmouth (with native liquorice in the foreground) (Photo: B. Walsh).
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Plate 31. Native liquorice flower (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to Lake Dartmouth are overgrazing from cattle and
goats, and habitat degradation by weeds. Predation from feral cats, foxes and dogs
is a threat to other fauna that are attracted to the area during and after floods.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The site is being managed by the adjoining
landholders, and is now a nature refuge.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The stock route that crosses this site is classified as active,
and traverses the northern end of the lake. It is recommended that droving permits
emphasise expedient crossing of this section of the lake system, and prohibit the
overnight camping of stock along this section in order to maintain water quality and
prevent overgrazing of bluebush (Chenopodium auricomum). It would be of benefit if
the section of stock route that traverses the lake could also be included in the
management of the nature refuge management, especially in respect to the control of
pests and weeds.
The threat of predators to ground-nesting birds from feral cats, foxes and dogs can
be addressed by co-operative pest and weed management between the adjacent
landholders, Quilpie Shire Council and DERM. Although feral goats and rabbits also
have the potential to impact on vegetation, the current practice of goat harvesting
appears to be keeping goats under control.
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Site 2. Langlo Crossing (Charleville – Adavale Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M503
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii)
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
Langlo Crossing (Plate 32) was once a thriving community of which there is no
evidence today. The red gums and coolabahs along the extensive riparian edges are
some of the largest to be seen in the region, and in excellent condition. Koalas
(Phascolarctos cinereus) are known to live in this location, and other common
species of wildlife are abundant.
In the past, Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii) were caught here frequently,
and recently there has been another sighting. The Charleville Fishing and Restocking
Club (CFRC), in conjunction with DEEDI, are proposing to restock these historic
aquatic sites with cod. The CFRC is also participating in ‘catch and release’ recording
of Murray cod with DEEDI, which is an invaluable monitoring tool. Water quality and
retention of snags is of paramount importance to this species and all other aquatic
native species.
Plate 32. Langlo Crossing on the Langlo River (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle of the riparian
area that reduces water quality, habitat degradation by weeds, and overfishing.
Additionally, carp (Cyprinus carpio) are found throughout this aquatic system and
compete and displace Murray cod.
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CURRENT MANAGEMENT: In conjunction with the DEEDI, the CFRC monitors
Murray cod at known locations on a recreational basis.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The most practical and effective management option for
Murray cod at this site is to support the ongoing work of the CFRC and DEEDI.
Static grazing permits of this site, or any reserves adjacent to aquatic refugia, should
be restricted or carefully monitored to avoid overgrazing and siltation of these critical
habitats.
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Site 3. Ooline Park (Mungalalla – Mitchell)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P002
Plants:
ooline (Cadellia pentasylis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
Ooline Park (Plate 33) is already recognised by the Queensland Department of
Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) with a location sign for tourists and basic
amenities. There is a healthy stand of ooline trees (Cadellia pentasylis) on both sides
of the road, with the majority on the southern side (which is about 200 m wide and
not as eroded).
This site is on a primary active stock route, and many herds of up to 2,500 cattle
were driven along this route to the Roma market during 2008-2009. Fortunately stock
are usually driven on the northern side of the road (the side with the fewest ooline
trees), as there is a watering dam on this side of the reserve.
Plate 33. Ooline Park (Photo: B. Walsh).
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THREATS: The major threats to Ooline Park are overgrazing by cattle, habitat
degradation by rabbits (which leads to erosion), collectors of wood for both firewood
and wood-turning, inappropriate fire regime, and habitat degradation from weeds
such as harrisia cactus (Eriocereus sp.) (Plate 34).
Although gravel extraction for road maintenance and construction is not currently
occurring at this site, it has happened in the past and is a potential future threat.
Because ooline grows on gravely ridges, which are rare in this black soil country and
so are often sites favoured by road crews as sites to extract gravel. Therefore it is
important all regional council and DTMR road crews are made aware of the
identification of ooline and encouraged to mitigate the impacts of any potential gravel
extraction.
Plate 34. Harrisia cactus (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Murweh Shire Council is well aware of the priority
species and issues along this section, and has devoted additional resources to
controlling harrisia cactus.
RECOMMENDATIONS: This stock route comes under more pressure than most, as
it is the site where stock routes converge before cattle are driven to the Roma
market. Consequently, the high density of cattle compounds the conservation threats
to the site and Murweh Shire Council will need additional support for the
management of these threats.
As the erosion on the upper side of the watering dam (situated on the northern side
of the road) is quite pronounced, it will need remedial action with some diversion
earthworks and restoration. Consideration should be given to the removal of the dam,
as its present location is a traffic hazard because cattle gather around this watering
point and some animal spill on to the road (stock fatalities have previously occurred
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