Download ENHANCING BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOTS

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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here), and if a new watering point was established further towards Mitchell this
difference in distance would not disadvantage drovers.
It is also recommended that there should be no camping of stock overnight in the
vicinity and stock should be expedited through the park. This would not
inconvenience drovers either as there is minimal stock feed at this site. Designated
overnight camping zones would prevent overgrazing of priority species, or trampling
of the habitat of another priority species – the collared delma (Delma torquata).
Consideration should be given to develop a comprehensive zoned management plan
along the Morven to Mitchell section of stock route P002, as there are five priority
species (ooline, womal (Acacia maranoensis), painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta),
collared delma (Delma torquata), and diamond firetail (Stagonopleura guttata)) and
three identified biodiversity hotspots along this route that are currently being
considered in isolation. Management of specific sites may need to include some
fencing of ooline and womal (Acacia maranoensis) in the more vulnerable locations.
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Site 4. Morven – Tregole Road (opposite Tregole Park)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U527
Plants:
ooline (Cadellia pentasylis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
This site is a triangular reserve on an inactive stock route opposite Tregole National
Park. It is one of the best stands of ooline (Cadellia pentasylis) (Plate 35) visited
during the field visits for this project, as the trees were abundant and intermixed with
bottle trees (Brachychiton rupestris). This reserve is approximately 300 metres by
100 metres, and as it is opposite Tregole National Park it has good connectivity. The
site also has a road on all sides that provides good protection from wildfires.
Plate 35. Ooline trees (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this reserve are overgrazing by cattle, habitat
degradation by rabbits, inappropriate fire regime, collectors (for both firewood and
wood turning), and habitat degradation by weeds.
CURRENT MANEGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that there needs to be negotiations
between Murweh Shire Council and DTMR to recognise this site as an area of ‘no
disturbance’, which would avoid accidental clearance or gravel extraction. Inclusion
of the site in the shire pest and weed management programme is also
recommended.
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Site 5. Mungalala – Mitchell Road (1) (Warrego Highway)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P002
Plants:
ooline (Cadellia pentasylis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
Although the ooline trees (Cadellia pentasylis) at this site are scattered along either
side of the highway, they do however consist of both mature and regenerating trees,
and so the site is valuable as a biodiversity hotspot.
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle, habitat
degradation by rabbits, wood collectors, inappropriate fire regime, gravel extraction,
road widening, and habitat degradation by weeds.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None. Although along the nearby section of the
Warrego Highway there is work being undertaken by Murweh Shire Council to
address weeds, especially harrisia cactus (Eriocereus sp.), which is part of the weed
control for Ooline Park (site 3, pp. 62-64).
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for Ooline Park, it is recommended that there needs to
be negotiations between Murweh Shire Council and DTMR to recognise this site as
an area of ‘no disturbance’, which would avoid accidental clearance or gravel
extraction. Inclusion of the site in the shire pest and weed management programme
is also recommended.
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Site 6. Mungalala – Mitchell Road (2) (Warrego Highway)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P002
Plants:
womal (Acacia maranoensis).
Animals:
painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
At this site womal (Acacia maranoensis) is spread along the sides of the Warrego
Highway, where it is more abundant than ooline and widely spread about the district
as well. Growing off the womal trees is grey mistletoe (Amyema quandang), which is
a favourite of the painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta) – another priority species
which has been sighted in this location. There is actually an overlap with ooline along
the Warrego Highway, resulting in five priority species in one extended stretch of
highway (womal, ooline, painted honeyeater, collared delma (Delma torquata), and
diamond firetail (Stagonopleura guttata)).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing and disturbance (Plate 36)
by cattle, habitat degradation by rabbits, inappropriate fire regime, and habitat
degradation by weeds.
Plate 36. Overnight cattle stock camp after rain (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Murweh Shire Council concentrates on this length of
stock route for weed management.
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RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that Murweh Shire Council maintain their
weed management along this length of stock route, and that this be included in a
management plan for all the biodiversity hotspots along this stock route (as
mentioned under site 3, Ooline Park). Permits given for the movement of stock along
this route need to emphasise that overnight camping of stock should avoid these
sites where possible, as womal is quite palatable to stock and the regenerating plants
at this site could easily be consumed by cattle.
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Site 7. Morven – Tregonning Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M570
Plants:
womal (Acacia maranoensis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
This site is on a back road that is rated as an active stock route, but as with many of
these sites it is virtually inactive. The womal trees (Acacia maranoensis) at this site
are scattered over a wide area (Plate 37), but consist of both mature and
regenerating trees. Additionally, there was good connectivity with habitat on adjoining
private land.
Plate 37. Womal (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle, habitat
degradation by rabbits, inappropriate fire regime, gravel extraction, and habitat
degradation by weeds. There is also a borrow pit in the middle of a mature stand of
trees.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that the borrow pit be phased out as
further expansion of the pit will cause more trees to be removed.
Some priority species, such as womal in this area, are often locally common, and it is
recommended that awareness programmes for field-based council staff would be
useful to raise awareness of the value of these species as well as their management
needs.
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Site 8. Bundoona Springs (Eulo – Toompine Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U512
Plants:
Hydrocotyle dipleura, and
Myriophyllum artesium.
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
PAROO SHIRE
This spring is located in open mulga country adjacent to a drainage line on the stock
route (Plate 38), and is one of the group that makes up Bundoona Springs. It is a
large, shallow and vegetated spring, which is well known as it has long been studied
for its endemic species.
Plate 38. Bundoona Springs (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this spring are reduced flow and habitat degradation
from water draw-down, overgrazing and trampling by cattle, rooting and wallowing
damage by feral pigs, competition between introduced Gambusia fish and native
aquatic fauna, and habitat degradation by weeds.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is acknowledged that all springs are not the same, and
best practice management may vary from spring to spring. It must also be
acknowledged that these springs existed with their endemic species before the
arrival of Europeans, livestock and invasive species such as feral animals and
weeds.
Inadequate information exists to make recommendations on best practice
management for this spring. However, it is recommended that an enclosure be
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established on part of the spring to study the effects of excluding cattle and feral pigs.
The results from this enclosure would give a benchmark from which to monitor the
impacts of cattle and pigs that might occur at this spring. This recommendation is
based on the success of excluding cattle and pigs at Tego spring in Culgoa
Floodplains National Park (page 98) that resulted in the return of plant species
including the Rare Sporobolus partimpatens (Craig Eddy, pers. comm.). Similarly the
condition of Elizabeth Springs in the Desert Channels NRM region has improved
markedly with the use of fencing to exclude cattle (Steve Wilson, pers. comm.).
At the time of this project, negotiations were being undertaken with the adjoining
owners to make the springs a nature refuge. If this proceeds, it is recommended that
this spring be included in that nature refuge.
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Site 9. Currawinya National Park (Stock Route)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U510
Animals:
painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BULLOO SHIRE
The stock route that runs through Currawinya National Park is narrow, unused, and
the connectivity is continuous. Painted honeyeaters (Grantiella picta) are regularly
sighted along the route and feed on the mistletoe Amyema quandang (Plate 39),
which grows prolifically on the mulga trees.
Plate 39. The mistletoe Amyema quandang (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are browsing by goats (that can prevent
regeneration of mulga on which the mistletoe Amyema quandang grows), and
predation of native fauna by feral cats. Inappropriate fire regime is a potential threat.
It is possible that apiary activities outside the park may be competing with the painted
honeyeaters for nectar as a food source.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: This stock route comes under the management of
Currawinya National Park.
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RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that DERM’s current management
activities be maintained, and that the site would benefit from a more coordinated
approach to pest management between Bulloo Shire Council and DERM.
At the time of the project, surveys were being undertaken by Birds Australia Birdata
in the southern part of the South West NRM region. An opportunity may exist from
the results of this survey to identify additional sites for the painted honeyeater.
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Site 10. Lake Bindegolly (Eulo – Thargomindah Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U508
Animals:
Australasian bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus),
Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis), and
painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
BULLOO SHIRE
Lake Bindegolly (Plate 40) is a string of salt and freshwater wetlands in Lake
Bindegolly National Park that dries out approximately every decade. The lakes are a
major haven for waterbirds including the priority species Australasian bittern
(Botaurus poiciloptilus), Australian painted snipe (Rostratula australis) and painted
honeyeater (Grantiella picta), and other species of interest such as the Rare freckled
duck (Stictonetta naevosa) and the Vulnerable plant Acacia ammophila.
The stock route cuts the system in half, but the stock route is inactive. A tourist
information bay has been established as the area is popular with tourists, and use of
the stock routes for tourism is well supported by the Bulloo Shire Council.
Plate 40. Lake Bindegolly with an approaching storm in the distance
(Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to Lake Bindegolly are predation by feral cats, foxes
and dogs, habitat degradation by rabbits, weeds, feral pigs and feral goats, and
overgrazing by livestock (both sheep and cattle).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Lake Bindegolly comes under the management of Lake
Bindegolly National Park.
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RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that DERM’s current management
activities be maintained, and that wherever possible pest and weed control be
coordinated with those of the Bulloo Shire Council. It is also suggested that
consideration be given to the installation of cattle grids along the main road to
prevent the continuous drifting of livestock into the national park.
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Site 11. Ward River (Charleville – Quilpie Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M507
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
The Ward River waterhole and adjacent reserve is a favourite recreational site for the
people of Charleville. The Charleville Fishing and Restocking Club (CFRC) in
conjunction with the DEEDI, are also active at this site with a catch and release
programme for Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii) (Plates 41 and 42), and
undertake restocking of the cod at well known waterholes.
Due to the ephemeral nature of all rivers and creeks in western Queensland, fish
stocks tend to retreat to these known refugia in the dry times to await the next wet
season and flooding event. The river at this site on Ward River is about seven metres
deep at the bridge, and averages about four metres in depth across the waterhole.
Such waterholes of this depth and dimension are not common and are extremely
important to all species they support, especially Murray cod.
Plate 41. A juvenile Murray cod (Photo: G. Walsh).
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THREATS: The major threats to this site on the Ward River are overgrazing of the
riparian edge by cattle, overfishing, introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can
compete with and displace Murray cod, habitat degradation from water extraction,
and erosion where visitors drive off the access road. The removal of snags, which
removes an important feature of the habitat for Murray cod, is a potential threat.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Murweh Shire Council maintains road access off the
main highway to the river bank. The CFRC maintain an informal recreational
monitoring, restocking and catch and release programme for Murray cod.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is important to support and maintain the current actions to
conserve Murray cod that are undertaken by the CFRC and DEEDI.
It would be highly beneficial to control carp in this waterhole, as has been planned by
South West NRM who are attempting to initiate carp management projects in the
Warrego River and its tributaries such as the Ward River.
Droving permits should stipulate no overnight camping of stock on the Ward River in
order to avoid siltation and deterioration of water quality. Static grazing of this stock
route reserve should be declined or limited in the interests of public usage and the
avoidance of siltation.
Similarly to other locations in western Queensland, this site is reaching the point
where the local council will need to consider a management plan to address visitor
impacts from camping, pollution, rubbish, and firewood collection.
Plate 42. The CFRC releasing Murray cod fingerlings (Photo: D. Clark).
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Site 12. Bakers Bend (Warrego River)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P052
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
Bakers Bend is one of the largest waterholes on the Warrego River, and a popular
local and tourist destination. This is major refugia for aquatic species, such as Murray
cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii), and averages about six metres deep. The stock
route runs on both sides of the river, and is classified as active but has not been used
for some years. The riparian vegetation is mostly healthy, old growth trees, with the
exception of some eroded sites, and is a known habitat for koala (Phascolarctos
cinereus) and sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps).
THREATS: The major threats to Bakers Bend are overfishing, habitat degradation
from water extraction, introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can compete with and
displace Murray cod, and siltation from erosion that is exacerbated by feral goats
(Plate 43).
Plate 43. Erosion at Bakers Bend (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: The CFRC, under guidance from DEEDI, conduct
recreational monitoring, restocking and catch and release for Murray cod (Plate 44).
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Plate 44. Tagging a mature Murray cod for release (Photo: D. Clark).
RECOMMENDATIONS: The removal of goats from the badly eroded areas,
combined with some earthworks/fencing, would greatly contribute to restore some of
the damage to this site and reduce siltation of the river.
As for the Ward River biodiversity hotspot (site 11, pp. 76-77), it would be highly
beneficial to control carp at this waterhole, as has been planned by South West NRM
who are attempting to initiate carp management projects in the Warrego River and its
tributaries.
It is important to support and maintain the current actions to conserve Murray cod
that are undertaken by the CFRC (with guidance from DEEDI).
Recent fish surveys by DEEDI indicated that Bakers Bend has very little structure on
the bottom of the river, which denies hatchling cod and other native species
protective habitat. It is strongly recommended that consideration be given to the
reintroduction of snags to improve the habitat of this aquatic refuge.
Concern has been expressed by the CFRC and others that there is a decline in
freshwater catfish (Tandanus tandanus) throughout the Warrego and Paroo River
systems. It would be prudent to monitor the populations of this species and identify
any causes of any decline, as it may have implications for other native species as
well.
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Site 13. Dillalah Waterhole (Warrego River)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P052
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
The bridge at Dillalah crossing traverses another well known waterhole on the
Warrego River for Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii). This waterhole averages
approximately five metres deep and has plenty of fallen trees and overhangs of tree
roots that create good cod habitat. An active stock route runs down either side of the
river, but the majority of stock traditionally travels down the eastern side. The riparian
vegetation is in very good condition and is known to be a habitat for koala
(Phascolarctos cinereus) (Plate 45).
Plate 45. Koala at Boatman Station (Photo: N. Davies).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle that can affect the
water quality, habitat degradation from pig rooting and wallowing, siltation from
erosion, overfishing, and introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can compete with
and displace Murray cod. Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) (Plate 46) is an emerging
threat that exists downstream at Cunnamulla, which has the potential to be
transported upstream by wildlife.
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Plate 46. Water lettuce at Cunnamulla Weir (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: Access to the site is maintained by Murweh Shire
Council, and the monitoring of Murray cod is undertaken by CFRC and DEEDI.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for the Ward River biodiversity hotspot (site 11), it would
be highly beneficial to control carp at this waterhole, as has been planned by South
West NRM who are attempting to initiate carp management projects in the Warrego
River and its tributaries.
It is important to support and maintain the current actions to conserve Murray cod
that are undertaken by the CFRC (with guidance from DEEDI).
Water lettuce occurs at the Cunnamulla Weir in Paroo Shire, where the Paroo Shire
Council is taking action to eradicate this weed. However, biological control has not
yet been introduced and should be considered and integrated with the current
mechanical work being undertaken.
The Cunnamulla Weir is an acknowledged fish barrier and careful consideration
should be given to the installation of a suitable fish ladder, which is supported by the
Paroo Shire Council. However, if implemented, care needs to be taken that it does
not become a harvest site by default. South West NRM has previously proposed
such a ladder for the Warrego and the Paroo Rivers (which has a similar barrier at
Eulo).
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Site 14. Boatman Road (1) (Charleville – Bollon Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
There have been several sites along the Boatman Road which are biodiversity
hotspots for yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) (Plate 47). The sites look very
inhospitable, and it is difficult to imagine there is enough insect life to sustain such a
large skink.
Confirmation of the sites was made with DERM expertise. Determination of presence
and abundance was made from live trapping by DERM, which has given confidence
in identification of the sites along the Boatman Road as suitable habitat.
The yakka skink is mostly diurnal and very opportunistic. They make use of rabbit
holes/warrens where they co-exist, as well as pushed-up roadside debris for habitat
for sheltering and breeding. It usually constructs additional holes at the extremities of
the warren for its usage.
Plate 47. Yakka skink (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
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RECOMMENDATIONS: Yakka skinks are distributed over a vast area of
Queensland, and to mitigate their threats will require the control of feral predators,
appropriate fire regimes, and the protection of their habitat from road maintenance.
As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90),
the priority actions at this site would be to include this location in the pest control
activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire Council, and to protect
this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road works and rabbit
control.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
It is also strongly recommend that a population survey of yakka skinks be undertaken
to map current populations, as isolated healthy populations may need more intensive
protection.
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Site 15. Boatman Road (2) (Charleville – Bollon Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90),
this site included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia rugosa) in a
monospecific stand of mulga with no understorey (Plate 48). Yakka skink scats, both
fresh and stale, indicated the presence and abundance of this species. Additionally,
this site had good connectivity with habitat on the surrounding land.
Plate 48. Active rabbit warren with yakka skinks (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road
(sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90), the priority actions at this site would be to include this
location in the pest control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire
Council, and to protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road
works and rabbit control.
84
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
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Site 16. Boatman Road (3) (Charleville – Bollon Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90),
this site included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia rugosa) in a
monospecific stand of mulga with no understorey. Yakka skink scats (Plate 49), both
fresh and stale, indicated the presence and abundance of this species. Additionally,
there were good landscape linkages at this site with mulga trees in all directions.
Plate 49. Yakka skink scats (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road
(sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90), the priority actions at this site would be to include this
location in the pest control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire
Council, and to protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road
works and rabbit control.
86
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
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Site 17. Boatman Road (4) (Charleville – Bollon Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90),
this site included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia rugosa) (Plate
50) in a monospecific stand of mulga with no understorey. A search of the
surrounding area found stale scats that indicated yakka skink activity.
Plate 50. Yakka skink (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road
(sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90), the priority actions at this site would be to include this
location in the pest control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire
Council, and to protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road
works and rabbit control.
88
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
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Site 18. Boatman Road (5) (Charleville – Bollon Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90),
this site included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia rugosa) in a
monospecific stand of mulga with no understorey.
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with other biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road
(sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90), the priority actions at this site would be to include this
location in the pest control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire
Council, and to protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road
works and rabbit control.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
90
Site 19. Riversleigh Road (Boatman – Cunnamulla Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U485
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with the biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18), this site
included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia rugosa). During the field
visit, a further search of the immediate area revealed an additional active site, also in
a rabbit burrow, that suggests a small colony of yakka skink in the area.
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with the biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites
14 – 18), the priority actions at this site would be to include this location in the pest
control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire Council, and to
protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road works and
rabbit control.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
91
Site 20. Angelalla (Bollon – Riversleigh junction)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M528
Animals:
Major Mitchell’s cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri)
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
It was difficult to identify biodiversity hotspots for Major Mitchell’s cockatoo
(Lophochroa leadbeateri) (Plate 51). This bird was observed at a number of sites
during field visits, including along the stock route on Boatman Road, but, given that
this species is highly mobile in their search for food, at most sites sightings were not
enough evidence to identify the location as a biodiversity hotspot for this bird.
Repeated sightings of flocks of up to 20 Major Mitchell’s cockatoo, and observations
of them feeding fledgling young, around the Angelalla site was evidence that this
section of stock route is at least a linked part of a larger biodiversity hotspot for this
bird. Additionally, where Angelalla Creek and stock route intersect there is a large
permanent waterhole with ideal nesting hollows along the riparian edges, and Major
Mitchell’s cockatoo are known to have a strong fidelity to nesting sites.
Plate 51 Major Mitchell’s cockatoo with crest extension (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to Major Mitchell’s cockatoo at this site are the removal
of nesting hollows from the clearing / pulling of mulga trees, high intensity fires that
can removing nesting trees, predation from feral cats, and road fatalities (Plate 52) as
the birds are reluctant to take flight when feeding on paddy melons found on the road
verge (Plate 53).
92
Plate 52. Major Mitchell’s cockatoo road fatality (Photo: B. Walsh).
Plate 53. Major Mitchell’s cockatoo feeding on a desert paddy melon on the road
verge (Photo: B. Walsh).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
93
RECOMMENDATIONS: The South West NRM region has a number of sites where
Major Mitchell’s cockatoo are regularly sighted. However, further research needs to
be done to identify the biodiversity hotspots for this species, in both the South West
and Desert Channels NRM regions and to determine how the stock routes relate in
respect to the connectivity and linkage of these sites. As this species have a strong
fidelity for nesting hollows, a first step would be to survey and map the known nesting
sites.
Recommended management actions for the Angelalla site are protecting nesting
trees from being pulled, encouraging a low intensity fires, and coordinated control of
feral cats.
At the Angelalla site priority should be given to protecting the area from any clearing
of vegetation.
94
Site 21. Charleville – Augathella Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P051
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
Woma (Aspidites ramsayi) are also known to occur in
area.
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
MURWEH SHIRE
As with the biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites 14 – 18, pp. 82-90), this
site north of Charleville included a rabbit warren occupied by yakka skinks (Egernia
rugosa), and mulga trees growing in red sandy soil with little or no understorey.
THREATS: The major threats to the yakka skink at this site are predation from feral
cats, foxes and dogs, inappropriate fire regime, the destruction of the habitat by road
works, and the destruction of the habitat if the rabbit warren are ripped up (if rabbit
numbers rise and control is implemented).
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As with the biodiversity hotspots along Boatman Road (sites
14 – 18, pp. 82-90), the priority actions at this site would be to include this location in
the pest control activities for feral predators implemented by Murweh Shire Council,
and to protect this habitat from any destructive impacts caused by any road works
and rabbit control.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
95
Sites of high nature conservation and geological
values
Site 22. Oak Swamp (Charleville Adavale Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M503
Unknown
HIGH NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE
MURWEH SHIRE
Oak Swamp (Plate 54) is periodically inundated when Lake Dartmouth overflows (last
believed to have occurred in 1989), and appears to be in-excess of a square
kilometre in size. The active stock route here traverses a dense, attractive swamp of
belah trees (Casuarina cristata), which is believed to be at the extremity of this
species’ western distribution. The site is worth further investigation, as it may support
priority species, and belah is a favourite food source of red-tailed black-cockatoos
(Calyptorhynchus banksii).
Plate 54. Oak Swamp (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are inappropriate fire regime. Road
widening is a minor threat
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: There is no current management of this site, but it is
recognised by DTMR as a significant site.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that Oak Swamp be recognised as being
of high nature conservation value and left undisturbed, and that a closer survey be
made to determine the flora and fauna values.
96
Site 23. Adavale Escarpment (Adavale – Blackall Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M302
Animals:
yellow-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus
celeris).
HIGH NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE
QUILPIE SHIRE
The Adavale Escarpment (Plate 55) is classified as an active stock route although no
cattle have been over this route for many years. The stock route and road converge
to descend down an attractive conglomerate escarpment with a drop of some 30
metres. The area has records of yellow-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus
celeris), although none were seen during the field visit. During the field visit a
peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was sighted launching from the escarpment, and
undoubtedly falcon eyries exist around its perimeter.
Plate 55. Adavale Escarpment / Blackall Road (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: Feral goats have taken over the top of the escarpment, are dramatically
impacting on the vegetation, and have possibly displaced most macropods.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: There is the urgent need to remove the goats from the
Adavale Escarpment. A closer survey is also needed to determine if yellow-footed
rock-wallaby still exist at the site, and if so, to determine strategies for their
protection.
97
24. Tego Springs (Culgoa Floodplain)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M523
Unknown
HIGH NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE
PAROO SHIRE
Tego Springs in Culgoa Floodplains National Park is of special interest as it has
records of plant life before and after a pig-proof fence was constructed (Plate 56).
Prior to the construction of the pig-proof fence, the spring was overgrazed and
trampled by cattle and feral animals with only three plants recorded for the site.
Eighteen months after the fence was constructed an additional 37 plants were
recorded including the Rare Sporobolus partimpatens.
Plate 56. The pig-proof fencing around Tego Springs (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are habitat degradation from water drawdown, and the table drain off the nearby road that directs water into the springs which
is altering the water quality and the species composition.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: This site comes under the management of Culgoa
Floodplains National Park.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that DERM’s current management
activities be maintained, that options to reduce road water-off are investigated, and
that this site be used as a positive example of the conservation benefits of fencing
around a spring
98
25. Yowah Creek (Eulo – Thargomindah Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M508
Unknown
AREA OF HIGH GEOLOGICAL VALUE
PAROO SHIRE
The Yowah Creek site is where a fault line runs in a westerly direction along the
stock route from Eulo and crosses Yowah Creek. Records show that this site
contains mound springs, but the majority are mud springs with a dried surface which
is easily penetrated revealing viscous, grey mud. The mounds stand between two to
three metres in height, and have a circular base with a diameter of approximately 10
– 20 metres. Little or no water seeps from the majority of the mounds, but they are of
geological interest and a tourist attraction.
THREATS: The threats to this site, such as water draw-down, are unknown.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: There is no current management at this site. Some of
the other springs close to Eulo are fenced-off, but the majority are not.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that the spring on the eastern side of
Yowah Creek be re-fenced (it had been fenced off many years ago and has since
fallen into disrepair), as it appears to be a spring with different characteristics and
has held water. It would also be advisable to make sure that visitor management to
the springs in the area limits any potential negative impacts.
Sites recommended for further research
26. Murra Murra
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U527
Unknown
FURTHER RESEARCH
PAROO SHIRE
This site is a potential biodiversity hotspot that warrants further research, as it has a
number of natural values but no confirmed sightings of priority species.
The site adjoins the properties of Murra Murra and Bendee Downs, which are owned
by the Kooma Traditional Owners and have part of their area dedicated as a nature
refuge and an indigenous protected area. There is also a rich cultural heritage
throughout the area.
Priority species that could occur at this stock route site are yakka skink (Egernia
rugosa), diamond firetail (Stagonopleura guttata), and painted honeyeaters
(Grantiella picta). Major Mitchell’s cockatoos (Lophochroa leadbeateri) are frequently
sighted along this stock route, but as stated for the Angelalla biodiversity hotspot (site
20, pp. 92-94), given the mobility of this species it is difficult to identify their hotspots
unless nesting sites can also be identified.
99
THREATS: The threats to this site would include inappropriate fire regime, clearing
of vegetation that would remove potential nesting hollows, predation by feral cats,
and road fatalities.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As there is no information on the nesting sites of Major
Mitchell’s cockatoos, or other priority species, at this site, further surveys are required
to identify any presence and confirm their threats.
If the presence of priority species were confirmed and the site met the criteria as a
biodiversity hotspot, then the protection of this habitat would be important because of
the probable value of the site itself as well as the linkages it has with adjoining
habitat.
100
Additional findings
The majority of Major Mitchell’s cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri) sightings during
the field visit for this project were in the South West NRM region. They showed a
distinct preference that this species has for country commonly known as ‘soft mulga’
with its distinctive red sandy soils (i.e. red Kandosols and red Chromosols soils).
These soils have nutrient limitations which may benefit the wildlife as it limits the
introduction of invasive grasses, such as buffel grass (Pennisetum ciliare), enabling a
favourite food source of these cockatoos, the desert paddy melon (Zehneria
micrantha), to thrive on disturbed ground.
There seems to be reluctance throughout most of the regions of western Queensland
to use fire as a management tool for the maintenance of biodiversity. The lack of
appropriate fire regimes is inhibiting flora species, as certain fire regimes are required
to maintain biodiversity. This is a topic that needs greater consideration as a
management option, especially for the stock routes that retain remnant vegetation in
otherwise cleared country, as many species are threatened by a lack of appropriate
fire regimes (Dyer et al., 2001).
101
The Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM
Region
Introduction
The Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM region is approximately 100,300 square
kilometres in size, and includes the catchments of the Maranoa, Balonne, Moonie,
Macintyre, and Weir Rivers. In this region the Brigalow Belt is proportionally the
largest bioregion, with other bioregions including Mulga lands and New England
tablelands. There are six local government areas within this region with a population
of approximately 54,600 people, and the main employment areas are in pastoral,
cropping, some tourism, and the extractive industries including gas and mining.
Twelve biodiversity hotspots were identified during field visits across the Border
Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM region (Table 4 and Map 5).
Site
Recommendation
Local Government Area
1. Barakula
Biodiversity Hotspot
Dalby Regional Council
2. Mitchell/Dunkeld Road Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
3. Mitchell/Bollon Road
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
4. Mitchell/Forestvale
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
Road
5. Womalilla Creek
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
6. Surat/Balonne River
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
7. Green Trees Reserve
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
8. Wylara Waterhole
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
9. Beranga Reserve
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
10. Surat/Glenmorgan
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
Road
11. Jackson/Wandoan
Biodiversity Hotspot
Roma Regional Council
Road
Table 4. Biodiversity hotspots in the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM Region.
102
Map 5. Biodiversity hotspots of the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM Region.
103
Biodiversity hotspots
Site 1. Barakula (Chinchilla – Auburn Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U713
Animals:
golden-tailed gecko (Strophurus taenicauda),
diamond firetail (Stagonopleura guttata), and
yellow-bellied glider (southern subspecies) (Petaurus
australis australis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
DALBY REGIONAL SHIRE
This site is where an unused stock route follows the road through the Barakula State
Forest (Plate 57). The forest is in good condition, with records of the priority species
golden-tailed gecko (Strophurus taenicauda), diamond firetail (Stagonopleura
guttata), and yellow-bellied glider (southern subspecies) (Petaurus australis
australis). There were also other species sighted during the field visit including plumheaded finch (Neochmia modesta), olive-backed oriole (Oriolus sagittatus), leaden
flycatcher (Myiagra rubecula) and rufous whistler (Pachycephala rufiventris). Both the
confirmed species, and local knowledge that confirmed the richness of the forest and
its biodiversity, was strong evidence to select this site as a biodiversity hotspot.
Plate 57. Barakula State Forest (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are predation of native fauna by feral cats
and foxes. As the presence of the priority species indicates that the current fire
regime is working well, a potential threat is changing the current fire regime.
104
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: This stock route comes under the management of
Barakula State Forest
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that DERM’s current management
activities be maintained, and that the site would benefit from a more coordinated
approach to pest management between Dalby Regional Shire Council and DERM.
Given the number of species at this site, a future survey would probably confirm the
presence of additional priority species.
105
Site 2. Mitchell – Dunkeld Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
S716
Plants:
womal (Acacia maranoensis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
This site on the Mitchell – Dunkeld Road is scattered a considerable distance over an
active stock route, with stands of womal (Acacia maranoensis) (Plate 58) that
includes both mature and regenerating trees. This site also has good habitat
connectivity with the surrounding landscape.
Plate 58. Womal trees (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are inappropriate fire regime, and habitat
degradation by weeds.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The key recommendation or this site is to include it in the
Roma Regional Council pest and weed management programme as a site for control
actions. Care needs to be taken with any stock route / road management that burns
the verge, in order to protect the regeneration of the womal trees. As livestock have
not travelled this route for many years, there is minimal threat from overgrazing.
106
Site 3. Mitchell – Bollon Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U571
Plants:
womal (Acacia maranoensis)
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL.
At this site along the Mitchell – Bollon Road, a stand of womal (Acacia maranoensis)
thinly stretches over several kilometres of the stock route, is interspersed with other
trees such as brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) and myall (Acacia pendula). There is
good habitat connectivity extending with the adjoining land. Interestingly, further
along the Mitchell – Bollon Road the womal overlaps with ooline (Cadellia
pentasylis).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are inappropriate fire regime, and habitat
degradation by weeds. There is a minimal threat of overgrazing by cattle as the stock
route is currently inactive.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The priority recommendation for this site is to include it in
the Roma Regional Council pest and weed management programme, with emphasis
on weed control. Care needs to be taken with any stock route / road management
that burns the verge, in order to protect the regeneration of the womal trees.
107
4. Mitchell – Forestvale Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M701
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
Along the Mitchell – Forestvale Road there are some large stock route reserves that
have a dense cover of grass, including buffel grass (Pennisetum ciliare). Amongst
those reserves is this site, north of the dingo fence, which is heavily forested in
cypress pine (Callitris sp.) with minimal understorey in many sections. In this cypress
forest is an area of pushed up road material interspersed with dead branches that is
a habitat for yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) (Plate 59), whose healthy abundance
could be determined by the number of scats observed during the field visit.
Plate 59. Yakka skink (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are predation by feral cats, foxes and dogs,
and inappropriate fire regime.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The priority recommendation for this site is to include it in
the Roma Regional Council pest and weed management programme, with emphasis
on the control of feral predators.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
108
Site 5. Womalilla Creek (Off the Warrego Highway)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P002
Plants:
womal (Acacia maranoensis).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
This site is at a dead-end section of stock route that leads to a watering point on
Womalilla Creek. There is a healthy riparian flat and womal (Acacia maranoensis)
scattered over a wide area mixed with diverse number of plants including river red
gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis). During the field visit there was also a number of
bird species observed, including the largest flock of plum-headed finches (Neochmia
modesta) sighted during the project (approximately 100 birds).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are overgrazing by cattle, habitat
degradation by weeds, and inappropriate fire regime.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended that droving permits should emphasise
no camping stock at this site over night. (This does not appear to be occurring at
present).
As previously mentioned for the Ooline Park biodiversity hotspot (page 61), the P002
stock route is a special case because of the convergence of all stock along this
section en-route to Roma market. The Roma Regional Council is already giving this
stock route additional attention, and as for Ooline Park, a comprehensive zoned
management plan is recommended (see page 63). Care needs to be taken with any
stock route / road management that burns the verge, in order to protect the
regeneration of the womal trees.
109
Site 6. Surat – Balonne River
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P005
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
This site contains a large waterhole on the Balonne River that is on the approach to
the town of Surat. It has traditionally been a popular site for Murray cod
(Maccullochella peelii peelii), and similarly to the Charleville area, the cod is an icon
species amongst the locals. Many stock routes converge on Surat and along the
Balonne River, but the riparian vegetation of this site is healthy and, until recently,
had supported a colony of little red flying-fox (Pteropus scapulatus) (Plate 60).
Plate 60. Little red flying-fox colony on the Balonne River (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threat to this site are overgrazing by cattle that could reduce
the water quality, overfishing, and introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can
compete with and displace Murray cod.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: At this site there is monitoring and restocking of Murray
cod undertaken by the Surat Fishing Restocking Club in conjunction with DEEDI. As
with the community in Charleville, this strong local support for Murray cod is
beneficial for the species through monitoring and maintenance of the population.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for the biodiversity hotspots for Murray cod on the
Balonne River (sites 6-8, pp. 110-113), it is important to support and maintain the
current actions to conserve Murray cod that are undertaken by the Surat Fishing
Restocking Club and DEEDI.
110
Reports of past snag removal south of Surat is of concern, and a matter that should
be investigated.
In the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM region, the Queensland Murray Darling
Committee is most active in conducting ‘carp busting’ fishing competitions to remove
as many carp as possible from aquatic habitats. These events are usually
incorporated in catchment management programs that seek to improve water quality,
which is of additional benefit to Murray cod and other aquatic species. It would be of
benefit to expand these activities to this site and other known localities for Murray
cod in other regions.
The Invasive Animals CRC is researching control techniques on carp and other feral
species. As these threats overlap all the NRM regions covered by this project, it
would be valuable for all the NRM bodies of western Queensland to communicate
closely with this CRC in order to remain informed about current research and to try
and address these issues on a landscape scale.
111
Site 7. Green Trees Reserve (Surat – St. George Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P005
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
The Green Trees Reserve is a well-known recreational destination for locals from
Surat, and is an attractive riparian floodplain with a large lagoon adjacent to the
Balonne River. The waterhole located on this river is also a habitat for Murray cod
(Maccullochella peelii peelii).
THREATS: The major threat to this site are overgrazing by cattle that could reduce
the water quality, overfishing, and introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can
compete with and displace Murray cod. Additionally, snag removal has (that removes
an important feature of the habitat for Murray cod) been reported south of Surat.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: At this site there is monitoring and restocking of Murray
cod undertaken by the Surat Fishing Restocking Club in conjunction with DEEDI.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for the biodiversity hotspots for Murray cod on the
Balonne River (sites 6-8, pp. 110-113), it is important to support and maintain the
current actions to conserve Murray cod that are undertaken by the Surat Fishing
Restocking Club and DEEDI.
112
Site 8. Wylara Hole (Surat – St. George Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P005
Animals:
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
The Wylara Hole is one of the most popular local recreational sites, as it is close to
Surat and is known to have good population of Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii
peelii). The riparian vegetation at this site is in good condition, and snags (that
provide an important habitat for Murray cod) are more plentiful along this stretch of
the Balonne River.
THREATS: The major threat to this site are overgrazing by cattle that could reduce
the water quality, overfishing, and introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can
compete with and displace Murray cod. Additionally, snag removal has (that removes
an important feature of the habitat for Murray cod) been reported south of Surat.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: At this site there is monitoring and restocking of Murray
cod undertaken by the Surat Fishing Restocking Club in conjunction with DEEDI.
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for the biodiversity hotspots for Murray cod on the
Balonne River (sites 6-8, pp. 110-113), it is important to support and maintain the
current actions to conserve Murray cod that are undertaken by the Surat Fishing
Restocking Club and DEEDI.
113
Site 9. Beranga Reserve (Surat – Yuleba Road)
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
M705
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
The Beranga Reserve is known locally as “The Lilies” because of the lily coverage
over its lagoons (Plate 61). The reserve is rich in biodiversity, supported by old
growth riparian vegetation that is still intact and many good breeding hollows. Apart
from yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) there should be many other species that could be
identified at this site, because of the quality of the undisturbed habitat, and the site
warrants a closer survey to confirm them.
Plate 61. Beranga Reserve – “The Lilies” (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to this site are predation of native fauna by feral cats,
foxes and dogs, and habitat degradation by weeds.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The priority recommendation for this site is to include it in
the Roma Regional Council pest and weed management programme.
114
Site 10. Surat – Glenmorgan Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
P008
Animals:
yakka skink (Egernia rugosa).
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
This site on the stock route along the Surat – Glenmorgan Road has relatively intact
remnant vegetation on a harsh shale rise. It is a biodiversity hotspot for yakka skink
(Egernia rugosa) who utilise the habitat formed by mounds of scrubby cypress pine
(Callitris sp.), wattle (Acacia sp.), ironbark (Eucalyptus sp.), and road material that
has been pushed up by road works.
THREATS: The main threats to this site are clearing of vegetation, habitat
destruction by the removal of the mounds that yakka skinks inhabit, inappropriate fire
regime, and predation by feral cats, foxes and dogs.
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS: The site would greatly benefit from being included in the
Roma Regional Council pest and weed management programme, with emphasis on
feral control (fresh dog and fox tracks were noted in the vicinity during the field visit).
Although road-works can create mound habitats for yakka skink, it is important that
any future road-works at this site should take care not to destroy the existing mounds
that are habitat for yakka skinks.
For any future controlled fires at this site, it is recommended that they be of low
intensity, and that any mounds of timber/plant material are unburnt as they are used
as habitat by yakka skink.
115
Site 11. Jackson – Wandoan Road
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER:
PRIORITY SPECIES:
RATING:
SHIRE COUNCIL:
U 708
Plants:
Rutidosis lanata.
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL
This site on the Jackson – Wandoan Road is on gravel country with mixed tree
species along a narrow section of unused stock route. The site is well known to
botanical enthusiasts who want to view the daisy Rutidosis lanata (Plate 62). This
priority species appears to have disappeared form the Yuleba State Forest where it
has previously been collected and other locations where grazing has occurred (Ailsa
Holland, pers. comm.), therefore this site is of high importance for the species.
Plate 62. The daisy Rutidosis lanata (Photo: B. Walsh).
THREATS: The major threats to Rutidosis lanata at this site are habitat degradation
by weeds, competition and smothering by buffel grass (Pennisetum ciliare), habitat
degradation by low-levels of grazing, habitat destruction by road widening, and illegal
collectors.
RECOMMENDATIONS: This tenacious population of Rutidosis lanata has been
known to exist for at least ten years. It is situated on the road verge in a shallow
gravel drain, and would almost certainly have been subjected to some disturbance
during road grading or maintenance (Ailsa Holland, pers. comm.).
The existence of this population of Rutidosis lanata should be brought to the attention
of Roma Regional Council to protect it from any potential road widening. Additionally,
should the stock route become reactivated, permits should stipulate that stock would
need to be driven along the western side of the road to avoid grazing this species.
116
It is also recommended that consideration be given to the control of buffel grass
(Pennisetum ciliare) and other pasture species along the road verge, which appear to
be encroaching on the population of Rutidosis lanata.
117
Additional findings
An interesting historical find on some stock routes were the evidence of Cobb & Co
“corduroy” coach tracks (Plate 63). This type of track is constructed from cypress
pine that had been lain over boggy grown to allow access for Cobb & Co coaches,
which had been very active throughout the Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne NRM
region. A section of corduroy coach tracks near Surat has been dedicated as an
historic site (stock route number P005). However, the most impressive site is a 100
metre stretch of corduroy coach tracks on the Surat – Yuleba Road, which requires
control of erosion and drainage that is destroying the site.
Plate 63. Cobb & Co corduroy coach track (Photo: B. Walsh).
Aboriginal stone wells (Plate 64) can also be found near a site of corduroy coach
tracks (stock route number M705). These wells have been maintained in the past, but
since neglected, and it would not be a major task to restore the area.
118
Plate 64. Aboriginal well (Photo: B. Walsh).
Pegleg Reserve on the stock route north of Mitchell is located in what is broadly
known as woma (Aspidites ramsayi) habitat. This reserve warrants a closer survey to
determine the presence of this priority species and possibly others.
Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus) (Plate 65) is now well established
along the Maranoa River and its tributaries north of Mitchell. As it has vigorous
growth, it can quickly colonise grasslands and woodlands and out compete native
species, changing the structure of the habitat. Its ability to reproduce in 28 days,
proliferation of seed (15,000 per plant), and spread by flowing water, animals and
machinery, makes it one of the biggest threats to the current and future management
of the stock routes and their surround (Chamberlain and Gittens, 2004).
119
Plate 65. Parthenium weed, Maranoa River, Mitchell (Photo: B. Walsh).
120
Conclusions
The Stock Route Network (SRN) of western Queensland is a wonderful legacy that
provides a substantial public benefit by protecting biodiversity on public land,
protecting and enhancing public resources used by a range of private and public
members, and fostering the sustainable use of this network.
This network also has an important future with a potential increase in stock
movement, more usage from tourism and recreation, and growing interest from
community groups. Therefore in order to conserve the natural values as well as
maintain its other benefits for the community, and given the vast geographic scale of
the network and compounding threats, management needs to be focussed on
biodiversity hotspots.
This project has highlighted the lack of knowledge there is about many of the
biological values across the SRN of western Queensland, but it has also highlighted
47 biodiversity hotspots where management actions will achieve the greatest
conservation benefits.
The process to identify these biodiversity hotspots met several challenges. Given the
time constraints, the project was forced to rely on data that had been collected on the
more frequented routes, and also prevented the inspection of all the isolated routes
that hold the exciting promise of more priority species yet to be discovered. Seasonal
conditions limited access to sites, and also greatly impacted on the presence and
abundance of species, especially birds. It would no doubt be possible to revisit sites
in the wet season and record priority species missed during the dry season in this
project.
The project found that the majority of stock routes in western Queensland can be
described under the three ‘Us’: ‘Unused for droving stock, Unfenced, and
Unrecognisable’. The condition of unfenced stock routes is as good as the
management of the station they adjoin. It is fair to say that in most cases the stock
routes were in good condition, especially considering other factors such as the recent
drought.
In the number of biodiversity hotspots identified, there was a distinct bias towards the
South West NRM region. This in no way reflects the abundance of biodiversity, but
simply the fact that the project coordinator (Bryan Walsh) was based in that region for
the duration of the project and spent weekends in the field visiting local sites.
However, it does add credence to the suggestion of follow-up projects being
conducted at the regional level. This approach would be far more thorough and
comprehensive, as local information flows more readily at the intra-regional level.
For all of the 47 biodiversity hotspots identified, this report has recommended
management actions to conserve the biodiversity values at each site. Of course none
of this can occur without a unified effort with the relevant local governments and staff.
This would include combined efforts to seek funding, thus enabling the
implementation of the recommendations on ground.
As the adjacent landholders are the de-facto managers of the stock routes, it is
important that they are not excluded from the ongoing management of these
biodiversity hotspots. The success of a combined approach to the management of
these hotspots will require their awareness of the values and management needs,
and their continued involvement.
121
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank all the staff from the four NRM regions that have assisted with
mapping and GIS support, and in particular Martin Wingett from South West NRM
Ltd.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management staff have been most
helpful, especially those based at Charleville, Longreach, and Roma, and the
WildNet team.
To the Stock Route Officers, and the myriad of others who provided local knowledge
and pointed me in the right direction, thank you.
Other assistance was received from: the Queensland Museum, the Queensland
Herbarium, Bush Heritage, the Department of Transport and Main Roads, the
Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, and the Shire
Councils of Western Queensland.
References
Balcombe, S.R. and Arthington, A.H. 2009. Temporal changes in fish abundance in
response to hydrological variability in a dryland floodplain river. Marine and
Freshwater Research, 2009, 60, 146-159.
Chamberlain, J. and Gittens, A. 2004. Parthenium weed management. Department of
Natural Resources, Mines and Energy.
Dyer, R., Jacklyn, P., Partridge, I., Russell-Smith, J., and Williams, D. (eds). 2001.
Savanna burning: Understanding and using fire in northern Australia. Tropical
Savannas CRC.
Hogan, A. and Vallance, T. 2005. Rapid assessment of fish biodiversity in southern
Gulf of Carpentaria catchments. Project report number QI04074, Queensland
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Walkamin.
Sattler, P.S. and Williams, R.D. (eds). 1999. The Conservation Status of
Queensland’s Bioregional Ecosystems. Published by Environmental
Protection Agency, Brisbane.
Sullivan, H. (ed). 1984. Visitors to Aboriginal sites: access, control and management:
proceedings of the 1983 Kakadu Workshop. Australian National Parks and
Wildlife Service, Canberra.
122
Acronyms
BRMB
CFRC
CRC
DC
DCQ
DTMR
DEEDI
DERM
EPBC
NCA
NRM
QMDC
RE
SG
SGC
SRN
SW
SWNRM
Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne (NRM region)
Charleville Fishing and Restocking Club
Cooperative Research Centre
Desert Channels (NRM region)
Desert Channels Queensland Inc.
Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads
Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation
Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
Nature Conservation Act 1992
Natural Resource Management
Queensland Murray Darling Committee Inc.
Regional Ecosystem
Southern Gulf (NRM region)
Southern Gulf Catchments Inc.
Stock Route Network
South West (NRM region)
South West NRM Ltd.
123
Appendix 1: Priority species
The presence of priority species for conservation (identified through the ‘Back on Track
species prioritisation framework’ in the Southern Gulf (SG), Desert Channels (DC), South
West (SW), and Border Rivers Maranoa-Balonne (BRMB) NRM regions. (A “1” indicating the
species is present in the region). The legislative status of each species is shown under the
Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992, and the Commonwealth Environment Protection
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999: E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare, and LC
= Least Concern.
Appendix 1a: Priority plant species
Species name
Common name
Acacia maranoensis
Aponogeton queenslandicus
Boronia repanda
Cadellia pentastylis
Caladenia atroclavia
Callitris baileyi
Commersonia inglewoodensis
Cycas couttsiana
Cymbonotus maidenii
Cyperus clarus
Eleocharis blakeana
Eriocaulon carsonii
Eryngium fontanum
Eucalyptus argophloia
Eucalyptus pachycalyx subsp.
waajensis
Glycyrrhiza acanthocarpa
Grevillea scortechinii subsp.
scortechinii
Gunniopsis sp. (Edgbaston
R.J.Fensham 5094)
Hemigenia sp. (Homestead
E.J.Thompson+ CHA203)
Homoranthus sp. (Wyaga
D.Jermyn+ HM25)
Hydrocotyle dipleura
Leucopogon sp. (Coolmunda
D.Halford Q1635)
Macrozamia conferta
Macrozamia cranei
Macrozamia machinii
Macrozamia occidua
Macrozamia viridis
Melaleuca groveana
Myriophyllum artesium
Pandanus aquaticus
Pararistolochia praevenosa
Peplidium sp. (Edgbaston
R.J.Fensham 3341)
Philotheca sporadica
Prostanthera sp. (Mount
Stewart)
Ptilotus brachyanthus
Rhaponticum australe
Rumex dumosus
Rutidosis lanata
Senecio daltonii
Solanum argopetalum
Solanum coracinum
Solanum innoxium
Solanum papaverifolium
Solanum stenopterum
womal
NCA EPBC
LC
R
E
V
E
R
ooline
Bailey's cypress
1
1
1
E
V
E
R
V
R
E
E
V
E
Presence in NRM region
SG
DC
SW
BRMB
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
E
E
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
E
E
1
V
E
V
V
E
R
E
V
E
V
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
R
LC
V
1
1
1
1
V
1
1
R
V
LC
E
LC
E
V
124
1
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Appendix 1b: Priority animal species
Species name
Common name
NCA EPBC
Presence in NRM region
SG
DC
SW
BRMB
Spiders
Selenocosmia crassipes
LC
1
Butterflies
Hypochrysops piceata
Jalmenus evagoras
bulloak jewel
imperial hairstreak (northern
subspecies)
E
V
1
1
Chlamydogobius micropterus
Chlamydogobius squamigenus
Elizabeth Springs Goby
Edgbaston goby
E
E
E
V
1
1
Craterocephalus sp.
Maccullochella peeli peeli
Scaturiginichthys vermeilipinnis
Edgbaston hardyhead
Murray cod
red-finned blue-eye
1
1
1
1
1
E
E
E
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Freshwater fish
Reptiles
Acanthophis antarcticus
Aspidites ramsayi
Egernia rugosa
Wollumbinia belli
Elseya lavarackorum
Emydura macquarii emmotti
Hoplocephalus bitorquatus
Hoplocephalus stephensii
Nephrurus sphyrurus
Paradelma orientalis
Strophurus taenicauda
common death adder
woma
yakka skink
Bell's turtle
Gulf snapping turtle
Emmott's short-neck turtle
pale-headed snake
Stephens' banded snake
border thick-tailed gecko
brigalow scaly-foot
golden-tailed gecko
R
R
V
LC
V
LC
LC
R
R
V
R
Kalkadoon grasswren
grey grasswren (Bulloo)
grey grasswren (Lake Eyre basin)
LC
R
1
V
V
E
1
V
V
1
1
Birds
Amytornis ballarae
Amytornis barbatus barbatus
Amytornis barbatus diamantina
Amytornis dorotheae
Carpentarian grasswren
Amytornis striatus rowleyi (S&M) striated grasswren
R
Artamus cinereus normani
1
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
black-faced woodswallow (Cape
York Peninsula)
Botaurus poiciloptilus
Australasian bittern
Lophochroa leadbeateri
Major Mitchell's cockatoo
Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami glossy black-cockatoo (eastern)
LC
1
LC
V
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Elanus scriptus
Erythrotriorchis radiatus
Grantiella picta
Lathamus discolor
Malurus coronatus
Melanodryas cucullata cucullata
letter-winged kite
red goshawk
painted honeyeater
swift parrot
purple-crowned fairy-wren
hooded robin (south-eastern)
LC
E
R
E
V
LC
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Neochmia ruficauda clarescens
Rostratula australis
Stagonopleura guttata
Anthochaera phrygia
star finch (northern subspecies)
Australian painted snipe
diamond firetail
regent honeyeater
LC
V
LC
E
mulgara
ampurta
kowari
northern quoll
ghost bat
greater bilby
eastern long-eared bat
yellow-bellied glider (southern
subspecies)
brush-tailed rock-wallaby
yellow-footed rock-wallaby
Hastings River mouse
grey-headed flying-fox
Julia Creek dunnart
V
LC
V
LC
V
E
V
LC
V
E
V
E
V
LC
V
LC
E
V
V
E
1
1
V
1
1
1
1
1
E
1
1
1
1
1
1
Mammals
Dasycercus cristicauda
Dasycercus hillieri
Dasyuroides byrnei
Dasyurus hallucatus
Macroderma gigas
Macrotis lagotis
Nyctophilus timoriensis
Petaurus australis australis
Petrogale penicillata
Petrogale xanthopus celeris
Pseudomys oralis
Pteropus poliocephalus
Sminthopsis douglasi
125
1
V
V
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
E
V
E
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Appendix 2: Data sheet for site visits
Site number:
Coordinates:
Site name:
Road/stock route:
Local Government authority:
NRM region:
Flora:
Fauna:
Other:
Biodiversity Hotspot Criteria
Priority species:
Presence/abundance:
Threats/constraints:
Current management:
Social constraints:
Active/inactive stock route:
Connectivity/linkage:
Regional ecosystems:
Local knowledge input:
Photographs:
Comments:
Recommendation:
Date:
Officer:
126