This project focused on removal of weeds and planting native tune stock. From our services we reduced weed density from over 80% to less than 20% and less than 5% in some areas.

Assessment of site

Our team conducted a site assessment which identified:

• The presence and abundance of weeds 
• The priority for control
• Native plant abundance

On completion of the site assessment we made recommendations in order to control the extensive weed infestation on-site in a short time frame. The most predominant weed species on site were Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus) and Lantana (Lantana camara).
The focus of these works was to treat weeds present and to restore the three remnant vegetation communities on site which included:

• Beach Spinifex Grassland
• Coastal Fore Dune Wattle Scrub
• Coastal Tea-tree Banksia Scrub

Our team developed two main stages to complete the ecological restoration of the North Palm Beach Dunes.

Primary stage

The primary stage involved extensive weeding that primarily targeted the most abundant weed species on site. In order to treat the Asparagus fern and Lantana widespread we carried out careful manual removal around all native vegetation coupled with herbicide spraying. After several weeks the site had shown a significant level of die-back of the treated weeds. The non-propagative remains of the treated weeds were mulched using a slasher then spread on the bare soil in preparation for planting.

Secondary stage

The secondary stage of the project involved the planting of native tube stock into the mulched areas. The planting was undertaken in stages with consistent irrigation. Furthermore, regular maintenance was carried out on site throughout this time and primarily consisted of manual weed removal as well as herbicide application in select areas.

Results 

The treatment and control of Asparagus aethiopicus and Lantana camara was successful throughout the site with many portions of the site now having little to no weed presence. Weed density was reduced from over 80% to less than 20% and less than 5% in some areas. The three coastal communities will need continued maintenance to control herbaceous weeds and exotic grasses now that mature weeds have been removed. It is vital that these works are undertaken for an extended period of time for the overall success of the dunes.

Our work at Viva Energy’s Clyde terminal aims to restore and rehabilitate habitats for the Green and Golden Bell Frogs.

Project Details 

Our aim is to develop and maintain a secure core habitat that is reasonably self-sustaining and meets the known ecological requirements of the entire life cycle of the Green and Golden Bell Frog (GGBF).

To meet this goal, our team planted 70,000 plants in three breeding ponds on site with associated frog corridor grasslands. We also conducted the maintenance works to ensure the habitat remained optimal for the GGBF.

The Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea) has gone from being one of the most commonly found frogs on the east coast, to one of the most threatened, with the risk of extinction. A large contributing factor for this decline in population is habitat isolation. 

Their Habitat Preference 

The species live in large, open-water swamps or ponds that have a variable water level, dense vegetation with grassy and rocky areas around them. The species preferred habitats that they use for breeding, foraging, shelter and hibernation include waterbodies that:

• Are unshaded and free of predatory fish
• Have grassy areas and shelters nearby.

Site Map

Services Provided

Our team have been carefully clearing and disposing of vegetation to avoid harming any GGBF that may be present. Our team also focused on rebuilding the habitats that include the removal of She-Oak Trees that are shading Green and Golden Bell Frog Habitat. Additionally, we controlled large areas of Spiny Rush and conducted the planting of appropriate macrophyte species to enhance the natural habitat qualities for GGBF.

More details on the services we provided on this site include: 

• Weed control works that started from the banks of waterbodies, working outward towards dry land, replacing the weeds removed with native plants.
• Control of Gambusia (Mosquito Fish).
• Removal of all Swamp Oak individuals that occur within or fringing ponds and pools, including along the raised bund that intersects the central pools.
• All Juncus acutus are to be progressively removed from the Wetlands. The native Typha orientalis is to be culled from the centre of pools and ponds, with some T. orientalis retained around the banks of all waterbodies.
• Targeted small populations of unwanted emergent and aquatic vegetation for removal which was then followed by removal of the larger infestations.
• Extensive primary treatment on weeds such as Lantana Camara, Casurina Sp and Acacia Salinga have been cleared around the ponds. Opening up the area to allow 40% of the perennial wetland area with direct sunlight. This warms up the temperature of the water, creating more productivity for the aquatic vegetation.

Rebuilding and bringing back the natural habitats for the Green and Golden Bell Frogs is always a profound project to work on. Our efforts into restoring the land and natural habitats will result in unhindered breeding and promote increased activity.