Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan: 2018 2028 - Final Town of Mosman Park
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Town of Mosman Park Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan: 2018 – 2028 Final Natural Area Holdings Pty Ltd 99C Lord Street, Whiteman, WA, 6076 Ph: (08) 9209 2767 info@naturalarea.com.au www.naturalarea.com.au
Town of Mosman Park
Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan 2018 – 2028
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prepared this report for the sole use of the Client and for the purposes as stated in the agreement between
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2017 07 03 NAC TOMP REPT Chidley Point Management Plan Final.docx
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Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan\Report\
Draft/Version Approved
Date Changes Prepared by Status
No. by
Draft for
D1 05 January 2018 New document SH/SB LS review and
comment
Draft for
D2 26 March 2018 Updated version SB LS review and
comment
Draft for
D3 16 May 2018 Updated version SB LS review and
comment
Minor Draft for
D4 04 July 2018 SB LS
adjustments consultation
Minor
V1 02 October 2018 SB LS Final
adjustments
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Town of Mosman Park
Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan 2018 – 2028
Acronyms
Acronym Definition
AHD Australian Height Datum
o
C Degrees Celsius
Cwlth Commonwealth
DBCA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
DWER Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
EnvGeol Environmental geology
EPA Environmental Protection Authority
EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth)
IBRA Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation of Australia
km/h Kilometres per hour
m Metre
mm Millimetres
Pc Phytophthora cinnamomi (dieback)
ToMP Town of Mosman Park
WA Western Australia
WAOL WA Organism List
WoNS Weeds of National Significance
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Town of Mosman Park
Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan 2018 – 2028
Contents
Acronyms ................................................................................................................................................ 3
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 7
1.1 Location ................................................................................................................................................ 7
1.2 Zoning and Tenure................................................................................................................................ 7
1.3 Management Plan Aim ......................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 Management Plan Objectives............................................................................................................... 9
1.5 Legislation, Policies and Guidelines ...................................................................................................... 9
1.6 Previous Investigations .......................................................................................................................11
1.7 Consultation .......................................................................................................................................12
2.0 Site Characteristics...................................................................................................................... 13
2.1 Regional Context ................................................................................................................................13
2.2 Climate................................................................................................................................................13
2.3 Geology ...............................................................................................................................................13
2.4 Topography and Soils .........................................................................................................................13
2.5 Hydrology ...........................................................................................................................................13
2.6 Vegetation Association .......................................................................................................................14
2.7 Ecological Linkages .............................................................................................................................14
3.0 Conservation Values ................................................................................................................... 16
4.0 Biodiversity Conservation ........................................................................................................... 17
4.1 Flora and Vegetation ..........................................................................................................................17
4.1.1 Native Flora ................................................................................................................................17
4.1.2 Significant Flora ..........................................................................................................................18
4.1.3 Locally Significant Flora ..............................................................................................................18
4.1.4 Threatened Ecological Communities ..........................................................................................18
4.1.5 Vegetation Communities ............................................................................................................18
4.1.6 Vegetation Condition..................................................................................................................22
4.1.7 Environmental Weeds ................................................................................................................22
4.1.8 Revegetation...............................................................................................................................38
4.1.9 Flora and Vegetation Management Recommendations ............................................................40
4.2 Plant Pathogens ..................................................................................................................................42
4.2.1 Phytophthora Dieback ................................................................................................................42
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4.2.2 Armillaria ....................................................................................................................................42
4.2.3 Other Plant Pathogens ...............................................................................................................43
4.2.4 Plant Pathogen Management Recommendations .....................................................................44
4.3 Fauna ..................................................................................................................................................44
4.3.1 Fauna Survey Activities ...............................................................................................................44
4.3.2 Conservation Significant Fauna Species .....................................................................................45
4.3.3 Non-native Fauna .......................................................................................................................46
4.3.4 Fauna Management....................................................................................................................46
4.4 Erosion ................................................................................................................................................47
4.4.1 Erosion Management .................................................................................................................48
4.5 Social Environment .............................................................................................................................49
4.5.1 Aboriginal Heritage .....................................................................................................................49
4.5.2 Non-Aboriginal Heritage .............................................................................................................49
4.5.3 Recreation ..................................................................................................................................49
4.5.4 Management of the Social Environment....................................................................................51
4.6 Assets and Infrastructure ...................................................................................................................52
4.6.1 Informal Access Tracks ...............................................................................................................52
4.6.2 Additional Infrastructure ............................................................................................................52
4.6.3 Signage........................................................................................................................................53
4.6.4 Climate Change ...........................................................................................................................53
4.6.5 Management of the Assets and Infrastructure ..........................................................................55
4.7 Fire Management ...............................................................................................................................55
4.7.1 Fire Fuel Load..............................................................................................................................55
4.7.2 Bushfire Management ................................................................................................................56
4.8 Limestone Cliffs ..................................................................................................................................57
4.9 Community and Education .................................................................................................................57
4.9.1 Friends of Mosman Park Bushland .............................................................................................58
4.9.2 Education ....................................................................................................................................58
4.9.3 Community .................................................................................................................................58
4.9.4 Management of Community and Educational Activities ............................................................58
4.10 Implementation Constraints...............................................................................................................59
5.0 Implementation Plan .................................................................................................................. 60
5.1 Indicative Implementation Timetable and Costs................................................................................64
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6.0 References.................................................................................................................................. 72
Appendix 1: Flora Species List .............................................................................................................. 75
Appendix 2: Quadrat Data ................................................................................................................... 79
Appendix 3: Conservation Codes ......................................................................................................... 89
Appendix 4: Vegetation Structural Classes ........................................................................................... 91
Appendix 5: Vegetation Condition Rating Scale .................................................................................... 92
Appendix 6: Indicative Revegetation Species List ................................................................................. 93
Indicative Plant Species and Numbers per Revegetation Area......................................................................94
Appendix 7: Fauna Species List ............................................................................................................ 96
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Town of Mosman Park
Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan 2018 – 2028
1.0 Introduction
Chidley Point Reserve is an area of remnant bushland along the Swan River Foreshore within the Town of
Mosman Park (ToMP). The Reserve is an important natural space that provides:
▪ habitat for flora and fauna species
▪ an ecological linkage with other reserves in the area
▪ active and passive recreational activities
▪ educational opportunities.
The Town of Mosman Park commissioned Natural Area Consulting Management Services (Natural Area) to
update the 2011 Management Plan prepared by ENV Australia, taking into consideration current site
characteristics, conditions, and management threats. Activities associated with preparation of the
management plan included:
▪ site assessment activities to identify current issues that threaten the site’s environmental values and
investigate potential management solutions
▪ undertaking a level 2 flora and vegetation assessment to identify current flora species present within
the reserve, vegetation type and condition.
1.1 Location
Chidley Point Reserve is a 5.34 ha foreshore reserve located approximately 10 km south-west of the Perth
Central Business District, in the suburb of Mosman Park. It is bound by the Swan River to the north-east and
south-east, by Caporn Street and residential housing to the south-west, and Bateman Street and residential
housing to the north-west (Figure 1).
1.2 Zoning and Tenure
Chidley Point Reserve (Reserve 3345) is zoned as Parks and Recreation under the Metropolitan Region
Scheme and the Mosman Park Town Planning Scheme No. 3, with management orders vested with the Town
of Mosman Park. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) have a shared
management responsibility for the shoreline with the Town of Mosman Park.
The DBCA are responsible for the management of the Swan River Foreshore from the high-water mark and
the Swan River adjacent to Chidley Point Reserve; accordingly, the ToMP has a responsibility to liaise with
the DBCA on joint management matters.
1.3 Management Plan Aim
The aim of this management plan is to review and update the Chidley Point Reserve Management Plan
prepared by ENV Australia in 2011 to reflect current site conditions. The management plan will provide the
basis for the ongoing management of Chidley Point Reserve by the Town of Mosman Park for a 10-year
period.
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1.4 Management Plan Objectives
The objectives of this Management Plan are to:
▪ outline the current values of the Reserve including environmental and heritage, along with threats
and future management strategies
▪ provide recommendations and actions which facilitate long term protection and enhancement of the
Reserve
▪ provide recommended actions for environmental remediation works
▪ assist the Town in planning for long-term resources and financial costs associated with the ongoing
management of the reserve.
1.5 Legislation, Policies and Guidelines
The management of Chidley Point Reserve is influenced by legislation, policies and guidelines at local, state
and federal government levels, with key documents summarised in Table 1.
Table 1: Legislation, policies and guidelines relevant to Chidley Point Reserve
Document Description
Local Government
Dogs Amendment Local Law Make provisions for the designation of dog exercise areas, locations
(2018) where they are prohibited, along with controlling the number than can
be kept and impounding of dogs. Chidley Point Reserve is an area
designated as where dogs must be kept on leads.
Town of Mosman Park Outlines current and emerging environmental and sustainability issues
Environmental Framework and trends faced by the Town, along with indicating priorities for
(Ecologia, 2009) management and future directions; includes those issues relevant to
Chidley Point Reserve
State Government
Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 Provides for the preservation on behalf of the community of places and
objects customarily used by, or traditional to, the original inhabitants
of Australia or their descendants. The Swan River Foreshore is a
designated Aboriginal Heritage Site
Biosecurity and Agriculture Provides for the control of declared flora and fauna species (declared
Management Act 2007 organisms) that are known to be a significant environmental threat and
makes provision for the management, control and prevention of these
declared plants and animals.
Biodiversity Conservation Act Replaces the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and provides for the
2016 conservation and legal protection of flora and fauna, particularly those
that are listed as rare or priority species.
Bushfires Act 1954 Provides for diminishing the dangers resulting from bush fires and for
the prevention, control and extinguishment of bush fires.
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Document Description
Cat Act 2011 Provision for the control and management of cats and promotes and
encourages the responsible ownership of cats. Cats may be seized
where they are found wandering in public areas, such as Chidley Point
Reserve.
Dog Act 1976 Provides for the control of dogs in public and private spaces and
promotes the responsible ownership of dogs. The Act requires dog
owners to register their dogs and encompasses the ownership and
keeping of dogs and the obligations and rights of dog owners. Local
governments are responsible for administering, monitor compliance
and enforcing the Act within their respective districts.
Environmental Protection Act Provides authority to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for
1986 the prevention, control and abatement of pollution and environmental
harm, for the conservation, preservation, protection, enhancement and
management of the environment in Western Australia.
Government of Western The Strategy identifies regionally significant bushland in the Perth
Australia ‘Bush Forever’ Metropolitan Region to be retained, managed and protected forever.
Strategy 2000 Chidley Point Reserve is listed as Bush Forever Site 334.
Heritage of Western Australia Provides for and encourages the conservation of places that have
Act 1990 significance to the cultural heritage in the State. Chidley Point Reserve
is listed on the Town of Mosman Park Municipal Heritage Register as
Place number 11687.
State Planning Policy 2.8 – This policy aims to provide direction and an implementation framework
Bushland Policy for the Perth that will ensure bushland protection and management issues in the
Metropolitan Region Perth Metropolitan Region are appropriately addressed and integrated
with broader land use planning and decision-making.
State Planning Policy 3.7 – This policy aims to implement effective risk-based land use planning
Planning in Bushfire Prone and development to protect life and reduce the impact of bushfire on
Areas property and infrastructure, by identifying bushfire prone areas to be
addressed with respect to bushfire risk management within strategic
planning documents, strategic planning proposals, and subdivision and
development applications.
Swan and Canning Rivers Point Chidley is located in the Swan Canning Development Control
Management Act 2006 Area, with any development needing to be directed by these Acts and
Swan and Canning Rivers policies.
Regulations 2007
State Planning Policy 2.10 –
Swan Canning River System
DBCA Corporate Policy 42:
Planning for Land Use,
Development and Permitting
Affecting the Swan Canning
Development Control Area
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Document Description
Weed Prioritisation Process The Department of Parks and Wildlife, now the Department of
2013 Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, prepared the weed
prioritisation process to assist with the on-ground management of
weeds in a particular location, considering their ecological impact, rate
of dispersal and population trend.
Federal Government
Environment Protection and Provides for the protection of the environment and the conservation of
Biodiversity Conservation Act biodiversity, and for related purposes.
1999
Australia’s Biodiversity The Strategy aims to protect biological diversity and maintain
Conservation Strategy 2010- ecological processes and systems.
2030
National Weeds Strategy 1997 Provides a strategic framework for managing weeds at a national level.
As part of the implementation of the National Weeds Strategy, 32
Weeds of National Significance are identified as nationally agreed
priority plant species for control and management based on the criteria
of invasiveness and impact characteristics, potential and current area
of spread and economic, environmental and social impacts.
Threatened Species Strategy Outlines the Federal Government’s approach to threatened flora and
2015 fauna species recovery through reversing population declines.
1.6 Previous Investigations
A number of investigations have been carried out at a Chidley Point Reserve and are summarised in Table 2.
Table 2: Summary of previous Chidley Point Reserve investigations
Consultant/Author Name Key Outcomes
Seashore Foreshore Management Plan for Assist local governments, including the Town
Engineering Pty Ltd the Swan River Estuary in the of Mosman Park, to protect and enhance
(2016) Western Suburbs of Perth river banks, along with contributing to
planning foreshore structure maintenance,
renewal and capital works over varying time-
scales.
LGIS (2012) Swan River Foreshore – Mosman Risk assessment and associated treatment
Park Site Risk Review recommendations for the Swan River
Foreshore area
Western Wildlife Level 2 Vertebrate Fauna Survey, Recorded two amphibians, 18 reptiles, 39
(2011) November 2011 birds and five mammals.
ENV Australia Pty Ltd Chidley Point Reserve Identification of management strategies to
(2011) Environmental Management Plan maintain, enhance and reduce disturbance
of declared rare and priority listed flora,
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Consultant/Author Name Key Outcomes
fauna and ecological communities from 2011
to 2017.
Moore Mapping Pty Moore Mapping Less Disease Decline of plants susceptible to
Ltd (2010) Spread, Report and Phytophthora cinnamomi were evident,
Recommendations for the Mapping however, samples were negative for the
and Disease Caused by presence of Pc and Armillaria.
Phytophthora cinnamomi (Pc)
Regeneration Bay to Bay Weed Control and Flora survey used to guide the direct
Technology (2006) Rehabilitation Plan immediate and longer-term management of
weeds and revegetation; 95 species
identified, of which 45 were native and 50
non-native (weeds).
1.7 Consultation
During preparation of this Plan, consultation occurred with representatives from the Friends of Mosman
Park Bushland and the Town of Mosman Park. Additional consultation with other parties will occur as the
Plan is finalised.
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2.0 Site Characteristics
2.1 Regional Context
According to Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) descriptions, Perth is located within
the Swan Coastal Plain region. The Swan Coastal Plain comprises two major divisions, namely Swan Coastal
Plain 1 – Dandaragan Plateau and Swan Coastal Plain 2 – Perth Coastal Plain. Chidley Point Reserve is located
within the Perth subregion, which is broadly characterised as including areas of Jarrah and Banksia
woodlands on sandy soils in a series of sand dunes, along with wetland areas, often within the interdunal
swales (Mitchell, Williams and Desmond, 2002).
2.2 Climate
The climate experienced in the area is Mediterranean, with dry, hot summers and cool, wet winters.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (Perth Airport, Station ID 009021, 2017):
▪ average rainfall is 766.1 mm pa, with the majority falling between May and August
▪ average maximum temperature ranges from 17.9 oC in winter to 32.0 oC in summer, with the
highest recorded maximum being 46.7 oC
▪ average minimum temperatures range from 8.0 oC in winter to 17.5 oC in summer, with the lowest
recorded minimum being -1.3 oC
▪ predominant wind directions include morning easterlies and westerly and south-westerly sea
breezes during summer months, with an average wind speed of 18.7 km/h and gusts of more than
100 km/h.
2.3 Geology
Chidley Point Reserve is located within the Swan Coastal Plain on the Spearwood Dune System. This system
is characterised by the presence of Tamala Limestone that comprises medium to coarse grained calcarenite,
broken fossil shell fragments, and quartz sand (Gozzard, 2007).
2.4 Topography and Soils
The Reserve is situated on Spearwood soils with one soil type occurring, namely the EnvGeol LS1 Phase. This
soil type is described as light yellow-brown fine to coarse grained soil over limestone (Department of
Primary industries and Regional Development, 2017). Chidley Point Reserve rises from 0 m Australian height
datum (AHD) along the Swan River Foreshore in the north-east and south-east to 40 m AHD in the north-
west. The topography and the presence of Chidley Way means the Reserve is bisected and that steep slopes
are present in the vicinity of the carpark down towards the river.
2.5 Hydrology
According to the Interactive Groundwater Map (Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
(DWER), 2017), depth to groundwater at Chidley Point Reserve is 1 m below the natural surface level, with
the direction of flow being towards the east and the Swan River.
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2.6 Vegetation Association
Vegetation complexes are classified by the soil and landforms contained in medium to large areas within the
Swan Coastal Plain. The Chidley Point foreshore is predominantly sandy beaches with limestone cliffs with
minimal vegetation. The vegetation association recorded at Chidley Point Reserve is the Cottesloe Complex –
Central and South, which is characterised by a mosaic of Eucalyptus gomphocephala woodlands, open
forests of Eucalyptus gomphocephala/Eucalyptus marginata/Corymbia calophylla and closed heaths on
limestone outcrops (Heddle, Loneragan and Havel, 1980).
2.7 Ecological Linkages
Chidley Point Reserve is recognised as being an ecological linkage to other Bush Forever sites within the
Town of Mosman Park, including Bay View Terrace Park to the north, along the Swan River foreshore and
Point Roe Park to the south-west (WALGA Environmental Planning Tool, 2018). The foreshore area is
included as a conceptual ecological linkage (Figure 2).
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3.0 Conservation Values
Chidley Point Reserve is recognised as Bush Forever Site 334 (Government of Western Australia, 2000), with
attributes including the presence of exposed limestone cliffs and it being one of a limited number of
naturally vegetated bushland areas on the Swan River Estuary. The site is also known for the presence of:
▪ flora species with a restricted distribution, namely Acacia truncata and Acacia xanthina
▪ the Priority 4 listed Dodonaea hackettiana (Hackett’s Hopbush)
▪ the presence of the Priority 3 listed ecological community Northern Spearwood Shrublands and
Woodlands (SCP24) (Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), 2018)
▪ records of bird species protected under international agreements (DBCA, 2018), namely:
- Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia)
- Common Sandpiper (Tringa hypoleucos)
- Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus)
- Sanderling (Calidris alba)
▪ the Swan Canning Riverpark present along two boundaries of the Reserve.
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4.0 Biodiversity Conservation
4.1 Flora and Vegetation
Natural Area undertook a Level 2 Flora and Vegetation Survey on the 12 and 13 October 2017 which
included the assessment of nine quadrats at Chidley Point Reserve to support the preparation of this
management plan.
4.1.1 Native Flora
The 2017 survey identified the presence of 156 flora species from 48 families. Of these, 85 were native
species and 71 non-natives (weeds); examples of native species are provided in Figure 3. The species list is
provided in Appendix 1, the quadrat information in Appendix 2, and conservation codes in Appendix 3.
Acacia xanthina Thysanotus arenarius Podotheca gnaphalioides
(White-stemmed Wattle) (Golden Long-heads)
Lechenaultia linarioides Caladenia latifolia Thysanotus patersonii
(Yellow Leschenaultia) (Pink Fairies)
Figure 3: Example native flora species recorded during the 2017 survey
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4.1.2 Significant Flora
The flora survey noted the presence of the Priority 4 listed Dodonaea hackettiana (Hackett’s Hopbush)
(Figure 4). No other conservation significant flora species listed under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950
(WA) or Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth) were observed.
Figure 4: Dodonaea hackettiana
4.1.3 Locally Significant Flora
The Bush Forever listing information (Government of Western Australia, 2000) indicated that Acacia
truncata and Acacia xanthina were locally significant species present at the site. Lechenaultia linarioides is
also listed as a locally significant species. Of these, the Acacia xanthina and Lechenaultia linarioides were
recorded in the 2017 flora survey (Figure 3).
4.1.4 Threatened Ecological Communities
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (2017) indicate the presence of the Priority 3
listed ecological community Northern Spearwood Shrublands and Woodlands (community type 24) within
the site. Statistical analysis of the quadrat data was compared with the Gibson et al 1994 data, with all
quadrats except one showing a similarity in species composition ranging from 30 to 62%, confirming its
presence on site.
The data was also compared to the Department of the Environment and Energy listing information for
Banksia Woodlands of the Swan Coastal Plain that is listed as endangered under the Environment Protection
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth). The results indicated that the quadrats had a dissimilar
species composition and the dominant Banksia species present for this community type were absent, thus
this threatened ecological community is not present.
4.1.5 Vegetation Communities
Site assessment activities carried out by Natural Area included vegetation community type based on the
presence of dominant upper, middle and over storey species, as described in Bush Forever Volume 2
(Government of Western Australia, 2000; Appendix 4). Three vegetation types were recorded (Table 3,
Figure 5), with the Banksia sessilis Tall Shrubland being dominant; while areas that are landscaped are not
assigned a vegetation type, they are shown on Figure 6 for completeness.
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Table 3: Vegetation type
Name Description Photograph
Banksia sessilis Tall Tall Shrubland of Banksia
Shrubland sessilis over Acacia
pulchella and mixed
shrubs and a weedy
understorey dominated by
*Ehrharta calycina with
patches of Mesomelaena
pseudostygia.
Acacia xanthina and Acacia xanthina and
Banksia sessilis Banksia sessilis Shrubland
Shrubland over mixed low shrubs and
a weedy understorey of
grasses and herbs.
Mixed Woodland Mixed Woodland of
Eucalyptus species,
Banksia attenuata and
Agonis flexuosa over
Banksia sessilis and mixed
shrubland, with a weedy
understorey dominated by
*Ehrharta calycina
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4.1.6 Vegetation Condition
Vegetation condition was assessed using the rating scale attributed to Keighery in Bush Forever Volume 2
(Government of Western Australia, 2000) (Appendix 5). Condition ranged from Completely Degraded to Very
Good, with the majority of the site being considered in good or very good condition (Table 4, Figure 6).
Vegetation condition assessments include observations of the numbers of native species, weed cover,
species diversity, amount of understorey, health condition of populations and the presence of physical
disturbances. The 2017 assessment represents an improvement in condition on the 2011 assessment carried
out by ENV Australia with the inclusion of areas now considered to be in Very Good condition in the south-
east of the site. Note that landscaped areas are not assigned a condition rating but are shown on Figure 6 for
completeness; in the 2011 assessment, these areas were shown as degraded. The north-eastern portion of
the site is a stand of introduced Japanese Pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), and has been assigned a
completely degraded rating in contrast to the Good rating assigned in 2011. Most other areas are consistent
with the 2011 findings.
Table 4: Vegetation condition
Very Good Good Degraded Completely Degraded Total
Area (ha) 0.11 2.63 0.88 1.28 4.9
Percent (%) 2.2 53.8 17.9 26.1 100
4.1.7 Environmental Weeds
An environmental weed is a plant species that becomes established in an ecosystem, modifying the natural
processes that usually exist to the detriment of the native flora and fauna (Department of Environment and
Conservation, 1999). All forms of plant life including grasses, herbs, bulbs (geophytes), climbers, trees and
shrubs can become weeds if conditions allow, including non-local native plant species and those that have
been introduced from outside of Australia. The impacts of weeds can include:
▪ preventing the growth of native plants, including understorey species
▪ providing competition for food, water, nutrients and sunlight
▪ producing prolific amounts of seed that germinate readily, in comparison to many Australian native
species that need a range of conditions to be met before they germinate
▪ decreasing the amount of suitable habitat for fauna species
▪ increasing fire fuel loads in a given location.
Weeds are a major threat to the biodiversity of Chidley Point Reserve and have the potential to diminish the
aesthetic values of the site. Of the 156-plant species recorded during the 2017 flora survey, 71 (45%) were
non-native or weed species. The weeds included two Weeds of National Significance (WoNS), namely Bridal
Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) and the Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla), and two declared pests under the
Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (WA) (Bridal Creeper and Lantana (Lantana Camara)).
The locations of Bridal Creeper, Lantana, woody and other weeds are provided in Figures 7 and 8.
Department of Parks and Wildlife Weed Prioritisation Strategy
The Department of Parks and Wildlife, now the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions,
developed its weed prioritisation strategy as a tool to guide management within its reserves and other land
it manages (2015). While it has no legal status, it is a useful guide to assist other land managers with
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determining weed control priorities. In addition to the WoNS and declared plants present within the
Reserve, twelve species recorded within Chidley Point Reserve are listed as having a medium or high control
priority due to their invasiveness and potential for spread.
Significant Weeds
Site assessment activities carried out by Natural Area included consideration of significant weeds present. In
the context of Chidley Point Reserve, a significant weed is one that is listed as:
▪ a weed of national significance (WoNS)
▪ a declared pest on the WA Organism List (WAOL) under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management
Act 2007 (WA)
▪ having a moderate or higher control priority in the Department of Parks and Wildlife (now
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions) Weed Prioritisation Process
▪ defined by the Town of Mosman Park.
A summary of the significant weeds for Chidley Point Reserve are provided in Table 5.
Suggested priorities for woody weed removal are:
▪ the Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora) seedlings while they are small
▪ the two Athel Pines (Tamarix aphylla), taking care with the one located on the slope below the main
car park as this is currently contributing to slope stability; the trunk may need to remain in place
during early tubestock planting phases
▪ the Kurrajong trees (Brachychiton populneus)
▪ the Geraldton Wax (Chamelaucium uncinatum).
The removal of other woody weeds can be carried out over the lifetime of this plan, with other weed control
activities occurring as per ToMP contracts and in association with revegetation works and maintenance
activities.
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Table 5: Significant Weeds
Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Centranthus macrosiphon Pretty Betsy H Y
Gladiolus undulatus Wavy Gladiolus H Y
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Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Lachenalia reflexa Soldiers H Y
Lupinus cosentinii Sandplain Lupin H Y
Olea europaea Olive H Y
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Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian Pepper H Y
Watsonia meriana var. bulbillifera Bulbil Watsonia H Y
Tamarix aphylla Athel Pine Y H Y
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Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Brachychiton populneus Kurrajong M Y
Corymbia citriodora Lemon-scented Gum M Y
Euphorbia terracina Geraldton Carnation Weed M Y
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Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Ferraria crispa Black Flag M Y
Gladiolus caryophyllaceus Pink Gladiolus M Y
Tribulus terrestris Caltrop* M Y
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Weed
Prioritisation ToMP Priority
Species Common Name WoNS WAOL Picture1,2
Process Weed
Rating
Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper Y Y L Y
Lantana camara Lantana Y L Y
* Note that Caltrop was not recorded during the 2017 survey activities, but is included here due its priority rating by the ToMP
Image sources: 1- Natural Area, 2 – Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, 2018
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Weed Management
Weed management considerations include:
▪ target weed type(s)
▪ treatment priority
▪ area of infestation and population density
▪ control method(s)
▪ cumulative effects of residual herbicides such as metsulfuron and triasulfuron, with some species
becoming resistant to their effects on limestone soils
▪ access
▪ presence of native flora and fauna species
▪ management of community members near active weed control works.
Management Strategies
Weed management strategies revolve around the removal of weeds from a designated area by manual,
chemical, or biological treatment methods, with manual and chemical treatments being the most common.
The control technique for a particular target species will depend on the characteristics of the plant including
its rate of growth, regenerative capacity, and the presence of non-target species or other sensitive areas,
such as threatened and/or priority flora and/or fauna.
Manual Weed Control
Manual control typically involves the removal of the nominated weed either mechanically (machine) or by
hand. Removal of woody weeds (trees, shrubs with woody stems), will often involve the following:
▪ manual (‘hand’) removal of plant – physically removing the plant by hand or using hand-operated
tools to assist with removal
▪ cut and paint – removal of woody weeds by trimming and then cutting trunk at the base followed by
paint of the stump with herbicide, the stump will break down over time
▪ stem injection – injecting the stem of woody weeds at a nominated location with herbicide to kill the
plant
▪ brush cutting/slashing – using a line trimmer or similar for weed control rather than removal,
effective on long, grassy weeds
▪ stump removal – if required, a stump grinder can be used to removal the large woody mass left
behind, encouraging faster break down of plant remains.
Advantages of manual weed control:
▪ particular species can be targeted rather than ‘blanket’ control
▪ can significantly reduce the weed seed bank when plants and all seed are removed
▪ mechanical removal is the most successful method of eradicating rhizomatous weeds as all the root
mass can be removed
▪ plants will not develop a ‘resistance’ to the control method
▪ can be used effectively in conjunction with other methods
▪ avoids the use of chemicals that could pose a risk to non-target areas and operators.
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Disadvantages of manual weed control:
▪ the process can be laborious and time-consuming, meaning that it is not economical for many weed
types
▪ seed bank within the topsoil will provide the basis for new crops
▪ key areas of plants can be left behind, such as bulbs or corms that can regrow under favourable
conditions
▪ large numbers of people hand weeding can result in greater damage to sensitive bushland areas.
Chemical Weed Control
The use of herbicides is the most common and cost-effective method of controlling many environmental
weeds because it can be targeted at particular species or weed classes, with large areas being treated in a
cost effect manner. There are a range of herbicides in common usage, with differing active ingredient(s) that
target different weed types.
Advantages of chemical weed control include:
▪ results apparent in a short time frame
▪ more likely to be effective on the entire plant
▪ can treat large areas in a cost-effective manner.
Disadvantages of chemical controls include:
▪ some plants, particularly those that have tuberous or rhizomatous root systems, may require follow
up treatments to ensure effective control
▪ some plants can develop a resistance to a particular herbicide
▪ herbicides have the potential to impact non-target flora and fauna species
▪ potential health effects on operators need to be considered and managed
▪ the use of herbicides by contractors are subject to complying with:
- permits for use in bushland areas (Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development
WA)
- operator licence requirements by the Department of Health WA.
Weed Treatment
Various treatments are commonly used in bushland areas that allow the targeting of weeds with minimal
off-target damage to native plants; treatments recommended for significant weeds at Chidley Point Reserve
are summarised in Table 6.
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Table 6: Weed Control Methodologies
Species Common Name Treatment Type1 Timing
▪ Spray 0.2 g metsulfuron methyl + Pulse® in 15 L water (or 2.5 - 5g /ha +
Pulse®)
Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper July – August
▪ Best results achieved when flowering
▪ Biological control agents available
Hand pull seedlings
For mature plants:
Brachychiton populneus Kurrajong ▪ stem injection with 50-100% glyphosate or Jan – Apr, Sep – Dec
▪ apply 250 ml Access® in 15 L of diesel to basal 50 cm of trunk (basal bark) or
▪ cut and paint with 50% glyphosate
▪ Hand remove small populations
Manual – Jun – Oct
▪ Spray metsulfuron methyl at 0.1 g/15 L (2 g/ha) + wetting agent OR
Centranthus macrosiphon Pretty Betsy Herbicide – Jul –
▪ Logran® at 12.5 g/100L + the penetrant Pulse ® is very effective on adults
Sept
and juveniles with little off-target damage in coastal heathlands
▪ Hand pull seedlings; try cut and paint or
Lemon-scented
Corymbia citriodora ▪ Inject root crown - 50 % glyphosate All year round
Gum
▪ Foliar spray regrowth - 1.5 % glyphosate
▪ Logran® at 12.5 g/100L + the penetrant Pulse ® is very effective on adults
and juveniles with little off-target damage in coastal heathlands
▪ Hand removal can stimulate germination of the soil seedbank -ensure
adequate personal protective clothing is worn to avoid contact with sap Manual – Jun – Nov
Geraldton
Euphorbia terracina ▪ Since seed production is highest from plants which emerge early, it is Herbicide – Jun –
Carnation Weed
important to control early cohorts, if not treated when small these become Aug
increasingly tolerant to herbicides
▪ Control of the late emergents before seed formation will prevent fresh
seeds being added to the existing seed bank
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Species Common Name Treatment Type1 Timing
▪ Slashing in November after seed production may result in no vegetative
regeneration due to lack of food reserves in the underground roots and
stem - the remaining underground plant parts cannot withstand hot dry
summer conditions
▪ Undertake control after any fire event
▪ Hand remove very small populations in degraded sites; sift soil to find all
corms
▪ Spray 2,2 DPA 10 g/L + Pulse® when flowering
Ferraria crispa Black Flag Aug – Sept
▪ In degraded sites try glyphosate 1% + metsulfuron methyl 0.2 g/15 L +
Pulse®
▪ Takes a number of years to control populations.
▪ Wipe individual leaves with glyphosate 10 % or
Gladiolus caryophyllaceus Pink Gladiolus ▪ Spray dense infestations in degraded areas with 1% glyphosate just on July - Sept
flowering at corm exhaustion
▪ Spot spray metsulfuron methyl 0.2 g/15 L + Pulse® or 2.5-5 g/ha + Pulse®
Herbicide application should be just on corm exhaustion
Gladiolus undulatus Wavy Gladiolus ▪ Physical removal can result in spread of cormels July
▪ Once the parent corm is killed cormels in the soil tend to lose dormancy and
germinate
Lachenalia reflexa Soldiers ▪ Spot spray metsulfuron methyl 0.2 g/15 L + Pulse® (2.5g-5 g/ha). July
▪ Apply 250 ml Access® in 15 L of diesel to base 50 cm of stems (basal bark) or
Lantana camara Lantana Mar - May
▪ Foliar spray with 1.5% glyphosate
▪ Hand remove scattered plants prior to flowering
Lupinus cosentinii Sandplain Lupin ▪ Spray dense infestations with metsulfuron methyl 0.1g/15 L (2-3 g/ha) + Jun - Sept
wetting agent
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Species Common Name Treatment Type1 Timing
▪ Larger areas can be treated with more selective herbicides such as 200 g/ha
Lontrel® or 50 g/ha Logran® (based on 500 L of water/ha)
▪ For spot spraying use 4 g Lontrel® or 1 g Logran® in 10 L of water + wetting
agent
▪ Glyphosate is relatively ineffective
▪ Hand pull or dig out seedlings and small plants ensuring removal of all roots
▪ For mature plants cut to base and paint 50% glyphosate or apply 250 ml Mar – May, Oct –
Olea europaea Olive
Access® in 15 L of diesel to base 50 cm of trunk (basal bark) Dec
▪ Monitor sites for seedling recruitment
▪ Hand pull seedlings ensuring removal of all root material
▪ Stem inject older plants using 50% glyphosate or basal bark with 250 ml
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian Pepper Dec – Mar
Access® in 15 L of diesel to bottom 50 cm of trunk during summer
▪ Avoid root disturbance until trees are confirmed dead
▪ Inject 100% glyphosate into root crown
▪ In pasture or degraded areas, manually removal all plant parts and follow up
control any regrowth
Tamarix aphylla Athel Pine ▪ In sensitive environments, cut stem to ground level, immediately paint with All year round
Access® 17ml/L in diesel (using glyphosate with cut stump is ineffective)
▪ Where there is limited risk of off-target damage or impacts on waterways
try foliar spray with triclopyr 600g/L at 1.7 to 10ml/L in water
▪ Exclude people and close tracks to stop spread
Manual – all year
▪ Hand remove small/isolated populations, pulling plants from the root crown
round
▪ Apply herbicide to prevent seed set
Tribulus terrestris Caltrop Herbicide – when
▪ Glyphosate at 1% is effective on seedlings
flowering to prevent
▪ On bare tracks diesel can be used to kill plants and penetrate and destroy
seed set
seed in surface soil
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Species Common Name Treatment Type1 Timing
▪ Wipe individual leaves with glyphosate 10% or
▪ Spray dense infestations with 2,2-DPA 10 g/L + Pulse®
▪ Apply just as flower spikes emerge at corm exhaustion
Watsonia meriana var.
Bulbil Watsonia ▪ 2,2-DPA at 5 g/L+ Pulse® is also quite effective and is appropriate to use September
bulbillifera
when particularly concerned about off-target damage, for example
following fire when Watsonia is growing among germinating native
seedlings and resprouting native shrubs
Source: Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, 2018
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4.1.8 Revegetation
Revegetation activities are recommended for the following locations (Figure 19):
▪ Area 1: along the steep slope from the carpark down towards the river (approx. 1 300 m2)
▪ Area 2: the degraded area south-east of the Chidley Way/Caporn Street intersection (2 200 m2
approx.)
▪ Area 3: informal access track 1 (approx. 30 m2).
Revegetation will be carried out
▪ either in-house or with the use of suitably qualified contractors
▪ using native species from the list provided in Appendix 6, and which has been developed based on
the flora survey outcomes
▪ on the basis of one tree to ten shrubs to 100 herbs to achieve a similar vegetation structure to that
present
▪ with the use of planting aids, including native plant fertiliser tablets and corflute tree guards.
Seed and/or Cuttings Collection
Seed collection should be undertaken during the warmer months of the year when mature seed is presenting
by collectors licensed by DBCA. Seed collection within Chidley Point Reserve and other local bushland
reserves can contribute to the generation of a seed bank to be utilised within all bushland reserves within
the Town. The use of suitable seed from nearby reserves will also increase the genetic diversity of flora
species within the reserve. Seed Collection in areas prior to a controlled burn would be beneficial as it can
take years for some species to set seed again post fire, this seed can also be used to revegetate the area
burnt if natural regeneration is unsuccessful.
Some plants propagate readily from cuttings, with material appropriately sources and processed by
collectors licenced by DBCA. Stock should be sourced 1-2 years prior to planting, allowing sufficient time for
propagation and for plants grow to a suitable size for installation.
Sourcing of Tubestock
It is recommended that tubestock is sourced from a Nursery and Garden Industry Western Australia
(NGIWA) accredited nursery and grown from local provenance seed and/or cuttings, hardened off and in
good condition prior to planting.
Direct Seeding
Direct seeding may be used as a stand-alone technique or in combination with tubestock. If direct seeding is
used as a revegetation technique, seeds will need to be treated according to species to encourage
germination. Factors to consider include:
▪ soil quality and past disturbance; analysis of pH and electrical conductivity will be helpful and tilling
and scarification of the soil is typically required
▪ if weeds are present, they will tend inhibit germinating seedlings; weed control a few seasons ahead
of direct seeding is recommended
▪ seeds will require pre-germination treatment ahead of the seeding program
▪ site protection against various disturbances including erosion and pest fauna such as rabbits is
recommended
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