FURTHER SURVEYS OF KOALAS - (PHASCOLARCTOS CINEREUS) LOCATED
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FURTHER SURVEYS OF KOALAS (PHASCOLARCTOS CINEREUS) LOCATED ON AND NEAR SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY’S LISMORE CAMPUS. PREPARED BY RHIANNA BLACKTHORN School of Environmental Science and Management Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2011 1
Acknowledgements I owe my deepest gratitude to Ross Goldingay for his guidance and assistance. I am grateful to Kirsty Howton for her passionate enthusiasm. This work would not be possible without you both. Thank you for having faith in me. Finally, I would like to thank my family. To my daughter, Brittany Tibbitts, who ensured I had hot meals after some long days. And to my partner, Joe Sparks, who is always an encouraging force in my life and has made available his support in numerous ways. Cover Photo An adult male koala climbs a tree after crossing the road from N Block to the Big Scrub Remnant on 19 November 2011. (Credit: Rhianna Blackthorn) Contact Rhianna Blackthorn School of Environmental Science and Management Southern Cross University Lismore, New South Wales, 2480 Australia Email rblack18@scu.edu.au Citation This report has been prepared by an undergraduate student and may not represent the University, its management or its staff. The report should be cited in the following format: Blackthorn, R. (2011). Further surveys of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) located on and near Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus. Unpublished Third Year Internship Report. School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University, Lismore. 2
A B ST RACT With the pressures of habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, fire and inadequate representation in the public reserves system, it is a necessity that conservation of biodiversity also occur on private lands. As conservation efforts increase, effective management of areas with biodiversity values is vital and rely in part on an inventory of the fauna present. The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is a threatened iconic species with more than a century of documented decline. Southern Cross University’s (SCU) Sustainability Policy Advisory Committee has recognised the need for a Koala Management Plan as a high priority. This requires that surveys be conducted to describe the locations and number of koalas on campus and on adjoining lands. The present study aimed to complement previous surveys of koalas on SCU’s Lismore campus by: i) conducting a spotlight survey over three previously documented transects and ii) conduct a spotlight census over two additional transects on land adjacent to SCU’s Lismore Campus. A spotlighting survey conducted over two nights in November 2011 identified a total of 23 adult koalas with six dependent juveniles. Fourteen adults (with three juveniles) were observed during 1.5 search hours on previously surveyed transects totalling 1.5km in length. Additionally, 9 adults (with three juveniles) were identified on two transects totalling 885 m on lands adjacent to the Lismore campus during three survey hours. These results are consistent with other recent surveys. The importance of these results can only be determined through further surveys for koalas over time on the lands owned by Southern Cross University and the immediate adjacent and surrounding areas. 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS Further surveys of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) located on and near Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus. ________________________________________ 1 Acknowledgements _______________________________________________________________ 2 Cover Photo _____________________________________________________________________ 2 Contact _________________________________________________________________________ 2 Citation ________________________________________________________________________ 2 Abstract___________________________________________________________________ 3 Table of Contents ___________________________________________________________ 4 List of Tables ______________________________________________________________ 5 List of Figures______________________________________________________________ 6 1. Introduction _____________________________________________________________ 7 1. Introduction _____________________________________________________________ 7 1.1 Background __________________________________________________________________ 7 1.2 Aspects of Biology_____________________________________________________________ 9 1.3 Relevant Legislation __________________________________________________________ 10 1.4 Problem Definition____________________________________________________________ 11 1.5 Aims and Objectives __________________________________________________________ 12 1.5.1 Objectives_______________________________________________________________ 12 2. Methods________________________________________________________________ 12 2.1 Site Description ______________________________________________________________ 12 2.1.1 Climate ______________________________________________________________ 13 2.1.2 Geomorphology _______________________________________________________ 13 2.1.3 Vegetation____________________________________________________________ 13 2.1.4 Land Use _______________________________________________________________ 14 2.2 Site Selection ________________________________________________________________ 15 2.3 Field Based Survey ___________________________________________________________ 16 3. Results _________________________________________________________________ 18 4. Discussion ______________________________________________________________ 20 4.1 Census Comparison ___________________________________________________________ 20 4.2 Management Options __________________________________________________________ 20 4.3 Notable Exclusions ___________________________________________________________ 21 4.3.1 Disease _________________________________________________________________ 21 4.3.2 Road mortalities __________________________________________________________ 21 4.3.3 Predation by domestic animals_______________________________________________ 21 4.3.4 Habitat and Food Trees ____________________________________________________ 22 4.4 Study Limitations_____________________________________________________________ 22 4.4.1 Time and Weather ________________________________________________________ 22 4.4.2 Technique_______________________________________________________________ 23 4.5 Incidental Sightings ___________________________________________________________ 23 5. Conclusion______________________________________________________________ 23 References ________________________________________________________________ 25 Appendix A _______________________________________________________________ 30 Map of the Land Assets owned by Southern Cross University._____________________________ 30 Appendix B _______________________________________________________________ 31 4
Spotlighting data results___________________________________________________________ 31 Sighighting obersvations mapped ___________________________________________________ 32 Appendix C _______________________________________________________________ 33 Friends of the Koala (Inc) Data for East Lismore 2007 – 2011 _____________________________ 33 Appendix D _______________________________________________________________ 37 Eucalyptus map of Southern Cross Univeristy (Credit: M. Dawes) _________________________ 37 Appendix E _______________________________________________________________ 40 Incidentals koala sighting data. _____________________________________________________ 40 Incidentals sightings of koalas mapped _______________________________________________ 41 Incidentals (Other) mapped ________________________________________________________ 42 LIST OF TABLES Table 1 Results of spotlighting surveys conducted during November, 2011. Adult numbers are listed with juvenile numbers in brackets._______________________________________________________ 18 Table 2 Complete spotlighting data from 15/11/11 and 22/11/11. Approximate coordinates are symbolized by (*). Where a dependant juvenile is sighted with an adult, “yes” is marked in the Joey column. _ 31 Table 3 Friends of the Koala inc. data for East Lismore for the period 2007 - 2011. The origionating location and fate of each individual is recorded. (Credit: Lorraine Vass) _____________________ 33 Table 4 Complete incidental koala sighting data obtained throughout the study period. It should be noted that all coordinates are approximates only. Where a dependant juvenile is sighted with an adult, “yes” is marked in the Joey column. ______________________________________________________ 40 5
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Koalas display a distinct preference for the new growth of certain Eucalypt species and are known for their fussy eating habits. (Credit: Owen Jones) _______________________________________ 9 Figure 2 This female koala slouches forward in the rain, having just avoided a pursuing male. Her joey can be seen bulging through her pouch. (Credit: Rhianna Blackthorn) _______________________ 10 Figure 3 A map displaying the transects surveyed during this study period. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) ______________________________________________________________________________ 16 Figure 4 This sub adult koala was spotted sleeping in a tree near Z block. Note the white rump that is highlighted during nocturnal spotlight searches. (Credit: Rhianna Blackthorn) ________________ 17 Figure 5 A Google Earth™ image indicating the location of the sole koala sightings for Transect 2 (Source: ©2011 Google Earth) _____________________________________________________ 18 Figure 6 An image indicating the location of koala sightings on Transect 1 during 22 November 2011. A star indicates a mother with a joey while a diamond indicates an unknown sex. (Source: ©2011 Google Earth)___________________________________________________________________ 19 Figure 7 A map identifying the two transects that were removed from the survey due to time restrictions. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) _____________________________________________________ 22 Figure 8 A map indicating the land assets owned by Southern Cross University map (1:3000 scale). (Source: (Newton Denny Chapelle Consulting Surveyors and Planning, 2009).________________ 30 Figure 9 Location of all koalas identified through the spotlighting technique throughout the survey period. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) _____________________________________________________ 32 Figure 10 A map of Eucalypts on Southern Cross Universities Lismore Campus. (Credit: M Dawes) ___ 37 Figure 11 A species lists to accompany Figure 12. (Credit: M. Dawes)___________________________ 38 Figure 12 The Arboretum (referred to in figure 12) was planted by the students from the "Forest Health Pests & Disease" Maxine Dawes and Doland Nichols in 2003. (Credit: M. Dawes)_____________ 39 Figure 13 Incidental koala sightings throughout the survey period. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) ____ 41 Figure 14 Incidental non koala sightings throughout the survey period. Birds are denoted by a blue dot, mammals with an orange dot and insects by a purple dot. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) _______ 42 6
1. INTRODUCTION The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is an iconic Australian species with considerable significance to natural biodiversity and tourism. Historically found throughout eastern and south eastern Australia, extensive habitat clearing since the European settlement has resulted in habitat fragmentation and population isolation (Phillips & Callaghan, 1996; Government of New South Wales, 2000; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010; Australian Koala Foundation, 2011). This habitat clearing, along with pressures arising from historic hunting, fire, drought and disease has resulted in drastic declines in their populations. In 1986, National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) noted declines of up to 70% throughout the known geographic range in New South Wales (NSW) (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Lunney, Urquhart, & Reed, 1988; Whitehouse, 1988). Koalas are poorly represented through the public reserve system and the majority of remaining koala habitat is located on private lands (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Lunney, et al., 1988; Whitehouse, 1988; Phillips & Callaghan, 2000; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010; Callaghan, et al., 2011). The importance of community involvement in koala conservation is emphasised in the National Koala Conservation and Management Strategy (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010). The Southern Cross University’s Sustainability Committee identified a need to obtain information about the koalas on the Lismore campus, and gave it a high priority to this focus during 2011 - 2012. A preliminary study was undertaken in mid 2011 that recorded 25 adult koalas in the working areas of the campus (Williams, 2011). The present study seeks to expand on those findings to assist future management options. 1.1 Background The value of the koala and its habitat has altered since the times of European settlement. Early settlers used koalas to supply the lucrative fur and skins trade. In 1902 the NSW government purchased 600,000 koala skins and although strongly opposed by some politicians, the first legislation to protect koalas from hunting was introduced by the same government one year later (Government of New South Wales, 1904). There is debate in 7
the literature as to the extent of effects caused by this large scale hunting (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Lunney, et al., 1988; Martin & Handasyde, 1999), however, that will not be explored here. The first koala survey in NSW was conducted in 1949 by the Fauna Protection Panel. In a 1959 edition of the department’s journal “Wild Life Service”, habitat clearing was named as the major factor affecting the survival of the koala (Lunney, et al., 1988). It was not until the airing of the ABC program “A Big Country” in 1984, that public debate about the survival of the koala started (Lunney & Reed, 1988). As a result of this public pressure, NPWS conducted a census of koalas in 1986 resulting in the first major published survey that documented the distribution of koalas in the state (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Whitehouse, 1988). The results outlined that most remaining habitat was located on private land resulting in increasing fragmentation (Whitehouse, 1988; Seymour, 2004; Williams, 2011). During the following year, the first attempt by the NSW Government to address koala management concerns was realised with the koala summit, a two day conference conducted in Sydney and attended by 180 people (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Lunney, et al., 1988; Whitehouse, 1988). The first National Koala Conservation Strategy was published in 1998 and identified key threatening processes and appropriate mitigation plans. A review conducted during 2008 identified some major limitations to the strategy resulting in the publication of the 2009 – 2014 National Koala Conservation and Management Strategy (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010). In November 2008, the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change released a state wide recovery plan. The same department (reborn as NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water) undertook a state wide survey of koalas a year later. This is the most recent state wide study on koalas to date and highlights the need for private conservation efforts of koala habitat (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010). 8
1.2 Aspects of Biology Koalas are obligate folivorous mammals, which feed primarily on the genus Eucalyptus (Lee & Martin, 1996; Martin & Handasyde, 1999). The list of preferred species seems to vary regionally and koalas have been known to selectively browse some species outside this genus (Phillips, Callaghan, & Payne, 1995; Phillips & Callaghan, 2000; Phillips, Callaghan, & Thompson, 2000; Taylor, 2000; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA), 2010; Callaghan, et al., 2011; Williams, 2011). With a preference for certain foliage even within Eucalyptus, the koala is known for its fastidious dietary requirements (Figure 1). Figure 1 Koalas display a distinct preference for the new growth of certain Eucalypt species and are known for their fussy eating habits. (Credit: Owen Jones) Adult koalas range in weight from 4kg to 13.5kg and males may be up to 50% larger than females of the same age. Regional variation between koalas exists with Victorian animals (adult female average 7.9kg) being larger than those from Queensland (adult female average 5.1kg) (Lee & Martin, 1996). The koala has a large face that is void of a distinctive muzzle and has a head to body ratio similar to that of an 18 month old human baby (Martin & Handasyde, 1999). They have forward facing eyes with vertical pupil slits and a golden brown iris. Unlike many arboreal mammals, the koala sits upright, even when sleeping. The koala has a 9
rudimentary tail that is hidden by its fur. Long powerful limbs with relatively large hands and feet aid movement while two opposable digits on the hands create a powerful grip (Figure 2). Figure 2 This female koala slouches forward in the rain, having just avoided a pursuing male. Her joey can be seen bulging through her pouch. (Credit: Rhianna Blackthorn) Regional variations in fur colour and coverage exists with Southern NSW and Victorian animals having a thicker, longer wool coat and furred ears both inside and outside of the ear flap. Northern NSW and Queensland koalas have a shorter coat with a thinner sparse ear covering that, in comparison, makes them appear naked. Coat colouration varies from chocolate brown to grey. Southern populations generally appear darker than their northern counterparts (Lee & Martin, 1996). White patches especially on the rump, inside arms, chin, face and ears are common and are known to become tawny coloured with age. 1.3 Relevant Legislation In NSW, the koala is listed as vulnerable under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 (Government of New South Wales, 2011; New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, 2011). Additional to this listing, two populations are listed as endangered. They are identified as the Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens population of the Great Lakes shire and the population located at Pittwater within the Warringah LGA (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010; New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, 2011). 10
Additional to the measures already outlined, core koala habitat within NSW is protected under the State Environmental Planning Policy No. 44. Named the “Koala Habitat Protection Policy”, it aims to encourage conservation and management of areas that provide natural vegetation and habitat for koalas that will ultimately ensure they remain permanently free living within their present range (Government of New South Wales, 2000). There is no current national listing for the koala under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) (Department of Sustainability, Environment, Population and Community, 1999), however, an application for listing is currently being considered with an outcome expected in February 2012 (Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2011). In 2000, the United States of America Fish and Wildlife Service listed the koala as a threatened species on the Endangered Species Act (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010). The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List has registered the koala as “least concern” (Gordon, et al., 2008). Finally, it should be noted that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) does not make provision for the Koala in their listings. 1.4 Problem Definition The importance for localised conservation of the koala is recognised by many levels of government and community (Moore, 1988; Phillips & Callaghan, 1996; Government of New South Wales, 2000; Phillips & Callaghan, 2000; Phillips, et al., 2000; Southern Cross University, 2006; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010; Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2011; Williams, 2011). The SCU Sustainability Action Plan (2011 – 2012) recognises that the sustainability of biodiversity on the campus and its continual management are of a high priority (Howton, 2011b, 2011a). This will be achieved, in part, through the 11
eventual development of a Flora and Fauna Management Plan which could incorporate a Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management (CKPoM). Previous student studies have detailed the populations of koalas in the Lismore Local Government Area (LGA) (Keyte, 1989; Faulks, 1990; Taylor, 2000; Vlastuin, 2001; Seymour, 2004; Woodman, 2005; Williams, 2011). The most recent (Williams, 2011) provided an initial count of the sub-population of koalas located within the main business areas of Southern Cross University’s Lismore Campus (2011). This study documented 25 adult koalas across six transects on a single night. It is unclear whether this number reflects how many are resident within the campus grounds or whether there may have been a seasonal and temporary influx. This requires confirmation by additional spotlighting surveys. In addition, there is a need to conduct surveys in some of the peripheral areas that were not covered by Williams (2011). 1.5 Aims and Objectives The aim of this study was to conduct repeat surveys within the campus area previously surveyed. Additionally, the study aims to survey some areas peripheral to the active area of the campus. 1.5.1 Objectives • To conduct a spotlight survey over three previously documented transects. • To conduct a spotlight census over two additional transects on land adjacent to SCU’s Lismore Campus. 2. METHODS 2.1 Site Description The main campus for Southern Cross University is located at Lismore, New South Wales, (28o 49’S., 152o 18’E) approximately 800 km north of Sydney. The Lismore Local Government Area (LGA) has a population of 44,225 people. The urban areas of Lismore 12
and its main business district are situated on the banks of the Wilsons River and its surrounding floodplains which supports 61.2% (27,067) of the total population (Lismore City Council, 2011). 2.1.1 Climate The climate can be described as predominately subtropical featuring warm humid summers and mild winters (Bureau of Meteorology, 2011). Mean temperatures recorded at the Lismore Weather Station range from 18.8oC (minimum) to 29.9oC (maximum) during January (summer) and 6.5oC (minimum) to 19.9oC (maximum) during July (winter). Annual average rainfall is 1343 mm with January to March being the wettest months recorded, attributing to 38.8% of the annual total (Bureau of Meteorology, 2011). This results in the region being known as one of the wettest areas in the state with a high amount of erosive rainfall (Morand, 1994; Bureau of Meteorology, 2011). 2.1.2 Geomorphology The influence of the Mount Warning Shield Volcano is evident in the low rolling hills of the region and is typified at Lismore Campus. The Tertiary Lamington Volcanics on which Lismore is situated originated as lava flows from an eruption approximately 20 million years ago and cover the majority of the sheet to a depth of up to 200m (Morand, 1994). Basalt foundations with rhyolite and sedimentary rocks, known as Lismore Basalt, have been enriched by non volcanic material including gravels, sands, ancient soils and clays during periods of erosion (Morand, 1994). 2.1.3 Vegetation The “Big Scrub” was the largest continual expanse of rainforest in Australia covering some 75,000 hectares of northern New South Wales, historically taking in the study site. Extensive clearing has reduced it to less than 1% of its original size (Lott & Duggin, 1993; Specht & Specht, 2002) and is now identified as an endangered ecological community (Department of Environment and Climate Change (NSW), 2006). Today this forest exists only in a fragmented mosaic of remnants existing on private property and 13
public lands (Specht & Specht, 2002; Catterall & Green, 2011). One such remnant exists on the Lismore campus and conforms to the description identified by expert rainforest botanist Alexander Floyd as Castanospermum australe - Dysoxylum muelleri sub- alliance, Argyrodendron trifoliatum alliance, subtropical rainforest (1999). Other areas of the study site feature post disturbance dry rainforest regrowth containing some big scrub species and exotic weeds. Morand (1994) describes current vegetation in the area as closed dry sclerophyll forests with fragmented subtropical rainforests, however, much of the area is dominated by invasive weed species such as small and broad leafed privet (Ligustrum sinense and L. lucidum), camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and lantana (Lantana camara). Various native species have been deliberately planted and form part of the lush ornamental gardens. Wild regrowth that is predominately eucalypt is also evident. This include species such as flooded gum (Eucalyptus grandis), forest red gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), grey gum (Eucalyptus propinqua), grey ironbark (Eucalyptus paniculata), red bloodwood (Eucalyptus gummifera) and tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys). White mahogany (Eucalyptus acmenoides), red mahogany (Eucalyptus resinifera) and swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) are also present. 2.1.4 Land Use From 1890 until recent times, Lismore supported high primary productivity with industries such as cedar getting, cattle grazing, macadamia farming, banana cultivation & sugar cane production. Evidence of this agricultural past remains in the current fragmented landscape. Land use conflicts in the region are increasing with the demands for continuing urban development. This trend is likely to continue as local populations are predicted to rise by up to 33% by 2021, making it one of the fastest growing regional areas in the state (Morand, 1994; Department of Planning (NSW), 2010). The Lismore campus of Southern Cross University covers 75 ha (Southern Cross University, 2011a) just 3 km from Lismore’s main business district. During the 2010 14
academic year, 2605 students studied internally at the campus (Southern Cross University, 2011b). Up to 3090 external students were registered during the same period and may have visited the campus for residential study periods. The Lismore campus employed 916 staff on a permanent basis during 2010; however, an estimate of casual staff was unavailable (Southern Cross University, 2011b). 2.2 Site Selection Southern Cross University owns approximately 158 ha of land in Lismore excluding the Vice Chancellor’s residence and conference centre, though, only 75 ha are considered the active areas. This encompasses some 22 lots that are bordered by a mixture of privately owned residences, industrial sites and public lands (Appendix A). Williams (2011) surveyed the active areas of the campus grounds but noted that her survey site ignored potential wildlife corridors and habitat linkages to adjacent areas. Therefore, census sites were chosen that were in close proximity to the campus and that may form part of a potential wildlife corridor. In order to sample from as much uninterrupted koala habitat as possible, two transects of varying lengths were sampled. Transect 1 was 195 m in length and covered Lots 3 (DP883372), 12 (DP802344) and 20 (DP606535). Transect 2 was 690 m in length and took in Airforce Road and Lots 471 and 472 (DP755718). The distance between the two transects is 110 m and is intercepted by Industrial Drive (Figure 3). 15
Figure 3 A map displaying the transects surveyed during this study period. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) 2.3 Field Based Survey A large variety of techniques for detecting koalas have been detailed in the literature that includes nocturnal spotlighting, diurnal canopy searches, identifying scat via tree utilisation studies, broadcasting calls, observing bark damage on trunks and monitoring changes in canopy cover (Phillips, et al., 2000; Vlastuin, 2001; Seymour, 2004; Woodman, 2005; Callaghan, et al., 2011; Williams, 2011). This census employed the nocturnal spotlighting techniques utilised by Williams (2011). 16
Aided by a 50 watt 12 volt spotlight, each transect was searched for 30 minutes on two separate nights during November 2011. All trees located within the study area were searched from multiple angles to maximise sighting opportunities. Koalas are detected when the light produces a (reflected) shine on the eyes, or when their white rumps are highlighted against the darker canopy and sky (Figure 4). Binoculars were used to confirm ambiguous sightings. All animals observed during active search periods were documented. Figure 4 This sub adult koala was spotted sleeping in a tree near Z block. Note the white rump that is highlighted during nocturnal spotlight searches. (Credit: Rhianna Blackthorn) An initial survey was conducted on 15 November 2011. Five transects were surveyed in total. Three of these transects were those used by Williams (2011) and are identified as Transect A, B and C. The two new transects are identified as Transect 1 and 2. The spotlighting survey of Transects A, B and C commenced at 2000 h (eastern daylight savings time) and concluded at 2130 h. Transects 1 and 2 were surveyed from 2200 h until 2330 h. A follow up census was conducted on 22 November 2011. Transects 1 and 2 were surveyed from 2000 h and concluded at 2130 h. The GPS location of all sightings conducted this night were noted. 17
3 . R E SUL T S On 15 November 2011, 23 adults and five dependent juveniles were sighted (Table 1). Of this total, 14 adults with three juveniles were observed on Transects A, B &C. Eight adults (three with juveniles) were sighted on Transect 1 and one adult was observed on Transect 2 (Figure 5). Table 1 Results of spotlighting surveys conducted during November, 2011. Adult numbers are listed with juvenile numbers in brackets. Date Transect A Transect B Transect C Transect 1 Transect 2 15/11/11 5 (1) 4 (2) 5 8 (3) 1 22/11/11 - - - 7 (2) 0 Figure 5 A Google Earth™ image indicating the location of the sole koala sightings for Transect 2 (Source: ©2011 Google Earth) 18
In the follow up census conducted one week later on 22 November 2011 seven adults with two juveniles were observed on Transect 1 (Figure 6). No observations were recorded for Transect 2. The coordinates and maps for these observations are provided in Appendix B. Figure 6 An image indicating the location of koala sightings on Transect 1 during 22 November 2011. A star indicates a mother with a joey while a diamond indicates an unknown sex. (Source: ©2011 Google Earth) 19
4. DISCUSSION 4.1 Census Comparison Several studies have been conducted on koalas and their associated habitat in the Lismore LGA (Keyte, 1989; Faulks, 1990; Phillips, et al., 1995; Taylor, 2000; Vlastuin, 2001; Lismore City Council & Pimm, 2003; Seymour, 2004; Woodman, 2005; Williams, 2011). Phillips and Callaghan (1995) noted that the koala population observed at Lismore were some of the highest densities in eastern NSW. They estimated a population density of more than 1 animal per hectare. Seymour (2004) sighted 22 koalas on transects totalling 9 km over 30 hours. Williams detected 25 koalas on transects totalling 5.25 km located on the campus during a spotlighting survey conducted over four hours on 30 August 2011. Surveys on Transects A, B and C in the present study detected 14 animals, with three juveniles evident. This result was from transects totalling 1.5 km in length and took 1.5 hours to survey. There were also eight koalas with three juveniles observed on 15 November 2011on Transects 1 and 2 totalling just 885 m. These findings support the results reported by Williams (2011). The estimate of 100 – 300 koalas in Lismore LGA by Phillips and Callaghan (1995) seems plausible. 4.2 Management Options Despite a vast amount of literature detailing the key factors associated with the decline of koala populations across NSW, the downward trend in state numbers continues (Lunney & Reed, 1988; Phillips, et al., 1995; Phillips & Callaghan, 1996; Martin & Handasyde, 1999; Lismore City Council & Pimm, 2003; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010). Furthermore, after more than a decade of koala research in the Lismore LGA being produced through SCU’s undergraduates and postgraduates, clear management plans regarding koalas is still lacking both by Lismore City Council and Southern Cross University. Commitment to koala conservation, particularly by policy makers would go a long way into ensuring the persistence of this species locally. 20
4.3 Notable Exclusions Koala populations are known to be threatened by several factors outside of habitat loss. While these causes are outside the scope of this study, they are noted here for future study recommendations and options. 4.3.1 Disease A high instance of Chlamydia seems likely for a significant portion of the koalas located within the LGA (Phillips, et al., 1995). It has been estimated that the disease affects over 30% of the local population (Keyte, 1989; Faulks, 1990). Lorraine Vass, president of Friends of the Koala (FoK) reports that of the 27 diseased koalas reported in East Lismore during the 2007 – 2011 period (Appendix C), 44% were euthanased, 22% just required advice, 11% were dead and 7% (each) were released, in care and avoided capture. 4.3.2 Road mortalities The impact of traffic on koala populations has been noted by several studies (Phillips, et al., 1995; Gordon, et al., 2008; Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010; Australian Koala Foundation, 2011). Lismore campus is in close proximity to several busy roads: Bruxner Highway, Industrial Drive / Cynthia Wilson Drive, Military Road and Invercauld road. The campus itself receives a large amount of through traffic via Kellas Street, Military Road and Rifle Range Road. The restrictions in speed limits through the greater urban area and the campus proper may be an attributing factor to the high census data obtained for the campus and its immediate surrounding areas. Notwithstanding, 9% of koalas treated at the FoK hospital during the 31 May 2011 – 11 August 2011 were victims of car strike (Friends of the Koala Inc, 2011b). 4.3.3 Predation by domestic animals Dogs have been identified as a major threat to koalas (Australian Koala Foundation; Phillips, et al., 1995; Friends of the Koala inc, 2011a). Although they are prohibited on the Campus, dogs were observed being walked on the grounds off leash during the study period. The effects of such activities are outside the scope of this report however, it 21
should be noted that 5% of all koalas treated at FOK during 31 May 2011 – 11 August 2011 were victims of dog attacks (Friends of the Koala Inc, 2011b). 4.3.4 Habitat and Food Trees Williams (2011) reported the primary food trees of the local population to be Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. microcorys, E. robusta and E. grandis. These findings seem consistent amongst the literature documenting tree requirements of local populations (Phillips, et al., 1995; Taylor, 2000; Vlastuin, 2001; Woodman, 2005). Some deliberate planting of preferred food trees is evident (Southern Cross University, 2006), and habitat mapping published by Williams complements exiting maps (Appendix D) (Dawes, 2005, 2010), however, many areas on the campus that would be ideal for habitat and supportive plantings have been noted. 4.4 Study Limitations 4.4.1 Time and Weather It was anticipated that four transects would be surveyed during this study period, however, weather extremes hindered efforts. The additional transects (Figure 7) form part of a greater wildlife corridor and should be priority for future study options in this area. Figure 7 A map identifying the two transects that were removed from the survey due to time restrictions. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) 22
4.4.2 Technique It is unlikely that all koalas within a study area will be detected by spotlighting techniques (Goldingay & Daly, 1997; Goldingay & Sharpe, 2004). The findings of this report should be treated as a base line result – the minimum of koalas present. The density of the canopy in some parts of the study area can restrict vision, making detection difficult. These results could be improved with additional methodologies such as the recording of scats, tree trunk disturbance and diurnal searches. Further studies are needed to expand on these results using suggested methodologies. 4.5 Incidental Sightings Koalas that were observed outside of the spotlighting survey are documented in Appendix E. Figure 14 in Appendix E which details incidental sightings of non targeted species is included here for possible inclusion in future Flora and Fauna Management Plans. 5. CONCLUSION The koala is an internationally recognised iconic species with important links to national biodiversity. Although abundant in Victoria, populations in NSW and Qld are listed as threatened, and are notably declining. State census data indicate a reduction of up to 70% and management decisions are guided in part by survey results such as this (Porteus, Richardson, & Reynolds, 2011). Despite a long documented history of Koalas in Lismore, census data indicates that populations and habitat continues to contract. Phillips and Callaghan (1995) noted the potential for the extinction of the local population in just two to three generations – approximately 20 to 30 years. While this is indeed a grim picture, timely conservation efforts are required from all levels of government, (particularly policy makers), private organisations and the general public. 23
This study listed two objectives; i) conduct a spotlighting survey that on three transects originally outlined by Williams (2011), and ii) conduct a spotlighting survey on areas adjacent to the Lismore campus. Due to time constraints, one of the primary objectives was not fully realised. Only two of the proposed four peripheral transects were surveyed. The data obtained from those two transects fulfils the requirements of the remaining objectives. A total of 23 adults (with six juveniles) were sighted during one night of census. These results are consistent with the findings of Williams (2011). The value and importance of these findings can only be realised through repeated and expanded habitat searches. The employment of techniques other than nocturnal spotlighting searches may improve results. Continued over time, census data in the LGA are required to ensure policies are tailored to ensure the survival of this species. 24
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http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/nominations-fpal- extensions.html Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts (2010). National Koala Conservation and Management Strategy 2009-2014. from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/koala- strategy/index.html. Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) (2010). National Koala Conservation and Management Strategy 2009-2014. from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/koala- strategy/index.html. Faulks, J. (1990). The Ranging Behaviour of Koalas. Unpublished B.App.Sc(Hons) Thesis. Southern Cross University. Floyd, A. (1999). Australian Rainforests in New South Wales (Vol. 2). Sydney, NSW: Surrey Beatty and Sons. Friends of the Koala inc (2011a). Responsible Dog Ownership and Koalas. Lismore, New South Wales: Friends of the Koala. Friends of the Koala Inc (2011b). Treetops (September 2011 Newsletter). Goldingay, R. L., & Daly, G. (1997). Surveys of aboreal and terrestrial mammals in the montane forests of Queanbeyan, New South Wales. Australian Mammalogy, 20, 9-19. Goldingay, R. L., & Sharpe, D. J. (2004). How effective is spotlighting for detecting the squirrel glider? Australian Wildlife Research, 31, 443-449. Gordon, G., Menkhorst, P., Robinson, T., Lunney, D., Martin, R., & Ellis, M. (2008). Phascolarctos cinereus. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Retrieved 29 November, 2011, from http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/16892/0 Government of New South Wales (1904). NSW Parlimentary Debates. Government of New South Wales (2000). State Environmental Planning Policy No 44— Koala Habitat Protection. Retrieved 29 November 2011. from http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/maintop/view/inforce/epi+5+1995+cd+0+N. Government of New South Wales (2011). National Parks Parks and Wildlife Act (1974). Retrieved 1 December 2011. from http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/xref/inforce/?xref=Type%3Dact%20AND%20 Year%3D1974%20AND%20no%3D80&nohits=y. 26
Howton, K. (2011a). SCU's Commitment to Sustainability Retrieved 6 December, 2011, from http://www.scu.edu.au/sustainability/index.php/2/ Howton, K. (2011b). Southern Cross University's Sustainability Action Plan 2011 - 2012 Retrieved 6 December, 2011, from http://www.scu.edu.au/sustainability/index.php/27 Keyte, P. (1989). Health Status of Koalas in the Lismore (NSW) Area and Implications for their Management. Unpublished Third Year Undergraduate Report. Southern Cross University. Lee, A., & Martin, R. (1996). The Koala: A natural history. Sydney, New South Wales: University of New South Wales Press. Lismore City Council (2011). City Statistics Retrieved 21 May, 2011, from http://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/cp_themes/default/page.asp?p=DOC-ECR-77-07- 64&c=112 Lismore City Council, & Pimm, S. (2003). Draft: Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management for the South-eastern portion of the Lismore Local Government Area (Part A: The Plan). Lismore, New South Wales. Lott, R. H., & Duggin, J. A. (1993). Conservation significance and long term viability of Subtropical Rainforest Remnants of the Big Scrub, North-Eastern New South Wales. Sydney, NSW: Australian Heritage Commission, NSW Department of Planning. Lunney, D., & Reed, P. (1988). Habitat loss: the key problem for the long-term survival of koalas in New South Wales. Paper presented at the Koala Summit: Managing Koalas in New South Wales, Sydney, NSW. Lunney, D., Urquhart, C. A., & Reed, P. (1988). Preface. Paper presented at the Koala Summit: Managing Koalas in New South Wales, Sydney, NSW. Martin, R., & Handasyde, K. (1999). The Koala: Natural history, conservation and management. Sydney, New South Wales: University of New South Wales Press. Moore, T. (1988). The position of the NSW State Government in koala conservation. Paper presented at the Koala Summit: Managing Koalas in New South Wales, Sydney, NSW. Morand, D. T. (1994). Soul Landscapes of the Lismore - Ballina 1:100,000 Sheet. Sydney, NSW: Map, Soil Conservation Service of NSW. 27
New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage (2011). NSW Threatened Species Legislation. OEH Act Summaries Retrieved 30 August, 2011, from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/legislation/DECCActsummaries.htm#TSC Newton Denny Chapelle Consulting Surveyors and Planning (Cartographer). (2009). Southern Cross Univeristy Lismore Land Assets boundaries map. Phillips, S., & Callaghan, J. (1996). Koala Habitat Atlas Project No. 4 : Tweed Coast Retrieved 29 November, 2011, from https://www.savethekoala.com/pdfworddocs/akfprojects/Tweed%20Coast%20Ko ala%20Habitat%20Atlas.pdf Phillips, S., & Callaghan, J. (2000). Tree species preferences of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in the Campbelltown area south-west of Sydney, New South Wales. Wildlife Research, 27(5), 509-516. Phillips, S., Callaghan, J., & Payne, R. (1995). Koala Managmenet Study for Goonellabah and East Lismore: Draft Report for Public Discussion., from The Australian Koala Foundation: Phillips, S., Callaghan, J., & Thompson, V. (2000). The tree species preferences of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) inhabiting forest and woodland communities on Quaternary deposits in the Port Stephens area, New South Wales. Wildlife Research, 27(1), 1-10. Porteus, T. A., Richardson, S. M., & Reynolds, J. C. (2011). The importance of survey design in distance sampling: field evaluation using domestic sheep. Australian Wildlife Research, 38(3), 221-234. Seymour, V. (2004). Community-based and spotlighting surveys of the koalas in the north-eastern portion of the Lismore shire. Unpublished Third Year Undergraduate Report. School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University. Southern Cross University (2006, 21 May 2011). Tree planting provides shelter for koalas. Communications and Publications, from http://www.scu.edu.au/news/media.php?item_id=668&action=show_item&type= M Southern Cross University (2011a). About Us: Lismore. Retrieved 28 November, 2011, from http://www.scu.edu.au/about/index.php/5/ Southern Cross University (2011b). SCU at a Glance. Retrieved 28 November, 2011, from http://www.scu.edu.au/pqr/index.php/7/ 28
Specht, R. L., & Specht, A. (2002). Australian Plant Communities: Dynamics of Structure, Growth and Biodiversity: Oxford University Press. Taylor, A. (2000). Habitat Utilisation and Dietary Preferences of Koalas within the East Lismore and Goonellabah Urban Areas. Unpublished Honours Thesis. Southern Cross University. Vlastuin, J. (2001). Tree utalisation by koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) within the urban areas of East Lismore and Goonellabah. Unpublished Unpublished Third Year Undergraduate Report. School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University. Whitehouse, J. F. (1988). The role of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in koala conservation. Paper presented at the Koala Summit: Managing Koalas in New South Wales, Sydney, NSW. Williams, M. (2011). A preliminary survey of koalas and vegetation for future management options within the Southern Cross University Campus, Lismore. Unpublished Third Year Undergraduate Report. School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University. Woodman, A. (2005). An age profile and recruitment assessment of koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) habitat in public reserves of the Lismore region. Unpublished Unpublished Third Year Undergraduate Report. School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University. 29
APPENDIX A Map of the Land Assets owned by Southern Cross University. Figure 8 A map indicating the land assets owned by Southern Cross University map (1:3000 scale). (Source: (Newton Denny Chapelle Consulting Surveyors and Planning, 2009). 30
APPENDIX B Spotlighting data results Table 2 Complete spotlighting data from 15/11/11 and 22/11/11. Approximate coordinates are symbolized by (*). Where a dependant juvenile is sighted with an adult, “yes” is marked in the Joey column. Id # Date Time Transect Lat Long Sex Age Joey K0001 15/11/2011 2020 A 28°49'6.97"S * 153°17'52.87"E * Unknown Sub Adult K0002 15/11/2011 2020 A 28°49'6.97"S * 153°17'52.84"E * Unknown Adult K0003 15/11/2011 2025 A 28°49'6.19"S * 153°17'54.04"E * Female Adult Yes K0004 15/11/2011 2030 A 28°49'2.34"S * 153°17'58.27"E * Unknown Sub Adult K0005 15/11/2011 2035 A 28°49'2.35"S * 153°17'58.26"E * Unknown Adult K0006 15/11/2011 2000 B 28°49'5.74"S * 153°18'4.04"E * Unknown Sub Adult K0007 15/11/2011 2020 B 28°49'12.40"S * 153°18'3.49"E * Female Adult Yes K0008 15/11/2011 2040 B 28°49'11.78"S * 153°18'7.77"E * Male Unknown K0009 15/11/2011 2050 B 28°49'8.58"S * 153°18'9.08"E * Female Adult Yes K0010 15/11/2011 - C 28°48'59.51"S * 153°18'19.92"E * Unknown Unknown K0011 15/11/2011 - C 28°48'59.02"S * 153°18'18.67"E * Unknown Unknown K0012 15/11/2011 - C 28°49'1.05"S * 153°18'14.97"E * Unknown Unknown K0013 15/11/2011 - C 28°49'1.23"S * 153°18'15.17"E * Unknown Unknown K0014 15/11/2011 - C 28°49'1.41"S * 153°18'15.32"E * Unknown Unknown K0015 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Female Adult Yes K0016 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Sub Adult K0017 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown K0018 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown K0019 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Female Adult Yes K0020 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown K0021 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown K0022 15/11/2011 - 1 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown K0023 15/11/2011 2230 2 28°49'25.13"S * 153°18'4.92"E * Male Adult K0024 22/11/2011 2025 1 28°49'12.62"S 153°18'8.76"E Unknown Unknown K0025 22/11/2011 2033 1 28°49'12.49"S 153°18'8.58"E Unknown Sub Adult K0026 22/11/2011 2040 1 28°49'16.52"S 153°18'7.52"E Unknown Unknown K0027 22/11/2011 2043 1 28°49'16.10"S 153°18'7.63"E Unknown Unknown K0028 22/11/2011 2049 1 28°49'18.21"S 153°18'6.34"E Unknown Sub Adult K0029 22/11/2011 2054 1 28°49'17.70"S 153°18'4.35"E Unknown Unknown K0030 22/11/2011 2116 1 28°49'11.81"S 153°18'7.73"E Female Adult Yes 31
Sighighting obersvations mapped Figure 9 Location of all koalas identified through the spotlighting technique throughout the survey period. (Source: © 2011 Google Earth) 32
APPENDIX C Friends of the Koala (Inc) Data for East Lismore 2007 – 2011 Table 3 Friends of the Koala inc. data for East Lismore for the period 2007 - 2011. The origionating location and fate of each individual is recorded. (Credit: Lorraine Vass) Date Location Address Health Status Fate Gender 22-Oct-05 East Lismore Skyline Rd Orphan In Care F 30-Jul-07 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Dr Healthy Advice only 31-Jul-07 East Lismore 5 Felicity Dr Diseased Euthanased M 16-Aug-07 East Lismore Skyline Rd Healthy Advice only F 28-Aug-07 East Lismore 33 College St Healthy Advice only F 10-Sep-07 East Lismore Neilson St Healthy Advice only F 11-Sep-07 East Lismore 20 Zambelli Dr Healthy Advice only 18-Sep-07 East Lismore Military Rd Diseased Euthanased M 28-Sep-07 East Lismore Cnr Wyrallah and Smith St Healthy Advice only F 29-Sep-07 East Lismore 15 Garden St Diseased/trauma Released M 01-Oct-07 East Lismore Military Rd Unknown Advice only 24-Oct-07 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Dr Healthy Advice only M 30-Oct-07 East Lismore 123 Wyrallah Rd Healthy Advice only M 05-Jan-08 East Lismore 174 Skyline Rd South Diseased Euthanased F 27-Jan-08 East Lismore 32 Esmond St Diseased Euthanased M 28-Jan-08 East Lismore South Skyline Rd Healthy Advice only M 05-Feb-08 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Dr Unknown Advice only M 08-Feb-08 East Lismore Rifle Range Rd Trauma Euthanased M 15-Apr-08 East Lismore Skyline Rd Durheim Rd Healthy Advice only intersection 13-May-08 East Lismore Beaumont Dr Diseased Advice only M 14-May-08 East Lismore Beaumont Dr Diseased In Care M 14-May-08 East Lismore Beaumont Dr Diseased Released M 14-May-08 Tucki Hops Rd Trauma In Care F 15-May-08 East Lismore 152 Skyline Rd Diseased Euthanased F 19-Jul-08 East Lismore Dally St Healthy Advice only M 26-Jul-08 East Lismore 152 Skyline Rd Diseased Died M 29-Jul-08 East Lismore 459 Skyline Rd Unknown DOA M 33
31-Jul-08 East Lismore 51 Wanda Drive Unknown DOA M 04-Aug-08 East Lismore Dept. Commerce Healthy Advice only M 14-Aug-08 East Lismore Cnr Floral & Baraham St Healthy Advice only 15-Aug-08 East Lismore 141 Dalley St Healthy Advice only 17-Aug-08 East Lismore Military Rd Healthy Advice only M 20-Aug-08 East Lismore SCU campus Z block Healthy Advice only M 05-Sep-08 East Lismore 90 Oakleigh Ave Healthy Advice only 18-Sep-08 East Lismore SCU Campus, School of Healthy Advice only Nursing 06-Oct-08 East Lismore Rifle Range Rd Healthy Released 01-Nov-08 East Lismore Skyline Rd Diseased Euthanased M 06-Nov-08 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Dr Jarjum Pre Healthy Advice only school 08-Nov-08 East Lismore 70 Wanda Dr Diseased Advice only 10-Nov-08 East Lismore 22 Clarice St Healthy Advice only F 30-Dec-08 East Lismore 34 Beaumont Drv Diseased Advice only F 07-Jan-09 East Lismore 16 Robinson Rd Diseased Euthanased F 15-Jan-09 East Lismore Rifle Range Rd Healthy Advice only 03-Feb-09 East Lismore 6 City View Dr Healthy Advice only 06-Mar-09 East Lismore Rifle Range Rd HBC Advice only 09-Mar-09 East Lismore Barham St Golf Course Dead DOA M 17-May-09 East Lismore Cnr Somerville & Nielson St Healthy Released F 25-May-09 East Lismore Old Cemetry Diseased DOA F 19-Sep-09 East Lismore Cnr Wyrallah Rd & Barham St Healthy Advice only F 23-Sep-09 East Lismore 11 Garden St Healthy Advice only F & back young 05-Oct-09 East Lismore 47 College Road Advice only Female & joey 22-Oct-09 East Lismore Skyline Rd Healthy Advice only F 22-Oct-09 East Lismore 4 Rifle Range Rd Healthy Advice only F 10-Dec-09 East Lismore Lismore High School Grounds Diseased Euthanased F 18-May-10 East Lismore SCU Campus Healthy Advice only Female+P ouch young 31-May-10 East Lismore 50 Wanda Drive Unknown DOA M 22-Jun-10 East Lismore 116 Bright St Healthy Advice only 34
21-Sep-10 East Lismore Lismore H/School, Dalley St. Unknown Dead M 18-Oct-10 East Lismore 99 Wyrallah Rd Healthy Advice only F 04-Nov-10 East Lismore Wyrallah Rd near Waste Unknown could not find F disposal 13-Nov-10 East Lismore 27 Wanda Drive Diseased unable to capture 28-Nov-10 East Lismore 25 Wanda Drive Diseased In care F 08-Dec-10 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Drive, near Unknown could not find M McKees Eng 18-Dec-10 East Lismore Cnr. City View Drive & Diseased/Injured Euthanased F Wyrallah Rd 02-Jan-11 East Lismore 14 Beaumont Drive Diseased Advice only 19-Jan-11 East Lismore 10 Beaumont St Diseased Released M 27-Mar-11 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Drive Diseased Euthanased F 18-Apr-11 East Lismore SCU Campus-behind Law HBC advice only M Bldg. 21-Apr-11 East Lismore SCU above library Healthy Advice only 24-Apr-11 East Lismore 10 Martin Drive Healthy Advice only 02-May-11 East Lismore SCU Campus - above plaza Healthy Advice only M 06-May-11 East Lismore SCU Campus Healthy Advice only F 06-May-11 East Lismore SCU Campus Healthy Released F 10-May-11 East Lismore 45 Barham St Diseased Euthanased F 17-Jun-11 East Lismore Health Clinic-SCU Campus Healthy Released F 06-Jul-11 East Lismore Waste Disp.Depot,Wyrallah Rd Diseased Euthanased F 06-Jul-11 East Lismore Dalley St/Military Rd Healthy Advice only 06-Jul-11 East Lismore 118 Oakley Ave Healthy Advice only M 27-Jul-11 East Lismore SCU Campus Diseased Advice only 02-Aug-11 East Lismore 92 Walker St Healthy Advice only M 11-Aug-11 East Lismore Cynthia Wilson Dr.near storage Healthy Advice only sheds 11-Aug-11 East Lismore 70 Oakley Ave Healthy Advice only 16-Aug-11 East Lismore 112 Wyrallah Rd Dog attack Euthanased M 30-Aug-11 East Lismore 230 Wyrallah Rd Healthy Advice only M 13-Sep-11 East Lismore Wyrallah Rd near T/O waste Dog attack Released M Disp. Depot 23-Sep-11 East Lismore Military Barracks, Military Rd Healthy Released F 28-Sep-11 East Lismore 2 Skyline Rd South Diseased Euthanased F 35
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