Georges River Estuary Handbook A User Guide
A Project of the Lower Georges River Sustainability Initiative 1
Preface The Georges River Estuary Handbook is a resource targeted primarily at recreational boaters, fishers and others who visit, work and live on the river; indeed for all catchment residents. Over the last 3 years the Georges River Combined Councils Committee has lead a collaborative planning process between councils and community to develop an overarching plan for the future management of the estuary. The Georges River Coastal Zone Management Plan, discussed within this handbook, has been developed by Bankstown, Fairfield, Hurstville, Kogarah, Liverpool, Rockdale and Sutherland Councils, the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage and other State government agencies with significant input from the community. The plan has studied the environmental processes at play, identified threats to the healthy functioning of the estuary, and identified management actions that can be enacted by councils and agencies in partnership with the community to secure the long term health of the estuary. Funding for the handbook was received from the NSW Government’s Environmental Trust program which shares our goal of positive collaboration and understanding between government and communities to protect the Georges River’s health and vibrancy. We hope that the community and local businesses will find the handbook helpful in understanding the ecological features of the Georges River estuary. We also hope it encourages people to enjoy and appreciate its many values. Cr Julie Bourke Chairperson, Georges River Combined Councils' Committee
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Georges River Estuary Handbook
"Misty Morning" near Georges River National Park Photo by Bruce Gimber
This Handbook is a Partnership Project by the Lower Georges River Sustainability Initiative with Funding from the NSW Environmental Trust
On the cover: Cave of the Storyteller, the Gunyayuoli; a place of learning - located somewhere in the Georges River catchment. llustration above: the Gymea Lily. All illustrations by Lorraine Robertson.
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All rights reserved. Except under the conditions described in the Australian Copyright Act 1968 and subsequent amendments, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, duplicating or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner. DISCLAIMER The NSW Environmental Trust, Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee, Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority, Hurstville City Council, Kogarah City Council, Rockdale City Council or Sutherland Shire Council will not accept any responsibility for losses, damages, costs and other consequences resulting directly or indirectly from using this handbook and any information or material available from it. First printed June 2012. Available from: Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee c/- Hurstville City Council
[email protected] Compiled, designed and edited by David Kuhn. Special contributions from Frances Bodkin and Stan Konstantaras. Conceived and edited by Col Freeman. Cover illustration by Lorraine Robertson. Inside cover photo by Mary Bailey. Photo opposite by Tina Ebejer. Printed on 100% recycled paper. Printed in Australia by Fuji Xerox Global Services Australia, Rockdale NSW. In conjunction with: NSW Environmental Trust through the Urban Sustainability Program; the Lower Georges River Sustainability Initiative (a partnership between Hurstville City, Kogarah City, Rockdale City and Sutherland Shire councils, the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority and the Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee); NSW Department of Primary Industries - Fisheries; Maritime; Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority; Underwater Sydney; OceanWatch; Recreational Fishing Alliance.
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Contents Features of the Estuary Geomorphology Kia'mia: The Gymea Lily Flushing & Exchange Water Quality Urbanisation
8 10 16 18 20
Plant Communities of an Estuary Towra Point Coastal Saltmarsh Mangroves Seagrass
22 24 26 28
Wildlife of the Estuary Fish Habitat & Recreational Fishing Fish Movement Seasonal Changes Seabirds Oysters Macroinvertebrates
30 32 34 36 40 42
Living and Playing On the River River Facilities Water Sensitive Homes Recreational Fishing Boating on the Georges River
44 46 48 52
River Partners River Initiatives Local Groups & Contacts Reflection
54 60 62
5
R
140 - 160
120 - 140
100 - 120
80 - 100
60 - 80
40 - 60
20 - 40
0 - 20
-4 - 0
440 - 460
420 - 440
400 - 420
380 - 400
360 - 380
340 - 360
320 - 340
300 - 320
280 - 300
160 - 180
200 - 220
Botany Bay Subcatchments
180 - 200
220 - 240
Elevation
240 - 260
Water bodies
Elevation (Metres)
260 - 280
Drainage
HOLSWORTHY
Main Roads
Legend
GLEBURN
ATIONAL PARK
PORT HACKING
ILLAWONG
SUTHERLAND
KURNELL
BOTANY BAY
CRONULLA
SANS SOUCI
HURSTVILLE
BOTANY
CANTERBURY THE GEORGES RIVER ESTUARY, SYDNEY NSW BANKSTOWN
HEATHCOTE
LIVERPOOL WEIR
KURNELL
LIVERPOOL
BOTANY BAY
FAIRFIELD
RANDWICK
BOTANY
CRONULLA
STVILLE
RI VE
CANTERBURY
KS
6
RAN
The Georges River is often characterised by a mixture of subtle natural curves and urban edges. Tom Ugly's Bridge, photo by Rhett Coleman
Introduction
The purpose of this handbook is to provide residents and visitors to the Georges River estuary with some understanding of its natural features. Hopefully this understanding will enhance your experience of the estuary and aid in protection of the estuary's many values in the long term. The estuary is that part of the river system which has a salt water and tidal influence. In the Georges River, this influence extends to a weir in the vicinity of Liverpool. Take this handbook with you as you venture around the Georges River estuary. Use it as a guide to the natural features you may be observing and as a reminder of actions that you can take (or not take) to protect those features while you enjoy the waterway and its features.
"Oatley Baths Walk" Photo by Chris Ebejer
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Geomorphology
Sandstone is a predominant sedimentary landform which characterises the Georges River catchment.
What is Geomorphology?
Geomorphology refers to the shape (morphology) of the earth’s surface (geo). Geomorphologists identify the shape of the earth’s surface to be the result of the forces of geology, biology and water acting over thousands and millions of years.
What forces shaped the Georges River Estuary?
The Georges River estuary is a drowned river valley, and Botany Bay is the submerged delta of an older river system. The now submerged river system can be seen in the map of Botany Bay (opposite page). With the last sea level rise (beginning about 16,000 years ago) the waves and tidal currents created a sand bar across the Georges River entrance creating a lagoon similar to what we observe at Narrabeen. This process continued as the sea level rose and as more sand was transferred from offshore. It was accompanied by frequent breaks through sand barriers due to the rising waters of the lagoon. The process changed about 9,000 years ago when the sea level reached 20 metres below the present level, and the waters of the lagoon spilled over the rocky watershed at Inscription Point (Sydney Airport). The pressure on the sand bar across the Georges River ceased to be effective and the still-growing sand bar assumed its present shape as the Kurnell sand dunes and the present shape of Botany Bay. Sediments from the catchment have been funneled into the old river valley, leaving the valley to the north (the present entrance) with less sediment input, thus maintaining the current water flow. 8
With thanks to Prof. Alberto Albani
BOTANY BAY
151¼ 10'
20
Kyeemagh
20 20
20
50
40
30
20
50
3
30
40
50
40
30
50
30
20
30
40
4
40
60 50
1
20
20 40 50
40 30
40
50
20 30
40 50
60
6
90
60 50 30 40
30
50
40 10 20 30
Osborn Shoal
50 90 70
10 70 10 20 40 30
Kurnell River
8 20
40 20
50 40
Jibbon Pt.
20 10
151¼ 10'
60 50
40
60
60
70
80
2 90
100
110
70 80 90
110
100 110
60
70 70
40
50
50
30
50
30
40
120 30
100 90 80 70 60
100
30
20
10
Bonna River
Hacking River
20
10
Towra River
Osborne River
110
KURNELL
Merries Reef
40 30 20
ancient river course
Georges River
100
Boat Harbour
7 40
Botany River
80
20
70
10
Cooks River
70
10
20
CRONULLA
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
60
20
20
Woolooware
34¼ 50
40
10
10
40
20
30
40 30
30
30
Inscription Pt.
30 70
20
10
5
40 60 50
50
50 60
70
30
30
60 10
60
La Perouse
30
20
30
2
30
40
10
50
80
70 60 50 40
Sans Souci
40
30
60
30
30 40
30
20
20
30
1 km
Taren Pt.
30
20
sandy coastline
6
70
30
rocky coastline
34¼
60
30
1
contours in metres below present sea level 20
50
20
20
30
40
MAROUBRA
10
runway
Bedrock morphology
30
80
90
110
6 100
110
Tasman Sea
N
120
30
The map above shows the current shoreline (in brown) and the shoreline as it was 16,000 years ago (where the yellow meets the blue ocean).
The old river system which included the now submerged Botany, Towra, Bonna and Kurnell Rivers is shown in blue. These old systems are known from the study of geomorphology, and their history is captured in the stories of the Indigenous people whose ancestors witnessed the changes over many generations. At one time, the Cooks and Georges rivers were joined before they met the sea but were separated by the formation of Botany Bay, caused by a tsunami, resulting in the creation of the Kurnell sand dunes. The Kai'mia story (overpage) describes the experience of the indigenous people who lived through these events. 9
Kai’mia Kai’mia :: the the Gymea Gymea Lily Lily
By Frances Bodkin Gawaian Bodkin Andrews This story tells of a long time ago, when the river now known as the Georges River, but then known as Kai’eemah, joined with the Goolay’yari, or Cooks River, and flowed as one through the swamps that once were Botany Bay. Together they then flowed out through the place called Kurunulla, or Cronulla. At that time, the clan living along the river decided that they would make a trip to the lands of the Wirrimbirra to give thanks to the Creator Spirit for giving them such a good place to live. Now the younger members of the clan were not very happy about leaving their homeland to travel for many days along the Kai’eemah into deep gorges and rough land just to give thanks to a Creator Spirit which, they said had done nothing for them. They wanted to stay behind and fish and hunt in the swamps whilst the knowledgeholders made the journey. The knowledgeholders tried to explain to the young ones that it was because of 10
the Creator Spirit that they were able to enjoy the things that they did, but the young ones did not listen. So the knowledgeholders went off alone, with some trepidation, leaving the young ones to either follow or to do as they wished. However, one, a warrior called Kai’mia, decided to stay with the younger ones, to ensure their safety, and to try to talk them into taking the long trip up the Kai’eemah, to fulfill their duties to the Creator Spirit. The knowledgeholders had been gone several days when a great storm came up, and huge waves washed into the Kai’eemah destroying much of the swampland that they used for their food gathering. The waves crashed into the shore so fiercely that they washed over the land. The younger ones persuaded by the Warrior Kai’mia, made their way inland, along the Kai’eemah, but still the giant waves followed them. Finally they reached a place where the waves could not reach them, and they stopped to rest in a small valley high in the Wirrimbirra. The Warrior named Kai’mia told them that they had acted wrongly in refusing to go with the knowledgeholders, and give thanks to the Creator Spirit. “We must follow the old ones.” He told them. “We must give thanks for what we have.” Another young warrior stood up. “It is useless to give thanks for what we have. We have nothing. The waves have taken away what we had.” At that moment there was a great flash of lightning and a great clap of thunder, and the younger ones saw a great cave that would give them shelter from the driving rain. They ran to the cave and huddled there, trying to keep warm. Kai’mia tried to talk to the younger ones, telling them that it would not be far to the Special Place, that since they had travelled this far, they may as well go the rest of the way. But the young ones were reluctant to go out into the storm, and stayed in the shelter of the cave. 11
Suddenly there was a great sound of thunder, worse than ever before, and the ground shook violently. Some of the young ones ran to the front of the cave to be crushed by the falling rock, others ran to the back of the cave only to find themselves trapped in the darkness. Kai’mia was amongst those who had run to the back of the cave, and as his eyes grew used to the darkness he saw a tiny splinter of light coming from deep within the cave. He made his way to it, and looked up to see the grey, stormy sky. He told the others who were crying out, or sobbing to be quiet, and to come and help him climb up to the crack in the roof of the cave. Several of the young warriors stood below the crack and by climbing on to their shoulders he found that he could reach a small overhang, and pull himself up into the crevice. With great difficulty he began making his way up towards the light when once again the earth shook and rocks came tumbling down upon him. One sharp rock broke his arm, and another ripped a great wound in his body. Slowly he dragged himself up into the light, and despite his injuries searched for the trees out of which he could make rope to help his friends climb out, but to no avail. In despair he fell to the ground above the 12
hole, but as he lay bleeding and in great pain on the rock, the earth shook once again, closing up the crack through which he had escaped. Dimly, he could hear the cries of help from his friends below, but alone he could do nothing to help them. Hoping to reach the knowledgeholders Kai’mia made his painful way along the Kai’eemah towards the Special Place, but he was very badly hurt, and fell, many times, until he was too weak to travel any more. He cried out for help, hoping that someone would hear him, but the only answer he received was from the thunder. “Oh Great Spirit!” He cried, “help my brothers and sisters.” Then, the Warrior Kai’mia died. Now near by, sheltering from the storm under a great log were some warriors from the Wirrimbirra. They heard his cry, and came to find his body lying on some white sands. “There must be others.” The warriors of the Wirrimbirra said. “We will follow his tracks.” But they had travelled only a small distance when they found that his tracks had been washed away in the rain. “Look at this!” said one, pointing to a small plant with blood red tips on its leaves. “And there is another.” Wherever the blood of Kai’mia had fallen, a small plant had grown from the sand, and on top of the cave where Kai’mia had first fallen, there was a giant plant like the smaller ones they had followed. And on top of this giant plant was a great flower that looked like a clot of blood held aloft by a great spear. The Wirrimbirra warriors knew then that 13
this was where the young ones were trapped. But try as they might, they were unable to move the great rock and free the young ones trapped below. They were still trying to find a way into the cave beneath when the knowledgeholders, returning from their journey passed by. When they saw the body of Kai’mia, they realised that it was their young ones trapped beneath the great rock. For many days they worked hard trying to dig a way into the cave, but the voices of the young ones grew weaker and fewer until there was silence. Sadly, the knowledgeholders returned to their homeland to find that what they had once known was no longer. Instead of the swamps, there was a great bay, and where the Kai’eemah had met the sea there was high mountains of sand. The two rivers now no longer joined together, but ran into the sea separately. Now, there are stories of how the young ones are still living in the great caves below the ground, seeking a way out, and how the spirit of Kai’mia still searches for them. Now, it is said, that wherever you see the flower of Kai’mia, you know that the spirit of Kai’mia was there, still searching for his brothers and sisters. And some say that the descendants of the Young Ones are still trapped in the caves below, and sometimes you can hear their cries of help in the silence before a storm. 14
And when the knowledgeholders returned to the place where the two rivers once ran into the ocean they performed a ceremony and buried certain objects. And whilst ever those objects remain there, the storms will not take away the Kurunulla. And when you look out across the great waters of the Kai’eemah, you will remember what happens when you show disrespect to the Creator Spirit and allow the Spirit of This Land to weaken. But the Creator Spirit recognised the bravery of Kai’mia, and decreed that the giant plant which grew wherever his spirit had paused to listen for the voices of his brothers and sisters would be forever in memory of his bravery. That is why the nectar of the flowers quenches the thirst of those who are lost. And the stem of the flower provides food for those who hunger. And from the leaves rope can be made that is strong enough to hold the weight of persons who may be trapped amongst fallen rocks.
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Flushing & Exchange The Georges River is split into two different sections by the Liverpool Weir. The section upstream of the weir is freshwater while downstream is saltwater and tidal. The Georges River and its tributaries form a vertically well-mixed estuary with waters in the lower reaches having essentially marine salinities.
What is flushing?
Tidal flushing refers to the increased flow of water from a high tide and the 'flushing' of the river when the tide recedes. The tidal 'prism' is the volume of flushing water between tides. If the tidal prism is high, then it will take with it pollutants and sediments suspended in the water when it recedes. Estuaries with a low tidal prism tend to retain a greater proportion of pollutants for a longer time. In the Georges River estuary, the tidal flushing is such that only 10% of the pollutants in the water that are flushed to the ocean when the high tide recedes are able to re-enter the estuary.
Which areas of the Georges River are well-flushed?
The lower reaches of the Georges River are relatively well-flushed as they are well influenced by the tide. Some creeks like Mill Creek and Deadman’s Creek are almost totally cleared out at low tide. However some areas are subject to a lack of tidal flow; these areas are called ‘dead water areas.’ The upper reaches of the Georges River are much less flushed out and water 16
‘Dead’ Water Areas of the Georges River takes more time to be exchanged, meaning that pollutants stay in the system longer and are either taken up or consolidated. Some reclamation along the Georges River has reduced water in the tidal prism, which affects tidal currents, channel capacities and the amount of water available for flushing industrial, urban and rural pollutants.
Water Levels
During storms, the water levels of the Georges River are elevated above normal tide level and exacerbate foreshore damage to sand bars, reefs and low-lying areas of the foreshore.
DID YOU KNOW? The Georges River has two high tides and two low tides each day which do not have the same amplitude. The mean tidal range is around one metre and the tidal period is around 12.5 hours. The tidal lag between the mouth of the Georges River and Liverpool Weir is about 2.5 hours. Reference: Georges River Estuary Data Compilation & Estuary Processes Study, 2010, prepared by SMEC Australia for GRCCC www.georgesriver.org.au
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Water Quality
Students sample a freshwater section of the Georges River. Photo by Georges River Environmental Education Centre
What is water quality?
Water quality describes and measures the suitability of a particular body of water for a specific use, but it can also indicate relative health of a waterway too. Estuarine systems function through a number of interacting, interdependent and constantly changing processes which largely characterise the river’s behaviour and visual aspect. Declining water quality can lead to impacts on recreational, environmental and economic values of waterways. Changes in water quality are generally caused by catchment runoff, often characterised by elevated nutrients and sediments as a result of changed land use, sewage discharge, poor management practices and uncontrolled dumping.
How is water quality measured?
Water quality is typically measured in a range of physical, chemical and biological indicators. The most common physical indicators are: 99 Turbidity and suspended solids – the concentration of particles (sediment or microscopic aquatic life) in the water. This affects the amount of light that can penetrate the water and therefore the ability for aquatic plants to grow. Turbidity can affect general visibility. 99 Temperature – influences the productivity of the ecosystem 99 pH – the measure of acidity/alkalinity. A level of 7 is neutral. (The pH of saltwater is slightly alkaline at around 8.2.) 18
99 Salinity (or conductivity) – the measure of salt in the water 99 Dissolved Oxygen – the measure of oxygen essential for aquatic animals 99 Nutrients, such as phosphorous and nitrogen – essential for plant growth. High levels may indicate the potential for nuisance algae blooms 99 Chlorphyll-a – the volume of microscopic algae in the water 99 Faecal coliform – bacteria, such as E. Coli, from animal and human waste.
So how is the water quality in the Georges River?
Water quality in the upper and lower Georges River estuary received an overall ‘good’ score according to the Community River Health Monitoring Program. Note: these are biological indicators and do not necessarily reflect on public health indicators for water quality. For more on the Community River Health Program visit www.georgesriver.org.au.
Other programs in place to monitor water quality in the Georges River: The Botany Bay Water Quality Improvement Program was formed to create a network of monitoring stations within the catchment. Visit www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au/bbcci/ Harbourwatch was set up in 1994 and monitors recreational water quality at 59 harbour locations in Sydney, including 15 sites in the lower Georges River and Botany Bay. Visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/beach/ar0708/ harbourwatchprogram.htm Office of Environment and Heritage (formerly DECCW) built a model to identify hot spots of poor water quality and algal blooms within the estuary and identify regions where water quality improvement actions are required. Visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/water/waterqual.htm
Reference: Georges River Estuary Data Compilation & Estuary Processes Study, 2010, prepared by SMEC Australia for GRCCC www.georgesriver.org.au 19
Urbanisation
Photo by Mary Bailey
What is urbanisation?
Urbanisation is the outward expansion of cities to meet the demand for housing as population increases. Since 1950, industrial production has increased over 80% across Australia, resulting in vast amounts of raw materials taken from forests, soil and waterways. With a total area of 960 km2 the Georges River catchment supports nearly 1.2 million people. Land uses within the catchment are mixed, including industrial, agricultural, mining and defence. Nearly 45% of the catchment remains in natural or protected condition, including large portions of the upper river which is used for south Sydney residential water use.
What are the Impacts of Urbanisation on the Georges River?
The urbanisation of the Georges River catchment has fundamentally changed the way water and pollutants flow. The widespread use of pavement, housing, stormwater channels, public transportation, and industrial and other development during the settlement of Sydney has made large areas of the catchment impermeable and water-resistant. Urban activities generate large amounts of nutrients and sediments, especially during construction. Sediment delivered during construction activity can have critical long-term impacts on ecological health. The destruction or removal of foreshore and bushland areas compromises water filtering capacity and sediment stabilisation. 20
Urban stormwater systems very effectively move water from urban areas to waterways. But this means water and pollutants regularly run off the land surface and directly into streams, estuaries and the Bay instead of being filtered through the soil and vegetation. Faster and greater volumes of water pose significant problems to the health of aquatic and foreshore ecosystems. Excess nutrients entering the Bay and its estuaries from catchments can contribute to high levels of algae when nutrients are washed in following rain events. Major algal growth (blooms) can consume all the available nutrients in the water. Algal cells die and are absorbed into the Bay floor. Over time, stored nutrients can sustain further algal blooms between rains.
Urbanisation & Environmental Values
Water in the Georges River is used for recreation, drinking water, cultural activities, and industrial and primary industry use. On balance, surveys (Botany Bay Water Quality Improvement Plan – April 2011, SMCMA) have shown strong community preference for the Georges River Estuary and Botany Bay to be managed to allow primary contact activities such as swimming and other waterway activities to occur, maintaining a high conservation value. GEORGES RIVER LAND USE
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Eastern Curlews in formation near Towra Point, left (photo by Judy Christie). Towra Point Aquatic and Nature Reserve (Google Earth)
Towra Point
What is Towra Point Aquatic Reserve?
Towra Point Aquatic Reserve is located on the southern shore of Botany Bay, which includes the land mass connected to Kurnell Peninsula and the tidal area extending from the southern point of Wooloware Bay to the eastern point of Quibray Bay. Since the Kurnell Peninsula sits in the mouth of the Georges River, industrial, residential and other land uses in the catchment influence the ecological character of Towra Point. The Aquatic Reserve was listed in 1984 as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.* Towra Point Reserve is approximately 1400 ha and is divided into a refuge zone and a sanctuary zone. Today the saltmarshes, mangroves and seagrasses within the reserve are the most extensive in the Sydney region.
DID YOU KNOW? More than 230 species of fish and over 200 migratory bird species have been recorded within the aquatic reserve.
Botany Bay’s ecology was modified from the time settlers first arrived. Oil spills, dredging, shoreline modification, land reclamation, land clearing and sand extraction have all had significant impacts on Towra Point, including loss of habitat and species, and alteration of the natural hydrology. Despite these impacts, Towra Point continues to support a high level of biodiversity. * The Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance are on the World Heritage List under UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.
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What is allowed at Towra Point Aquatic Reserve? Within the reserve’s sanctuary zone, you can observe the marine plants and animals by boat with care. Fishing and collecting of marine plants, shellfish and shells is prohibited. Within the refuge zone, you can take fish by hook and line and use a net that can be lawfully used by a recreational fisher, for example spanner crab nets, hoop or lift nets, hand hauled and dip or scoop nets. No other fishing or collection methods are allowed, including for shellfish, nippers, worms or crustaceans.
Why is Towra Point Aquatic Reserve important?
Aquatic reserves and sanctuaries are established to conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation. They protect important fish habitats and provide for the management and protection of threatened species. Reserves provide valuable areas for research and education about populations and ecological communities. The Towra Point ecosystem contains high biodiversity, hydrological, nutrient cycling, food web and habitat value, and benefits the Georges River catchment by: 99 Providing critical nursery habitat for fish and shellfish 99 Retaining and slowing excess water flows, preventing flooding 99 Filtering and stabilising sand which controls erosion and decelerates pollution contaminants 99 Providing roosting, feeding and nesting sites for migratory bird species
FOR MORE ON TOWRA POINT:
99 Connecting marine communities by transporting detritus, shellfish larvae, water bugs and other organic matter.
* Towra Point Plan of Management www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au * Towra Point - Ecological Character Description www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au * Towra Point Plan of Management www.environment.nsw.gov.au * Kurnell Peninsula: A guide to the plants, animals, ecology & landscapes; Virginia Bear, SMCMA 2010 * Georges River Estuary Data Compilation & Estuary Processes Study, 2010, prepared by SMEC Australia for GRCCC www.georgesriver.org.au 23
Succulent-dominated saltmarsh at Bonna Point, Kurnell
Coastal Saltmarsh What is coastal saltmarsh?
Saltmarsh is a salt-tolerant plant community that lives between high and low tide along river foreshores. Saltmarsh vegetation is a complex mix of sedgelands, grasslands and open herbfields with occasional emergent shrubs, and is the most diverse of the saline wetland classes. (Keith, 2004)
Where does saltmarsh occur?
The presence, absence and distribution of saltmarsh is dependent upon salinity, topography of the area, tidal influence, evaporation and freshwater accumulation. Saltmarshes occur in estuarine mudflats that are exposed to tides, as well as small soaked patches that receive salt spray from onshore winds. In estuaries, they generally occur between the average high water of spring tides and the high water mark of neap tides. Towra Point Nature Reserve is the largest area of saltmarsh in Botany Bay, measuring approximately 145 ha. Towra Point is protected under the NSW National Parks reserve system and listed as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention for migratory bird habitat. Several saltmarsh sites have been regenerated and have been a focus of council flora and foreshore management.
Why is saltmarsh important?
Coastal saltmarsh consists of many unique salt-tolerant plants which play an important role in ecosystem food webs not found in other environments. 24
Saltmarsh provides a breeding and nursery ground for a range of land-based and aquatic fauna such as crabs, insects, molluscs and spiders, as well as for fish, birds and bats. Saltmarsh vegetation also binds and traps sediments aiding in the process of land making (Cappo et. al. 1995), a process which protects coatal areas from the erosive effects of storm events and extreme tides. Saltmarsh acts as an ecological buffer, balancing nutrients and organic matter between saltmarsh and neighbouring communities such as mangroves, seagrass and open water. As much as half the original saltmarsh in NSW has been destroyed by clearing, illegal dumping and landfill for coastal developments. Today, major threats to saltmarsh include: 99 Encroachment from mangroves caused by changes in sediment and nutrient loads 99 Decrease in salinity due to freshwater runoff through stormwater pipes 99 Reclamation of land 99 Invasive plant invasion by salt tolerant plants 99 Pollution (heavy metals and oil spills) 99 Unrestricted access by walkers, bike riders, vehicles etc. 99 Sea level rise.
DID YOU KNOW? Of the total amount of saltmarsh occurring in the Georges River, 93% occurs in parks, reserves or National Parks.
Sedge-dominated saltmarsh at Beauty Point, Georges River National Park
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Mangroves
River Mangrove at Kurnell
What are Mangroves?
Mangroves are a group of trees and shrubs that are capable of growing in marine, estuarine and – to a limited degree – fresh water. They occupy the fringe of intertidal shallows between the land and the sea. The term ‘mangrove’ is used to describe individual trees or shrubs and also the general habitat. As a group of plants, mangroves share several highly specialised adaptations that have allowed them to colonise and thrive in intertidal areas. Mangroves have developed special ways of dealing with concentrations of salt that would normally kill most other plants.
Why are mangroves important?
In the past, mangrove forests were undervalued and considered to be wastelands or breeding grounds for mosquitoes. As a result, many mangrove forests have been cleared, dredged or reclaimed, degraded or otherwise lost. But mangroves serve three very important functions: 99 They provide food; fallen leaves, seeds and organic matter support the food chain 99 They provide habitat; juvenile fish, shellfish, amphibians, birds and insects live in mangroves 99 They act as a buffer, reducing erosion, absorbing flood waters, and maintaining water quality. 26
Reference: NSW DPI Primefacts "Mangroves" May 2008, www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
Where do mangroves occur?
There are at least five mangrove species in NSW, the two most common being the Grey Mangrove and the River Mangrove. The zone where mangroves thrive is determined by tide levels and soil conditions, often parallel to the shoreline. River Mangroves prefer the fringing tidal zone, and grow no larger than 1-3m. Grey Mangroves occur behind the River Mangrove, can grow from 2-12m tall, and are identified by pneumatophores (vertical, above-ground roots).
DID YOU KNOW?
Grey Mangroves are more salt tolerant and found on downstream foreshores. Mangroves are pioneer colonisers in areas of sedimentary deposition in shallow intertidal waters, often colonising small fringe areas. Mangroves upstream of Georges River National Park are thin, patchy stands while downstream sedimentation along foreshores is a prime ecological condition for large, thick stands.
Evidence from major storm and wave events have shown the importance of mangrove forests in reducing storm damage to fragile coastlines and property, such as Cyclone Tracy in Darwin (1974) and the Asian Tsunami (2004).
How you can help to protect mangroves 99 Prevent stock, unleashed animals and humans from accessing mangrove areas 99 Avoid boating in and around mangroves 99 Dispose of rubbish, oils and chemicals away from mangroves 99 Report activities or conditions which threaten mangroves. 27
Seagrass
Strapweed (Posidonia australis) Photo by J. Gilligan
What are seagrasses?
Seagrasses are a unique group of marine plants which have evolved from land plants to live entirely within seawater. Seagrasses live in the soft sediments of sand or mud which occur in sheltered, shallow water areas. Seagrasses, unlike real seaweed, have flowers, fruits and seeds. In low nutrient environments seagrasses have a competitive advantage over seaweeds as they are better able to extract nutrient from the sediments.
Why are seagrasses important?
Seagrasses serve three key functions in estuaries: 99 They provide habitat for fish, especially breeding fish 99 They are a source of food for fish and other aquatic fauna 99 They help to reduce erosion and improve water quality
Where do seagrasses occur?
Most estuaries in NSW have some seagrass beds. They commonly grow in sheltered environments, and since they need sunlight, tend to grow in shallower waters where light is available.
What factors affect seagrasses?
Changes to seagrass beds are related to natural events such as severe wave action, and human activities such as dredging, discharge of nutrients into estuaries, poor boating practices, land clearing and habitat destruction. 28
How You Can Help Protect Seagrasses A few simple ways you can help protect seagrasses when boating are: 99 Avoid anchoring or mooring in seagrass beds. When fishing, anchors can damage the favourite ‘fish café’ – drift if you can or anchor adjacent to seagrass beds 99 Avoid travelling across seagrass beds in boats when the tide is low 99 Avoid changing oil or filling fuel tanks on or near seagrass beds. Use a funnel and avoid spillage. 99 Avoid digging for bait and walking in seagrass beds 99 Maintain boat septic tanks and patch leaks 99 Promptly report sewer overflows.
DID YOU KNOW? There are thought to be less than 70 species of seagrasses worldwide, about half of which are present around Australia’s coastline. Australia has the most diverse seagrass habitat in the world.
Two varieties of seagrass dominate the Georges River estuary. Paddleweed (Halophila ovalis), above right, is the smallest of the seagrasses with leaves 1-5 cm long. Strapweed (Posidonia australis), opposite page and below right, is the largest with leaves up to 60 cm long. Photos by J. Gilligan
References: NSW DPI Primefacts "Seagrasses" September 2007, www.dpi.nsw.gov.au Estuarine Monitoring, Module 7. Waterwatch Australia National Technical Manual
29
DID YOU KNOW? Fishing opportunities within Botany Bay have been improved with the installation of four artificial reefs to create new habitat.
Fish Habitat & Recreational Fishing The waters of Botany Bay and Georges River are only open to recreational forms of fishing and are very popular with anglers.
Why is habitat important to fish?
Habitat supports food sources for fish. For example the variety of food flathead feeds on can be found in seagrass, mangroves, sand and mud. Different types of habitat support the growth of fish during different stages of their life. For example, tarwhine in Botany Bay can shelter amongst seagrass as a small juvenile, forage in sand and mud within the bay as a large juvenile, and move to offshore reefs as an adult where it spawns in inshore waters.
What are the restrictions on recreational fishing?
Fishing regulations are in place to protect and conserve our fish stocks and aquatic habitats to ensure that fishing activities remain sustainable. All fin fish and invertebrates (e.g. crabs, prawns, worms, nippers, cockles, squid) are subject to bag limits and many are also subject to size limits. Recreational anglers are only allowed to use certain gear types and cannot sell their catch. A number of fishing closures exist in Botany Bay and Georges River for public health, safety and to preserve unique aquatic environments. A total fishing closure exists in the Sanctuary Zone of Towra Point Aquatic Reserve. Other area restrictions within these waters limit the use of certain recreational 30
RESOURCES FOR ANGLERS
gear types or the taking of certain species such as shellfish. Areas with these restrictions include: Cooks River, Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone), Woolooware Bay, Kogarah Bay, Sylvania Waters, Woronora River, Salt Pan Creek and the upper Georges River (upstream of Rabaul Road). Information on all area restrictions within these waters can be found in the Sydney South Recreational Fishing Guide available on the NSW DPI website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au * See the NSW Saltwater Recreational Fishing Guide 2012 at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au * Recreational Fishing Alliance www.rfansw.com.au * Safe Fishing www.safefishing.com.au * NSW Fishing Clubs Association www.nswfca.com.au * NSW Council of Freshwater Anglers www.freshwateranglers.com.au * Australian National Sportfishing Assoc. (NSW) www.ansansw.com.au
How you can be a responsible angler 99 Observe all bag and size limits as well as any other restrictions in the area you are fishing 99 Carefully release all undersize or unwanted fish and take only what is sufficient for your immediate needs 99 Take home any rubbish from the fishing spot, i.e. plastic bags, old line and fishing hooks 99 Take home any leftover bait or fish discards and ensure you clean away any residue 99 Obtain a license if under 16 99 Use environmentally friendly fishing tackle where possible 99 Report illegal fishing activity or harm of fish habitat like seagrass, mangroves and saltmarsh to 1800 043 536 99 Join a fishing club. Photo by Mary Bailey
31
DID YOU KNOW? Many fish have discrete ‘home ranges’ where they are consistently located, and are found in these areas even after leaving the estuary and returning at a later date. Towra Point (photo by Judy Christie)
Fish Movement Why is understanding fish movement important?
Understanding fish movement and habitat use is important to minimise the consequences of development within the Georges River system, and to determine the role artificial structures might play in providing fish habitat.
What species have been studied in the Georges River?
The movement of several fish species within the Georges River has been studied. Most notably, movements and habitat use of the iconic species mulloway (or ‘jewfish’) have been studied in detail since 2004, including movements of both wild and stocked fish. Other species have been studied including bream, flathead, luderick (‘blackfish’) and eels.
How is fish movement studied?
Most of the research undertaken within the Georges River has employed a technology called acoustic telemetry. This involves catching the fish and implanting a small transmitter (into the gut cavity) which emits a coded signal that is recorded by automated listening stations present throughout the estuary.
Why do fish move the way they do?
Most movement occurs as fish move from their resting area to their feeding area. Movement patterns usually differ between species, largely due to differences in preferred prey, preferred habitat, spawning cues, and their position in the food web. 32
Flathead barely move at all relative to other species, and spend the majority of their time stationary. Most anglers know flathead prefer bare sediment to other habitats, and this is where they are most often found. Bream are always swimming. While most of their time is spent swimming around the same area, they occasionally undertake large migrations down river. Bream spend a lot of time in the vicinity of mangroves and structures like wharves, pontoons, moorings and pylons which are common in the Georges River. Mulloway display large differences in their movement during daytime and night. Small mulloway (or ‘soapies’) spend most of their time during the day and night in deep holes, and tend not to move much at all. Larger mulloway also reside in the deep holes within the river, but usually move out into shallower water at night to feed. Australian Bass spend most of their juvenile and adult life in freshwater, though migrate to estuaries to spawn. Aquatic plant beds, reefs and sand bars in the upper estuary are preferred spawning habitat. Migration is triggered by autumn floods or increased in-stream flow. Longfinned Eels migrate to spawning grounds as far away as New Caledonia. Young eels take about one year to migrate to Eastern Australia, then spend several years upstream maturing in fresh water.
Reference: Taylor M., Laffan S., Fielder D., Suthers, I., (2006)"Key habitat and home range of mulloway Argyrosomus japonicus in a south-east Australian estuary: finding the estuarine niche to optimise stocking" Marine Ecology Progress Series
33
Seasonal Seasonal Changes Changes Photo by Mary Bailey
Excerpts From "D'harawal: Seasons and Climatic Cycles" By Frances Bodkin
The Season of Ngoonungi – Murrai’yunggory Cool, getting warmer The cold winds have now gone, and the days are starting to get warmer. The Season of the Ngoonungi coincides with September - October of the European calendar. The buds of the Waratah (Telopia speciosissima) swell and redden, and the flying foxes gather in vast numbers over D’harawal Lands as the sun sinks below the horizon and dusk falls. Gentle rains fall during this time, and the flowers bloom heavy with nectar. It is a time for ceremony, and the clans gather to celebrate a time of plenty.
Waratah (Telopia speciosissima) Photo by Alan Fairley
This is also the time when the restrictions on eating shellfish, prawns, crabs, yabbies and the lobsters are lifted, and feasting on the beaches and river banks occurs. The shells of the mussels, pipis and other mollusks are carefully preserved by placing them in middens, above the high-tide line. The ash of the shells was used as a base for sealants, and finely crushed shells were mixed with a liquid and given to children as a medicine.
34
The season of Parra’dowee – Gooray’murrai Warm and wet
Coast Myall (Acacia binervata) blooms. Photo by Alan Fairley
This is the time when it is unwise to camp near rivers; the weather is getting hotter and storms with the heavy rain more frequent. The golden yellow flowers of the Kai’arrewan or Coast Myall (Acacia binervata) indicate the beginning of the season, giving plenty of warning of the storms to come. In massive numbers the freshwater eels begin their long journey down the rivers and creeks and out to sea where they will mate and die. The Time of the Eel signifies the time to prepare for he very hot weather which will, within the next two moons, scorch the land and the people.
During this time, also, the fish will be running in the rivers, and on moonless nights the tidal rivers will echo with the delighted cries of the People as they catch the delicious prawns which inhabit the shallows.
The Season of Burran – Gadalung Marool Hot and dry
This time of year, which relates roughly to January-February of the European calendar, is signified by the blooming of the Weetjellan or Hickory Wattle (Acacia implexa) and indicates that the people were forbidden to eat meat or fish during this time. The staple diet during the Time of the Kangaroo was fruit, seeds, and the roots and tubers of those plants which had finished flowering. It was usually the hottest time of the year, and a time when the people did not wander far from their water source.
Hickory Wattle (Acacia implexa) blooms. Photo by Alan Fairley
Cooking fires were avoided wherever possible during this time of year, and when they had to be lit the preferable location was in sand and well away from other vegetation. The Time of the Kangaroo was the breeding season for kangaroos and wallabies, thus hunting of these animals was forbidden during this time.
The Season of Marrai’gang – Bana’marrai’yung Wet, becoming cooler This time of year equates roughly to March, April and May of the European year. It is an important time of year when the fruit of the Lilli Pilli (Acmena smithii) ripens and food is plentiful. However, when the fruit begins to fall from the trees 35
it is a sign that it is time to start moving from the highlands and plains down to the coastal areas. It is also the time to start mending cloaks or making new ones in preparation for coming cold weather. The Time of Marrai’gang is also the time to survey the bushland to make it ready for the burning of the country if the Keeper of the Flame, Dharamuoy Lilli Pilli fruits (Acmena smithii) considers it necessary and if the weather and winds Photo by Alan Fairley allow it to be done safely. It is also the season when young male animals can be eaten once the traditional rites have been conducted. During this time the raucous cries of the quoll can be heard throughout the bushland as it seeks its mate.
The Season of Burrugin – Tugarah Tuli Cold, frosty, short days
The flowering of the Burringoa or Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) signifies the coming of the really cold weather and the appearance during the day of the echidna forming long, jostling lines, with a female lead and several males following her in a mad race through the bushland.
Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) Photo by Alan Fairley
36
The appearance of the Burringoa blossoms also indicates that it is a time when the people are not permitted to eat shellfish such as prawns, crabs, yabbies, mussels, pipis, lobsters or periwinkles; but the nectar-laden flowers attract other creatures such as the possums and birds to provide adequate food to survive the cold times.
The Season of Wiritjiribin – Tugarah Gunya’marri Cold and windy During the Tugarah Gunya’marri the days are getting noticeably longer, but the weather is still cold. Then, with the blooming of the Marrai’uo or Gossamer Wattle (Acacia floribunda) comes the cold, southwesterly winds; the children become cranky and the adults become badtempered. It is not a good time of year for anyone.
Gossamer Wattle (Acacia floribunda) Photo by Alan Fairley
Green Wattle blooms (Acacia decurrens) Photo by Alan Fairley
However, the calls of Wiritjirbin, the lyrebird, ring through the bushland as he builds his dancing mound and announces his readiness to all potential mates. Soon the winds die down and the beautiful Boo’kerrikin or Green Wattle (Acacia decurrens) blooms, lighting the dull bushland with its glorious golden flowers and the heavy perfume. It is a time for preparing for new ceremonies that will take place within the next moon, the celebration of the new beginning, the new awakening. But Tugarah Gunya’marri is also the time that Boo’gul, the tiny marsupial mice, are the most active. It is their time to breed and the time for the males to die. They run madly around their home grounds, chasing the females and mating until they collapse from exhaustion and die.
D'harawal: Seasons and Climatic Cycles is a compilation based upon interviews and writings from Traditional Knowledgeholders. The book can be ordered by writing to
[email protected] Illustrations by Lorraine Robertson.
37
Seabirds
Herons roosting at Woronora Riverside, left (photo by M. Bailey). Eastern Curlews in Wooloware Bay (photo by Virginia Bear).
Migratory seabirds
Seabirds are the most conspicuous life form inhabiting estuaries. Seabirds are defined as any species of bird which spends a substantial part of its life foraging and breeding in the marine environment. The Georges River estuary is a temporary stop to dozens of bird species who embark on the great East Asian-Australiasian flyway, which includes breeding and foraging grounds in Siberia, North China, Alaska and Japan to Australia. Seabirds such as dusky moorhens, striated herons, little terns, white-faced herons and cormorant species rely on staging points to ‘refuel’ during migration. Towra Point Nature Reserve plays a role in the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, a treaty between China and Australia to minimise harm to major areas of feeding, nesting, roosting and staging. Towra Point wetlands provide a good variety of saltwater and freshwater habitats such as seagrass, mudflats, saltmarsh, mangrove, freshwater wetlands and sandbars. Estuaries provide shallow water habitats beneficial to wading birds. Many wading birds are migratory and listed under international migratory bird agreements. Wading birds eat small fish, crustaceans, worms and molluscs and supply large amounts of nutrients back into the ecosystem. Information on populations of migratory and resident seabirds can determine the importance of an estuary and provide an early warning of population decline. 38
How You Can Protect Seabirds 99 Cast away from birds foraging near where you are fishing 99 Avoid using unattended lines 99 Collect and discard fishing line, gear or rubbish Roosting and feeding is popular at derelict oyster leases at Towra Point (Judy Christie).
99 Take home and dispose of tangled tackle by cutting into small pieces 99 Tread lightly – don’t leave anything behind! 99 Join or donate to Australian Seabird Rescue If You Hook A Bird: 99 Don’t panic, stay calm 99 Don’t cut the line
Pelican at sunset in Botany Bay (M. Bailey).
99 Gently reel the bird in. Even pelicans can be slowly hauled ashore and are generally calm birds 99 Place a towel or shirt over the bird’s head and eyes. Then carefully try to remove the hook or line. 99 Do not release the bird if the hook has been swallowed or is embedded too deeply too be removed easily.
IF YOU SEE INJURED WILDLIFE:
* Australian Seabird Rescue 0428 862 852 or
[email protected] * Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service on 1800 094 737 * NPWS 131 555 for injured whales, dolphins and seals * Contact your local wildlife rescue group for injured native animals
FOR MORE ON SEABIRDS:
Pied Oystercatchers at Towra Point (Sydney Metropolitan CMA).
References: Australian Seabird Rescue www.seabirdrescue.org Georges River Estuary Data Compilation & Estuary Processes Study, 2010, prepared by SMEC Australia for GRCCC www. georgesriver.org.au
* Birds Australia: www.birdsaustralia.com.au * Australian Seabird Rescue www.seabirdrescue.org * The New Atlas of Australia's Birds (2002), Blakers M, Davies S, & Reilly P, Melbourne University Press 39
Oysters
In the 1970s, oyster catch in the Georges River totalled about 30% of total production for NSW. (DPI)
What does oyster health mean for the Georges River? Oysters are considered a gourmet delight and are a primary aquaculture industry in NSW. With a current annual production of over 63 million oysters worth over $38 million, oyster farming has been the most valuable aquaculture industry in New South Wales for over 100 years. The health of an oyster is closely related to the quality of the water in which it grows. This makes water pollution the number one issue facing the industry. As such, oysters are a valuable environmental indicator, sometimes referred to as the ‘Canary of the Estuary’. Monitoring wild and cultivated oysters can reveal environmental damage before it is otherwise apparent. As oysters are filter feeders, a thriving oyster population can enhance environmental conditions by helping to remove contaminants and other suspended material from the estuary. A well managed oyster farm is therefore a vital business that supplies healthy and sustainable seafood to eager oyster lovers. Oyster leases also provide valuable sheltered habitats for juvenile fish populations. Since the 1860s oysters have been harvested from Georges River and Botany Bay. Prior to 1995, farming Sydney rock oysters on the Georges River was an extremely successful venture, employing over fifty local farmers. However, in 1995 a mysterious parasite called Qx put the brakes on production. Since that point, work began to breed a new variety of Qx resistant Sydney rock oyster and permission has been granted for the farmers to grow the introduced Pacific 40
oyster. Two businesses now operate out of Woolooware Bay. It is hoped that in the future more people will enter the oyster industry, and take up oyster leases in Botany Bay and the Georges River that are currently dormant.
DID YOU KNOW? In NSW there are three main species of oyster grown. They are: the Sydney Rock Oyster, the Pacific Oyster and the Native Flat Oyster.
Above, an oyster farmer shaves the foam off to display the oysters in growing tanks. Oysters are being raised in floating trays, right. Below, a local oyster farmer demonstrates the anatomy and proper shucking of Sydney Rock Oysters. Photos by OceanWatch Australia
41
DID YOU KNOW?
Macroinvertebrates
About 99% of animal species on earth are invertebrates.
What are macroinvertebrates?
Macroinvertebrates are animals without a backbone which can be seen without the aid of a microscope or magnifying glass. Aquatic macroinvertebrates or water bugs as they are affectionately known are those that spend all or part of their life cycles in water. Some common types of waterbugs that can found in the Georges River estuary include crabs, prawns, snails, barnacles, oysters, isopods, amphipods and worms.
Why are macroinvertebrates important?
Macroinvertebrates occupy a central position in aquatic food webs; they also perform important roles in keeping estuaries functioning by breaking down organic matter and filtering particles from water. Around the world, water bugs are used to assess the condition of waterways. There are many reasons for this phenomenon (Chessman): 99
Water bugs require particular environmental conditions in order to survive, grow and reproduce. Some types are tolerant of water pollution while others are sensitive, so ecologists can tell a lot about environmental conditions based on diversity and abundance of water bugs present.
99 Sedentary macroinvertebrates, such as mussels, require consistent and long-standing environmental conditions to survive. If severe pollution flows through a site, it may be months before populations can re-emerge. 99 By studying macroinvertebrates, ecologists can tell a lot about past environmental conditions as well as present. 99 Invertebrates are found in almost every body of water, even creeks and ponds that dry seasonally, and are relatively easy to identify. 42
The Georges River Community River Health Monitoring Program conducts environmental sampling at 12 estuarine sites along the river. The study involves macroinvertebrate collection and identification, water quality testing and vegetation condition. Report Cards illustrating the health of the river can be viewed at www.georgesriver.org.au UPPER GEORGES RIVER REPORT CARD AUTUMN 2011 OVERALL RIVER HEALTH No change to the overall grade for the Georges River catchment was recorded during autumn 2011 monitoring with the ecological condition remaining fair. This result indicates that over the last two years of monitoring the condition of the Georges River catchment has remained stable. Good riparian vegetation and water quality were found across most parts of the upper catchment and portions of the lower catchment, however degraded water quality and macroinvertebrate communities continue to be recorded in the highly urbanised areas. Stormwater and urban and industrial runoff combined with degraded riparian vegetation continue to contribute to degraded water quality which is reflected in the macroinvertebrate communities which display lower diversity and are dominated by pollution tolerant species.
MID GEORGES RIVER REPORT CARD AUTUMN 2011
LOWER GEORGES RIVER REPORT CARD AUTUMN 2011
FRESHWATER SITES - 13
FRESHWATER SITES - 11
ESTUARY SITES - 4
FRESHWATER SITES - 7
ESTUARY SITES - 7
OVERALL SUMMARY
OVERALL SUMMARY
OVERALL SUMMARY
OVERALL SUMMARY
OVERALL SUMMARY
The River Health grade of B+ for the upper catchment is consistent with results from previous monitoring period, which indicates that the condition of most of the waterways B+ B+ B+ in the upper catchment is good. S 09 A 10 S 10 Excellent water quality, riparian vegetation and macroinvertebrate populations in Illuka Creek, Cobbong Creek, O’Hares Creek and Upper Georges River contribute to maintaining the health of the ecosystem of the upper catchment, highlighting the importance of the Dharawhal State Conservation Area. Contrary to this, degraded water quality and aquatic biodiversity has consistently been detected in Brennan’s Creek, around the township of Appin and further downstream in the Campbelltown area. These results stem from the combination of industrial discharge and urban run-off entering the river system at various points throughout the upper catchment.
The overall grade for the mid sub catchment was D+ indicating the condition of fresh ecosystems in this subcatment is poor. Reduced macroinvertebrate diversity in the mid Georges River D D D catchment is the result of stormwater, urS 09 A 10 S 10 ban and industrial run-off contributing nutrient enriched, chemically altered waters to natural waterways in the area. In addition, urbanisation has lead to riparian vegetation being significantly altered or completely removed in this part of the catchment adding to the ecological decline of the waterways of the mid Georges River catchment. In contrast, Barden Creek continues to display conditions similar to those found in the clean upper areas of the catchment which is a direct result of the lack of catchment disturbance and intact vegetation.
B+
Georges River at Ingleburn Weir
A+
B
B
A
A+
C+
B-
B
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
B A 10
A
B+
B S 10
C-
B-
B-
A 10
S 10
C
B
A 10
S 10
C-
B S 10
E-
Lower Prospect Creek
B
F
E+
F
Lt. Cantello Reserve
A-
C
D
F-
E-
E
E-
F+
D-
E-
E-
E
E-
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
B+
D-
A- C+
C+
C
C-
S 09
A 10
S 10
Lime Kiln Bay Creek
A+ B+ C+
F+
F-
Myles Dunphy Reserve Creek
C
F-
D+
F-
C
A
No change to the overall grade of estuarine areas in the lower catchment was observed during D+ A E autumn 2011 monitoring with the ecological condition remaining CCCfair. Slight fluctuations in S 09 A 10 S 10 macroinvertebrate communities were observed across monitoring sites, and constant tidal flushing is likely to have maintained reasonable water quality in the lower end of the catchment despite an increase in the volume of stormwater entering the lower estuary due to the wet conditions experienced during autumn 2011.
C-
Myles Dunphy Reserve Estuary
Moore Reserve Wetland *
C-
D
A-
E-
A-
B-
C+
E-
E-
F
C
C-
C+
D+
D
C-
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
B
E-
D+
E+
S 09
A 10
A-
FD-
A+ A+ B-
A
A-
A
S 09
A 10
S 10
D+
D
C
C
S 09
A 10
A
D- E+ A+ C-
C-
A 10
S 10
S 09
Illuka Creek
A+ B+ A+
A
Maddens Creek
A+ A- B+
A+
A+ B+ A+ A+
A+
A 10
S 10
Cobbong Creek
A+ A+ A+
A+
A+
E-
A+
A
A+
A-
A-
A-
A+
A+
A
A+
A+
A+
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
Map cannot be used for land use interpretation
F
F-
S 09
A 10
C
A+
**
B-
S 09
A 10
A B-
F
S 10
C+
F-
E-
E+
A 10
S 10
Salt Pan Creek
E+
C
S 10
C-
F-
E
A+ B-
D
E
B
E+
C
D+
C+
S 09
A 10
S 10
Barden Creek
A
Mill Creek
A
A+ A-
A
C+
C
A 10
S 10
D+ B-
F-
C
E+
C+
S 09
A 10
S 10
C+
D+
A+ A+ DC-
C-
A 10
S 10
DS 09
Woronora River
A A+
A+
S 09
A 10
F- A+ DD+
E
A 10
S 10
Scott Park Saltmarsh
D+
B+ A+ A+ A+ S 10
S 09
Heathcote Creek
A+
Mill Creek Estuary
B+ A+ A+
Poulton Park Creek
D+ A+ FE+
E
A 10
S 10
F
DS 09
D-
F+ S 10
A+ C-
B+ S 09
A-
E S 09
Morgan’s Creek Estuary
F-
Lower Cabramatta Creek
A
D+ B+
C
E A-
Upper Cabramatta Creek
F
Lime Kiln Bay Estuary
Morgan’s Creek
S 10
Hinchinbrook Creek
Stokes Creek
A
Upper Georges River
A
D-
C
D+ C- A+
BS 09
Brennans Creek
C+
Upper Prospect Creek
B+
S 09
D-
C
B A 10
A
Georges River Downstream of Brennans Creek
S 09
B+ A+
BS 09
O’Hares Creek at The Woolwash
B
BS 09
C+
F
The overall grade for the lower sub catchment was C which indicates that the condition of freshwater ecosystems in this subcatment is fair. Waterways within the highly urbanised parts of the lower catchment displayed elevated nutrient levels, altered chemical properties and severely degraded riparian vegetation. These factors in combination with altered stream flows and habitat modification, due to urbanisation, were reflected in the sampling results which found macroinvertebrate communities low in diversity and lacking in sensitive species. In contrast, Heathcote Creek and Woronora River remain in good ecological condition; similar to sites found in the clean upper areas of the catchment due to minimal urbanisation within each of these sub catchments.
A slight yet non-significant change in the grade of estuarine areas in the mid catchment was recorded during autumn 2011 BC+ C monitoring, however the S 09 A 10 S 10 ecological condition remains fair. Macroinvertebrate biodiversity throughout this part of the catchment remained stable, although water quality was slightly lower than previously recorded with low dissolved oxygen and elevated turbidity levels recorded across a number of sites. It is likely that the wet conditions experienced during autumn 2011 resulted in nutrient enriched, turbid stormwater and urban and industrial run-off entering the estuary, causing the decline in water quality observed.
C
Lower Orphan School Creek
Georges River at Simmos Beach
Georges River at Appin
B
F- B+
E
Yeramba Lagoon * *
B+ C+ B+
B+
E
C
A+ A 10
S 09
E+ A-
Upper Orphan School Creek
Georges River at Cambridge Ave
A+ A+ A+
A+ S 09
Georges River at The Woolwash
B
D+
A- B+ A-
A S 09
A
Poulton Park Estuary
A
A+
A 10
S 10
Bonnet Bay
F- A+ A+
B+
C
A+ A+
Carina Creek
C+ A+ C+
D+
Carina Creek Estuary
D- A+ F-
C-
C
B
A-
A
A+
A+
B
A
A+
A-
B-
A-
B+
A-
E+
E+
D-
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
D+
C-
D+ A+ E+
D+
C+
S 09
A 10
C+ S 10
Moore Reserve Estuary
B- F+
E-
F-
A-
F-
C-
D-
D
D
D+
E+
S 09
A 10
S 10
S 09
A 10
S 10
* This site has been specifically designed to capture and treat stormwater
Although functioning as a wetland for many years, Yeramba Lagoon has been assessed as a highly modified creek.
The Community River Health Monitoring Program Report Card shows a snapshot of the health of the Georges River catchment. The program uses three river health indicators: water quality, riparian vegetation and macroinvertebrates, and gives a 'grade' indicating each site's overall health.
Freshwater macroinvertebrate sampling
RESOURCES FOR WATERBUGS
The Community River Health Monitoring Program and the Streamwatch Program utilise community volunteers to collect macroinvertebrate samples in the Georges River. In freshwater areas, volunteers sample riffles, overhanging vegetation, under boulders, instream vegetation and alcoves.
Macroinvertebrates are then sorted according to diversity and abundance using ice cube trays and assorted tools. Using a score sheet, the health of the site's environmental condition is then assessed.
* Chessman, B (2003) SIGNAL 2.iv - A Scoring System for Macroinvertebrates in Australian Waters, National River Health Program, NSW Department of Environment and Heritage * Georges River Environmental Education Centre www.georgesrivereec.com.au * Community River Health Monitoring Program www.georgesriver.org.au
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Boat ramp and dock at Georges River National Park. Photo by Claire Evans
River Facilities The Georges River is navigable to vessels for approximately 30 kilometres from Botany Bay east to the Liverpool weir upstream of Chipping Norton Lakes. In the lower reaches two main crossings restrict the height of vessels able to navigate: Captain Cook Bridge has a clearance of 16.6 metres and Tom Ugly’s Bridge has a clearance of 5.7 metres. Further upstream the Como rail bridge has a clearance of 7.0 metres. Several tributaries flow into the Georges River, but only the Woronora River and Salt Pan Creek could be considered navigable by vessels other than kayaks, canoes and the like. There are 15 public boat ramps along the Georges River and three on the Woronora River which give access to open waters. There are also several commercial marinas and private mooring facilities for the storage of vessels as well as a range of boating and sailing clubs for yachts, dinghies and powerboat racing along the foreshores. Popular boating activities include kayaking/canoeing, sailing, fishing, skiing and wakeboarding and using personal watercraft such as jet-skis. NSW Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) is the lead agency responsible for safe navigation on New South Wales waterways and maintains navigation aids along the Georges River. The RMS also provides funding to support boating infrastructure projects in the form of grants to councils and community groups for public boating facilities through the Better Boating Program. 44
DID YOU KNOW?
For complete boating and navigation maps, visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au. Formed Surface Launching Ramps
Public Wharf or Jetty
Bonna Point, Kurnell T P Gwawley Bay, Taren Point Sandy Point, Sylvania Waters Horse Rock Point, Tom Ugly's Bridge and Sylvania Marinas T P Connell Road, Oyster Bay Moore Reserve, Oatley T P Connells Point Sailing Club, Connells Bay T Kogarah Bay Sailing Club T P Claydon Reserve, Ramsgate T P St George Rowing Club, Como Pleasure Grounds T Clarendon Road, Salt Pan Creek, Padstow Georges River National Park T P Picnic Point T Sandy Point Washington Drive, Bonnet Bay P Burnum Burnum Sanctuary, Woronora River P Woronora Bridge, Woronora River Prince Edward Park, Woronora River Deepwater Motor Boat Club, Milperra Davy Robinson Reserve, Chipping Norton T P Rabaul Road, Georges Hall T P Floyd Bay, Chipping Norton Lake P Eora Beach, Chipping Norton Lake Angle Park, Chipping Norton Lake T P
Rocky Point, Sans Souci Botany Bay Yacht Club, Kogarah Bay Bonney Street, Kogarah Bay Kogarah Bay Sailing Club T P Connells Point Sailing Club, Connells Pt T Moore Park, Oatley T P Jew Fish Bay, Oatley Park T Georges River National Park T P Lambeth Reserve T Prince Edward Park Rd, Woronora Heights River View Rd, Pleasure Point Davy Robinson Reserve, Chipping Norton T P Rabaul Road, Georges Hall T P Garrison Point, Chipping Norton Lake T Eora Beach, Chipping Norton Lake Angle Park, Chipping Norton Lake T P Homestead Park, Chipping Norton Lake T
P T
Fuel Available within 1 km Public Parking Public Toilets. Other locations: Ramsgate Beach Clareville Avenue, Sans Souci Georges River 16ft Sailing Club Carss Park Baths
Marina, Boatshed or Boat Hire Blakehurst Marina St George Motor Boat Club Botany Bay Yacht Club, Kogarah Bay Tom Ugly's Bridge, Sylvania T P Lugarno Marina Star Boatshed Canoe Hire, Woronora Como Marina T Picnic Point T
Old Ferry Road, Wearne Bay, Illawong Monash Park, East Hills East Hills Park
Mirrambeena Reserve Haigh Park, Lake Moore
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Sample design for an infiltration raingarden. Created by Paoli Smith for Melbourne Water
Water Sensitive Homes What is a Water Sensitive Home?
On a rainy day, rain falling onto a houseblock or runoff from garden areas will flow to the nearest underground drain and quickly to the nearest creek, carrying with it pollutants from garden fertilisers, litter, construction sites, green waste and cars. The amount of pollution that is actually generated from a single house and garden is not high, but collectively our entire neighbourhood hurts local waterway health. A water sensitive home is one which is designed and used to minimise harmful impacts on the natural water cycle. By collecting, treating and re-using stormwater on your property, a stormwater sensitive home helps to: 99 Delay and reduce the volume of stormwater discharge to streams 99 Improve water quality in groundwater 99 Use water resources more efficiently 99 Protect stream and foreshore habitats from erosion, saturation or flooding 99 Protect the scenic and recreational values of streams. There is enormous scope for creativity when designing or rebuilding a home, so that it incorporates a variety of stormwater sensitive treatments. These treatments are called Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). 46
What is Water Sensitive Urban Design?
WSUD treatments can include rainwater tanks, raingardens, site layout and landscaping, or porous pavements instead of concrete paving.
Rainwater or grey water tanks
Can be plumbed to toilets, roof rain gutters, kitchen sink, water efficient appliances and gardens. Water reuse systems can be used for diversion or for treatment.
Raingardens
A gravel filled trench designed to receive stormwater directly from a downpipe or runoff from surrounding hard surfaces. It features layers of alternate gravel and soil for drainage, and plants that can tolerate both extreme wet and dry conditions.
Site Layout & Landscaping
Choice of stormwater treatment measures will require complete understanding of your property’s characteristics, including: topography, expected rainfall and flows, drainage patterns, soil composition, vegetation and sun/shade patterns.
Porous Paving
RESOURCES FOR WSUD
Reduce load and flow of stormwater by using porous paving, which allows water to soak through the surface and infiltrate to subsoil. Cost, range and lifespan of porous paving is similar to other pavements. * SMCMA WSUD Program in Sydney www.wsud.org * Save Water www.safewater.com.au * Sydney Water, Every Drop Counts Program www.sydneywater.com.au/Water4Life * Centre for Water Sensitive Cities www.watersensitivecities.org.au * Melbourne Water www.raingardens.melbournewater.com.au/library
Designs for a self-watering planterbox receiving stormwater directly from a downpipe. It features layers of soil for filtration, gravel for drainage, and plants that can tolerate both extreme wet and dry conditions. Planterboxes are most effective with sandy soils. Created by Paoli Smith for Melbourne Water.
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Overlooking Brighton Beach. Photo by Mary Bailey
Recreational Fishing
By Stan Konstantaras
Mid-Georges River: Liverpool to Como
With its many bends, secluded bays and shallow creeks, the upper reaches of the Georges River make a perfect venue for both boat and shore-based fishing enthusiasts. The Georges River up to the Liverpool fish ladder offers a great variety of species, including big silver bream, mulloway, flathead, luderick, tailor, mullet, trevally, whiting, and even bass and estuary perch. In the summer months the water temperature warms to a very comfortable 19 degrees – perfect for bream and flathead to hunt for prawns, small bait fish and crustaceans. Rock walls, shallow banks, weed-beds, deep holes, gutters, old oyster leases and pontoon wharf structures, all provide excellent fishing for the many anglers who visit the river every season. Small suspended lures, poppers and soft plastic minnows and worms are very successful for this kind of fishing, a style that’s also very visual and provides plenty of excitement. Shore-based anglers have good access along the river, from parks and small sandy shorelines to walls and wharves. It’s possible to catch bass, bream, estuary perch, mulloway and flathead in the same brackish headwaters, so every cast is a lucky dip. 48
Up near Liverpool, a weir (or ‘fish ladder’) was installed so that bass, which spawn in salt water after living most of the year in fresh water, can join their close cousins, the estuary perch. It is very common to hook some huge bass during the winter months, especially when fishing around the many fallen tress, jetties and sunken cars. Examples of popular fishing spots encountered as you head downstream are Williams Creek, the Mangrove Boardwalk, Lambeth Reserve, Mill Creek, Alfords Point, Salt Pan Creek flats, the Moons (Great and Little), Bonnet Bay and Como.
Lower Georges: Oatley/Sans Souci/Woolooware Bay
Heading downriver from Como towards Botany Bay, you approach a pair of major bridges and a few top fishing spots along the way, such as Oyster Bay, Oatley Point, Kogarah Bay and Gwawley Bay. The Captain Cook and Taren Point bridges are very popular bream and mulloway spots for boat- and shore-based anglers. The bridges’ giant pylons create perfect ambush points for these amazing predators. The areas around the bridges are best fished during the run-out tide, as this creates excellent eddies for the fish to hide in during feeding times. Many huge mulloway have been caught here over recent years, along with good bream and whiting.
Circle-hook caught bream. Circle hooks improve mouth hooking rates and are beneficial for the survival of anglerreleased fish.
From Sans Souci and Taren Point, the Georges River detours briefly before emptying into Botany Bay. This ‘detour’ into Wooloware Bay provides some of the most productive whiting and flathead fishing in the region, with complex tidal flats and narrow gutters.
Towra Point and Doll's Point shores and Woolooware Bay are famous for their recordsize flathead and whiting during the summer. Bream are also top fair among the retired oyster leases that are spread throughout Woolooware Bay, to the southeast of Taren Point. Extensive seagrass beds in this area provide cover and plenty of food for these fish and thus make it an excellent breeding ground for many fish species. 49
Fishing at night
The river takes on a new character at night when the boat traffic is at a minimum. Anglers may find more wary species like whiting and bream that utilise the shallows at night, or the mighty mulloway who starts nocturnal hunting at sunset, and seasonal migrations of bass or estuary perch. Common Georges River fish, clockwise from top left: dusky flathead,
luderick, whiting, silver bream. Photos by Underwater Sydney Anglers need to be extremely wary and prepared while in or around the water after nightfall.
Flow and other river dynamics change at night, and navigation is reliant upon electronic navigation aids. The river has many tight turns and travelling on the wrong side of a channel marker may see boaters high and dry on a sand flat at low tide.
An Angler's Safety Tips A few simple ways to stay safe when fishing the River: 99 Always check out your intended night-time fishing spots during the day at both high and low tide 99 If fishing from a boat at night, always use the appropriate navigation lights on your vessel. “Stay Bright at Night” 99 Always wear a lifejacket on a boat. If on shore, wear bright clothing and a life jacket if you are a weak swimmer. 99 Do not anchor in navigation channels to fish 99 Always tell someone where you will be fishing and what time you will be coming home 99 Always be cautious when walking on and fishing off rocks at low tides. Stan Konstantaras is President of the South Sydney Amateur Fishing Association and President of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.
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How to maximise fish survival
To maximise a fish's survival when practicing catch and release, it's important to follow a few simple rules: Use methods and rigs that increase frequency of mouth-hooked fish (rather than gut-hooked) Use artifical lures Choose non-offset circle hooks when using bait Minimise the length of time the fish is out of the water Unhook the fish while still in the water and release quickly. Needle- nosed pliers or hook-retrieving devices reduce time spent unhooking. Use fish-friendly landing nets with knotless mesh (knots damage scales) Use barbless hooks or reduced-barb hooks which are easy to remove and minimise hook damage. Alternatively, squeeze down barbs with pliers, or file away. Handle fish firmly and carefully. Avoid dropping fish onto the bottom of boats and other hard surfaces. Use wet hands or gloves when handling fish to minimise skin damage Never hold fish by the gills or the eyes Revive fish upon release by gently pushing water over its gills.
DID YOU KNOW?
Seagrass beds are a primary fish habitat, particularly for juveniles. Take care over these sensitive areas. Photo by Judy Christie
From June 1 to August 31 a zero bag limit of Australian bass and estuary perch caught in the Georges River is in place. Bass travel to the upper freshwater reaches upriver past Liverpool to spawn in brackish waters and should not be targeted during this time of year.
And remember... keep the River clean! 99 Always take your rubbish home with you when you finish fishing. 99 Always check current bag and size limits and limit your catch 99 Be mindful of spawning season migrations and closures; let the fish get on with their business without any outside interference. 51
Whether kayaking, wakeboarding or boating, preserving the environment comes naturally to most boaters. Photo left by Chris Ebejer
Boating on the Georges River
The Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA) and the NSW Maritime Authority are working to provide facilities, services and environmentally friendly practices to preserve, protect and improve the quality of our water and shores. To do less degrades boating's value today and tomorrow; to do our best is an environmental duty to ourselves. ~ Boating Industry Association of NSW
Make a commitment to: 99 Use your best efforts to educate fellow boaters to support the restoration and protection of our marine environment. 99 Maintain and improve water quality for all boat users by complying with all environmental laws and regulations in operation. 99 Observe the regulations of usage of the waterways by Government authorities, marinas and boatsheds. 99 Protect the waterways from senseless and harmful dumping. 99 Be aware of the noise, smoke and odours generated by your vessels. 99 Prevent unacceptable wake and propeller wash, especially in the vicinity of sensitive or erodible shores, marinas and waterway users. 99 Take care where you anchor and avoid seagrass beds. 99 Collect all your rubbish on board and dispose of it properly ashore. 52
Tips for environmentally sound boat maintenance: 99
Make sure your boat and its engines are in good working order - regularly check seals, gaskets, hoses and connections for leaks.
99
Take care when filling your fuel tank to avoid spillage into the water. If you overfill your fuel tank, wipe the spill up with a rag.
99
Install a holding tank or an approved on-board sewage treatment system. Small craft owners could install portable camping toilets.
St George Motor Boat Club, Sans Souci
99 Use low or non-phosphate soaps and limit water use. 99 Keep your bilges clean to prevent pollutants being discharged overboard. Use an absorbent pad in the bilge to clean up oily water and always dispose of the absorbents appropriately. 99 Prevent the spread of exotic aquatic weeds. Remove all plant fragments from trailers, props, anchors, ropes, chains and fishing tackle. Collect pieces in a plastic bag, seal it and put the bag in a bin. 99 When scraping or sanding your boat, use a vacuum sander or place a drop sheet underneath to catch and dispose of paint scrapings and dust. 99 When painting your boat's hull, use an environmentally friendly product and carefully follow the application instructions. 99 Keep motors efficiently tuned, and avoid excessive idling and engine noise while at marinas or in the vicinity of residential property. 99 Prevent in-water hull cleaning or other underwater processes likely to remove anti-fouling or other deleterious material into the water. 99 Do not drain the engine bilge unless bilge water is passed through a filter. 99 Ensure no petroleum product residue is pumped overboard. Use petroleum absorbent material and dispose of it on land.
RESOURCES FOR BOATERS
99 Install fuel-air separators on air vents or tank stems of inboard fuel tanks to reduce the amount of fuel spilled onto the surface water. * Boat Owners' Association of NSW www.boaters.org.au * Boating Industry Association of NSW www.bia.org.au * Marine Industries Association of Australia www.marinas.net.au * Clean Marinas Program www.marinas.net.au/industryprograms/clean-marina-program 53
River & Estuary Initiatives Botany Bay & Catchment Water Quality Improvement Plan The Water Quality Improvement Plan for Botany Bay and its catchment was developed by the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) with funding from the Australian Government through its Caring for Our Country program. The main objective of the Plan is to set targets for pollutant load reductions required to protect the condition of Botany Bay, its estuaries and waterways. The Plan is expected to be a tool for raising awareness and promoting behaviour changes amongst water, resource and asset managers at Local, State and Federal Government agencies, community groups and organisations. The Plan explores ‘best’ and ‘worst’ case scenario options for the catchment, in line with expected population growth and development trends. Over 30 stormwater treatment options using Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) were explored during a comprehensive modeling of the catchment, including the costs and load reductions associated with each treatment option, as well as for riparian rehabilitation. WSUD options were run through a Decision Support System developed specifically to test a range of scenarios and provide an estimate of the impacts of the various WSUD options on nutrient and sediment delivery through 2030. Finally, the plan outlines recommendations for Federal, State and Local Government, Regional groups of councils, community groups or NGOs and private citizens, providing direction on how adoption and implementation can be achieved. To obtain a copy of the plan, visit the SMCMA website at www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au 54
River & Estuary Initiatives Georges River Coastal Zone Management Plan The Georges River Coastal Zone Management Plan (GR CZMP) was developed in collective consultation with the councils in the Georges River estuary, including Bankstown, Fairfield, Hurstville, Kogarah, Liverpool, Rockdale and Sutherland councils. The Plan seeks to draw upon the Georges River Estuary Data Compilation and Processes Study and other research, and develop management aims, objectives, options and actions. The Processes Study is a comprehensive ecological research report identifying and collating key data on the estuary, encompassing the array of physical, ecological, social and economic, and land use planning characteristics. The Study also provides maps on the extent of threats and pressures on: estuarine and riparian vegetation, foreshore erosion, water quality, seawall assessments, existing gross pollutant traps and stormwater outlets in the estuary. Council committee workshops were facilitated to decide and agree upon management aims, objectives, options and actions with the assistance of the Decision Support System tool developed for the Botany Bay Water Quality Improvement Plan. Community consultation workshops were conducted to present key information about the Processes Study and planning process being followed to develop the GR CZMP, and to gauge community concerns and values on management aims, objectives and actions. The nine aims for future management in the GR CZMP include: water quality, aquatic and riparian habitat, recreation and amenity, land use planning and development, bank erosion and sedimentation, foreshore protection, natural and cultural heritage, climate change and sea level rise, monitoring and evaluation. To obtain a copy of the GR CZMP or the Processes Study, visit www.georgesriver.org.au 55
River Initiatives Georges Riverkeeper Program The Georges Riverkeeper program is focused on undertaking on-ground restoration works for member councils along the river which include rubbish and weed removal and bush regeneration and other conservation works as required by member councils. The Riverkeeper Program is an initiative of the Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee (GRCCC) serving the nine member councils who carry a collective responsibility for the health of the Georges River catchment. Riverkeeper Program rubbish collection teams provide broad-scale removal of rubbish from the river’s foreshores, creeks and tributaries. GRCCC member councils identify rubbish ‘hotspots’ on the river for inclusion in the Riverkeeper work plan. Riverkeeper bush regeneration teams are restoring degraded, remnant bushland on foreshores, creeks and tributaries identified by councils across the catchment. Work is being undertaken along the river to improve ecological health and species biodiversity of riparian areas. Riverbank vegetation provides habitat for local flora and fauna, prevents erosion and sedimentation and filters stormwater runoff, which in turn protects and improves water quality. Green Corps volunteers in Alfords Point,
Georges River National Park The GRCCC partners with Corrective Services NSW for the provision of work teams that comprise individuals on Intensive Correction Orders. The Riverkeeper program also works regularly with volunteer organisations such as the National Parks Association and has used teams of volunteers taking part in the National Green Job Corp program to perform bush regeneration. These individuals receive a Certificate 2 in Conservation and Land Management as a result of their involvement in the program. The Riverkeeper Program works closely with several state government agencies which include the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Office of Environment and Heritage Estuary Management Program.
For more on the Riverkeeper Program, visit www.georgesriver.org.au 56
River Initiatives Community River Health Monitoring Program The Georges River Community River Health Monitoring Program has built a comprehensive database of ecological health indicators, making it the first of its kind in the Sydney area to assess the health of a river on a regional scale. The program was developed by the Georges River Combined Councils’ Committee (GRCCC) in association with the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority, and works in partnership with Georges River Environmental Education Centre, Sydney Water and the community to collect samples at 42 freshwater and estuarine sites across the catchment. Volunteers, led by science professionals, collect and analyse water, vegetation and macroinvertebrate (commonly referred to as ‘waterbug’) samples. The data provides an indication of the ecological health of the sampling site. Over the first 3 years, the program has facilitated over 200 sampling events and the community has contributed more than 2000 volunteer hours to the program. Taken together, the data gives an indication of the overall health of the Georges River. The Program interprets the data to the public through a grading system illustrated graphically on Report Cards. Results from the data show that the overall ecological health of the Georges River is ‘fair’ and large areas of the catchment are in excellent Sampling in Lime Kiln Bay, Lugarno condition. The high degree of urbanisation in the mid and lower catchments has led to a loss of riparian and estuarine vegetation, and deterioration in water quality and macroinvertebrate diversity. The upper catchment benefits from large areas of state and federal protection, resulting in mostly healthy waterways. The GRCCC was awarded funding from the Australian Government to expand the Program and currently work within the Cooks River catchment in partnership with the Cooks River Alliance. For more information on the River Health Program, visit www.georgesriver.org.au 57
River & Estuary Initiatives Healthy Waterways
The five Coastal Catchment Management Authorities (CMA) in partnership with the Boat Owners’ Association of NSW (BOA), Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA), Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW (RFA), NSW Maritime and Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) are undertaking an Environmental Education Strategy for NSW Coastal Boaters and Fishers. The aims of the project are to: 99 Raise the awareness of boaters and fishers to key aquatic environmental issues Underwater surveys
Photo: Jayne Jenkins
99 Encourage, if needed, changes in behaviour to Volunteering Be the eyes, ears & voice of reduce impacts aquatic natural resources – on your waterway needs you! the aquatic environment How boaters & fishers can help:
• To report habitat destruction, fish kills in regional NSW and illegal fishing, phone Fisheries Watch Hotline: 1800 043 536
99 Identify aquatic champions among boating and fishing groups to be trained and deliver peer education • Get involved with existing voluntary organisations • Volunteer to become an Aquatic Champion • Participate in marine debris clean up days • For further information, visit the website: www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au
• To report pollution, algal blooms (marine & freshwater) and to report fish kills in the Sydney Metropolitan area, phone NSW Office of Environment & Heritage Environment Hotline: 13 15 55 (24 hours) • To report a sighting of an aquatic pest, phone: 02 4916 3877 (recorded 24 hour service), or email:
[email protected] • Report suspicious freshwater weeds to your local council weeds officer, or phone NSW Weeds Hotline: 1800 680 244 or email:
[email protected]
99 Encourage individuals to get involved in aquatic habitat rehabilitation projects, for example in marine debris clean up days. Photo: Bimbadeen Landcare
Fishcare volunteers
Landcare volunteers
• To report illegal discharge from vessels or erosion caused by boat wake, phone NSW Maritime Info Line: 13 12 56 (8.30am – 4.30pm, 7 days a week) or email:
[email protected]
This project is partially funded by the five NSW Coastal Catchment Management Authorities and the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.
Project partners achieved this by: 99 producing and distributing educational materials including bi-lingual brochures in 10 languages Funding partners include: Sydney Metropolitan CMA, Northern Rivers CMA, Hunter Central Rivers CMA, Hawkesbury Nepean CMA and Southern Rivers CMA. Other partners include: NSW Department of Primary Industries, NSW Maritime, Boat Owners Association of NSW, Boating Industry Association of NSW and Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW.
Healthy Waterways better boating more fish HOW BOATERS AND FISHERS CAN HELP
Photographs courtesy of NSW Department of Primary Industries or Sydney Metropolitan CMA except where indicated.
Printed on 55% recycled FSC paper stock, using vegetable oil based inks and an alcohol-free printing process. (ecoDesign ecoPrint FSC Cert no. QMI-COC-001113). Coating is BioKote film that is BioDegradable, Compostable, Sustainable and Recyclable.
99 delivering educational presentations to boating and fishing community groups across coastal NSW 99 implementing Marine Debris clean up days across coastal NSW 99
introducing an 'Aquatic Champions' volunteering scheme aimed at providing longevity of the project. Aquatic Champions receive training in aquatic environmental issues and spread the key messages of the project to waterway users on an informal basis.
All education materials and further information about the Healthy Waterways Program can be found on www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au
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River & Estuary Initiatives Ocean Watch Estuary Education
The fishing industry initiated a program with OceanWatch Australia to develop an environmental education resource for Year 7 - 10 students that tackles the issue of coastal-marine management from a whole of catchment perspective. OceanWatch Australia produced 500 resource kits explaining the key physical and ecological processes that operate in coastal-marine environments. The project was jointly funded by the Myer Foundation and NSW Department of Primary Industries, and can be found online by visiting www.oceanwatch.org.au
Fishers for Fish Habitat
Fishers for Fish Habitat is an innovative project funded by fishing fee revenues which recognises the involvement of recreational anglers in habitat improvement initiatives, aiming to inspire anglers to do what they can to protect and enhance vital areas that fish need to survive and thrive. A Fishers for Fish Habitat Forum provides an opportunity for fishers to get together, and share their fish habitat and aquatic rehabilitation stoies. The Forum produces a great collection of stories at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/habitat/rehabilitating/fishers
Habitat Action Grants
The Habitat Action Program provides funding from the Recreational Fishing Trusts for projects that restore, rehabilitate and protect fish habitat in NSW. Applications for funding are sought from individuals, fishing clubs and organisations, community groups or local councils interested in rehabilitating fish habitats in freshwater and saltwater areas of NSW, and are available in August each year. For further information contact the Habitat Action Program coordinator on
[email protected] or phone (02) 6626 1107.
Fishcare Volunteers
The NSW DPI's Fishcare Volunteers Program is a successful recreational fishing education program which gets volunteers to talk to anglers about fishing rules, responsible fishing and the aquatic environment in a variesty of forums such as workshops, surveys, school incursions and community fishing events. Ranging from students to retirees, Fishcare Volunteers give at least one day per month to assist the program, developing better awareness and a tighter community. To become part of the team, volunteers can contact
[email protected] 59
Local River User Contacts Boating
Boating Industry Association of NSW, Ltd Marine Industry Mechanical Repairers Association Sailing Industry Association of NSW Marine Brokers Association of NSW www.bia.org.au Boat Owners' Association of NSW www.boaters.org.au Marina Industries Association of Australia www.marinas.net.au Shipwrights & Boatbuilders Association NSW www.shipwrights.com.au NSW 420 Class Association, Inc. 6 Sailing Clubs in Georges River area www.420nsw.yachting.org.au Yachting NSW www.nsw.yachting.org.au NSW Recreational and Commercial Boating Licenses www.license.nsw.gov.au/New Marine Rescue Sydney www.marinerescuensw.com.au (02) 9450 2468 Marine Rescue Botany Bay www.marinerescuensw.com.au (02) 9668 9888
Paddling
Cronulla Sutherland Kayak Club www.cronullasutherlandkayakclub.com Georges River Bull Sharks Life Saving Club www.bull-sharks.org River Canoe Club of NSW www.rivercanoeclub.com Sutherland Shire Canoe Club www.sutherlandshire.canoe.org.au Paddle NSW, Inc. www.paddlensw.org.au
Fishing
Botany Bay Gamefishing Club www.botanybaygamefishing.com.au South Sydney Amateur Fishing Association www.southsydneyafa.com Sydney Metropolitan Division of NSW Fishing Clubs Association Inc. www.smdnswfca.com.au Sydney Fish Finder - Local Fishing Clubs & News www.sydneyfishfinder.com.au Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW www.rfansw.com.au NSW Fishing Clubs Association www.nswfca.com.au Australian National Sportfishing Association 5 Fishing Clubs in Georges River area www.ansansw.com.au
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Local Volunteer Contacts Bushcare
To find a Bushcare Group in Sydney, visit the SMCMA website, and click 'Get Involved' www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au To find your local Bushcare Group, contact your local council: Bankstown Council - 9707 9999 www.bankstown.nsw.gov.au Fairfield Council - 9725 0222 www.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au Hurstville Council - 9330 6222 www.hurstville.nsw.gov.au Kogarah Council - 9330 9400 www.kogarah.nsw.gov.au Liverpool Council - 1300 362 170 www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au Rockdale Council - 9562 1666 www.rockdale.nsw.gov.au
Australian Plants Society, NSW www.austplants-nsw.org.au City-St George Group East Hills Group (Peakhurst) Menai Wildflower Group Sutherland Group
River care
Streamwatch www.streamwatch.org.au Fishcare Volunteers & Fishers for Fish Habitat www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/ info/fvp Fish Habitat Network www.fishhabitatnetwork.com.au Georges River Combined Councils' Committee Community River Health Monitoring Georges Riverkeeper www.georgesriver.org.au
Sutherland Council - 9710 0333 www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au Landcare Volunteers www.landcareonline.com.au www.juniorlandcare.com.au National Parks Assocation of NSW Southern Sydney Branch (Sutherland) http://branches.npansw.org.au/southernsydney Oatley Flora & Fauna Conservation Society, Inc. http://off.oatleypark.com/
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Reflection
Photo by Mary Bailey
By Frances Bodkin As a young child, my mother taught me about a freshwater spring that was underwater in Botany Bay. This spring was very special to the stingrays who were the guardians of the Bay – it was their healing place. Recently I read in the newspapers about poisonous wastes that had been infiltrating the lens of freshwater under what was once the sandhills of Kurnell, and I wondered whether that lens fed the spring. Many, many years ago, after particularly wild storms my mother would take us down to the beach at Brighton, at the base of the sandhills that used to be there, where we would pick up the stranded stingrays and put them back into the water. I remember that they looked at me, their eyes were the same as our dog's, they were brown, and they looked into my eyes. They were not afraid, nor were they angry. After a horrific storm recently, I went down to Botany Bay. There were no sandhills anymore, and there were no stingrays. I walked around the mouth of the Georges River, where we used to catch prawns on moonless nights, then up to Carss Park, where we would play in the mud of the swamp behind the beach, and then run across the road to wash the mud off in the River. I remember near Tom Ugly’s Bridge, there was a family of Water Rats, and I often wondered why these lively, fun-loving creatures were called rats, when they were more like an Australian equivalent of otters. My Mum said that White Men called 62
them rats so people could kill them and not feel bad about it. They are no longer there, in fact, so many things are not there anymore. Time moves on and things change. But these changes have not been brought about by time moving on. These changes have been brought about by our thoughtless actions, by greed or by disrespect of Our Land. We need to work together, to gather the knowledge and the memories of those who have known the River as it was, and as it is today. There is one resource that can be traded, shared, or given away, and shall remain the responsibility and possession of the owner. That resource is knowledge. In traditional D’harawal society, knowledge was treasured and protected, both physically and spiritually. There were laws and responsibilities governing passing on knowledge, and the punishment for misuse of knowledge was indeed dire. Without knowledge of resources and how to use them, natural resources are useless. Without knowledge of the natural resources, the community could not survive. We cannot move time backwards, but we can make sure that we do not repeat the mistakes we have made.
Photo by Alex Vandine
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Printed on 100% recycled paper. For a copy of the Estuary Booklet, contact
[email protected] or visit www.georgesriver.org.au. Visit us on Facebook at Georges River, NSW
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