mictchell river national park management...

Mitchell River National ParkOctober 1998

Management Plan

This Management Plan for Mitchell River National Park is approved for implementation. Its purpose is to direct all aspects of management in the Park until the Plan is reviewed. A Draft Management Plan for the area was published in August 1997. Seven submission were received and have been considered in developing this Approved Plan.

Copies of this Plan can be obtained from:

Parks Victoria378 Cotham RoadKEW VIC 3101

Parks Victoria Information Centre 35 Whitehorse RoadDEEPDENE VIC 3103

NRE Information Centre 8 Nicholson StreetEAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002

Parks Victoria Cann River Office 2 Princes HighwayCANN RIVER VIC 3889

For further information on the Plan, please contact:

Dennis MatthewsChief RangerEast Gippsland Park Management Area Victoria East RegionParks Victoria 7 Service StreetBAIRNSDALE VIC 38755152 0400

MITCHELL RIVER NATIONAL

PARK MANAGEMENT

PLAN

October 1998

2 Mitchell River National Park

Published in October 1998 by Parks Victoria 378 Cotham Road, Kew, Victoria, 3101

National Library of Australia Cataloguing-in-Publication entry

Parks Victoria.Mitchell River National Park.

Bibliography.ISBN 0 7306 6258 6

1. National parks and reserves - Victoria - Mitchell River Region - Management. 2. Mitchell River National Park (Vic.). I. Title.

333.783099456

Cover: Mitchell River Gorge (Photo: D S Saunders)

Printed on recycled paper to help save our natural environment

FOREWORD

Mitchell River National Park

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The rugged Mitchell River National Park is an important area in East Gippsland for the conservation of native flora and fauna and is also noted for its geological features such as the Mitchell River Gorge. The River, fringed by unusual Warm Temperate and Dry Rainforest, supports significant freshwater habitats.

The Park’s rugged gorges and spectacular scenery are an outstanding setting for visitors wishing to experience a sense of remoteness and wildness.

Visitor experiences will continue to be enhanced by the sensitive siting of facilities.

At the same time, water quality and the Park’s natural values will be protected.

This Approved Plan establishes the long-term management framework for protecting the Park’s natural and recreational values, and ensures that it will play an important role in nature-based tourism.

I thank the individuals and organisations who made submissions on the Draft Plan, and look forward to the community’s support in managing this outstanding national park.

Marie Tehan MP Minister for Conservation and Land Management


APPROVED MANAGEMENT PLAN

This Approved Management Plan, prepared under section 17 of the National Parks Act 1975 (Vic.), is approved for implementation.

Rod Gowans A/Director National Parks

The Plan provides the basis and direction for the future management of Mitchell River National Park. It was finalised following consideration of the seven submissions received on the Draft Plan.

Mark Stone Chief Executive Parks Victoria

SUMMARY


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Mitchell River National Park is dissected by the spectacular Mitchell River, one of 18 Victorian Heritage Rivers. The Park has high conservation significance, particularly its Warm Temperate and Dry Rainforest communities and geological features such as the Mitchell River Gorge. Protecting these values is a major focus of management.

The Park offers excellent opportunities for rafting or canoeing, bushwalking, dispersed camping and hunting. The Mitchell River offers one of the best white-water experiences in Victoria. There are also opportunities to view the spectacular landscapes of the Park; peaceful picnic settings provide for more passive recreation. These recreational aspects will be improved and linked with the promotion of key nature-based tourism attractions in the Gippsland region.

Major management directions for the Park are described below.

· Significant natural and cultural features will be given special protection.

· A majority of the northern section of the Park will remain essentially undeveloped, to protect the unmodified streams and the catchment within this area and to enhance remote values.

· The Mitchell River will be managed in accordance with its Heritage River status.

· Research into fire and effects of fuel reduction burning will be conducted to establish, implement and maintain fire regimes appropriate to the conservation of native flora and fauna.

· A pest plants, animals and diseases strategy which identifies key sites, target species and methods of control will be prepared.

· Visitor enjoyment of the Park will be enhanced by improved interpretation of key features such as the Den of Nargun.

· Camping and facilities in the Park will be rationalised and developed in keeping with its remote character.

vi Mitchell River National Park

CONTENTS


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FOREWORD iii

SUMMARY v

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Location and planning area 11.2 Regional context 11.3 Significance of the Park 11.4 Creation of the Park 21.5 Legislation and guidelines 21.6 Park management aims 2

2 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 4

2.1 Park vision 42.2 Management directions 42.3 Zoning 5

3 RESOURCE CONSERVATION 7

3.1 Geological and landform features 73.2 Vegetation 73.3 Fauna 83.4 Rivers and catchments 93.5 Landscape 93.6 Cultural heritage 10

4 PARK PROTECTION 12

4.1 Fire management 124.2 Pest plants and animals, and diseases 124.3 Soil conservation 134.4 Water quality 13

5 THE PARK VISIT 15

5.1 The Park visitor 155.2 Visitor recreation activities and facilities 17

5.2.1 Access 175.2.2 Day visits 175.2.3 River use 205.2.4 Bushwalking 215.2.5 Camping 215.2.6 Bike riding 225.2.7 Horse riding 22

viii Mitchell River National Park

5.2.8 Deer hunting 225.2.9 Rock climbing and abseiling 22

5.3 Visitor information, interpretation and education 235.4 Commercial tourism operations 235.5 Public safety 24

6 COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT 25

6.1 Friends and volunteers 256.2 Community awareness and Park neighbours 25

7 OTHER ISSUES 26

7.1 Authorised uses 267.2 Boundaries and adjacent use 26

8 IMPLEMENTATION 28

REFERENCES 29

TABLES

1 Park management zones and overlays 62 Summary of recreation activities 163 Management of roads and tracks 184 Existing and proposed recreation facilities 205 Priority management strategies 28

APPENDICES

I Sites of geological and geomorphological significance 30II Significant flora 31III Significant fauna 32

FIGURES

1 Locality End of plan2 Management zones "3 Access and recreation facilities "

Introduction


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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Location and planning areaMitchell River National Park (11 900 ha) is in eastern Victoria, 320 km east of Melbourne and 25 km north-west of Bairnsdale (figure 1). Centred on the Mitchell River Gorge, the Park contains some of Gippsland’s most spectacular scenery, and offers excellent recreational opportunities.

The Park is bordered by Bull Creek Divide Track to the west and Wattle Creek Road to the east. The western and eastern boundaries are adjoined by public land; freehold land abuts the northern and southern boundaries.

The planning area (12 200 ha) covers:

· Mitchell River National Park (11 900 ha);

· two areas which abut the northern boundary of the Park, 174 ha owned by Southern Rural Water and 90 ha of Crown land. Both areas are managed as part of the Park in accordance with Land Conservation Council recommendations (LCC 1983).

1.2 Regional contextMitchell River National Park is in the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland, with ready access from the provincial City of Bairnsdale. It lies within reach of the rugged Alpine National Park, and The Lakes National Park and Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, parts of one of the most extensive inland waterways in Australia. This area of Gippsland contains many other reserves, such as the Buchan Caves Reserve and Nyerimilang Park. Mitchell River National Park is an integral part of a diverse range of reserves which are popular with both tourists and locals.

1.3 Significance of the ParkMitchell River National Park makes a valuable contribution to Victoria’s parks system, which aims to protect viable representative samples of the State’s natural environments occurring on public land. Parks also provide opportunities for visitors to enjoy and appreciate natural and cultural values, and many make important contributions to tourism.

Mitchell River National Park protects spectacular river scenery, rugged landscapes and significant occurrences of some of Victoria’s more unusual vegetation communities. Its natural values complement those protected in other conservation reserves in the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland area.

The spectacular scenery and remote character of the Park and the Mitchell River attract those wanting to experience solitude and self-reliant recreation. The Park is particularly suited to bushwalkers, canoeists and rafters, and many school groups conduct outdoor education activities within it. Its proximity to Bairnsdale makes it easily accessible and an ideal destination for day visitors.

The Park is assigned the IUCN Category II (National Parks) of the United Nations’ List of National Parks and Protected Areas. Category II areas are managed primarily for ecosystem conservation and appropriate recreation.

The former Glenaladale National Park (now part of Mitchell River National Park) is listed on the Register of the National Estate, in recognition of the area’s outstanding values and its importance as a part of our heritage.

Significant features of the Park are listed below.

Natural values· The Mitchell River, proclaimed as a

Heritage River.

· Three sites of State geological significance associated with the Mitchell River and its tributaries.

· The Den of Nargun and other small caves of local geological and cultural significance.

· Rainforest communities of National biogeographic significance.

· A number of rare and threatened plant species, and significant vegetation communities.

· Habitats supporting a number of threatened fauna species, including the Regent

Introduction


Honeyeater, Broad-toothed Rat, Giant Burrowing Frog and Australian Grayling.

Cultural values· Sites associated with Aboriginal culture.

· Relics of early European exploration, settlement, gold sluicing and farming, including the Glenaladale Weir (old Mitchell River Weir).

Tourism and recreation values· Opportunities to experience, in a variety of

ways, some of Victoria’s more spectacular river and gorge scenery and a sense of remoteness within easy reach of a major regional centre.

· A number of natural attractions complementing features in other parts of the Gippsland Lakes and Hinterland, and providing opportunities for high quality interpretation.

· One of the best white-water rafting or canoeing trips in Victoria, down the Mitchell River.

· Short walks to key features including the Den of Nargun, Warm Temperate Rainforest and spectacular views of the Mitchell River.

· Opportunities to enjoy dispersed camping along the Mitchell River.

· Remote, self-reliant walking opportunities along the Mitchell River.

· Scenic 4WD touring on a network of remote vehicle tracks.

1.4 Creation of the ParkMitchell River National Park is a significant extension of Glenaladale National Park (163 ha) which was reserved on 13 November 1963 as a result of the Glenaladale National Park Act 1962 (Vic.), with 20 ha added in 1978.

This Park was renamed and extended to include the Mitchell River Gorge, foothill forests and rainforest communities to the north, as a result of the Land Conservation Council’s (LCC) Final Recommendations for the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland Study Area (LCC 1983).

The LCC recommended the area be a State Park, but this was amended to ‘National Park’. Subsequently, as a result of the National Parks (Amendment) Act 1986 (Vic.) Mitchell River National Park was declared on 17 June 1986.

1.5 Legislation and guidelinesMitchell River National Park is reserved and managed under the National Parks Act. The Act requires the Director to preserve and protect the natural condition of the Park and its natural and other features, and, subject to this, to provide for the use of the Park by the public for enjoyment, recreation and education. The Act also provides for appropriate research.

The LCC’s Rivers and Streams Special Investigation Final Recommendations (LCC 1991) recommended the Mitchell River and a major tributary, the Wonnangatta, as a Heritage River. This was proclaimed under the Heritage Rivers Act 1992 (Vic.) on 10 September 1992. It will be managed in accordance with that Act, LCC recommendations and a separate management plan now prepared for the River (NRE 1997).

The Park is managed in accordance with LCC recommendations, Parks Victoria guidelines for the management of parks and with other plans and guidelines.

1.6 Park management aimsSections 4 (Objects) and 17 of the National Parks Act provide the main basis for management of the Park. The following management aims are derived from those sections and as such broadly govern all aspects of park management.

Resource conservation· Preserve and protect the natural

environment, including the landscape, and conserve the native flora and fauna, with special emphasis on protection of rainforest and significant species.

· Conserve features of historical, cultural and archaeological significance.

· Allow natural processes to continue with minimal interference.

Introduction


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· Maintain biodiversity.

· Maintain, and where possible enhance, wilderness experiences.

Park protection· Protect water catchments and stream

systems.

· Control, and where possible eradicate, introduced plants, animals and diseases.

· Protect human life, the Park and adjacent lands from injury by fire.

The Park visit· Provide opportunities for appropriate

recreation and tourism in keeping with the remote character of the Park.

· Promote and encourage an appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of the Park’s natural and cultural values and its recreational opportunities.

· Encourage appropriate park use and visitor behaviour, and foster a conservation ethic in visitors.

· Take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of visitors.

Other· Provide for and encourage scientific

research, surveys and monitoring that will contribute to a better understanding and management of the Park.

· Co-operate with local, State and interstate government authorities, the community and other interested organisations to assist in the management of the Park.

Strategic directions


2 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

2.1 Park visionA future visitor to Mitchell River National Park finds an outstanding Park renowned for its spectacular river scenery, diverse environments and the opportunity to experience a sense of remoteness close to major centres. The Park is managed with an increasing understanding of its natural environments. Its many significant species and communities and landscape qualities are well protected, and disturbance to catchments is minimal.

Visitor facilities are concentrated mainly in the more accessible sections of the Park. These, and accompanying high quality interpretation, assist day visitors and campers to enjoy and better understand the superb natural features of the Park. Away from the 2WD roads, visitors enjoy rafting or canoeing the white water of the spectacular gorges of the Mitchell River (which remains one of the best white-water experiences in Victoria), walking along sections of the River, or four-wheel driving on more remote tracks.

The Park is increasingly valued as an important part of the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland natural tourism attractions, and is promoted in the context of the full range of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Careful and sensitive management by Parks Victoria, supported by the local community, ensures that increased visitor use is accommodated without compromising the Park’s key attributes. The interests of future generations in the Park are assured.

2.2 Management directionsMajor management directions for the Park are outlined below.

Resource conservation· Significant natural and cultural features

will be given special protection. Initial priorities will be given to rainforest communities, geological and cultural sites, Peregrine Falcon breeding sites and catchment management.

· Significant sites, species and communities will be monitored and appropriately protected.

· The Mitchell River will be managed in accordance with its Heritage River status.

· Visitor impacts on the Mitchell River and immediate surrounds will be minimised.

· The majority of the northern section of the Park will be essentially undeveloped to protect the unmodified streams and the catchment within this area and to enhance remote values.

Park protection· Research into fire and effects of fuel

reduction burning will be conducted to establish, implement and maintain fire regimes appropriate to the conservation of native flora and fauna.

· A pest plants and animals and diseases strategy will be prepared which identifies key sites, and targets species and methods of control.

· A high quality water catchment will be maintained for the water supply of Bairnsdale and Paynesville.

The Park visit· Visitor enjoyment of the Park will be

enhanced by improved interpretation of key features such as the Den of Nargun.

· Camping and other visitor facilities in the Park will be rationalised and developed, in keeping with its remote character.

· Facilities will be improved and recreation opportunities enhanced at key sites such as the Den of Nargun and Billy Goat Bend.

· The Park will be promoted as a nature- based tourism destination and one of Gippsland’s key attractions.



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Community awareness and involvement· Co-operation with local landholders,

community groups and local government will be fostered to encourage the application of the Good Neighbour Policy to management issues on or near the boundary of the Park.

2.3 ZoningThere is a need to ensure that management aims and objectives covering resource conservation, park protection and recreation are compatible. A park management zoning scheme has been developed for Mitchell River National Park which:

· provides a geographic framework in which to manage the Park;

· indicates which management directions have priority in different parts of the Park;

· indicates the types and level of use appropriate throughout the Park;

· assists in minimising existing and potential conflicts between uses and activities, or between those and the protection of park values;

· provides a basis for assessing the suitability of future activities and development proposals.

Three management zones apply to the Park - Conservation, Conservation and Recreation, and Recreation Development. In addition, land use designations for heritage river and hunting, and special protection areas for historic areas and rainforest, are used to summarise requirements additional to those of the underlying primary zones.

Table 1 specifies management zone and overlay characteristics, and the locations of these zones are shown on figure 2.



TABLE 1 PARK MANAGEMENT ZONES AND OVERLAYS

ZONE AREA/LOCATION VALUES GENERAL MANAGEMENT AIM

CONSERVATION 7950 ha; 65% of Essentially Protect sensitive naturalPark. Comprises undisturbed forests and environments and provide forthree catchment catchments of high minimal impact recreation activitiesareas. conservation and simple visitor facilities, subject

significance. to ensuring minimal interference tonatural processes.

Limited upgrading of roads andtracks will be carried out asnecessary. New roads, walkingtracks and other facilities will not beconstructed in the CobbannahCreek, Bald Hills Creek and SandyCreek catchments.

CONSERVATION 4132 ha, 34% of Important natural Protect less sensitive naturalAND RECREATION Park. values and scope for

recreationenvironments, and provide forsustainable dispersed recreation

opportunities. activities and small-scale recreationfacilities without significant impacton natural processes.

RECREATION 128 ha; 1% of Park. Sites with facility Provide primarily for high useDEVELOPMENT Comprises

Angusvale, Billydevelopment in anatural setting.

visitor nodes with a concentration ofrecreation and/or interpretation

Goat Bend, and Den facilities.of Nargun areas.

OVERLAY

LAND USE Generally 200 m Designated rivers Protect heritage values.DESIGNATION A wide along the significant for nature— HERITAGE RIVER

Mitchell andWonnangatta River banks, increasing up to 2 km wide in Mitchell River Gorge.

conservation,recreation, scenic or cultural heritage.

LAND USE DESIGNATION B— DEER HUNTING

SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA — CULTURAL

SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA — NATURAL

Comprises the eastern section of the Park from the Mitchell River boundary.

Honey House, Glenaladale Weir.

Warm Temperate and Dry Rainforest

Forested remote areas with difficult access.

Discrete significant areas requiring special attention.

Discrete significant communities scattered throughout the Park.

Provide for specific legislative requirements relating to deer hunting by stalking.

Protect specific cultural values.

Protect sensitive natural environments and provide for minimal impact recreation activities.

Resource conservation


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3 RESOURCE CONSERVATION

3.1 Geological and landform features

The Park, in the southern foothills of the Great Dividing Range, is a series of steep dissected ridges and valleys.

The Park has three sites of State geological and geomorphological significance: the Mitchell River Gorge between Cobbannah Creek and Raymond Creek, Sandy Creek, and Tabberabbera (which extends out of the Park); these sites include areas with significant fossils (McRae-Williams et al. 1981).

The Den of Nargun, which was created by erosion of mudstone beneath more resistant sandstone, is of local significance. It is a major visitor attraction and of major cultural significance (section 3.6).

Sites of geological and geomorphological significance are listed in appendix I.

Aims

· Protect sites of geological and geomorphological significance.

· Minimise the impacts of visitor and management activities on significant geological features.

Management strategies

· Monitor the impact of visitor activities on sites of significance. Develop and implement guidelines as required.

· Develop appropriate interpretation and facilities at the Den of Nargun to help protect it from visitor impacts (sections 5.2 and 5.3).

· Encourage scientific research into the geology and geomorphology of the Park.

3.2 VegetationThe Park has significant flora conservation values with several significant communities and a number of rare or threatened species of State

significance and over 20 regionally significant species (appendix II).

Five major vegetation communities have been identified in the Park.

The Closed Forests of the Mitchell River National Park are of national biogeographic significance. Dry Rainforest stands in the Mitchell River Gorge and along Cobbannah Creek represent the southern limit of distribution for this sub-formation type, and the best example of this community in the State. These stands also are at the community’s western limit within Victoria. The dominant species of Dry Rainforest in Mitchell River National Park is Kurrajong (Cameron 1992).

The Park contains the largest and most significant concentration of well developed stands of Warm Temperate Rainforest near the western limit of its distribution. The Warm Temperate Rainforest in the Park also displays an extremely diverse rainforest canopy. Up to seven prominent tree species, including Lilly Pilly and Kanuka, co-dominate the upper canopy (Forbes et al. 1981).

The Open Forest community is the most widespread in the Park. Silver-top Ash occurs mostly on the broad flat ridge tops, and gum and stringybark species are prevalent on sheltered slopes and drainage lines. Manna Gum occurs in this forest type principally along water-courses.

The Closed Scrub community is most prevalent around the Glenaladale area. This community is dominated by Burgan and Silver Wattle as a result of past clearing and a wildfire in 1965.

Open pastures occur at Angusvale and Horseshoe Bend. These areas contain a variety of introduced grasses mixed with native grasses such as Wallaby-grass and Brown Grass.

The disused airstrip requires revegetation as it is no longer required for fire management.

Aims



· Conserve native plant communities in their natural condition and maintain genetic diversity.

· Provide special protection for significant plant species and communities.

· Minimise visitor impact on vegetation communities.


· Establish monitoring sites in Dry and Warm Temperate Rainforests to help identify any threatening processes and to determine appropriate management.

· Revegetate the following areas in accordance with Parks Victoria guidelines:

· the disused airstrip on Mitchell River Road;

· the small section of Calvi Hill Track that is to be closed (section 5.2.1).

· Encourage further research to determine optimum fire regimes for vegetation communities (section 4.1).

· Protect riparian vegetation communities from weed invasion through control of pest plants as appropriate (section 4.2).

· Encourage botanical surveys to develop a better understanding of the composition of the Park’s vegetation communities.

· Manage Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic.) (FFG) listed plants and communities according to approved action statements.

3.3 FaunaThe Park contains a diverse range of fauna, including 20 significant species (appendix III).

Twenty-five species of mammals have been recorded within the Park, including six that are rare or threatened in Victoria (appendix III). There have been no confirmed sightings of the Eastern Quoll since 1901 (NRE database 1998a) and it is presumed to be extinct in Victoria. The Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby has

not been sighted in the Park for many years, although it does occur in other areas of East Gippsland (Reside J. 1996 pers. comm). Neither species is thought to have survived in the Park. Spot-tailed Quolls have been sighted on the western edge of the Park as recently as 1995 (Campbell M. 1996 pers. comm.).

Disturbances, including the 1965 fires, resulted in a significant decline in the population of Koalas within the Park. In 1988, 18 Koalas from French Island were released into the eastern side of the Park. There have been few sightings of these Koalas; the most recent was in 1995 (Campbell M. 1996 pers. comm.).

Of the 178 bird species recorded in the Park, 54% have been observed nesting in the area. Seven species are rare or threatened in Victoria (appendix III).

The Peregrine Falcon occurs in the Park and there are two known breeding sites.

Ten reptile species have been recorded in the Park, of which three are rare or uncommon in Victoria. The Copper-tailed Skink is at the southern limit of its known range (Martin R. 1996, pers. comm.).

Two species of fish in the Mitchell River, the Australian Bass and the Australian Grayling, are threatened. Special protection of these species and appropriate management of their habitat is essential for their survival.

The Pencilled Blue Butterfly was recorded in the Park in December 1989 (Dunn 1990). This is the only known population of this rare butterfly in Victoria (appendix III). Females of the species are thought to be associated with Kurrajong trees, which are in adequate supply in the Park to sustain its survival but do not extend west of the Park (Dunn 1990).

Aims

· Protect native fauna communities and maintain genetic diversity.

· Enhance the long term survival prospects of threatened or significant species.




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· Manage species and communities listed under the FFG in accordance with approved action statements.

· Develop strategies to protect significant fauna species.

· Minimise disturbance to the Kurrajong communities to protect populations of the Pencilled Blue Butterfly.

· Encourage surveys to improve knowledge of the fauna, concentrating on locating and monitoring populations of significant species within the Park. As a priority determine the status of Koala, Spot-tailed Quoll and Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby populations.

· Monitor the condition of known habitats and population numbers of Australian Bass and Australian Grayling. Protect riparian habitat from disturbance where possible.

· Monitor breeding sites and populations of the Peregrine Falcon in the Park, and protect sites from disturbance by visitors.

3.4 Rivers and catchmentsThe Mitchell River is part of a 260 km long system which flows from the Great Dividing Range to its mouth in the Gippsland Lakes. It is the largest free-flowing river in Victoria. The River is free of barriers that affect the movement of native fish and (until south of the Park) water diversions that affect natural flows (LCC 1991).

The Mitchell River was declared a Heritage River in 1992 in recognition of its outstanding conservation and recreation values (section 1.5). The heritage river corridor is generally 200 m wide from either bank, although within the gorge of the Mitchell River it extends to about 2 km wide.

Aims

· Protect and enhance the conservation and recreation values of the Mitchell River.

· Protect and maintain the integrity of the catchments within the Park.

· Retain the river corridor free from impoundment and artificial barriers.


· Minimise the impact of management and visitor activities on rivers and catchments in the Park (sections 4.3 and 4.4).

· In accordance with the Heritage Rivers Act, do not erect or construct any impoundments or artificial barriers that may impede water flow or passage of instream fauna.

3.5 LandscapeMitchell River National Park is characterised by a network of valleys, steep cliffs and gorges. The Mitchell River Gorge is a spectacular landscape feature. The extensive Open Forests contrast with pockets of Warm Temperate and Dry Rainforest in the gullies. The water forms of the Mitchell River and its tributaries are diverse. To the north, east and west of the Park there are vast forests, and to the south there is agricultural land.

These characteristics, together with expansive views, contribute to the appeal and high visual quality of the landscape.

Aims

· Protect and preserve landscape values, especially in areas of high scenic quality.

· Minimise the impact of management activities on landscape values.

· Rehabilitate, remove or ameliorate undesirable visual intrusions where possible.


· Ensure that new developments are planned and designed to minimise their impact on landscape values.

· Manage any fire protection works and pest plant control to minimise impacts on landscape values.

3.6 Cultural heritage



The area which is now Park was significant for two clans of the Kurnai; the area east of the Mitchell River to the Brabuwooloong and the area to the west to the Brayakoloong.

Very little is known about the activities of these two clans. It is likely that they inhabited the flat plains and visited the rugged gorge area. Howitt (1875) indicated that Aborigines did not often enter the gorge itself.

Seven Aboriginal archaeological sites are recorded in the Park by Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; 2 rock shelters, 3 surface scatters and 2 scarred trees. The Park has not been surveyed for cultural heritage sites.

The Den of Nargun is a special site for women of the Kurnai, and may have been used for women’s initiation and learning ceremonies. It is included on the Bataluk Cultural Trail, an informal trail of Aboriginal sites between Sale and Cann River developed by the Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative.

Canoes, shelters and containers were commonly manufactured from bark removed from trees. This method left the trees with a distinctive scar. Two such trees have been identified in the Park south of Angusvale. One is reputed to be the tree from which one of Howitt’s Aboriginal assistants cut a canoe for their journey down the River.

Pickering (1979) undertook a quantitative archaeological survey as part of the assessment for a proposed dam to be built by the Rural Water Corporation (now Southern Rural Water). This report concluded that there was insufficient archaeological evidence to define prehistoric settlement patterns.

The discovery of a rock shelter and shell midden north of the old Glenaladale Weir prompted the Victorian Archaeological Survey to conduct a survey in September 1988 (Pearce et al. 1988). The survey uncovered fourteen shelters not previously recorded.

All Aboriginal sites and relics are protected under the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act 1972 (Vic.) and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (Cwlth). The appropriate Aboriginal community organisation

for cultural heritage in the Park is the Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co- operative Ltd.

An application for a native title determination has been lodged with the Native Title Tribunal covering among other areas, Mitchell River National Park.

The mountainous area to the north of the Gippsland Plains remained largely unexplored until the gold rush era. Grazing runs were established on the undulating country between Dargo and Tabberabbera between 1845 and 1847 (LCC 1982).

In 1857 gold was discovered in the foothills. The alluvial fields along the Mitchell River and its tributaries were worked from the late 1850s to early this century. Reef mining began in the area in the 1860s.

From the 1870s until early this century the Mitchell River Gorge was spasmodically worked for gold. The water-race of the Mitchell River Sluicing Company, which operated near Angusvale, is still apparent.

The ruins of the Glenaladale Weir (old Mitchell River Weir), constructed in 1881, are located at the junction of Stony Creek and the Mitchell River. Stone for the weir was quarried from the western side of the River. Between 1891 and 1894 the weir was substantially damaged by floods and was never repaired.

The Honey House, a stone relic of the ‘Rising Sun Apiary 1923’, is made from natural stone bonded with clay and pointed with mortar on the exterior. The chimney is unusual as the external wall of the chimney does not break the external line of the house.

The site of the Angusvale Hotel is on adjacent land owned by Southern Rural Water (section 7.2).

Aims

· Identify and protect archaeological and historical values and sites.

· Improve knowledge and understanding of the history of the Park.

· Provide interpretive information for visitors as appropriate.



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· Identify, protect and manage Aboriginal sites within the Park in accordance with Parks Victoria guidelines and in consultation with Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd and Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.

· Liaise with Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd to develop interpretive information for visitors about Aboriginal culture, particularly at the Den of Nargun.

· Continue to involve Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd in site protection works.

· Stabilise the tree north of Rock Creek reputed to be Howitt’s Canoe Tree, and provide interpretive information for visitors about the significance of this tree to Howitt’s journey down the Mitchell River.

· Protect Glenaladale Weir from soil erosion around the eastern end of the wall, and provide interpretive information about the history and construction of the weir.

· Ensure adequate protection of the Honey House, and evaluate whether the site is suitable for linking with an interpreted walking track to the Glenaladale Weir.

Park protection


4 PARK PROTECTION

4.1 Fire managementFire management includes all activities used in fire suppression, pre-suppression and ecological burning.

The National Parks Act requires the Director to ensure that appropriate and sufficient measures are taken to protect parks from injury by fire.

Current fire protection measures are in accordance with the Bairnsdale Region Fire Protection Plan (DCE 1990). This sets out priority fuel reduction zones and prescriptions for carrying out fire suppression and pre- suppression activities. Fire protection within Mitchell River National Park is designed to protect significant features in the Park and on adjacent freehold land. The plan is currently being revised.

Selection of pre-suppression and suppression techniques will consider the conservation values and ecological requirements of vegetation communities, in particular rainforest. Fire intensity and frequency are major influences on the development of vegetation communities and fauna. However, burning specifically for ecological purposes has not been carried out, and research is required into the effects of fire and fire ecology of flora and fauna communities.

Aims

· Minimise the adverse effects of all fires and fire suppression methods on natural features, particularly significant flora and fauna.

· Protect life, property and park values from injury by fire.

· Establish, implement and maintain fire regimes appropriate to the conservation of native flora and fauna.


· Publicise and enforce fire regulations on the use of fire in the Park. Plan strategic patrols in areas of high public use during periods of high fire danger to ensure visitor safety and compliance with fire regulations.

· Provide input into the preparation of the fire management sub-plan for the Mitchell River National Park as part of the revised Bairnsdale Fire Protection Plan, including:

· determining the appropriate fire regimes for specific vegetation types;

· undertaking ecological burning or slashing in accordance with approved plans to promote populations of threatened flora or fauna;

· monitoring the effects of fuel reduction burning on vegetation communities and associated fauna in the Park;

· preparing a fire suppression preferred methods table for the different vegetation communities.

· Use the following suppression methods wherever practicable, safe and effective:

· fire-line construction using hand crews;· air attack using aircraft to drop water

or foam or as a last resort retardant;· back-burning from existing roads and

tracks.

· Avoid wildfire suppression activities using bulldozers wherever possible within 100 m of the following environments:

· Warm Temperate Rainforest;· Dry Rainforest;· Riparian Forest;· rivers and streams.

4.2 Pest plants and animals, and diseases

At least 80 species of non-indigenous plants and five species of non-indigenous animals occur in the Park. Pest plants of particular concern are Blackberry, Blue Periwinkle, Wandering Creeper, willows, Ox-eye Daisy and Ragwort. Feral goats, rabbits, foxes and cats are the major pest animals requiring control. In particular, feral goats appear to be damaging Dry Rainforest areas.

Cinnamon Fungus is thought to be present within the Park but is not confirmed.

Aims

Park protection

Mitchell River National Park 13

· Assess the impacts of pest plants and animals on the values of the Park.

· Control, and where possible eradicate, pest plants and animals.

· Minimise the potential for introduction and spread of any pest plants and diseases.

· Minimise the impact of control programs on indigenous flora and fauna.

· Restore native vegetation to areas infested by introduced plants.


· Prepare a pest plant and animal control strategy which identifies key sites, target species and methods of control. As a priority concentrate on feral goats in Dry Rainforest areas, and pest animal control in or adjacent to the habitat of significant fauna.

· Test for the presence of Cinnamon Fungus.If confirmed, identify and map infected areas and prepare a management strategy.

4.3 Soil conservationThe Mitchell River supplies water for irrigation on the Lindenow flats and for the Bairnsdale township (section 4.4). Protection of soils and the catchment is therefore a high priority.

Management of rivers and catchments is linked to the management of vegetation cover and the protection of soils. The existing vegetation cover gives a high degree of catchment protection, but natural processes (e.g. fire) and development activities (e.g. road construction and maintenance, campground development, maintenance and use) have the potential to reduce catchment and river qualities.

Red Glenaladale soils are of particular concern in the area because they are susceptible to erosion.

Land systems within the Park have been assessed for their susceptibility to erosion based on topography, soil type, vegetation and geology results.

Aims

· Prevent and control soil erosion from visitor and management activities.

· Protect catchments within the Park.

· Minimise siltation caused by disturbance of creek and river banks and crossings so that water quality is not compromised.


· Ensure that tracks have adequate drainage, particularly tracks in high use areas with little vegetation cover.

· In undertaking road improvements and maintenance, establish stable surfaces supported by sensitive drainage to minimise erosion and subsequent stream sedimentation.

· Keep disturbance of stream crossings to a minimum to reduce road runoff and the possibility of weed invasion.

· Monitor visitor impact on riverbanks and campsites, and rehabilitate sites as appropriate.

4.4 Water qualityMitchell River is part of a declared special water supply catchment area under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (Vic.), and water quality of the River is considered to be high.

The Mitchell River is the main water supply for the towns of Lindenow, Lindenow South, Bairnsdale, Paynesville, Eagle Point and Raymond Island. It is proposed that in the future it will also supply Lakes Entrance and Bruthen. Therefore water quality is of prime concern.

With the increasing popularity of river use activities it is imperative that water quality is not affected. Uncontrolled human waste disposal and inappropriately sited toilet facilities potentially pose a health risk not only to people using town water supplies, but also to Park visitors who may drink or use water from the River.

Park protection


Visitors must take care in the disposal of human waste away from stream and river banks.

The use of soap, detergent or similar substances for personal washing and utensils can also pollute the water.

Aim

· Protect and maintain the quality and integrity of the water resources in the Park.


· Provide information to visitors at major entrances to the River and also on brochures, about the importance of water quality and the effects of human waste, and encourage minimum impact activities (including adherence to Park Regulations regarding camping and hygiene).

· Encourage river users and bushwalkers to camp where the river bank is the widest and discourage camping on the banks of the River in the very narrow sections of the gorges.

· Ensure that conditions relating to protection of water quality are included in Commercial Tour Operator permits.

· Locate future toilet facilities at least 100 metres away from any stream or river; relocate existing toilets or convert to EPA standards as appropriate.

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5 THE PARK VISIT

5.1 The Park visitorThe number of visitors attracted to Mitchell River National Park is approximately 50 000 each year, including around 28 000 day visitors.

The Park offers three distinctive opportunities for visitors to enjoy its key attributes. They are:

· for self-reliant visitors, to enjoy the more remote areas of the Park, particularly through canoeing and rafting the Mitchell River, bushwalking and camping;

· for 4WD and other visitors, to enjoy more remote areas of the Park;

· for those in 2WD vehicles to enjoy day visits to key features or vehicle-based camping at key sites.

A Parks visitor segmentation study identified nine segment types, of which Natural Adventurers, Escape to Nature and Young Thrill Seekers are most likely to be interested in Mitchell River National Park.

In addition to the variety of recreational activities on offer, the Park enables visitors to enjoy spectacular landscapes, and flora and fauna. The Park is increasingly used by groups, including schools and commercial operators, for ‘adventure’ activities. Visitor services and facilities will be designed to cater for an expected increase in demand, particularly from nature-based tourism operations.

Providing for the visitorMitchell River National Park is within the Lakes and Wilderness tourism product region. A tourism plan for this region is being prepared for Tourism Victoria. The Park is seen as contributing to the large range of natural and adventure opportunities in East Gippsland.

Mitchell River National Park will continue to give visitors a sense of remoteness. Visitor management for the Park will provide for the three distinctive visitor experiences described above and enhance visitors’ enjoyment of the Park’s values. An important factor in visitor

management will be maintaining the sense of remoteness at the same time as providing appropriate facilities and activities at key sites.

Carrying capacities will be determined as necessary to help protect natural values, to reduce impacts on the river corridor and to maintain the visitor experience, particularly in the more remote parts of the Park. Existing facilities and services will be improved; the more significant developments will include:

· a range of new walking tracks to view key features;

· new facilities at day use areas;

· interpretation at key sites such as the Den of Nargun.

Aims

· Provide for visitors in accordance with the above overview of future management for visitors.

· Provide opportunities, quality services and facilities for visitor use and enjoyment of the Park.


· Permit recreational activities in accordance with table 2.

· Provide and maintain facilities and services which highlight, but are in keeping with, the area’s distinctive character (sections5.2 and 5.3, and tables 3 and 4).

· Apply current market survey findings on visitor profiles, patterns of behaviour, expectations and preferences to assist in park management.

· Establish a program to determine appropriate levels of recreational activity consistent with protecting visitor experiences and park values.

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TABLE 2 SUMMARY OF RECREATION ACTIVITIES

ACTIVITY

1

MANAGEMENT ZONES

2 3

SECTION

Amateur/Line Fishing1 N/A YC N/A 5.2.3

Boating — non motorised includes canoeing and raftingBoating — motorised craft

N/A

No

Yes

No

N/A

No

5.2.3

5.2.3

Orienteering/Rogaining Yes Yes Yes -

Rock climbing and abseiling No YC No 5.2.9

Picnicking Yes Yes Yes 5.2.2

Bushwalking Yes Yes Yes 5.2.2, 5.2.4

Pleasure driving YC YC YC 5.2.1

4WD driving YC YC YC 5.2.1

Bike riding YC YC YC 5.2.6

Camping YC YC YC 5.2.5

Lighting of Fires2 YC YC YC 5.2.5

Horse riding YC YC No 5.2.7

Walking or exercising dogs No No No -

Firewood collection3 YC YC YC 5.2.5

Deer hunting4 YC YC No 5.2.8

1 In accordance with Fisheries Regulations2 In accordance with Fire Regulations3 Only for use in the Park4 Permitted east of Mitchell River during most of the year

Management Zones: No Not appropriate1 Conservation Yes Appropriate2 Conservation and Recreation YC conditional — refer to relevant section3 Recreation Development for details

N/A Not applicable

· Encourage all visitors to adopt minimal impact techniques and to adhere to codes of conduct appropriate to their activity.

· Monitor visitor numbers and use to ensure adequate provision of facilities consistent with appropriate types and levels of use.

· Liaise with State and local tourism bodies to co-ordinate tourism initiatives in the Gippsland Lakes and Hinterland with park management.

· Support and complement appropriate tourism opportunities in the region.

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5.2 Visitor recreation activities and facilities

5.2.1 AccessAccess within the Park is by roads and tracks (vehicle and walking), or by river. Each type of access needs specific management.

There is a network of 4WD and 2WD roads and tracks which enables visitors to enjoy the Park.

The Mitchell River divides the Park into two distinct sections. There is no 2WD river crossing within the Park, the nearest being (to the south) at Glenaladale and (to the north) at Dargo. There are therefore two separate access approaches to the Park, most visitor use occurring on the western side of the Mitchell River. Existing road signage promotes access to this area.

Road access to the three major recreational areas, the Den of Nargun, Billy Goat Bend and Angusvale, is via a series of 2WD roads (figure 3). Currently there is no single 2WD road loop linking all these areas within the Park.

Road access to the eastern side of the Park is via a system of dead-end tracks. Three tracks, Glenaladale Weir Track, Adam Track and Hortons Track, give access to the Mitchell River.

There are relatively few easy access points to the Mitchell River. This is one of the features of the area which give the recreational user a sense of remoteness. All tracks that give access to the Mitchell River are vital for public safety and rescue.

Aims

· Provide for a range of access in the Park.

· Rationalise the track system so as to service visitor and management access requirements efficiently and attractively.


· Permit and maintain roads and tracks in the Park in accordance with table 3 and figure 3.

· Establish a 2WD circuit within the Park, linking the Den of Nargun, Billy Goat Bend and Angusvale, by upgrading sections of the Mitchell Road.

· Liaise with the Victoria Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs over temporary, seasonal and any necessary permanent public road closures.

· Liaise with Southern Rural Water about road maintenance for Mitchell Dam Road.

· Negotiate with the Shire of East Gippsland regarding maintenance standards and responsibility for Wattle Creek, Sandy Creek, Lamberts Flat Track, Billy Goat Bend, Waller and Nargun roads.

· Assess the adequacy of road and track signage, particularly to main visitor areas, and take action as required.

· Liaise with VicRoads to ensure adequate signposting from the Princes Highway.

5.2.2 Day visitsAbout half the visitors to the Park are day visitors (approximately 28 000 day visitors per year). The most popular areas are the Den of Nargun and Billy Goat Bend (figure 3). Conflicts can arise between day visitors and campers, particularly at Billy Goat Bend where facilities are shared.

The Den of Nargun area has an attractive picnic site and offers short walks away from camping areas.

Existing and proposed visitor facilities are summarised in table 4.

Aim

· Establish and maintain day visitor facilities which enhance visitor enjoyment and are consistent with protecting park values.


· Provide facilities in accordance with table 4 and figure 3.

The Park visit TABLE 3 MANAGEMENT OF ROADS AND TRACKS

ROAD OR TRACK CLASS COMMENTS/USES STATUS MANAGEMENT ACTION/RATIONALECURRENT PROPOSED

Mitchell Dam Rd* 1 Access to Angusvale. Maintained by Southern Rural Water.

O O Unchanged.

Rock Creek Tk 3 Access to Rock Ck, Slalom Rapid & Mitchell River Walking Track.

O O Unchanged. Track occasionally floods, access will be reassessed after each flood.

Angusvale Tk 3 Access to Rock Ck, Slalom Rapid & Mitchell River Walking Track.

O O Unchanged.

Mitchell Rd 3 Access from Angusvale to Billy Goat Bend & Mitchell River Walking Track.

O O Upgrade to class 2.

Billy Goat Bend Rd* 2 Access to Billy Goat Bend & Mitchell River Walking Track. Maintained by Shire of East Gippsland.


Bull Creek Divide Tk 3 Access along Park boundary. O O Unchanged.Waller Rd* 2 Access from Den of Nargun to Billy Goat Bend.

Maintained by Shire of East Gippsland.O O Upgrade to class 1.

West Weir Tk 3 Access to Mitchell River Walking Track. MVO MVO Unchanged.Nargun Rd 1 Access to Den of Nargun. Maintained by Shire

of East Gippsland outside Park.O O Unchanged.

Alexanders Rd 3 Access to Lambert Flat and along River. Access for Mitchell River Water Board to supply facility.

O O Unchanged.

Old Weir Tk #1 3 Access to Glenaladale Weir site and picnic and camping area.


Old Weir Tk #2 3 Alternative access to Glenaladale Weir site. O MVO Track includes extensive rock walling and cannot be upgraded.

Sandys Lookout Tk 3 Dead end. O O Unchanged.Wattle Creek Rd* 1 Maintained by Shire of East Gippsland to Park

boundary.O O Unchanged.

* Class:

Not part of ParkStatus:

1 All vehicle - all weather MVO Management vehicles and walkers only2 All vehicle - dry weather only O Open to public vehicles3 4WD - dry weather only W Walkers onlyA2: A physically well defined track up to 1.5 m in width,

well drained with a good surface. Surface may besufficiently firm and barrier - free to provide accessto minor facilities for visitors with limited mobility.

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Table 3 (cont.)

ROAD OR TRACK CLASS COMMENTS/USES STATUS MANAGEMENT ACTION/RATIONALE

CURRENT PROPOSED

Adam Tk 3 Access to Mitchell River. O O Unchanged.Scrubby Creek Tk 3 Fire management, recreation. O O Unchanged.Bald Hill Tk 3 Forms part of 4WD recreational driving loop. O O Unchanged.Roaring Mag Rd 3 4WD track along ridge toward Mitchell River. O O Unchanged.Sandy Ridge Track 3 Fire management, recreation. O O Unchanged.Calvi Tk 3 Access to Horton Tk and informal camping area. O O Unchanged.Calvi Hill Tk 3 Trigonometric station access. O MVO Close steep section north of Calvi Hill.

Maintain southern section.Horton Tk 3 Access to Mitchell River and 4WD ford. O O Improve drainage.Sandy Creek Rd* 1 Access to east boundary. Maintained by Shire of

East Gippsland.O O Unchanged. Road is very rough and

requires maintenance work.Lamberts Flat Track* 3 Access to southern part of Park. Maintained by

Shire of East Gippsland.O O Unchanged.

Mitchell River Walking Track

B-D Walking track from Woolshed Ck to Angusvale. W W Upgrade to Category B standard where necessary.

Bluff Lookout Track B Access to view point near Den of Nargun. W W Unchanged.Den of Nargun B Circuit walking track. W W Unchanged.

B: A well defined track, benched and drained. Up to 1 m wide, rougher than Category A and may have some steep sections (gradient greater than 1 in 12).

D: An undefined track with no basic construction.

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20


TABLE 4 EXISTING AND PROPOSED RECREATION FACILITIES

SITE PARKINFO

TOILET FIRE PLACE

CAMP PICNIC TABLE

SHELTER WALK TRACK

LOOK OUT

Angusvale P E P E P N E NRock Creek P E E E N N E NPicnic Area N N E N E N E NBilly Goat Bend (Amphitheatre)

P P E E E N E E

Canoe campsite (near Den of Nargun)

N E E E E N E N

Den of Nargun E E E N E E E EGlenaladale Weir Site

P N P N P N N N

E - existing facilities, P - proposed facilities, N - not proposed

· Improve the design of the Den of Nargun picnic ground through rationalisation of parking, and improving the quality of facilities.

· Provide day visitor facilities at Billy Goat Bend separate from the camping area.

· Provide low key picnic facilities at Angusvale when and if demand requires (when incorporated into the Park, section 7.2).

5.2.3 River useThe Mitchell River is becoming increasingly popular for rafting, canoeing, fishing, camping and bushwalking. Little is known about the impacts of this increasing use. The River is renowned as one of the best white-water experiences available: the area above the Slalom Rapids is rated as one of the best in Victoria, and the section below the rapids one of the best in Australia (LCC 1991). In addition the Slalom Rapids, consisting of a series of chutes that link together to create a 200 m long canoe slalom course, is the venue for the State championships and is one of many highlights of the trip down the River

The limited number of formal camping sites along the Mitchell River Gorge, and their increasing use, have the potential to degrade the spectacular River and visitor experiences.

The use of motorised watercraft, including power boats, power skis and hovercraft, is not permitted in the Park, and would diminish the sense of remoteness which visitors seek.

Aims

· Minimise visitor impacts on rivers, streams and the riparian environment within the Park.

· Preserve the remote setting and ‘adventure’ experience of the Mitchell River trip.


· Monitor the impacts of the current level of river use, evaluate, and refine management actions as required.

· Develop and promote a ‘Code of Conduct’ for use of the Mitchell River with emphasis on:· considering the numbers of visitors on

the River at any one time;· taking rubbish home;· human waste disposal;

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· camping guidelines.

· Promote public awareness of safety precautions and practices when river trips are undertaken.

· Permit fishing in the Mitchell River.

· Continue not to permit the use of motorised watercraft, including power boats, personal water craft and hovercraft.

5.2.4 BushwalkingA number of tracks in the Park allow for overnight and day walks on both formed walking tracks and vehicle tracks. Walking off-track is also permitted.

Key walks include the popular Mitchell River walking track, which includes the Gorge; Bluff walking track; and the short circuit walk to the Den of Nargun (table 3 and figure 3).

The Park is used by bushwalkers of varying capabilities.

A walking track from Rock Creek to Woolshed Creek is an easy overnight hike. This track is extremely popular with school groups. It follows the River over some steep terrain and offers many spectacular views of the gorges and the River and its rapids.

There is interest in extending the Mitchell River Walking Track.

Aim

· Provide a range of opportunities for walking while minimising impacts on park values.


· Maintain existing walking tracks in accordance with table 3.

· Investigate the extension of the Mitchell River Walking Track.

5.2.5 CampingThe Park provides opportunities for vehicle- based, walker-based and river-based camping. There are few formal camping areas in the Park and the majority of camping is dispersed. The

opportunity to camp in remote areas, particularly as part of a journey down the River, is one of the Park’s attractions.

The lighting of fires in the Park is permitted in the fireplaces provided and where dispersed camping is permitted along the River and in the Land Use Designation area B.

Adjacent commercial camping opportunities provide fully serviced camping for visitors not wishing to camp within the Park.

Aim

· Provide opportunities for a variety of camping experiences but minimise impacts on park values.


· Permit and maintain camping facilities in accordance with table 4.

· Do not permit camping within 20 metres of river and stream banks (section 4.4).

· Highlight the importance of water quality to campers and the importance of human waste disposal (section 4.4).

· Continue to allow dispersed camping at existing sites along the River and Mitchell River Walking track (from 20 to 100 m from the River) and in the Land Use Designation area B except the Special Protection Areas.

· Allow fires only in fireplaces provided (figure 3) or where dispersed camping is permitted in accordance with the fire regulations.

· Regularly monitor the condition of camping areas in the Park, particularly informal campsites along walking tracks and the River, to ensure that recreation experiences and natural features are not compromised.

· Continue to allow the collection of fallen timber for use in campfires in the Park, provided that natural values are not compromised.

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· Liaise with Southern Rural Water regarding improving camping facilities at Angusvale.

5.2.6 Bike ridingTouring by mountain bike is becoming increasing popular and the Park offers a variety of terrains. All roads and vehicular tracks open to the public within the Park are suitable for cycling.

Aim

· Provide opportunities for cyclists, consistent with conservation objectives.


· Allow cycling on all roads and vehicle tracks open to the public (table 3).

· Do not permit bike riding on the walking tracks or on MVO tracks.

5.2.7 Horse ridingThe current level of Park use by horse riders is low. Horses can spread introduced plants and damage vegetation.

Currently there is no provision for camping with horses in the Park.

Aim

· Provide opportunities for horse riding, while minimising impacts on park values and other users.


· Permit horse riding on roads and vehicle tracks open to the public.

· Encourage use of the Horse Riding Code.

· Investigate the feasibility of allowing camping with horses at Angusvale. Do not permit camping with horses in any other areas of the Park.

5.2.8 Deer huntingThe Park is regularly used for hunting of Sambar. Hunting takes place east of the Mitchell River under the National Parks Act

from 15 February to 15 December inclusive. Hunting is by stalking only and the use of dogs is not permitted.

Aim

· Provide opportunities for deer hunting in the Park consistent with conservation objectives.


· Continue to permit deer hunting in Land Use Designation area B (east of the Mitchell River) by stalking, on a seasonal basis only (figure 2).

· Monitor and assess the level of deer hunting activity in the Park.

· Evaluate the impact of Sambar on the Park, in particular on Dry Rainforest and Warm Temperate Rainforest.

· Liaise with hunting organisations to improve knowledge of deer populations in the Park.

5.2.9 Rock climbing and abseilingRock climbing and abseiling in the Park are becoming more popular. The major users are school groups and scouting groups, and increasing numbers of commercial tourism operators.

There are a limited number of accessible rock faces within the Park. A variety of plants and animals which occupy or take refuge on the cliffs, gorges, outcrops and escarpments require protection.

Most rock climbing and abseiling is on the rock face site just inside the Park boundary adjacent to Hutchings Track and to a lesser extent on the rock face site adjacent to Angusvale Track. Access to the site adjacent to Hutchings Track is via the walking track from the Den of Nargun picnic area.

Aim

· Provide opportunities for rock climbing and abseiling, while minimising impacts on park values.

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· Permit abseiling and rock climbing only at the sites adjacent to Angusvale and Hutchings Tracks.

· Encourage users to use clean climbing techniques and to conform to codes of conduct relevant to their activities.

· Monitor the effect of abseiling and rock- climbing on vegetation used as belay points.

· Liaise with climbing groups to promote safe use of the Park and help protect park values.

5.3 Visitor information, interpretation and education

Mitchell River National Park lacks interpretation facilities to enhance visitors’ experience and provoke interest in and appreciation of its natural and cultural values.

The Park offers opportunities to develop themes related to its diverse environments, cultural history, spectacular landscapes, Heritage River qualities, and management of the area.

An interpretation strategy is required to identify key themes and locations for information and interpretation. Existing brochures require rationalisation and updating.

Aims

· Enhance the visitors’ Park experience through a greater understanding and appreciation of cultural and natural values.

· Orientate visitors to the Park and its features.


· Develop and implement an interpretation strategy for the Park which:

· identifies key themes for major visitor nodes and cultural sites (section 3.6);

· identifies locations of appropriate interpretative facilities, including for the protection of the Heritage River corridor;

· aims to increase visitor involvement in park protection;

· identifies walking track entry points and appropriate trail material.

· In accordance with the interpretation strategy, develop appropriate interpretation at main visitor areas such as the Den of Nargun, Billy Goat Bend, Angusvale and the Glenaladale Weir site, and install adequate signage throughout the Park.

· Provide adequate visitor orientation, information and safety messages at key visitor areas.

· Establish and implement monitoring and maintenance schedules for all interpretive facilities.

· Undertake regular evaluation of information and interpretation programs related to the Park.

5.4 Commercial tourism operations

Mitchell River National Park forms part of a tourism ‘hub’ in the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland Tourism Strategy (CNR 1989) and plays an important role in the provision of regional tourism opportunities.

An increasing number of people are using the experience, equipment and organisational aspects of commercial operators to enjoy the Park.

Commercial operators offer a range of adventure activities, including:

· rafting and canoeing;

· 4WD tours;

· bushwalking and bicycle riding;

· bush craft and survival skills;

· rock climbing and abseiling.

Large groups have the potential to cause environmental or social impacts because of their size and/or regular use of particular areas or routes. However, well organised and well managed tour groups can help minimise

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24


impacts on the Park’s values and increase awareness and enjoyment of its natural features and values.

Aims

· Provide opportunities for commercial tourism services consistent with park management objectives.

· Preserve the remote nature and ‘adventure’ experience of the Mitchell River trip.


· Ensure that commercial operators comply with regulations, Parks Victoria guidelines and permit conditions.

· Provide commercial operators with park information and encourage them to assist in the protection of park values and facilities, e.g. by promoting minimal impact touring, walking and camping practices.

· Liaise with commercial tour operators in the development and promotion of a ‘Code of Conduct’ for use of the Mitchell River (section 5.2.3).

· Monitor sites and routes used by commercial tours to evaluate adverse impacts or conflicts with other user groups, and take appropriate action.

5.5 Public safetyThere are inherent dangers and risks for visitors undertaking activities associated with remote locations, particularly water-based activities. As there are few facilities once the visitor leaves the main visitor areas, it is important for visitors undertaking self-reliant activities to be appropriately prepared and equipped before setting out.

The Victoria Police is responsible for search and rescue operations. Within the Park such operations would usually involve Parks Victoria, the State Emergency Service and other groups under police supervision.

Aims

· Increase public awareness of the potential dangers involved in undertaking adventurous activities in the Park.

· Promote and encourage safe practices among visitors.


· Encourage visitors to seek information on any activities they intend to undertake in the Park.

· Encourage visitors to inform a relative or friend of their intentions when undertaking adventure or overnight activities. Promote the ‘Let someone know before you go’ practice.

· Ensure that staff are adequately trained and available to assist in search and rescue and/or emergency situations.

Community awareness and involvement


6 COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT

6.1 Friends and volunteersCurrently there is no Friends of the Mitchell River National Park group, although a number of groups from various backgrounds have either been involved, or expressed interest in participating, in volunteer work.

Interested groups and individual volunteers have the potential to make valuable contributions to park management, and their assistance will be encouraged.

Aim

· Encourage volunteer involvement in managing the Park.


· Encourage the formation of, and support, a Friends group for the Park.

· Develop and evaluate a long-term volunteer strategy.

6.2 Community awareness and Park neighbours

Mitchell River National Park is predominantly surrounded by State forest. Freehold neighbours on the northern and southern boundaries are mainly involved in agriculture. Some adjacent land has considerable conservation value. A nearby caravan and camping park and a farm resort direct considerable numbers of their clients to the Park.

Private landholders’ main interest in the Park relates to the management of fire, pest plant and animal control, and recreational opportunities.

A number of local groups, including schools, scouts and field naturalists, use the Park for a variety of outdoor recreation and educational activities.

As Park managers, Parks Victoria will endeavour to encourage sound management actions by Park neighbours. Neighbours need to be made aware of their responsibilities as neighbours of the Park.

There are major opportunities for the community to become involved in management related activities, particularly in the control of environmental weeds. Local schools could also assist in collecting data, for example on water quality.

Aims

· Increase community awareness of the Park’s values and management activities.

· Encourage conservation and sound land management practices on private land adjoining the Park.


· Liaise with local community groups and land owners and, as appropriate, involve them in relevant aspects of planning for and managing the Park.

· Apply, and encourage the application of, the Good Neighbour Policy to management issues on or near the boundary of the Park.

· Promote conservation and sound management principles to landholders in the catchment.

· Encourage private property owners adjoining the Park to protect existing native vegetation through the application of voluntary conservation covenants and involvement in the Land for Wildlife scheme.

Other issues

26


7 OTHER ISSUES

7.1 Authorised uses

7.1.1 Public utilitiesA trigonometric station on Calvi Hill is occasionally used by the Office of Surveyor General (Department of Natural Resources and Environment), and sight lines to other peaks are regularly cleared of regrowth.

East Gippsland Water operate a pumping station at the southern end of the Park. This station diverts water from the River for urban water supply.

An overhead power line supplying power to Dargo and the surrounding area runs along the western boundary of the Park.

Aims

· Minimise the impact of public utilities in the Park.

· Ensure appropriate use and licensing of existing public utilities and occupancies.


· Ensure that existing and future public utilities are covered by a Section 27 consent in accordance with Parks Victoria guidelines.

· Ensure that any new proposals for public utilities in the Park or on its boundaries are assessed for their landscape impacts, especially from major viewing points, and do not detract from natural values.

· Liaise with Eastern Energy on access to and maintenance of the transmission line and easement, particularly to reduce the visual impact of the transmission line.

· Liaise with Southern Rural Water to investigate developing an interpretative sign at the pumping station regarding water supply and catchment management.

7.1.2 ApicultureA maximum number of 10 bee sites is allowed to be used for apiculture in the Park at any one time.

Apiarists require sites with good access that are unlikely to be disturbed.

Lack of road access and maintenance of temporary bee sites are major constraints on apiculture in the Park.

There is concern that introduced honey bees may adversely affect native flora and fauna.

Aim

· Provide for apiculture in accordance with LCC recommendations and consistent with protecting the Park’s values.


· Permit use of a maximum of 10 bee sites in the Park in accordance with Parks Victoria guidelines.

· Encourage long-term research on the ecological impact of honey bees.

7.2 Boundaries and adjacent useAngusvale (covering approximately 174 ha), on the Mitchell River to the north of the Park, is owned by Southern Rural Water, and managed as part of the Park.

The LCC in 1983 recommended that if the area is not required for water storage purposes, it should be added to Mitchell River National Park. The LCC also recommend that Crown land adjacent to Angusvale should be managed as part of the Park.

With the improved access to the River provided by the construction of the road to the Angusvale site, there has been a considerable increase in the number of visitors using Angusvale.

Adjacent land is managed through the planning schemes of East Gippsland Shire.

Adjacent land uses are generally not having a major impact on the Park. The Park’s

Other Issues


boundaries are surrounded by native forest on public land. Freehold land abuts the Park along the northern and southern boundaries.

Timber harvesting along the eastern and western boundary of the Park is an ongoing operation. This use could impact on landscape values viewed from within the Park.

Aims

· Consolidate Park boundaries where possible.

· Minimise conflicts between park values and surrounding land.


· Liaise with Southern Rural Water to formalise management and planning of Angusvale.

· Manage Angusvale as part of the Park, and seek to include it in the Park if it is not required for water storage purposes.

· Seek to include in the Park the Crown land abutting its northern boundary.

· Prepare a detailed site plan for the development of the Angusvale camping area.

· Liaise with the local Shire and the Forests Service to minimise impacts from developments and activities proposed for adjacent land.

Implementation

28


8 IMPLEMENTATION

A three-year rolling implementation program will be prepared for the Park to ensure efficient implementation of this Plan. Priorities for management are identified in table 5 as an initial step in this process.

TABLE 5 PRIORITY MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES SECTION IN PLAN


3.2, 3.3Develop strategies for significant species in the Park.

Park protection

Provide input into a fire management sub-plan as part of revision ofBairnsdale Fire Plan. 4.1

Develop and implement a pest plant and animal control strategy. 4.2

Improve road surface and drainage to reduce soil loss and improve waterquality. 5.2.1, 4.3

Provide information about visitors about camping and waste disposal, toprotect water quality. 4.4

The Park visit

Improve day visitor facilities at Billy Goat Bend and the Den of Nargun. 5.2.2

Provide facilities at Angusvale. 5.2.2

Develop and promote a Code of Conduct for river use. 5.2.3, 5.4

Increase awareness of safety precautions for river trips. 5.2.3

Develop and implement an interpretation strategy. 5.3

Encourage commercial tour operators and provide with park information. 5.4

Community awareness and involvement

Develop and evaluate a long-term volunteer strategy. 6.1

Monitoring and research

Establish monitoring sites in Dry and Warm Temperate Rainforests. 3.2

Monitor populations and habitat of Australian Grayling and AustralianBass. 3.3

Monitor river use and associated camping. 5.2.3

Other

Liaise with Southern Rural Water to formalise management of Angusvale.7.2

References


REFERENCES

Cameron, D. 1992, A portrait of Victoria’s rainforests: distribution, diversity and definition. In: Gell, P. and Mercer, D. (eds). Victoria’s Rainforests: Perspectives on Definition, Classification and Management, Monash Publications in Geography No. 41, Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Monash University, Victoria.

Cameron, D. in prep., Rainforest sites of significance, report for Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

CNR 1989, Gippsland Hinterland Tourism Strategy, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Victorian Tourism Association and Ministry for Planning and Environment.

DCE 1990, Bairnsdale Region Fire Protection Plan, Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria.

Dunn, K. 1990, Candalides absimilis (Felder), in Victoria, Vic. Ent. 20, No. 2.

Forbes, S.J., Gullan, P.K. & Walsh, N.G.1981, Sites of Botanical Significance in East Gippsland, Environmental Studies Division, Ministry for Conservation, Victoria.

Howitt, A.W. 1875, Notes on the Devonian rocks of North Gippsland, Third report of progress, Geological Survey of Victoria, pp 214 - 220.

LCC 1982, Report on the Gippsland Lakes Hinterland Area, Land Conservation Council, Victoria.

LCC 1983, Final Recommendations Gippsland Lakes Hinterland Area, Land Conservation Council, Victoria.

LCC 1991, Rivers and Streams Special Investigations Final Recommendations, Land Conservation Council, Victoria.

McRae-Williams, M.S., Rosengren, N.J. & Kaemers, S.M. 1981, Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance in East Gippsland, Victoria, Environmental Studies Division, Ministry for Conservation, Victoria.

NPS 1995, National Parks and Conservation Reserves, Guidelines and Procedures Manual, National Parks Service, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

NRE 1997, Heritage Rivers and Natural Catchment Areas, Draft Management Plans Volume 3 - Gippsland, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

NRE 1998, Threatened vertebrate fauna in Victoria - 1998, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

NRE database 1998a, Atlas of Victorian Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

NRE database 1998b, Flora Information Systems, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

Pearce, N. & van Waarden, N. 1988, Report on the Mitchell River Survey, September 12- 14 1988, Victoria Archaeological Survey, Ministry for Planning and Environment, Victoria.

Pickering, M. 1979, Archaeological Survey Report, Mitchell River Dam Project, State Rivers and Water Supply Commission, Victoria.

Personal communicationsCampbell, M. 1996, Ranger, Mitchell River

National Park, Parks Victoria.

Martin, R. 1996, Bairnsdale Field Naturalists Club.

Reside, J. 1996, former Parks, Flora and Fauna, Bairnsdale, NRE.


Appendices

APPENDIX I SITES OF GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

SITE SIGNIFICANCE FEATURES

Mitchell River Gorge between Cobbannah Creek & Raymond Creek

State One of the best exposures of the upper units of the Avon River group of sediments, and contains several fossil sites.

The gorge is a prominent feature which displays the characteristic incised nature of the major south-flowing river of central-east Victoria.

Sandy Creek State Representative section displaying the lithology of the upper members of the Tabberabbera Formation exposed in Sandy Creek and its tributaries. Includes rich fossil sites.

Tabberabbera (part)

State Part of a site displaying varying lithology and often complex structure, including representative sedimentary sequences of the Tabberabbera Formation and Wentworth Group, intrusive dykes and features of geomorphological interest.

The Wellington rhyolites are also well exposed in the bed of the Mitchell River at the slalom rapids.

Den of Nargun Local The Den of Nargun, in the gorge ofWoolshed Creek, was created by erosion of mudstone beneath more resistant sandstone.

Small caves commonly occur in the Upper Devonian – Lower Carboniferous sediments of the Mitchell River Area. The Den is the largest known example and is of particular significance for its decoration.

Source: McRae - Williams et al. (1981).


Appendices

APPENDIX II SIGNIFICANT FLORA

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS

Adiantum hispidulum Rough Maidenhair rAsplenium trichomanes Common Spleenwort rAstrotricha linearis Narrow-leaf Star-hair rBertya cunninghamii Sticky Bertya rBeyeria viscosa Pinkwood rBlechnum chambersii Lance Water-fern lBrachychiton populneus Kurrajong lCalotis lappulacea Yellow Burr-daisy lCalystegia sepium Large Bindweed lCorrea alba White Correa lDendrobium striolatum Streaked Rock-orchid rDrymophila cyanocarpa Turquoise Berry lElaeocarpus holopetalus Black Oliveberry lGahnia melanocarpa Black-fruit Saw-sedge lGalium migrans Bedstraw lGrevillea rosmarinifolia Rosemary Grevillea lHibbertia serpyllifolia Thyme Guinea-flower lHybanthus monopetalus Slender Violet-bush lIsoetes muelleri Rock Quillwort lKorthalsella rubra Jointed Mistletoe vMarsdenia flavescens Yellow Milk-vine rMentha australis River Mint lMirbelia oxylobioides Mountain Mirbelia lMuehlenbeckia rhyticarya Wrinkle-nut Lignum rOlearia glandulosa Swamp Daisy-bush lOlearia tenuifolia Thin-leaf Daisy-bush vOplismenus hirtellus Basket-grass lPassiflora cinnabarina Red Passion-flower lPhebalium squameum ssp. coriaceum Harsh Phebalium vPolyphlebium venosum Veined Bristle-fern lPolystichum formosum Broad Shield-fern rPterosylis grandiflora Cobra Greenhood rRumohra adiantiformis Leathery Shield-fern lSamolus valerandii Common Brookweed rSarcochilus australis Butterfly Orchid lSicyos australis Star Cucumber vSolanum pungetium Eastern Nightshade lVittadinia dissecta Dissected New Holland Daisy lVittadinia tenuissima Delicate New Holland Daisy v

Status (NRE database 1998b; Cameron in prep.):

l - locally significant r - rare in Victoriav - vulnerable in Victoria

Appendices


APPENDIX III SIGNIFICANT FAUNA

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS

MammalsDasyurus maculatus Spot-tailed Quoll End, LMastacomys fuscusMiniopterus schreibersii Myotis macropus Pseudomys fumeus Rhinolophus megaphyllus

Broad-toothed RatCommon Bent-wing Bat Large-footed Myotis Smoky MouseEastern Horseshoe Bat

LR (nt)Vul, L LR (nt)

End Vul, L

BirdsCalyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo Vul, LHaliaeetus leucogasterLathamus discolor Ninox strenuaTyto novaehollandiae Tyto tenebricosa Xanthomyza phrygia

White-bellied Sea-EagleSwift Parrot Powerful Owl Masked Owl Sooty OwlRegent Honeyeater

End, LV, End, L

End, L End, L Vul, L

E, CE, L

ReptilesCyclodomorphus sp. She-oak Skink rs

AmphibiansHeleioporus australiacus Giant Burrowing Frog Vul, LLitoria citropia Blue Mountains Tree Frog pv

Freshwater fishPrototroctes maraena Australian Grayling V, Vul, L

InsectsCandalides absimilis Pencilled Blue Butterfly

r1

Status (NRE 1998):

CE critically endangered in VictoriaE endangered under the Endangered Species Act 1984 (Cwlth) End endangered in VictoriaL listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act LR (nt) lower risk (near threatened) in Victoriapv recent survey data suggests that this species is potentially vulnerable in the Park rs regionally significantr1 rare in Victoria (Dunn 1990)V vulnerable under the Endangered Species Act 1984 (Cwlth) Vul vulnerable in Victoria

MITCHELL RIVER NATIONAL PARK

THE LAKES NATIONAL

ARK

'f Loch Sport

GIPPSLAND LAKES

REF CG/??2 010 10 20

SCALE Or KILC•METRES

·

COASTAL PARKMITCHELL RIVER NATIONAL PARK

Figure 1 LOCALITY

1

•

Proposed addition

Proposed addition

-Sealed Road

-Gr-av-el-R-oa-d -2W-D Track 4WD

Management Vehicles Only

(M V O)

Existing Walking Track

Conservation

Conservation/R-ecreation

Recreation Development

OVERLAYSLand use designation A

To Fcrnbank

Heritage River /Land use designation BDeer hunting

SpecialProtection Area(Includes all Warm TemperateDry Rainforest areas too small

(

REF CG/222.0:3&to be shown on the map) Q

2 3 4

Prepared by NRS Uni:, Traralgon SCALE OF KILOMET RES

Park Boundaryr-- ------,

IL ---------------1

MITCHELL RIVER NATIONAL PARKFigure 2

MANAGEMENT ZONES

mictchell river national park management...

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