plan of management - city of lithgow

Hyde Park

Reserve Hartley

April 2008

Prepared by Lithgow City Council

Plan of Management

HYDE PARK RESERVE HARTLEY PLAN OF MANAGEMENT

Hyde Park Reserve Plan of Management Prepared by March 2008 Acknowledgements Staff of the Community and Culture Division, Community and Corporate Department of Lithgow City Council prepared this plan of management with financial assistance from the NSW Department of Lands. Valuable information and comments were provided by:

NSW Department of Lands Wiradjuri Council of Elders Gundungurra Tribal Council members of the Wiradjuri & Gundungurra communities members of the local community and neighbours to the Reserve Lithgow Oberon Landcare Association Central Tablelands Rural Lands Protection Board Lithgow Rural Fire Service Upper Macquarie County Council members of the Hartley District Progress Association Helen Drewe for valuable input on the flora of Hyde Park Reserve Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Canberra Tracy Williams - for valuable input on Reserve issues & uses Department of Environment & Conservation (DECC) NW Branch Dave Noble NPWS (DECC) Blackheath DECC Heritage Unit Sydney Photographs T. Kidd

This Hyde Park Plan of Management incorporates a draft Plan of Management prepared in April 2003.

Lithgow City Council April 2008

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FOREWORD 6

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 6

PART 1 – INTRODUCTION 7

1.0 INTRODUCTION 8

1.1 PURPOSE OF A PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 8 1.2 LAND TO WHICH THE PLAN OF MANAGEMENT APPLIES 9 1.3 GENERAL RESERVE DESCRIPTION 10 1.4 BACKGROUND AND HISTORY 12 1.5 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 13 1.6 PROFILE OF STUDY AREA 14 1.7 SURROUNDING LAND USE AND REGIONAL CONTEXT 15 1.8 STRUCTURE OF THE PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 16 1.9 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION 16

PART 2 – LEGISLATION AND POLICY FRAMEWORK 17

2.0 LEGISLATION AND POLICY FRAMEWORK 18

2.1 CROWN LANDS ACT 1989 18 2.1.1 Requirements of a Plan of Management for a Crown Reserve 18 2.1.2 Use and Management of Crown Land 19 2.1.3 Principles of Crown Land Management 20 2.1.4 Plan of Management Preparation 21

2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT 1979 21 2.3 STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICIES (SEPPS) 21 2.4 REGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLANS (REPS) 21 2.5 LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLANS (LEPS) 21

2.5.1 Zoning 22 2.5.2 Land Management Purposes 22 2.5.2 Development Proposal Assessments 23

2.6 LEGISLATION AND POLICY 24 2.6.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 24 2.6.2 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 24 2.6.3 Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004 25 2.6.4 National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 25 2.6.5 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 26 2.6.6 Local Government Act 1993 26

2.7 LINKS TO OTHER PLANS AND PROGRAMS 27 2.7.1 National and Regional Programs 27 Weeds of National Significance 27 The National Weeds Strategy 27 NSW Invasive Species Plan 2007 - 2015 27 NSW Biodiversity Strategy 27 Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Action Plan 27 Hawkesbury Nepean River Health Strategy 28 Hawkesbury Nepean Draft Weeds Strategy 28

2.8 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION 28 2.9 IMPLEMENTATION 30

2.9.1 Accountability 30


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PART 3 – BASIS FOR MANAGEMENT 31

- RESERVE DESCRIPTION AND VALUES 31

3.0 BASIS FOR MANAGEMENT 32

3.0.1 Overarching Vision 32 3.0.2 Vision Statements 32 3.0.3 Heritage 33 3.0.4 Environment 33 3.0.5 Lithgow City Council Management Plan 35

3.1 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT 36 3.1.1 Reserve Characteristics 36 3.1.2 Landform, Geology and Soils 38 3.1.3 Native Vegetation 39 3.1.3.1 Significant Species 42 3.1.4 Native Fauna 45 3.1.5 Hydrology 46 3.1.6 Fire 48

3.2 CULTURAL HERITAGE 49 3.2.1 Aboriginal Heritage 49 3.2.2 Non-Aboriginal Heritage 52

3.3 LANDSCAPE VALUES AND VISUAL AMENITY 53 3.4 COMMUNITY VALUES AND SOCIAL PROFILE 54 3.5 EDUCATIONAL VALUES 55 3.6 PROGRAMS OF WORK 56

3.6.1 Historic Known Works & Activities 56 3.6.2 Planned Programs of Works 56

3.7 CURRENT & POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND USES 57 3.7.1 Surrounding Land Use and Subdivision 57 3.7.2 Reserve Access 59 3.7.3 Recreational Activities 62 3.7.4 Unrestricted Vehicle Use 65 3.7.5 Drainage, Erosion and Water Quality 67 3.7.6 Signage 69

3.8 INTRODUCED SPECIES 70 3.8.1 Plants 71 3.8.2 Animals 73 3.8.3 Insects 74 3.8.4 Fungi and Pathogens 74

PART 4 – ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES 75

4.0 ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES 76

4.1 OBJECTIVES TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE THE VALUES OF HYDE PARK RESERVE 76 4.2 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES 77

4.2.1 Landform, Geology, Soils and Water 77 4.2.2 Native Plant and Animal Conservation 78 4.2.3 Fire Management 80 4.2.4 Cultural Heritage 81 4.2.5 Visitor Use and Recreation 83 4.2.6 Future Management Opportunities 85


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PART 5 – MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 87

5. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS 88

5.1 VISION FOR PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 88 5.2 MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES 88 5.3 PROPOSED MANAGEMENT 89

5.3.1 Track Closures and Conservation Earthworks 90 5.3.2 Brushmatting 91 5.3.3 Vehicle Management 91 5.3.5 Revegetation Strategy 92

5.4 MONITORING AND REVIEW 93 5.5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS 95 5.6 REFERENCES 95

APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Noxious Weed Control Classes 96 Appendix 2: Noxious Weed Declarations for Upper Macquarie County Council 97 Appendix 3: Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 Schedules 103 Appendix 4: Key Threatening Processes 103 Appendix 5: Priority Action Statements (PAS) for Asterolasia buxifolia 104 Appendix 6: Geological Map Sheet of Hyde Park and surrounds 105 Appendix 7: Soils Landscape Map of Hyde Park and surrounds 106 Appendix 8: Media Release RBG 107 Appendix 9: Management Implications - Legislation and Planning Instruments 108 Appendix 10: Native Flora List 111 Appendix 11: Native Fauna List 113 Appendix 12: Cultural Heritage Assessment Overview 118 Appendix 13: Artefact Identification 119 Appendix 14: Selected Artefact Photos – Hyde Park Reserve 120 Appendix 15: Community Survey Summary 2007 121 Appendix 16: Summary of Written Submissions 123


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FOREWORD A Plan of Management (PoM) is a document that provides the framework for managing a land resource. It explains “why, how and by whom” the subject area should be managed. In October 2007, Council as the Corporate Trust Manager for Hyde Park Reserve began the preparation of a draft Plan of Management (DPoM), for Crown Reserves R.97 and R.95074, which have been reserved for Public Recreation and Public Purposes. Lithgow Council acknowledges the financial grant contribution provided by the Department of Lands Public Reserves Management Fund to assist with the preparation of the Plan. The principle reason for preparing the draft plan over the Reserve is to deal with issues impacting upon the area and to ensure the plan complies with the Crown Lands Act 1989. Lithgow City Council presently manages Hyde Park Reserve as a bushland reserve that supports passive recreation, including bushwalking, picnics, and swimming. The Plan of Management describes these current usages in the reserve, and will describe future planned usage and management strategies for the Reserve. After Council approves the draft plan of management and the Department of Lands considers it satisfactory, it will be, (pursuant to Cl. 35 of the Crown Land Act 1989 – Regulation), placed on public display and a notice published in the NSW Government Gazette and local newspaper. The exhibition period of the draft plan provides an opportunity for public comment. After submissions have been received and considered, it is forwarded to the Minister for Lands for adoption. Once the Minister adopts the plan, Council as Trust Manager of the Reserve should only undertake uses, activities, or developments consistent with the finalised Plan of Management.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Hyde Park Reserve is an 18ha bushland reserve on the banks of the River Lett. The Reserve is well-known throughout the local community and has historically been a popular place for swimming and passive recreation. Hyde Park Reserve has significant natural, cultural, and recreational values. Two significant populations of flora species inhabit the Reserve, as well as containing significant cultural heritage values, and associations with early Blue Mountains expeditions. Current unrestricted recreational activities have increased substantially in recent years, resulting in many of the values associated with Hyde Park Reserve being impacted upon requiring addressing and remediation. This Plan of Management aims to ensure Hyde Park Reserve retains its environmental, scenic, cultural and social values and that key issues relating to the management of the reserve are addressed. The key strategies and recommendations is summarised and outlined further in Section 4.


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Hyde Park Plan of Management Part 1 – Introduction


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1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Purpose of a Plan of Management Lithgow City Council has prepared this Plan of Management to document the key values of ‘Hyde Park Reserve’ (Crown Reserves R.97 and R.95074) and guide its ongoing management, future use and development. Underpinning the Plan of Management is the involvement of stakeholders and the community in determining the values that are important and how these should be protected and enhanced. Pursuant to s. 112 of the Crown Lands Act 1989, Council has notified the Minister of its intention to prepare a Plan of Management for the Reserve and consent to prepare the Plan of Management was granted in June 2006, with financial assistance extended from the Minister for Lands. A Plan of Management is a document available to the community to provide clear guidelines for the management of the land. A Plan of Management establishes directions for planning, resource management and maintenance of public land and is intended for use by Council staff and for the information of the public in general. Methods used by council to gain information for this document included:

• A review of relevant literature • Community consultation, and

• Utilizing specialist knowledge from relevant agencies and stakeholders.

The planned outcomes of the plan are to:

• Provide an inventory of environmental, social and economic values; • Provide a link to policies and statutes that influence reserve management;

• Identify environmental and cultural issues within the reserve and provide guidance for

strategic management; and

• Provide an action plan to guide natural area management works.


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1.2 Land to which the Plan of Management Applies The Plan of Management applies to crown land known as ‘Hyde Park Reserve’ which comprises Reserve 97 reserved for Public Recreation and Public Purposes notified on 10th January 1881 and is described as Lot 7011 DP 1028430 with an area of approximately 9.57 hectares. It is situated on the southern bank of the River Lett. Hyde Park also comprises Reserve 95074 reserved for Public Recreation notified on the 5th June 1981. The land is described as Lot 342 DP 41316 of 6.44ha, and Lot 7010 DP 1028429 of approximately 2.08ha, with a combined area of approximately 8.5 hectares. The total area of all three parcels is 18 hectares. An unsealed road (Hyde Park Lane), extends for approximately 1.7kms from Mid Hartley Rd to reach the Reserve, but is not a part of the Reserve (Figures 5 & 6). The trustee of R.97 is the ‘Hyde Park Reserve Trust’ appointed in the NSW Government Gazette on the 4th August 2000, whilst the ‘Lett Public Recreation Reserve Trust’ which was appointed on the 7th January 2000 in the NSW Government Gazette, is the trustee of R.95074. Lithgow City Council was appointed the Corporate Trust Manager of both of the Trusts as notified in the NSW Government Gazette #25 on the 18th February 2000. Lithgow City Council is responsible for the care, control and management of the Reserve under Section 92 of the Crown Lands Act 1989. Hyde Park Reserve is shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: ‘Hyde Park Reserve’ crown land parcels on the northern and southern banks of the

River Lett

The current boundaries of the southern section of Hyde Park Reserve have historic incursions from both the neighbouring land and the Reserve into each other’s properties. Historic clearing and the installation of fence-lines have delineated incorrect boundaries between the two properties. This has resulted in a section of what is considered to be part of Hyde Park, belonging to the neighbour, and areas under pasture being a part of the Reserve. Opportunities exist to redress and resolve this issue, outlined in section 4.2.6.


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1.3 General Reserve Description Hyde Park Reserve is located 1.8kms to the northeast of Hartley NSW in the Lithgow Local Government Area (LGA) in the Parish of Lett, County of Cook. Hyde Park Reserve is located on the northern and southern banks of the Lett River within the broader Coxs River catchment (Figures 1, 4 & 14) 15 km to the east of Lithgow township. The Coxs River catchment drains from a series of creeks beginning in the northeast from Mt Victoria and Dargan/Bell flowing into the River Lett in the Hartley Valley and then into the Coxs River. These headwaters of the catchment drain from escarpment areas that bound the Hartley Valley before flowing into the River Lett. The site is located at the north eastern end of the Coxs’ River catchment at an altitude of approximately 750-800m above sea level, with land areas covered by the Topographic Map: Hartley 8930-4-N. The reserve is accessed by an unsealed length of Crown Road, beginning at the property named “TullyDonnell” which is 500m from the Great Western Highway off the Mid Hartley Road. This 1.7km narrow road is tree-lined and fenced and runs between paddocks and sub-divided properties, to a previously gated fence that is the entrance to the reserve. Hyde Park Reserve is a well-vegetated bushland reserve, with no formal infrastructure or facilities. The reserve is fenced along its entire boundary, with some breaches on the east and western boundaries. The River Lett flows through the reserve for a length of approximately 700m, and has at least one deep pocket of water popular for swimming within a small rocky gorge. Adjacent landholders on the northern bank have fenced paddocks, some distance back from the river with the steep terrain appearing to restrict stock incursions into the reserve. Locals and tourists use the reserve primarily for swimming throughout warmer months, as well as camping and picnicking, which over the last decade has accelerated greatly due to recent subdivisions within the Hartley Valley, the removal of stock and gate, unrestricted access, and increased local knowledge.

Figure 2: The rocky granite gorge on the

River Lett flowing downstream into the

swimming hole.


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Figure 3: The swimming hole at Hyde Park on the River Lett is a popular location for swimming through the warmer months of the year, and visiting at other times due to the stunning scenery and idyllic setting.

1.4 Background and History Date Event

10th January 1881

R. 97 (lot 7011 DP 1028430) Southern side notified for Public Purposes and Public Recreation.

1897

Origins of reserve name unknown. Reserve named Hyde Park on an 1897 map (earliest sighted to date)

5th June 1981

R.95074 (lot 342 DP 41316, lot 7010 DP 1028429) northern side notified for Public Recreation

1985-1997

‘Permissive Occupancy Lease Agreement’ granted. The Reserve was gated and signposted throughout this period, and periodically grazed.

March 1987

Lease sought by then NE property owner for vehicle access via Hyde Park Lane

March 1987 Lease refused by Lands, dedication of road sought by Lands from Council

March 1987 Proposed dedication of road Proposal for Hyde Park to form part of a broader proposed ‘Lithgow Regional Park’ (incorporating escarpment lands from Dargan through to Mt York)

1999

Grevillea rosemarinifolia as identified in 1817 confirmed by Royal Botanic Gardens as occurring in the Reserve

7th January 2000 Trustee of R.95074 (lot 342 DP 41316, lot 7010 DP 1028429) ‘Lett Public Recreation Reserve Trust’ appointed in NSW Government Gazette

January 2000

Department of Lands/Lithgow City Council engage Upper Macquarie County Council to undertake weed control through a Crown Lands grant for Blackberry control

18th February 2000

Lithgow City Council officially appointed as the Corporate Trust Manager responsible for the ‘care and control’ of Hyde Park Reserve

4th August 2000 Trustee of R.97 (lot 7011 DP 1028430) ‘Hyde Park Reserve Trust’ appointed in NSW Government Gazette

2000-2003/4 Hyde Park Working Party formed

2001 Asterolasia buxifolia rediscovered in the reserve after being presumed extinct since it was first described

October 2001

13 page report prepared by senior staff from the Royal Botanic Gardens in relation to threatened flora of Hyde Park

2002 First round of subdivisions backing onto Hyde Park Lane Crown Road approved

April 2003 10 page draft plan of management prepared by John Bayliss – Head Librarian for Lithgow City Council

September 2003

Council applies for grant/loan funding of $18,000 for the preparation and production of a Plan of Management for the Reserve

2005

Landcare/Council grant application for bush regeneration works and weed control for Blackberry. Approved and undertaken

September 2005 Minister for Lands approves grant and loan to council to prepare PoM

October 2005 Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) requests approval from Council for the installation of a gate and fencing to be funded by them

June 2006

Minister for Lands, following advice from Lithgow council, withdraws loan offer of $8,000, approves grant funds of $10,000 to prepare a PoM (Council offering to provide the $8,000 equivalent of ‘in-kind’).

August 2006

12 lot subdivision approved on adjacent property on eastern boundary to Hyde Park Reserve. Five of these have River frontage and access.

2005

In partnership with Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, application made for River Lett Biodiversity Improvement and Enhancement Project ($150,000), project approved for components on Londonderry, Hyde Park, Hartley and Hassans Walls Reserves.

October 2007 Draft PoM commenced December 2007 Public Meeting held at Hyde Park Reserve Dec 07 – Jan 08 Public exhibition period of Draft plan

March 2008 Draft Plan finalised and approved by Lithgow City Council and Dpt. of Lands Table 1: Historic timeline of known and significant dates


1.5 Statement of Significance The intrinsic values of Hyde Park Reserve are considerable, with its prime attractions including the scenic location, quiet atmosphere and large water hole. The major attraction today is its use for swimming, social occasions such as family and community gatherings and for passive recreation in a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing environment. The Reserve has significant natural and cultural heritage, and recreational values. Two significant populations of flora species inhabit the Reserve, as well as significant indigenous values, and associations with many early botanic expeditions crossing the Blue Mountains.

Figure 4: 1915 Parish Map of the Hartley Valley incorporating “Hyde Park Reserve”

HyRe

Hartley

Vale 2kms

Mt York

Mt Victoria 4kms

Lithgow

18kms

Hartley Historic Site

Figure 5: Location of Hyde Park Reserve in the Hartley Valley


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1.6 Profile of Study Area A description of Hyde Park Reserve, its related and existing features and management is summarised in Table 2. Figure 5 illustrates the visible natural features of the Reserve.

Reserve Name:

‘Hyde Park Reserve’

Reserve Address:

Hyde Park Lane, via Mid Hartley Rd Hartley NSW 2790. (Parish of Hartley, County of Cook). On the River Lett.

Reserve/s Parcels:

Reserve 97 reserved for Public Recreation and Public Purposes notified on 10th January 1881; Lot 7011 DP 1028430 Reserve 95074 reserved for Public Recreation notified on the 5th June 1981; Lot 342 DP 41316 and Lot 7010 DP 1028429

Zoning: Rural General (1a) Lithgow City LEP 1994 Owner:

State of New South Wales as Crown land (administered by Lithgow City Council under the Crown Lands Act 1989)

Management: Lithgow City Council appointed Corporate Trust Manager of both of the Trusts as notified in the NSW Government Gazette #25 18th February 2000.

Manager: Lithgow City Council Area: The total area of all three parcels is approximately 18 hectares Conditions of Reserve:

The reserve is remnant Woodland and considered to be in relatively good condition overall in relation to the structure of the native vegetation, however there is increasingly high incidents of activities impacting upon that structure and health (ie tree felling, vandalism, 4WD vehicles, tracks). The Reserve is fully fenced on two sides although much of the integrity of the fences has been compromised.

Assets:

Aboriginal cultural heritage relics There are no buildings or other post-colonisation constructed assets in the reserve No formal or built infrastructure is present.

Crown Road/Road Reserve:

Unformed Hyde Park Lane (1.7kms) leading to Hyde Park Reserve is not included in this plan. Lithgow City Council Policy #10.13 maintains no responsibility for the maintenance of crown roads

Current uses:

Passive recreation: picnics, walking, swimming, camping. Visual amenity as bushland, habitat and threatened species management, education and interpretation.

Current Council Maintenance:

None

Leases/licenses/ bookings:

No leases are currently held. No licenses are currently issued. A Permissive Occupancy lease agreement was issued from 1986 until October 1997, for grazing. Leases and licenses for the purposes of management and/or maintenance of the site, or any element of the site in accordance with this plan are permissible.

Income: Income from various leases/licences – N/A Caveats / easements:

N/A

Table 2: Hyde Park Reserve Detail Summary


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1.7 Surrounding Land Use and Regional Context Lithgow township has a population of 12,000, with the surrounding Local Government Area (LGA) inclusive of the broader population equalling 19,755 (2006 Census). The region has a long history of varying industries largely based around mining, power generation, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Hyde Park Reserve

Past and current land uses within the Coxs River catchment are diverse, incorporating urban, commercial, mining, rural, forestry and industrial practices and interests (Lithgow SoE 2004). The existence of these characteristics and associated land use histories, provide numerous environmental issues and challenges requiring considerable rehabilitation and restorative action.

Hyde Park Lane

A large portion of the LGA, approximately 45%, consists of National Parks and Nature Reserves, whilst 25% is managed by State Forests. These land uses contribute significantly to the total cover of remnant native vegetation, which covers approximately 65% of the LGA. Farming and agriculture account for approx. 30% of land use in the LGA (Lithgow SoE 2006). The dominant industry in the region is associated with coal mining and power generation.

Great Western Highway

Figure 6: Aerial photo showing tree-lined Hyde Park Lane, Hyde Park Reserve and adjacent lands Conservation is a major land use in the area, with the Blue Mountains National Park forming a significant percentage of the eastern section of the Lithgow Council LGA. This National Park is a major conservation area, internationally recognised as a World Heritage Area since November 2000. The Greater Blue Mountains was nominated as a result of its outstanding natural values, including the biodiversity of its plant and animal communities, vegetation dominated by Australia’s unique eucalypts, and for the unmatched beauty of its natural landscapes. The Wollemi National Park and Newnes State Forest lie to the north. To the west are the Gardens of Stone National Park and Pantoneys Crown Nature Reserve, Coco Creek Geological Site and Winburndale Nature Reserve. Toward the south is Evans Crown Nature Reserve and Kanangra-Boyd National Park, and the spectacular limestone of nearby Jenolan Caves Reserve.


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Recent years have seen the demographics of the region changing dramatically. In the last decade, many rural properties have been subdivided in order to cater for an increasing demand for rural lifestyle blocks, with many properties managed by absentee landlords, or as ‘weekenders’. With the increase in popularity of the Blue Mountains and Lithgow region as a visitor destination (it is estimated that 3 million people visit the Blue Mountains National Park each year. This figure is anticipated to increase by 40% over the next 5 years (BM Tourism Authority), in addition to continuing Highway upgrades that shorten the traveling distance from Sydney, the Hartley Valley now hosts many popular ‘Bed and Breakfast’ and ‘Farmstay’ type accommodation options, as well as real estate opportunities that promote an appealing rural-residential lifestyle. The surrounding lands to Hyde Park Reserve have subsequently seen an increasingly high incidence of subdivisions, with the most recent approval in 2006 on lands directly adjoining the eastern boundary of the Reserve.

1.8 Structure of the Plan of Management The Plan of Management is divided into five sections. Part 1 introduces the document. Part 2 provides a legislative context in terms of the Crown Lands Act and other legislative requirements for the Plan of Management. Part 3 provides a description of Hyde Park Reserve, its natural, cultural and recreational values. Part 4 outlines management issues and lists opportunities for resolution of these issues. Part 5 brings together the management actions proposed in Part 4 and includes objectives, performance targets, means of achievement and measures of success.

1.9 Stakeholder Consultation Community consultation plays an important role in the formulation of any Plan of Management. It provides Council with a sound understanding of relevant local issues from people who are familiar with and use the Reserve. The input from the community will be a key consideration when developing the direction for the future development of recreational assets. Public involvement and consultation provides for a better understanding of Council’s land management aims, combats misinformation and misunderstanding, and fosters support for Council’s programs and policies. This Plan of Management endeavors to incorporate concerns raised by stakeholders and known and identified user groups, and local community groups and adjacent neighbours.


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Hyde Park Plan of Management Part 2 – Legislation and Policy Framework


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2.0 LEGISLATION AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

2.1 Crown Lands Act 1989 Hyde Park is reserved Crown land and the Crown Lands Act 1989 is the primary act applying to its management. This legislation can be found on-line at www.legislation.nsw.gov.au The Crown Lands Act 1989 governs the planning, management and use of Crown land, including reservation or dedication for a range of public purposes, and leasing and licensing. The Department of Lands, together with Reserve Trust/s appointed by the Minister, is responsible for management of the Crown reserve system throughout New South Wales. They ensure that “Crown land is managed for the benefit of the people of New South Wales” (S10, CLA), and has regard for the principles of Crown land management (s.11 CLA) A Reserve Trust is a corporation established and appointed to manage a Crown reserve. Trusts are nominated by the Minister for Lands (Section 92 of the Crown Lands Act 1989). A Trust Board has functions conferred on it under the Crown Lands Act 1989, including being responsible, under the oversight of the Minister for Lands, for the care, control and management of a specific reserve consistent with the public purpose of its reservation or dedication. Lithgow City Council has been appointed to manage the affairs of the Trust under section 95 of the Crown Lands Act 1989. The Department encourages the community to be either directly involved in, or contribute to, the planning and management of the system as trustees of reserved and dedicated land.

2.1.1 Requirements of a Plan of Management for a Crown Reserve This Plan of Management has been prepared according to the requirements of the Crown Lands Act 1989. A Plan of Management will satisfy the Crown Lands Act 1989 if the following points are addressed:

• The Plan of Management is prepared by the Reserve Trust (Section 112). • Objects of the Act (s.10 CLA) are described and fulfilled • The Plan of Management and its outcomes must incorporate and satisfy the

Principles of Crown land management (Section 11). The Department’s land management philosophy directly relates to the Principles of Crown Land Management.

• The Plan of Management must address any matters required by the Minister responsible for the Crown Lands (Section 112).

• Section 87 of the CLA 89 gives the Minister the power to reserve land for a public purpose. In preparing a plan of management for a Crown reserve it is essential that the public purpose of the reserve be identified and used as a basis for planning and management. (P4 SWPOM). Any proposed uses, developments and management practices must conform to the public purpose for the reserve, and conform to particular policies of the Department of Lands regarding Crown reserves. (Section 87).


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2.1.2 Use and Management of Crown Land The use and management of Crown land is determined or influenced by:

• The objects (s.10) of the Crown Lands Act 1989 and particularly that Crown land is managed for the benefit of the people of NSW.

• The Principles of Crown land management (s.11). • The public purpose(s) of the land (s.80, 87), In the case of Hyde Park, Hartley,

“Public Recreation” and “Public Purpose”. Crown land is reserved for a public purpose, which means the reserve must provide a public benefit. Uses, activities, developments and agreements in a Crown reserve are defined by the public purpose of the reserve. All uses of Crown reserves must be acceptable according to their public purpose(s). The definition of public recreation for the purposes of this plan of management is “informal, passive recreational, low-key social and cultural activities”.

• Native title legislation • Rental from leases or licenses. 15% of the rental received from new leases and/or

licenses is placed in the Public Reserve Management Fund. This fund is a State government initiative that raises funds to assist reserve trusts in NSW.

• Case law judgments influence the policy and practice of the Department of Lands and Trust managers, and provide the following guidance:

• Use of the reserve must be consistent with the public purpose for which the

land is dedicated or reserved. This includes uses ancillary to or supportive of the reserve purpose.

• Improvements and developments to land which is reserved or dedicated are confined to those which support, or are ancillary to, the public purpose of the reservation.

• A reserve cannot be used for a purpose relating to an activity that is occurring off the reserve and that is not consistent with the reserve purpose. For example, car parking on a Crown reserve for Public Recreation that serves an adjoining land use would not be acceptable.

• Land reserved or dedicated for public recreation must be open to the public generally as a right. Exclusive use of the reserve should be minimised to avoid sections of the community becoming alienated from using the reserve. The public may only be restricted from access to parts of the reserve and buildings if it is necessary for the public’s enjoyment of the reserve or for health and safety reasons to be excluded, for example from a workshop, equipment storage or operational facilities.

• A lease or license must be consistent with the reason or purpose of the land’s reservation or dedication.

• Access as of right does not mean entirely free access. Reasonable entry fees and charges may be imposed, as well as other legal constraints to entry such as those relating to health and safety for example.

• Any conditions and provisions within the zoning in the Council’s Local Environmental

Plan (Section 3.2.2). • An adopted plan of management, a contractual agreement (lease or license), or a

combination of both to more specifically define the permitted uses.


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2.1.3 Principles of Crown Land Management The following principles of Crown land management (s. 11) underpin the management and use of the reserve:

• Environmental protection principles are observed in the management and administration of Crown land;

• Natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) are conserved, wherever possible;

• Public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land is to be encouraged; • Multiple use of Crown land is to be encouraged, where appropriate; • Crown land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land and its

resources are sustained in perpetuity, where appropriate; and • Crown land is to be occupied, used, sold, leased, licensed or dealt with in the best

interests of the State, consistent with the above principles.

Table 3: How this Plan of Management satisfies the Principles of Crown Land Management

Principle of Crown Lands Management

How this Plan is consistent with principles

Environmental protection principles are to be observed in relation to the management and administration of Crown Land.

The site is a remnant bushland reserve within a highly modified rural landscape and the protection, enhancement and conservation of all natural values relating to open space and public land underpin the PoM.

The natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) are to be conserved wherever possible.

The natural resources including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality have been identified and addressed in the PoM in relation to the necessary measures required to protect and conserve them.

Public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land is to be encouraged.

Appropriate public use and enjoyment of the reserve needs to be sustainably managed. Issues associated with the carrying capacity of the reserve whilst still encouraging those uses, are key issues to be addressed.

Multiple use of Crown land is to be encouraged, where appropriate.

Multiple use of the Reserve will be encouraged, where appropriate in order to be consistent with crown land principles.

Crown land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land and its resources are sustained in perpetuity, where appropriate.

Current uses are having a detrimental impact upon the way that both the land and its resources are sustained. This PoM addresses these issues in order to ensure that these are sustained in perpetuity.

Crown land is to be occupied, used, sold, leased, licensed or dealt with in the best interests of the State, consistent with the above principles.

Leases and licenses applied for through the reserve will be dealt with in order to be consistent with the principles of Crown land management.

Trust management (s.92-95)


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2.1.4 Plan of Management Preparation The Minister for Lands, under s.112 of the Crown Land Act 1989, may initiate the preparation of a plan of management for the Reserve, or the Minister may consent to a Reserve Trust preparing a Plan. The plan must be placed in draft form on public exhibition (for not less than 28 days) to allow the community representations. The Reserve Trust or Corporate Trust Manager must take comments from the community and the Department into account before finalising the plan and requesting that the Minister adopt the plan. This Plan of Management has been prepared in accordance with Section 112 of the Crown Lands Act 1989. A range of legislation, policies and other planning instruments are relevant to the management of the Reserve and have been considered in the formulation of the Plan of Management. The management implications of these are detailed below in Section 2.2. Adopted Plans of Management become regulatory instruments, which bind the Trust Manager and can give statutory authority to other types of plans, such as conservation management plans for heritage components.

2.2 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EPA Act) establishes the statutory planning framework for environmental and land use planning in NSW. This is done though SEPPs, REPs and LEPs. The EPA Act 1979 also sets out processes for approving development applications for structures and works as set out in LEP 1994, enabling local Council to list and protect heritage items.

2.3 State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) State Environmental Planning Policies deal with issues significant to the state and people of New South Wales. They are made by the Minister for Planning and may be exhibited in draft form for public comment before being gazetted as a legal document.

2.4 Regional Environmental Plans (REPs) Regional Environmental Plans cover issues such as urban growth, commercial centres, extractive industries, recreational needs, rural lands, and heritage and conservation. REPs are made under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and provide the framework for detailed local planning by councils. The southeast of the LGA including Lithgow, Hartley and Wallerawang is located within the Sydney drinking water catchment and subsequently subject to the requirements of the;

• Drinking Water Catchment Regional Environmental Plan No. 1 (REP No. 1). The REP No. 1 imposes requirements on Council when exercising a planning function within the catchment. The Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) is currently preparing a strategic land and water capability assessment for effected parts of the LGA. Any development proposed to be carried out must have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality. The SCA have advised that it considers a substantial part of the LGA unsuitable for intensification of land use as it would not be feasible to achieve a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality. These include lands characterised by steeper gradients on poor quality soils which are located on the edges of the drinking water catchment.

2.5 Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) The Reserve is subject to Lithgow City Council’s Local Environment Plan (LEP) 1994. The LEP is the main means of development control with zoning maps and a written instrument categorising developments as either permissible or prohibited. This PoM does not override provisions in a LEP. A comprehensive LEP is planned for completion by the end of March 2009.


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2.5.1 Zoning The subject land is currently zoned 1(a) Rural (General) under Lithgow City Council’s LEP (1994). The objective of the zone is to promote the proper management and utilisation of natural resources by:

• protecting, enhancing and conserving: rural land, in particular prime crop and pasture land, in a manner which

sustains its efficient and effective agricultural production potential, soil, by controlling and locating development in accordance with soil

capability, forests of existing and potential commercial value for timber production, valuable deposits of minerals, coal and extractive materials, by controlling the

location of development for other purposes in order to ensure the efficient extraction of those deposits,

trees and other vegetation in environmentally sensitive areas, where the conservation of the vegetation is significant for scenic amenity or natural wildlife habitat or is likely to control land degradation,

water resources for use in the public interest, preventing the pollution of water supply catchment and major water storages,

localities of significance for nature conservation, including places with rare plants, wetlands and significant wildlife habitat, and

items of heritage significance,

• preventing the unjustified development of prime crop and pasture land for purposes other than agriculture,

• facilitating farm adjustments, • minimising the cost to the community of:

fragmented and isolated development of rural land, and providing, extending and maintaining public amenities and services,

• providing land for other non-agricultural purposes, in accordance with the need for that development, and

• providing for the separation of conflicting land uses.

2.5.2 Land Management Purposes This Plan of Management applies to “reserved” Crown land, not “community land”. Community land is owned by council and subject to provisions in the Local Government Act 1993. Under the Local Government Act 1993, it is mandatory to prepare a Plan of Management for community land. All “community land” needs to be categorised and managed in accordance with identified management objectives, described in the Local Govt Act 1993. The Crown Lands Act does not require the categorising of lands but it could be useful for some crown reserve areas. Crown land, and therefore land managed by Reserve Trusts, is not a part of this requirement. Appropriate use and development of reserved Crown land is determined by the public purpose/s over the reserve. The zoning of the land under the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) provides a mechanism to ensure the orderly and economic development of the land through the Development Application (DA) process. Permissible development under the zoning and acceptable uses under the public purpose, should be complementary. The written LEP instrument includes the legal definitions of a wide range of land use activities divided into different zones to describe what uses are permissible, or prohibited under the given zones. The LEP also contains special provisions to address issues like heritage conservation, subdivision, service provision and land acquisition.


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The zoning map for the LEP depicts graphically the various zones for specific areas of land. In general terms, the LEP is used to determine if a land use or activity is permissible on any given property. The LEP expresses the Council's broad land use strategy for the LGA.

Figure 7: Zoning of Hyde Park and surrounding land

2.5.2 Development Proposal Assessments The Reserve Trust, or as is this case, the Corporate Trust Manager, must consider certain issues when deciding whether a particular land use or development is appropriate including:

• The compatibility of the proposal with the notified purpose of the reserve; • The impact on the existing use of the reserve; • The compatibility with the vision and management objectives established for the

reserve; • The need for the proposal and whether it will promote and be ancillary to the use and

enjoyment of the reserve, as distinct from satisfying a requirement generated by an adjoining property or by an independent or collateral community need;

• The advantage and benefit that the development would bring to the normal reserve user;

• The management responsibility and public availability of the development to reserve users;

• The need for a lease and its draft terms, conditions and rental that would apply.


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2.6 Legislation and Policy Legislation to be considered in undertaking works may incorporate but is not limited to the following Acts:

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 • Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 • Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004 • National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 • Noxious Weeds Act 1993 • Local Government Act 1993 • Australian Heritage Council Act 2003 • Heritage Act 1977

2.6.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) protects the environment, particularly matters of National Environmental Significance. It streamlines the national environmental assessment and approvals process, protects Australian biodiversity and integrates management of important natural and cultural places. This is a Federal Act relating to the protection of the environment and the conservation of biodiversity, and for related purposes. The Act provides for the establishment and maintenance of schedules of endangered and threatened flora and fauna species and endangered ecological communities. The EPBC Act protects Australia's native species and ecological communities by providing for:

• identification and listing of species and ecological communities as threatened • development of conservation advice and recovery plans for listed species and

ecological communities • development of a register of critical habitat • recognition of key threatening processes • where appropriate, reducing the impacts of these processes through threat

abatement plans

2.6.2 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 The NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act 1995) provides the legislative basis for the protection and management of threatened species in NSW. The Act provides for the establishment and maintenance of schedules of endangered and threatened flora and fauna species and endangered ecological communities. It places responsibilities on government agencies, consent authorities and applicants with respect to development control, planning and species recovery planning. The TSC Act provides for species Recovery Plans and Threat Abatement programs that guide and determine how works are to be undertaken for the provision of those species or communities. The TSC Act also lists key threatening processes (KTPs), which are identified as having significant impacts on the conservation of native flora and fauna. As of August 2006, 18 pests have been listed as KTPs. The NSW Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement (PAS) outlines the strategies for ameliorating threats listed under the TSC Act including the preparation of threat abatement plans. For each of these strategies the PAS lists one or more detailed actions which aim to protect threatened species by reducing the impact of listed threats. For a list of programs where threatened species are impacted by pests and Key Threatening Processes impacting on threatened species refer to Appendix 3. For a list of Priority Action Statements (PAS) relating to the Act, refer to Appendix 4.


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2.6.3 Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004 The Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004, passed by Parliament in November 2004, signals the NSW Government’s commitment to further integrating conservation with mainstream decision-making about how we use land and build our economy. The new reforms are aimed at establishing better frameworks and processes so that landholders, developers, farmers, community groups and government agencies can more effectively contribute to protecting the State’s biodiversity. The Amendment Act puts greater emphasis on land-use planning which focuses on the protection and restoration of native vegetation and threatened species habitat at the landscape scale and integrates with the Government’s other reforms to natural resource management and planning. The key areas of reform are:

• in urban and coastal areas, integration of biodiversity values into better strategic land-use planning, changes to the development assessment process and accreditation of flora and fauna consultants

• in rural areas, threatened species conservation embedded within native vegetation

protection to deliver a simpler and more supportive system of conservation incentives for landholders

• listing of threatened species maintained as a scientific process, with enhanced

transparency

• transparent prioritisation of actions for recovery and threat abatement

• upgraded enforcement and compliance provisions, and

• expert advisory councils to advise the Minister for the Environment on social, economic and biodiversity implications.

2.6.4 National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 The National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 undertakes the management of National Parks, and the protection of flora and fauna, and of aboriginal sites. National Parks issues permits and/or licenses required for the damage to aboriginal sites, holding of native fauna, and removing of flora. Under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, the Director-General of the NPWS is responsible for the care, control and management of all national parks, historic sites, nature reserves, reserves, Aboriginal areas and state game reserves. State conservation areas, karst conservation reserves and regional parks are also administered under the Act.


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2.6.5 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 The Noxious Weeds Act 1993 provides for the identification, classification and control of noxious weeds in New South Wales. The Act aims to identify noxious weeds and their respective control measures, as well as the roles and responsibilities for their control for both public and private land managers/owners. Amendments to the Noxious Weeds Act in 2005 introduced a new classification system of weed control classes based on the degree of threat and the distribution of the introduced plant within the state. The definition and classification of noxious weeds has been rationalised from an existing 13 categories into five. All previous "W" categories for noxious weeds have been reclassified into weed classes. The former W1, W2, W3 and W4 categories have been changed to "control classes" (CC) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. These new control classes are: Control Class 1 – State Prohibited Weeds Control Class 2 – Regionally Prohibited Weeds Control Class 3 – Regionally Controlled Weeds Control Class 4 – Locally Controlled Weeds Control Class 5 – Restricted Plants. Under this new classification system, Control Classes 1, 2 and 5 noxious weeds are referred to as notifiable weeds. Each class has a specific objective which relates to whether the weed is to be eradicated, fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed, the growth and the spread controlled, or if it is to be prevented from being sold, traded or knowingly distributed. The characteristics of each class are described in Appendix 1. Class 4 classifications requires the production of locally developed Weed Control Plans which provides the Local Control Authority (LCA) the flexibility in specifying how these weeds will be controlled in various situations, presenting an opportunity at a local government level to develop weed control plans that reflect community expectations as well as individual Council priorities. For a list of noxious weeds in the Lithgow LGA, refer to Appendix 2. The Local Control Authority (LCA) for the region is the Upper Macquarie County Council (UMCC). A full list of noxious weeds and requirements under the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 can be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds.

2.6.6 Local Government Act 1993 Section 428 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires Council to prepare an annual report including a report as to the state of the environment. In order to determine the existing state of the environment and to assess changes in the environment, baseline information needs to be collected. The undertaking of flora and fauna and heritage surveys, and bushland restoration to protect biodiversity is proposed under this Plan of Management. The information collected from the implementation of this Plan of Management will contribute towards the environmental reporting required for Council's annual reports.


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2.7 Links to Other Plans and Programs Lithgow City Council is concurrently undertaking a number of other planning activities that may influence or be influenced by, the recommendations and actions identified in the Plan, and include:

• Lithgow City Council Strategic Plan – June 2007 • Proposed Local Environmental Plan (LEP March 2009) • Lithgow City Council Land Use Study (draft) • Lithgow City Council Social Plan • Lithgow City Council Management Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10 • Lithgow City Council annual State of the Environment (SoE) Report

2.7.1 National and Regional Programs This plan works in conjunction with the following national and regional plans to assist in helping set targets and priorities for the program.

Weeds of National Significance Australia has a list of twenty Weeds of National Significance. These weeds we identified from a list of greater than 3000 non-native naturalised plants due to their invasiveness, impact and spread. Weeds of National Significance that are significantly impacting sites in the region include Blackberry, Gorse, Serrated Tussock and a number of Willows.

The National Weeds Strategy This document provides a mechanism to reduce the impact of weeds on the sustainability of Australia’s productive capacity and natural ecosystems. It recognises that action initiated to address problems need to be co-ordinated and integrated by a variety of Natural Resource Managers, government agencies and other interested parties.

NSW Invasive Species Plan 2007 - 2015 The NSW Invasive Species Plan 2007-2015 is being developed in line with the NSW State Plan and will replace the current NSW Weeds Strategy and incorporate the management of weeds, vertebrate pests, invertebrate pests and freshwater and marine aquatic pests. It will provide a comprehensive set of objectives with key priority actions to deliver measurable outcomes in invasive species management in NSW. The Plan is currently at the community consultation stage.

NSW Biodiversity Strategy This Strategy proposes a framework for coordinating and integrating government and community efforts, ensuring that available resources are efficiently and effectively applied. The actions in the Strategy detail a balanced response for the integration of ecological, social and economic objectives and will establish a model for other States. The Strategy outlines proposals to protect the high quality natural environment of NSW.

Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Action Plan The Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Action Plan (CAP) is a ten-year plan to improve natural resource management outcomes throughout the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment. The CAP sets out targets and actions in relation to; the reduction in land affected by pest plants, improvements in water quality, increasing community awareness of, soil and capacity to, contribute to the management of natural resources. The CAP contains targets for environmental improvement and is a ten-year plan for action — specifically action that the CMA can directly undertake or directly influence through strong partnerships.


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Hawkesbury Nepean River Health Strategy The River Health Strategy identifies the values and threats for a number of river reaches in the catchment and outlines management actions in regard to; maintaining the condition of natural or near natural reaches, maintaining and improving good condition reaches, improving environmental condition in the remaining reaches, and rehabilitating degraded reaches. Under this strategy the River Lett is identified as a ‘high priority’ reach.

Hawkesbury Nepean Draft Weeds Strategy This strategy prioritises weed species in sub regions throughout the catchment, setting out strategies and actions to guide weed control activities across the catchment over the next 5 years.

2.8 Community Consultation Community consultation is an integral part of the process of preparing a Plan of Management. Continuous review and incorporation of attitudes, expectations and requirements into the ongoing management of the Reserve is also paramount. Pursuant to Clause 35 – Crown Lands Regulation 2000, the draft Plan was placed on public exhibition for a period of at least 28 days, with the exhibition process coordinated by Lithgow City Council. A public notice was published in the local print media detailing where and when the Plan was displayed, inviting submissions from interested members of the public. During the exhibition period, the Plan was available at the Lithgow Council Administrative Office in Mort St, Lithgow City Library in Main St and on Council’s website. Lithgow City Council reviewed comments submitted from the public and by other government agencies. The Plan was then submitted to the Minister for adoption following any amendments required because of public submissions.

Figure 8: Conducting discussion with the community at an on-site meeting in December 2007


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During the period of October-December 2007, Council commenced preparation of the Hyde Park Plan of Management by initialising the public community consultation process. Initial requests were made to approximately 34 identified stakeholders including relevant agencies, community groups and individuals, requesting preliminary input into the draft plan. A letterbox drop was conducted in the direct vicinity of Hyde Park Reserve in preparation of an on-site community meeting planned to be held ion the 8th December 2007. The resultant community meeting resulted in 28 participants attending, with local television media covering the event. Information received and subsequently incorporated into the plan was compiled from a 10-point questionnaire filled in by those attending, as well as a number noted as apologies on the day. Importantly, this process proved invaluable for both Council and community participants, as well as helped consolidate Council's primary objective in relation to the project – that the plan be driven by the inherent on-site values of the Reserve and local community input. In essence, the consultation process allowed Council to:

• Engage and meet relevant stakeholders and members from an array of local community groups

• Gain a greater understanding and appreciation of community views and perceptions

• Improve their understanding of the known and identified values of the Reserve

• Gauge community feeling in relation to certain issues

As a result of the community consultation process, numerous submissions received have been incorporated into this document (summarised in Appendices 14 & 15). Issues incorporated into this document arising has included but is not limited to, the following suggestions:

• provide a stable and well-drained access • re-organise the parking area within the reserve • provide information and interpretive signage • provide day use facilities with appropriate equipment and furniture • provide a controlled walking track network • provide regular removal of litter • protect and promote the native vegetation through a regeneration program • control and prevent weed infestation; • protect and promote the native vegetation communities • identify and protect rare and threatened species • protect and enhance the significant cultural attributes of the land; • ensure recreational activities do not disturb habitats • develop and adopt a localised fire plan • provide adequate planning to control erosion, drainage and development • provide a framework for the effective and sustainable management of the Reserve.


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2.9 Implementation If the Minister adopts the Plan it is incumbent on the Reserve Trust manager to “carry out and give effect to it” pursuant to Section 114, Crown Lands Act 1989. The Trust may not allow any operations or development that is not in accordance with the Plan of Management. Alteration of the adopted Plan of Management may be undertaken under Section 115 of the Act and may be required after a period of five years to keep abreast of government policy, to cater for the changing expectations and requirements of the community and to ensure the POM remains useful and relevant. Funding for management of the reserve will be sought from a range of Government, Council and community sources. Lithgow City Council as Corporate Trust Manager, may enter into a lease or license for the whole or part of the lands to which this draft Plan applies provided that:

• The use and/or occupation of the land is in accordance with this Plan of Management and relevant Crown land management policies

• The use and/or occupation of the land is consistent with the purpose of the reserve

and is considered to be in the public interest.

• The granting of the lease or license is in accordance with the provisions of the Crown Lands Act 1989.

2.9.1 Accountability The Crown Lands Act Regulation (2000) specifies the accountability of the Trust Manager in terms of the management of the reserve. Clause 33 directs that reports must be prepared annually detailing the income, expenditure, assets, liabilities and improvements of the reserve as well as the details of any leases or licenses granted by the Trust. Clause 34 directs that the Trust must keep the following records as detailed in Schedule 4 of the Regulation:

• Where a Reserve Trust is managed by a Council as defined in the Local Government Act 1993, the council is required to keep separate records to permit analysis of monetary details for each reserve. The account must among other things detail revenue and expenditure, improvements carried out on the reserves, and list all leases and licenses granted or in force.


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Hyde Park Plan of Management Part 3 – Basis for Management

- Reserve Description and Values


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3.0 BASIS FOR MANAGEMENT This section outlines the basis for management; giving the direction provided by Council’s Strategic Planning documents. In setting out the framework for the use and management of Hyde Park Reserve, it is important that this Plan of Management is consistent with Council’s vision statements and key directions. Council’s Strategic Plan is the principal strategic planning document in the LGA. It provides a direction for the next 10 to 20 years and informs Council’s planning and on-the-ground activities through its management and operational plans. In particular, the overarching vision of the Strategic Plan is reflected in the activities of the Management Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10 and the vision statements and key theme areas of the Strategic Plan are the principal activity areas and statements of intent for the Management Plan. The following overarching vision and statements were developed in collaboration with the community and adopted by Council at its Policy and Strategy Committee Meeting of 3 October 2006 (Minute No. 06-315) and guides Lithgow’s Strategic Plan 2007/8 – 2009/10:

3.0.1 Overarching Vision “…a centre of regional excellence that:

• encourages community growth and development

• contributes to the efficient and effective management of the environment, community and economy for present and future generations.”

3.0.2 Vision Statements COMMUNITY We retain, respect and strengthen both our overall sense of community, and the unique linked communities of groups, rural areas, villages and towns that make up the Lithgow LGA. HERITAGE Celebrating, protecting and sustaining our unique industrial and natural heritage, it’s cultural landscapes and its built heritage. EDUCATION Progressing to a “learning city of excellence” with a broad range of formal and non-formal education services. HEALTH Creating a healthy community providing opportunities and facilities for a healthy lifestyle. ENVIRONMENT Balancing, protecting and enhancing our diverse environmental elements, both natural and built, for the enjoyment and support of both current and future generations. YOUTH Providing suitable entertainment and recreational facilities; education and employment opportunities and lifestyle choices for our valuable community of young people. GROWTH Providing for sustainable and planned growth, while enhancing the existing rural and village identity.


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3.0.3 Heritage Key issues identified by Council’s Strategic Plan are summarised by the following key issues:

The protection and conservation of indigenous and non-indigenous heritage areas, items and landscapes within the Local Government Area (LGA).

The planning needs and the surrounding locality of the Hartley Historic Village.

Strategies

Actions

Results

HR1 - Identifying, preserving, improving and promoting the LGA's indigenous and non indigenous built and natural heritage.

• review and/or complete heritage studies • identify heritage items of local significance for listing in the comprehensive Lithgow Local Environmental Plan (LEP) • inform owners of potential heritage items • protect the Hartley Historic Site in the comprehensive Lithgow LEP • consult local indigenous groups on indigenous heritage matters • incorporate heritage controls into the Lithgow LEP and development controls plan(s) • provide guidance in restoring and preserving heritage items • develop criteria for the John Wellings Heritage Award

preserved heritage items

information on how to restore and preserve heritage items

recognition of learning excellence

3.0.4 Environment Key issues identified by Council’s Strategic Plan are summarised by the following:

The protection and conservation of biodiversity including native/remnant vegetation, flora, fauna, national parks, reserves and other Department of Environment and Climate Change Estates.

The protection and enhancement of water including the requirements of being located

within the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment; State Government water quality objectives; the presence of blue green algae; wetlands, riparian corridors, groundwater ecosystems and effluent disposal.

The management of contaminated lands in the LGA.

Air quality issues relating to emissions from solid fuel heaters.

The management of waste and recycling in the LGA, particularly in light of the future

closure of current landfills and commencement of the Blackman’s Flat Waste Management Facility.


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Strategies

Actions

Results

E2 - Identifying and protecting the Department of Environment & Climate Change Estates.

• protect the DECC estate in the comprehensive LEP through zoning • permit development without consent only where authorized under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 • provide buffers and/or prohibit conflicting land uses

protection of

biodiversity

avoiding conflicting land uses

E6 - Protecting and improving our water quality.

• facilitating the protection of waterways in the LEP with tools such as buffers in accordance with community values • consult with government departments during the preparation of the Land Use Strategy and comprehensive Lithgow LEP • protecting waterways through education and enforcement • seeking funding and supporting riparian rehabilitation projects • complete the review and implement the On-site Sewage Management Strategy • develop operational plans and consider in management plan process • review and implement the Stormwater Management Plan

cleaner water cost sharing

E9 - Fulfilling responsibilities under the Drinking Water Catchment Regional Environmental Plan No. 1.

• Sydney Catchment Authority complete the strategic land and water capability assessment • consider the outcomes of the strategic land and water capability assessment in the preparation of the Land Use Strategy and comprehensive Lithgow LEP • seek funding from the Sydney Catchment Authority to prepare the comprehensive Lithgow Local Environmental Plan and assess development applications under the REP No. 1

legal responsibilities fulfilled

cost sharing not cost shifting

A full list of key issues and planned actions are available in Lithgow City Council’s Strategic Plan, and can be obtained on the Council website.


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3.0.5 Lithgow City Council Management Plan Strategies from the Strategic Plan are incorporated into Council’s Draft Management Plan 2008-09 to 2010-11 and each activity Council proposes to undertake must demonstrate that it will implement a strategy that is sustainable and will assist in the achievement of the vision statements. The Management Plan details Council's activities for at least the next 3 years and the revenue policy for the next year. Table 4 outlines current planned programs in relation to environmental management in the LGA as outlined in the current (2007-2008) Management Plan.

Program of Works – Environment

Objective

Activity

Performance Indicator

Environmental Education To improve the community's knowledge of environmental issues.

Provide education on environmental matters to the community.

4 education programs/visits per year.

Environmental Advisory Committee To provide a forum for environmental groups to discuss matters relating to the environment.

Organise the Environmental Advisory Committee meetings in accordance with the terms of reference.

Attend meetings regularly.

Environmental Improvement Grants Prepare grant applications for funding of environmental improvement works.

Number of grants successfully obtained and completed.

To seek opportunities to enhance the environment.

Undertake weed removal, revegetation, soil stabilisation works, site interpretation and construction of walking tracks at: • Hartley Reserve • Hassans Walls • Hyde Park • Londonderry Reserve as part of the River Lett Improvement Program.

Project completed by 30 June 2008. Council and the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority fund this project.

Weed Management To control environmental and noxious weeds.

Control environmental and/or noxious weeds and/or pests on public land through Council and/or services provided by the Upper Macquarie County Council.

Service levels achieved as described in the Operational Plan and notification of control activities in accordance with Council's Pesticide Use Notification Plan. Program of works completed by Upper Macquarie County Council.

Table 4: Existing Programs of Works 2007-08


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3.1 Natural Environment Natural and cultural heritage and on-going use are strongly inter-related and together form the landscape of an area. Much of the environment has been influenced by past land use practices, and the activities of modern day Australians continue to influence bushland through recreational use, cultural practices, and the presence of introduced plants and animals.

3.1.1 Reserve Characteristics Hyde Park Reserve is located 1.8kms to the northeast of Hartley (15 km to the east of Lithgow Township) on the northern and southern banks of the Lett River within the broader Coxs River catchment. The River Lett drains from a series of creeks beginning in the north, south and east in Dargan/Bell and Mt Victoria, flows into the River Lett in the Hartley Valley and then into the Coxs River (figure 14). The site is located at the northeastern end of the Coxs River catchment at an altitude of approximately 750-800m above sea level, with land areas covered by the Topographic Map: Hartley 8930-4-N. Lithgow City Council in the Parish of Hartley, County of Cook, administers Hyde Park Reserve. Hyde Park comprises 18 hectares (in total) of Crown land reserved for Public Recreation and Public Purposes, situated on the northern and southern banks of the River Lett. The Reserve comprises approximately 9.5 hectares on the southern side of the River Lett, and two parcels of approximately 8.5 hectares on the northern bank. Due to its steep terrain, limited access and dense vegetation on the northern side is consequently seldom used with the exception of the river flats. The total area of all three parcels is 18 hectares (Refer to Figures 1, 6, 7).

Figure 9: Looking southward along Hyde Park Lane, the Crown Rd access to ‘Hyde Park Reserve’


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Hyde Park Reserve is accessed by a length of unsealed Crown road (known as Hyde Park Lane), beginning at the property named “TullyDonnell” which is 500m from the Great Western Highway off the Mid Hartley Road. This narrow section of the reserve is tree-lined and fenced and extends for approximately 1.7kms between paddocks and newly sub-divided properties, to a previously gated fence that is the entrance to the triangle-wedge-shaped Reserve. Stock was agisted through this southern section of the Reserve as part of an approved Permissive Occupancy License for grazing, for ten years up until 1997. Hyde Park Reserve is a well-vegetated bushland reserve, with no formal infrastructure or facilities. The reserve is fenced over its full boundary, with breaches in some places on the east and western boundaries. The reserve initially slopes gently to the southwest until it reaches the River Lett where it falls markedly at the western point of the Reserve.

Figure 10: The aesthetics and permanent water make the Reserve popular in Summer

The River Lett flows through the Reserve for a length of approximately 700m, having at least one deep body of water popular for swimming within a small rocky gorge. The steep cliffs decline and disappear at both the up and downstream ends of the reserve. Adjacent landholders on the opposite bank have fenced paddocks, some distance back from the river. The steep terrain appears to restrict and deter stock from intruding into the Reserve on this Northern side. Locals and tourists use the reserve heavily for swimming throughout warmer months, as well as camping and picnicking, which over the last decade has accelerated greatly due to recent subdivisions within the Hartley Valley, the removal of stock (and subsequent breach of gate), unrestricted access and uses (no signage), and increased local knowledge.


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3.1.2 Landform, Geology and Soils Soil landscapes for the Katoomba 1:100 000 Map Sheet have been mapped as part of the former Department of Land and Water Conservation (now Department of Environment and Climate Change) Soil Landscape series. This map sheet series describes topography, soil types and land use limitations for each soil landscape. The pattern of rock types and resultant soils vary greatly throughout the catchment, with sandstone and granite soils predominantly of very low fertility, highly permeable and erodable. Combined with steep slopes and irregular but often intense rainfall events, the soils have implications for catchment management in relation to erosion and sedimentation issues, and the management of activities within the catchment. The surrounding landscape is rolling hills and narrow flats to rounded crests on carboniferous granites. The major qualities and limitations is summarised as localised steep slopes, rock outcrop, acid sandy soils of low fertility, high water erosion hazard, possible mass movement hazard and localised high water tables. Hyde Park has the igneous rock type of granite of the Bathurst Batholith as its parent material. This rock consists of minerals in the form of fine grains of mica, feldspar and quartz. The resulting soils derived from granite are characterized by yellow textured soils in the woodland areas, to deep course sands of alluvium in the river.

The riverbed and banks are sheet granite rocks and boulders that formed as part of the Batholith. Steep cliffs decline and disappear at both the eastern and western ends of the reserve revealing a narrow, rocky gorge that broadens out into a flat rock area and large plunge-pool. The soil is shallow and coarse-grained sandy soil derived from the Narrabeen sandstone and shales from surrounding cliffs. The riparian zone is shallow, black alluvial soil with pockets of richer silt. The River is prone to heavy depositions of silt and sands, with debris deposition suggesting high flood levels. The Geology and Soil Landscapes Map Sheets are included in Appendix 5 and 6.

Figure 11: Spectacular geology in Hyde Park Reserve


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3.1.3 Native Vegetation 3.1.3 Native Vegetation D.A. Keith & D.H. Benson (1988) mapped native plant communities of the Hartley Valley area for the Katoomba 1:100,000 map sheet, Cunninghamia 2(1): 107-143 (1988) recognizing the following vegetation communities:

D.A. Keith & D.H. Benson (1988) mapped native plant communities of the Hartley Valley area for the Katoomba 1:100,000 map sheet, Cunninghamia 2(1): 107-143 (1988) recognizing the following vegetation communities:

• “Yellow Box Woodland” • “Yellow Box Woodland” • cleared • cleared

However, Map Unit 10h is included below, as the vegetation distribution and species composition fits into this complex unit (p. 124). The report makes reference to Butlers Creek which drains directly in to the River Lett approximately 1km upstream of Hyde Park and goes on to say …..”E. pauciflora ssp pauciflora and E. rubida occur in frost hollows, while the more poorly drained depressions, for example at Butler’s Creek, may support a woodland of E. aggregata, E. mannifera ssp mannifera and E. stellulata with Leptospermum myrtifolium in the understory. Eucalyptus viminalis (Ribbon Gum) is common along creek banks. This map unit has been mostly cleared for agriculture in the Hartley-Hartley Vale area”.

However, Map Unit 10h is included below, as the vegetation distribution and species composition fits into this complex unit (p. 124). The report makes reference to Butlers Creek which drains directly in to the River Lett approximately 1km upstream of Hyde Park and goes on to say …..”E. pauciflora ssp pauciflora and E. rubida occur in frost hollows, while the more poorly drained depressions, for example at Butler’s Creek, may support a woodland of E. aggregata, E. mannifera ssp mannifera and E. stellulata with Leptospermum myrtifolium in the understory. Eucalyptus viminalis (Ribbon Gum) is common along creek banks. This map unit has been mostly cleared for agriculture in the Hartley-Hartley Vale area”.

“Yellow Box Woodland” (10o)

Woodland: Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora) – Ribbon Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis)

“Tablelands

Grassy Woodland

Complex” (10h)

Woodland: Broad-Leafed Peppermint (Eucalyptus dives), Brittle Gum (Eucalyptus mannifera), eugeniodes Woodland: Snow Gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora) - Candlebark (Eucalyptus rubida) Woodland: aggregata, Brittle Gum (Eucalyptus mannifera), White Sally (Eucalyptus stellulata)

The (P5MA) Native Vegetation Map Report Series No. 4 undertaken by the Department of Conservation (DEC) and the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources (DIPNR) (Tindall et al. 2004), describes the native vegetation as; • “Tableland Grassy Box-Gum Woodland” and; • “Tableland Granite Grassy Woodland”

Figure 12: Mapped Native Vegetation Communities occurring at Hyde Park and surrounds


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“Tableland Grassy Box-Gum Woodland” (Grassy Woodland 24)

Trees:

Eucalyptus melliodora, E. dives, E. macrorhyncha.

Shrubs:

Lissanthe strigosa, Melichrus urceolatus.

Groundcover:

Lomandra filiformis subsp coriacea, Themeda australis, Microlaena stipoides, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Poa sieberiana, Austrodanthonia racemosa, Goodenia hederacea.

Other diagnostic features:

Loamy soils on undulating tableland 650-900m, Abercrombie River-Braidwood. Eucalypt woodland with sparse shrub layer and grassy groundcover.

Vegetation formation:

Grassy Woodlands

Vegetation class:

Southern Tableland Grassy Woodlands

Cleared estimate rounded to nearest 5%:

Is mapped as a vegetation type as having 99% of it’s original extent cleared, with an estimated 1% remaining

“Tableland Granite Grassy Woodland” (Grassy Woodland 420)

Trees:

Eucalyptus viminalis, E. melliodora.

Shrubs:

Rubus parviflorus, Acacia melanoxylon. Climbers: Glycine clandestina.

Groundcover:

Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Microlaena stipoides, Acaena novae-zelandiae, Geranium solanderi, Lomandra filiformis subsp coriacea, Rumex brownii, Dichondra spp., Desmodium varians, Stellaria pungens, Themeda australis, Austrodanthonia racemosa, Hypericum gramineum.

Other diagnostic features:

Rolling granite terrain 550-1050m on the tablelands, Hartley-Braidwood. Eucalypt woodland with sparse shrub layer and grassy groundcover.

Vegetation formation:

Wet Sclerophyll Forests (Grassy subformation)

Vegetation class:

Southern Tableland Wet Sclerophyll Forests

Cleared Estimate rounded to nearest 5%:

Is mapped as having 70% of its original extent cleared, with an estimated 30% remaining.

The pattern of land clearing throughout the catchment has been strongly biased towards flat to undulating terrain where soils are relatively fertile, and have been preferential for agricultural and urban development. Vegetation types common to these environments have sustained proportionally larger reductions than those found in more unsuitable environments. The Hartley Valley and River Lett is surrounded by native forest vegetation that is structurally representative of the once extensive open forest of the region. Floristically the forest has probably been simplified from the original composition since European settlement. It is dominated at present by remnant and regenerating Eucalyptus viminalis, E. rubida, E. melliodora and E. stellulata and scattered individuals of other remnant eucalypt species. Grassy Woodlands of the type found in Hyde Park, occur on granite substrates on undulating terrain. Agriculturally suitable, these environments have sustained proportionally large reductions in extent, particularly in the Hartley Valley and surrounds. Key Threatening


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Processes listed on Schedule III of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) associated with this vegetation type are listed in Section 3.7.1. Hyde Park Reserve uniquely preserves an area of species-rich and relatively intact native shrubby riparian vegetation due to a combination of land tenure and terrain. This remnant vegetation is reportedly now very uncommon on both the River Lett and the main course of the Coxs River, and probably represents the best-preserved and substantial area of this remaining vegetation type (Makinson 2001).

Figure 13: Typical Woodland structure with minimal midstorey Typical of woodland structure, the understorey shrubs are sparse, with the ground layer of grasses the dominant vegetation layer throughout the woodland area, inclusive of some introduced pasture species. The vegetation has been modified by historic clearing, although a number of remaining mature trees are hollow-bearing. The result is a somewhat fragmented, and potentially floristically simplified natural environment. The riparian vegetation, although mapped as ‘Riverbank Forest’ is actually dominated by Lemon Scented Tea Tree (Leptospermum polygalifolium), with occurrences of River Bottlebrush (Callistemon sieberi) and River Lomatia (Lomatia myricoides). The riparian zone in this area is unusual due to the absence of River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamiana), typical of Coxs River riparian zone, which commences a few hundred metres downstream and continues further downstream through the Coxs system. The riparian community is still relatively undisturbed and is representative of intact creek environments. Towards the eastern end of the reserve is a backwater area parallel to the river, which has Cumbungi, Australian Reed and sedges growing in it. Present in the adjacent understorey are Grevillea rosmarinifolia, Bursaria spinosa and Lissanthe strigosa.


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3.1.3.1 Significant Species Lithgow City Council annual reporting, records the following in relation to known native plant species listed under State or Federal legislation within the LGA.

Table 5: Known threatened flora species in the Lithgow LGA Threatened Flora Species 2004/05

Number of endangered species 8

Number of vulnerable species 16

Threatened Flora Species 2007


State of the Environment Report 2005 & 2007

Figure 14: Looking downstream toward the northern bank of the River Lett A population of Asterolasia buxifolia has been re-discovered within the boundaries of Hyde Park Reserve, for the first time since Allan Cunningham first described it in the 1820s, being previously presumed extinct in the wild. This species is listed as Endangered in NSW as scheduled under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) and is currently only known from this one location (Appendix 8). The species occurs in the riparian zone, within 2-3m of river level of the Lett River. The population size is estimated to be in the order of only 50-100 plants. The Hyde Park population is the only known occurrence of this species.


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Possible threats to Asterolasia buxifolia include weed invasion and competition, and alterations to water flow regime. Flood disturbance and a relatively weed-free ground layer may be critical factors for establishment. It is presumably insect-pollinated, certainly fire-sensitive and more-or-less an ‘obligate seeder’ (DECC).

Figure 15: Asterolasia buxifolia is listed as Endangered

An additional species of note is Grevillea rosmarinifolia subspecies rosmarinifolia (Type form). This form of the species was thought for many years to be extinct in the wild. The site and the surrounds contain a population of approximately 450-500 plants, initially recorded in late 1999. This population represents one of very few examples (if not the only example) of the Type form surviving in the wild. Birds mainly pollinate Grevillea rosmarinifolia, although introduced honeybees are a frequent visitor. Given the relatively long flowering season, and the size of this population in a valley now largely lacking non-eucalypt nectar sources for birds, the population may represent a significant food source for resident or migratory honeyeaters. It is probably quite susceptible to browsing by domestic and feral herbivores. Maintenance of the integrity of the Reserve fence-lines is likely to be an important management factor, as is Blackberry control. This is addressed further in Section 4.2.2.

Figure 16: Grevillea rosmarinifolia grows only in the riparian zone of the River Lett


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There is an extensive stand of several hundred plants of the orchid species Musky Caladenia (Caladenia gracilis) on the slopes and higher level ground above the north bank - this species has not yet been located on the southern bank. The Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research (CPBR) Orchid Unit from Canberra recorded at least seven different species of orchid in 2000. To quote Senior Botanist Bob Makinson from the Royal Botanic Gardens of NSW, - “The native vegetation of the Cox’s River riparian zone has been very heavily compromised, and for the most part destroyed. The combination of tenure and terrain at Hyde Park has preserved an area of species-rich and mostly very healthy native shrubby riparian vegetation, to a degree that is now very uncommon both on the River Lett and on the main course of the Cox’s River.

Figure 17: The restricted habitat of Asterolasia buxifolia (Photo: L. Forward) The ‘Hyde Park Reserve’ riparian zone on both banks of the River Lett, probably represent the best substantial linear area of this vegetation type left at valley-floor altitude on the middle part of the Cox’s River system. Consideration should be given for the protection of the overall vegetation of Hyde Park, including the part of the reserve on the northern bank of the river, as an area of high aesthetic and biodiversity value in which vegetation structure and floristics closely approach pre-settlement conditions. These values should be recognised in any management plan for the reserve, with a formal assessment of significance being commissioned if this is thought necessary. It is recommended that ways be sought to combine the preservation of the reserve’s biodiversity and continued public use, to the extent feasible”.


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3.1.4 Native Fauna The diversity of vegetation contained within the riparian vegetation and adjoining woodlands has the potential to provide habitat for both common and vulnerable wildlife. No detailed surveying has been undertaken in the Reserve; however campers, TAFE students and regular visitors have made preliminary fauna lists, particularly of birds. Since vegetation contributes so much to animal habitat, it is likely that vegetation changes will be reflected in changes to groups of animals. Hence, factors such as plant biomass, vertical structure, cover, and plant community composition are all likely to be influential in determining the presence or absence of particular species of animals. Evidence of fauna has been found through scats, scratchings, direct sightings have been song, diggings, prints, feathers and skeletal remains. Hair-tube sampling was also undertaken through the Reserve with samples sent for analysis in order to help confirm species present within the Reserve. Appendix 10 lists species recorded and further collated by consultants undertaking a flora and fauna survey for the eastern subdivision in 2006. This survey revealed the presence of at least fourteen species of microbats in the Reserve and adjacent lands. The shrubby vegetation of the River bed and banks ranges from very open to very dense, providing a diverse range of different microhabitat. Hollow logs and rocks are important habitat components for many species of native fauna. Many of the trees in the Reserve contain hollows. Nesting native birds have been poached from the reserve, which followed with successful prosecutions being made by NPWS.

Figure 18: Short-beaked Echidna

Lithgow City Council annual reporting, records the following in relation to known native animal species listed under State or Federal legislation within the LGA.

Table 6: Known threatened faunal species in the LGA

Threatened Fauna Species 2004/05

Number of endangered species 9

Number of presumed extinct species 1


2007 No data

State of the Environment Report 2005 & 2007

The River Lett contains populations of Platypus with numerous sightings recorded. In recent years, there have been reports of a high number of fatalities, possibly attributable to the extended drought conditions and subsequent reduction in optimal habitat conditions.


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3.1.5 Hydrology 3.1.5 Hydrology Hydrological modifications have occurred extensively through the broader catchment including river regulation and dams, water extraction and diversion, the modification of surface and groundwater flows by the removal of vegetation, extractive industries and the tapping of ground water with bores. The hydrological catchment of the River Lett subcatchment equals approximately 9,000 hectares.

Hydrological modifications have occurred extensively through the broader catchment including river regulation and dams, water extraction and diversion, the modification of surface and groundwater flows by the removal of vegetation, extractive industries and the tapping of ground water with bores. The hydrological catchment of the River Lett subcatchment equals approximately 9,000 hectares.

Figure 19: The hydrological catchment boundaries of Hyde Park Reserve (approx. 9,000ha)

ClarenceLithgow

Dargan

Bell

Hyde Park Reserve

Hartley Vale

Mt York

Mt Victoria


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Native plants and animals depend on water flow variations for reproduction, hatching, migration and other important lifecycle stages. Annual floods deposit nutrients on the land, flush out backwater channels, and replenish wetlands. To the north, water drains through a series of swamps as one of the headwaters to Dargan Creek before being dammed in two sections of the creek, in an area of Reserved Crown land, known as Dargan Creek Reserve. Dams can reduce normal flooding, and eliminate the ecological benefits provided by this flooding. Aquatic ecosystem health is closely linked to water temperature tolerances and impounded waters may discharge at significantly higher or lower temperatures than normal. Stream changes induced by dams are often reflected in the fish community. Native species are often displaced in river segments affected by dams, weirs and barriers, which limit the normal movement of fish, other aquatic organisms, and organic material. Dozens of farm dams are present throughout the floor of the Hartley Valley, which would also contribute to changes in volumes of water moving through the system. Bushland and the Darling Causeway carriageway between Mt Victoria and Bell bind the eastern escarpment. From the southeast, water drains from the small township of Mt Victoria (population 900) firstly into Fairy Dell Creek, then Kerosene Creek, and finally into the upstream section of the River Lett through Hartley Vale.

Stormwater and urban run-off contribute nutrients to the system, as does Mt Victoria’s locally treated sewage. The Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) operating at Mt Victoria is located in the headwater of Fairy Dell Creek, discharging approximately 0.17 ML (1 mega litre = 1 million litres) per day into Fairy Dell Creek, with the level of treatment being tertiary, (including additional Phosphorus & Nitrogen removal & disinfection).

Figure 20: The downstream riparian zone of the River Lett in Hyde Park Reserve


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In the late 90s the facility was upgraded as a response to the increasing peak-use demands (particularly on weekends), and repeated failure during times of either high-use and/or wet weather flows. More recently, Sydney Water determined that the three upper Mountains villages of Mt Victoria, Blackheath and Medlow Bath currently discharging into local waterways, be decommissioned and connected to the Sewerage Treatment Facility at Winmalee. The Winmalee Treatment Plant currently pipes the remaining Blue Mountains town’s sewage from Katoomba eastward via a tunnel, that discharges into an un-named creek that drains into the Nepean River. The pipeline drilling and bore works have recently commenced in preparation for the towns to connect. It is anticipated that the Mt Victoria STP will be decommissioned by early 2009. Hyde Park Reserve is the only known occurrence of the Endangered species Asterolasia buxifolia. Threatening processes have been identified to potentially include weed invasion, altered flood regimes and alterations to water flows. Flood disturbance may be a critical factor for establishment. An equally important identified factor may be the maintenance of the natural flood regime of the River Lett. 3.1.6 Fire Fire is a natural process in the Australian environment, and an occurrence that many native plants and animals are generally adapted to and are able to survive and/or re-colonise affected areas. In the long term however, the effects of fire depend on the fire regime - the combination of fire frequency, intensity and season of fire occurrence. The correct management of fire is essential to avoid the extinction of native plant and animal species. Australia has a large and diverse flora and fauna, much of it unique to the continent. This diversity, combined with the fact that there is a wide range of ‘natural’ fire regimes and physical environments, means that there is an enormous range of potential fire regime effects. These effects include local extinction of flora and fauna, changes in water yield and quality, changes in pasture palatability, and woody plant encroachment. Imposing a fire regime of regular hazard reduction burning at frequent intervals could have an adverse effect on plant species diversity and a corresponding adverse effect on fauna. High frequency fire has been listed as a Key Threatening Process on Schedule III of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995). Community reports indicate at least three localized fires spreading from inadequately extinguished campfires, having to be extinguished by campers. According to the local fire brigade, the Reserve has had a few incidences of fire, with no major fires recorded in the main body of the reserve for the last 40 years. The closeness of the local Rural Fire Service shed may be a factor as to why fires have not created more problems than have occurred in the past. A formal fire Risk Management Plan would ensure the protection of existing values and properly address the needs of vulnerable vegetation communities, as well as heritage items and features in the Reserve. The Lithgow Rural Fire Service (RFS) is in the process of reviewing and updating their current Bushfire Risk Management Plan. These planning documents outline procedural requirements for managing vegetation, and cultural and heritage items. The NPWS Register of Assets determines what assets are within a given landscape, and outlines the form of management required to be undertaken to ensure their health and longevity. The RFS has formally expressed a desire and invitation for Council to participate in the development stage of this and further continue into the implementation stage to assist with the ongoing management of fire, safety and conservation and protection of natural assets in the Reserve.


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3.2 Cultural Heritage Both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people place cultural values on natural areas, including aesthetic, social, spiritual, and recreational values. Cultural values may be attached to the landscape as a whole or to individual components, for example to plant and animal species used by Aboriginal people. This plan of management aims to conserve both natural and cultural values. Aboriginal communities have an association with and connection to the land. The land and water biodiversity values within a landscape are central to Aboriginal spirituality and contribute to Aboriginal identity. Aboriginal communities associate natural resources with the use and enjoyment of foods and medicines, caring for the land, passing on cultural knowledge and strengthening social bonds. Aboriginal heritage and nature are inseparable from each other and need to be managed in an integrated manner across the landscape.

3.2.1 Aboriginal Heritage Aboriginal cultural heritage consists of places and objects that are of significance to Aboriginal people because of their traditions, observances, customs, beliefs and history. It is evidence of the lives of Aboriginal people right up to the present. Aboriginal cultural heritage is dynamic and may comprise physical (tangible) or non-physical (non-tangible) elements. For Aboriginal people, the significance of individual features is derived from their inter-relatedness within the cultural landscape. The broader Lithgow region borders on the Aboriginal Nations of the Wiradjuri and Gundungurra peoples (and Dharug further to the northeast). Their descendants continue to live in the area or have an association with the area (Lithgow City Council, 1998). The Gundungurra Tribal Council indicates occupation and use of the Coxs River catchment prior to European settlement. There were possibly up to fourteen named bands occupying fourteen countries in Gundungurra traditional homelands. The “Therabulat” clan is believed to have occupied the Middle Coxs River including the Kanimbla, Hartley and Megalong Valleys down to Kowmung River junction, with the “Wywandy” occupying the northern catchment of the Upper Coxs River including Pipers Flat, Portland, and Wallerawang. “Therabulat” is believed to be an Aboriginal place name for the district and for the Coxs River. Neighbouring language groups were the Dharug to the east and larger Wiradjuri in the west. Hyde Park Reserve has high traditional and contemporary significance for Aboriginal people. The Wiradjuri people claim value and significance of the area, particularly within Hyde Park Reserve, with some members of the Wiradjuri community maintaining a strong connection with the Reserve and surrounding area. Wiradjuri Tribal Elders are undertaking an inspection of a number of areas in the catchment in 2008 in order to undertake an inventory of items and areas of significance. Around 577 Aboriginal sites and features are currently listed for the area on the Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS), managed by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) Cultural Heritage Services Division. A further 155 sites have been added to the register recorded with Lithgow City Council in the period from 2005 to 2007, up from the previous reporting period when the amount of recorded sites was 422. Due to past usage and this increasing identification and discovery of artefacts and sites, it is highly likely that many additional sites remain undetermined and unregistered.


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There is much evidence of Aboriginal use through the whole of the Cox’s River catchment and in the Hartley Valley. A large number of sacred and significant sites record early European and Aboriginal interactions, including interracial marriages, forced relocations, employment and conflicts. The early explorer Charles Wentworth recorded the discovery of a deserted campsite on the River Lett, which included the remains of campfires and scattered fresh flowers.

Table 7: Recorded Aboriginal Sites in the Local Government Area Site Feature Number of Features

Aboriginal Resource and Gathering 1 Aboriginal Ceremony and Dreaming 2 Art (pigment or engraved) 57 Artefact 287 Burial 4 Ceremonial Ring (stone or earth) 2 Grinding Groove 35 Potential Archaeological Deposit (PAD) 9 Stone Arrangement 5 Stone Quarry 2 Modified Tree (Carved or Scarred) 15 Water Hole 3 Total number of features 2006 422 Total number of sites and/or features 2007 577

(State of the Environment Report 2006, 2007) There is a report in the Lithgow Mercury dated May 31 1957, of the discovery of Aboriginal remains in the sandy banks of the River Lett, 1km upstream at ‘Londonderry Reserve’, thereby causing speculation that the reserve may have been a traditional burial site. There are reports of an aboriginal art site in upper Blackman’s Creek, downstream of the Reserve, containing a motif of a row of red ochre painted dancing men, as well as hand stencils. Behind one of the nearby Inns is a rock shelf containing 57 axe-grinding grooves. (Dave Lovegrove, unpublished report 1995). Hyde Park is reported to be an open scatter, occupation and tool-making site with large numbers of scattered stone tools with rich deposits of flakes and chert showing in the eroded soil indicating long occupation and evidence of hours spent striking rocks to obtain a sharp cutting edge. The nearest source of these chert rocks is Mt Victoria near the Pass. There are also axe-grinding grooves to be found on the granite bed of the river. It is reported that some areas of the Reserve may have special significance for men while other areas may be quite significant for women (S. Riley, pers. comm. 2006). Lithgow City Council engaged a consultant in late 2007 to undertake a heritage assessment of Hyde Park Reserve in order to determine some of these values. To assess the archaeological significance of a site requires an understanding of the surrounding archaeological context. Knowledge regarding the archaeological context of an area relies on the level and amount of investigation which has been undertaken previously. Scholarly research, archaeological consultancy reports and past site recordings inform our understanding of archaeological context. To locate previous site recordings in the area a routine search of the DECC Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) was undertaken as part of the archaeological assessment.


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Seven archaeological sites have been reported to NSW DECC within 5 kilometres of Hyde Park Reserve. The majority of these sites are open artefact scatters, sometimes referred to as open campsites. One isolated find was also registered with NSW DECC. These sites contain between 1 and 100 flaked stone artefacts. The flaked stone artefacts were made from three rock types, chert, silcrete and quartz. All of the sites reported are within 500m of a watercourse and range in area from 15 to 600 square metres (excluding the isolated find). Table 8: Hyde Park with current survey results for Hyde park, and other sites in the local area. Site

Site Type

Number of Artefacts

Stone Types (raw materials)

Area (metres squared)

Distance from Water (metres)

- Isolated find 1 Not stated na 500 -

Open Artefact Scatter Not stated Chert and silcrete 15 Not stated

- Open Artefact Scatter

10 Chert and silcrete 15 100


Over 100 Mainly chert, some quartz

600 100


20-30 Chert and quartz 225 100


10-15 Mainly chert, some quartz

150 300

Hyde Park Reserve

Open Artefact Scatter

154 Silicified tuff and quartz

4,360* 5

* Exposed track only, site extent likely to be larger, but covered in vegetation. The occurrence of a site registered in AHIMS is located within Hyde Park Reserve. This site was recorded as an open artefact scatter (campsite) by a NSW NPWS officer in 1982. The site card indicates that the area was being used as a picnic ground and that motor vehicle use within the Reserve was causing substantial erosion of the area.

Further planning and management strategies could incorporate the formation of a Cultural Heritage Management Plan that would allow for consultation with the relevant indigenous stakeholders. This Plan could assist with recommendations for guiding future works in the Reserve, and planning for activities in a culturally sensitive and respectful way within the Reserve.

Figure 21: Archaeological Survey undertaken in January 2008 in consultation with relevant Indigenous stakeholders


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3.2.2 Non-Aboriginal Heritage In 1813 the Australian explorers Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson, successfully navigated crossing across the Blue Mountains Plateau allowing access to the lands of the west. They descended the western escarpment of the Blue Mountains by cutting a track known as Lawson’s Long Alley into the town of Hartley Vale crossing into the broader Hartley Valley and River Lett. Lawson’s Journal from May 28 and 29, 1813 records their descent from Mt York ‘through open meadow land clear of trees and covered with grass two and three feet high’. They camped beside a fine stream of water – the River Lett – to rest and refresh their horses. They had entered grazing country, and “found the climate very different from either the top of the Mountains or the settlement on the other side…”

Hyde Park Reserve

The Lett River was crossed and named by the surveyor George Evans in 1813 en route to Bathurst, who recorded it in his journal as the "Riverlett", meaning the Rivulet. The present name of the River is attributed to this reference. Governor Lachlan Macquarie originally named the valley the ‘Vale of Clwydd’ in 1815.

HISTORIC GLENROY COX’S RIVERBy W.L. Havard and B. T. Dowd

In 1830, Sir Thomas Mitchell proposed a site (now ‘Hartley Historic Site’) on the Great Western Highway and River Lett (2kms downstream of Hyde Park), along the new road between Mt. Victoria and Bathurst. The village grew around a courthouse, and administrative headquarters of the district from 1837 to 1887, with the township becoming the centre for all government activities including police, judiciary, control of convict labour, and postal services. Considerable expansion took place with the discovery of gold in the Bathurst area in the 1850s when Hartley became a staging point between Sydney and Bathurst offering accommodation and change of horses. By the 1860’s the local district population was over 1,000 and Hartley itself had a population of about 130. In addition to the valley being primarily utilized for grazing purposes since the 1820’s, by 1860 a large shale-mining industry had also developed in Hartley Vale from which kerosene was extracted. Ore was carried by horse and cart to the railway, thence by rail to Sydney for refining. Following the extension of the railway to Bowenfels (near Lithgow), a narrow-gauge line was constructed from the main rail line on the Darling Causeway into the valley, and the valley's operations extended. Lithgow Valley’s first European settlers arrived some 12 years after Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson in 1824. In 1877, (Historic) Hartley village was by-passed by the Main Western Railway, which resulted in economic stagnation and decline for the village. With the higher demand for coal and decline in shale, as well as the considerable expansion of industry within the Lithgow Valley, the Hartley Valley predominantly became large farms, local industry and grazing properties. Early botanists such as Allan Cunningham were important collectors of Australian flora, accompanying Oxley and several other major exploration expeditions. Cunningham has a close association with the Hartley area, having traversed it several times en route to and


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from Bathurst, and collecting many hundreds of plants in the area. Allan Cunningham was the first collector of both Grevillea rosmarinifolia and Asterolasia buxifolia. In a letter to his brother Richard, Cunningham recommends a visit to the grassy flat of the military depot (known as ‘Glenroy’, downstream of Hyde Park Reserve and the Hartley Historic Site) where Governor Macquarie rested in 1815. Grevillea rosmarinifolia was to be found "on the flat at Cox's River just below the Military depot on the immediate bank of that stream..... if not destroyed by cattle". He collected at least 450 specimens of plants, many of which are named after him including the River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamii). An examination of the original collectors and describers of the flora and fauna of the Blue Mountains and the whole of the Cox's River valley repeatedly turns up the names of Allan Cunningham and his brother Richard.

3.3 Landscape Values and Visual Amenity 'Landscape' has ecological, scenic, and cultural meaning. While there are common elements between all three, there are also some significant differences - scenic landscape includes the properties of the land, such as landform, landcover, slope, and land use, arising from a number of natural and cultural processes. Visual amenity is a measure of the visual quality of an area as experienced by visitors and is the collective impact of the visual components that contribute to the visual pleasantness and character of an area. Protecting landscape values can often help to protect a range of other environmental services. Landscape values often have an association with environmental and natural resource quality: the values that people appreciate in a landscape are often also important ecologically. There are strong cultural ties to landscape and feelings for the visual beauty of an area, as there are links between healthy landscapes and healthy lifestyles through the recreational opportunities they provide The topography and natural vegetation within the Hartley Valley provides the character of a lightly populated rural community surrounded by steep, well-vegetated mountains serving as a backdrop to the valley. This character of the area provides a quality of life to residents as well as the image of the council LGA to visitors. In such a rural situation, the character is influenced by land use and management practices. The land use planning strategies set out in the urban and rural sections of Lithgow City Council’s Strategic Plan aim to minimise inappropriate land uses. The preservation of such features in their natural state is an intrinsic part of maintaining and enhancing the character of the area. Although the original extent of vegetation cover across the valley-floor is reduced due to historic land clearing, the scenic amenity of remnant trees and pockets of native vegetation and rolling hills and paddocks of green pasture still afford aesthetic value and present a diverse contrast between each other. These pockets or islands of native vegetation remaining are significant remnants of vegetation communities providing connectivity and important refuge and habitat for native fauna. The native vegetation that is the riparian corridor of the River Lett forms a significant connecting corridor through the Hartley Valley between escarpment vegetation to the north (Clarence, Dargan and Bell), east (Darling Causeway and Mt York), west (Hassans Walls Reserve), and larger remnants of both terrestrial and riparian bushland further downstream into the Coxs River Valley. In an area that is mostly farmland with few trees, Hyde Park Reserve provides a quiet and tranquil place for the enjoyment of visitors and locals alike. The reserve is well-vegetated with canopy trees in a woodland structure, providing ample shade and numerous flat and open areas to sit. The reserve is very quiet and peaceful.


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The definition of aesthetic condition and visual impact assessment and its subjective nature includes the response derived from the experience of the environment or particular natural and cultural attributes within it. This response can either be to visual or non-visual elements and can embrace emotional responses, sense of place, sound, smell and any other factors having a strong impact on human thoughts, feelings and attitudes.

3.4 Community Values and Social Profile Hyde Park has been a popular swimming hole, picnicking and camping area for the local community for many years. Within the last decade there has been an enormous increase in the usage of the reserve, with increasing numbers of people coming from farther away to use this as a recreational area. Nearby land subdivisions are increasing the local population near Hyde Park, and subsequent usage of the Reserve. The high number of users is telling of the popularity and value placed upon the Reserve by both the local community and visitors alike.

Figure 22: The swimming hole with granite backdrop No recorded baseline data exists to estimate the number of visitors/users that use the reserve throughout the year, or how much this accelerates throughout peak warmer periods in the year. Some recorded visitation numbers are included in Section 3.7.2. Car camping is a popular pastime as is day camping/picnicking. It is estimated that the majority of people visit the reserve by car, with the exception of local residents who are within walking distance from neighbouring properties. In the 90’s a River Lett Working Group formed in order to highlight issues and values associated with a number of public reserves on the River Lett, their uses and current state of management. Concerned members of the community, local residents and representatives from community groups formed this group. Approaches were discussed in regard to formulating strategies to help ameliorate degrading or damaging influences in the context of the entire River Lett subcatchment across a number of land tenures. One of the proposals at this time was to link the valley-floor reserves within the Hartley Valley to all of the surrounding escarpment lands from Mt York, along the darling Causeway through to Bell and further to Clarence, effectively forming a “Lithgow Regional Park”.


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In response to the rediscovery of Asterolasia buxifolia and Grevillea rosmarinifolia in 1999 and 2000, renewed interest saw the group reform in partnership with Council. Representation included state agencies (Department of Land & Water Conservation, NPWS, and Department of Lands), Royal Botanic Gardens, community networks (local Landcare Co-ordinator, aboriginal community) and a number of the same interested individuals. From 2000 until at least 2003, regular meetings were held at and chaired by Lithgow City Council. Minutes kept throughout that period records agenda items and associated actions, resulting in a grant application being prepared, a 10 page planning document (draft PoM) being drafted, specialist technical advice being sought and strategies being formulated. The then Environmental Manager, Mr Ian Gordon, applied for grant funds for the progression of a Plan of Management, in order to help address issues and formulate strategies that would help ameliorate increasing usage patterns and levels of damage occurring across the Reserves with particular focus on Hyde Park. The further progression of these actions (Table 1) brings us to the current day.

3.5 Educational Values Culturally important sites, objects and values of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal origin occur within Hyde Park as well as throughout the catchment, providing a record of human activities related to the natural features of the area. These features can be affected by the impacts of recreational activities, fire regimes, introduces species and deterioration resulting from erosion. There is increasing demand for access to and interpretation of Aboriginal sites for tourism and educational use. The proximity of many of these sites to expanding rural subdivision and development places additional pressure upon them requiring active management to ensure their conservation values are protected from the adverse effects of inappropriate use and overuse. Historic places have value for research, education and site interpretation and can be a significant visitor attraction. Within the last decade, a number of surveys have been undertaken in Hyde Park Reserve, resulting in a number of important discoveries in relation to flora species, namely by the RBG and NPWS. Amateur botanists and local enthusiasts have also assisted in the compilation of known values, heritage items, and flora and fauna. The local indigenous community with support from the National Parks and Wildlife Service has expressed a strong desire to install interpretive signage to assist with educating members of the general public in relation to the items and features of the Reserve that make it a culturally important place. Such informative signage would highlight these values and encourage Reserve users to amend some of their current ways of recreating within the Reserve. Lithgow TAFE students undertook a range of fauna surveys in 2004 as a part of Conservation and Land Management studies to help gauge some of the nocturnal mammal species utilizing the Reserve. Hyde Park lends itself to be able to provide highly informative and educational experiences for a broad range of user groups that could help extend and elaborate upon the current level of known information. An on-site community meeting held in December 2007 resulted in almost 30 participants attending in order to contribute to the values of Hyde Park, and issues arising. Survey information gathered from the day has assisted with compiling the draft Plan, and will be formulated further into this Plan of Management.


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3.6 Programs of Work A range of agencies have undertaken both funded programs of works, as well as various voluntary activities in recent years. These have been in order to assist with managing threats and impacts, as well as undertaking survey and assessment activities to help identify the values present within the Reserve.

3.6.1 Historic Known Works & Activities

Agency Program Scope of Works Year AmountNational Parks & Wildlife Service

- Survey of Aboriginal values through the valley

1982 -

Department of Lands

unknown contour banks, earthworks Early 90s -

Upper Macquarie County Council

Crown Lands funds

Blackberry control works Late 90s 2,000

Rural Lands Protection Board

- Rabbit control on adjacent lands. Reports of ferals in Reserve

ongoing -

National Parks & Wildlife Service

- Successful prosecution for native bird & egg poaching

2002 -

Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority (HNCMA)

River Health Program

Blackberry weed control 2005 2,000

Royal Botanic Gardens

- Surveying extent of threatened species

1999 ongoing

-

National Parks and Wildlife Service (DECC)

- Surveying extent of threatened species

2001 ongoing

-

Orchid Unit Canberra - Surveying 2000 - TAFE NSW (Lithgow campus)

- Fauna surveying (hair-tubes) and evidence detection

2004/5 -

NSW Department of Lands

Public Reserves Management Fund

Preparation of a Plan of Management

2005 10,000

3.6.2 Planned Programs of Works

Agency Program Scope of Works Year AmountHawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority and Lithgow City Council

LGAG V (Local Government Advisory Group)

Rehabilitation works (part of a broader 4-reserve River Lett project)

Applied 2006 Implement 07-08

Approx. 45,000 (150,000 total)

Rural Fire Service Partnered with Lithgow Council

Bushfire Risk Management Strategy

2008 -

Australian Museum Business Services

Lithgow City Council

Archaeological survey and assessment

2008 10,000

Upper Macquarie County Council

Partnered with Lithgow Council

Inspections, program if required 2007, ongoing

-

Rural Lands Protection Board

Partnered with Lithgow Council

Inspections, program if required 2007, ongoing

-

Future planned works are discussed further in more detail in Section 5.3.


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3.7 Current & Potential Impacts and Uses This section aims to identify the known activities occurring within, and uses of Hyde Park Reserve and adjoining Hyde Park Lane.

3.7.1 Surrounding Land Use and Subdivision Native vegetation provides many biodiversity values, in addition to scenic, environmental and educational ones. It provides habitat for plants, animals and micro-organisms, and helps provide food and habitat resources for aquatic life. It also provides shade, shelter and refuge for both domestic stock and native wildlife. Some of the benefits of native vegetation cover include the stabilisation of soil surfaces, minimising run-off, preventing erosion, filtering sediments, reducing soil compaction and helping maintain water quality.

Figure 23: The Hartley Valley viewed from the eastern escarpment of Hassans Walls Reserve. (Hyde Park is approximately centre-right, with the tree-lined Hyde Park Lane visibly extending to the right). The rural lands in the catchment have traditionally been substantial parcels of land, some dating back to original land grants from last century. Lands were mainly used for primary production as a means of income. The impacts of this initial land clearing and soil loss are still evident in much of the catchment. With increasing sub-division comes an increase of vegetation clearing for building and its associated activities that may promote soil instability and facilitate erosion and soil loss. There is also an association with the introduction of exotic plant species that have the potential to become invasive weeds, as well as an increase in the number of domestic animals that prey upon native faunal species. In addition, is the damming and extraction of water from aquatic systems that may or may not already be at or above their environmental capacity to support these further pressures. The increased fragmentation of native vegetation that results from land clearing generates secondary processes such as edge effects, degradation associated with rubbish dumping and overuse associated with increased access and weed invasion.


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Clearing of native vegetation has been listed as a Key Threatening Process (KTP) on Schedule III of the NSW TSC Act (1995). A KTP is a recognised threat to biodiversity, particularly threatened species. ‘Grassy Woodlands’ of the type found in Hyde Park occur on granite substrates on undulating terrain. Agriculturally suitable, these environments have sustained proportionally large reductions in extent, particularly in the Hartley Valley and surrounds. Key Threatening Processes listed on Schedule III of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) associated with this vegetation type are listed below, and include;

• Invasion of remnants by weed species, including noxious, pasture species and environmental weeds, including garden escapees, olives and pines.

• Deliberate plant introductions, in particular, the addition of legumes, grasses, shrubs

and trees

• Clearing, degradation and fragmentation of remnants for agricultural, forestry, infrastructure and residential development.

• Continuous heavy grazing and trampling of remnants by grazing stock, resulting in

losses of plant species (simplification of the groundlayer), erosion and other soil changes, including increased nutrient status.

• Application of intense defoliation regimes, in particular, too frequent burning or

slashing.

• Invasion of remnants by feral animals resulting in the degradation of the community and loss of fauna species.

• Disturbance and clearance of remnants during road, rail and infrastructure

maintenance and upgrades.

• Physical compaction of the soil, by people, stock and vehicles.

• Chemical changes to the soil by the application of fertilisers and lime, or from run-on of nutrients from adjacent sites

• Altered soil moisture conditions, including modified drainage

• Salinity and the associated remediation for salinity (i.e. exclusion of stock and tree

planting). The adjacent subdivision to the east of Hyde Park includes 12 lots in total. Four of these back onto the Crown Rd access to Hyde Park Reserve, one abuts the entire eastern boundary of the Reserve, and five have frontage onto the River Lett directly upstream of Hyde Park. Access gates have been installed in these five lots as a part of the newly constructed boundary fences. Existing subdivided blocks that back onto Hyde Park Lane have also installed both pedestrian and vehicle access gates onto the Crown Road. There is evidence of increases in vehicle traffic to access the rear of properties resulting in soil compaction, the trampling of native vegetation and the subsequent retention of water in a number of large areas on the road after rain. Domestic animals observed using the bushland corridor leave droppings and mark territories with their scent that may affect native animal movements from marked ‘predator’ smells. Both dogs and cats can potentially predate upon native wildlife quite readily


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within this narrow linear corridor of vegetation. The collection of ground-timbers from Hyde Park Lane is also apparent, either with the intention of ‘cleaning-up’, to reduce a perceived fire hazard, or collected for firewood. These incremental incursions reduce both biodiversity and habitat.

3.7.2 Reserve Access An identified issue associated with the overall and ultimate management of Hyde Park Reserve is the unsealed 1.7km Crown Road access to the Reserve (Hyde Park Lane), and the responsibility for its ultimate management and maintenance. Hyde Park Lane is currently the only formed vehicle access to Hyde Park Reserve. The Department of Lands has no obligation to maintain or manage this road in the Lithgow Council LGA. Lithgow City Council Policy #10.13 ‘CROWN ROADS – MAINTENANCE’ approved in October 2006 outlines Councils position in regard to the maintenance of crown roads; whereby:-

• Council will not maintain Crown Roads within its local government area unless the landholders receiving the benefit of the Crown Road, enter into a Work at Owners Cost arrangement and pay Council for the maintenance works.

Figure 24: ‘Hyde Park

Lane’ Looking

north toward

the Reserve

entrance

The 1.7km long Hyde Park Lane is tree-lined with a number of hollow-bearing mature trees, and supports a diverse understory of shrubs and groundlayer plants in many parts. Fallen timbers, leaf litter and ground debris is present on the ground. This linear corridor is in relatively good condition overall, and connects native vegetation to broader remnants to the north through the reserve, disjunct pockets to the west along the River Lett, and isolated pockets and stands further to the south. Hyde Park, the River Lett corridor and adjoining Hyde Park Lane are significant valley-floor corridors of remnant native vegetation remaining in the Hartley Valley.


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The large increase in popularity of Hyde Park Reserve has resulted in a frequent and high amount of traffic. The highest known record of parked cars at one given time in a summer period is 21 vehicles, and numbers of people in and around the River, or picnicking in the Reserve, over the same season at one given time was approximately 32 (T. Williams pers. comm., 2001). Anecdotal reports from adjacent neighbours estimate the number of vehicles accessing the Reserve within a 24-hr period during summer 2003, including at night-time, to be approximately 50 vehicles. The high and frequent use of Hyde Park Lane is resulting in damage caused by vehicles utilizing the road which is narrow, with many inroads into bushland being created by parking and turning, soil compaction occurring and the creation of muddy, boggy overused and denuded areas.

Figure 25: Hyde Park Lane during rain in January 2008 making the road un-manageable for traffic, and overflowing into adjacent propertiesPhoto: courtesy B. Cutting

Further investigations should be undertaken to resolve these issues, and may include but not be restricted to;

• Light grading of the natural terrain • Slightly crowning the track

formation to establish surface and cross fall drainage

• Establishing cross-banks and/or

mitre drains or comparable effective devices to control water and sediment run off

• Placement of gravel, road base or

stones to stabilise the track formation or fill potholes

• Traffic-calming devices and

signage Figure 26: Erosion at the Reserve entrance


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There is little opportunity afforded for vehicles to pass safely alongside each other, with many cars travelling at high-speed creating dust and safety issues for pedestrians and/or stock movement through the corridor. The midstorey vegetation restricts vision along much of Hyde Park Lane resulting in a number of ‘close-calls’ and creating a high potential for accidents. A series of signs denoting the purpose set aside for legitimate users of the road, as well as speed limit signs, and/or traffic calming devices could assist with slowing traffic. The road reserve, as a natural terrain road is available to provide legal access to crown reserves, and

is available as a means of public access for;

• Pedestrians • By horseback, or vehicles

(where possible), and • to drive stock

The financial implications of a person or animal being struck by a vehicle may have serious repercussions for users of the road. Adequate signage may help to alleviate and avoid this.

Figure 27: Loss of soil and vegetation in the entrance to the Reserve The current boundaries of the southern section of Hyde Park Reserve have historic incursions from both the neighbouring land and the Reserve into each other’s properties. Historic clearing and the installation of fence-lines have delineated incorrect boundaries between the two properties. This has resulted in a section of what is considered part of Hyde Park, belonging to the neighbour, and areas under pasture being a part of the Reserve. Opportunities exist to redress and resolve this issue, outlined further in Section 4.0 and 5.3. Figure 28: Western boundary of Hyde Park Reserve requires re-surveying and re-installation of new fencing


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3.7.3 Recreational Activities People currently use this area with impunity for a myriad of purposes. Recreational activities impact on the natural and cultural values of the reserve through: trampling of vegetation; formation of new trails; erosion; disposal of human waste and rubbish; formation of campsites and stone fire rings; increased risk of wildfire from escaped campfires; dislodgment of rock; damage to sites of cultural significance; and disturbance to native fauna. Camping The Reserve is a popular day picnicking area, with campfires started primarily for cooking. The Reserve is also a popular overnight camping area, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Figure 29: New fireplaces are regularly established through the Reserve as campers set-up away from other Reserve users

The result of these activities has been observed to include the reduction in ground-timbers collected for camp-fires which diminishes native faunal habitat, and the compaction of soil and trampling of vegetated areas where people set-up camp away from other Reserve users. Camping poses a number of potential health and sanitation risks through the high number of users, ignorance of ‘low-impact’ bushwalking/camping procedures and lack of amenities or facilities. Toileting areas are sometimes left exposed, attracting flies and vermin. Rubbish around camps and food scraps can attract vermin and scavenging animals. Broken glass left around campsites and in the swimming hole either around the rocks or at the bottom of the pool, create safety risks and fire issues. Clearing for camping denudes native vegetation, compacts soils from concentrated use of the area, and creates an environment more susceptible to weed invasion.

Figure 30: Felled timber, denuded native vegetation, dislodged rocks and soil compaction


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River Lett

Existing network of vehicle tracks

Existing contour banks and earthworks

Existing fencelines

Figure 31: Existing features in Hyde Park Reserve


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Firewood Collection The collection of ground-timber for firewood physically removes habitat for many invertebrates and alters the structure of the ground layer. This affects the use of habitat by ground dwelling species. The establishment of fireplaces removes rocks as well as surrounding ground timbers and leaf litter removing many components necessary to maintain important microclimates in what is already a restricted niche.

Figure 32: Live and dead timbers cut

for campsite seats

Standing trees and ground timbers being collected for firewood has been observed for use both on-site, as well as use off-site with trees being felled, cut with chainsaws and taken from site in/on vehicles. The diversity in user groups appears to range from those who collect locally from what is lying around on the ground, to those bringing chainsaws and machetes to lop vegetation as seats and/or firewood and those removing timber from site. Vandalism Although perhaps not intentional, the felling of trees and vegetation from within the Reserve could be interpreted as a deliberate act of vandalism.

It is an offence to clear remnant native vegetation or protected regrowth under the Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NV Act) unless the clearing is a permitted activity. Fire

At least three localised fires have occurred in recent years because of neglected campfires not adequately extinguished. A regular camper in the Reserve successfully doused the fires before they could escape into bushland and ‘get away’. Wildfire does not appear to have occurred in the main body of the Reserve for a long time, so would probably contain a high level of combustible and available fuel. Local concern has been raised in relation to the need for the effective implementation of an adequate Bushfire Management Plan that manages both Hyde Park Reserve and adjacent lands.

Figure 33: Recently cut native vegetation near the River


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3.7.4 Unrestricted Vehicle Use Hyde Park is showing signs of environmental deterioration as a result of unregulated vehicle access, increasing levels of use and lack of adequate maintenance. Impacts include erosion and soil loss, soil compaction, loss of vegetative cover, lack of regeneration, and reduction of available habitat.

Figure 34: As existing tracks become untraffickable (right), vehicles make new access roads over regenerating woodland vegetation exacerbating the issue of compaction, erosion, and soil and vegetation loss. Increasing access for recreational pursuits and direct River access is leading to the increased erosion of soils, introduction and spread of introduced plant species, formation of tracks and trails, damage to native vegetation, and the dumping of rubbish. Adventure activities in natural areas have increased dramatically in popularity and are associated with a number of issues, including the proliferation of tracks. Four-wheel off-road driving, trail bike riding and uncontrolled vehicle activity is having damaging environmental impacts, as well as potentially posing a threat to safety. The loss of vegetation and subsequent soils is exposing cultural artefacts and washing them away.


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4-Wheel-Driving Anecdotal information and direct observations indicate an increasing number of recreational vehicles (4-WD and some trail bikes) accessing Hyde Park Reserve. It is accepted that a number of these are using access for the low impact purpose such as getting to the swimming area and parking, and camping. However, there are groups and individuals that use the Reserve for recreational driving. The issue stems from two factors:

• Use of the area by growing numbers of vehicles in ignorance of particular values or the needs of other users (highlighting the need for adequate and informative signage);

• Use of the area by vehicles driven in an anti-social and aggressive manner

The principal issue contains a number of sub-issues:

• Conflicting uses • Vehicle/pedestrian • Vehicles/natural values such

as flora and fauna • Human use/damage to

natural systems and cultural items

• Legal use/uncontrolled potentially illegal use

• Concentration of vehicle impact in ‘favoured’ areas such as close to the River

Figure 35: 4WD vehicles bogged in wetter times in mid 2007 received assistance from excavators, who also became bogged requiring additional excavators Rubbish Dumping The site is prone to occasional rubbish dumping. Given the distant vicinity from development, and the sometimes wet, boggy, difficult access and terrain in order to be out of eye’s view, the Reserve attracts very few incidences of dumping. Most litter and rubbish is left behind from day picnics and camping activities and appears to be a minor but ongoing problem. Leftover food scraps and rubbish could pose a risk or harm to native animals and human health, as well as encouraging the additional dumping of rubbish. Facilities There are no toilet facilities in the Reserve, and at peak usage periods there are likely to be sanitation problems for the land area, the River and human health. Wildlife Poaching In 2004 prosecutions by NPWS were successful in prosecuting two people caught poaching bird eggs and young from nests and hollows from within the Reserve. Local NPWS staff were alerted by neighbour reports and by Reserve users. It is suspected this was not an isolated incident.


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3.7.5 Drainage, Erosion and Water Quality The site is being impacted by fragmentation from vehicle tracks, which is contributing to sedimentation and erosion problems, soil compaction and a reduction in water quality. Development and use of tracks creates different degrees of disturbance and habitat destruction. Uncontrolled vehicle activity and parking in the open grassy understorey has resulted in several denuded areas and is creating further inroads and opportunities for the invasion of weeds. Vehicles are heavily impacting upon the health of the native vegetation, and integrity of the soil profile.

Figure 36: Previous earthworks compromised by vehicle activity

The majority of erosion problems are predominantly occurring as a result of inappropriately placed tracks, with their over-use is contributing to the compaction of soils, and effectively dividing woodland vegetation communities on the site. The vehicle track to the river at the western end is heavily used. Steeper sections of the track down to the river are actively eroding. This is being exacerbated by continued vehicle access to the water’s edge. Erosion and sediment loss begins at the highest point in the landscape, that being the entrance to the reserve. This continues along the entire length of the downhill sections of the track, ending on the River flat (Figure 28). Soil compaction can significantly contribute to tree dieback reducing biodiversity and faunal habitat, and posing safety risks. Cultural artefacts are subsequently being compacted and lost, or washed away, and lost. Figure 37: Sands and sediment depositing on the River flat. Vehicles currently traverse this track loop.


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Figure 38: Looking south (upslope away from River) 2005

Previous conservation earthworks are still evident through the Reserve, but require immediate attention to re-instate their effective function. Two years of vehicle access over the top of the structure (contour bank across top of slope), is seeing the works failing. Vegetation cover is significantly diminished and erosion is forming gullies on the slope. Large amounts of soil and sand is being lost from the site.

Figure 39: Looking south (upslope away from River) 2007


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3.7.6 Signage There is currently a poor community appreciation for or understanding of permissible and non-permissible uses within many of the public reserves throughout the LGA due to the absence of signage. At the beginning of Hyde Park lane is a 200mmx300mm Crown sign on a corner post on the left-hand side of the turn right onto the Crown Rd entrance that can easily be overlooked, or assumed to belong to the neighbouring property stating ownership and non-permissible activities. The next prominent sign is attached to the almost unhinged upside-down gate at the entrance to the reserve, which is sitting parallel to what is now two side-by-side vehicle entrances. The former entrance on the right has since been abandoned due to erosion issues and difficulty in traversing for most vehicles (except 4WDs), in favour of a more recently made access on the left where fencing has been cut to allow vehicle access. The gate reads ‘Please Shut Gate’ and was intact and closed up until the Reserve ceased being under a grazing lease in 1997. Since that time the popularity and increased usage of the Reserve has dramatically increased.

Figure 40: The previous lease and gate reduced the numbers of Reserve users. Since 1997, numbers have increased substantially and the gate has been wrecked. Suitable signage illustrating permissible activities, which direct people to other reserves, needs to be installed in order for the community to assist with the protection of the area by being able to recreate appropriately within the Reserve. An inventory of lookouts, picnic areas, camping areas and reserves needs to be established to help determine the appropriate facilities, signage and infrastructure required to accommodate visitors and determine the carrying capacity of this reserve. Such an inventory could also assist in directing people accordingly to accommodate their desired activity type.


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3.8 Introduced Species There are a number of introduced plant and animal species that are threatening the values of natural areas in the catchment. Introduced plants and animals can seriously impact upon biodiversity values by modifying species richness and abundance, and ecosystem function. They can also have significant impacts on the economic and social values of neighbouring areas. Exotic plants have been introduced in a variety of ways, for example as crops, pasture and as garden plants. Some have become so well established that they have spread to the bush, where without predators, they have thrived. A number of exotic plants spread rapidly and aggressively. When they become established, they will out-compete native plants for food, water and sunlight, eventually destroying the natural habitats and food sources for native plants and animals, and altering the soil balance and fire regimes of natural areas. Exotic plants can rapidly invade disturbed sites and compete with native plants for space, nutrients and sunlight. They do not always provide the food or shelter that native animals need and may provide shelter for invasive species such as feral rabbits and foxes. ‘Feral’ is used to refer to animal species that are domesticated but which have been able to establish wild populations. Feral animals in Australia are mainly domestic animals that have gone wild, many originally introduced either for sport, as pets, or as livestock and pack animals. These include predatory vertebrates such as foxes, cats, dogs, grazing and browsing animals such as sheep, cows, goats and feral pigs, insects such as the introduced honeybee, exotic fish and fungus such as Phytophthora cinnemomi. Feral animals prey on native species, compete for food and shelter or destroy habitat, while others can spread disease. Our native animals evolved in relative isolation from other countries, and are particularly vulnerable to introduced animals. Feral animals can carry the same common diseases as their domestic cousins and may be a constant source of reinfection for wildlife and livestock. The impact from cats, dogs and foxes may be considerable on mammals, lizards and birds. Feral or straying grazing animals such as sheep, goats and cattle impair the regeneration of native vegetation, change species composition, accelerate soil erosion, and create environments favourable for colonisation by introduced plants and aid in their spread. Feral animals are potential carriers of diseases such as rabies, foot and mouth disease, and parasites such as the screwworm fly. An outbreak among Australia’s wildlife would have an immediate and widespread effect, and be disastrous for our environment. In some cases, it would also be very difficult to control these diseases and parasites if feral animals carried them.


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3.8.1 Plants The spread of weeds changes the community composition of vegetation, which can result in changes to resource availability and to physical structure. In the area furthest from the river, where the access track initially enters the reserve, there is a heavy invasion of pasture grasses and minor occurrences of blackberry. These would have been introduced from adjacent paddocks, by stock and by birds. Grass weeds and herbaceous plants in these drier areas are beginning to encroach throughout the understory and in frequently used areas. Exotic plant species impacting upon the site are relatively few at Hyde Park reserve, and are limited to predominantly weed grasses and Blackberry brought in by vectors such as machinery, dogs, people, and birds. Wind blown weed seeds will always be attracted to open and disturbed areas with the majority of these weeds primarily chasing major disturbances such as tracks used regularly by vehicles. Further in-roads into undisturbed bush are less dense, and contain scattered individuals. Pasture grasses and some herb-layer weeds particularly in the northwestern section of the Reserve heavily compromise native vegetation towards the river. With a marked increase in the frequency of native vegetation, especially in rocky areas protected from historic or current disturbances, exotic vegetation decreases. The cliff slopes are predominantly native, with few exotic grasses and minor occurrences of Blackberry.

Figure 41: Adjacent property with Patersons Curse in flower amongst pasture grasses. Weeds that are present in the Reserve are listed in Table 8. Also noted are introduced plant species upstream of the reserve or directly adjacent to the Reserve. The list includes the control categories for those species declared noxious under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 in the Lithgow LGA. An inspection undertaken by the Local Control Authority (LCA), the Upper Macquarie County Council (UMCC) on the 15th November 2007, noted the results from previous control works, and encouraged the annual inspection and possible treatment for noxious weeds to prevent their re-infestation, of Blackberry in particular.


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Upstream at Londonderry Reserve and on upstream properties are increasing densities of Japanese Honeysuckle growing in the River. This weed is most effectively bird dispersed, but also effectively dispersed by water. Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) and Gorse (Ulex europaeus) are also present here. Given that Hyde Park is within flying distance and downstream of these weed source points, they have the potential to pose a significant threat to the integrity of riparian vegetation at Hyde Park. In November 2007 the Invasion and Establishment of Scotch Broom, Cytisus scoparius, was listed under state legislation as a key threatening process (KTP) in Schedule III of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. A Key Threatening Process is a recognised threat to biodiversity, particularly threatened species. Table 8: Noxious & Environmental Weeds occurring within and adjacent to Hyde Park Reserve

Common Name

Botanic name

Location

Control Category

African Lovegrass Eragrostis curvula Londonderry Reserve Crown Rd entrance roadside and adjacent eastern and southern properties

4

Blackberry

Rubus fruticosus aggregate species

Londonderry Reserve/ Hyde Park

4

Blowfly Grass

Briza major Hyde Park

Catsear

Hypochaeris radicata Londonderry Reserve/ Hyde Park

Cocksfoot

Dactylis glomerata Londonderry Reserve/ Hyde Park

Perennial Ryegrass

Lolium perenne Hyde Park

European Hairgrass Aira elegantissima Hyde Park Fleabane

Conyza sp. Hyde Park

Gorse

Ulex europaeus Londonderry Reserve 3

Japanese Honeysuckle

Lonicera japonica Londonderry Reserve

Monterey Pine

Pinus radiata Londonderry Reserve

Parramatta Grass

Sporobolus sp. Hyde Park

Patersons Curse

Echium plantagineum Adjacent western property to Hyde Park

Pigeon Grass

Setaria sp. Hyde Park

Purple Top

Verbena bonariensis Hyde Park

Scotch Broom

Cytisus scoparius Londonderry Reserve 4

Sheep Sorrel

Acetosella vulgaris Hyde Park

St John’s Wort

Hypericum perforatum Londonderry Reserve 4

Sweet Vernal Grass

Anthoxanthum odoratum

Hyde Park/adjacent properties

Yorkshire Fog

Holcus lanatus Londonderry Reserve/ Hyde Park


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3.8.2 Animals Predation by cats, dogs and foxes may be considerable on mammals, lizards, frogs and birds. Dogs, feral cats and foxes predate upon native fauna and compete with native predators. Rabbits graze on seedlings and regenerating shoots affecting native vegetation cover leading to erosion, and competing with native fauna for resources. In some areas rabbits ca also take over the burrows of native animals such as bandicoots. Introduced grazing animals impair the growth and regeneration of native vegetation, accelerate soil erosion, create environments favourable for colonisation by introduced plants, and assist their spread. Continued heavy grazing may provide opportunities for the establishment of introduced plants, which may reduce or eliminate some native plants resulting in a simplification of remnant vegetation. Introduced animals within the reserve such as the wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can have a significant impact on native species through predation and competition. Up to seven warrens were located through the reserve in an afternoon session in 2005 undertaken by a TAFE class from Lithgow campus. Evidence of foxes has been recorded in the Reserve, with numerous sightings up to and including the writing of this plan. Dense vegetation, even of weeds such as Blackberry, may constitute good faunal habitat.

The Rural Lands Protection Board (RLPB) has undertaken programs through this section of the Hartley Valley primarily for rabbit control, periodically addressing issues with foxes. Landholders bounding the site, particularly the northern side of the Reserve, have participated in previous programs undertaking rabbit control and management. The RLPB programs monitor for off-target species such as birds and wallabies amongst others.

Figure 42: A number of soft-jaw leg-holds and cage-trap In future planning, the RLPB is aiming to engage surrounding landholders to participate in an integrated eradication and management program to help ensure that the most effective and optimum outcomes can be achieved across the landscape, with all subcatchment land managers and owners invited to participate. There are no feral animal control programs currently in place for the Reserve. Neighbours have expressed an interest in continuing cooperative control programs with the RLPB including adjacent landholders and land managers. The RLPB recommend that Lithgow City Council participate in their annual integrated programs in the valley, and liaise throughout the years in relation to planned programs. Reserve users have been observed walking dogs both on and off-lead. Domestic animals may present both safety and environmental impacts. Dogs off-lead can react badly when startled or encouraged by other dogs. Droppings and scent-marking of territory can hinder the movement of native animals. If permissible within the Reserve, informative signage should clearly reflect this and encourage responsible pet management.


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3.8.3 Insects Feral and managed colonies of honeybees have been present in Australia for about 170 years, but their distribution and abundance has increased dramatically over the last 60 years. Figure 43: Remaining tree in Hyde Park Reserve that contained a large beehive in the branch The impact of introduced species on native populations is usually negative, however feral honeybees could produce potentially positive and negative effects on native plants and animals. Feral honeybees could enhance the seed production of a number of native plants whose native pollinators have declined

substantially due to a variety of factors. Conversely, feral honeybees can reduce the seed production of native plants and compete with native honeyeaters for nectar. These varying effects on the environment illustrate the importance of quantifying the impact of feral animals on native species before management decisions are made. If the impact is determined to be negative to the natural environment, then strategic control operations and appropriate management strategies are justified.

Figure 44: Feral honeybee hive in Hyde Park

3.8.4 Fungi and Pathogens Invasive diseases, fungi and parasites in Australia affect many native plants and animals and agricultural crops. Quite often when plants and animals have been exposed to introduced diseases, fungi or parasites they do not respond well to treatment. Some diseases have contributed to significant losses of species leading to some becoming threatened or extinct. Some of the diseases, fungi and parasites currently of concern because of their impact on native species include:

• Psittacine beak and feather disease (psittacine circoviral disease) • Chytrid amphibian fungus (Chytridiomycosis) • Root-rot fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi) Phytophthora root rot

Diseases, fungi and parasites can affect the health of native species, reducing their ability to reproduce or survive. Threatened species with reduced and restricted populations are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks caused by these introduced organisms. For threatened species even a small reduction in the number of individuals reaching adulthood, could lead to the eventual extinction of the species. Strict hygiene protocols and procedures should be followed for any activity around the threatened species of plants in the Reserve, as contamination could eliminate the already small populations occurring resulting in extinction.


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Hyde Park Plan of Management Part 4 – Issues and Opportunities


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4.0 Issues and Opportunities Part 4 outlines the management issues for the reserve, and lists opportunities for resolution of these issues.

4.1 Objectives to Protect and Enhance the Values of Hyde Park Reserve The following objectives have been outlined to address the issues occurring and have been included as a starting point to help guide for the future management of Hyde Park Reserve. Council’s objectives for this plan are to;

• Provide a framework for the effective and sustainable management of the Reserve; • Address and manage the use of the land which reflects community visions and

aspirations for the land; • Be consistent with Council’s visions and objectives for the city; • Adhere to the Principles of Crown land management • Protect and enhance the significant cultural attributes of the land; • Protect and improve native ecological communities (including habitat for threatened

species); • Control and prevent weed infestation; • Protect Aboriginal and European cultural sites within the reserve from degradation; • Mitigate off-reserve threats to the natural values of the reserve; and • Provide a strategy for any future maintenance, capital works and/or appropriate

infrastructure. Based upon an earlier draft plan prepared in 2003, as well as feedback received from the community and stakeholders, a number of specific on-ground options have been presented for consideration. When the Plan of Management is finalised, these will be collated and prioritised based upon immediate need, resources available and capacity.

• provide a stable and well-drained access • re-organise the parking area within the reserve • provide information and interpretive signage • provide and maintain day use facilities with appropriate equipment and furniture • provide a controlled walking track network • provide regular removal of litter • protect and promote the native vegetation through a regeneration program • protect and promote the native vegetation communities • identify and protect rare and threatened species • ensure recreational activities do not disturb habitats • implement a weed control program • develop and adopt a localised fire plan • provide adequate planning to control erosion, drainage and development


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4.2 Management Issues and Opportunities

4.2.1 Landform, Geology, Soils and Water

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Soil erosion occurs along all of the tracks becoming like drainage lines transporting sediments from the Reserve entrance extending to the River. Erosion problems in high use areas need to be addressed. Water quality and river health is compromised due to continuing input of soil, sands and sediment from eroding tracks An additional threat to water quality on the reserve is human waste. The upstream damming and water detention/extraction may impact upon native flora and fauna Heavy vehicle usage in Hyde Park is exceeding the carrying capacity of the Reserve

Soil erosion is reduced and significantly minimised. Water quality and health of River Lett is improved. Water quality and health of River Lett is improved. Human health hazards reduced Flow regime and inputs determined for future benefit of flora and fauna Reduction in vehicle numbers and associated pressures. Improved pedestrian accessibility and non-vehicle pursuits encouraged.

Undertake drainage and repair works on unnecessary vehicle tracks undertaking conservation earthworks and rehabilitation (eg; ripping & brushmatting) a series of earth/soft-engineered structures to slow water velocities and trap sediments to prevent further erosion. Undertake all works in a manner that minimizes erosion and water pollution. Rationalize and close existing tracks not directly necessary for access. Stabilisation, erosion and prevention of soil loss measures are implemented as a high priority. Limit vehicular access to the waters edge. Due to the presence of aboriginal artefacts, earthworks would require consultation with relevant stakeholders e.g. Local Aboriginal community representatives. Promote minimal impact bushwalking through on-site interpretation and signage, and directions to amenities and facilities on nearby reserves Hydrological assessment undertaken of potentially vulnerable or dependant species within Hyde Park Reserve An alternate walking track is surveyed approximately 1km long along the south bank of the River, with a low constructed stable walkway/path with signage through to Londonderry Reserve. Traffic-calming devices installed along tracks. Signage with speed limits denoting other types of users.


4.2.2 Native Plant and Animal Conservation

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Knowledge of fauna species occurring in the reserve is limited. The reserve is an island of remnant vegetation with the opportunity for native animal movement to and from the reserve primarily through the riparian corridor, and terrestrial movement along the crown road entrance and adjacent vegetated lands. Surrounding lands have introduced plant species, domestic animals and potential encroachment issues (e.g.; firewood collecting) Noxious weeds are invading from adjacent lands, upstream and from within the Reserve

Knowledge of native fauna is improved and significant species recorded in the reserve are adequately conserved Ecological processes continue with minimal human interference. Protect core bushland in reserve Regeneration of the riparian zone on the River Lett Control noxious weed problems to a level that permits indigenous vegetation to colonise and regenerate

Undertake a comprehensive fauna survey assessing existing and potential habitat components and evidence of fauna Work with neighbours and relevant government bodies to encourage conservation of remnant native vegetation on lands outside the reserve and the provision of wildlife corridors near the reserve. Ensure remnants remain connected or linked to each other by revegetating and regeneration enhancement works to act as stepping-stones for fauna, and flora (pollen and seed dispersal). Undertake bush regeneration and revegetation programs in the reserve’s riparian zone and assist neighbours with similar works where necessary Encourage regeneration by reinstating boundary fencing and undertaking supplementary planting as a native vegetation buffer to protect core bushland within the reserve Protect the site from illegal clearing and incremental ‘edge’ disturbances from adjacent lands through informative signage and penalty notice signs Reinstate boundary fencing and undertaking supplementary planting as a native vegetation buffer to protect core bushland within the Reserve Undertake inspections annually in relation to the implementation of noxious weed control a required under the Noxious Weeds Act Liaise with neighbours and Local Control Authority (UMCC)


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Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Asterolasia buxifolia could qualify under IUCN criteria as critically endangered. Grevillea rosmarinifolia is not protected by state legislation Two threatened species occur in populations in the riparian zone of the River Lett Address issue of native fauna habitat loss through firewood collection at Hyde Park. Introduced animals are competing with native fauna for resources. Unconsolidated access or parking is leading to the compaction of soil contributing to tree die-back and native vegetation trampling Erosion and sedimentation is severe on steeply grading areas, particularly access to the River

Significant flora species are better understood and preserved Vegetation in the riparian zone is not further compromised by human activities Habitat components are retained to maximise native faunal diversity and abundance Reduce competition and grazing pressure on native vegetation structure and species composition of plant populations in general. Limit dieback and soil compaction Native vegetation of minimum 40m established adjacent to the River

Undertake a baseline population study and monitoring plan to enable tracking of population trends and current and potential threat levels. Assess qualification for Grevillea rosmarinifolia to be listed. Access from points except those designated as the official Reserve entrance is prohibited. Locations of flora are not identified or promoted. Stop firewood collection through regular policing by Council rangers. Prohibit harvesting of firewood (this includes living or standing dead trees and fallen material). Leave fallen timber on the ground. Install signage describing ‘permissible uses & activities’ and penalties. Undertake an integrated feral animal control program (rabbits), using methods that do not disturb native plants and animals. Manage grazing pressure with future potential leases for stock and encourage neighbours to exclude stock from the riparian zone. Rationalise tracks; have clearly defined access, designated parking and pedestrian use areas with physical barriers and signage. Limit vehicular access by closing unnecessary tracks particularly those to the waters edge. Undertake remediation and regeneration works to reinstate an adequate native vegetation buffer to the River allowing safe pedestrian access. Install signage-describing rationale of works. Consider closing portions of the reserve at certain times of the year to allow regeneration to occur.


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4.2.3 Fire Management

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Fire is a natural feature of the environment of the reserve and is essential to the survival of some plant communities. Frequent or regular fire, however, can cause loss of particular plant and animal species and communities. Fire could damage cultural features and fences and threaten neighbouring lands Determine how site problems are to be prioritized Ensure protection of vegetation communities and threatened species

Life, property and natural and cultural values are protected from bushfire. Fire regimes are appropriate for conservation of plant and animal communities Cultural features and adjacent lands are protected from damage by fire. Development of a Fire Management Plan Vegetation communities and threatened species are protected from damage by fire.

Lithgow Council to participate in the Lithgow Bush Fire Management Committee. Maintain coordination and cooperation with Rural Fire Service brigades, Council fire control officers and neighbours with regard to fuel management and fire suppression. Suppress all unplanned fires in the reserve as soon as possible. Use prescribed fire to maintain or enhance the reserve’s biological diversity and to assist those flora species reliant on heat induced seed germination. Encourage further research into the ecological effects of fire in the reserve. Prepare a fire management strategy for the reserve that details life, property and natural and cultural resource protection strategies. Communication between Lithgow Council and local Rural Fire Service Initiate a study to determine a suitable fire regime for implementation that maximizes species diversity within each community in conjunction with the flora study on Asterolasia buxifolia and Grevillea rosmarinifolia


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4.2.4 Cultural Heritage

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

There are significant Aboriginal sites on the reserve, however these are poorly documented. There is a lack of understanding in the broader community of the significance of the area to the Aboriginal community. Aboriginal relics and artefacts are being lost due to erosion and soil loss Promote public understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural values and significance to Aboriginal people, and provide opportunities for appropriate research in accordance with Aboriginal cultural values

Aboriginal sites are surveyed and appropriately recorded so that they can be conserved and managed in accordance with their significance. The community’s understanding of the cultural significance of the reserve is improved. Aboriginal relics and artefacts are retained and conserved. Interpretation and educational activities undertaken to promote greater awareness and appreciation.

Coordinate a comprehensive survey of Aboriginal sites in consultation with the Local Aboriginal Land Council and relevant Aboriginal community organisations. Identify areas where recreational activities are directly affecting significant Aboriginal features or values and implement site protection measures if necessary. Prepare and implement a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) for the reserve. Consult and involve the Local Aboriginal Land Council and relevant organisations in relation to the management of Aboriginal sites, places and values. Interpret the cultural significance of the reserve in consultation with the Local Aboriginal Land Council and relevant Aboriginal community organisations and in line with the recommendations of the CHMP. Limit vehicular access by rationalising tracks including those steeper areas such as to the riverbank. Precede all new ground disturbance work in the reserve by an assessment for cultural features. Investigate funding opportunities that promote awareness of culture heritage both European & indigenous through activities organized by relevant local authorities. Install interpretative signage. Investigate the nomination and/or declaration of the Reserve as an ‘Aboriginal Area’. Aboriginal areas allow for the use of the area by Aboriginal people for cultural purposes.


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Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Identity of the Reserve (i.e. it’s name) is unclear and currently unknown Renaming of the Reserve to “Alan Cunningham Memorial Reserve” or a relevant aboriginal place name.

Origin of the name of the reserve identified Identity and name of the Reserve adequately reflects community desires

Comprehensively consult with the community Comprehensively consult with the community and relevant stakeholders as to the validity of the idea. Consult with the Geographical Names Board as to relevant steps to take.


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4.2.5 Visitor Use and Recreation

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Use of the reserve must be carefully managed since it is a relatively small and significant area of remnant vegetation. There are vehicular trails within the reserve, which are used as pedestrian foot-tracks. This could cause safety issues and could create environmental impacts inconsistent with protection of the reserve’s values. Bushwalking is a popular recreational activity in the reserve as is swimming; camping, picnicking and 4WD-ing.These activities may be damaging or impacting upon natural values and Aboriginal sites, places and values. No camping areas are provided and bush camping is impacting on water quality and other values. The provision of a designated camping area is not seen as necessary or desirable. Promotion of community understanding and appreciation of the conservation values and the legislative and policy framework guiding the management of the reserve is important for minimising damaging activities and maximising visitor enjoyment.

Visitor use is ecologically sustainable. Appreciation of the reserve’s natural and cultural values is promoted. Safety issues are eliminated and reduced. Public amenity is enhanced. The impact of recreational activities on natural and cultural values is minimised. Aboriginal sites, places and values are protected and conserved. The reserve is not promoted for recreation in publications or brochures. The local community is aware of the significance of the area and of management programs.

Install signage to inform and educate about reserve values and permissible activities Rationalize and rehabilitate vehicle tracks. Transform into walking access with a vantage area at the top of the gorge as a feature of interest. Install directional and interpretive signs at the entrance, along tracks and at culturally and / or environmentally sensitive areas. Assess the environmental impacts of recreation activities in the reserve and/or close some areas temporarily to allow regeneration. Restrict vehicular access to the River. Monitor the environmental impact of the abovementioned recreational activities on an annual basis, notwithstanding the recommendations of the CHMP. Implement additional controls or prohibit such activities if environmental impacts are unacceptable. Install interpretative signage. Ensure the reserve is not promoted in brochures or publications. Permit and encourage educational institutions to conduct activities that foster an appreciation for the natural and / or cultural values of the reserve.


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Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Use of the reserve by educational institutions and/or commercial operators has the potential to significantly impact the natural and cultural values Uncertain of visitation patterns or how many people visit this Reserve, or other natural areas in the LGA

Appreciation of the reserve’s natural and cultural values is promoted. An inventory of lookouts, picnic areas, camping areas and reserves is undertaken to help determine the facilities, signage and infrastructure required to accommodate visitors and determine the carrying capacity of reserves

Organise and initiate educational material with agencies, and maintain contact with neighbours and community organisations. Study into visitation patterns Assessment of natural assets register of Reserves in the LGA Categorisation of Reserves in the district Have the capacity to direct people accordingly to accommodate their desired activity type.

Risk management, occupational health and safety issues and liability unclear

Visitor safety is ensured Liability and responsibilities clear

Develop a checklist designed to provide a guide to the primary tasks required to manage on behalf of the community in a risk aware manner.

Develop an OH&S Risk Management Strategy

Develop signage that informs the public of hazards


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4.2.6 Future Management Opportunities

Issue

Desired Outcome

Opportunity

Community input into Reserve management and/or maintenance Southwestern boundary fence-line of Reserve and adjacent lands is inaccurate. Landholder is keen to investigate the re-instatement and formalisation of newly surveyed boundary Londonderry Reserve is more appropriate to act as an alternate camping place and day use area as it is more readily accessible. Adequate funds for ongoing programs of works into the future Maintenance responsibility for crown road an issue Zoning provisions adequate for protection of values in reserve

Facilitate input between local community groups, landholders and relevant agencies Create a feeling of stewardship within the local community Form a Landcare Group or utilise Greencorps and TAFE students, with a view to using this area as a project. Land-swap/trade-off with landowner is legally formalised Formally link Londonderry Reserve to Hyde Park with a walkway/footpath along the River Lett Adequate funds are budgeted to ensure ongoing program of works Road access issues resolved Future uses are compatible with zoning provisions and reserve purposes

Investigate community desire to become Trustees of the Reserve, and/opportunity for the community to act as an advisory group with interested stakeholders Promote through local networks with the production of educational material, pamphlets, and education at field-days. Possible projects could include walkway construction and associated trackwork, plantings and regeneration activities. Investigate the survey of the southern boundary of reserve keeping reserve paddocks for continued stocking and swap with intact native vegetation near entrance Liaise with Department of Lands, LCC, landholder and surveyors Install signage with maps and locations of alternate reserve areas, facilities and permissible uses within them Broaden and diversify the experience offered in these two Reserves, encouraging non-vehicle based recreation opportunities Investigate external grant funding partners to assist with future planned program of works Identify alternative access and/or other options in relation to the maintenance of Hyde Park Lane Investigate options for changing zoning, or the categorising as community land to afford comprehensive protection of Reserve values


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Dargan Creek Reserve 700ha Lithgow

Township

Figure 45: River Lett Catchment Public Reserves System

Hassans Walls Reserve Approx. 500ha

Londonderry Reserve 9ha Lockyer’s

Track Head Reserve 2ha

Hyde Park Reserve 18ha

Hartley Reserve 3.5ha

McKanes Falls Rd Reserve 2.3ha Mt York

Reserve


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Hyde Park Plan of Management Part 5 – Management Strategies


5. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS Part 5 brings together the proposed management opportunities and includes objectives, performance targets, strategies to achieve these and measures of success.

5.1 Vision for Plan of Management The management of Hyde Park Reserve is based on a vision statement shared by Lithgow City Council and the wider community and endorsed by the Department of Lands. The vision for Hyde Park Reserve is intended to inspire the Corporate Trust Manager (LCC), and provide a long-term ideal and focus for the future decisions affecting the Reserve. The Vision for Hyde Park Reserve is: “To retain, protect and enhance the unique and significant values of Hyde Park Reserve””

5.2 Management Principles and Objectives The following principles establish the broad direction that Lithgow City Council will follow in protecting and enhancing the values of Hyde Park Reserve to achieve the vision.

• To ensure that the Objects of the Act and the Principals of Crown land management are applied to the management of the reserve

• To encourage the active participation of locals and visitors in the, care development and long term management of the reserve

• To incorporate a management style that ensures the reserves viability, promotes cooperative decision-making and responds to legal, social, conservation and technological changes

• Provide a framework for the effective and sustainable management of the Reserve • Address and manage the use of the land which reflects community visions and

aspirations for the land • Be consistent with Council’s visions and objectives for the city • Protect and enhance the significant cultural attributes of the land • Protect and improve native ecological communities (including habitat for threatened

species) • Control and prevent weed infestation • Protect Aboriginal and European cultural sites within the reserve from degradation; • Mitigate off-reserve threats to the natural values of the reserve, and • Provide a strategy for any future maintenance, capital works and/or appropriate

infrastructure. It is recommended that ways be sought to combine the preservation of the reserve’s biodiversity and cultural heritage values combined with continued public use, to the extent feasible. The successful management of Hyde Park would not necessarily preclude continued recreational use of the site.


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5.3 Proposed Management 5.3 Proposed Management Hyde Park Reserve has no existing buildings built infrastructure or formalized structures. There are no buildings or other post-colonisation constructed assets in the Reserve. Feedback from the community and Reserve users have predominantly expressed a strong desire for the Reserve to remain this way. The area is not currently actively managed in the form of ranger patrols, rubbish collection or maintenance; although future planned management will include regular patrolling of the Reserve by Lithgow City Council Rangers.

Hyde Park Reserve has no existing buildings built infrastructure or formalized structures. There are no buildings or other post-colonisation constructed assets in the Reserve. Feedback from the community and Reserve users have predominantly expressed a strong desire for the Reserve to remain this way. The area is not currently actively managed in the form of ranger patrols, rubbish collection or maintenance; although future planned management will include regular patrolling of the Reserve by Lithgow City Council Rangers. Management considerations include the need to raise awareness of; Management considerations include the need to raise awareness of;

• visitor impacts, • visitor impacts, • visitor safety, user conflicts, and risks of accidents and injuries • visitor safety, user conflicts, and risks of accidents and injuries • maintaining recreation experiences appropriate to the natural setting • maintaining recreation experiences appropriate to the natural setting • impacts on natural and cultural heritage values • impacts on natural and cultural heritage values

In 2005, Lithgow Council as a part of the Local Government Advisory Group (LGAG) partnership funded by the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, successfully applied for funds to mitigate impacts occurring as a result of unrestricted recreational activities within a number of Reserves in the River Lett subcatchment. Planned works include the restriction of vehicles to the banks of the River, weed control, bush regeneration and revegetation works, the closure and rehabilitation of unnecessary tracks, the management of erosion and subsequent retention of cultural artefacts, and signage in the Reserves. This current program of works is intending to mitigate these impacts to a level that promotes the rehabilitation and sustainable ongoing use of the Reserve.

In 2005, Lithgow Council as a part of the Local Government Advisory Group (LGAG) partnership funded by the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, successfully applied for funds to mitigate impacts occurring as a result of unrestricted recreational activities within a number of Reserves in the River Lett subcatchment. Planned works include the restriction of vehicles to the banks of the River, weed control, bush regeneration and revegetation works, the closure and rehabilitation of unnecessary tracks, the management of erosion and subsequent retention of cultural artefacts, and signage in the Reserves. This current program of works is intending to mitigate these impacts to a level that promotes the rehabilitation and sustainable ongoing use of the Reserve.

River Lett

Re-instatement of contour banks and erosion control structures to improve drainage

Erosion repair & rehabilitation of steep slope to River. Pedestrian access retained

Vehicle tracks rehabilitated. Walking track circuit and access retained through Reserve

Existing fencelines

Vehicle access along loop road in upper 150m of Woodland, stabilised surface and improved drainage

Figure 46: Proposed rehabilitation design and program of works at Hyde Park Reserve


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5.3.1 Track Closures and Conservation Earthworks The Reserve has unrestricted vehicle access to the majority of areas within the bushland. This has resulted in a network of tracks leading to the fragmentation of native vegetation, and in turn leading to increased volumes of water delivering runoff to areas of high erosion risk on steep sections of track. Some steep areas are eroding and combined with compacted areas could result in potential changes to surface and sub-surface movement of water. These areas would benefit from earthworks and remediation measures being put in place, particularly on the western boundary where a continuous buffer of native vegetation between the River and adjacent lands is to be strengthened. A number of measures would benefit the adjacent bushland areas including;

• Track rationalisation with emergency vehicle access remaining if required • Undertake conservation earthworks/track closures and remediation works i.e.

machine ripping of tracks, brush-matting, construction of cross drains, coir logs etc • Removal of sediment from and reconstruction of existing diversion banks, • Erosion control and sedimentation management • Determine effectiveness of regeneration rates from brushmatting /direct seeding • Construction of a rock lined channel at the downstream end of Area 1, • Supply and placement of large granite rocks to delineate and restrict access, and • Resurfacing the access road with gravel, preferably granite.

As the result of a Heritage Assessment undertaken in January 2008, the Reserve was partitioned into three separate management zones with agreed upon treatments to be applied to each, based upon the presence or absence of aboriginal artefacts identified within each zone as a result of the Assessment.

Figure 47: Technical specification of proposed conservation earthworks


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5.3.2 Brushmatting Bare and exposed soils to be rehabilitated will be brushmatted as part of the rehabilitation. Brushmatting involves the cutting and laying of seed bearing branches of native trees and shrubs from the local environment (ensuring genetic integrity), and secondarily acts a as a further obstacle for vehicles. Brush matting introduces an element of soil erosion control and a source of indigenous seed. This process introduces seed-bearing vegetation laid in contact with and over the soil, creating a microclimate conducive to seed germination and a series of micro-barriers to surface flow, slowing flow and trapping mobilized sediment. The material will break down and over time form organic matter. Material for brush matting should comprise native material harvested from the immediate vicinity from within the same native vegetation community. Soft engineering structures such as coir-logs (compressed coconut fibre) will be installed across closed tracks in Areas 2 and 3. Figure 48: Brushmatting laid over closed tracks restricts further access and adds seeds and organic matter back to the soil.

5.3.3 Vehicle Management Vehicle management and restriction from areas within the Reserve is anticipated to have beneficial effects for native flora, fauna, water quality and the preservation of culturally important items. Proposed vehicle management strategies include the upgrading of 100m of track at the entrance to the Reserve, and installation of a loop track with the accommodation for approximately a dozen vehicles to park at any one time.

Vehicle access will be further restricted with the erection of boulders, and a walking track retained from the loop track to the River. Vehicle access to the River will be restricted, and the eroding slope remediated, with pedestrian access retained. Figure 49: View north from southern end of proposed loop track, white line indicates the approximate location of the new track.


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5.3.4 Weed Management Strategy Bush regeneration involves specialised weed control within bushland that encourages the bushland’s natural ability to regenerate. Bush regeneration is an important management practice used to assist in restoring the native vegetation of the site in areas where the site is capable of natural regeneration. Bushland resilience describes the ability of a native plant community to regenerate and recover from disturbances such as fire, clearing and soil erosion. Bushland resilience is related to the type, combinations and period of disturbance and the ability of the plant species to deal with those disturbances such as their methods of reproduction, growth rates and length of seed life in the soil. For example, an area of bushland that has a long history of clearing impacted by stormwater and weed invasion will have a lower level of resilience than an area that has only been cleared periodically without other compounding disturbances. Figure 50: Bush regeneration; incorporating staged and successive weed control treatments The resilience of bushland is therefore reduced when impacts are compounded and occur for long periods as in the case of badly degraded bushland. These areas require many years of bush regeneration to restore them to a healthy native plant community, whereas management of recent disturbances can quickly restore bushland to a good condition with minimal effort. It is therefore cost effective to prioritise bushland restoration works based on areas of higher resilience as these areas can be brought back to healthy plant communities at minimal costs.

5.3.5 Revegetation Strategy Revegetation involves planting of indigenous species in an area not capable of natural regeneration, such as areas with very low or no resilience. Revegetation will be required in areas where there is minimal or no native seed source and where soil conditions have

changed so greatly that local natives cannot tolerate the conditions, or along the riverbank where bank stability is paramount. For either Bush regeneration or revegetation to be effective, any existing degrading factors such as runoff or soil disturbance must first be managed or controlled. Decrease the impact of weed invasion (and other impacts) on natural areas by controlling priority weeds and establishing a native vegetation buffer around the perimeters of the Reserve and adjacent to good quality native vegetation. Revegetation works will aim to restore and reinstate a native vegetation community of canopy, mid-storey and groundlayer similar to that occurring within adjacent bushland. Figure 51: Indigenous planting will assist the rehabilitation of the Reserve


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5.4 Monitoring and Review A number of performance indicators have been selected to assess the effectiveness of planned works to be carried out. Monitoring of weed management, revegetation and soil conservation works is required to ensure that measures are adequately implemented and maintained, and that performance criteria are satisfied. The monitoring programme should commence at the initiation of works and continue into the future. The review period to assess the performance indicators is recommended at realistically determined intervals that illustrate change and progress. Suitably qualified Council staff should carry out a program of regular monitoring and inspection. Table IV: Action Table objectives, performance targets, means of achievement and measures of success.

Issue

Objective – (Action)

Performance Criteria

Monitoring Technique

Evaluation

Unknown usage patterns of the Reserve

Determine the level of use of vehicles/pedestrians through a range of means, e.g. vehicle &/or person counters

Visitation amounts determined

Compressed air counters, pressure pads, infra red beams, surveys on guided tours, periodic observations, periodic photography

Usage patterns determined. Infrastructure accommodates uses within the reserve’s carrying capacity

Vegetation buffers

Vegetation buffers created and maintained on reserve boundaries using appropriate native vegetation types along existing bushland edges. Buffer designed to protect core native vegetation from weed invasion.

Survival rate of plantings Degree of weed cover

Counts, photos On-site assessment

Healthy native bushland edges established Degree of weed cover

Revegetation works

Native vegetation established on closed tracks and across the slope leading to the river further restricting vehicle access

Survival rate of plantings Degree of weed cover

Counts, photos Healthy native bushland species established Degree of weed cover

Bush regeneration and weed management

Area of bushland regenerated to a level capable of natural and unassisted regeneration.

Degree of weed cover Area and condition of bushland regenerated

Photo documentation of weed densities ‘Condition of Bushland Map’ produced

Improved condition of bushland areas Re-map site on 12-18 month intervals to assess changes


Issue

Objective – (Action)

Performance Criteria

Monitoring Technique

Evaluation

Soil stabilisation

Successful management and remediation of degrading factors and retention of soils on site

Degree of bare and exposed soils Amount of sediment retention &/or soil loss

Map of degrading factors. Describe scale of impacts. Keep record of remediation works. On-site inspection and photo documentation

Degree of bare and exposed soils Re-map site at annual intervals

Track rehabilitation

Rationalisation of tracks, conservation earthworks, structures installed and remediation works. Desired usage patterns clearly defined

Closed, de-compacted and remediated tracks. Germination of seedlings Retention of soils on-site

Photo documentation Counts On-site inspection

Regeneration occurring Successful structures and earthworks Dedicated tracks utilised

Cultural items

Aboriginal features and items identified Assessment and survey undertaken Recommendations implemented

Report produced Signage installed Items and features protected

Risk Management

Clarification of liability issues and responsibilities

Risks and hazards identified and procedures adopted

Risk Management Strategy in place

Public informed through signage


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5.5 Glossary of Terms Action A practical, achievable and measurable thing to be done to

implement a management strategy. Basis for Management

A section of the Plan of Management that identifies the role of the reserve, the legislative and policy framework, existing conditions and values, and issues relating to the subject land.

Desired outcomes

Fundamental expectations on which to base decisions. Also known as goals, aims and objectives.

Guiding principles or management principles

Foundations or rules that guide how the subject land should be managed

Issues Problems and opportunities relating to management of the subject land. Issues may be a point of conflict between stakeholders or may impact on the land itself

Management area

Identifiable precincts or units of land based on natural, economic or social factors, or a combination of these factors.

Management strategy

A policy or direction that assists in guiding actions to address issues.

Priority The importance of a management action in terms of the implementation of the Plan of Management. ‘High’ priority actions may need to be implemented immediately while ‘low’ priority or ‘ongoing’ actions may be implemented later or over time.

Role The function of the subject land within the public land system. How a Crown reserve fits into the local or regional Crown reserve system.

Strategy A statement of how to achieve a desired outcome Values The qualities of Crown or community land that are significant, special

or important, and that we wish to protect or enhance. Vision A short, over-riding statement that encapsulates the ideal to be

achieved From Succeeding with Plans of Management. A guide to the Local Government Act and Crown Lands Act. DLWC & Manidis Roberts Consultants. 1995

5.6 References Department of Lands Trust Handbook 2005. www.lands.nsw.gov.au DLWC / Manidis Roberts Consultants (1995) Succeeding with Plans of Management. A guide to the Local Government Act and Crown Lands Act. DLWC Sydney Department of Lands. Get on Board - Crown Reserve Trust Boards in New South Wales Department of Mineral Resources (1991) Geological Mapping Series Sheets, 1:25,000. Sheet, 1st edition, Dept. Mineral Resources. Foley Park Draft Plan of Management – Environmental Partnership (NSW) P/L for City of Sydney - 2005 Burwood Park Draft Plan of Management – Guy Sturt and Associates P/L for Burwood Council – 2005 Harden, G.J. (ed) (1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 2002) Flora of New South Wales: Volumes 1-4. UNSW Press, Sydney. Keith, D. A. and Benson, D.H. (1988) The Natural Vegetation of the Katoomba 1:100 000 Map Sheet. Cunninghamia 2(1): 107-144. King, D.P. (1994) Soil Landscapes of the Katoomba 1:100 000 Sheet, Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney. Lovegrove, D. (1995) Londonderry Bushland Reserve Assessment – TAFE NSW Williams, T. (2005) “Londonderry and Hyde Park Reserves – A Management Report” TAFE NSW Australian Museum Business Services (2008) Aboriginal Archaeological Survey and Cultural Heritage Assessment, Hyde Park Reserve, Hartley NSW


Appendix 1: Noxious Weed Control Classes Class 1 , State Prohibited Weeds; plants that pose a potentially serious threat to primary production or the environment and are not present in the State or are present only to a limited extent. Class 2 , Regionally Prohibited Weeds; plants that pose a potentially serious threat to primary production or the environment of a region to which the order applies and are not present in the region or are present only to a limited extent. Class 3 , Regionally Controlled Weeds; plants that pose a serious threat to primary production or the environment of an area to which the order applies, are not widely distributed in the area and are likely to spread in the area or to another area. Class 4 , Locally Controlled Weeds; plants that pose a threat to primary production, the environment or human health, are widely distributed in an area to which the order applies and are likely to spread in the area or to another area. Class 5 , Restricted Plants for sale or distribution; plants that are likely, by their sale or the sale of their seeds or movement within the State or an area of the State, to spread in the State or outside the state.

Control Class

Category

Control Requirement

Control Objective

1 State Prohibited Weeds

The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant.

Class 1 is to prevent the introduction and establishment of those plants in NSW.

2

Regionally Prohibited Weeds

The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant.

Class 2 is to prevent the introduction and establishment of those plants in parts of NSW.

3

Regionally Controlled Weeds

"The plant must be fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed.

Class 3 is to reduce the area and the impact of those plants in parts of NSW.

4

Locally Controlled Weeds

The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority, and in addition for some Class 4 weeds " and the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed".

Class 4 is to minimise the negative impact of those plants on the economy, community or environment of NSW.

5

Restricted Plants

The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with.

Class 5 is to prevent the introduction of those plants into NSW, the spread of those plants within NSW or from NSW to another jurisdiction.


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Appendix 2: Noxious Weed Declarations for Upper Macquarie County Council Note: this control area includes the local council areas of Bathurst Regional, Blayney, Lithgow, Oberon. The following weeds are declared noxious in the control area of Upper Macquarie County Council:

Weed Class Legal requirements African boxthorn [Lycium ferocissimum ]

4 The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority

African feathergrass [Pennisetum macrourum ]

5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

African lovegrass [Eragrostis curvula ]


African turnipweed [Sisymbrium runcinatum ]


African turnipweed [Sisymbrium thellungii ]


Alligator weed [Alternanthera philoxeroides ]

2 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant

Anchored water hyacinth [Eichhornia azurea]

1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Annual ragweed [Ambrosia artemisiifolia ]


Arrowhead [Sagittaria montevidensis ]


Artichoke thistle [Cynara cardunculus ]


Athel pine [Tamarix aphylla ] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

Bathurst/Noogoora/Californian/cockle burrs [Xanthium species ]


Bear-skin fescue [Festuca gautieri]


Black knapweed [Centaurea nigra]

1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant. This is an All of NSW declaration

Blackberry [Rubus fruticosus aggregate species ] except cultivars Black satin, Chehalem, Chester Thornless, Dirksen Thornless, Loch Ness, Murrindindi, Silvan, Smoothstem, Thornfree

4 The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority and the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed This is an All of NSW declaration

Bridal creeper [Asparagus asparagoides ]



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Broomrapes [Orobanche species]


Burr ragweed [Ambrosia confertiflora ]


Cabomba [Cabomba caroliniana ]


Cayenne snakeweed [Stachytarpheta cayennensis ]


Chilean needle grass [Nassella neesiana ]

4 The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority and the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed

Chinese violet [Asystasia gangetica subspecies micrantha]


Clockweed [Gaura lindheimeri ]


Clockweed [Gaura parviflora ] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

Cockle burrs [Xanthium species ]

See Bathurst/Noogoora/Californian/cockle burrs

Columbus grass [Sorghum x almum ]

3 The plant must be fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed

Corn sowthistle [Sonchus arvensis ]


Dodder [Cuscuta species] Includes All Cuscuta species except the native species C. australis, C. tasmanica and C. victoriana


East Indian hygrophila [Hygrophila polysperma]


English broom [Cytisus scoparius ]

See Scotch broom

Espartillo [Achnatherum brachychaetum ]


Eurasian water milfoil [Myriophyllum spicatum]


Fine-bristled burr grass [Cenchrus brownii ]


Fountain grass [Pennisetum setaceum ]


Gallon's curse [Cenchrus biflorus ]

5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with


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This is an All of NSW declaration Glaucous starthistle [Carthamus glaucus ]


Golden dodder [Cuscuta campestris]


Golden thistle [Scolymus hispanicus ]


Gorse [Ulex europaeus ] 3 The plant must be fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed

Green cestrum [Cestrum parqui ]


Harrisia cactus [Harrisia species ]


Hawkweed [Hieracium species]


Hemlock [Conium maculatum ]


Horsetail [Equisetum species] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Hymenachne [Hymenachne amplexicaulis]


Johnson grass [Sorghum halepense ]


Karoo thorn [Acacia karroo] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Kochia [Bassia scoparia] except Bassia scoparia subspecies trichophylla

1 except B.scoparia subspecies trichophylla The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant. This is an All of NSW declaration

Lagarosiphon [Lagarosiphon major]


Lantana [Lantana species ] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

Leafy elodea [Egeria densa] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

Long-leaf willow primrose [Ludwigia longifolia ]


Long-style feather grass [Pennisetum villosum ]


Mesquite [Prosopis species ] 2 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must


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be kept free of the plant Mexican feather grass [Nassella tenuissima ]


Mexican poppy [Argemone mexicana ]


Miconia [Miconia species] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Mimosa [Mimosa pigra] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Mossman River grass [Cenchrus echinatus ]


Nodding thistle [Carduus nutans ]


Onion grass [Romulea species] Includes all Romulea species and varieties except R. rosea var. australis


Oxalis [Oxalis species and varieties] Includes all Oxalis species and varieties except the native species O. chnoodes, O. exilis, O. perennans, O. radicosa, O. rubens, and O. thompsoniae


Pampas grass [Cortaderia species ]


Parkinsonia [Parkinsonia aculeata ]


Parthenium weed [Parthenium hysterophorus]


Pond apple [Annona glabra] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Prickly acacia [Acacia nilotica]


Prickly pear [Cylindropuntia species ]


Prickly pear [Opuntia species except O. ficus-indica ]


Privet (Broad-leaf) [Ligustrum 4 The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled


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lucidum ] according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority and the plant may not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed

Privet (Narrow-leaf/Chinese) [Ligustrum sinense ]


Red rice [Oryza rufipogon ] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with. This is an All of NSW declaration

Rhus tree [Toxicodendron succedaneum]

4 The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority. This is an All of NSW declaration

Rubbervine [Cryptostegia grandiflora]


Sagittaria [Sagittaria platyphylla ]


Salvinia [Salvinia molesta ] 2 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant

Sand oat [Avena strigosa ] 5 The requirements in the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied with This is an All of NSW declaration

Scotch broom [Cytisus scoparius ]


Scotch, Stemless, Illyrian and Taurian thistles [Onopordum species ]


Senegal tea plant [Gymnocoronis spilanthoides]


Serrated tussock [Nassella trichotoma ]


Siam weed [Chromolaena odorata]


Silver-leaf nightshade [Solanum elaeagnifolium ]


Smooth-stemmed turnip [Brassica barrelieri subspecies oxyrrhina]


Soldier thistle [Picnomon acarna ]


Spiny burrgrass [Cenchrus incertus ]


Spiny burrgrass [Cenchrus longispinus ]



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Spotted knapweed [Centaurea maculosa]


St. John's wort [Hypericum perforatum ]


Star thistle [Centaurea calcitrapa ]


Sweet briar [Rosa rubiginosa ]


Texas blueweed [Helianthus ciliaris ]


Tree-of-heaven [Ailanthus altissima ]


Water caltrop [Trapa species] 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant This is an All of NSW declaration

Water hyacinth [Eichhornia crassipes ]


Water lettuce [Pistia stratiotes]


Water soldier [Stratiotes aloides]


Wild radish [Raphanus raphanistrum ]


Willows [Salix species] Includes all Salix species except S. babylonica, S. x reichardtii, S. x calodendron


Witchweed [Striga species] Includes all Striga species except native species and Striga parviflora


Yellow burrhead [Limnocharis flava]


Yellow nutgrass [Cyperus esculentus ]



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Appendix 3: Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 Schedules Schedule 1 of the TSC Act lists threatened species, populations and ecological communities and species that are endangered or presumed extinct. Schedule 2 lists vulnerable species and Schedule 3 lists key threatening processes.

• The TSC Act defines 'endangered' as a species, population or ecological community that is likely to become extinct or is in immediate danger of extinction.

• A species that is 'presumed extinct' has not been located in nature during the preceding fifty years despite the searching of known and likely habitats.

• A 'vulnerable' species is likely to become endangered unless the circumstances and factors threatening its survival or evolutionary development cease to operate.

Appendix 4: Key Threatening Processes Key threatening processes are the things that threaten - or could threaten - the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. They are listed in the Threatened Species Conservation Act, and include:

• Pest animals. Introduced animal species can compete with, and prey upon, native animals. They can also damage native plants and degrade natural habitats.

• Weeds. Weeds compete with native plants for resources such as light and nutrients. They can aggressively invade areas, displacing native plants and animals.

• Diseases. Exotic fungal infections, viruses and other pathogens can weaken and kill native species.

• Habitat loss/change. From large-scale land clearing to the gathering of bushrock for suburban gardens, humans have degraded many native environments across the state.

The list below shows the 30 key threatening processes listed in NSW. The Department of Environment and Conservation has prepared a Priorities Action Statement (PAS) to promote the recovery of threatened species and the abatement of key threatening processes in New South Wales. The Priorities Action Statement identifies a number of broad strategies to help threatened plants and animals recover in New South Wales. Each of these strategies have more specific priority actions within them. A total of 20 strategies and 793 priority actions have been identified to help tackle the 30 key threatening processes listed in NSW.

Key threatening process

Type of threat

Invasion and establishment of exotic vines and scramblers Weed Invasion of native plant communities by bitou bush & boneseed Weed Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses Weed Invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana camara Weed Competition and grazing by the feral European rabbit Pest animal

Competition and habitat degradation by feral goats (Capra hircus) Pest animal Competition from feral honeybees Pest animal Herbivory and environmental degradation caused by feral deer Pest animal Importation of red imported fire ants into NSW Pest animal Introduction of the large earth bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) Pest animal Invasion and establishment of the Cane Toad Pest animal Invasion of the yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) Pest animal Predation by feral cats Pest animal Predation by the European Red Fox Pest animal Predation by the Plague Minnow (Gambusia holbrooki) Pest animal Predation by the ship rat (Rattus rattus) on Lord Howe Island Pest animal Predation, habitat degradation, competition and disease transmission by Feral Pigs (Sus scrofa) Pest animal


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Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers, streams, floodplains & wetlands. Habitat loss/change

Bushrock Removal Habitat loss/change Clearing of native vegetation Habitat loss/change Alteration of habitat following subsidence due to longwall mining Habitat loss/change Ecological consequences of high frequency fires Habitat loss/change Human-caused Climate Change Habitat loss/change Loss and/or degradation of sites used for hill-topping by butterflies Habitat loss/change Removal of dead wood and dead trees Habitat loss/change Infection by Psittacine circoviral (beak & feather) disease affecting endangered psittacine species Disease

Infection of frogs by amphibian chytrid fungus causing the disease chytridiomycosis Disease

Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi Disease Death or injury to marine species following capture in shark control programs on ocean beaches Other threat

Entanglement in, or ingestion of anthropogenic debris in marine and estuarine environments Other threat

Appendix 5: Priority Action Statements (PAS) for Asterolasia buxifolia Priority actions are the specific, practical things that must be done to recover a threatened species, population or ecological community. The Department of Environment and Conservation has identified 10 priority actions to help recover the Asterolasia buxifolia in New South Wales.

Description of Priority Action

Priority

Recovery strategy: Captive Husbandry or ex-situ collection/propagation

Establish live ex-situ collection in collaboration with BGT - all known provenances (conservation collection).

High

Recovery strategy: Community and land-holder liaison/ awareness and/or education

Prepare and disseminate identification guide to local government, CMAs, DEC PWD staff and community groups.

Medium

Hold field day on-sites for neighbours.

Low

Participate in field days / community events.

Low

Recovery strategy: Habitat management: Site Protection (e.g. Fencing/Signage)

Implement site management statement at known location.

High

Prepare site management statement to address identified threats at known site, including weeds.

High

Recovery strategy: Habitat Protection (inc vca/ jma/ critical habitat nomination etc)

Prepare Plan of Management that explicitly protects this species for Hyde Park

Medium

Recovery strategy: Monitoring

Monitor known population for threats and changes in population status

High

Recovery strategy: Survey/Mapping and Habitat assessment

Identify and map potential habitat.

High

Survey potential habitat for species presence

High


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Appendix 6: Geological Map Sheet of Hyde Park and surrounds


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Appendix 7: Soils Landscape Map of Hyde Park and surrounds


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Appendix 8: Media Release RBG Media release: 10 November 2001 Rare shrub rediscovered in remnant bush after 160 years A shrub collected by the Royal Botanic Gardens has turned out to be a species not seen for 160 years and thought by some to be extinct. The species Asterolasia buxifolia was rediscovered in remnant bush in the Blue Mountains by Botanic Gardens Trust botanist Bob Makinson and is so rare that it has no common name and has only ever been recorded at one location. Originally collected by early explorer and botanist Allan Cunningham in the Blue Mountains in the 1830s, Asterolasia buxifolia was then lost — so completely that it has not even been recognised in recent botanical books. In the late 1990s, West Australian botanist Paul G. Wilson used preserved herbarium specimens to re-establish the distinct nature of the species. However, in the wild it has remained unknown and thought to be possibly extinct — until now. ‘While investigating a rare grevillea species, I found about 50 shrub-like plants with beautiful golden-yellow flowers in native bush in the Hartley area. A check with Melbourne researcher Bryan Mole, who is studying the DNA of these plants, revealed it to be the long-lost Asterolasia buxifolia,’ Mr Makinson explained. ‘There were only ever three or four collections of this species in the 1830s and 1840s, and the only location was given as ‘Bells Line, Blue Mountains’, so most searches for this elusive species since have taken place in the Blue Mountains between Bell and Mt Tomah. ‘It was only by chance that I found the plant but it wasn’t chance that saved it all these years. The area is well fenced and still supports a beautiful remnant patch of native bush that is almost as rich as it was in those early days of settlement. ‘It is important that land managers preserve these remnant patches of bushland — you never know what unique treasures may still be there,’ Mr Makinson said. Lithgow City Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Royal Botanic Gardens are now working together to protect the species and ensure its long-term survival for the future.


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Appendix 9: Management Implications - Legislation and Planning Instruments Instrument: Principal

Agency: Purpose: Application:

COMMONWEALTH: Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Environment Australia

Regulates the assessment and approval of activities that have a significant impact on ‘matters of national environmental significance’, activities by Commonwealth government agencies anywhere in the world, and activities by any person on Commonwealth land. Protects biodiversity by creating and regulating protected areas such as World Heritage properties and National Parks. Outlines the listing and management of threatened species and ecological communities.

National Ecotourism Strategy 1994

Federal Dept. of Tourism

Develop and promote the sustainable delivery of eco-tourism products.

STATE: Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

EPA

Assess the environmental, social, and economic impact of proposed developments and plans.

Environmental planning instruments including Local Environment Plans (LEP), Regional Environment Plans (REP), and State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPP). Environmental impact assessment procedures.

National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974

NPWS/DECC

Management of National Parks, protection of flora and fauna. Protection of aboriginal sites.

Permits and/or licences required for damage to aboriginal sites, holding of native fauna, removing flora.

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

DECC

Ensure developers consider threatened species and their habitat in the planning process.

A licence to “harm” or “pick” a threatened species is required where development impacts on a threatened species, population or ecological community or damages habitat.

Crown Lands Act 1989 Dept. of Lands Principle legislation in the management of Crown lands and provides important guidance for suitability assessment.

Outlines that Crown Land is managed for the benefit of the people of NSW. Details the Principles for Crown Land Management and outlines the POM process.


Instrument: Principal


STATE: Soil Conservation Act 1938

EPA

Protects sensitive areas from tree removal. Prevention of land degradation and erosion.

Permit required to remove trees within 20m of the banks of a prescribed stream and in other designated protected areas.

Local Government Act 1993

Local Government

Allow local government to undertake a range of functions and responsibilities.

Allows opportunities for works such as drainage, removal of obstructions, erosion control, and protection of roads.

Rural Fires Act 1997

Rural Fire Service, Local Government Authorities

Outlines responsibilities of landholders in terms of minimising fire hazard and controlling fires on their properties.

All fire ignitions to be suppressed or at least prevented from spreading from one land tenure to another. Landholders must implement fuel hazard reduction programs as per their local Fire Management Plan or direction from the Bushfire Mgt Committee.

Native Vegetation Act 2005

Catchment Management Authority (HNCMA)

To conserve native vegetation in NSW

Controls the clearing of native vegetation and protects habitats and threatened species.

Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003

Catchment Management Authority

Implement Total Catchment Management (TCM)

Catchment Management Authority co-ordinate policies, programs and activities as they relate to TCM.

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

EPA Overhaul of EPA legislation including the Clean Air, Clean Waters, Noise Control and other Act.

Provides for the protection of air and water quality and outlines enforcement and penalties.

SEPP 44 (Koala Habitat Protection)

DIPNR, Local Government Authorities

Protect Koala habitat. Applies to local government areas where Koalas are known to occur. Requires studies to accompany Development Applications e.g. if certain Koala food trees are present.


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Instrument: Principal


STATE: Crown Lands Policy 1989

Dept. of Lands

Retain, conserve and maintain Crown Lands and their intrinsic, environmental, and cultural qualities in public ownership. Maintain public access, rehabilitate lands where necessary, and acquire further significant coastal lands for future public use.

NSW Open Space Strategy 1992

NSW Government

Planning for open space and facilities that is equitable, ensures public access and protects significant features.

LOCAL: Crown Reserves Management Strategy 1994

Dept. of Lands

Provides focus for the future direction of the administration and management of the Crown Reserves system in the LGA/region.

Region Tourism Development Strategy 1987

Tourism NSW

Develop the tourism potential of national parks, state forests, state recreation areas, crown reserves, rivers, dams, waterways. Preserve coastal holiday villages and their capability to service a growing tourism industry. Upgrade existing caravan parks.

Conservation Strategy for the LGA 1993

Environment Council

Vision: ‘Clean air, water and soils and a safe place to live work and play’. Understand, protect and care for the remaining natural environment.

Local Environment Plan (LEP)

Local Council

The main means of development control with zoning maps and a written instrument categorising developments as either permissible or prohibited.


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Appendix 10: Native Flora List

Genus species

Common name

Acacia buxifolia Box-Leaved Wattle Acacia dealbata Silver Wattle Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle Acaena ovina Sheeps Burr Agrostis avanacea Blown Grass Ajuga australis Asperula conferta Asterolasia buxifolia Starbush Baumea gunnii Billardiera mutabilis Bossiaea buxifolia Matted Bossiaea Brachyloma daphnoides Daphne Heath Bracteantha viscosa Bursaria spinosa Blackthorn Caladenia Caladenia caerulea Blue Caladenia Caladenia fuscata Calochilus robertsonii Callistemon citrinus Crimson Bottlebrush Callistemon sieberi River Bottlebrush Calytrix tetragona Fringe-myrtle Carex gaudichaudiana Tufted Sedge Cassytha pubescens Devil’s Twine Cheilanthes sieberi Poison Rock Fern Crassula sieberiana Daviesia latifolia Broad-leaf Bitter Pea Derwentia perfoliata Derwentia blakelyi Dianella sp. Dipodium punctatum Hyacinth Orchid Dillwynia phylicoides Egg and Bacon Diuris sp Diuris platichila Diuris sulphurea Tiger Orchid Drosera binata Forked Sundew Echinopogon caespitosus Tufted Hedgehog Grass Entolasia stricta Wiry Grass Epacris sp. Eragrostis sp.


Genus species

Common name Eucalyptus cypellocarpa Monkey Gum Eucalyptus dives Broad-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus mannifera ssp mannifera Brittle Gum Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box Eucalyptus rubida subsp. rubida Candle bark Eucalyptus sieberi Silver-top Ash Eucalyptus stellulata Black Sally Eucalyptus viminalis Ribbon Gum Gleichenia dicarpa Pouched Coral Fern Glossodia major Wax-lip Orchid Grevillea acanthifolia subsp. acanthifolia Grevillea laurifolia Grevillea rosmarinifolia subsp. rosmarinifolia

Hakea dactyloides Broad-leaved Hakea Hakea microcarpa Small-fruited Hakea Hakea teretifolia Dagger Hakea Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsparilla Hibbertia linearis Imperata cylindrica Bladey Grass Lepidosperma sp Leptospermum spp. Tea Tree Lomandra glauca Pale Mat-rush Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat-rush Lomandra multiflora subsp. Multiflora Many flowered Mat-rush Lomatia myricoides River Lomatia Luzula flaccida Microlaena stipoides stipoides Weeping Meadow Grass Micranthemum hexandrum

Patersonia sericea Silky Purple Flag Phragmites australis Native Reed Poa. sieberiana Pomaderris eriocephala Pomaderris Poranthera microphylla Small Poranthera Senecio sp. Thelymitra sp. Thelymitra pauciflora Slender Sun-orchid Thelymitra x truncata Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass Typha orientalis Cumbungi Wahlenbergia spp.


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Appendix 11: Native Fauna List This list was prepared by external consultants as part of an ‘Assessment of Flora and Fauna’ for the eastern subdivision in March 2006.


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Appendix 12: Cultural Heritage Assessment Overview Australian Museum Business Services (AMBS) was commissioned by the City of Lithgow Council to provide specialist consultancy services for the rehabilitation of Hyde Park Reserve, Hartley, NSW. Public access to the Reserve over the last couple of decades has been primarily through the use of motor vehicles on dirt tracks. Such use of the Reserve has caused erosion problems particularly on and adjacent to the vehicle tracks. The City of Lithgow Council intends to restrict vehicle use to the southern end of the reserve and intends to revegetate unused vehicle tracks to prevent further erosion. This report details the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment of Hyde Park Reserve. The Reserve was surveyed on the 22 of January 2008 by Tessa Boer-Mah (AMBS) and Robert Clegg (Wiradjuri Council of Elders); Trish Kidd (Lithgow Council) also participated. A total of 154 stone artefacts were recorded in Hyde Park Reserve. Four tools were recorded including one broken blade, one hammerstone and two flakes that appeared to have been burinated. All of the artefacts recorded were observed in eroded vehicle tracks. The investigations revealed that archaeological material covers much of Hyde Park Reserve and it is likely that in situ subsurface material exists in areas still covered by vegetation. The distribution of artefacts is not uniform across the Reserve and thus three archaeological areas were identified to reflect different landforms, erosion regimes and artefact densities. Lithgow City Council is aware that Aboriginal artefacts occur in Hyde Park Reserve. The observation of such artefacts has been partly due to extensive erosion of vehicle tracks in the Reserve which is affecting the integrity of the archaeological deposit in this area. Lithgow Council intends to undertake works to conserve the cultural heritage in the Reserve and prevent further erosion. Such works will involve re-vegetation, stabilisation of the Riverbank, closure of informal tracks and some minor earthworks. Previous earth embankments within the Reserve were designed to minimise erosion. Motor vehicle use within the reserve has caused these earth embankments to rupture and erode. Lithgow Council intends to repair these earth embankments which will involve some minor earth moving activity. It is intended that motor vehicle use within the Reserve be restricted to the southern portion to prevent the erosion of theses embankments in the future. This will involve the creation of a turning circle and a limited number of car parking spaces and loop track through the vegetated area. All the other informal tracks within the Reserve will be closed to vehicle traffic. Lithgow Council is aware of its heritage obligations and is proposing to undertake the above works to conserve the archaeological material in the Reserve. Thus the development works have been proposed for the explicit purpose of retaining the heritage value of Hyde Park Reserve. The manner in which these works are undertaken will be guided by the heritage advice to ensure the best heritage outcomes and that statutory obligations are met.


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Appendix 13: Artefact Identification A stone artefact is defined as any stone piece or stone body that has been modified by humans in the past. There are a number of characteristics and attributes that distinguish stone artefacts from naturally occurring stone in the landscape. The most common type of stone artefact, in terms of raw numbers, in Australia is flaked artefacts. Flaked artefacts are generally produced by forcefully striking a cobble or nodule of silicious material (a core) with a harder rock or mineral (known as a hammer or hammerstone). The detached material generally produces a sharp edged sliver of stone which is referred to as a flake (Holdaway and Stern 2004: 4). Flakes have particular attributes which demonstrate that they were produced by human activity. These attributes are a product of the mechanical force which is distributed through the stone during the process of flaking (Speth 1972). These features include: striking platform, bulb of percussion, point of impact, bulbar scar, shear fracture and hertzian cone, (Figure 46). Not all of these features will be present on all flakes. The features present depends on the stone raw material and/or the striking force, but all flakes will have a striking platform, point of impact, and a bulb of percussion.

Figure 46: Features of a Flake (after Speth 1972: 35, but see also Holdaway and Stern 2004:108) In terms of raw numbers, the majority of artefacts in Australia are flaked stone artefacts. Another type of stone artefact is ground stone artefacts. These artefacts are shaped by the process of grinding two stone surfaces together. In some cases (for instance axes) the artefact may first be shaped by flaking.


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Appendix 14: Selected Artefact Photos – Hyde Park Reserve


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Appendix 15: Community Survey Summary 2007

‘Hyde Park Reserve’ - Determining the Values - HOW LONG HAVE YOU KNOWN ABOUT HYDE PARK?

2 - 10 Years 10 - 25 Years 30+ Years

9 8 8

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN USING/VISITING HYDE PARK?

2 - 10 Years 10 - 25 Years 30+ Years

15 4 6

HOW FAR AWAY DO YOU LIVE FORM HYDE PARK?

1 km or less 2 - 10 km 11 - 30 km

6 11 8

HOW DO YOU TRAVEL TO HYDE PARK?

Vehicle 17

Bike 5

Walk 12

Other 2

WHAT TYPE OF ACTIVITIES DO YOU UNDERTAKE AT HYDE PARK?

Swimming 16 Walking 16

Family Recreation 11 Visiting, Reflection 10

Day/Picnic lunch 10 Flora Study 9

Exercising dog 8 Artistic 5

Educational 4 Horse Riding 3

Driving 3 Other 3

Mountain Biking 2 Off Road Vehicle 2

Gas BBQ 1 Overnight Camping 1

Campfires 1 Ecotourism Nil

Ceremonial Nil


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WHAT TYPE OF ACTIVITIES DO YOU THINK SHOULD BE;

Allowed Not Allowed Regulated

Swimming 25 - -

walking 25 - -

Day picnic / lunch 25 - -

Photography 25 - -

Flora Study, wildlife watching, natural history 25 - -

Visiting, Reflection 23 - -

Family Recreation 22 - -

Educational 23 - -

Ceremonial 21 1 -

Gas BBQ 16 3 4

Exercising dog 15 3 3

Mountain Biking 15 5 5

Horse Riding 13 6 4

Ecotourism 12 2 9

Overnight Camping 10 7 8

Campfires 4 12 7

Driving 6 12 4

Off Road Vehicle 2 15 4

Other - - 1


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Appendix 16: Summary of Written Submissions Where possible the submissions have been matched with the key issues identified within the responses. Please note that this is a summary and is therefore only an interpretation of the authors’ original comments. The original documents are available for viewing upon request. Council would like to thank the following individuals and organisations for taking the time to prepare submissions on the draft Hyde Park Plan of Management: Dianne Green, Ariel Elliot, Dennis Byrne, Barry Cutting, Richard Stiles, Department of Lands, and the Lithgow Oberon Landcare Association. Your input is greatly appreciated.

KEY ISSUES IDENTIFIED

COMMENT

Overall Plan and Content

• Comprehensive, diverse, detailed • Support for the plan and the proposed works • Well balanced report, thorough, extensive • Too much information not relating to the direct management of

the reserve • Issue of climate change on long term management not

addressed • Identified need to look at other Council reserves

Access Road

• Poor condition of the access road, major pot holes full of water, creation of new tracks, damage to vegetation. Drainage

• Impacts on local residents from vehicles: dust, speeding vehicles, flooding of neighbouring properties

• Who has responsibility of maintaining the access road • upgrading of road to an ‘all-weather’ road • Urgent speed control measures needed • Council take control of access road and be responsible for

maintenance • Source of soil erosion • Suggestion of consultation with adjoining land holders over

access road issues

Flora and Fauna

• Vehicle impacts on habitat, flora, and fauna • Addition of Dipodium punctatum (Hyacinth Orchid) and

Drosera binata (Forked Sundew) to native flora list • Concern over the removal of logs for fires (on/off reserve) • Secure boundary fencelines • Survey needed

Water

• Monitor water quality and water flow regimes in River Lett and Blackmans Creek

• Concern over human waste contaminating the environment • Current damage directly from vehicle access: erosion, silting of

River Lett • Flow regimes and diversion/extraction • Pollution from herbicides, pesticides and domestic waste from

upstream

Aboriginal Heritage

• Activities undertaken should be sensitive of Aboriginal concerns

• Support for conducting the archaeological survey on the reserve

• Aboriginal name for the Reserve


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KEY ISSUES IDENTIFIED

COMMENT

Vehicle Management

• Current damage directly from vehicle access: erosion, silting of River Lett

• Too much vehicle access within the reserve • Vehicle damage to vegetation • Erosion caused/exacerbated by vehicles • Difficult to satisfy all users

Education

• Significant aspects of the reserve • not leaving rubbish behind • Removal of rubbish • Walking track between Hyde Park and Londonderry Reserve • Installation of interpretive signage

Reserve Name

• Future consideration of changing the reserve name • Current name out of character with the landscape • Suggestion to use the Aboriginal name for the reserve if it can

be found

Land Use Planning

• Consideration of potential impacts on the reserve from recently approved sub-division

• Damage caused by access to river from new development • Concerns over current/future service infrastructure • Consideration of services to be installed subsurface to protect

aesthetics • Reserve encroachment from neighbouring properties • Impacts from subdivisions and developments through pollution

Reserve Activities

• Support for use of walking over driving within the reserve • Support for walking track to Londonderry Reserve, constructed

to provide minimal impact • Support for catering for low impact uses of the reserve

Threatened Species

• Limit traffic • Secure boundary fencelines • Undertake baseline population study and monitoring program

Amenities

• No built infrastructure to be installed anywhere in the Reserve • Suggestion of provision of picnic tables

Proposed Works

Program

• Support of the “loop road” proposal • Support for track rationalisation • Support for conservation earthworks, weed management, link

to Londonderry Reserve

Maintenance

• Rubbish collection by Council • Ranger patrols, possibly fines • Council to take control of access road and maintain • Investigate community trust body for Reserve management

Miscellaneous

• Support for investigating the boundary fence-line • Praise for works at Londonderry Reserve • Support for community meeting and consultation process • Commending and congratulations to Council • Noted extended exhibition period • Support for indigenous engagement • Identified need to look at other Council reserves

plan of management - city of lithgow

Documents