Update On Baleen 2D HR Seismic Survey
Muogamarra Season 2017
Hidden wildflower garden open for just six weekends31 July 2017: NPWS and NSW OE&HA hidden wildflower garden with a rare collection of botanical treasures and native plant species will open its gates this August and September for six weekends only.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Area Manager Michele Cooper said Muogamarra Nature Reserve-just north of Sydney-is home to more than 900 species of native plants as well as the remnants of an ancient volcano.
"Muogamarra is home to a vast range of Australian wildflowers such as native orchids, towering Gymea lily, pink Boronia, eriostemon and old-man Banksia, which makes it a spectacular wildflower destination," said Ms Cooper.
"This unique array of flora and fauna is one reason why we need to limit the opening times to just six weekends each year to allow it to flourish, to preserve the fragile ecosystems and to protect the reserve's Aboriginal cultural heritage.
"This year during our open season, visitors can join a Discovery guided tour on foot or on a kayak and discover the secrets of this special place," she said.
Some of the walking tracks in the reserve provide outstanding views of the Hawkesbury, Aboriginal rock engravings and convict built roads, and other tracks wind through rainforest and historic relics.
One of the guided walks leads people down to Peat's Crater, which is an unusual volcanic structure called a diatreme that is not found in many parts of Australia.
"By joining a guided walk you'll will see and learn all the secrets of the reserve that you might miss by going on your own," said Ms Cooper.
The launch weekend (12-13 August) will also mark the 50th anniversary of NPWS.
"The Muogamarra open season will launch on Saturday 12 August with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Ray Davison, cultural workshops throughout the day delivered by Aboriginal Discovery Ranger Jess Sinnott, and activities for young children including free show bags for the first 50 children," said Ms Cooper.
"While visitors can certainly come along on any of the weekends during our open season and explore the park at their own pace, keep in mind that the Discovery walks and kayak tours will need to be pre-booked online as numbers are limited and places can fill up quickly," she said.
Muogamarra Nature Reserve will open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 12 August until Sunday 17 September 2017.
What's on- Discovery tours include the Muogamarra Highlights Walk (new in 2017), Muogamarra Bird Gully Walk, Muogamarra Lloyd Trig Walk and Muogamarra Peats Bight Walk.
- A kayaking tour is also available: Paddle our Parks Muogamarra, the first of which will take place on Saturday 12 August.
- An event in celebration of the NPWS 50 Year Anniversary will take place on the first weekend (12 - 13 August).
More informationPrior bookings are essential for the guided walks and kayak tours and can be made by visiting the NPWS website:
Muogamurra Nature Reserve is located on the western side of the Pacific Highway, 3.35 kilometres north of Cowan Station.
A park access fee applies during the 6 annual open weekends of $15 for adults, $10 for children, and $40 for families of 2 adults and 2 children.
Hidden wildflower garden open for just six weekends
31 July 2017: NPWS and NSW OE&H
A hidden wildflower garden with a rare collection of botanical treasures and native plant species will open its gates this August and September for six weekends only.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Area Manager Michele Cooper said Muogamarra Nature Reserve-just north of Sydney-is home to more than 900 species of native plants as well as the remnants of an ancient volcano.
"Muogamarra is home to a vast range of Australian wildflowers such as native orchids, towering Gymea lily, pink Boronia, eriostemon and old-man Banksia, which makes it a spectacular wildflower destination," said Ms Cooper.
"This unique array of flora and fauna is one reason why we need to limit the opening times to just six weekends each year to allow it to flourish, to preserve the fragile ecosystems and to protect the reserve's Aboriginal cultural heritage.
"This year during our open season, visitors can join a Discovery guided tour on foot or on a kayak and discover the secrets of this special place," she said.
Some of the walking tracks in the reserve provide outstanding views of the Hawkesbury, Aboriginal rock engravings and convict built roads, and other tracks wind through rainforest and historic relics.
One of the guided walks leads people down to Peat's Crater, which is an unusual volcanic structure called a diatreme that is not found in many parts of Australia.
"By joining a guided walk you'll will see and learn all the secrets of the reserve that you might miss by going on your own," said Ms Cooper.
The launch weekend (12-13 August) will also mark the 50th anniversary of NPWS.
"The Muogamarra open season will launch on Saturday 12 August with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Ray Davison, cultural workshops throughout the day delivered by Aboriginal Discovery Ranger Jess Sinnott, and activities for young children including free show bags for the first 50 children," said Ms Cooper.
"While visitors can certainly come along on any of the weekends during our open season and explore the park at their own pace, keep in mind that the Discovery walks and kayak tours will need to be pre-booked online as numbers are limited and places can fill up quickly," she said.
Muogamarra Nature Reserve will open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 12 August until Sunday 17 September 2017.
What's on
- Discovery tours include the Muogamarra Highlights Walk (new in 2017), Muogamarra Bird Gully Walk, Muogamarra Lloyd Trig Walk and Muogamarra Peats Bight Walk.
- A kayaking tour is also available: Paddle our Parks Muogamarra, the first of which will take place on Saturday 12 August.
- An event in celebration of the NPWS 50 Year Anniversary will take place on the first weekend (12 - 13 August).
More information
Prior bookings are essential for the guided walks and kayak tours and can be made by visiting the NPWS website:
Muogamurra Nature Reserve is located on the western side of the Pacific Highway, 3.35 kilometres north of Cowan Station.
A park access fee applies during the 6 annual open weekends of $15 for adults, $10 for children, and $40 for families of 2 adults and 2 children.
Have Your Say On Marine Park Draft Plans
21 July 2017: Media release - Australian Government, Director of National ParksAustralia is surrounded by magnificent oceans and a marine environment that is the envy of the world. Our marine parks are distinctive and diverse, home to marine life found nowhere else.And from today you can have your say on how we will manage our marine parks into the future.
The Director of National Parks Sally Barnes has released five draft plans to manage 44 Australian Marine Parks over the next 10 years.“Our marine parks protect important marine habitats and species,” Ms Barnes said.
“They also support people’s livelihoods and the Australian lifestyle. They provide places for people to watch wildlife, dive and snorkel, go boating, and fish. They create jobs in industries like fishing and tourism, and are a source of food and energy.”
Ms Barnes said Australian Marine Parks recognised our oceans as a shared resource -– protecting our environment and supporting the sustainability of our fishing industry and the communities whose livelihoods rely on it.
“I’d encourage everyone to take a look at these five plans my team at Parks Australia have put together,” she said.
“This is your chance to influence how we’ll manage a large area of our marine environment over the next 10 years. We want to hear from you, all of you. It’s your passion that will make marine parks work for everyone.”
Australian Marine Parks (also known as Commonwealth marine reserves) were established in 2012 to protect our oceans. This was a significant contribution to Australia’s marine parks which now cover more than 3.3 million square kilometres of ocean – that’s an area the size of India.
“Before creating these plans, my team and I met with many of you from across our country. We listened to many people, fishers, conservationists, tourism operators, traditional owners and coastal communities before writing these plans,” Ms Barnes said.
“These draft plans balance our commitment to protect the marine environment, while supporting a sustainable fishing industry, promoting tourism and providing cultural, recreational and economic benefits for coastal communities.”
Australian Marine Parks are located in Commonwealth waters that start at the outer edge of state and territory waters, generally no less than three nautical miles (5.5 km) from the shore, and extend to the outer boundary of Australia’s exclusive economic zone, 200 nautical miles (about 370 km) from the shore. The draft plans cover Commonwealth waters off the coast of New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Individual marine parks have been carefully zoned to include representative examples of Australia’s marine habitats and features. This builds the resilience of our marine environment to withstand pressures, including some of the impacts of climate change, cyclones, marine pollution, and invasive species.
Ms Barnes has considered comments from over 54,000 submissions providing feedback on the preparation of draft plans. She has also considered the recommendations from the independent review of Commonwealth marine reserves released in 2016; the best available science; the expertise of traditional owners on managing sea country; and experiences from those managing Australian and international marine parks.
“Finalising these plans makes us one of the world’s leaders in marine protection. Already our country’s marine parks cover 36 per cent of waters around this country. That’s more than comparable to many similar countries, like the United States, France, Canada, Mexico or Chile,” Ms Barnes said.
“I truly believe that we will enhance our international reputation as marine park managers with these plans. But I want to hear your thoughts on whether we’ve got that balance right. Doing nothing is not an option for anyone – we want to provide certainty to all. So please have a read of the plans, and let us know what you think.”To reduce any impacts on commercial fishers, the Australian Government will make funding available to assist those directly affected by the new arrangements.
The draft plans can be found at www.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine .
We are seeking your feedback on whether we have the balance right in these draft plans. Please send your feedback on these draft plans or the proposed renaming by 20 September 2017, by:
1. Filling in our feedback form, available at: parksaustralia.gov.au/marine
2. Emailing: managementplanning.marine@environment.gov.au 3. Writing (free of charge) to: Australian Marine Parks Management Planning CommentsDepartment of the Environment and EnergyReply Paid 787Canberra ACT 2601 To help us to consider your feedback, please: • Say what you would like to see kept or changed in the plan/s and why• Refer your points to a specific marine park or use, where appropriate• Give sources of any information you refer to, where possible. Please note, comments sent after 11.59 pm AEST Wednesday 20 September 2017 or to an address other than those listed above cannot be considered. Comments may be made public. Personal information provided to us will be dealt with in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles.
Further information and our privacy notice is available atwww.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine. Your personal information may be disclosed to the Minister, relevant government agencies, the Australian Parliament and where required by law.
Your submission may also be published online by the Director of National Parks. Please tell us in your submission if you do not want it published. Your submission will still be considered in the Director’s Report on the Preparation of the Management Plans, and may be provided to the Minister and tabled before Parliament.
Important facts and figuresWith 36 per cent of Australia’s waters included in marine parks, we are well ahead of both the international benchmark ‘Aichi target’ of 10 per cent by 2020, and a recent World Conservation Congress resolution calling for 30 per cent by 2030.
According to data from the IUCN’s World Database on Protected Areas, we compare very favourably with the United States of America (41 per cent), New Zealand (30 per cent), the United Kingdom (28 per cent), Mexico (22 per cent), Canada (less than 1 per cent), and France (15 per cent).
Under the zoning proposed in the draft plans, the portion of green (or no take) zones within all of the marine parks managed by the Commonwealth would be 25 per cent.
There is no reliable ‘league table’ against which we can compare this with other nations as methodology and reporting differ considerably, but we are among the closest nations to meeting the 2016 call by the World Conservation Congress four countries to designate 30 per cent of their marine parks to have no extractive activities.
Thanks to our carefully targeted approach to zoning, the same number of conservation features are protected in green zones in the plans released today as those in 2012.
Australia’s biodiversity hotspots and sites of ecological significance, including Coral Sea reefs and the Bremer Reserve are protected in these plans.
97 per cent of waters within 100 kilometres of the coast are open for recreational fishing.
By intelligently zoning conservation areas like this, we have halved the economic impact on commercial fishers compared with 2012, from $8.2 million to $4.1 million a year (that’s less than 0.3 per cent of total income generated by Australia’s wild catch fisheries). This zoning will also enable a continued Australian tuna fishing industry based out of northern Queensland.
The Australian Government has committed an additional $56.1 million over four years to fund the management of Australian Marine Parks.Our more balanced approach means there is a significant increase in yellow zones – where the seafloor is protected, but activities like diving and fishing are allowed. Our green zones are based on the best available science – while minimising impacts on our important tourism and fishing industries.
21 July 2017: Media release - Australian Government, Director of National Parks
Australia is surrounded by magnificent oceans and a marine environment that is the envy of the world. Our marine parks are distinctive and diverse, home to marine life found nowhere else.
And from today you can have your say on how we will manage our marine parks into the future.
The Director of National Parks Sally Barnes has released five draft plans to manage 44 Australian Marine Parks over the next 10 years.
“Our marine parks protect important marine habitats and species,” Ms Barnes said.
“They also support people’s livelihoods and the Australian lifestyle. They provide places for people to watch wildlife, dive and snorkel, go boating, and fish. They create jobs in industries like fishing and tourism, and are a source of food and energy.”
Ms Barnes said Australian Marine Parks recognised our oceans as a shared resource -– protecting our environment and supporting the sustainability of our fishing industry and the communities whose livelihoods rely on it.
“I’d encourage everyone to take a look at these five plans my team at Parks Australia have put together,” she said.
“This is your chance to influence how we’ll manage a large area of our marine environment over the next 10 years. We want to hear from you, all of you. It’s your passion that will make marine parks work for everyone.”
Australian Marine Parks (also known as Commonwealth marine reserves) were established in 2012 to protect our oceans. This was a significant contribution to Australia’s marine parks which now cover more than 3.3 million square kilometres of ocean – that’s an area the size of India.
“Before creating these plans, my team and I met with many of you from across our country. We listened to many people, fishers, conservationists, tourism operators, traditional owners and coastal communities before writing these plans,” Ms Barnes said.
“These draft plans balance our commitment to protect the marine environment, while supporting a sustainable fishing industry, promoting tourism and providing cultural, recreational and economic benefits for coastal communities.”
Australian Marine Parks are located in Commonwealth waters that start at the outer edge of state and territory waters, generally no less than three nautical miles (5.5 km) from the shore, and extend to the outer boundary of Australia’s exclusive economic zone, 200 nautical miles (about 370 km) from the shore. The draft plans cover Commonwealth waters off the coast of New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Individual marine parks have been carefully zoned to include representative examples of Australia’s marine habitats and features. This builds the resilience of our marine environment to withstand pressures, including some of the impacts of climate change, cyclones, marine pollution, and invasive species.
Ms Barnes has considered comments from over 54,000 submissions providing feedback on the preparation of draft plans. She has also considered the recommendations from the independent review of Commonwealth marine reserves released in 2016; the best available science; the expertise of traditional owners on managing sea country; and experiences from those managing Australian and international marine parks.
“Finalising these plans makes us one of the world’s leaders in marine protection. Already our country’s marine parks cover 36 per cent of waters around this country. That’s more than comparable to many similar countries, like the United States, France, Canada, Mexico or Chile,” Ms Barnes said.
“I truly believe that we will enhance our international reputation as marine park managers with these plans. But I want to hear your thoughts on whether we’ve got that balance right. Doing nothing is not an option for anyone – we want to provide certainty to all. So please have a read of the plans, and let us know what you think.”
To reduce any impacts on commercial fishers, the Australian Government will make funding available to assist those directly affected by the new arrangements.
The draft plans can be found at www.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine .
We are seeking your feedback on whether we have the balance right in these draft plans. Please send your feedback on these draft plans or the proposed renaming by 20 September 2017, by:
1. Filling in our feedback form, available at: parksaustralia.gov.au/marine
2. Emailing: managementplanning.marine@environment.gov.au
3. Writing (free of charge) to:
Australian Marine Parks Management Planning Comments
Department of the Environment and Energy
Reply Paid 787
Canberra ACT 2601
To help us to consider your feedback, please:
• Say what you would like to see kept or changed in the plan/s and why
• Refer your points to a specific marine park or use, where appropriate
• Give sources of any information you refer to, where possible.
Please note, comments sent after 11.59 pm AEST Wednesday 20 September 2017 or to an address other than those listed above cannot be considered.
Comments may be made public. Personal information provided to us will be dealt with in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles.
Further information and our privacy notice is available atwww.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine. Your personal information may be disclosed to the Minister, relevant government agencies, the Australian Parliament and where required by law.
Your submission may also be published online by the Director of National Parks. Please tell us in your submission if you do not want it published. Your submission will still be considered in the Director’s Report on the Preparation of the Management Plans, and may be provided to the Minister and tabled before Parliament.
Important facts and figures
With 36 per cent of Australia’s waters included in marine parks, we are well ahead of both the international benchmark ‘Aichi target’ of 10 per cent by 2020, and a recent World Conservation Congress resolution calling for 30 per cent by 2030.
According to data from the IUCN’s World Database on Protected Areas, we compare very favourably with the United States of America (41 per cent), New Zealand (30 per cent), the United Kingdom (28 per cent), Mexico (22 per cent), Canada (less than 1 per cent), and France (15 per cent).
Under the zoning proposed in the draft plans, the portion of green (or no take) zones within all of the marine parks managed by the Commonwealth would be 25 per cent.
There is no reliable ‘league table’ against which we can compare this with other nations as methodology and reporting differ considerably, but we are among the closest nations to meeting the 2016 call by the World Conservation Congress four countries to designate 30 per cent of their marine parks to have no extractive activities.
Thanks to our carefully targeted approach to zoning, the same number of conservation features are protected in green zones in the plans released today as those in 2012.
Australia’s biodiversity hotspots and sites of ecological significance, including Coral Sea reefs and the Bremer Reserve are protected in these plans.
97 per cent of waters within 100 kilometres of the coast are open for recreational fishing.
By intelligently zoning conservation areas like this, we have halved the economic impact on commercial fishers compared with 2012, from $8.2 million to $4.1 million a year (that’s less than 0.3 per cent of total income generated by Australia’s wild catch fisheries). This zoning will also enable a continued Australian tuna fishing industry based out of northern Queensland.
The Australian Government has committed an additional $56.1 million over four years to fund the management of Australian Marine Parks.
Our more balanced approach means there is a significant increase in yellow zones – where the seafloor is protected, but activities like diving and fishing are allowed. Our green zones are based on the best available science – while minimising impacts on our important tourism and fishing industries.
New Rules To Better Protect And Enable Access To The Whitsundays
Have Your Say On New Environmental Measures For Scrap Metal Businesses
Media release: 26 July 2017 - EPAThe NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is inviting the community to have a say on proposed minimum environmental standards for scrap metal facilities.
The scrap metal industry in NSW ranges from small car wrecking yards to large metal processing facilities, and plays an important role in diverting waste from landfill and recovering resources.
While many operators in the industry are doing the right thing, some scrap metal businesses have shown poor environmental controls and inadequate management practices. Common issues across the industry have required regulatory action by the EPA and other agencies. These issues include management of oils and solvents, air pollution and odour issues, noise and vibration, fire risks and the on-site management of waste. Inadequate management of these issues can lead to pollution incidents, including soil and groundwater contamination.
To address these environmental concerns, the EPA has drafted a consultation paper that outlines proposed minimum environmental standards across the scrap metal industry. These standards include things like putting controls in place for the safe storage and disposal of liquids and chemicals, no burning of waste on site, measures to minimise noise and vibrations, and the construction of bunds to manage any spills. If adopted these standards would be legislated and apply across the industry.
EPA Executive Director Waste and Resource Recovery Steve Beaman said the proposed standards were an important step in the right direction.
“Many scrap metal businesses are doing the right thing but there are some outliers putting the environment at risk,” Mr Beaman said.
“It’s important for the community – including people working in the scrap metal business – to have their say on these proposed environmental standards so that when they come into force, they accurately reflect the challenges and realities of the industry.”
To view the consultation paper and provide feedback please visit the EPA website The submission period closes at 5pm on 18 September 2017.
Media release: 26 July 2017 - EPA
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is inviting the community to have a say on proposed minimum environmental standards for scrap metal facilities.
The scrap metal industry in NSW ranges from small car wrecking yards to large metal processing facilities, and plays an important role in diverting waste from landfill and recovering resources.
While many operators in the industry are doing the right thing, some scrap metal businesses have shown poor environmental controls and inadequate management practices. Common issues across the industry have required regulatory action by the EPA and other agencies. These issues include management of oils and solvents, air pollution and odour issues, noise and vibration, fire risks and the on-site management of waste. Inadequate management of these issues can lead to pollution incidents, including soil and groundwater contamination.
To address these environmental concerns, the EPA has drafted a consultation paper that outlines proposed minimum environmental standards across the scrap metal industry. These standards include things like putting controls in place for the safe storage and disposal of liquids and chemicals, no burning of waste on site, measures to minimise noise and vibrations, and the construction of bunds to manage any spills. If adopted these standards would be legislated and apply across the industry.
EPA Executive Director Waste and Resource Recovery Steve Beaman said the proposed standards were an important step in the right direction.
“Many scrap metal businesses are doing the right thing but there are some outliers putting the environment at risk,” Mr Beaman said.
“It’s important for the community – including people working in the scrap metal business – to have their say on these proposed environmental standards so that when they come into force, they accurately reflect the challenges and realities of the industry.”
To view the consultation paper and provide feedback please visit the EPA website
The submission period closes at 5pm on 18 September 2017.
Free Guided Bush Walk.
Dundundra Falls Reserve, Terrey Hills.10th September 10 -12 pm at Myoora end of Larool Road Fire Trail Terrey HillsCome down and enjoy the wild flowers and have all your questions answered by our qualified bush consultant.
This reserve is exploding with colour at the moment so even if you can’t make this special walk you can come down anytime and enjoy our new map and information signs and appreciate what this 40 Hectare recreational Reserve is all about.
Wear clothes and shoes suitable for bush walking and be prepared for Ticks and Leeches as unfortunately they like living here too.
Questions to dundundrafalls@gmail.com
Dundundra Falls Reserve, Terrey Hills.
10th September 10 -12 pm at Myoora end of Larool Road Fire Trail Terrey Hills
Come down and enjoy the wild flowers and have all your questions answered by our qualified bush consultant.
This reserve is exploding with colour at the moment so even if you can’t make this special walk you can come down anytime and enjoy our new map and information signs and appreciate what this 40 Hectare recreational Reserve is all about.
Wear clothes and shoes suitable for bush walking and be prepared for Ticks and Leeches as unfortunately they like living here too.
Questions to dundundrafalls@gmail.com
Navigation Warning - NSW Coastal Waters: Whale Migration Season
LGNSW Congratulates Minister On CDS Milestone
Ski And Board Through Kosciuszko National Park's Virtual Streets
Media release: 3 August 2017: NPWSIs it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It's a camera-mounted Google Trekker backpack strapped to a park ranger skiing Kosciuszko National Park's slopes and resorts.
For the first-time the Google Street View Trekker has been taken on skis by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and captured 360 degree views of the high country and ski resorts.
Tim Greville is the intrepid NPWS ranger who took the trekker onto the slopes.
"The images captured by the trekker are now on Google Street View, so people can literally take a slide on my skis and see the park's cross country trails from their tablet or mobile device," said Mr Greville.
"These free digital 'maps' mean skiers and snowboarders can scope out trails before they come to the park and better plan their trip.
"Or for those who have never skied before, Street View from the slopes gives a pretty good sense of what to expect and may whet their appetite for a trip to the snow.
"This Street View series is also a great way for people who are mobility impaired to see this spectacular country in Winter.
While nothing compares to seeing the snow fall and breathing the fresh mountain air, these maps open Kosciuszko National Park and its resorts to a whole new audience.
Richard Phillips, Sales and Marketing Manager at Perisher said the Google Trekker backpack was attached to a snowmobile and taken across the resort areas of Perisher, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega.
"Fantastic images were collected that showcase the huge amount of terrain available for skiers and boarders across the resort. Having this content available online will be a great tool in promoting the whole area," said Mr Phillips.
Stuart Diver, Resort Operations Manager at Thredbo said that it's exciting to know that now, from all corners of the globe, people can put themselves in the heart of Thredbo.
"From anywhere in the world you can take a tour around the resort and experience the Snowy Mountains," said Mr Diver.
The new Google Street View imagery of Kosciuszko National Park can be seen at Google Street View Trekker in NSW national parks
Media release: 3 August 2017: NPWS
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It's a camera-mounted Google Trekker backpack strapped to a park ranger skiing Kosciuszko National Park's slopes and resorts.
For the first-time the Google Street View Trekker has been taken on skis by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and captured 360 degree views of the high country and ski resorts.
Tim Greville is the intrepid NPWS ranger who took the trekker onto the slopes.
"The images captured by the trekker are now on Google Street View, so people can literally take a slide on my skis and see the park's cross country trails from their tablet or mobile device," said Mr Greville.
"These free digital 'maps' mean skiers and snowboarders can scope out trails before they come to the park and better plan their trip.
"Or for those who have never skied before, Street View from the slopes gives a pretty good sense of what to expect and may whet their appetite for a trip to the snow.
"This Street View series is also a great way for people who are mobility impaired to see this spectacular country in Winter.
While nothing compares to seeing the snow fall and breathing the fresh mountain air, these maps open Kosciuszko National Park and its resorts to a whole new audience.
Richard Phillips, Sales and Marketing Manager at Perisher said the Google Trekker backpack was attached to a snowmobile and taken across the resort areas of Perisher, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega.
"Fantastic images were collected that showcase the huge amount of terrain available for skiers and boarders across the resort. Having this content available online will be a great tool in promoting the whole area," said Mr Phillips.
Stuart Diver, Resort Operations Manager at Thredbo said that it's exciting to know that now, from all corners of the globe, people can put themselves in the heart of Thredbo.
"From anywhere in the world you can take a tour around the resort and experience the Snowy Mountains," said Mr Diver.
The new Google Street View imagery of Kosciuszko National Park can be seen at Google Street View Trekker in NSW national parks
Spot The Spotted-Tailed Quoll
Department Seeks Community Input On Improving Environmental Impact Assessments
Bushcare’s Major Day Out At Mona Vale 2017
Grants Of Up To $3 Million Available For Innovative Solutions For Organic Waste
4nature Inc V Centennial Springvale Pty Limited And Others
Memorial Dedicated To Staff On World Ranger Day
Monday, July 31st, 2017: The Hon. Gabrielle Upton, Minister for the Environment
The NSW Government has dedicated a memorial to National Parks and Wildlife Service staff who have lost their lives in the line of duty on World Ranger Day, NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said today.
World Ranger Day is observed on the 31 July each year to commemorate the many rangers killed or injured in the line of duty.
Ms Upton said the memorial near Govetts Leap in the Blue Mountains National Park acknowledged 10 men and women since 1978 who have lost their lives while doing their job protecting the state’s conservation areas.
“Caring for NSW’s national parks and reserves is no ordinary job. Our rangers and staff are extraordinary people,” Ms Upton said.
“They make a difference every day to the conservation and enjoyment of national parks. The work they do is important, rewarding, but also sometimes dangerous.
“Today is about taking a moment to say thank you for the contribution these men and women made to our community and to our State’s conservation.”
Photos courtesy Pittwater's Julie Hegarty, a Member of the National Park and Wildlife Advisory Council:
"I was fortunate to be a special guest at the NPWS Memorial Dedication at George Phillips Lookout, Blue Mountains National Park, to honour those employees that have lost their lives in the line of duty. A sobering moment standing in 7degree temps in the rain."
Monday, July 31st, 2017: The Hon. Gabrielle Upton, Minister for the Environment
The NSW Government has dedicated a memorial to National Parks and Wildlife Service staff who have lost their lives in the line of duty on World Ranger Day, NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said today.
World Ranger Day is observed on the 31 July each year to commemorate the many rangers killed or injured in the line of duty.
Ms Upton said the memorial near Govetts Leap in the Blue Mountains National Park acknowledged 10 men and women since 1978 who have lost their lives while doing their job protecting the state’s conservation areas.
“Caring for NSW’s national parks and reserves is no ordinary job. Our rangers and staff are extraordinary people,” Ms Upton said.
“They make a difference every day to the conservation and enjoyment of national parks. The work they do is important, rewarding, but also sometimes dangerous.
“Today is about taking a moment to say thank you for the contribution these men and women made to our community and to our State’s conservation.”
Photos courtesy Pittwater's Julie Hegarty, a Member of the National Park and Wildlife Advisory Council:
"I was fortunate to be a special guest at the NPWS Memorial Dedication at George Phillips Lookout, Blue Mountains National Park, to honour those employees that have lost their lives in the line of duty. A sobering moment standing in 7degree temps in the rain."
A Further $6 Million For 20 Million Trees Available For Community Projects
Bird Walks And Talks 2017: PNHA
Come and see and hear some of our fantastic native birds, many of which you'll never see in your garden. Join in a Sunday guided bird walk with Pittwater Natural Heritage Association. All walks start at 8am and end about 10am.
August 27 Chiltern Track. Meet at gate, off northern of Chiltern Rd Ingleside.
September 17 Irrawong reserve. Meet at corner Irrawong Rd and Epworth Rd.November 26 Warriewood Wetlands. Meet end of Katoa Close, north Narrabeen.
Bring binoculars if possible. Drink, hat and comfortable shoes.More information contact pnhabirdwatching@gmail.com or Ph Kerry on 0402 605 721.
You don't need to book but if we know you're coming we'll watch out for you. Call if in doubt about weather as we won't go out if it's raining.
Come and see and hear some of our fantastic native birds, many of which you'll never see in your garden. Join in a Sunday guided bird walk with Pittwater Natural Heritage Association. All walks start at 8am and end about 10am.
August 27 Chiltern Track. Meet at gate, off northern of Chiltern Rd Ingleside.
September 17 Irrawong reserve. Meet at corner Irrawong Rd and Epworth Rd.
November 26 Warriewood Wetlands. Meet end of Katoa Close, north Narrabeen.
Bring binoculars if possible. Drink, hat and comfortable shoes.
More information contact pnhabirdwatching@gmail.com or
Ph Kerry on 0402 605 721.
You don't need to book but if we know you're coming we'll watch out for you. Call if in doubt about weather as we won't go out if it's raining.
Petition: Rescind Adani's Unlimited Water License And Support Aussie Farmers!
Take Precautions To Reduce Risk Of Spreading Flu
04 August 2017: NSW Dept. of Health
With reported cases of influenza yet to peak, NSW Health is urging people to take precautions to reduce their risk of getting or spreading the contagious illness.
With 19,483 influenza cases reported this year to 4 August, data from previous seasons suggest a peak is likely in the next fortnight.
The latest NSW Health weekly influenza surveillance report, with data up to 30 July, shows that influenza activity has increased further in the community with multiples strains of the influenza virus circulating.
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director Communicable Diseases NSW Health, said people with flu symptoms should take extra care to avoid spreading their infection to family and friends who may be at greater risk of a severe influenza infection.
“Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, disposing of used tissues and washing hands thoroughly and often are simple precautions people can take from spreading flu,” Dr Sheppeard said.
“We are seeing high levels of both influenza A and B strains circulating in the community, which places vulnerable people at high risk of catching the influenza and developing severe complications. There have also been 150 outbreaks reported in aged care facilities since the start of the year.”
Dr Sheppeard said people with flu symptoms should also avoid going out unless it’s to see their doctor, and they should stay away from school and work until they have fully recovered.
“It is also important to remember that it’s not too late to vaccinate. Winter will be here for another month and we usually see influenza activity continue into September.”
People at high risk of influenza complications, such as elderly people and younger people with chronic conditions, Aboriginal people in certain age groups, and pregnant women, were also strongly advised to have the influenza vaccination to reduce the risk of influenza.
The weekly report, which includes data from last week, shows there was a marked increase in presentations to emergency departments for pneumonia and influenza-like illness state-wide, with 526 people needing to be admitted for pneumonia including 53 critical care admissions in the week ending 30 July. Despite the increased demand, NSW Health is managing the surge in activity.
“During peak times we encourage people to seek advice from their GPs and HealthDirect, a 24 hour helpline that provides immediate health advice on line from registered nurses,” Dr Sheppeard said.
Influenza symptoms include: fever and chills; cough, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose; muscle aches and joint pains; headaches and fatigue; nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
To minimise the risk of developing influenza:
- get vaccinated every year – vaccination is best before winter starts but it’s not too late to be vaccinated
- wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and dispose of used tissues
- ask sick people to stay away until they are well
- if you are vulnerable to severe influenza see your doctor as soon as influenza symptoms start as early treatment of influenza can help prevent complications.
For more information see the NSW Health Influenza website:http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Flu
Disability Support For Conferences
2 August 2017: Media Release
The Federal Government will spend $313,000 to help people with disability take part in conferences across the country.
Grants of up to $10,000 have been awarded to 33 organisations under the National Disability Conference Initiative (NDCI).
The Hon Jane Prentice, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, said the initiative is an example of the Australian Government’s aim to create inclusive and accessible communities.
“The National Disability Conference Initiative grants will assist people with disability to participate in conferences about important issues affecting their social participation and overall wellbeing,” Mrs Prentice said.
The grants can be used to assist with the costs of conference fees, accommodation and domestic travel for people with disability and their carers.
Services such as Auslan interpreters live captioning services, hearing loops, note-takers for people who are deaf and hearing impaired, and conference materials in a range of alternative formats such as Braille or larger font can also be covered.
The National Disability Conference Initiative also promotes the principles of the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020.
Organisations receiving National Disability Conference Initiative funding to support the inclusion of people with disability in conferences during 2017-18 are:
Action for More Independence & Dignity in Accommodation
Albinism Fellowship of Australia
Alzheimer’s Australia VIC
Arts Access Australia
Attendant Care Industry Association (Australia).
Aus Docc
Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability
Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association
Autism Association of Western Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT)
Belonging Matters
Blind Alliance Australia
Blind Citizens Australia
Brain Injury Australia
Charge Syndrome Association of Australasia
CHI.L.D The Association for Childhood Language and Related Disorders
Children and Young People with Disability Australia
Community Mental Health Australia
Disability Employment Australia
IDEAS Information on Disability Education Awareness Services.
Metabolic Dietary Disorders Association
Motor Neurone Disease Australia
Multiple Sclerosis Australia
National Disability Services
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Society of Australia (Brittle Bones)
People with Disability Australia
People with Multiple Sclerosis (Vic)
Round Table for Information Access for People with Print Disabilities
Sailability New South Wales.
Short Statured People of Australia
Speak Out Association Of Tasmania
The Immune Deficiency Foundation of Australia
Tuberous Sclerosis Australia
World First Light Rail Vehicle Arrives In Sydney
August 1, 2017: Office of The Hon. Gladys Berejiklian, Premier of NSW
The first of a brand new fleet of light rail vehicles has arrived in Sydney from France and was officially unveiled today by Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance.
The world first glimpse of the new vehicle in Randwick for the CBD and South East Light Rail marks a significant step towards the new transport system coming to life.
“It is a really exciting day to be standing here with the first of our world-class light rail vehicles and offering the people of NSW a glimpse of this innovative, modern vehicle,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We know the travelling public have been patiently waiting for this major milestone.”
Sixty vehicles are heading to Sydney to operate the new light rail system from Circular Quay to Randwick and Kingsford operating as 30 coupled sets, 67 metres in length.
“Sydney is the first city in the world to receive the Citadis X05 vehicle and I am pleased to note they are fully accessible with low-floors, double doors, dedicated areas for wheelchairs and prams and low-level on-board passenger intercoms,” Mr Constance said.
“These trams use four times less energy than an average bus and 10 times less energy than a car.
“The next step will be to begin testing the vehicles along part of the track later in the year, ahead of services starting operation in 2019.”
Each light rail vehicle set can carry up to 450 people, equivalent of up to nine standard buses, meaning less congestion on Sydney’s roads and more reliable travel times.
Currently, more than 50 cities worldwide use global rail transport supplier Alstom’s Citadis light rail vehicles, with the X05 model to be a world first in Sydney.
The CBD and South East Light Rail will provide reliable, high frequency ‘turn up and go’ transport services from Circular Quay and the CBD, to Randwick and Kingsford via Surry Hills, Moore Park and Kensington by early 2019.
Cracking The Code Of Megapests
August 3rd, 2017: CSIRO
Helicoverpa armigera. Credit: CSIRO
For the first time, researchers from Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) have mapped the complete genome of two closely related megapests potentially saving the international agricultural community billions of dollars a year.
Led by CSIRO, in collaboration with a team of experts, the researchers identified more than 17,000 protein coding genes in the genomes of the Helicoverpa armigera and Helicoverpa zea (commonly known as the Cotton Bollworm and Corn Earworm, respectively).
They also documented how these genetics have changed overtime.
This level of detail makes it easier for scientists to predict both the caterpillars' weak spots, how they will mutate and even breed plants they will not want to eat.
The bollworm and earworm are the world's greatest caterpillar pests of broad-acre crops, causing in excess of US $5 billion in control costs and damage each year across Asia, Europe, Africa, America and Australia.
The bollworm, which is dominant in Australia, attacks more crops and develops much more resistance to pesticides than its earworm counterpart.
"It is the single most important pest of agriculture in the world, making it humanity's greatest competitor for food and fibre," CSIRO Scientist Dr John Oakeshott said.
"Its genomic arsenal has allowed it to outgun all our known insecticides through the development of resistance, reflecting its name -- armigera which means armed and warlike."
In Brazil the bollworm has been spreading rapidly and there have been cases of of it hybridising with the earworm, posing a real threat that the new and improved "superbug" could spread into the United States.
In the mid-90s CSIRO assisted Australian cotton breeders to incorporate Bt insect resistance genes in their varieties to try and tackle the bollworm.
"Bt cotton" plants dispatch an insecticide from a bacteria -- Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) -- that is toxic to the caterpillar.
In the following 10 years, there was an 80 per cent reduction in the use of chemical pesticides previously required to control bollworms.
However the bollworm soon fought back with a small percentage of them building resistance to BT cotton and scientists introducing further strains of insecticides to manage the problem.
CSIRO Health and Biosecurity Honorary Fellow Dr Karl Gordon said while a combination of BT and some insecticides was working well in Australia, it can be costly and it was important to comprehensive studying the pest themselves to manage the problem world-wide.
"We need the full range of agricultural science," Dr Gordon said.
"Our recent analyses of the complete genome, its adaptations and spread over the years are a huge step forward in combating these megapests."
Identifying pest origins will enable resistance profiling that reflects countries of origin to be included when developing a resistance management strategy, while identifying incursion pathways will improve biosecurity protocols and risk analysis at biosecurity hotspots including national ports.
As part of the research, CSIRO and the team updated a previously developed potential distribution model to highlight the global invasion threat, with emphasis on the risks to the United States.
The findings further provide the first solid foundation for comparative evolutionary and functional genomic studies on related and other lepidopteran pests, many of considerable impact and scientific interest.
$40 Million For Dementia Research Projects
01 August 2017: Media Release - Office of the Hon Greg Hunt MP
Minister for Health and Minister for Sport
The Turnbull Government is allocating more than $40 million to medical research projects which will improve the lives of Australians fighting dementia.
Dementia is one of the leading causes of death in Australia and we must do everything we can to investigate and the causes and effects of this terrible disease.
People with dementia and their carers helped set the priorities for these research projects and contributed to the expert review which picked the successful grants.
The 45 projects receiving funding are critical to addressing this growing health issue and in accelerating our fight to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage dementia, including its most common form, Alzheimer’s disease.
In 2017, there are estimated to be 413,106 Australians living with dementia and by 2025 this number is expected to increase to 536,000.[2]
This is not just an Australian issue, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognises dementia as a global public health priority.
Dementia is more likely to occur amongst Aboriginal people and over 8 per cent of the proposed funding has a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research.
One of the projects led by Dr Jamie Bryant at the University of Newcastle, and will look at improving timely diagnosis and provision of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with dementia.
Over $1.2 million will go into support, identification and improved services for indigenous people living with dementia, led by Dr Bryant’s team, in close collaboration with Aboriginal Health Services.
Investigating ways in which dementia and diabetes are linked as well as considering prevention of both will be a key part of Dr Ryusuke Takech’s project based at Curtin University.
Finding ways to improve sleep as a way of reducing dementia will be a project led by Dr Craig Phillips from the University of Sydney.
They will explore the pathophysiological mechanisms that link disturbed sleep and circadian rhythm with cognitive impairment and dementia.
This research will investigate how circadian disruption in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea and mild cognitive impairment can affect the body and brain vascular function.
These projects will be administered by the Commonwealth’s peak research body, the National Health and Medical Research Council.
A full list of grant recipients is available on the NHMRC website: www.nhmrc.gov.au.
1 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2015) Causes of Death, Australia, 2015 (cat. no. 3303.0) 2 The National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling NATSEM (2016) Economic Cost of Dementia in Australia 2016-2056
Champions! Australia Wins Tournament Of Nations
Friday, 4 August 2017
by Staff Writer of Westfield Matildas
Another dazzling display from the Westfield Matildas has seen them take out the inaugural Tournament of Champions following a 6-1 demolition of Brazil in California on Friday morning (AEST).
Despite going behind early, Australia’s speed, movement and technical quality shone through as they tore the South American heavyweights apart.
After earlier wins over USA and Japan, the emphatic victory made it a perfect three-from-three at the tournament for Alen Stajcic’s side to claim the title, their first piece of silverware since their 2010 AFC Asian Cup triumph.
Australia’s dominant display not only means they inflicted Brazil’s heaviest defeat since a 6-0 loss to the USA in 1999 but also exacts some revenge for the defeat to them at last year’s Rio Olympic Games.
The win will also give the Westfield Matildas a huge psychological advantage heading into their two-game home series against Brazil next month.
The passing of Australian football broadcasting great Les Murray inspired the Westfield Matildas in their 6-1 thrashing of Brazil in the USA, it’s been revealed.
Star striker Lisa De Vanna revealed the death this week of the immensely popular broadcaster struck a chord with the Australian women, as they prepared to face the South Americans in California on Friday (AEST) in the Tournament of Nations.
“Today was emotional,” De Vanna told AAP’s Ben McKay (@benmackey) after the win.
“Staj [coach Alen Stajcic] usually puts different things in team meetings and today it was all about Les.
“You could tell in Staj’s voice how much he and [fellow SBS commentator] Johnny Warren meant to him and the game.
“For obviously Polks [Clare Polkinghorne] and Lydia [Williams] who are senior players, we obviously knew all about his legacy and what this man fought for.
“Just like we are fighting to be the best team, to be recognised and to lift the game and the women’s game in Australia."
De Vanna was one of the keys to the romp against the Brazilians, scoring twice and proving a constant menace alongside Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord.
She is now the all-time leading goalscorer in the Matildas with 42 goals, one ahead of the great Kate Gill.
“Les was a pioneer. Staj laid out how he was like us women, fighting to show what we can do. And for Australia.
“A lot of the girls took that advice onto the field and it showed.
“To go out and score six goals, it was a bit of a dedication to Les," De Vanna added.
The NSW Government has confirmed there will be a state funeral for Les Murray.
Fresh from a 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Australia, Brazil have the opportunity for instant revenge when they visit our shores next month.
The Westfield Matildas will host Brazil in a two-match series in September.
On Saturday September 16, the two will clash at Pepper Stadium in Penrith at 3pm.
Three days later on Tuesday September 19, they’ll lock horns again at Newcastle International Sports Centre from 7.30pm.
The stands are certain to be packed with fans of Australia’s latest sporting sensations!
Find out more at: http://matildas.footballaustralia.com.au/
Mawson’s Huskies Make It Onto The Map
2nd August 2017: Australian Antarctic Division, Dept. of Environment and Energy, Australian Government
The huskies used in early Antarctic exploration are being immortalised with their names bestowed on a variety of prominent landmarks across the icy continent.
The Australian Antarctic Division Place Names Committee today announced 26 islands, rocks and reefs are being named after the beloved dogs which played a critical role in Australia’s heroic era of exploration a century ago.
Committee Chair, Gillian Slocum, said the huskies served alongside Sir Douglas Mawson and his men.
A husky dog from the Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE) taken at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay. (Photo: Frank Hurley)
“The dogs were used for expedition transport, pulling sleds laden with supplies, as well as providing companionship for the men,” Ms Slocum said.
“While some of the dogs returned to Australia, others sadly perished in the harsh conditions.”
A number of features near Cape Denison, where Mawson’s Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE) of 1911–1914 was based, have been named after the huskies.
“Given their important contribution to Antarctic exploration, it is appropriate to name Antarctic landmarks in their honour with the most prominent features named after the most important dogs.”
“Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen gifted Mawson a husky named Lassesen, in honour of the dog that was with him when he reached the South Pole in 1911. Lassesen Island in the Mackellar Islands is named after Mawson’s dog.
“Pavlova Island, Ginger Reef and Devil Rock were all four-legged members of the AAE. Pavlova was named after the famed Russian dancer Anna Pavlova, who was a friend of Belgrave Ninnis who cared for the dogs during the expedition.
“Ninnis later died during the ill-fated Far Eastern Party sledging journey, when he and six of the party’s best dogs, as well as most of the supplies, fell through a crevasse.”
Other huskies named after royalty, explorers, sporting champions, singers, comedians and Greek mythology lend their names to features such as Mary Island, Caruso Rock, Jeffries Rock and Franklin Reef.
Ms Slocum said the latitude and longitude of each feature is confirmed when they are named.
“The approved name, coordinates and a narrative describing the feature are recorded in the Australian Antarctic Gazetteer and Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) Composite Gazetteer of Antarctica.
“Accurate names and positions are critical for scientific research and operations in Antarctica and satellite imagery is allowing us to better identify islands which we may have previously been unsure whether a feature was an island or iceberg,” she said.
The Australian Antarctic Division’s Place Names Committee oversees the naming of features in the Australian Antarctic Territory, Heard Island and McDonald Islands and territorial seas.
The Australian Antarctic Gazetteer records all the Australian Antarctic place names.
Mackellar Islands at Cape Denison (Photo: Dean Lewins)