What's That Smell? - Is It A Gasfield, A Party For Coal Chiefs At Parliament House - Or More CORRUPTION??!
Australians Against AGL Dalton Power Project
We are committed to protecting the environment in which we live from the greed and corruption of energy company AGL.
AGL wish to destroy our communities, land, environment and future with the construction of Australia’s largest gas-fired power station in Dalton, NSW.
Our campaign to put a stop to this unnecessary corporate profiteering and environmental vandalism is of local and national concern.
It is time dirty energy companies were made accountable for their complete disregard for the environment, our communities and the destruction of our collective goal toward a renewable future.
The FACTSThe plant’s first stage will be 750 MW of gas-fired power generation, expanding to 1000 MW in Phase 2.
The Dalton plant will be the largest gas-fired plant in Australia, with the next closest being Colongra at 667 MW, Uranquinty at 641 MW and Darling Downs at 630 MW.
In comparison, Australian base-load coal-fired power plants range from 107 MW (Worsley Alumina Power Station, WA) to 2880 MW (Eraring, NSW) with the average being approximately 1300 MW .
The plant is a peaking power plant, operating when wholesale prices are high.
Peaking gas-fired power plants still produce approximately 85% of the greenhouse gas emissions of coal-fired power plants.
Other by-products of this plant include oxides of nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, xylene, napthalene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
AGL submitted and had approved in 2012 an application under the disgraced and repealed Part3A NSW planning laws.
AGL are now seeking to extend the time for the proposal by 2 years under the transitional arrangements of the same repealed law.
AGL was convicted and fined for not disclosing political donations in relation to planning submissions, including the Dalton proposal.
Dalton has been assessed as a high hazard earthquake zone, with three earthquakes registering about 5.5 on the Richter scale in November 1886, November 1934 and March 1949.
Please sign our petition against AGLs Dalton Gas Fired Power Station. Help us STOP this Environmental Vandalism. Thank you for your support.
Australians Against AGL Dalton Power Project
We are committed to protecting the environment in which we live from the greed and corruption of energy company AGL.
AGL wish to destroy our communities, land, environment and future with the construction of Australia’s largest gas-fired power station in Dalton, NSW.
Our campaign to put a stop to this unnecessary corporate profiteering and environmental vandalism is of local and national concern.
It is time dirty energy companies were made accountable for their complete disregard for the environment, our communities and the destruction of our collective goal toward a renewable future.
The FACTS
The plant’s first stage will be 750 MW of gas-fired power generation, expanding to 1000 MW in Phase 2.
The Dalton plant will be the largest gas-fired plant in Australia, with the next closest being Colongra at 667 MW, Uranquinty at 641 MW and Darling Downs at 630 MW.
In comparison, Australian base-load coal-fired power plants range from 107 MW (Worsley Alumina Power Station, WA) to 2880 MW (Eraring, NSW) with the average being approximately 1300 MW .
The plant is a peaking power plant, operating when wholesale prices are high.
Peaking gas-fired power plants still produce approximately 85% of the greenhouse gas emissions of coal-fired power plants.
Other by-products of this plant include oxides of nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, xylene, napthalene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
AGL submitted and had approved in 2012 an application under the disgraced and repealed Part3A NSW planning laws.
AGL are now seeking to extend the time for the proposal by 2 years under the transitional arrangements of the same repealed law.
AGL was convicted and fined for not disclosing political donations in relation to planning submissions, including the Dalton proposal.
Dalton has been assessed as a high hazard earthquake zone, with three earthquakes registering about 5.5 on the Richter scale in November 1886, November 1934 and March 1949.
Please sign our petition against AGLs Dalton Gas Fired Power Station. Help us STOP this Environmental Vandalism.
Thank you for your support.
Australians Against AGL Dalton Power Project
Community Consultative Committee To Be Established For Dalton Power Station
Hundreds Of Submissions Received For Dalton Power Project
AGL Fined $124,000 In Land And Environment Court
NPWS Teams Up With Landcare And GreenArmy For Wetland Tree Planting
Media release: 31 May 2017: Office of Environment and HeritageNew homes for birds and fish are being created as the Iluka GreenArmy and Landcare help the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) replant tree cover in Everlasting Swamp National Park at Lawrence.
NPWS Project Officer Dean Egan said restoring tree cover will create homes for birds, provide shade and structure for fish and assist in improving water quality in the Park.
"More than 140 trees were planted in recent weeks, adding to the over 1200 trees planted in since start of 2016," said Mr Egan.
"A big thanks to the dedicated team of ten GreenArmy crew and five Iluka Landcare volunteers.
"The Sandon to Wooli Community Nursery and Iluka Landcare have worked with NPWS to source local seed, raise young trees and the Envite-led Iluka GreenArmy has been planting the trees," Mr Egan said.
Everlasting Swamp Tree Planting - NPWS with Iluka Greenarmy and Landcare March 2017
Envite GreenArmy Coordinator Mick Webb said it is great to see this improved wetland health achieved through this community partnership of both young and old.
"The incredible birdlife, fish and rare wetland vegetation needed a bit of a hand up.
"Parts of the new Park were devoid of creek-bank trees, with older trees being hit hard by dieback and lack of habitat," Mr Webb said.
Mr Egan said since the Park was established in November 2014, NPWS has looked at ways to improve the wetland.
"We teamed up the Southern Cross University in 2015 to look at this issue, now we are seeing this project growing on the ground," Mr Egan said.
"The GreenArmy project is funded by the Australian Federal Government and the wetland restoration is funded by a NSW Environmental Trust grant.
"Everlasting Swamp National Park lies near Maclean, NSW and is known as the 'Kakadu of the South' to local birdwatchers.
"We welcome visitors to check out the park, the wetland is now filled and is teeming with life after the recent flooding rains," Mr Egan said.
For information on visiting Everlasting Swamp National Park visit hereEverlasting Swamp National Park was created in November 2014. It covers an area of 1769ha. Everlasting Swamp is named for the large number of waterfowl living in the backswamp next to the Clarence River. The reserve protects species including brolga and jabiru, along with a rare coastal wetland floodplain ecosystem.
Activities: From the park entrance, paddle 3km upstream along Sportsmans Creek towards the heart of the wetland system to search for birdlife. If you visit during spring, you may be lucky enough to see a brolga mating dance. There are grassy areas to stop for a picnic under the old red gums, but there’s no drinking water so it’s a good idea to bring some with you when you visit.
Access: The 2WD dirt main entrance road continues off Weir Road, 20km northeast of Grafton, just west of the town of Lawrence. As you reach the end of the sealed road, drive past four unlocked gates and follow the creek edge to the park entrance.
Media release: 31 May 2017: Office of Environment and Heritage
New homes for birds and fish are being created as the Iluka GreenArmy and Landcare help the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) replant tree cover in Everlasting Swamp National Park at Lawrence.
NPWS Project Officer Dean Egan said restoring tree cover will create homes for birds, provide shade and structure for fish and assist in improving water quality in the Park.
"More than 140 trees were planted in recent weeks, adding to the over 1200 trees planted in since start of 2016," said Mr Egan.
"A big thanks to the dedicated team of ten GreenArmy crew and five Iluka Landcare volunteers.
"The Sandon to Wooli Community Nursery and Iluka Landcare have worked with NPWS to source local seed, raise young trees and the Envite-led Iluka GreenArmy has been planting the trees," Mr Egan said.
Everlasting Swamp Tree Planting - NPWS with Iluka Greenarmy and Landcare March 2017
Envite GreenArmy Coordinator Mick Webb said it is great to see this improved wetland health achieved through this community partnership of both young and old.
"The incredible birdlife, fish and rare wetland vegetation needed a bit of a hand up.
"Parts of the new Park were devoid of creek-bank trees, with older trees being hit hard by dieback and lack of habitat," Mr Webb said.
Mr Egan said since the Park was established in November 2014, NPWS has looked at ways to improve the wetland.
"We teamed up the Southern Cross University in 2015 to look at this issue, now we are seeing this project growing on the ground," Mr Egan said.
"The GreenArmy project is funded by the Australian Federal Government and the wetland restoration is funded by a NSW Environmental Trust grant.
"Everlasting Swamp National Park lies near Maclean, NSW and is known as the 'Kakadu of the South' to local birdwatchers.
"We welcome visitors to check out the park, the wetland is now filled and is teeming with life after the recent flooding rains," Mr Egan said.
For information on visiting Everlasting Swamp National Park visit here
Everlasting Swamp National Park was created in November 2014. It covers an area of 1769ha. Everlasting Swamp is named for the large number of waterfowl living in the backswamp next to the Clarence River. The reserve protects species including brolga and jabiru, along with a rare coastal wetland floodplain ecosystem.
Activities: From the park entrance, paddle 3km upstream along Sportsmans Creek towards the heart of the wetland system to search for birdlife. If you visit during spring, you may be lucky enough to see a brolga mating dance. There are grassy areas to stop for a picnic under the old red gums, but there’s no drinking water so it’s a good idea to bring some with you when you visit.
Access: The 2WD dirt main entrance road continues off Weir Road, 20km northeast of Grafton, just west of the town of Lawrence. As you reach the end of the sealed road, drive past four unlocked gates and follow the creek edge to the park entrance.
Juvenile Osprey Lives Another Day
Media release: 2 June 2017The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has praised the efforts of local wildlife rescue group FAWNA for successfully rehabilitating a juvenile Osprey found injured near the Hastings River.
NPWS Senior Conservation expert, Peter Stathis said the young Osprey was released back into the wild yesterday after 15 days of rehabilitation with FAWNA wildlife carers - marking a great outcome for the bird and her species.
"Osprey are a magnificent apex predator with a wingspan of up to 1.7 metres but are listed as vulnerable in NSW,” Mr Stathis said.
“The rehabilitation of this bird is a specialised task that requires considerable knowledge and patience so we are delighted with such a fantastic result,” he said.
FAWNA Carer, Meredith Ryan said the Osprey flew away on release so quickly and strongly they couldn't even get good photos.
“She just took off out towards the river and back to her home grounds,” Meredith said.
“It really is an incredibly rewarding outcome especially given it took 12 days before she would adequately self-feed, we were not completely confident of a full recovery at first.
“The recovery process was relatively short once the bird began feeding,” she said.
Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital assessed the bird initially and could not determine what caused the bird’s injuries given no fractures were detected on X-ray.
FAWNA carers, with the Lendlease Environment Co-ordinator Clive Wightwick who originally found the bird, released the Osprey on Wednesday afternoon near the Hastings River and only a short flight to her encounter location.
NPWS’s Mr Stathis said the work of the FAWNA volunteers is essential to achieving positive outcomes for a wide range of native animals.
“They do a fabulous and difficult job, which is not well understood and are often at the front line when it comes to animal rescue,” Mr Stathis said.
“Amazingly, they are also all volunteers who have to deal with some pretty difficult and confronting situations to return injured wildlife back to nature and when they can’t, their role in ensuring humane outcomes for suffering wildlife is vital.
“This Osprey release is just one of their many great outcomes for our treasured wildlife,” Mr Stathis said.
For more information visit the Eastern Osprey profile page.
If you find sick or injured wildlife in the Mid North Coast region, please call the FAWNA Rescue Line 6581 4141 or your local NPWS office.
Photos courtesy OE&H
Media release: 2 June 2017The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has praised the efforts of local wildlife rescue group FAWNA for successfully rehabilitating a juvenile Osprey found injured near the Hastings River.
NPWS Senior Conservation expert, Peter Stathis said the young Osprey was released back into the wild yesterday after 15 days of rehabilitation with FAWNA wildlife carers - marking a great outcome for the bird and her species.
"Osprey are a magnificent apex predator with a wingspan of up to 1.7 metres but are listed as vulnerable in NSW,” Mr Stathis said.
“The rehabilitation of this bird is a specialised task that requires considerable knowledge and patience so we are delighted with such a fantastic result,” he said.
FAWNA Carer, Meredith Ryan said the Osprey flew away on release so quickly and strongly they couldn't even get good photos.
“She just took off out towards the river and back to her home grounds,” Meredith said.
“It really is an incredibly rewarding outcome especially given it took 12 days before she would adequately self-feed, we were not completely confident of a full recovery at first.
“The recovery process was relatively short once the bird began feeding,” she said.
Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital assessed the bird initially and could not determine what caused the bird’s injuries given no fractures were detected on X-ray.
FAWNA carers, with the Lendlease Environment Co-ordinator Clive Wightwick who originally found the bird, released the Osprey on Wednesday afternoon near the Hastings River and only a short flight to her encounter location.
NPWS’s Mr Stathis said the work of the FAWNA volunteers is essential to achieving positive outcomes for a wide range of native animals.
“They do a fabulous and difficult job, which is not well understood and are often at the front line when it comes to animal rescue,” Mr Stathis said.
“Amazingly, they are also all volunteers who have to deal with some pretty difficult and confronting situations to return injured wildlife back to nature and when they can’t, their role in ensuring humane outcomes for suffering wildlife is vital.
“This Osprey release is just one of their many great outcomes for our treasured wildlife,” Mr Stathis said.
For more information visit the Eastern Osprey profile page.
If you find sick or injured wildlife in the Mid North Coast region, please call the FAWNA Rescue Line 6581 4141 or your local NPWS office.
Photos courtesy OE&H
Fixing Weeds At Jones Beach
Media release: 1 June 2017Threatened species including beach stone curlew, southern swamp orchid and themeda grassland are all benefitting from a conservation project south of the Wooli River in Yuraygir National Park.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) area manager, Andrew Lugg, said for the past 12 months staff and contractors have been working hard to protect Jones Beach on this beautiful section of coastline.
"The project site is a remote five kilometre section between Wooli and Pebbly Beach containing threatened species such as nickerbean, sand spurge, and the threatened ecological communities themeda grassland and swamp sclerophyll forest," Mr Lugg said.
"The project had its challenges with the June 2016 east coast low and major storm in July impacting on the site and extreme hot weather over summer followed by ex-Cyclone Debbie a few months ago all delaying planned work.
"Nevertheless, contractors Bushland Restoration Services have completed primary work and a follow up over all the 10 hectares site reducing weeds to insignificant levels.
"Last year local staff were successful in obtaining funding from the NPWS Find it and Fix it program to undertake bush regeneration and weed work.
"The Find it and Fix it program is aimed at undertaking conservation projects where significant results can be gained within the 12 month timeframe of the project.
"With weeds now reduced to low levels it will be much easier to conduct essential follow up work and continue the NSW Government's work in protecting our precious natural heritage," Mr Lugg said.
Nickerbean, a threatened species has benefited from this project - photo by NPWS Pest Officer Jeff Thomas.
Media release: 1 June 2017
Threatened species including beach stone curlew, southern swamp orchid and themeda grassland are all benefitting from a conservation project south of the Wooli River in Yuraygir National Park.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) area manager, Andrew Lugg, said for the past 12 months staff and contractors have been working hard to protect Jones Beach on this beautiful section of coastline.
"The project site is a remote five kilometre section between Wooli and Pebbly Beach containing threatened species such as nickerbean, sand spurge, and the threatened ecological communities themeda grassland and swamp sclerophyll forest," Mr Lugg said.
"The project had its challenges with the June 2016 east coast low and major storm in July impacting on the site and extreme hot weather over summer followed by ex-Cyclone Debbie a few months ago all delaying planned work.
"Nevertheless, contractors Bushland Restoration Services have completed primary work and a follow up over all the 10 hectares site reducing weeds to insignificant levels.
"Last year local staff were successful in obtaining funding from the NPWS Find it and Fix it program to undertake bush regeneration and weed work.
"The Find it and Fix it program is aimed at undertaking conservation projects where significant results can be gained within the 12 month timeframe of the project.
"With weeds now reduced to low levels it will be much easier to conduct essential follow up work and continue the NSW Government's work in protecting our precious natural heritage," Mr Lugg said.
Nickerbean, a threatened species has benefited from this project - photo by NPWS Pest Officer Jeff Thomas.
CSG Methane Pollution “Significant” At QLD Workover Site: CSIRO Report Reveals
Clean Energy Finance Corporation To Be Allowed To Invest In Carbon Capture And Storage Technologies
Statement From The CEFC Regarding Proposed Changes To The Clean Energy Finance Corporation Act
Roadmap To Low Emissions Future
2 June 2017CSIRO today released its Low Emissions Technology Roadmap outlining the technology options to meet emission reduction goals and steer Australia towards a secure energy future.
The roadmap analyses how changes in the electricity, industrial energy and transport sectors could help Australia meet or exceed its emissions reduction target for 2030 and contribute to further decarbonisation to 2050.
The roadmap also explores the potential economic opportunities that exist for Australian industry through deployment of relevant technologies or by participating in growing low emission fuel and technology supply chains.
It takes a 'technology neutral' approach and presents four options or 'pathways' to decarbonisation of the energy sector, which currently accounts for 79 per cent of Australia's emissions.
Based on nine months' research, modelling and consultation, the report found that:- Australia is endowed with energy-rich resources and is well positioned to benefit from innovation in low emission technologies.
- Energy productivity will remain important in reducing energy costs and emission levels throughout the transition.
- Modelling conducted as part of the report suggests that new energy generation is likely to be mainly in wind, solar PV, storage and gas to meet our 2030 emissions reduction targets.
- While the technology pathways are comparable in terms of cost, they carry different levels of commercial, technical, social and stakeholder risks.
"In the midst of disruptive change within the energy sector, we must address the 'energy trilemma' of security, affordability and sustainability," CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall said.
"We can't navigate the bumpy road of change without this Roadmap, using science to re-invent roadblocks into freeways.
"We think of coal as the past, but what if we could reinvent it into the feedstock for hydrogen?
"We think of lithium-ion batteries as the storage solution, but what if we could use chemical storage like ammonia which also offers safe transport and distribution using existing liquid infrastructure?
"CSIRO's Strategy 2020 is dedicated to using science to navigate Australia's industries, both traditional and emerging, into a brighter economic future enlightened by innovation."
CSIRO Energy Chief Economist Paul Graham noted that improvements in technology are often hard to predict, but Australia's diverse energy resources mean we can exploit new opportunities as they arise.
"History shows we are poor predictors of technological innovation – for example, at the start of this century no one thought solar photovoltaics would be a cost effective source of low emission electricity – but if we keep our options open, we have the opportunity to position Australia to achieve its emission targets and contribute to new global low emission energy supply chains," Mr Graham said.
The Low Emissions Technology Roadmap was prepared for the Australian Department of the Environment and Energy to provide input to the Government's 2017 Climate Policy Review.
View the report at www.csiro.au/letrThe Low Emissions Technology Roadmap provides an independent, science-based analysis of the technology options in the energy sector that can help Australia meet its 2030 emissions reduction target and create new opportunities for local industry.
In April 2016, CSIRO was engaged by the Australian Government to develop the Low Emissions Technology Roadmap to inform the 2017 Climate Policy review. The objectives of the report were to understand the technology options Australia has at its disposal to meet its emissions abatement commitments under the 2015 Paris Agreement as well as provide new economic opportunities for Australian industry.
Options for a rapidly changing energy sectorThe global energy sector is in the midst of a significant transition, driven by new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The report establishes a framework for understanding the range of technologies available, current barriers and enablers to deployment. The technologies are grouped according to a series of options or ‘pathways’ that the Australian Government could invest in. Each have different risk profiles and associated opportunities.
Extensive opportunities waiting to be realisedWhile the transition to a low emissions economy is often framed in terms of cost, this transition will also create demand for new products and services both in Australia and in export markets. Australia is endowed with some of the world’s best energy resources, has good skills in low emissions technologies, strong institutions and established trading relationships with key consumers of energy. This report outlines where such advantages exist within the energy sector and demonstrates where Australia can benefit from a domestic and global transition to low emissions energy.
Executive summary [pdf · 1mb]Main report [pdf · 7mb]Technical report [pdf · 5mb]
2 June 2017
CSIRO today released its Low Emissions Technology Roadmap outlining the technology options to meet emission reduction goals and steer Australia towards a secure energy future.
The roadmap analyses how changes in the electricity, industrial energy and transport sectors could help Australia meet or exceed its emissions reduction target for 2030 and contribute to further decarbonisation to 2050.
The roadmap also explores the potential economic opportunities that exist for Australian industry through deployment of relevant technologies or by participating in growing low emission fuel and technology supply chains.
It takes a 'technology neutral' approach and presents four options or 'pathways' to decarbonisation of the energy sector, which currently accounts for 79 per cent of Australia's emissions.
Based on nine months' research, modelling and consultation, the report found that:
- Australia is endowed with energy-rich resources and is well positioned to benefit from innovation in low emission technologies.
- Energy productivity will remain important in reducing energy costs and emission levels throughout the transition.
- Modelling conducted as part of the report suggests that new energy generation is likely to be mainly in wind, solar PV, storage and gas to meet our 2030 emissions reduction targets.
- While the technology pathways are comparable in terms of cost, they carry different levels of commercial, technical, social and stakeholder risks.
"In the midst of disruptive change within the energy sector, we must address the 'energy trilemma' of security, affordability and sustainability," CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall said."We can't navigate the bumpy road of change without this Roadmap, using science to re-invent roadblocks into freeways.
"We think of coal as the past, but what if we could reinvent it into the feedstock for hydrogen?
"We think of lithium-ion batteries as the storage solution, but what if we could use chemical storage like ammonia which also offers safe transport and distribution using existing liquid infrastructure?
"CSIRO's Strategy 2020 is dedicated to using science to navigate Australia's industries, both traditional and emerging, into a brighter economic future enlightened by innovation."
CSIRO Energy Chief Economist Paul Graham noted that improvements in technology are often hard to predict, but Australia's diverse energy resources mean we can exploit new opportunities as they arise.
"History shows we are poor predictors of technological innovation – for example, at the start of this century no one thought solar photovoltaics would be a cost effective source of low emission electricity – but if we keep our options open, we have the opportunity to position Australia to achieve its emission targets and contribute to new global low emission energy supply chains," Mr Graham said.
The Low Emissions Technology Roadmap was prepared for the Australian Department of the Environment and Energy to provide input to the Government's 2017 Climate Policy Review.
View the report at www.csiro.au/letr
The Low Emissions Technology Roadmap provides an independent, science-based analysis of the technology options in the energy sector that can help Australia meet its 2030 emissions reduction target and create new opportunities for local industry.
In April 2016, CSIRO was engaged by the Australian Government to develop the Low Emissions Technology Roadmap to inform the 2017 Climate Policy review. The objectives of the report were to understand the technology options Australia has at its disposal to meet its emissions abatement commitments under the 2015 Paris Agreement as well as provide new economic opportunities for Australian industry.
Options for a rapidly changing energy sector
The global energy sector is in the midst of a significant transition, driven by new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The report establishes a framework for understanding the range of technologies available, current barriers and enablers to deployment. The technologies are grouped according to a series of options or ‘pathways’ that the Australian Government could invest in. Each have different risk profiles and associated opportunities.
Extensive opportunities waiting to be realised
While the transition to a low emissions economy is often framed in terms of cost, this transition will also create demand for new products and services both in Australia and in export markets. Australia is endowed with some of the world’s best energy resources, has good skills in low emissions technologies, strong institutions and established trading relationships with key consumers of energy. This report outlines where such advantages exist within the energy sector and demonstrates where Australia can benefit from a domestic and global transition to low emissions energy.
Executive summary [pdf · 1mb]
Main report [pdf · 7mb]
Technical report [pdf · 5mb]
Complete Record Of Greenhouse Gases
Data from the Cape Grim Air Pollution Baseline Station has been used to create the most comprehensive collection of greenhouse gas data.
Data from the Cape Grim Air Pollution Baseline Station has been used to create the most comprehensive collection of greenhouse gas data.
Complete Record Of Greenhouse Gases
New Report Identifies 50 Measures To Help Property Sector Move Towards Net Zero Carbon Buildings
PNG Expedition Discovers Largest Trees At Extreme Altitudes
31 May 2017: University of Queensland
The first field campaign surveying Papua New Guinea’s lush primary forests from the coast to clouds has revealed the high mountain tops may house the largest trees recorded globally at such extreme altitudes.
The study - which involved The University of Queensland’s Dr John Dwyer and James Cook University’s Professor Michael Bird - was led by Dr Michelle Venter, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Northern British Columbia, Canada.
The research team recorded more than 15 tree families with individual specimens growing 30-40m tall at extreme altitudes.Credit: Image courtesy of University of Queensland
“The study may force a re-think of what we know about the ideal environments for growing very large trees,” said Dr Dwyer, a UQ School of Biological Sciences’ lecturer and CSIRO researcher.
Dr Venter led seven field expeditions in areas far from roads and villages, with the help of more than 70 field assistants from five forest-dependent communities, working on slopes of up to 88 degrees.
They studied 195 forest plots in the rugged and remote Morobe province along an elevation gradient spanning from the coastal lowland forests (50m) to upper montane tropical forests (3100m).
Unexpectedly, the researchers found that the forest biomass had a major peak at altitudes of 2400-3100m, altitudes where forests struggle to reach more than 15m tall in other parts of the world.
“Tropical montane forests are typically squat and gnarly,” Dr Venter said.
“Current thinking is that tall mountains make small trees.
“However, we recorded more than 15 tree families with individuals growing 30-40m tall at extreme altitudes, which brings this assumption into question.”
The tallest trees included a 41m high Nothofagus starkenborghii, one of the southern beeches whose ancestors dominated Gondwanan forests for millions of years.
Dr Dwyer said the researchers became excited when they realised the unique climate conditions found on mountain tops of PNG were remarkably similar to those of temperate maritime areas known to grow the largest trees in the world
“Think of the foggy mid-west coast of the USA, which boasts the epically large coast redwoods,” Dr Venter said.
The world’s tallest known tree is a 115.8m (380ft) coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) found in California, and the second-tallest reliably measured specimen, is a 99.82m (327.5ft) mountain ash (Eucalptytus regnans) from the Arve Valley in Tasmania.
Several Australian gums from Tasmania and Victoria are also in the top 20 monument trees list.
Coast redwoods occur in elevations up to about 920m, while the Australian mountain ash occurs in cool mountainous areas to 1000 metres altitude, considerably less than the PNG altitudes.
James Cook University’s Professor Bird said: “Believe it or not, why and how trees grow large is still a topic for investigation and reasons for the persistence of large old trees are still not clearly known.”
“Large trees are susceptible to many interacting threats, from disease to climate change, and because of their size and age, they don’t adapt well to rapidly changing, human-modified environments.”
Michelle Venter, John Dwyer, Wouter Dieleman, Anurag Ramachandra, David Gillieson, Susan Laurance, Lucas A. Cernusak, Bruce Beehler, Rigel Jensen, Michael I. Bird. Optimal climate for large trees at high elevations drives patterns of biomass in remote forests of Papua New Guinea.Global Change Biology, 2017; DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13741
31 May 2017: University of Queensland
The first field campaign surveying Papua New Guinea’s lush primary forests from the coast to clouds has revealed the high mountain tops may house the largest trees recorded globally at such extreme altitudes.
The study - which involved The University of Queensland’s Dr John Dwyer and James Cook University’s Professor Michael Bird - was led by Dr Michelle Venter, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Northern British Columbia, Canada.
The research team recorded more than 15 tree families with individual specimens growing 30-40m tall at extreme altitudes.
Credit: Image courtesy of University of Queensland
“The study may force a re-think of what we know about the ideal environments for growing very large trees,” said Dr Dwyer, a UQ School of Biological Sciences’ lecturer and CSIRO researcher.
Dr Venter led seven field expeditions in areas far from roads and villages, with the help of more than 70 field assistants from five forest-dependent communities, working on slopes of up to 88 degrees.
They studied 195 forest plots in the rugged and remote Morobe province along an elevation gradient spanning from the coastal lowland forests (50m) to upper montane tropical forests (3100m).
Unexpectedly, the researchers found that the forest biomass had a major peak at altitudes of 2400-3100m, altitudes where forests struggle to reach more than 15m tall in other parts of the world.
“Tropical montane forests are typically squat and gnarly,” Dr Venter said.
“Current thinking is that tall mountains make small trees.
“However, we recorded more than 15 tree families with individuals growing 30-40m tall at extreme altitudes, which brings this assumption into question.”
The tallest trees included a 41m high Nothofagus starkenborghii, one of the southern beeches whose ancestors dominated Gondwanan forests for millions of years.
Dr Dwyer said the researchers became excited when they realised the unique climate conditions found on mountain tops of PNG were remarkably similar to those of temperate maritime areas known to grow the largest trees in the world
“Think of the foggy mid-west coast of the USA, which boasts the epically large coast redwoods,” Dr Venter said.
The world’s tallest known tree is a 115.8m (380ft) coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) found in California, and the second-tallest reliably measured specimen, is a 99.82m (327.5ft) mountain ash (Eucalptytus regnans) from the Arve Valley in Tasmania.
Several Australian gums from Tasmania and Victoria are also in the top 20 monument trees list.
Coast redwoods occur in elevations up to about 920m, while the Australian mountain ash occurs in cool mountainous areas to 1000 metres altitude, considerably less than the PNG altitudes.
James Cook University’s Professor Bird said: “Believe it or not, why and how trees grow large is still a topic for investigation and reasons for the persistence of large old trees are still not clearly known.”
“Large trees are susceptible to many interacting threats, from disease to climate change, and because of their size and age, they don’t adapt well to rapidly changing, human-modified environments.”
Michelle Venter, John Dwyer, Wouter Dieleman, Anurag Ramachandra, David Gillieson, Susan Laurance, Lucas A. Cernusak, Bruce Beehler, Rigel Jensen, Michael I. Bird. Optimal climate for large trees at high elevations drives patterns of biomass in remote forests of Papua New Guinea.Global Change Biology, 2017; DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13741
Avalon Boomerang Bags: An Idea That's Spreading To Stop Plastic Bag Use
Avalon Boomerang Bags
Tuesdays
11am-5pm @ sewcraft cook Unit 20/14 Polo Ave Mona Vale
Boomerang Bags is a bag-share initiative involving the installation of a number of ‘Boomerang Bag’ boxes throughout any given business district, shopping centre, street or market. Each box is stocked with re-useable bags for customers to borrow if they have forgotten to bring their own.
Unlike the traditional purchase-and-keep approach, Boomerang Bags are free, and local community members are responsible for returning the bags once they’re no longer required. The availability of free re-useable bags reduces the reliance of local businesses to supply bags to all customers, and encourages a mentality of re-use among local communities, thereby reducing the amount of plastic bag material entering our landfills and waterways.
So who makes the Boomerang Bags? Well, you do! Boomerang Bags are made by local communities for local communities, and are sewn from recycled and donated materials.
Get in touch if you'd like to donate materials, join us making bags, or implement Boomerang Bags in your own local area!
Tuesdays
11am-5pm @ sewcraft cook
Unit 20/14 Polo Ave Mona Vale
Boomerang Bags is a bag-share initiative involving the installation of a number of ‘Boomerang Bag’ boxes throughout any given business district, shopping centre, street or market. Each box is stocked with re-useable bags for customers to borrow if they have forgotten to bring their own.
Unlike the traditional purchase-and-keep approach, Boomerang Bags are free, and local community members are responsible for returning the bags once they’re no longer required. The availability of free re-useable bags reduces the reliance of local businesses to supply bags to all customers, and encourages a mentality of re-use among local communities, thereby reducing the amount of plastic bag material entering our landfills and waterways.
So who makes the Boomerang Bags? Well, you do! Boomerang Bags are made by local communities for local communities, and are sewn from recycled and donated materials.
Get in touch if you'd like to donate materials, join us making bags, or implement Boomerang Bags in your own local area!
Energy Supplement Cuts Misguided, Say Seniors
Find Out About Your Aged Care Options Before You Need Them
Eco-Label In Exchange For Less Chemicals On Rice Fields
Have Your Say On NSW Government's Biodiversity Reforms
Annual Winter Trail Closures In Barrington Tops
Have Your Say On First Cottan-Bimbang National Park Draft Plan Of Management
24 May 2017: Media release - NPWSThe National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is calling for comment on the draft Plan of Management for Cottan-Bimbang National Park and State Conservation Area (SCA), and The Cells SCA.
NPWS Director Russell Madeley said the draft plan is on exhibition until 14 August and outlines the parks' values and proposed management.
"Plans of Management are legal documents that enable us to have a clear understanding of the values of the reserves and how we will manage them into the future," said Mr Madeley.
"The draft Plan of Management reflects the park as it is today and was put together with input from a variety of stakeholders including Aboriginal representatives, Forestry Corporation of NSW, and Lower North Coast and Northern Tablelands regional advisory committees.
"These parks are located between Wauchope and Walcha in the hinterland of the NSW north coast and form part of one of the largest connecting areas of old-growth forest in northern NSW.
"The parks contain varied and rugged wilderness landscape of high conservation values, protect a wealth of Aboriginal cultural heritage and are home to a section of the original convict-built road linking Port Macquarie and Walcha.
"Other important natural values include Mount Seaview Wilderness Area, 29 threatened animal species and five threatened plant species.
"A feature of the new plan is to improve a number of existing recreational opportunities including four-wheel driving, trail bike riding and horse riding.
"We have worked closely with Port Macquarie and District 4WD Club to identify the most popular four-wheel drive routes, while keeping them outside the declared wilderness areas.
The draft Plan of Management for Cottan-Bimbang National Park and SCA and The Cells SCA can be viewed at:- Gingers Creek Café on the Oxley Highway between Walcha and Wauchope
- NPWS Office, 22 Blackbutt Road Port Macquarie, 2444, NSW
- NPWS Office, 78 Hargreaves Drive, Taree, 2430, NSW
- NPWS Office, 188W North Street Walcha, 2354, NSW
- OEH Customer Centre (Level 14, 59-61 Goulburn Street, Sydney)
- OEH 'Have your say' website athttps://engage.environment.nsw.gov.au- Cottan-Bimbang National Park group draft plan of management
Submissions on the plan must be received by 14 August 2017.
24 May 2017: Media release - NPWS
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is calling for comment on the draft Plan of Management for Cottan-Bimbang National Park and State Conservation Area (SCA), and The Cells SCA.
NPWS Director Russell Madeley said the draft plan is on exhibition until 14 August and outlines the parks' values and proposed management.
"Plans of Management are legal documents that enable us to have a clear understanding of the values of the reserves and how we will manage them into the future," said Mr Madeley.
"The draft Plan of Management reflects the park as it is today and was put together with input from a variety of stakeholders including Aboriginal representatives, Forestry Corporation of NSW, and Lower North Coast and Northern Tablelands regional advisory committees.
"These parks are located between Wauchope and Walcha in the hinterland of the NSW north coast and form part of one of the largest connecting areas of old-growth forest in northern NSW.
"The parks contain varied and rugged wilderness landscape of high conservation values, protect a wealth of Aboriginal cultural heritage and are home to a section of the original convict-built road linking Port Macquarie and Walcha.
"Other important natural values include Mount Seaview Wilderness Area, 29 threatened animal species and five threatened plant species.
"A feature of the new plan is to improve a number of existing recreational opportunities including four-wheel driving, trail bike riding and horse riding.
"We have worked closely with Port Macquarie and District 4WD Club to identify the most popular four-wheel drive routes, while keeping them outside the declared wilderness areas.
The draft Plan of Management for Cottan-Bimbang National Park and SCA and The Cells SCA can be viewed at:
- Gingers Creek Café on the Oxley Highway between Walcha and Wauchope
- NPWS Office, 22 Blackbutt Road Port Macquarie, 2444, NSW
- NPWS Office, 78 Hargreaves Drive, Taree, 2430, NSW
- NPWS Office, 188W North Street Walcha, 2354, NSW
- OEH Customer Centre (Level 14, 59-61 Goulburn Street, Sydney)
- OEH 'Have your say' website athttps://engage.environment.nsw.gov.au- Cottan-Bimbang National Park group draft plan of management
Submissions on the plan must be received by 14 August 2017.
Review Of Complying Development In Greenfield Areas
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.
Barangaroo Public Consultation
2017 Eco Schools Grants Program Open For Applications
Media release: 26 April 2017Educators and school communities are once again encouraged to apply for an Eco Schools Grant to ignite and nurture their students’ passion to learn about the environment.
Eighty grants of $3,500 each are now available under the NSW Environmental Trust Eco Schools Grants program, which has supported a variety of environmental projects in schools from waste management to worm farms for nearly 20 years.
Office of Environment and Heritage Executive Director Ian Hunter said the grants help provide curriculum-based environmental education for children and the program proudly funded its 1000th project last year.
“Eco Schools Grants recognise the important work of educators in environmental conservation projects and I encourage schools to apply for one of the eighty grants,” Mr Hunter said.
“Research shows that when young people develop an appreciation of the environment early on it influences their behaviours later in life.
“Schools are uniquely placed to teach students about sustainability, why it’s important to take care of our environment and what good environmental citizenship looks like,” Mr Hunter said.
Teachers from Bonnyrigg High School in Sydney’s west used their Eco Schools Grant to bring history and science to life through environmental education with a medieval food garden.
“Students learned about garden functionality, soil health and sustainable living. Science students also used the plants to study photosynthesis and helped their school create a resource to facilitate hands-on learning for years to come,” Mr Hunter said.
“Grants this year will be offered to student-focused environmental management projects, including water and energy conservation, recycling, bush regeneration, habitat improvement and food gardens.
“Schools are also encouraged to develop projects for students with special needs,” Mr Hunter said. Interested schools in NSW are encouraged to register on theSustainable Schools NSW website and grant applications can be submitted until Monday 19 June, 2017.
All registered schools in NSW can apply for funding for new projects or a separate additional stage of a previous project. Schools currently delivering an existing Eco Schools Grant funded project are not eligible.
For more information visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants/schools.htm
Photo - Bonnyrigg Highschool Eco Schools Grants GardenEducators and school communities are once again encouraged to apply for an Eco Schools Grant to ignite and nurture their students’ passion to learn about the environment. Photo Courtesy OEH
Media release: 26 April 2017
Educators and school communities are once again encouraged to apply for an Eco Schools Grant to ignite and nurture their students’ passion to learn about the environment.
Eighty grants of $3,500 each are now available under the NSW Environmental Trust Eco Schools Grants program, which has supported a variety of environmental projects in schools from waste management to worm farms for nearly 20 years.
Office of Environment and Heritage Executive Director Ian Hunter said the grants help provide curriculum-based environmental education for children and the program proudly funded its 1000th project last year.
“Eco Schools Grants recognise the important work of educators in environmental conservation projects and I encourage schools to apply for one of the eighty grants,” Mr Hunter said.
“Research shows that when young people develop an appreciation of the environment early on it influences their behaviours later in life.
“Schools are uniquely placed to teach students about sustainability, why it’s important to take care of our environment and what good environmental citizenship looks like,” Mr Hunter said.
Teachers from Bonnyrigg High School in Sydney’s west used their Eco Schools Grant to bring history and science to life through environmental education with a medieval food garden.
“Students learned about garden functionality, soil health and sustainable living. Science students also used the plants to study photosynthesis and helped their school create a resource to facilitate hands-on learning for years to come,” Mr Hunter said.
“Grants this year will be offered to student-focused environmental management projects, including water and energy conservation, recycling, bush regeneration, habitat improvement and food gardens.
“Schools are also encouraged to develop projects for students with special needs,” Mr Hunter said.
Interested schools in NSW are encouraged to register on theSustainable Schools NSW website and grant applications can be submitted until Monday 19 June, 2017.
All registered schools in NSW can apply for funding for new projects or a separate additional stage of a previous project. Schools currently delivering an existing Eco Schools Grant funded project are not eligible.
For more information visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants/schools.htm
Photo - Bonnyrigg Highschool Eco Schools Grants Garden
Educators and school communities are once again encouraged to apply for an Eco Schools Grant to ignite and nurture their students’ passion to learn about the environment. Photo Courtesy OEH
Sydneysiders Urged To Listen Out For 'Powerful Owls'
April 7th, 2017Beth Mott, Birdlife Australia is asking Sydney residents to report the presence of Powerful owls in their area.
Please report any sightings to beth.mott@birdlife.org.au
If you are interested in becoming a Powerful Owl Project volunteer or would like to submit a sighting of a Powerful Owl, please contactpowerfulowl@birdlife.org.au.
You can help us learn more about the Powerful Owls by letting us know if you see or hear one in your area (particularly around Sydney, Blue Mountains, Newcastle, Central Coast, Illawarra). Send an email (to the email addresses above) with your location (street address or GPS location), an attached photo or call recording (if you have it), details of when you saw or heard the bird, and anything interesting you noticed about where it was or what it was doing (e.g. holding prey, perched on a tree branch).
Caution: rarely, some birds can get very aggressive while nesting and it can be very dangerous for people to be too close to the nest tree at night. If you come across a Powerful Owl nest hollow, use caution and please do not approach it (especially at night). Do not use flash photography at the nest as this may disturb the birds and cause them to abandon the nest.
Powerful owl Ninox strenua- picture by Paul Wheeler, 2014 - at Clareville.
April 7th, 2017
Beth Mott, Birdlife Australia is asking Sydney residents to report the presence of Powerful owls in their area.
Please report any sightings to beth.mott@birdlife.org.au
If you are interested in becoming a Powerful Owl Project volunteer or would like to submit a sighting of a Powerful Owl, please contactpowerfulowl@birdlife.org.au.
You can help us learn more about the Powerful Owls by letting us know if you see or hear one in your area (particularly around Sydney, Blue Mountains, Newcastle, Central Coast, Illawarra). Send an email (to the email addresses above) with your location (street address or GPS location), an attached photo or call recording (if you have it), details of when you saw or heard the bird, and anything interesting you noticed about where it was or what it was doing (e.g. holding prey, perched on a tree branch).
Caution: rarely, some birds can get very aggressive while nesting and it can be very dangerous for people to be too close to the nest tree at night. If you come across a Powerful Owl nest hollow, use caution and please do not approach it (especially at night). Do not use flash photography at the nest as this may disturb the birds and cause them to abandon the nest.
Powerful owl Ninox strenua- picture by Paul Wheeler, 2014 - at Clareville.
Department Seeks Community Input On Hume Coal Project Proposal
Applications Open For Threatened Species Recovery Fund
Energy Locals For 100% Carbon Neutral Plans
From Surf Life Saving NSW Interested in 100% carbon neutral plans, huge solar feed in tariffs and Australian owned and operated in your energy provider? Look no further than SLSNSW's newest partner Energy Locals to see how they will revolutionise your energy plan: energylocals.com.au/providers/slsnsw
From Surf Life Saving NSW
Interested in 100% carbon neutral plans, huge solar feed in tariffs and Australian owned and operated in your energy provider? Look no further than SLSNSW's newest partner Energy Locals to see how they will revolutionise your energy plan: energylocals.com.au/providers/slsnsw
If Victoria Can Ban CSG, NSW Can Too!
By The Wilderness SocietyCoal seam gas (CSG) threatens our water, our health and our climate. Many jurisdictions around the world are permanently banning this dangerous industry, most recently Victoria. We do not need or want risky coal seam gas in NSW. It’s clear that the industry has no social licence in our state, yet vast and critical areas—as well as human health—are still under threat from CSG across the state.
Call on the new Premier Berejiklian and the new Planning Minister Roberts to follow Victoria's lead and ban this harmful and risky industry in NSW.
By The Wilderness Society
Coal seam gas (CSG) threatens our water, our health and our climate. Many jurisdictions around the world are permanently banning this dangerous industry, most recently Victoria. We do not need or want risky coal seam gas in NSW.
It’s clear that the industry has no social licence in our state, yet vast and critical areas—as well as human health—are still under threat from CSG across the state.
Call on the new Premier Berejiklian and the new Planning Minister Roberts to follow Victoria's lead and ban this harmful and risky industry in NSW.
Myna Action Group
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA)
Indian Mynas - what a pest - like flying rats. Contact us on pnhainfo@gmail.com for more information and have a look athttps://www.facebook.com/MynaProblems/
Indian Mynas are displacing our native birds. They often nest in and around shops where their food source is. I took this one down this morning in Avalon (no chicks or eggs but I disturbed the female). There were literally hundreds of tiny bits of plastic in the nest which makes you think that all this plastic would be swilling down the stormwater drains into the sea.
Wildlife Carers and Organisations in Pittwater:
Sydney Wildlife rescues, rehabilitates and releases sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. From penguins, to possums and parrots, native wildlife of all descriptions passes through the caring hands of Sydney Wildlife rescuers and carers on a daily basis. We provide a genuine 24 hour, 7 day per week emergency advice, rescue and care service.
As well as caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, Sydney Wildlife is also involved in educating the community about native wildlife and its habitat. We provide educational talks to a wide range of groups and audiences including kindergartens, scouts, guides, a wide range of special interest groups and retirement villages. Talks are tailored to meet the needs and requirements of each group.
Found an injured native animal? We're here to help.
Keep the animal contained, warm, quiet and undisturbed. Do not offer any food or water. Call Sydney Wildlife immediately on 9413 4300, or take the animal to your nearest vet. Generally there is no charge. Find out more at: www.sydneywildlife.org.au
Southern Cross Wildlife Care was launched over 6 years ago. It is the brainchild of Dr Howard Ralph, the founder and chief veterinarian. SCWC was established solely for the purpose of treating injured, sick and orphaned wildlife. No wild creature in need that passes through our doors is ever rejected.
People can assist SCWC by volunteering their skills ie: veterinary; medical; experienced wildlife carers; fundraising; "IT" skills; media; admin; website etc. We are always having to address the issue of finances as we are a non commercial veterinary service for wildlife in need, who obviously don't have cheque books in their pouches. It is a constant concern and struggle of ours when we are pre-occupied with the care and treatment of the escalating amount of wildlife that we have to deal with. Just becoming a member of SCWC for $45 a year would be a great help. Regular monthly donations however small, would be a wonderful gift and we could plan ahead knowing that we had x amount of funds that we could count on. Our small team of volunteers are all unpaid even our amazing vet Howard, so all funds raised go directly towards our precious wildlife. SCWC is TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
Find out more at: southerncrosswildlifecare.org.au/wp/
What Does PNHA do?
On-ground bush regeneration. eg: Asparagus Fern Out Days
Activities: guided walks, bird-watching
Quaterly informative newsletter, online or paper
Members email group for leaset environmental news and events
AGM with Guest Speaker
Free advice for members on managing gardens for Native Vegetation and fauna habitat
Lobbies Pittwater Council and State Government on inappropriate management practices and development
Provides support to Council for PNHA-approved grant applications for environmental projects
Publications: Introductory Field Guide to Birds of Warriewood Wetlands & Irrawong Reserve, $20.00rrp, attractive cards with photos of Pittwater scenes, flora and fauna $2.00
Email: pnhainfo@gmail.com Or click on Logo to visit website.
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA)
Indian Mynas - what a pest - like flying rats.
Contact us on pnhainfo@gmail.com for more information and have a look athttps://www.facebook.com/MynaProblems/
Indian Mynas are displacing our native birds. They often nest in and around shops where their food source is. I took this one down this morning in Avalon (no chicks or eggs but I disturbed the female). There were literally hundreds of tiny bits of plastic in the nest which makes you think that all this plastic would be swilling down the stormwater drains into the sea.
Wildlife Carers and Organisations in Pittwater:
Sydney Wildlife rescues, rehabilitates and releases sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. From penguins, to possums and parrots, native wildlife of all descriptions passes through the caring hands of Sydney Wildlife rescuers and carers on a daily basis. We provide a genuine 24 hour, 7 day per week emergency advice, rescue and care service.
As well as caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, Sydney Wildlife is also involved in educating the community about native wildlife and its habitat. We provide educational talks to a wide range of groups and audiences including kindergartens, scouts, guides, a wide range of special interest groups and retirement villages. Talks are tailored to meet the needs and requirements of each group.
Found an injured native animal? We're here to help.
Keep the animal contained, warm, quiet and undisturbed. Do not offer any food or water. Call Sydney Wildlife immediately on 9413 4300, or take the animal to your nearest vet. Generally there is no charge. Find out more at: www.sydneywildlife.org.au
Southern Cross Wildlife Care was launched over 6 years ago. It is the brainchild of Dr Howard Ralph, the founder and chief veterinarian. SCWC was established solely for the purpose of treating injured, sick and orphaned wildlife. No wild creature in need that passes through our doors is ever rejected.
People can assist SCWC by volunteering their skills ie: veterinary; medical; experienced wildlife carers; fundraising; "IT" skills; media; admin; website etc. We are always having to address the issue of finances as we are a non commercial veterinary service for wildlife in need, who obviously don't have cheque books in their pouches. It is a constant concern and struggle of ours when we are pre-occupied with the care and treatment of the escalating amount of wildlife that we have to deal with. Just becoming a member of SCWC for $45 a year would be a great help. Regular monthly donations however small, would be a wonderful gift and we could plan ahead knowing that we had x amount of funds that we could count on. Our small team of volunteers are all unpaid even our amazing vet Howard, so all funds raised go directly towards our precious wildlife. SCWC is TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
Find out more at: southerncrosswildlifecare.org.au/wp/
What Does PNHA do?
On-ground bush regeneration. eg: Asparagus Fern Out Days
Activities: guided walks, bird-watching
Quaterly informative newsletter, online or paper
Members email group for leaset environmental news and events
AGM with Guest Speaker
Free advice for members on managing gardens for Native Vegetation and fauna habitat
Lobbies Pittwater Council and State Government on inappropriate management practices and development
Provides support to Council for PNHA-approved grant applications for environmental projects
Publications: Introductory Field Guide to Birds of Warriewood Wetlands & Irrawong Reserve, $20.00rrp, attractive cards with photos of Pittwater scenes, flora and fauna $2.00
Email: pnhainfo@gmail.com Or click on Logo to visit website.
Increase In Premature Deaths In Australian Nursing Homes
May 29, 2017: Monash University
The first comprehensive study of deaths in Australian nursing homes has been published, revealing a more than 400 per cent increase in the incidence of premature and potentially preventable deaths of nursing home residents over the past decade.
These deaths -- from falls, choking, suicide and homicide -- account for almost 3,300 deaths of nursing home residents over a 13 year period.
The study, led by Professor Joseph Ibrahim, from the Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and published in the Medical Journal of Australia, used coronial data to review the deaths by external causes of all of nursing home residents between 2000 and 2013.
The study found that -- of the 21,672 deaths of nursing home residents reported to the Coroners Court during the 13 year period, 3,289, or 15.2 per cent, were from external or preventable causes, almost all unintentional.
Unintentional Deaths: Four out of five of those who died from external causes died from falls (81.5 per cent) while one in 12 died of choking (7.9 per cent). Somewhat surprising was the small number who died from complications of clinical care (1.2 per cent).
Intentional Deaths: Almost one in 18 people who died from preventable causes in aged care facilities were killed, either from suicide (4.4 per cent) and resident-to-resident assault (1.0 per cent).
The study found that the 400 per cent increase over the 13 year period in the number of preventable deaths in nursing homes is in part due to better reporting. However, Professor Ibrahim cautions that this figure is probably an under estimate owing to some deaths being misclassified as "natural" due to the tendency for health professionals and society to downplay the significance of the injury-related factors tending to assume old age and any underlying illness are the explanation for deaths.
Professor Ibrahim has called for a national strategy to reduce unnecessary harm including deaths in nursing homes:
"Professionals from governments and the nursing home sector should develop strategies for preventing these deaths and establish a lead authority, responsible for reducing harm by improving practice in nursing homes," Professor Ibrahim said.
"Currently no one entity is responsible for reducing harm by improving practice."
This national study is the first in the world to look at potentially preventable deaths in nursing homes using information from medico-legal investigations.
"Improving the quality of care for nursing home residents requires a better understanding of how, why, where and when they die. The global population is aging rapidly, and the need for aged care services is consequently increasing," Professor Ibrahim said.
"With this study we have our first real understanding of how many deaths are occurring in nursing homes that shouldn't be happening. However, there is a paucity of information about the cause and manner of premature deaths of nursing home residents from which we can review how these operations are run."
Professor Ibrahim acknowledged that the increased number of preventable deaths identified may be, in part, due to increased scrutiny of aged care facilities by the community and government.
Joseph E Ibrahim, Lyndal Bugeja, Melissa Willoughby, Marde Bevan, Chebiwot Kipsaina, Carmel Young, Tony Pham and David L Ranson.Premature deaths of nursing home residents: an epidemiological analysis. Medical Journal of Australia, May 2017 DOI:10.5694/mja16.00873
Providing $47 Million For Suicide Prevention Work Across Australia
28 May 2017: Media Release - The Hon Greg Hunt MP, Minister for Health, Minister for Sport
The Turnbull Government will provide a $47 million boost to front-line services for suicide prevention and directly address a growing community need.
Services will be available right across Australia and will include training for at risk families and support groups, face-to-face support for individuals in need, training for emergency response services and support for communities experiencing specific issues.
A series of communication programs will also be launched to provide tools and support to people and families most at risk.
Investments in research will also be made to ensure these programs are providing the best support possible to meet the intended need.
Among the 17 groups receiving funding are R U OK?, Mates in Construction Australia, Suicide Prevention Australia, United Synergies, Mindframe and Orygen.
Many of these organisations are respected household names – and this funding will help them to continue their important work.
Mental health is a matter very close to my heart and preventing suicide in our community is a matter of national importance.
I have met many families touched by suicide and their experience and stories is driving my determination to achieve real change.
Under the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program, more than $43 million will be allocated to 16 projects over a three year period to June 2019.
We will also provide $3 million to the Black Dog Institute to support our 12 National Suicide Prevention Trials being established around the country.
This funding will enable the Black Dog Institute to develop and implement community specific strategies within each prevention trial site.
We will also provide $1 million to specifically support mental health and reduce suicide in the health workforce.
Black Dog, in conjunction with Orygen, United Synergies and the Hunter Institute, will work with the AMA to determine the best way to provide these services to those in need.
We know that there are many people working in the health sector who are themselves battling mental health problems.
We want to make sure there is help available to these people who spend their whole working lives helping others.
Each year over 3000 Australians take their lives. This is a statistic we must reverse and as a community we must do all we can to turn the tide.
Express Trains To The Blue Mountains
May 31, 2017
The More Trains, More Services program has introduced more express services, more seats and reduced travel times to the Blue Mountains.
Commuters and tourists to the Blue Mountains will benefit from the new changes, including:
- twenty-four new express services between Sydney and the Blue Mountains on weekends
- dedicated eight car express tourist trains with around 20-minute cuts to return travel times
- an additional 25,000 additional seats every week
- an extra 18,000 seats on weekends
- a new weekday Sydney – Lithgow express service.
Weekday Sydney – Lithgow return express trains will also better service regional customers who interchange at Lithgow on their way to and from Sydney.
The government will also fast track some improvements in the coming weeks by:
- doubling capacity on six current weekend Blue Mountains services from four to eight carriages
- providing more than 4000 additional seats on weekends.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the Blue Mountains was a huge domestic and international tourist drawcard with more than a million visitors each year.
“We know many weekend trains are packed to the brim, so we’re taking action right now, ahead of the new timetable due to be implemented late this year,” Mr Constance said.
Find out more about the More Trains, More Services program
New Website For Business Events Australia
May 30, 2017
Tourism Australia’s brand new website dedicated to business events,www.australia.com/businessevents will give visitors an enhanced user experience and more opportunities to connect with Australians and discover why there’s nothing like Australia for business events.
Visitors to the site will notice a bright design that takes full advantage of Australia’s spectacular natural beauty with full-bleed images and 4K- quality films featuring prominently. The website also offers direct access to Tourism Australia business events representatives and Australian business events products and destinations, to allow users to easily make contact with sources of inspiration and information on holding a business event in Australia.
Tourism Australia undertook comprehensive research with international business events planners and decision makers, to ensure the new site delivers relevant up to the minute information on Australia in the most accessible and appealing ways.
“Australia is leading the way when it comes to delivering business events that exceed expectations, and our new website was created to ensure we also set a benchmark in providing planners and decision makers with an innovative, informative, visually-stunning and easy-to-use website,” said John O’Sullivan, Managing Director Tourism Australia.
“The feedback from planners and decision makers has told us that being able to access personalised assistance is crucial when planning business events. That’s why we have fully recreated the site to ensure we can continue to meet the needs of planners and decision markers, by providing an exceptional user experience for those considering Australia as the destination for their next business event,” said Mr O’Sullivan.
The website has been developed on the Adobe Experience Manager platform.
