December, 2011
I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy and holy Christmas.…and I hope you all have a fantastic and fun-filled and fantastic New Year.
Please take care if travelling on our roads, and please, spare a thought to those less fortunate than ourselves - people who are hungry, sick, poor or lonely.
Organisations, such as The Salvation Army and The Smith Family, proactively help those in need.
This Christmas, please consider making a donation and help bring a smile to someone's face.
22 September, 2011
SADLY, over 40 trees (including mature koala food trees) have been vandalised in Birkdale.
Trees within existing parklands provide food and shelter for wildlife, and an aesthetic setting for residents.
Over the years I have seen koalas, possums, insects and birds nesting in these trees.
I hope the culprits are remorseful and remember The Australian Koala Foundation motto: "No tree, No me".
For the sake of our residents and wildlife, please take pride in your city and care for our native fauna and flora.
Update:
I would like to remind RCC that not everyone in our city is financially secure. Please, let’s not forget about the poor, the local businesses, the community groups, the elderly, and the ordinary mums and dads.
Mayoral candidate, Cr Karen WIlliams said, "the 6.5 per cent average rise in general residential rates and an 11.5 per cent hike in commercial rates was unacceptable and would cause hardship across the city (Bayside Bulletin).
Let's make a vow to build a new, positive and caring Redlands.
22 June, 2011
2011 Healthy Waterways Award
As usual, the Gala Dinner was enjoyable and provided an opportunity to network with like-minded people.
I would like to congratulate all the winners. In particular, I would like to say a big 'well done' to Redland City Council for winning the BMT WBM Government Award; and to Professor Bill Dennison, who won the Urban Utilities Waterways Champion Award.
While I didn't win the Waterways Champion Award, I feel privileged to be nominated and sit amongst such esteemed professionals.
I would now like to take this opportunity to thank the three people who nominated me for this award: Mark Robinson, Jennifer Singfield and Jennifer Miller. Their constant support has helped me continue my environmental efforts in a positive and proactive way.
24 April, 2011
Polluted waterways exist in the Redlands.
WATER from a stormwater drain (located near the bird hide at the Geoff Skinner reserve) leads directly into the Wetlands and Moreton Bay.
Thick, reddish, smelly and bubbly water greets visitors to the bird hide. Plastic bottles and cigarette butts further adds to the eyesore.
It is important to maintain healthy waterways for the preservation of our fauna and flora. A clean environment also provides a pleasant atmosphere for residents and visitors to Redland City.
The water quality at this location is poor. Action is required NOW.
* A special thank you to the people who offered to help me clean up this mess. You guys are fantastic. :)
22 April, 2011
EASTER is a time for peace and joy. It is a time to concentrate on forgiveness and new beginnings. It is not a time to focus on bitterness and negativity.
Les Brown, an American motivational speaker, once said: "Your smile will give you a positive countenance that will make people feel comfortable around you".
If politicians combine this advice with enthusiasm, compassion, integrity and logic, then our community (people and the environment) will reap the rewards and progress in a positive direction.
8 January, 2011
Action is required NOW!!!
It has been rumoured that some prominent groups may wish to gain major media coverage and raise their profiles if they organise a massive Moreton Bay Clean-up event on the 6 March, 2011. Sadly, this will be nothing more than ‘Green Veneer’.
But the health of Moreton Bay is under threat right NOW. Turtles, dugongs and other marine animals will become ill and possibly die if we wait until the Clean Up Australia Day to perform a major clean-up.
Plastic bags and old balloons kill turtles. Abandoned fishing line strangles seabirds and other marine life. Litter can smother our seagrass meadows. Waiting until the 6 March to perform a major clean-up of Moreton Bay is too late – action is required now!
Over the past few weeks volunteers have been busy cleaning the bay, working quietly and achieving major results. Last week I visited the foreshores of Thornlands and Cleveland and picked up a ton of trash; today members of the Marine-Care group cleaned up Ormiston and Wellington Point foreshore. Thornside, Victoria Point and Redland Bay are scheduled for next week.
By being proactive and taking a positive approach, we can make a difference. Hopefully, by the time Clean Up Australia Day comes around, there shouldn’t be too much trash left on our foreshores and the lives of our marine animals will be spared. Within the Redlands, volunteers found mostly old balloons (image 1) and plastic containers (image 2 & 3) on the foreshores. Since the floods, these sites have been monitored on a weekly basis.
On the north side of Brisbane, individuals have also been busy cleaning up Nudgee Beach as well as other local foreshores. I was amazed to see how much trash was collected from these sites.
You just have to turn the page of your local newspaper and you will read about the hundreds of wonderful volunteers who have also been busy cleaning up the Bay and other flood affected areas. These people have decided to take action now because they sincerely care about the residents, their cities, the wildlife and the health of Moreton Bay. Every individual has a story to tell and every individual has made a positive difference.
Every single person is important; every single person can make a difference; and, every single person who assists in the aftermath of the flood is a hero.
Well done all. :-)
27 January, 2011
Australia Day
Ok, so Australia Day was incredibly hot, but I hope you all still enjoyed yourselves and celebrated this day in a true Aussie fashion.
There were a handful of Redlanders who won Australia Day awards. These people have dedicated their lives to making our community a better place to live in. I congratulate the winners as well as all those who were nominated.
How did I spend the day? Well, in the morning I visited the beach with family and friends. The company was fantastic and the beach was amazing: clear blue sky, sparking white sand and inviting water…need I say more?
In the afternoon I went on a 10km hike, where I was drenched with sweat, covered with bites, made some amazing finds and came back with some awesome pics.
The hike: yes it was hot, hot, hot, but each time exhausting set in, some amazing sight revitalised me. On the walk I came across a Christmas Orchid Calanthe australasica that was in flower. I have NEVER seen this species before so I was quite excited by this discovery. This orchid flowers from October–February and has similar leaves to the Swap Orchid and the Pink Shepherd’s Crook Orchid. The recent rain has also encouraged some interesting fungi to grow. On my hike I came across some Russula purpureoflava (and please feel free to correct me if I’m wrong because I value the expert opinion of others).
Red-necked Wallabies Macropus rufogriseua and an Eastern Water Dragons Physignathus lesueurii were also spotted, as with some other not-so-welcome creatures. Towards the end of my walk I was bitten by a Giant Bull Ant Myrmecia brevinoda. What can I say? These little blighters are aggressive and have a powerful sting that would make a stone statue weep! The second unwelcome creature was a blood sucking leech Chtonobdella witmani. It must have been on me for some time because by the time I noticed it ‘the little darling’ was approximately 5cm long and looking very bloated. But on the positive side, I managed to take some good pics of my attackers and when you look closely at the images they do look kinda cute...
I can sum up my Australia Day experience in two words: Bloody terrific! While I didn’t throw a shrimp of the BBQ, the beach and the trek through some of our pristine bushlands made me think of Australia Day and why this day is special to so many Aussies. I believe it is because of the great mateship we have with each other, the love of our homelands, our passion to protect our unique fauna and flora, and our strong desire to make our nation a better place to live in.
17 January, 2011
Digital Koala Signs.
An article entitled: "Flashing signs fail to save endangered koalas" appeared in the Courier Mail on 11 January, 2011.
The Australian Koala Foundation executive director Deborah Tabart, who is one of Australia's leading Koala experts, gave her opinion on these signs.
In order to save Koalas, sensible strategies are needed rather than ad hoc decisions.
Please read the article as this is an important issue for all Redlanders.
16 January, 2011
Thank you to all the wonderful people who have helped someone in need. Showing kindness is the way to create a happy and sustainable community.
A happy and sustainable community cannot be created by dictating, being dishonest, being obsessed about controlling population, inventing false stories, and childishly calling others 'lazy'. Selfish people who resort to such tactics, IMO, have an immature mindset and lack integrity.
I have a lot of respect for those who show compassion towards others, for those who are sincere and for those who genuinely care for the environment.
15 January, 2011
Kinross Road development at Thornlands
Given the flood, the deaths, the losses and the heartbreak, it would be selfish and very wrong not to allow people to relocate to the Redlands and build a new life for themselves at Kinross Road, Thornlands.
It is possible to develop a new estate and maintain a sustainable city, healthy waterways and environment - but Redland City Council and the State Government must work together.
It is equally important that well-known local green groups are ethical and do not engage in scare campaigns in order to boost their own egos and push their own agendas.
Compassion and consideration towards others is needed.
9 December, 2010
On Tuesday, 7th December 2010, I wrote a letter to Redland City Council, members of the West Eprapah Creek Wildlife Reserve (WECWR) Bushcare Group and other people of interest.
I wrote this letter for all to read because I believe respect for all members of our community is important. The purpose of this letter: to initiate communication and good will between Redland City Council, environmental groups and members of the WECWE bushcare group. It appears as if relations between this green council and green supporters have been somewhat tainted.
Members of this bushcare group have cared for the fauna and flora this reserve for many years; therefore, it would have been appropriate and respectful for RCC to consult the members prior the construction of this path.
I was informed that this site was cleared about 7 years ago - which was when the previous council was in power.
If we analyse this statement we can read it two ways: this green council accepted the vegetation loss and decided not to formally engage in replanting trees exercises in this area. It also can be read as this green council approved and accepted the decision of the previous council - which effectively means the previous council should be given the majority credit to improving the environmental standards of the Redlands (the same email that contained the above statement also endorsed the current RCC’s decision to construct the path and described in-depth the 'environmental benefits' of having a cement path through a nature reserve.
However, there is second way of reading this same statement: this green council failed to devise their own strategies. They decided that revegetating the cleared area was of little consequence. They also failed to fully consult with the bushcare workers and decided pushed the only correct decision – which was their own, so it would appear.
Fact: the construction of this path increases the number walkers, bikes and dogs (which, according to WPSQ and RCC documents, are a major threat to koalas). RCC made a decision not to fully engage members of the community, and given this situation commenced 7 years ago, it would appear if they had plenty of time to do so!
The good news is that members of the West Eprapah Creek Wildlife Reserve bushcare group responded to the below letter and are happy to attend such a meeting and it appears as they are willing to rebuild good relationships between RCC and community groups. Sadly, I have received no emails from RCC and WPSQ - but I am still hopeful....
For the good of our environment and community, let's encourage respect and understanding between ALL members of the community.
7 December, 2010
(Letter to WEST Eprapah Creek Wildlife Reserve Bushcare Group, Redland City Council, and others)
Dear All,
I am writing to you all because I am concerned that a contentious situation concerning the newly constructed path at West Eprapah Creek Wildlife Reserve (WECWR) exists. I am also aware that email correspondence between several individuals has occurred. However, it is my belief that resolving conflicts via emails is not an effective way to communicate.
May I kindly suggest WECWR, Cr Toni Bowler and Mr Baltais arrange a meeting to discuss matters in a cordial and professional manner. Please consider organising a meeting before this situation blows out of all proportion.
I suggest the above as an impartial observer. I am not a member of this particular bushcare group, I am not a member of WPSQ and I am not employed by RCC, but I do take a genuine interest in the environment and the welfare of Redland’s residents.
Environmentalists (whether individuals, community groups or green councils) MUST work together for the common good. Without respect and effective communication (on all sides), the environment and wildlife will suffer and what you are trying to save will be lost.
I understand the Bayside Bulletin has been included in some email correspondence, therefore (out of respect to them) I include them in the cc list.
Regards,
Dianne Hausler.
October, 2010
Since the introduction of dump fees, a marked increase in the amount of illegal dumping has been noticed.
Hardly a week goes by when house-hold items, old tyres, broken bottles, paint tins, fridges, televisions, and other forms of waste is not dumped in bushland reserves or in nearby waterways.
Now, ask yourself the question, where does all the illegally dumped rubbish go? It doesn’t just vaporise into thin air. No! After it is picked up by paid Council employees, it ends up at a dump site (the same place where most of this waste would have been legally placed, if dump fees were not introduced). And what about additonal cost to ratepayers? Once illegal dumping is reported, council is then required to assign paid workers to clean up and dispose of this mess.
Over the past twelve months, regular water monitoring has been conducted in and around Tarradarrapin Wetlands. The results indicate a significant increase in pollutants and deterioration in the overall health of the waterways in the places where illegal dumping has occurred.
The health of local wetlands and waterways is important, as many creeks and streams lead directly to Moreton Bay. Anyone who is genuinely concerned about the health of the Bay should be alarmed by the continuation of dump fees, and should consider the serious consequences that illegal dumping has on the sustainability of the fragile aquatic ecosystem.
6 October, 2010
Take a Walk...
Ransome Bushland Reserve, on Chelsea Road, Ransome, is simply buzzing with wildlife and wildflowers. On a walk today I came across the cutest baby possum hiding in the grass (and not to fear, its mummy was nearby).
30 September, 2010
The 2010 Healthy Waterways Report Card will be released on Wednesday, 20 October, 2010.
I have been invited to attend the launch, which will be held at the Riverlife Centre at Kangaroo Point. The results of the 2009 Report Card was somewhat disappointing: Redlands Catchment received a shameful ‘F’.
The report card stated: Redlands “failed to meet ecosystem health guidelines”.
I eagerly await this year’s results and, in particular, I am interested in learning the outcomes of specific creeks such as Tingalpa and Tarradarrapin.
Given we have a 'Green Council' and Redlands has won this year’s Sustainable Cities Awards, I expect to see good results and a vast improvement on last year’s rating.
Let this year’s Healthy Waterways Report Card be a living testament to the effective work of Redland City Councillors.
7 September, 2010 
In my opinion digital koala signs are an extreme waste of ratepayer's money.
In the Bayside Bulletin, "Councillor Debra Henry (Div 3) said the mobility of the signs had still been positive,” however, when considering the mobility and logical placement of these signs, Cr Henry’s comment is somewhat questionable.
For example: on Old Cleveland Road East, at Birkdale, residents will notice that this council has placed one of their flashing koala signs only a few meters in front of an existing non-digital koala sign…you know the ones: the koala picture inside a yellow triangle – everyone knows them because of the bright colours and the iconic image.
So why the double up when, in reality, both signs serve to inform drivers of the presence of koalas in an area.
Is council suggesting that the iconic sign serves no purpose – hence the doubling up on signs?
Or, are they placing their flashing signs near existing standardsigns because they expect their expensive digital signs to go on the blink again?
Or, are some still acting like children in the council playground and playing, ‘lets impulsively spend ratepayers money on flashy gadgets without doing adequate research?’
Now, if we can leave the playground for a moment, Redland’s residents have noticed the ongoing maintence costs of these signs. Replacing batteries every few days, and the cost of a council employee to do so, is an expensive task.
Redland City Council’s proposal to invest in new trailers bearing solar panels to power the digital signs is also, in my opinion, a seriously flawed scheme. Besides the additional cost to ratepayers, these trailers will need to be placed near the signs, which may cause traffic hazards, if placed on roads, or cause hazards and injury to pedestrians if placed on footpaths – and let’s not forget the issue of vandalism.
Redland City Council, hasn’t ratepayers paid enough for these signs? While some other environmentalists may defend this council’s ongoing expenditure, I will argue that the best way to maintaining a sustainable environment is to show compassion to residents, and get down and dirty: pick up rubbish, plant trees in existing koala corridors, report sick and injured wildlife and slow down when you see a ‘standard’ koala sign (or a digital one when they are not on the blink).
I believe it is possible to care for the environment and protect the wildlife without all the expensive gadgets, the things-a-bobs that go ‘FLASH’ and ‘BING’ in the night, and the ‘oh-so-pretty!!!’ toys that will amuse even the smallest of minds.
25 September, 2010
Yesterday, as part of the Marine-Watch group, I monitored the seagrass and marine life at Ormiston. The seagrass coverage (primarily, eelgrass zostera capricorni) has increased dramatically since July 2010.
Healthy seagrass meadows now cover areas that were once sand. On a negative note: I discovered an old fishing net, some fishing line, three dead stingrays – all of which had their tails removed – and a decomposing seabird, which had died after becoming entangled in the discarded fishing line.
There appears to be an increase in abandoned fishing line, fishing nets, hooks and crab pots at Ormiston (off Empire Vista) over the last few months.
I sent an email to Redland City Council and informed them of the situation. I also suggested the installation of fishing line bins and educational signage at this site.
* Update: As observed on 22 December, 2010, NO bins have been installed at this Ormiston site and a real threat to marine wildlife still exists.
30 August, 2010
Tarradarrapin Bushcare
Last Sunday afternoon an enthusiastic group of people met to monitor the water in Tarradarrapin Wetlands.
Bushcare is a fun activity that promotes personal fitness. The group walk the entirety of the wetlands (being mindful of dangerous conditions due to the open stormwater drain and the lack of footpath on Collingwood Road). Info on walk around Tarradarrapin Wetlands. I plead with Redland City Council to improve these conditions so to save lives from harm.
The bushcare group tested the water at five locations - with the water quality degrading nearer to the Birkdale land fill. Leachate from the landfill has been observed entering the waterways.
Tarradarrapin Bushcare group welcomes our new members...it was fantastic to see everyone enjoying themselves. See you next month. :)
Green Army
25 July, 2010
Thank you to all who attended the Tarradarrapin Bushcare meeting today. Talk about super workers!!!
Within a half hour period, members uprooted over 1000 weeds, removed bricks and rocks that found their way into the children's play ground, removed broken glass and collected several bags of trash.
Bushcare is a fun and rewarding activity that promotes friendships, community awareness and helps to maintain a healthy environment.
Bushcare also helps to maintain personal physical fitness...perhaps I should promote bushcare as the ultimate beauty regime as it beautifies the community, body and soul. :-)
24 July, 2010
The Peaks to Points Festival celebrates the diverse natural environment of greater Brisbane’s southern region, from the dramatic heights of Flinders Peak near Ipswich, to the tranquil waters of Moreton Bay (http://www.peakstopoints.com.au/).
The Peaks to Points Festival allows local communities to showcase the unique features of their own ecosystems and provides a series of programs of fun-filled activities and informative displays.
Moreton Bay Coastcare, together with Redland City Council, are hosting the “Moreton Bay Dreaming: Peaks to Points Festival” at Wellington Point Reserve on Saturday 24th July between 10am and 2pm.
This festival will examine the inland, coastal and marine wildlife habitats of Redland City, King Island, Waterloo Bay and Moreton Bay.
On the day there will be activities and displays from many environmental organisations, giveaways, informative talks, a self-guided walk to King Island and children’s craft activities.
In addition to being a coral cay, King Island is one of the few areas in Moreton Bay that encompass four habitat types: inshore reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows and sponge habitats – it is also one of the few islands that is accessible by foot at low tide.
King Island’s wildlife biodiversity is significant: from birds to fish, dugongs, turtles, crabs, rays, and sharks. King Island is a unique place that needs to be cared for, for the enjoyment of residents and the preservation of the natural habitat.
The Moreton Bay Dreaming committee has brought together some of the best environmental and community groups that the Redlands has to offer. It is a day of environmental awareness, education and fun for the whole family.
14 July, 2010
Well, what can I say...an afternoon at Ormiston is about as good as it gets.
The amount of wildlife never ceases to amaze me, and the sunsets are absolutely stunning!
If anyone is interested in viewing such wildlife (and a romantic sunset), take a trip to Ormiston (via Empire Vista).
26 June, 2010
Tarradarrapin Wetlands is an amazing place to visit. Situated right in the middle of the suburbs, these wetlands are not only a fascinating example of an increasingly rare local habitat; they are home to a range of native plants and animals.
While saved from the destruction that has been the fate of so many other wetland areas in the Redlands, Tarradarrapin Wetlands are facing another threat – illegal dumping.
Since the introduction of the residential waste disposal fees in 2008, a marked increase in illegal dumping has been noticed in and around this area. The 1998 Redland Shire Council (RSC) Conservation Officer Report states, “Wildlife movement in and out of the area is predominately linked to Tarradarrapin Creek and its associated vegetation.” Therefore, it is essential that these wetlands remain free from pollution.
Given the fact that Tarradarrapin is visited by adults and children, safety has also become an issue. To help combat this problem, a few local residents have started walking the perimeter of the wetlands and reporting the presence of illegal dumping and the condition of sick or injured wildlife.
Since the initial introduction of tip fees and the rise of illegal dumping throughout the Redlands, RCC has reduced their gate fees. While illegal dumping still occurs, this council should be congratulated for seeing the flaws in their initial decision and rethinking their policy. Hopefully, a marked reduction of illegally dumped waste will be seen once a sensible waste management strategy is developed and adopted by Council.
The koala is one of the significant native animals that can be seen here. The Australian Koala foundation’s motto: “No tree, no me” provides a simple and effective method of saving koalas. In order to save koalas, koala food trees must be readily available – the motto doesn’t suggest the spending of thousand of dollars on electronic koala signs.
Over the past decade, koala food trees have been planted in and around Tarradarrapin Wetlands, and over the last two years, residents have spotted a growing number of healthy koalas. Apart from planting additional trees, reporting sick or injured koalas can help preserve the life of these iconic creatures.
Wetlands such as these reward those who take the time to explore them with many discoveries. The Tarradarrapin Wetlands have a short walking track at the moment (as well two children’s play areas), but they would really benefit from an additional walking track at the northern end. Carefully designed walking paths allow residents to enjoy the wetlands and learn more about the wildlife that lives in the vicinity of their own backyards, so it would be great of the Council could work with residents to develop more tracks.
28 April, 2010
 There were so many amazing finds at today's Seagrass Watch monitoring session at Ormiston. We came across crabs, sponges, a variety of anemones, Moreton Bay balers, sea slugs, and much, much more...
Moreton Bay has a wonderful array of aquatic wildlife and it is for this reason that we must protect our oceans and all that lives in them.
25 April, 2010
Lest we forget
ANZAC Day (25 April) is a day of remembrance to honour members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during World War 1.
In both nations, memorial services were held at dawn to remember the soldiers who fought for their countries.
The first official dawn service was held at the Sydney Centaph in 1927 and in many cases were restricted to veterans only.
Today, the dawn service is open to the public, and attracts hundreds of people from all age groups.
The laying of wreaths, the minute of silence, the playing of "The Last Post" and the emotional gathering of the crowds, verifies that the spirit of the ANZACS will live on in the heart and minds of Australians and New Zealanders - forever.
11 April, 2010
Seagrass Watch Afternoon
A fun day in the sun...and mud at Ormiston
Today, six enthusiastic volunteers met to monitor the OR1 site.
Joshua and Samuel Miller (photo to the left) eagerly checked out the equipment before their 'big adventure'. On field, itsy-bitsy teeny-weeny creatures were examined by the boys.
The afternoon was amazing! The team noticed an increase in the number of crabs, seabirds and seagrass.
A big thankyou to all volunteers!!!!
...thanks must also be given to the Seagrass Watch manager and coordinator who devotes a vast amount of time and effort to the Moreton Bay Community Seagrass Watch program. Their passion and tireless efforts has ensured that our aquatic fauna and flora is in safer hands and the care of our fragile environment remains in the forefront of our minds.
3 April, 2010
If you are lucky enough to have a supportive and like-minded friend, treat them to a walk around Ormiston (via Empire Vista).
Today, I took my trusted camera for a trip and together we discovered a world of amazing wildife and beauty that ranged from beautiful sea birds to colourful mistletoe, common toad fish, sand crabs, a variety of algae, and hermit crabs.
It is well worth the trip... :-)
1 April, 2010
Some Amazing Finds.
It' amazing what you can find in your own back yard.
After a long period of dry weather, which resulted in record low levels of water in Queensland's dams, it is a relief to have some decent rain.
Apart from filling our dams to new levels and greening our front lawns, many types of fungi are appearing in wetlands, local parks and in our own back yards.
15 November, 2009
Tarradarrapin Bushcare
On Saturday, 15 November 2009, bushcare volunteers reopened an old bush track that was badly overgrown. Keeping with tradition, a lucky door prize was drawn. This month's prize was won by Joshua Miller from Logan city.
For an hour and a half, Joshua pulled out weeds, cut overgrown vine, carted rubbish and trimmed trees. He is to be praised for his hard work and enthusiasm.
This was our last bushcare meeting for the year, so
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my bushcare volunteers, supporters, friends and the companies who have generously donated gifts throughout the year.
26th October, 2009
It is important that the waterways remain healthy as the water from Tarradarrapin leads directly into the bay.
As stated in the 2009 Ecosystem Health Report Card, the health of Moreton Bay has already taken a nose dive in the last twelve months and has dropped from a B- to a D.
Contaminants such oil, detergents, and household rubbish have entered the wetlands.
Independent testing on 26 October, 2009 indicates a dramatic decrease in the water quality at the site of the stormwater drain on Tulloch drive near the children’s playground. A pH reading of 8.7 (alkaline) was recorded.
Tarradarrapin Wetlands is a RAMSAR protected site and has great ecological value. Swordfish, eels, turtles, birds and frogs all reside in these wetlands. However, a recent fauna conducted on 2nd October 2009, found a reduction in wildlife compared to previous surveys. Short-finned eels, sword-tailed fish have vanished.
Given the important ecological value of these wetlands and the current health of Moreton Bay, it would be beneficial if Gross Pollutant Traps/SQID stormwater filters were installed.
25 October, 2009
Tree Planting Morning at Tarradarrapin Wetlands.
First of all, thanks to all who helped on the day - another success!
250 trees were planted at Tarradarrapin Wetlands. Primary and secondary koala food trees (Blue Gum and Broad Leaf Paperbark) were planted alongside a selection of native plants and grasses.
Residents from both the Redlands and Logan City pitched in to revegetate the area.
The environment and climate change is not a local issue, it is a global issue. The catchments of Logan and Redlands both lead into Moreton Bay, therefore it is only logical that we should cross boundaries and help each other out. Tarradarrapin Bushcare group is not restricted to residents of the Birkdale area and we warmly welcome visitors to the Redlands.
This is the second tree planting within a short space of time. On the 2nd August approximately 200 enthusiastic people planted over 4000 trees on as part of National Tree Day, an event organised by the Redland City Council. These additional trees will enhance the wildlife corridor and give our iconic species a fighting chance of survival.
4th October, 2009
Today (4th October) is World Animal Day.
World Animal Day was founded in 1931 as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is celebrated in many countries throughout the world.
October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is also the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi - the patron saint of animals and the environment.
Saint Francis of Assisi (born 1181/1182, died 3rd October, 1226) is known for his kindness and compassion to all in society, to the environment and to animals. Many of the stories that surround his life deal with his love for animals.
On this important day, let us consider our environment, and let us also show kindness to all who help protect our wildlife. Doing good for the common cause should not be eroded by negativity, jealousy or unethical standards; instead, it should be greeted with respect and enthusiasm. Together, with a positive mindset and a willingness to accept each other, our wildlife and environment will stand a chance against the myriad of threats that they constantly face.
In particular, let us today consider the plight of the koala – they need your help! I urge everyone to please sign the Redland City Council Koala petition and visit the The Australian Koala Foundation to find out how you can help.
And finally, many thanks to EVERYONE who cares for our environment and wildlife! I’m sure if our animals could talk, they would thank you too!
2nd October, 2009
Spotlight Report at Tarradarrapin Wetlands.
What a turnout! 33 people turned up for Tarradarrapin's spotlight night, which was held on Friday, 2nd October, 2009.
Sadly, not one koala was seen. This was our third spotlight evening, but our first without seeing one of our iconic creatures! Where have they all gone? Not looking good! Please visit my koala page and www.savethekoala.com to find out how you can help.
While the number of other species has also decreased - compared to previous fauna surveys - the sighting of a Squirrel Glider (petaurus norfolcensis) caused much excitement. Squirrel Gliders are found in dry forests and woodlands and feed on wattle exudates, nectars and insects; however, due to cats and habitat clearing their numbers have decreased.
10th September, 2009
The Importance of Compassion.
"They think the world revolves around them and they are not considerate. They are not kind. They are trapped in a cage of narcissism." - P.M. Forni
It is important that environmental campaigners retain a sense of compassion, for to lose it will only result in damaging what they are trying to save. Compassion to our fauna and flora - as well as to each other - is important. Engaging in open and honest communication, answering questions, treating colleagues as equals, and finding time for one's friends, is what creates the framework for a sustainable environment.
Steve Irwin and Judith Wright were individuals who made a positive difference to our wildlife; however, they also knew the importance of working as a team, showing compassion and striving towards a common goal. Individuals who display these qualities are the ones who will always be remembered.
2nd August, 2009
National Tree Day at Wellington Point
Approximately 200 enthusiastic people celebrated National Tree Day at Wellington Point, here in the Redlands. The atmosphere was uplifting and festive – so, all in all, the event was a huge success…a triumph for our wildlife, environment and our local community!
Over 4000 trees were planted within two hours - woo hoo!!!
It was wonderful see our Mayor, Melva Hobson, and Cr Wendy Boglary and Cr Kathy Reimers at this event; their dedication to the Redland’s community and their passion towards striving for a sustainable environment was clear to see.
Boyd Essex, Travis Green and Kylie Burton from the Redland City Council worked wonders and are a credit to our society – well done guys!
A talk from Professor William Grey (from the University of Queensland), and displays from the Koala Action Group and the Wildlife Ambulance provided everyone with vital information and much food for thought.
This was such a joyous occasion that saw residents working together and taking proactive steps towards creating an environment that we all can be proud of.
While I was talking to our Mayor, one resident came up to us and said, "...Redlands is the place to be." Well, my friends, I'll have to agree!
30th July, 2009
 I recently become a Healthy Waterways Award finalist for my work with Tarradarrapin Wetlands. However, this would not have been possible without the help of my dedicated team.
I would especially like to thank Jennifer Miller, Boyd Essex and Don Baxter for all their support.
5th June, 2009
A disappearing act
This morning, I drove to the University of Queensland in a white-washed world that was eerie and remarkably quiet. A blanket of thick white fog covered the normally recognisable landmarks of our City. Gone were the suburban houses, gone were the bridges, and gone were the tall buildings–or so it appeared.
Without the presence of a multitude of buildings and other man-made structures, this state of unfamiliarity evoked thoughts of yesteryear. I tried to imagined what Queensland would have looked like in the early 1800’s, before the destruction of pristine bushlands and the barrage of suburbia.
I recently came across an article that was compiled from convict notes. One convict, who had been amongst those transferred from Redcliffe to Brisbane in 1825, described the area where Brisbane’s Victoria Bridge now stands, as “an immense jungle – a tangled mass of trees, vines, flowering creepers, staghorns, elkhorns, towering scrub palms, giant ferns, and hundreds of other varieties of the fern family, beautiful and rare orchids…while along the river bank were the waterlily in thousands…”
Today, without the assistance of a fog-induced reverie, it is hard for us to imagine the banks of the Brisbane River as a haven for rare orchids and exotic ferns. Sadly, decades of continuous development in South East Queensland has eradicated much of nature’s beauty. We cannot undo all the follies of the past, but we can learn from our mistakes and endeavour to take positive steps to preserve our remaining bushlands and create sustainable communities.
3rd June, 2009
What a load of garbage
Since the recent introduction of dump fees, an increase in the amount of illegal dumping has been noticed.
Hardly a week goes by when house-hold rubbish, old tyres, broken bottles, paint tins, and other forms of waste is not dumped in bushland reserves or in nearby waterways. Council is then required to assign paid workers to clean up and dispose of this mess.
Now, ask yourself the question, where does all the illegally dumped rubbish go? It doesn’t just vaporise into thin air. No, after it is picked up by paid Council employees, it ends up at the dump (the same place where most of this waste would have been legally placed, if dump fees were not introduced).
Over the past few months, regular water monitoring has been conducted in and around Tarradarrapin Wetlands. The results indicate a significant increase in pollutants and deterioration in the overall health of the waterways in the places where illegal dumping has occurred.
The health of local wetlands and waterways is important, as many creeks and streams lead directly to Moreton Bay. Anyone who is genuinely concerned about the health of the Bay should be alarmed by the introduction of dump fees, and consider the serious consequences that illegal dumping has on the sustainability of the fragile aquatic ecosystem.
10101010101000001000100011000000101000001100000010101010110011001111000011000000110011001000100011001100111100001000100011111111
|