000A88A4.0CD.tif · 132003.221037

3.2.2

This ecosystem consists of a tree canopy of approximately 8-12m height,
dominated by Paperbarked Teatree, with Swamp Mahogany occurring as a
sub-dominant over a low open shrub layer of species such as Broad Leaved
Banksia (B.robur), Cheese Tree, and Groundsel Bush (Baccharis halimifolia). The
ground layer is relatively dense (70-100% cover), consisting of sedges such as
Schoenus brevifolius, as well as other species such as those noted for the
eucalypt forest.

This ecosystem is equivalent to RE 12.2.7. Its status under the VM Act is “of
concern”.

e Ecosystem 3: Heath and sedgeland (RE 12.2.12)

This ecosystem occurs in the lower parts of the central drainage basin, as well
as along the eastern boundary.

It consists of a dense layer of vegetation of 2-3m height dominated by shrubs
and sedges, including Leptospermum liversidgei, Broad Leaved Banksia, and
Red-fruited Sawsedge (Gahnia sieberiana). Other species present include
species such as Ochrosperma lineare, Snowy Parrot Pea (Dillwynia floribunda),
and Dillwynia retorta. Paperbarked tea tree often occurs as a low but sparse
tree layer of 4-8m height, particularly in the central heathland area.

Ground layer species include the ferns Coral Fern (Gleichenia dicarpa}) and
Blechnum indicum, and the restiads Empodisma minus, Lepyrodia caudata,
Lepyrodia scariosa. Vines include Guinea Flower (Hibbertia salicifolia), Dampiera
sylvestris, and Dodder Laurel (Cassytha glabella). Along the fringes with the
Paperbarked Teatree communities, Monkey Rope (Parsonsia straminea) is
common.

This ecosystem is equivalent to RE 12.2.12. Its status under the VM Act is “not
of concern”.

Downstream And Surrounding Areas

The vegetation of the downstream areas (chiefly to the north and east) consist
of similar vegetation to that within the site, although much of the vegetation
to the north of the site has been cleared or thinned for the existing Noosa
North Shore Retreat. However, a band of heathland similar in structure and
composition to the central heathland on the site occurs in the lower lying
areas, continuing on from the central heathland on the site and connected to it
via a pipe. Further downstream, the heathland narrows and abuts more
terrestrial Eucalypt and Paperbarked Teatree forest. Drainage of the
heathland is along a clearly defined streambed of approximately 2-3m width
with eventual discharge into Lake Cooroibah. The stream channel and
adjacent areas are infested with significant quantities of weeds.

Areas to the east of the site consist of extensive heathlands similar to that
along the eastern boundary of the site. This is a very flat and low lying area

 

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA. 8030724 ECOLOGICAL REPORT/FINAL/17 SEPTEMBER 2003

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