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                   Ordinary Meeting Agenda
                                17 June 2021
                       Item 2 - Attachment 1


Noosa Bushland Reserves
Strategic Management Plan
2021 – 2026
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Section 2

    Acknowledgement of Country

    Noosa Shire Council acknowledges the traditional Country of the Kabi Kabi peoples and
    recognises that these have always been places of cultural, spiritual and social significance.

    We wish to pay respects to their Elders – past, present, and emerging – and acknowledge the
    important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within the Noosa
    community.




© Noosa Council 2021

www.noosa.qld.gov.au

General Enquiries:
By telephone: (07) 5329 6500
By email: [email protected]
Fax: (07) 5329 6501
Street Address: 9 Pelican Street, TEWANTIN
Postal address: PO Box 141, TEWANTIN QLD 4565

Endorsed by Noosa Council [date to be inserted]

Section 3

Table of Contents
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 5
        1.1          Council’s Bushland Reserve Network ....................................................................... 5
        1.2          Reserve prioritisation................................................................................................ 6
        1.3          Purpose of the Plan .................................................................................................. 6
2.      Vision & Objectives ............................................................................................................. 7
        2.1          Council’s Vision for Noosa Bushland Reserves Network .......................................... 7
        2.2          Noosa Bushland Reserve Network’s Objectives ....................................................... 7
3.      Statutory & Strategic Obligations ....................................................................................... 9
        3.1          Legislative Drivers .................................................................................................. 10
        3.2          Planning Drivers ..................................................................................................... 10
4.      Bushland Reserve Values ................................................................................................. 12
        4.1          Biodiversity values ................................................................................................. 12
        4.2          Ecosystem Services Values ................................................................................... 15
        4.2.1        Catchment Values ........................................................................................................... 16
        4.2.2        Recreational Values......................................................................................................... 17
        4.2.3        Landscape and Scenic Amenity Values .......................................................................... 18
        4.2.4        Climate Change Amelioration .......................................................................................... 18
        4.3          Cultural & Historical Values .................................................................................... 18
5.      Pressures on the Bushland Reserve Network ................................................................. 20
        5.1          Invasive Species .................................................................................................... 20
        5.2          Fire......................................................................................................................... 22
        5.3          Nutrient Pollution .................................................................................................... 22
        5.4          Human Impacts on Open Space and Urban Interface ............................................ 23
        5.5          Human/Wildlife Conflict .......................................................................................... 23
6.      Current Management Planning & Resourcing ................................................................. 24
        6.1          Reserve Planning History ....................................................................................... 24
        6.2          Reserve Tenure ..................................................................................................... 24
        6.3          Current Management Resourcing .......................................................................... 25
        6.3.1        Internal Council Investment ............................................................................................. 25
        6.3.2        Community Involvement .................................................................................................. 25
7.      Noosa Reserve Management Framework 2021-2026 ....................................................... 27
        7.1          Formal Management Framework ........................................................................... 27
        7.2          Reserve Prioritisation Method ................................................................................ 29
        7.3          Reserve Prioritisation Results ................................................................................ 31
        7.4          Reserve Management Planning Mechanisms ........................................................ 33
        7.4.1        Reserve Management Plans ........................................................................................... 33
        7.4.2        Ecological Restoration Plans ........................................................................................... 34
        7.4.3        Bushland Operational Assessments ............................................................................... 34
        7.5          Annual Reserve Inspection Reports ....................................................................... 37

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                                              Page 2

Section 4

      7.6         Service Levels ........................................................................................................ 37
8.    Operational Management Review ..................................................................................... 38
      8.1         Management Planning Activities ............................................................................ 38
      8.1.1       Reserve Naming Convention Introduced ........................................................................ 38
      8.1.2       Reserve Signage ............................................................................................................. 38
      8.1.3       Reserve Protective Mechanisms ..................................................................................... 38
      8.2         Management Resourcing Activities ........................................................................ 38
      8.2.1       External Investment Opportunities .................................................................................. 38
      8.2.2       Offset Area Designation & Management Funding........................................................... 39
      8.2.3       Regrowth Carbon Offset Investigation ............................................................................ 39
      8.3         Community Education and Engagement Activities ................................................. 39
      8.3.1       Community Education & Awareness ............................................................................... 39
      8.3.2       Bushland Care Program .................................................................................................. 40
      8.4         Operational Activities.............................................................................................. 40
      8.4.1       Reactionary Issues – Customer Requests ...................................................................... 40
      8.4.2       Invasive species management. ....................................................................................... 40
      8.4.3       Fire Management. ............................................................................................................ 41
      8.4.4       Recreational Trails ........................................................................................................... 41
      8.4.5       Habitat enhancement....................................................................................................... 42
      8.4.6       Collection activities .......................................................................................................... 42
      8.4.7       Addressing impacts from unauthorised use .................................................................... 42
      8.5         Building Reserve Knowledge Activities ................................................................... 42
9.    Action Plan ......................................................................................................................... 43
10.   Monitoring & Evaluation Strategy ..................................................................................... 46
      10.1        Noosa Bushland Strategic Plan Review ................................................................. 46
      10.2        Operational Works Review ..................................................................................... 48
      10.2.1      Annual Reserve Assessment and Budget Review .......................................................... 48
      10.2.2      Expert Panel Condition Assessment Reviews ................................................................ 48
      10.2.3      BOA / Ecological Restoration Plans ................................................................................ 48
11.   References ......................................................................................................................... 49
12.   Appendices ........................................................................................................................ 50
      12.1        Appendix 1 – Noosa Bushland Reserves (Full List) ................................................ 50
      12.2        Appendix 2 – Noosa Environment Strategy – Relevant Themes & Outcomes ........ 59
      12.3        Appendix 3 – Reserve Prioritisation Methodology .................................................. 60
      12.4        Appendix 4 – Reserve Prioritisation Results & Tier Level ....................................... 68
      12.5        Appendix 5 – Allocated Reserve Management Category & Planning Mechanism... 73




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                                             Page 3

Section 5

List of Figures:

Figure 1 - Relationship between Environment Strategy and this document ..................................... 8
Figure 2 - Noosa Council Environment Planning Structure.............................................................. 9
Figure 3 - Legislative Drivers ........................................................................................................ 10
Figure 4 - Planning Drivers ........................................................................................................... 11
Figure 5 - Regional Ecosystems represented in Noosa bushland reserves ................................... 12
Figure 6 - EPBC Ecological Communities and Essential Habitat Statistics .................................... 13
Figure 7 - Reserve representation by Broad Vegetation Groups ................................................... 14
Figure 8 - Reserve representation within Catchments ................................................................... 16
Figure 9 - Cats Claw Creeper Vine is a high impact 'transformer weed' present on several Council
Reserves ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Figure 10 - Singapore Daisy is existent in a large percentage of Noosa's bushland reserves and
has its local origin as a garden escapee ....................................................................................... 20
Figure 11 - Priority Invasive Pest Species (transformer weeds) that impact upon Biodiversity
Values........................................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 12 - Dumping of garden waste within reserves remains a threat to bushland values .......... 23
Figure 13 - Tenure of Council-managed Bushland Reserves ........................................................ 25
Figure 14 - Bushland Care group activities contribute significantly to the management of many
bushland reserves......................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 15 - Community Tree Planting Day at Kin Kin Entrance Bushland Reserve 2017, a
component of a larger external grant acquired by Noosa Landcare for reserves in the Kin Kin area
..................................................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 16 - The Noosa bushland reserves management framework ............................................. 28
Figure 17 - Prioritisation Weighting ............................................................................................... 30
Figure 18 - Map showing prioritisation results .............................................................................. 31
Figure 19 - Decision Framework for Management Program Category and Planning Mechanism
allocation ...................................................................................................................................... 32
Figure 20 - Reserve Management Program Category and Planning Mechanism summary ........... 33
Figure 21 - BOA Condition Classes............................................................................................... 34
Figure 22 - Change in resilience condition at Heritage Park from 2010 to 2018 ............................ 36
Figure 23 - Annual Allocations - Levels of Service Table............................................................... 37
Figure 24 - Bushland Care Groups can be supported in a variety of ways and can enable valuable
local community engagement ....................................................................................................... 40
Figure 25 - Council staff and contractors need to become proficient at field-based electronic
recording of pest species and use of Council’s Pest Management Database ................................ 41
Figure 26 - Noosa Bushland Reserves Planning Framework ........................................................ 46
Figure 27 - Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Plan objectives, KPI's and measure .................. 47




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                                                 Page 4

Section 6

1. Introduction
Noosa Shire is internationally recognised as being a destination of choice for residents and visitors
alike. The shire contains extensive areas of natural bushland and areas of biodiversity value that
are of significance internationally.

Noosa shire entirely comprises the land areas of the Noosa Biosphere Reserve, making it an area
that is globally recognised as having outstanding environmental values, whilst achieving a
balanced relationship between humans and the environment.

The Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report commissioned by Noosa Council revealed that 55% of
the shire’s terrestrial area contains native vegetation, and that approximately one third of the shire
is under some form of protective tenure. These protected tenures include National Parks, Nature
Refuges, Voluntary Conservation Agreements and Council’s bushland reserves. These 178
Council bushland reserves cover a total area of 3,469 hectares and protect a remarkable range of
native ecosystems.

Noosa’s bushland reserves play an important role in protecting biodiversity, acting as wildlife
corridors between large core areas of native vegetation, contributing to good water quality in the
shire’s waterways, and providing residents and visitors with a range of nature-based recreational
opportunities. The community is very much engaged in the management of many of these
reserves, with an active Bushland Care program in place within the shire.

The Noosa Bushland Reserve Strategic Management Plan is the operational mechanism for the
implementation of several targets identified within the Noosa Environment Strategy. The Noosa
Bushland Reserve Network delivers values across all 4 themes of the Noosa Environment
Strategy, namely: Biodiversity; Waterways, Wetlands and Coasts; Sustainable Living; and, Climate
Change Adaptation and Resilience.

This Bushland Reserve Strategic Management Plan;
 describes the values and threats to biodiversity within Council’s bushland reserve network
 analyses tenure and protective status
 prioritises individual reserves for active management based on a set of values and feasibility of
   achieving reserve resilience
 provides a series of recommendations at both the planning and operational levels to achieve
   cost effective outcomes.


1.1    Council’s Bushland Reserve Network
Noosa Council’s bushland reserve estate is termed ‘network’ to acknowledge the interconnection
between land parcels in terms of movement of native animals and dissemination of plant pollen
and propagules. The complex (and largely unknown) patterns of wildlife movement on seasonal,
altitudinal and diurnal scales transcends reliance solely on protected areas as repositories for
biodiversity. Native vegetation within road reserves, and both rural and urban private properties
playing a major role as both habitat and corridors for native species.

A snapshot of the bushland reserve network’s biodiversity values indicate that the reserves:

   Contain 413 hectares of ‘Endangered’ and 1,345 hectares “Of Concern” Regional Ecosystems
    (Biodiversity Status under the Vegetation Management Act 1999).
   Protect a number of poorly-conserved Regional Ecosystems. For example the endangered
    rainforest community (Regional Ecosystem (RE) 12.5.13) at Cooroibah Conservation Park is
    one of the largest protected patches within the greater Sunshine Coast region of this poorly-
    conserved Commonwealth-listed Lowland Subtropical Rainforest.


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                  Page 5

Section 7

   Protects 100 hectares of Commonwealth-listed Critically Endangered Subtropical Lowland
    Rainforests of Australia ecological community and 63.3 hectares of Commonwealth-listed
    Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community.
   Provide habitat for a diverse range of State and Commonwealth listed native fauna and flora,
    including Boronia keysii, the Shire’s floral emblem.

Similar to other areas of native vegetation in south-east Queensland, Noosa Council’s bushland
reserve network is facing a number of pressures that threaten its biodiversity values. Many of the
reserves within Noosa Shire are degraded to some extent and will require a large amount of effort
to restore them to an ecologically resilient condition.

The key pressures on these biodiversity values are:
 Pest animals directly impacting on native fauna and flora populations;
 Invasive plants displacing native vegetation and transforming ecosystems;
 Nutrient and sediment pollution of waterways and wetlands with associated impacts on
   biodiversity;
 Inappropriate fire regimes. Insufficient fire activities to maintain the 88.5% fire adapted
   vegetation communities within reserves;
 Interference to vegetation from adjoining property owners;
 Impacts on reserve integrity from unauthorised recreational vehicle use;
 Wildlife/resident conflicts.


1.2    Reserve prioritisation
To ensure the shire’s bushland reserve network is managed to the highest standard possible, it is
necessary to prioritise where the finite resources are best allocated to achieve its objectives.

The prioritisation process used within this plan has addressed the biodiversity values (taken largely
from the Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report), waterway values, carbon sink values and social
values of each reserve. The feasibility for each reserve to be restored to an ecologically resilient
state, with consideration of realistic operational resource availability, is a particularly relevant
consideration and has been identified for each reserve as part of the preparation of this plan. This
and other data was determined by seeking the views of the Council Stakeholder Group who
manage the entirety of the bushland reserve network and hold in-depth knowledge of the majority
of reserves.

The philosophy behind prioritising reserves for their feasibility to recover recognises that it is best
and most cost-efficient to manage the more ecologically resilient reserves first, as better
biodiversity outcomes can be achieved with the limited program resourcing available to manage
the reserve estate. Implicit in this philosophy is the reality that some of the smaller highly-degraded
reserves in urban areas, while still possessing some biodiversity, waterway and social values, may
not be able to be restored to an ecologically resilient condition in the near future.


1.3    Purpose of the Plan
The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026 (The Plan) outlines the
values and management issues within Council’s bushland reserve network.

The Plan provides recommendations as to how Council should manage its bushland reserve
network over the next five years to achieve the bushland reserve network’s objectives as
presented in section 2. In addition to refining and defining the management planning framework for
the Natural Areas Program, three reserve management program categories (‘Protect’, ‘Enhance’,
and ‘Monitor’) have been allocated to the prioritised reserves with associated planning
documentation required identified.


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                   Page 6

Section 8

It is intended that the Plan will provide an over-arching plan for all Council owned and managed
Bushland Reserves, and establish clear and consistent management objectives for all issues that
relate to or impact upon Noosa’s bushland reserve values for the next five years.



2. Vision & Objectives
2.1    Council’s Vision for Noosa Bushland Reserves Network
The Noosa Bushland Reserve Strategic Management Plan is the operational mechanism for the
implementation of several targets identified within the Noosa Environment Strategy. The Noosa
Environment Strategy sets the ‘big picture’ for our environment and sustainability across all plans
and subsequent implementation documents. The Noosa Bushland Reserve Network will deliver
outcomes across all of the 4 themes of the Noosa Environment Strategy being Biodiversity;
Waterways, Wetlands and Coasts; Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience; and Sustainable
living.

The following vision statement provides an overarching framework for driving the management of
Noosa Council’s bushland reserves network:

“Council’s Bushland Reserve Network is protected, enhanced and valued by the Noosa
community for its natural, cultural and social values.”



2.2    Noosa Bushland Reserve Network’s Objectives
The principal objectives listed below contribute towards achieving the Noosa bushland reserves
network vision.

1. Protect and improve biodiversity values within the bushland reserve network using best
   practice management.

2. Contribute towards improvement of water quality within the Noosa River, Mary River and
   coastal creek catchments.

3. Identify and protect Indigenous and European cultural heritage sites within the bushland
   reserve network.

4. Develop and foster partnerships with the community.

5. Manage hazardous vegetation, bushfire, flooding and pest species within the bushland reserve
   network according to Council’s policies, plans, risk appetite and legislative requirements.

6. Provide opportunities for outdoor recreational activities that are compatible and complementary
   with natural and cultural heritage values within the bushland reserve network.

7. Work with bushland reserve neighbours to achieve mutually beneficial biodiversity and
   community safety outcomes.

8. Identify and implement carbon sequestration and preservation activities within the bushland
   reserve network.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                 Page 7

Section 9

Figure 1 shows the Noosa Bushland Reserve Network Objectives and how they relate to the
outcomes of the Noosa Environment Strategy.

 Ref#    Objective                                              Noosa Environment Strategy 2019 Outcomes

         Protect and improve biodiversity values within the
     1   bushland reserve network using best practice           Biodiversity- B, D, E, F and G
         management.
         Contribute towards improvement of water quality
     2   within the Noosa River, Mary River, Maroochy           Waterways, wetlands and coasts- A, B, D, H & I
         River and coastal creek catchments.
         Identify and protect Indigenous and European
     3                                                          Biodiversity- E. Waterways, wetlands and coasts- A
         cultural heritage sites within the reserve network.
         Develop and foster partnerships with the
     4                                                          Biodiversity- E. Waterways, wetlands and coasts- A
         community.
         Manage hazardous vegetation, bushfire, flooding
         and pest species within the reserve network
                                                                Biodiversity- G. Climate change adaptation and
     5   according to Council’s policies, plans, risk
                                                                resilience-B, D and F
         management procedures and legislative
         requirements.
         Provide opportunities for outdoor recreational
         activities that are compatible and complementary
     6                                                          N/A
         with natural and cultural heritage values within the
         reserve network.
         Work with bushland reserve neighbours to achieve
     7   mutually beneficial biodiversity and community         Biodiversity- E. Waterways, wetlands and coasts- A
         safety outcomes.
         Identify and implement carbon sequestration and
     8                                                          Sustainable living- A
         preservation activities within the reserve network.
Figure 1 - Relationship between Environment Strategy and this document




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                    Page 8

Section 10

3. Statutory & Strategic Obligations
The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021– 2026 sits under the Noosa
Environment Strategy and complements and fulfils a large range of local, regional, state, national
and international plans, strategies, charters, agreements and statutory obligations.

The Plan will have particularly strong links and implementation relevance to the following strategic
documents:
 Conservation Land Guideline
 Climate Change Response Plan (currently in draft)
 Noosa River Plan (currently in draft)
 Coastal Management Plan (not yet developed)
 Biosecurity Plan
 Bushland Reserve Strategic Fire Management Plan
 Koala Conservation Plan

Figure 2 provides an outline of the Noosa Council Environmental Planning Framework.




Figure 2 - Noosa Council Environment Planning Structure




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                 Page 9

Section 11

3.1          Legislative Drivers
The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026 and on-ground actions
within the bushland reserves program require compliance with the following legislation.

     Level Legislation

              Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
  National




              Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003
              Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1998
              Biosecurity Act 2014
              Coastal Protection and Management Act 1995
              Environmental Offset Act 2014
              Environmental Protection Act 1994
              Fire and Rescue Service Act 1990
  State




              Nature Conservation Act 1992;
              Land Act 1994
              Local Government Act 2009 (QLD) (LGA 2009)
              SEQ Regional Plan 2009 – 2031
              Planning Act 2016 & Planning Regulation 2017 (Schedule 10) - including Koala impacts.
              State Planning Policy July 2017 & State Interest Guidelines (various)
              Vegetation Management Act 2009
              Water Act 2000
              State Planning Policy 2/10 Koala Conservation in SEQ
              Noosa Council Planning Scheme 2020
  Local




              Priority Infrastructure Plan (Local Government Infrastructure Plan)

Figure 3 - Legislative Drivers



3.2          Planning Drivers
The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Plan 2020 2021 – 2025 2026 aligns with and
complements a multitude of local, state, national and international non-legislative policies, plans
and strategies. The principal policies, plans and strategies that influence the Plan are detailed
below.

 Level         Document                    Direct Mention or Direct Relevance to Noosa Bushland Reserves
                                           Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026
               Numerous Threatened         Actions contained within Recovery Plans and Conservation Advice
               Species and Ecological      Statements, particularly on-ground actions have direct implementation
               Community National          through reserve management operations.
               Recovery Plans and
               Conservation Advice         Reserves that have identified EPBC listed species and/or ecological
  National




               Statements registered       communities will require special consideration of Recovery Plan and
               under the Environmental     Conservation Advice Statement recommendations during Reserve
               Protection and              Management Plan and Ecological Restoration Plan development.
               Biodiversity Conservation
               Act 1999.                   Commonwealth Government biodiversity investment is directed primarily
                                           towards actions that address threats to EPBC listed species & ecological
                                           communities.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                    Page 10

Section 12

 Level      Document                       Direct Mention or Direct Relevance to Noosa Bushland Reserves
                                           Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026
            Back On Track actions for      The Back On Track framework identifies various actions (Planning,
            biodiversity : taking action   Research, On-ground, Community Capacity Building) that relate to prioritised
            to achieve species             fauna and flora species. Actions for each species should be addressed within
 State




            conservation in the South      Management Plans at the reserve level where applicable.
            East Queensland Natural
            Resource Management
            Region 2010
            Burnett Mary NRM and           The BM NRM plan provides actions and targets relevant to natural bushland
            Climate Adaptation Plan        across the Burnett Mary region. Actions contained within the plan are both
 Regional




            2015                           relevant to on-ground works within the reserves but also provide potential
                                           opportunity for additional financial resourcing for on-ground works.
            South East Queensland          The SEQ NRM plan provides actions and targets relevant to natural bushland
            Natural Resource               across the SEQ region. Actions contained within the plan are both relevant to
            Management (SEQ NRM)           on-ground works within the reserves but also provide potential opportunity for
            Plan 2014 —2031                additional financial resourcing for on-ground works.
            Noosa Council Corporate        The Corporate Plan has set a 20 year goal for environmental outcomes and
            Plan 2017-2037                 has set a 5 year goal for actions within Key Focus Areas. One goal is to
                                           develop the Environment Strategy and Subordinate plans and strategies.
            Noosa Council                  The Environment Strategy provides the overarching guidance for the
            Environment Strategy           development and implementation of a broad range of environment-related
            2019                           plans that contain many of the detailed actions, responsibilities and
                                           timeframes for delivery.
            Noosa Cultural Plan 2019       The Noosa Cultural Plan identified Indigenous Cultural Heritage as a priority
            - 2023                         focus area stating that Council will work with Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi first
                                           nation’s people to increase the awareness and understanding of our local
                                           indigenous cultural heritage. The Bushland Reserve Strategic Plan contains
                                           an objective stating the above.
            Noosa Council                  The Environment Levy Policy outlines the environmental and administrative
            Environment Levy Policy        principles that will provide direction for the allocation of Environment Levy
            20198                          funds by Council. This has strong integration with the Bushland Reserve
                                           Strategic Management Plan with land acquisition and Environmental Grants
                                           program initiatives.
            Noosa Council Open             Whilst not an Action Plan, the Study has strong links and integration with the
            Space Study 2017               Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan and is the guiding document
                                           for the generation of new reserves through the auditing and development
                                           assessment process.
            Noosa Local Government         The Biosecurity Plan contains Noosa Council’s strategic actions for the
            Area Draft Biosecurity         management of high priority pest plants and animals within the Noosa Shire
            Plan 2019-2024                 Area.
 Local




                                           Several Actions with direct application to the Noosa Bushland Reserves
                                           Strategic Management Plan exist within the Plan. Relevant priorities,
                                           objectives and actions have been directly integrated into the Plan Actions
                                           listed in Section 10 of this Plan.
            Climate Change                 The Climate Change Response Plan identifies healthy and resilient natural
            Response Plan                  systems and carbon sequestration as a theme and strategic priority.
            Noosa Bushland Reserve         The Noosa Bushland Reserve Strategic Fire Management Plan has identified
            Strategic Fire                 priority reserves based on a risk assessment basis. This document refines
            Management Plan                priorities and resources for specific fire management activities. While this
                                           plan is relevant, an alternate fire management planning arrangement is
                                           recommended within this plan moving forward.
            Noosa Shire Koala              The Noosa Shire Koala Conservation Plan identified a number of actions that
            Conservation Plan 2016         have direct implementation within the bushland reserve network planning and
                                           implementation process.
            Noosa Coastal Hazards          The Noosa Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan is a subset plan from the
            Adaptation Plan                Climate Change Response Plan. This plan identifies areas impacted by
                                           Storm Tide inundation and Sea Level Rise
            Tree Management on             This policy applies to all Council public land including parks, road reserves
            Public Land Policy 2018        and other council owned land including community facilities. The policy
                                           states: i) Trees are valuable assets and must be managed accordingly; ii)
                                           Council maintains a general commitment to the sustainable management of
                                           trees on public land and also the greening of open space; and iii)
                                           Unavoidable removal of trees from public land may be offset with planting to
                                           ensure there is no net loss of trees on Council controlled land.
                                           Offset Sites are likely to be within the Bushland Reserve Network.
Figure 4 - Planning Drivers




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                    Page 11

Section 13

4. Bushland Reserve Values
Within Noosa Council’s bushland reserve network there exists a range of values that are highly
regarded by the Noosa community.                            Figure 5 - Regional Ecosystems represented
                                                               in Noosa bushland reserves

4.1    Biodiversity values
Biodiversity values within Noosa Shire have been recently
documented in the Noosa Biodiversity Plan. Key values are
summarised as:

     Approximately 55% of the shire is covered in native
      vegetation (46.8% classified remnant (Eco Logical
      2016), with >40,000 ha in remnant condition.
     A diverse range of vegetation communities, which
      can be classified into 61 Regional Ecosystems (REs).
      While Noosa Shire comprises 3.9% of the total area
      of SEQ, it contains representations of 39% of the
      REs that can occur in the bioregion. Refer Figure 5.
     Unique ecosystems including rare sub-tropical
      examples of patterned fens, coastal lagoon systems,
      sand lakes and dune systems.
     A number of ecological communities, flora and fauna
      species that are recognised and protected under
      state and federal environmental law, including the
      critically endangered lowland rainforest community.
     A large diversity of wildlife and plants (~1,340 species
      of plants and 348 species of terrestrial vertebrate
      animals). At least 217 species of birds, 45 species of
      reptiles, 55 species of mammals, and 31 species of
      frogs are known from the area. This includes
      endemic species and Gondwanan relicts.
     Habitat for key and iconic fauna species including
      Koala, Glossy Black-Cockatoo, Water Mouse,
      Ground Parrot, Coxen’s Fig Parrot, acid frogs,
      Cooloola Blind Snake, sea turtles, migratory
      shorebird species, Mary River Cod and Australian
      Lungfish.
     Critical habitats, including internationally recognised
      migratory bird habitats of conservation importance,
      and sea turtle nesting sites.
     A highly connected network of core habitat areas
      from a diverse cross-section of ecosystem types and
      altitudinal ranges.
     The healthiest river system in the SEQ region.
     A network of diverse wetlands which are in good ecological condition and encompass over
      16,000 ha. Many are recognised as being of national or state significance.
     An extensive protected reserve system that plays a critical role in conservation management
      across the SEQ region. Over one third of the shire is covered by protected reserves, the
      largest being Great Sandy National Park.


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                  Page 12

Section 14

Further information of the above values protected in Council’s bushland reserve network is
presented in Figure 6.

Figure 6 - EPBC Ecological Communities and Essential Habitat Statistics

                                                              Number of Reserves   Total Area (ha)
 EPBC Ecological communities*                                 45                   163.63
 EPBC ecological communities include: 12.1.1, 12.3.1,
 12.3.20, 12.5.13, 12.11.10 12.1.1 and 12.1.2



 Essential Habitat                                            114                  2039.99




 Bushland Reserve Biodiversity Profile:
 Pinaroo Park

 This small 6.2 hectare reserve at Noosa Junction preserves a coastal waterbody that provides habitat for
 a number of frog species. Black She Oaks (Allocasuarina littoralis) within Pinaroo Park are preferred
 feed trees for the vulnerable Glossy Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) which are regularly seen
 there. Pinaroo Park also contains habitat for Koala’s (Phascolarctos cinereus) and Grey-headed Flying
 Foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus). Pinaroo Park is a mixture of recreational mown areas and bushland,
 and is highly valued by the local community.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                        Page 13

Section 15

Figure 7 - Reserve representation by Broad Vegetation Groups

Broad Vegetation BVG Description                                                                                                      Total Area
     Group                                                                                                                               (ha)

      2a         Complex evergreen mesophyll-notophyll vine forest frequently with Araucaria cunninghamii (hoop pine) from               8.16
                 foothills to ranges. (land zones 11, 12, 8) (WET, SEQ, CQC) (Tracey 1982 2a)
      4a         Notophyll and mesophyll vine forest with feather of fan palms in alluvia and in swampy situations on ranges or          1.04
                 within coastal san masses. (land zones 3, 11, 12, 2) (SEQ, WET, CQC, CYP) (Tracey 1982 2b,3b, 3c)
      4b         Evergreen to semi-deciduous mesophyll to notophyll vine forest, frequently with Archontophoenix spp.                   62.79
                 (palms) fringing streams. (land zones 3, [10]) (CYP, SEQ, WET, CQC, GUP) (Tracey 1982 1c)
      5a         Araucarian notophyll/microphyll and microphyll vine forests of southern coastal bioregions. (land zones 8, 11,         38.84
                 5, 9) (SEQ)
      8a         Wet tall open forest dominated by species such as Eucalyptus grandis (flooded gum) or E. saligna, E. resinifera        333.2
                 (red mahogany), Lophostemon confertus (brush box), Syncarpia glomulifera (turpentine), E. laevopinea
                 (silvertop stringybark). Contains a well-developed understorey of rainforest components, including ferns and
                 palms, or the understorey may be dominated by sclerophyll shrubs. (land zones 12, 8, 10, 11, 3, 5, 9, 2) (SEQ,
                 WET, BRB, CQC, [NET])
      8b         Moist open forests to tall open forests mostly dominated by Eucalyptus pilularis (blackbutt) on coastal sands,         76.66
                 sub-coastal sandstones and basalt ranges. Also includes tall open forests dominated by E. montivaga, E.
                 obliqua (messmate stringybark) and E. campanulata (New England ash). (land zones 12, 9, 11, 2, 5, 8) (SEQ,
                 [CQC])
      9a         Moist eucalypt open forests to woodlands dominated by a variety of species including Eucalyptus siderophloia           22.05
                 (red ironbark), E. propinqua (small-fruited grey gum), E. acmenoides (narrow-leaved white stringybark), E.
                 microcorys (tallowwood), E. carnea (broad-leaved white mahogany), E. tindaliae (Queensland white
                 stringybark), Corymbia intermedia (pink bloodwood), Lophostemon confertus (brush box). (land zones 11, 12, 9-
                 10, 5, 8) (SEQ)
      9f         Woodlands dominated by Corymbia spp. e.g.: C. intermedia (pink bloodwood), C. tessellaris (Moreton Bay ash)            95.04
                 and/or Eucalyptus spp. such as E. tereticornis (blue gum), frequently with Banksia spp., Acacia spp. and Callitris
                 columellaris (Bribie Island pine) on coastal dunes and beach ridges. (land zone 2) (SEQ)
      9g         Moist to dry woodlands to open forest dominated by stringybarks or mahoganies such as Eucalyptus tindaliae             377.44
                 (Queensland white stringybark), E. latisinensis (white mahogany), E. acmenoides (narrow-leaved white
                 stringybark); or E. racemosa (scribbly gum) or E. seeana or E. tereticornis (blue gum) and Corymbia intermedia
                 (pink bloodwood). (land zone 5, 12, 9-10, 2, 11, [8, 3]) (SEQ)
      9h         Dry woodlands dominated by species such as Eucalyptus acmenoides (narrow-leaved white stringybark) (or E.               5.2
                 portuensis), E. tereticornis (blue gum), Angophora leiocarpa (rusty gum), Corymbia trachyphloia (yellow
                 bloodwood) or C. intermedia (pink bloodwood), and often ironbarks including E. crebra (narrow-leaved red
                 ironbark) or E. fibrosa (dusky-leaved ironbark). A heathy shrub layer is frequently present. On undulating to
                 hilly terrain. (land zones 12, 9-10, 11, [8, 5]) (SEQ, BRB)
      10b        Moist open forests to woodlands dominated by Corymbia citriodora (spotted gum). (land zones 12, 11, 9, 5, 8)            10.3
                 (SEQ, CQC, EIU, WET)
      12a        Dry woodlands to open woodlands dominated by ironbarks such as Eucalyptus decorticans (gum-topped                       1.73
                 ironbark), E. fibrosa subsp. nubila (blue-leaved ironbark), or E. crebra (narrow-leaved red ironbark) and/or
                 bloodwoods such as Corymbia trachyphloia (yellow bloodwood), C. leichhardtii (rustyjacket), C. watsoniana
                 (Watson's yellow bloodwood), C. lamprophylla, C. peltata (yellowjacket). Occasionally E. thozetiana (mountain
                 yapunyah), E. cloeziana (Gympie messmate) or E. mediocris are dominant. Mostly on sub-coastal/inland hills
                 with shallow soils. (land zones 10, 7, 9 [11]) (BRB, DEU, SEQ, GUP)
      16c        Woodlands and open woodlands dominated by Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah) or E. microtheca (coolabah) or                12.24
                 E. largiflorens (black box) or E. tereticornis (blue gum) or E. chlorophylla on floodplains. Does not include
                 alluvial areas dominated by herb and grasslands or alluvial plains that are not flooded. (land zone 3) (All
                 bioregions except WET, principally GUP, BRB, MUL, SEQ)
      22a        Open forests and woodlands dominated by Melaleuca quinquenervia (swamp paperbark) in seasonally                       822.99
                 inundated lowland coastal areas and swamps. (land zones 3, 2, 1, [11]) (SEQ, WET, CQC, CYP, [BRB])
      28a        Complex of open shrubland to closed shrubland, grassland, low woodland and open forest, on strand and                  127.97
                 foredunes. Includes pure stands of Casuarina equisetifolia (coastal sheoak). (land zones 2, 1) (GUP, SEQ, BRB,
                 CYP, [WET, CQC])
      29a        Open heaths and dwarf open heaths on coastal dunefields, sandplains and headlands. (land zones 5, 2, 3, 7, 10,        328.65
                 [12, 11]) (CYP, SEQ, [WET])
      34c        Palustrine wetlands. Freshwater swamps on coastal floodplains dominated by sedges and grasses such as                  36.15
                 Oryza spp., Eleocharis spp. (spikerush) or Baloskion spp. (cord rush) / Leptocarpus tenax / Gahnia sieberiana
                 (sword grass) / Lepironia spp. (land zones 3, 2, 1) (CYP, GUP, BRB, SEQ, WET, [CQC])
      35a        Closed forests and low closed forests dominated by mangroves. (land zone 1) (CYP, GUP, BRB, SEQ, WET,                  153.11
                 CQC)
      35b        Bare saltpans ± areas of Tecticornia spp. (samphire) sparse forbland and/or Xerochloa imberbis or Sporobolus           28.08
                 virginicus (sand couch) tussock grassland. (land zone 1, [3]) (GUP, BRB, CYP, SEQ, CQC, [WET])
    TOTAL                                                                                                                              2541.64

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                                         Page 14

Section 16

4.2    Ecosystem Services Values
Ecosystem Services are the goods and services freely delivered by ecosystems that contribute to
the environmental, social and economic well-being of the Noosa community, and to the well-being
of the national and global community. These services are classified in accordance with
Classification of Ecosystem Services by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA. 2005), and
are as follows:

1.    Regulating services: benefits obtained from the regulation of ecosystem processes such as water
      regulation, erosion regulation, waste regulation, climate regulation and natural hazard regulation
      (e.g. droughts, floods, and storms).

2.    Supporting services: those that are necessary for the production of all other ecosystem services.
      They differ from provisioning, regulating, and cultural services in that their impacts on people are
      often indirect or occur over a very long time, whereas changes in the other categories have
      relatively direct and short-term impacts on people. Some services, like erosion regulation, can be
      categorised as both a supporting and a regulating service, depending on the time- scale and
      immediacy of their impact on people. Supporting services include primary production, nutrient
      cycling and water cycling.

3.    Provisioning services: products obtained from ecosystems, e.g. fresh water, food, fibre, fuel,
      genetic resources, biochemical, natural medicines and pharmaceuticals.

4.    Cultural services: non-material benefits people obtain from ecosystems through spiritual
      enrichment, cognitive development, reflection, recreation, and aesthetic experiences, e.g. cultural
      diversity, knowledge systems, educational values, social relations, sense of place, cultural heritage
      and ecotourism.

The values these ecosystems provide are a key reason for creating a network of environmental
reserves throughout the Noosa Shire. Without our reserve network, and those of other agencies
such as national parks, some of these ecosystem services would be lost to the Noosa community.
This includes the role or riparian vegetation in reducing erosion and keeping our rivers clean, or the
role of coastal foredunes is providing a green buffer to the impacts of climate change.

While the provision of these services is greatly enhanced by having retained habitat in a bushland
reserve network, the relative values of these services provided are not always the first
consideration when allocating resources in the management of the reserve network that is already
in place. This is because some of these values can contradict each other. For example, weed
encroachment into environments can reduce biodiversity values significantly, but at the same time
they can provide similar services in areas like water filtration or dune stabilisation. As a result, for
prioritisation of day-to-day management, ecosystem services are considered as a subset of the
biodiversity outcomes sought by this plan.

A focus on “likelihood of success” within this plan is intended to provide a long-term improvement
in ecosystem condition and, by extension, the quality of ecosystem services. While priority
reserves are worked though, a triage approach is taken to the remaining network with annual
inspections and management of emerging issues, such as new weed species with a high
probability of impact.

Some specific examples of Ecosystem Services that Council’s bushland reserve network
contribute to include but are not limited to catchment values, recreational values, landscape and
scenic amenity values and climate change amelioration.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                           Page 15

Section 17

4.2.1          Catchment Values
The Noosa River system has the highest water quality rating of all SEQ waterways. Together with
the extensive Cooloola National Park, Council’s bushland reserve network contributes to this high
water quality by protecting riparian vegetation along waterways, maintaining bank stability, and
contributing to reduced sediment load entering the Noosa River.

The Noosa River catchment comprises approximately 63% of the shire while approximately 36% of
the Shire is within the Mary River catchment. Waterways such as Six Mile Creek have intact
riparian vegetation and contribute to reduced sediment flows into the Mary River system. A number
of bushland reserves also protect coastal waterways such as on Noosa North Shore and the
coastal strip south of Noosa Heads to the shire boundary.

Council has a number of reserves within each broad catchment area as outlined in Figure 8.

Figure 8 - Reserve representation within Catchments

                                                                    2
 Noosa Shire Catchments            Number of          Total Area (m )      % of Total Area
                                   Reserves
 Noosa River                       117                29699224.23          84.21%
 Maroochy River                    5                  453888.20            1.43%
 Mary River Sub-                   56                 4539617.97           14.36%
 catchments
 TOTAL                             178                34692730.42          100%




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                Page 16

Section 18

Bushland Reserve Biodiversity Profile:
Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserves.

Six Mile Creek is a tributary of the Mary River System. The headwaters commence in the vicinity of Mt Cooroy,
Black Mountain, and Mt Pinbarren. The Mt Cooroy tributary feeds into Lake Macdonald, a potable water supply
for Noosa Shire and SEQ. Although subject to large scale clearing for agriculture in the early 1900’s, riparian
vegetation along Six Mile Creek and its tributaries is today largely intact throughout much of the catchment and
is mostly mapped as remnant Regional ecosystems 12.3.1 and 12.3.2. Six Mile Creek is a significant
stronghold for the endangered Mary River Cod (Maccullochella mariensis) due to the presence of intact
riparian vegetation, deep pools containing large woody debris, and good water quality. The system is also
habitat for listed frog species such as the endangered Giant Barred Frog (Mixophyes iterates). Council
manages a network of reserves along the Six Mile Creek System, including the Yellow Belly Hole at Cooran.
This reserve has been actively managed for invasive weeds (mainly Small leaved Privet, Camphor Laurel, and
Cats Claw Vine) since 1998 in partnership with Noosa Landcare, and in 2017 exhibits resilience and
represents a good example of intact riparian rainforest and adjoining wet sclerophyll tall open forest.




Photo Credit – Giant Barred Frog (Eva Ford)




4.2.2          Recreational Values
A diversity of recreational opportunities exist within the bushland reserve network. These include
bushwalking, horse riding, mountain biking, birdwatching and botany walks. These activities are
well utilised by the community. The bushland reserves network contains a number of urban
reserves that contain mown parks and pathways and are valued by local residents for recreation.
Numerous bushland reserves also include sections of the Noosa Trail Network. This provides
further nature based low impact recreation activities for the Noosa hinterland.


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                        Page 17

Section 19

4.2.3       Landscape and Scenic Amenity Values
The Noosa community values the natural look and feel of the shire. This is a result of Council
planning for its built environment, and the large amount (relative to SEQ) of vegetated land
remaining within the shire. This is 55% compared to 35.5% for the remainder of the South East
Queensland local government areas (SEQC 2016). Council’s bushland reserve network
contributes to this sense of natural space by protecting scenic vistas such as vegetated fore dunes,
waterways and ridgelines.
4.2.4       Climate Change Amelioration
Being a coastal shire, Noosa is particularly exposed to the predicted impacts of climate change.
These impacts are summarised as:
 Increased coastal erosion, coastal hazards, and extensive inundation from sea level rise;
 More frequent mass die off of vegetation and vulnerable flora and fauna;
 Loss of rainforest and expansion of eucalypt forests resulting in greater intensity, spread and
   frequency of bushfires;
 Loss of saltmarshes and swamps from sea level rise;
 Reduction or loss of native folivores from increased CO2 levels in foliage;
 Increased frequency and intensity of flood events;
 More disturbance to native ecosystems leading to an increase in weed incursions.

Bushland reserves will play an important role in buffering the effects of climate change both
physically (temperature regulation, stability for ‘at-risk’ landscapes) and through carbon storage
and capture. They can provide refugia during adverse climatic events (such as riparian areas
during a prolonged drought), and as potential dispersal corridors for fauna (and flora propagules)
as species retreat or retract to less impacted areas.

In Coastal areas this will be particularly important, where vegetation coverage will support frontal
dune stabilisation. The draft Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan and (not yet developed) Coastal
Foreshore Management Plan will assist in guiding management actions in the future. This will
provide further direction in management of the foreshore coastal zone for the purposes of
maintaining the environmental values of the dunes. While this will provide some asset protection to
properties, there are other actions that may be required, beyond the scope of a bushland
management plan, to ensure resilience against climate change impacts where the placement of
assets make retreat a difficult option.
4.3     Cultural & Historical Values
Both European and Aboriginal cultural values are present within the bushland reserve network.
European cultural and historical values include historical relicts such as early European built
structures, tree stumps with springboard scars, and commemorative (early 19th century) trees
such as pine and camphor laurel trees. Evidence of Aboriginal occupation of the reserve network
includes scar trees, artefacts, bora rings and shell middens.

Aboriginal peoples have been environmental stewards of the Noosa region and still maintain a
deep relationship today with the biodiversity, waterways and wetlands of the area. Noosa’s natural
environment has been integral to the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) people’s cultural values, customs
and spiritual beliefs.

In relation to the identification of sites of significance, Council refers in the first instance to the
‘Indigenous Cultural Heritage Study of Noosa Shire 2004 and Sunshine Coast Council 2009,
Sunshine Coast Cultural Heritage Background Study.

As identified in The Noosa Cultural Plan, Indigenous Cultural Heritage is a priority focus area
stating that Council will work with Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi first nation’s people to increase the
awareness and understanding of our local indigenous cultural heritage.

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                        Page 18

Section 20

 Bushland Reserve Biodiversity Profile:
 Cooroibah Conservation Park

  This 162 hectare reserve comprises a number of freehold properties purchased under Council’s
  Environment Levy land acquisition program since 2006 and is located between Lake Cooroibah,
  Cooroibah Creek, and Lake Cooroibah Road. There is a remarkable diversity of vegetation communities
  present within this reserve, from scribbly gum woodland, blue gum woodland, mixed eucalypt woodland,
  melaleuca wetland, mangroves, saltmarsh, one of the best examples of cabbage palm/flooded gum tall
  open forest in Noosa Shire, and a rare form of rainforest growing on weathered sandstone. The reserve
  has very high floral diversity, with the vulnerable species Hairy Hazelwood (Symplocos harroldii) present
  in good numbers. The woodland areas contain many eucalypt species exhibiting hollow formation critical
  for hollow dependant fauna species.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                       Page 19

Section 21

5. Pressures on the Bushland Reserve
   Network
5.1     Invasive Species
The Noosa Biosecurity Plan 2019 has identified invasive
species, a large number of which have their origin as
garden escapees, and management actions across the
Shire. Similar to other areas of SEQ, a large number of
invasive plants are threatening biodiversity values and the
bushland reserve network, with those reserves in peri-
urban/urban areas generally more impacted from escaped
garden plants.

This plan has prioritised a number of key invasive plant
species that are considered to be “transformer weeds”.
These species have the capacity to alter and dominate
native vegetation strata, whether it be Cats Claw Creeper
(Dolichandra unguis–cati) destroying the canopy of
mature rainforest or Singapore Daisy (Sphagneticola
trilobata) dominating the ground strata and preventing
recruitment and establishment of native plants.

Figure 11 lists transformer weeds and their impact
potential. This list was developed by an Internal
Stakeholder Group based on their long-term local
operational experience in the Noosa area.


                                                                      Figure 9 - Cats Claw Creeper Vine is a high impact
                                                                      'transformer weed' present on several Council Reserves

                                                                Less visually obvious but equally as
                                                                damaging is the impact of pest animals on
                                                                native fauna populations, with listed species
                                                                such as Ground Parrots (Pezoporus
                                                                wallicus) being impacted by foxes and feral
                                                                cats. Similarly wild dog predation on Koalas
                                                                (Phascolarctos cinereus) is considered a
                                                                key threat to Koala populations in SE Qld.



Figure 10 - Singapore Daisy is existent in a large percentage
of Noosa's bushland reserves and has its local origin as a
garden escapee




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                             Page 20

Section 22

Figure 11 - Priority Invasive Pest Species (transformer weeds) that impact upon Biodiversity Values

  Species                             Common name            Comments

                                                   PEST PLANTS
  Anredera cordifolia                 Madeira Vine           Invasive vine, smothers canopy, easily spread
  Aristolochia elegans                Dutchman’s Pipe        Smothers canopy, impacts on Richmond Birdwing
                                                             butterfly
  Asparagus aethiopicus               Basket Asparagus       Dominates ground strata in dunal areas, prevents
                                                             native plant recruitment
  Cinnamomum camphora                 Camphor Laurel         Can dominate tree canopy, forming a monoculture.
                                                             Evidence of rapid spread in Eucalypt forests in the
                                                             area.
  Gloriosa superba                    Glory Lily             Dominates ground cover in dunal areas
  Hygrophila costata                  Glush Weed             Dominates ground strata in riparian areas.

  Ipomoea cairica                     Coastal Mile-a-        Invasive vine, smothers ground and shrub strata
                                      minute (Coastal        and limits native species recruitment
                                      Morning Glory)
  Ipomoea indica                      Morning Glory          Invasive vine, smothers canopy

  Ligustrum sinense                   Small Leaved Privet    Can dominate mid strata in riparian areas.
  Macfadyena unguis -cati             Cats Claw Creeper      Invasive vine, smothers canopy, easily spread

  Passiflora suberosa                 Corky Passionfruit     Invasive vine, smothers ground and shrub strata
                                                             and limits native species recruitment
  Salvinia molesta                    Salvinia               Dominates non flowing water bodies
  Schinus terebinthifolius            Broad Leaf Pepper      Can dominate in rear dunal areas

  Sphagneticola trilobata             Singapore Daisy        Dominates ground strata, prevents native plant
                                                             recruitment
  Thunbergia spp.                     Thunbergia             Invasive vine, smothers canopy

                                                   PEST ANIMALS
  Acridotheras tristis                Common Myna            Impacts on native birds

  Canis familiaris                    Dogs (both wild        High impact on native animals, ie Koalas
                                      and domestic)
  Felis catus                         Cat                    High impact on small native animals

  Sus scrofula                        Feral Pig              Disturbance to wetland areas, spread plant disease
                                                             and weeds
  Vulpes vulpes                       European Fox           High impact on small native animals




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                  Page 21

Section 23

5.2    Fire
Many native ecosystems within Noosa are fire adapted, which in the absence of a suitable fire
regime may reduce species (both floral and faunal) diversity. Council’s bushland reserves contain
88.5% of fire adapted vegetation communities, with rainforest, saltmarsh and mangrove
communities being the only native vegetation communities that haven’t evolved to tolerate fire.

All other vegetation communities require fire of a certain frequency, intensity and time of year to
maintain the assemblage of flora and fauna species typical of that community. For example, in the
absence of fire heathland can become dominated by tall shrubs such as Hakea actites and trees
such as Melaleuca quinquenervia with resultant loss of habitat for threatened species such as
Ground Parrots (Pezoporus wallicus) and Christmas Bells (Blandfordia grandiflora).

In the absence of fire and in Noosa’s wet climate, dry sclerophyll eucalypt forests can become
dominated by rainforest species. The resultant increased shade and moist microclimate under the
rainforest canopy limits recruitment of eucalypt species. In the longer term this leads to a loss of
eucalypt trees and associated habitat for the range of fauna species dependant on it.

In contrast, some reserves adjacent to urban areas, such as Girraween Nature Refuge, have
experienced arson incidents on a too frequent basis and at the wrong time of the year (usually
October to December). This fire regime has had impacts on native plant diversity as obligate
seeding plants are unable to flower and set seed before the next fire.

Fire risk in Council’s bushland reserve network is managed through the Noosa Bushland Reserve
Strategic Fire Management Plan 2021-2026, that has are two main objectives;
 Mitigate risks to life and property
 Maintain the ecology of fire dependant ecosystems

It is not possible to initiate fire management actions for all bushland reserves at once. A
prioritisation methodology will be developed for each objective. In some cases management
actions will be complimentary for both community risk management and ecological outcomes. In
other cases the actions will be quite distinct.

The State Planning Policy (SPP) Bushfire Prone mapping identifies priority areas at a state wide
level. The CSIRO developed the methodology based on vegetation type fuel load, slope and fire
weather severity. The mapping identifies areas of medium, high and very fire hazard. The State
mapping provides the strategic direction for prioritising fire management across the bushland reserve
network.

The Noosa Bushland Reserve Strategic Fire Management Plan 2021-2026 also reviews the
condition of existing fire trails and propose new fire trails where required, as an effective fire trail
network is a key action in the plan.
The development of fire trail and fuel reduction zone standards will guide Natural Areas staff and
improve emergency response.


5.3    Nutrient Pollution
Reserves within the coastal area have sandy soils of low fertility. In these environments native
plants have evolved to cope with low nutrient levels, particularly phosphorous. Impacts from human
activities such as sewerage treatment outflow and stormwater runoff from urban areas within the
coastal catchments, has led to nutrient enrichment (eutrophication) within many coastal waterways
and adjacent riparian areas. This has favoured the growth of invasive non-native species at the
expense of native species in areas such as Burgess Creek. Native species not known to occur in
the referenced regional ecosystem can also outcompete endemic species.



Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                  Page 22

Section 24

Eutrophication has potential impacts on low nutrient adapted species such as acid frogs as the pH
of the water body becomes less acidic.

Numerous bioretention basins, many originally installed as part of development applications, exist
within the bushland reserves network. Bioretention assets are managed and maintained by
Council’s Natural Area’s Team.


5.4    Human Impacts on Open Space and Urban Interface
Some reserves have been impacted by
vegetation clearing by local residents lopping,
pruning or poisoning vegetation. Generally such
actions are undertaken by adjacent residents
wishing to create improved view lines,
encroaching into reserve land to increase their
living area, or constructing pathways. This is
particularly evident along the coastal strip,
where the linear dunal reserve network has
been significantly impacted.

Other impacts include unauthorised use of
recreational vehicles such as 4WDs and trail
bikes within the bushland reserve network with
resultant erosion and increased sedimentation
of waterways, as well as damage to Council
infrastructure such as gates and signs.

In some reserves mountain and dirt biking
activities have led to tracks and speed jumps
being constructed by excavation and movement
of soil.

Illegal dumping of green waste and household
and construction waste has reduced in recent
years through Council’s proactive approach to
dumping, but still remains an issue within parts
of the bushland reserve network. On areas
where dumping has previously occurred,                Figure 12 - Dumping of garden waste within reserves
significant garden weed infestations often now        remains a threat to bushland values
exist, that threaten biodiversity values within the
reserve and require resourcing to eradicate.



5.5    Human/Wildlife Conflict
A number of native fauna species have caused a level of angst amongst impacted residents, with
flying fox camps in urban areas being the main concern.

Council also receives occasional customer requests to deal with magpie attacks, the noise from
roosting rainbow lorikeets at night, and perceived threats from snakes.

Further, a number of non-native species also cause angst amongst impacted residents, including
wild dogs, foxes, cane toads and cats.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                        Page 23

Section 25

6. Current Management Planning &
   Resourcing
6.1    Reserve Planning History
Managing Councils’ bushland reserves for their biodiversity values actively commenced in the mid
1990’s when Council’s Weeds Inspector recognised that a range of invasive weed species were
overtaking many reserves. Although the focus was on declared species under the then Land
Protection Act, management also extended to some non-declared species in certain areas.

From 2000 onwards, additional Council staff were progressively employed to manage the bushland
reserve network through both planning activities, and a range of operational activities addressing
the pressures described in section 6. From 2007 to 2011, additional resourcing was directed into
managing the bushland reserve network through developing reserve classification protocols,
additional management plans, flora surveys, bushland operational assessments (BOAs) and on-
ground management.

Since deamalgamation Council has undertaken additional BOAs on some of its reserves and has
continued operational management of the bushland reserve network via Council staff and
contractors. Noosa Council also has a fire management plan for its bushland reserves, to
specifically deal with this aspect of reserve management.

Management resources have been prioritised over the last 2-5 years (2014-19) through a detailed
prioritisation matrix where individual reserve values and threats were evaluated. Management
Plans and BOAs have been the principle planning tools used to guide resource investment at the
reserve level.

Numerous Ecological Restoration Plans have been developed and these plans contain BOAs as a
primary guide to prioritising on-ground actions, however Council has identified the need to develop
an overarching and consistent approach to planning and operational activities across our whole
reserve system.


6.2    Reserve Tenure
The bushland reserve network comprises land parcels owned by Council as freehold land either
purchased under the environment levy or longer term properties acquired for other purposes (such
as landfill, sewerage treatment and compulsory acquisition following rate arrears). There are also
many land parcels owned by the State Government with Council as trustee. State lands with
Council as trustee includes developer contributions as part of a development assessment process
and are generally gazetted as ‘Reserves for Conservation’.

There are several State-owned reserves gazetted under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 that
have joint State/Council management arrangements in place. These are currently called
Conservation Parks or Regional Parks

Some of the Council-owned freehold parcels have a Nature Refuge under the Queensland
Government Nature Conservation Act 1992 registered on title. Freehold lands with a Nature
Refuge have a conservation agreement in place which stipulates that the owner must manage the
land for conservation values.




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Section 26

Figure 13 - Tenure of Council-managed Bushland Reserves

 Land Tenure                                               Area (ha)
 Reserve (Council as Trustee)                              1459.7
 Free Hold                                                 1203.15
 Land Lease                                                0.77
 State Land / USL (Council as Trustee)                     16.33
 National Park (Joint Management)                          13.2
 Road Reserve / Esplanade (Council as trustee)             775.85

Reserve tenure does have some influence over the management and rehabilitation actions that are
permitted to occur within bushland reserves. In particular, freehold parcels allow for greater scope
of protection mechanisms such as Nature Refuge declarations and they also provide greater scope
of additional value-adding, such as facilitation of formal legislative biodiversity and carbon offsets.

Reserves that originate as part of a Development Assessment process may have ‘on-maintenance’
periods for ecological restoration actions covering several years as guided by formal flora and
fauna surveys and management plans. Great potential exists for closer alignment to the
development assessment process with regard to species data collection, and the formalisation of
standardised management plans. This will avoid duplication and reduce the planning burden as
new bushland reserves come on line.
6.3     Current Management Resourcing
6.3.1        Internal Council Investment
In 2020, Noosa Shire Council employs 6 staff to manage its bushland reserve network including
managerial, technical and on-ground staff. The Natural Areas team works very closely with:
 Council Pest Management Officers - There is an active fauna (native and pest animal)
    monitoring program in place in a number of key reserves utilising sand plots and fauna
    cameras. Outcomes of this monitoring determine pest animal management activities.
 Community Bushland Care Officer - Manages the Bushland Care Program, funded through
    Council’s Environmental Partnerships program. Approximately 60% of the sites included in the
    Bushland Care program occur on bushland reserves.
 Council’s Parks & Gardens branch - Many Bushland Reserves abut Open Space recreational
    parks requiring interface management between teams. These can sometimes include mowing,
    tree and invasive species management.
 Council’s Civil Operations team - A significant amount of drainage, pathway, beach access and
    bridge infrastructure occur within or adjacent to Bushland Reserves at times resulting in
    hydrological changes and debris accumulation.

NSC engages both internal staff and external contractors to undertake on-ground works in
designated reserves.

Bushland reserves are generally inspected annually by staff.


6.3.2        Community Involvement
Noosa’s community are passionate about the natural landscape they live in, and there are active
community groups and a volunteer network working within Council’s bushland reserves on a
variety of on ground projects. This effort adds value to that invested by Council, with significant
biodiversity outcomes achieved on the ground to date.



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Section 27

There are currently 19
Bushland Care groups
operating on 39 sites in
Noosa Shire, with over
210 active volunteers. Of
the 39 sites, approximately
60% occur within Council’s
bushland reserves. The
other sites are generally
within recreational parks,
road reserves and
National Parks. Bushland
Care volunteers undertake
activities such as
removing invasive species
and rubbish, revegetation
and community education.

Several community groups
also seek external funding
                             Figure 14 - Bushland Care group activities contribute significantly to the
to undertake works within    management of many bushland reserves
the bushland reserve
network which can often
yield large gains. An example is Noosa & District Landcare’s Application during the 2014/15
financial year to undertake weed control works and infill native species planting at Yellow Belly
Reserve in Cooran.

These have the potential to constitute a 1:5 value-adding result to Bushland Reserve Management.
Similar examples can be shown with other groups and sites throughout the Shire.

From time to time, employment programs offering teams of workers are available for Noosa
Council or local community groups to utilise. This can include Green Army teams (Commonwealth-
funded) and Skilling Queenslanders for Work crews (State-funded). Numerous teams have been
active within the Bushland Reserve Program over the last decade.

Provided efforts are strategic and well consulted, the work undertaken by community groups,
volunteers and employment teams can achieve great results and can complement and greatly
value-add the Council’s efforts to manage a variety of reserve issues.




Figure 15 - Community Tree Planting Day at Kin Kin Entrance Bushland Reserve 2017, a component of a larger external
grant acquired by Noosa Landcare for reserves in the Kin Kin area

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Section 28

7. Noosa Reserve Management Framework
   2021-2026
Council will follow best practice management principles throughout its Natural Areas Program.

Best practice bushland management principles are detailed in the SE Qld Ecological Restoration
Framework Guideline and Manual (Chenoweth 2012) and are focused on developing ecosystem
resilience. This is defined as the ability of an ecosystem to recover its structure and function
following a disturbance event.

The five key principles are:
 Restored ecosystems incorporate assemblages of species reflecting those in reference
   ecosystems and have the potential to recruit further species by natural means;
 Restored ecosystems support the same structure and function as reference ecosystems;
 Restored ecosystems consist of indigenous species of local provenance to the greatest extent
   practicable;
 Restored ecosystems are self-sustaining to the same degree as a reference ecosystem, such
   that they are resilient to normal periodic stress; and,
 Restored ecosystems interact with the surrounding landscape and contribute to ecosystem
   services.

Of the four approaches to ecosystem restoration outlined in the manual, Council has adopted
natural regeneration and assisted natural regeneration as priority approaches. This works best
where evidence of ecosystem resilience is apparent within the reserve as determined by a
Bushland Operational Assessment.

Where evidence indicates that ecosystem resilience is absent from a reserve or sections of a
reserve, ecosystem reconstruction (revegetation/ direct seeding) may be necessary. However it
can be an expensive option in relation to establishment and ongoing maintenance costs.

In most cases, assisted natural regeneration through targeted actions, such as controlling invasive
species, is appropriate for Council’s bushland reserve network. The intent within a reserve is to
improve the resilience rating of all sites within the reserve over time, with a priority on working on
the best most resilient areas first. The exception to this is where outlier transformer weeds are
present in a reserve and require control to prevent further spread.

Best Practice Guidelines and triage (looking after the best areas first) approaches to developing
strategic works programs have guided the following Management Framework, Reserve
Prioritisation and Management Program Category approaches.


7.1    Formal Management Framework
A clear and transparent framework for planning is necessary to guide on ground works that
achieve Council’s objectives within the limited funding resources that exist.

A clear and transparent adaptive planning process also allows Council to track the progress of
works against targets and change actions if necessary. Typical adaptive planning processes follow
a Plan – Do – Review process, but most importantly, they need to include sound monitoring and
evaluation components.

Figure 16 outlines the management framework that will be adopted for the Natural Areas program.




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Section 29

Figure 16 - The Noosa bushland reserves management framework




The Strategic level components of the Management Framework are:

1) The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan (this document).

2) Reserve Prioritisation
   A detailed analysis of the 178 reserves has been undertaken to identify where resources
   should be allocated. The process is informed by GIS analysis and Expert Panel review and
   data is housed in a formatted excel spreadsheet. Five tiers of reserve prioritization scoring
   within the prioritisation process are identified.

3) Reserve Management Program Category Allocation
   The Reserve Management Program categories outline the management intent, planning
   response and on-ground effort allocated and planned for each reserve. They include the
   categories of ‘Protect’, ‘Enhance’ or ‘Monitor’. The Management Program Category identifies
   the anticipated and planned type, frequency and extent of management resources allocated to
   each reserve.

The intent of each Management Program category is as follows:
 Protect Program
   Aims to preserve the current vegetation condition of a reserve through the undertaking of minor
   restoration works (<5 years in duration) where necessary as a result of annual inspections and
   / or in accordance with a Bushland Reserve Management Plan if one is necessary for the site
   due to conflicting management issues.

   Enhance Program
    Aims to intensify, increase, or further improve the condition, value, and/or extent of vegetation
    within a reserve. Works undertaken in accordance with a current Bushland Reserve
    Management Plan (where one is necessary for the site due to conflicting management issues),
    and subordinate Ecological Restoration Plan and/or BOA.




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Section 30

   Monitor Program
    Aims to observe and check the trajectory and quality of vegetation condition of a reserve over a
    period of time. Annual Reserve Inspections occur, in accordance with a Bushland Reserve
    Management Plan if one is necessary for the site due to conflicting management issues.

    Reserves within each category may be allocated one or more of the following reserve planning
    mechanisms based on the reserve issues and restoration requirements are:

    a) Reserve Management Plans (RMP)
       Reserve Management Plans documents the values within the reserve, statement of
       management intent, threats (mapped condition assessment via a BOA), recovery potential,
       community uses, built assets construction and maintenance, and prescribes a broad five
       year schedule of on-ground works to address management issues. Further, the plans
       incorporate a Fire Management Plan.

    b) Ecological Restoration Plans (ERP)
       Ecological restoration plans guide the rehabilitation effort for subject reserves. The plans
       will provide a clear ecological restoration approach and targets through a Bushland
       Operational Assessment (BOA) process. Ecological Restoration Plans require review at 5
       year intervals and provide discrete targets for monitoring overall achievement of the key
       objectives of the Reserve Management Plan.

    c) Bushland Operational Assessments (BOA’s)
       BOA’s provide detailed data on both the discrete landscape management units at the
       reserve level in addition to assigned condition/resilience scores and specific management
       actions for each management unit. BOA’s follow a ridged structure allowing for the process
       to be repeated at 5 yearly intervals and provide comparable data on reserve condition
       improvement or decline over time.

4) Annual Reserve Inspection Reports
   Reserve Inspections will be undertaken yearly for all reserves to inform Council of both
   proactive and reactive actions necessary for annual resource allocation and Work Orders.



7.2    Reserve Prioritisation Method
For its small size and ratepayer base, Noosa Council has a large area of reserve land to manage.
This area is being constantly increased from Environment levy land acquisitions and developer
contributions. The level of resourcing required to manage this land to the highest ecological
standard is very high, and it is necessary to prioritise where the resources are best allocated to
achieve the objectives indicated in Section 2.

The philosophy behind prioritising reserves to achieve the best biodiversity outcomes recognises
that the best shire-wide biodiversity outcomes can be achieved by allocating resources to manage
the more ecologically resilient reserves first. Implicit in this philosophy is the reality that some of the
smaller, highly-degraded reserves, while still possessing biodiversity, waterway and social values,
may never be able to be restored to an ecologically resilient condition without significant further
resources.

Much study has occurred regarding the best method of prioritisation of individual assets for natural
resources management purposes. Prior reserve prioritisation methods undertaken by Council
have primarily utilised criterion focussed on value and threats. This approach however does not
evaluate the technical feasibility of addressing known threats and nor does it attempt to understand
the amount of resources required to effectively manage them.




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Section 31

A new Prioritisation Matrix and Decision Support Tool has been developed for this Plan. The tool
contains elements of a method initially developed by Marsh et al (2007) that has been used
recently in threatened species management optimisation in applications in Queensland and New
Zealand. An outline and explanation of the justification and source of the assessment criterion of
the Bushland Rating Matrix and Decision Support Tool is contained within Appendix 3.

The prioritisation system needs to be as simple and repeatable as possible and only include
criterion which helps differentiate one reserve from another in regards to resource allocation. It
principally utilises GIS data, including data layers recently produced for the Noosa Biodiversity
Plan Background Report. Where existing data or GIS data was unavailable, data was determined
by seeking the views of the Council officers who manage the entire bushland reserve network and
have in-depth knowledge of the majority of reserves.

A variety of criterion were developed to provide scores for the following values:
 Biodiversity Value
 Waterway Value
 Carbon Sink Value
 Social Value
 Cultural Value

Data was collated to assist in the scoring of the potential for successful management outcomes,
namely:
 Ecological Potential for Recovery
 Ongoing Management – Financial and other Costs of Management.

Weightings for each category of values was determined through a survey of an internal stakeholder
group consisting of 16 people from Environmental Services, Strategic Planning, Development
Assessment, Park & Gardens and Civil Operations staff for the Plan development within Council.


Figure 17 - Prioritisation Weighting




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Section 32

7.3      Reserve Prioritisation Results
The results of the prioritisation are captured within Appendix 4, and thus indicate the highest
priority reserves for management consideration and resource allocation. The reserves are
allocated a tier level with an allocation of ‘1’ to identify the highest value scores, recognising
reserve values and feasibility of ecological restoration, and a Tier allocation of ‘5’ being lower
scoring reserves. Figure 18 provides a visual summary of the prioritisation results across the entire
Bushland Reserve Network.

Figure 18 - Map showing prioritisation results




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Section 33

Figure 19 - Decision Framework for Management Program Category and Planning Mechanism allocation




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Section 34

7.4          Reserve Management Planning Mechanisms
Reserves within each Management Program category may be allocated one or more of the
following reserve planning mechanisms based on the reserve issues and restoration requirements.
The allocated reserve management categories and Planning Mechanisms for each reserve within
the Noosa Bushland Reserve Network is identified in Appendix 5the table below. Planning
Mechanisms showing as red fontgreen have already been done and are current. Figure 20
provides a summary indicating number of reserves per tier, management program and planning
mechanism.

Figure 20 - Reserve Management Program Category and Planning Mechanism summary

                     Management Program Category                Planning Mechanisms
    Prioritised
    Tier            Enhance   Protect    Monitor        RMP          ERP         BOA       Nil

    Tier 1            20        15          0             2            1         17        14
    Tier 2            20        17          0             0            2         18        17
    Tier 3            17        18          0             3            2         12        18
    Tier 4             0         0          35            4            0          0        31
    Tier 5             0         0          35            1            0          0        34
figure 20


7.4.1             Reserve Management Plans
Reserve Management Plans should follow a standard template with the following:

      Management Context. Provides links to higher level Council plans and strategies, planning
       scheme designation, reserve tenure, legislative drivers, vision, objectives, allowable uses.
      Values. Describes the range of biodiversity, waterway, cultural and heritage values within the
       reserve.
      Management Considerations. Describes threatening processes within the reserve, Condition
       assessment (via a BOA), feasibility of achieving ecosystem resilience, Natural Hazards (i.e. fire
       risk, flooding, hazardous trees), Community engagement and education, building knowledge.
      Management Actions. Prescribed management actions linked to objectives and key
       performance indicators.

In reserves where fire management actions are required, the reserve management plans should
include the following:
 Maps depicting fire hazard ratings within the reserve, sensitive ecosystems/features within the
    reserve (i.e. habitat trees, rainforest), zonation (i.e. zones to be fire managed for biodiversity
    and those zones to be managed as reduced fuel areas adjacent to built infrastructure) locations
    of fire trails and control lines, water points, escape routes, gates, turnaround areas.
 Text describing fire hazard ratings, fuel loads, built assets at risk such as adjoining housing,
    mitigating actions (creation of fire control lines, reduced fuel zones), recommended fire
    frequency, intensity and timing for maintenance of reserve biodiversity and community safety
    (including not using fire at all and provide alternative recommendations for reducing fire
    hazard), roles of external agencies such as QPWS, QFRS, and the rural fire brigades,
    community education.
 Action plan. Map showing staged fire management areas and timing over 10 years. Details of
    pre-fire preparation (fire trail construction and maintenance, rake fuel away from habitat trees,
    seek permit, advise neighbours, ensure favourable climatic conditions i.e. ground moisture,
    wind speed, direction, humidity)
 Response to unplanned fire. Text describing actions to take in the event of unplanned fire from
    arson, lightning strike, etc.

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Section 35

     Maintain records of fire events within the reserve.
     Monitor and record response of vegetation/ fauna within the reserve from fire events.


7.4.2          Ecological Restoration Plans
Reserve-specific ecological restoration plans should contain the following:
 Site description - including location, size, tenure, geology and soils, aspect, topography,
   vegetation description, endangered, vulnerable and near threatened species and locations,
   landscape context, threats.
 Bushland Operational Assessment (BOA) - BOA with map that depicts the condition ratings
   (resilience) of specific zones within the reserve.
 Restoration approach - Recommendations for the appropriate restoration approach to follow
   (i.e. Natural regeneration, assisted natural regeneration, reconstruction, fabrication) noting one
   reserve may require a number of restoration approaches. A management zone map will
   indicate these restoration approaches.
 Implementation schedule – Prioritisation of management actions and timing over 5 years.
 Monitoring and evaluation guidelines - including undertaking BOAs at 5 yearly intervals to
   evaluate management actions. The change in condition rating (both overall and within specific
   management zones) should demonstrate the effectiveness of management activities. If not
   management action should be adapted accordingly.


7.4.3          Bushland Operational Assessments
The Bushland Operational Assessment (BOA) methodology for mapping resilience-based native
vegetation condition within a patch of bushland was initially developed by the National Trust in
Sydney in the 1980’s. (McDonald 2000).

The intent of the mapping is to guide on-ground restoration works to improve ecosystem resilience.
Assessing ecosystem resilience using this method requires the following:
 Knowledge of the resilience of the site’s in-situ endemic flora species given natural disturbance
   regimes, e.g. how individual species react to fire.
 Knowledge of the impacts on the site (e.g. invasive species, nutrient pollution)
 Knowledge of how the site will respond to specific restoration treatments.

The mapping uses a set of 6 condition or resilience classes assigned to various portions of the site.

Figure 21 - BOA Condition Classes

    Condition Class                 Definition                                    Restoration approach
    0 – Excellent resilience        All strata and species (for the reference     Natural regeneration.
                                    ecosystem) are intact with evidence of
                                    recruitment. No invasive species or other
                                    threats evident. Will rapidly and fully
                                    recover from natural disturbance
    1 – Very Good resilience        All strata and species (for the reference     Assisted natural regeneration
                                    ecosystem) are intact with evidence of
                                    recruitment. Signs of degradation becoming
                                    apparent, such as slight weed infestations.
                                    Will fully recover from disturbance but
                                    invasive species may increase.
    2 – Good resilience             All strata and species (for the reference     Assisted natural regeneration
                                    ecosystem) are intact with evidence of
                                    recruitment. Invasive species or other
                                    disturbance starting to impact on native
                                    vegetation.




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Section 36

 Condition Class             Definition                                     Restoration approach
 3 – Moderate resilience     Although all native vegetation strata may be   Assisted natural regeneration
                             present invasive species are equally
                             dominant.
 4 – Poor resilience         Invasive species dominate the site,            Assisted natural regeneration
                             although some native species are evident.
 5 – Very poor resilience    Large areas of the site do not contain any     Assisted natural regeneration
                             native species, site either cleared or         and/or reconstruction
                             dominated by invasive species.
 6.Nil resilience            No evidence of native plants or recruitment,   Reconstruction
                             soil substrate may be totally disturbed.

Repeating the BOA at regular 5 year intervals allows Council to monitor how the reserve is
responding to management actions and informs adaptive management. The below image
demonstrates the visual and obvious changes that have occurred on the site between the two
BOA’s.

This process requires consistency in undertaking the condition assessments, as a change in
resilience condition could be due to the assessor interpreting the site differently to how it was done
previously.




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Section 37

Figure 22 - Change in resilience condition at Heritage Park from 2010 to 2018




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Section 38

7.5       Annual Reserve Inspection Reports
Reserve inspections will be conducted on a yearly basis and will capture:

   Vegetation condition and how it is responding to on ground works;
   Condition of any built assets (trails, paths, signage, bridges, tables, seats);
   Fire fuel loads if relevant;
   Any notable species observations; and,
   Encroachments via urban impacts and other pressures outlined above in section 6.

This information will be collected electronically and uploaded into a data system that generates
work orders for action.



7.6       Service Levels
A level of service is the amount of resourcing Council will put towards managing a reserve to
address its legal obligations, community expectations, level of threat, and the potential for
biodiversity values to be maintained or improved. Levels of service capture both proactive and
reactive actions.

Each service item within the Level of Service table has an estimated costing identified including
plans, staff time, expenses and contracting costs.

Figure 23 - Annual Allocations - Levels of Service Table

Management           Monitoring                                   Invasive species management
Programs
Protect              Annual inspection                            As guided by management Plan and Annual
                                                                  inspection. Target all invasive species in reserve
                                                                  with <6 Labour days per annum




Enhance               Where ERP’s or Boa’s exist or are required – Target priority biodiversity pest species only.
                     reviewed every 5 years.                       Guided by ERP or BOA with <36 Labour days per
                     Annual inspection                             annum.




Monitor              Annual inspection.                           Target priority biodiversity pest species only




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Section 39

8. Operational Management Review
8.1     Management Planning Activities
8.1.1       Reserve Naming Convention Introduced
Within the Bushland Reserves database there are currently 16 different reserve naming
conventions, however from the commencement of this plan the reserve names will be rationalised
to 7 categories that clearly indicate the reserve tenure and purpose:

   Reserves with a Nature Refuge on title are [name] Nature Refuge
   Tier 1 to tier 4 reserves are called [name] Bushland Reserves
   Tier 5 reserves are called [name] Natural Amenity Reserves
   Reserves with a park (mown grass) component are named as [name] Park.
   Reserves designated for drainage purposes only are called [name] Drainage Reserves
   Reserves owned by Qld Parks and Wildlife Service with joint management with Council require
    clarification with the State regarding the naming protocols.
   Reserves designated exclusively as fire breaks are called [name] Fire Management Reserves.


8.1.2       Reserve Signage
Council will conduct a signage audit (via the annual reserve inspection) to identify the current
status of reserve signage to inform replacement of signage that reflect the reserve naming
protocols and Noosa Council’s signage style and policy. In high priority reserves (tier 1) with high
individual Social Values scores, Council will consider reserve naming and interpretive signage.


8.1.3       Reserve Protective Mechanisms
Council has previously nominated a number of freehold land parcels for gazettal as Nature
Refuges under the Queensland Nature Conservation Act. Inclusion of reserves under this
protective mechanism permanently protects the environmental values on the land from any future
impacts that would compromise the biodiversity values and ecosystem services the reserve
provides.


8.2     Management Resourcing Activities
8.2.1       External Investment Opportunities
Opportunities exist for Council to source external funding under State and Commonwealth
programs to assist with managing reserves for threatened species recovery, and managing certain
invasive species.

Within Noosa, many community groups have successfully obtained external funds to undertake on-
ground activities within Council’s bushland reserve network. Council will continue to work in
partnership with the community to apply for external funding, with the understanding that when the
funding for a particular project finishes, Council then has responsibility for managing that area into
the future.

The attainment of external funding and the responsibility of protecting that investment may have
consequences for future budget allocations so needs to be carefully considered before applying.




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Section 40

8.2.2       Offset Area Designation & Management Funding
Under Council’s Tree Management on Public Land Policy, any trees removed during Council works
operations are required to be offset at a local suitable receiving site. Ideally these offset receiving
sites should be contained within Council-managed bushland reserves.

A large number of reserves have small areas of cleared land that may be suitable as receiving
sites for a range of scales of offsets. These sites should be identified and earmarked as future
offset receiving sites.

Bushland reserves with potential for medium to larger-sized offsets (> 1ha) include:
 Girraween Nature Refuge
 Kings St Bushland Reserve
 Edington Drive Environmental Reserve
 Black Mountain Bushland Reserve
 Boronia Bushland Reserve
 Bagnall’s Bushland Reserve
 Ashgrove Bushland Reserve

Small offset receiving sites are best examined on a case by case basis and aligned with highest
priority actions of local reserves where possible.


8.2.3       Regrowth Carbon Offset Investigation
A number of Council bushland reserves contain sizable stands of regrowth vegetation in various
conditions, including Girraween Nature Refuge, Cooloothin Creek Nature Refuge and the
Cooroibah Environmental Reserve and Conservation Park.

Council will investigate a formal Carbon Offset for a grouped multi-reserve consortium application
for managed regrowth under the Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Energy’s
Emissions Reduction Fund or other possible voluntary carbon arrangements.

Investigations will need to consider costs for the Offset management, in particular auditing costs,
however the funds received through the arrangement may increase financial resources available
within the program.


8.3     Community Education and Engagement Activities
8.3.1       Community Education & Awareness
Council will proactively undertake community awareness raising via developing an informative
website, brochures, factsheets, guided walks, landholder engagement programs such as Land for
Wildlife, urban biodiversity programs, and interpretive and regulatory signage.

The intent is to raise the community’s awareness and appreciation about the area they live in to
facilitate behavioural change. This can encourage residents to grow local native species, not
feeding wildlife, contain domestic animals and, reduce instances of illegal dumping, encroachment,
vegetation removal, and vandalism.




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Section 41

8.3.2       Bushland Care Program
The Bushland Care groups have a
long history of successfully obtaining
external funding and committing to
follow-up maintenance to a number of
sites. Council will continue to support
the community groups preferably
guided by, but sitting independently of,
the prioritisation and management
recommendations within this Plan.

Resources will be allocated to
improving the capacity of the Bushland
Care Groups to undertake works to
best practice standards in consultation
with the local community and to aid in
the attraction of external funding. This
may include training workshops, grant    Figure 24 - Bushland Care Groups can be supported in a variety of ways
writing support and assistance, and on- and can enable valuable local community engagement
ground materials such as signage and flyers to local residents.


8.4     Operational Activities
8.4.1       Reactionary Issues – Customer Requests
The role of local government is to deliver services to its community. One of these services is to
respond to requests from residents. In the context of managing bushland reserves these requests
may relate to concerns over fire risk, trees dropping limbs, vegetation reducing amenity, and
wildlife including pest animal species. Council manages many of these requests independently of
the specified management programs, which focus on ecological restoration.


8.4.2       Invasive species management.
For reserves allocated the ‘Protect’ and ‘Enhance’ Management Category, the desired medium-
term objective is to eradicate all invasive weed species from the reserves.

Weed control activities should be undertaken at the most effective times based on the target weed
species life cycle with the intent to reduce weed seed production and exhaust the reserves of weed
seeds in the soil.

Weed such as lantana that have some habitat values for native animals should be removed
gradually (for example lantana thickets can provide suitable habitat for Black-breasted Buttonquail
(Turnix melanogaster). The aim is to remove weeds at the rate of recovery of native species to
avoid disruption to faunal habitat. Areas of exotic grasses such as setaria (Setaria sphacelata) may
provide habitat for granivorous bird species such as finches so should not necessarily be slashed
to “tidy up” the site.

For reserves within the ‘Monitor’ category, the intent is to monitor priority invasive species identified
by the Noosa Biosecurity Plan or the ‘transformer’ weeds list and target if significant impacts are
occurring.




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Section 42

Council Staff will be trained and accredited in
bushland regeneration techniques, assessing
bushland for resilience (BOA), best practice weed
species management that minimises herbicide usage
(particularly in urban areas or adjacent to
waterways), fauna monitoring techniques, and data
collection using electronic devices.

Contractors need to demonstrate that all staff are
proficient in bushland regeneration and invasive
species management and are operating using the
same best practices as outlined within the SE Qld
Ecological Restoration Framework Guideline and
Manual.
                                                          Figure 25 - Council staff and contractors need to become
                                                          proficient at field-based electronic recording of pest species
                                                          and use of Council’s Pest Management Database
8.4.3       Fire Management.
Noosa’s bushland reserves contain many native vegetation communities that are fire adapted and
in the absence of fire, may lose species diversity. Management of these reserves for fire is dealt
with separately in the Noosa Bushland Reserve Strategic Fire Management Plan.

Extended periods without a fire in these native vegetation communities can lead to a large build-up
of fuels (leaf litter and woody material) that create suitable conditions for intense fire with adverse
impacts on biodiversity values, human safety, and the built environment.

The Queensland Herbarium’s Regional Ecosystem Fire Guidelines 2016 are the recommended fire
regimes for regional ecosystems and broad vegetation groups within South East Queensland.

In urban areas some smaller reserves have a medium to high fire hazard and present a potential
risk to adjoining residents. Some reserves in these areas may not be able to be burnt at all due to
health risks to adjacent residents from smoke, and the potential for a prescribed burn to escape
containment lines with a change in wind direction. In these instances it is important to plan for a
potential wildfire by ensuring fire trails are of adequate width for response crews to access the
reserve to conduct firefighting activities.

In the absence of fire in many reserves containing fire adapted native vegetation there will be a
change in plant species composition, e.g. reduced recruitment of eucalypts, an increase in
rainforest species with an associated change in faunal species, and the dunal systems reverting to
more mesic communities with a loss of Banksia integrifolia.


8.4.4       Recreational Trails

Council has an extensive network of trails within the hinterland (Noosa Trail network). This trail
network is mainly within unmade road reserve so is outside the scope of this plan. However, a
Noosa Trail Masterplan has been developed and is guiding future development and maintenance
of the trail network.

Where the trail network passes through bushland reserves it should be inspected every 6 months
at least and maintained regularly to prevent erosion, weed incursions, illegal campfires and
damage to vegetation. Within the bushland reserve network there also exists a number of
recreational trails, for example the Cooloola Great walk commences within Arthur Harrold Nature
Refuge.



Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                          Page 41

Section 43

8.4.5       Habitat enhancement
As indicated in Section 6, loss of tree hollows is a significant contributor to the ongoing population
decline of many hollow dependant fauna species in SE Qld. Council will seek over time within
suitable reserves (i.e. those not containing many arboreal and ground hollows) for nest boxes to be
installed, and have a regular monitoring and maintenance program in place to ensure native fauna
is utilising the hollows.

Additionally any woody material containing hollows that is removed from Council construction/ tree
maintenance/ removal operations anywhere in the Shire, Council will endeavour to be relocated to
suitable receiving sites within the bushland reserve network as ground habitat.
8.4.6       Collection activities
Collection of firewood, rocks, seed and plant parts from local government controlled areas or roads
is a Prohibited activity under Subordinate Local Law No.4

In Queensland, all plants that are native to Australia are protected plants under the Nature
Conservation Act 1992. The Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006
regulates the taking (collection), propagation and trade of protected plants through a licensing
system, administered by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection. The Department
of Environment and Heritage Protection’s Code of Practice for the taking and use of protected
plants sets out the standards and requirements for collecting protected plant material.
8.4.7       Addressing impacts from unauthorised use
Reserves that attract unauthorised recreational use from vehicles, trail bikes, and horse riders will
be audited to ascertain the level of damage, frequency and type of use. In the first instance,
attempts to engage with the people undertaking the activity will be made either via signage, media
articles, direct communication if possible, or a letter box drop. If the impacts continue, signage,
fencing, rock placement and locked gates may be required. An increased level of reserve
inspections from annually to monthly may also be necessary.

Under Council’s Local Law 4, compliance actions may be required if the impacts continue.
8.5     Building Reserve Knowledge Activities
Noosa Council’s bushland reserve network encompasses a large diversity of ecosystems and
associated flora and fauna species. The full diversity of ecosystem types and species assemblages
within this bushland reserve network is unknown. It is recommended that Council build this
knowledge so that the reserves can be managed to maintain populations of threatened species.

The following activities will be implemented:
 Council Natural Areas staff will be trained and accredited in bushland regeneration techniques,
   assessing bushlands for resilience (BOA), and electronic data collection of fauna and flora
   species, particularly EVNT species, occurring within the bushland reserve network.
 This includes opportunistic observations as well as targeted surveys via fauna cameras and
   acoustic monitoring. These records should be uploaded into a formal database such as
   Wildnet.
 Contractors working within the bushland reserve network will be encouraged to record and
   provide Council with opportunistic EVNT species observations.
 Refining of the current vegetation (Regional Ecosystem) mapping within the bushland reserve
   network and forwarding this information to Qld Herbarium, as the current State Government
   mapping is inaccurate in some areas.
 Natural Areas staff will formally map invasive weed species on reserves via Council’s internal
   Pest Mapping program within Arc Esri Collector App.
 Encouraging the community to participate in citizen science activities such as the Glossy Black-
   Cockatoo birding day.

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                 Page 42

Section 44

9. Action Plan
The Action Plan reflects management actions across the breadth of the Natural Areas Program
and incorporates desired outcomes of the various Commonwealth, State, Regional and Local
planning and legislative requirements and the Noosa Environment Strategy.

The Action plan relates directly to the Noosa Council Environment Strategy, the Noosa Local
Government Area Biosecurity Plan 2020-25, and the Noosa Koala Conservation Plan 2016.

The Action Plan is categorised as follows:

   Management Planning Activities - The Bushland Reserve Management Framework is
    Strategic and Efficient.
   Education & Engagement Activities – Management threats and impacts to reserve values
    are reduced through effective engagement with the local community through education and
    awareness.
   Operational Activities - Bushland reserve values are protected, maintained or improved
    through best practice management.
   Building Reserve Knowledge Activities - Enhancing knowledge and data of bushland
    reserves and improving data collection and maintenance.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                            Page 43

Section 45

Ref#   Plan Actions                                                        Strategic     Responsibilities         Additional resources          Status
                                                                           Link                                   required
1.1    Develop comprehensive digital templates for:                        FMP*          Council                  Ongoing                       Underway
           Reserve Management Plans, incorporating full Fire              ES
             Management Plans.                                             BP
           Ecological Restoration Plans
           Bushland Operational Assessment’s (BOA’s)
           Annual Inspection Reports
1.2    Develop new and keep up-to-date Reserve Management Plans for        FMP*          Council                  $15,000 per reserve (or       Not
       reserves specified in Reserve Management Program Category           ES                                     reserve aggregation)          Commenced
       and Planning Mechanism allocation 2021-2026                         BP                                     Aggregate Dunal Foreshore
                                                                                                                  Reserves into Coastal
                                                                                                                  Management Plan (An action
                                                                                                                  item from ES)
1.3    Undertake and keep up-to-date Bushland Operational                  ES            Council                  BOA -$1000 per reserve (27    Not
       Assessments for reserves mentioned (Figure 19) and use this         BP                                     reserves)                     Commenced
       information to develop Ecological Restoration Plans.                                                       ERP -$2,500 per reserve (2
                                                                                                                  reserves)
                                                                                                                  $35,000
1.4    New reserves acquired by Environment Levy Program have              FMP*          Council                  As per rates specified REF#   Underway
       Management Plans and Ecological Restoration Plans (if identified    ES                                     1.2 & 1.3
       through Decision Framework) developed as part of the site           BP
       acquisition expenses prior to transference to the Bushland          PLCG
       Reserve portfolio.
1.5    New reserves emanating from the Development Assessment              FMP*          Council                  As per rates specified REF#   Underway
       process within Council have Management Plans and Ecological         ES                                     1.2 & 1.3
       Restoration Plans (if identified through Decision Framework)        BP
       developed according to standard Council templates and funded by     NP
       developers prior to transference of the property to the Bushland
       Reserves portfolio.
1.6    Develop a bushland reserve recreation guide (printed or digital /   Noosa Sport   Council, Tourism Noosa   TBC                           Not
       online) for reserves that are suitable for nature-based tourism     and Active                                                           Commenced
       activities                                                          Recreation
                                                                           Plan 2017
                                                                           ES,
                                                                           Noosa Trail
                                                                           Master Plan
1.7    Permit and data storage process developed for native seed           NSC Local     Council                  As part of staff duties       Not
       collection and other activities within Council Reserves.            Law 4                                                                Commenced
1.8    Council directly seeks external grant funding, employment teams     ES            Council                  As part of staff duties       Underway
       and informal offsetting investment to enhance program               KCP

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                 Page 44

Section 46

Ref#   Plan Actions                                                           Strategic        Responsibilities     Additional resources          Status
                                                                              Link                                  required
       investment.
1.9    Investigate and identify reserves to be used as receiving sites to     NBCP             Council              As part of staff duties       Not
       offset Council tree removal and habitat breeding area disturbance.     KCP                                                                 Commenced
2.0    Current reserve signage is audited. Interpretive, educational and      Signage          Council              As part of a New Initiative   Not
       advisory sign project developed. A signage theme is developed          Policy                                                              Commenced
       that reflects Noosa Council’s brand and ethos.
2.1    NSC proactively undertakes community awareness raising via             ES               Council, Community   Grant funding to community    Not
       developing an informative website, brochures, factsheets and                            Groups               groups to deliver an          Commenced
       guided walks. In particular regarding:                                                                       extension service.
           Invasive weeds and appropriate removal techniques;                                                      As per staff duties and
           Flora and fauna values of the reserve network;                                                          volunteer contributions,
           Specific reserve asset information.
2.2    Conduct regular arborist inspections as part of a Hazardous Tree       NC Tree          Council              As part of staff duties       Underway
       Management program at key sites where property or life risk            Management
       exists. Maintain a register that records location, species, and tree   on Public Land
       condition at each inspection.                                          Policy 2018
2.3    Protect Non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal heritage objects and places      Cultural         Council              ongoing                       Not
       from activities within bushland reserves, including assessing in       Heritage Duty                                                       Commenced
       association with Historians (Non-Aboriginal Heritage) and              of Care.
       Traditional Custodians (Kabi Kabi Traditional owners)                  ES

2.4    Refine the current vegetation (Regional Ecosystem) mapping             ES               Council              As part of staff duties       Not
       within the reserve network and forward this information to Qld                                                                             Commenced
       Herbarium


ES – Noosa Shire Council Environment Strategy
KCP – Koala Conservation Plan 2016
BP – Noosa Local Government Area Biosecurity Plan 2019
FMP – Noosa Shire Fire Management Plan 2014/15
CCAP – Climate Change Adaptation Plan
BLCG - Bushland Care Group Guidelines




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                       Page 45

Section 47

10. Monitoring & Evaluation Strategy
The monitoring and evaluation Strategy for the plan aligns with the Management Framework and is
illustrated on in Figure 26.

It comprises:
1) The Reserves Strategic Plan review and evaluation at a 5 year interval
2) An Annual Reserve Assessment and Budget Review

Figure 26 - Noosa Bushland Reserves Planning Framework




10.1 Noosa Bushland Strategic Plan Review
The Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Plan will be formally reviewed in 5 years’ time to ensure
that new information and changing priorities can be incorporated into its programs for action. The
Action Plan will be reviewed annually during the development of the budget, to ensure the priority
actions are still current, and to consider any emerging issues.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                               Page 46

Section 48

    Ref# Objective                                                   Key Performance Indicator                                         Measure

    1    Protect and improve biodiversity values within the          Ecological Condition of reserves & EVNT monitoring shows no net   Condition change within BOA’s and
         bushland reserve network using best practice                decline.                                                          Expert Panel Scores
         management.
    2    Contribute towards improvement of water quality within      Active erosion areas and ground cover issues identified in any    Annual Inspection work orders related to
         the Noosa River, Mary River and coastal creek               Ecological Restoration Plan or Annual inspection are fully        water quality maintenance are prioritised
         catchments.                                                 addressed.                                                        and fulfilled.

    3    Identify and protect Indigenous and European cultural       No net loss of identified Indigenous or European sites.         Cultural heritage site mapping remains
         heritage sites within the reserve network.                                                                                  unchanged.
    4    Develop and foster partnerships with the community.         Bushcare Groups and Community Group involvement in on-ground Number of volunteers, groups, resource
                                                                     reserve management activities is increased in number and scale. value adding ($’s) and number of sites.

    5    Manage hazardous vegetation, bushfire, flooding and         Threats to Council’s reserves are managed and reduced.            Number of threat based reactive work
         pest species within the reserve network according to                                                                          orders and BOA change.
         Council’s policies, plans, risk management procedures
         and legislative requirements.

    6    Provide opportunities for outdoor recreational activities   Improvements in the Noosa Trail network with Bushland Reserves, Recreational Use and Condition change.
         that are compatible and complementary with natural          local pedestrian access and open space areas are made without loss
         and cultural heritage values within the reserve network.    of biodiversity or other reserve values.

    7    Work with bushland reserve neighbours to achieve            Inclusion of adjoining landholder consultation for Reserve       Consultation actions and customer
         mutually beneficial biodiversity and community safety       Management and Ecological Restoration Plans and the reduction in requests. Conditions change (BOA)
         outcomes.                                                   reactionary customer requests / complaints.

    8    Identify and implement carbon sequestration and             Non-vegetated and non-recreation areas of the Bushland Reserves   Area planted for carbon sequestration
         preservation activities within the reserve network.         Program are utilised for Carbon Sequestration.



Figure 27 - Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Plan objectives, KPI's and measure

.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                  Page 47

Section 49

10.2 Operational Works Review
10.2.1      Annual Reserve Assessment and Budget Review
All reserves within the bushland reserves network will have an annual inspection whereby progress
against the Reserve Management Program Classification and Ecological Restoration Plan (where
relevant) can be gauged and any proactive or reactive actions can be identified.

Reserve inspections will be conducted on a yearly basis and will capture:

   Vegetation condition and how it is responding to on ground works;
   Condition of any built assets (trails, paths, signage, bridges, tables, seats);
   Fire fuel loads if relevant; and,
   Any notable species observations.

This information is collected electronically and uploaded into a data system that generates work
orders for action. Annual Inspections will directly feed any necessary work actions into the Annual
Budget allocation process where such actions are warranted.



10.2.2      Expert Panel Condition Assessment Reviews
As part of the Reserve Prioritisation Process for this Plan, Noosa Council Natural Areas staff
assessed all reserves within the program against criteria for Condition, Invasive Species presence
and feasibility for rehabilitation.

For reserves that have had a Bushland Operational Assessment, will more accurately be able to
measure condition change, the Expert Panel process is recommended to repeat at the 5 year mark
to gauge the condition of the remainder of the bushland reserve network.

Comparison between the 2019 and 2024 scores will identify if any change in resilience condition,
weed infestation and consequential rehabilitation resource feasibility exists.


10.2.3      BOA / Ecological Restoration Plans
Biodiversity Operational Assessments (BOA’s) are the predominant ecological monitoring tool for
measuring change at the Reserve level where they are required according to the Reserve
Management Program category.

Repeating the BOA at regular 5 year intervals allows Council to monitor how the reserve is
responding to management actions and inform adaptive management processes.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                Page 48

Section 50

11. References
Marsh, H. et al (2007). Optimizing Allocation of Management Resources for Wildlife. Conservation
Biology Vol 21, No. 2 Pg. 387-399. Society for Conservation Biology.
McDonald T. (2011). Resilience-Based Condition Classification System – A tool for Bushland
Operational Assessment (BOA). Training Session Notes, Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
SEQC (2016). Managing Natural Assets for a Prosperous South East Queensland, South East
Queensland Catchments Ltd., Brisbane.
Eco Logical Australia (2016). Noosa Biodiversity Assessment Report. Prepared for Noosa Shire
Council.
Noosa Council (2015). Noosa Bushland Reserve Fire Management Plan 2015, Noosa Council,
Noosa.
Noosa Council (2016). Noosa Local Government Area Pest Management Plan 2015-19. Noosa
Council, Noosa
Noosa Council (2016). Noosa Shire Koala Conservation Plan 2016. Noosa Council, Noosa.
Noosa Council (2017). Corporate Plan 2017-2037. Noosa Council, Noosa.
Noosa Landcare (2017). Noosa Shire – Waterways Assessment 2017. Noosa & District Landcare
Group Inc. Pomona.
Chenoweth EPLA and Bushland Restoration Services (2012). South East Queensland Ecological
Restoration Framework: Guideline. Prepared on behalf of SEQ Catchments and South East
Queensland Local Governments, Brisbane.
Chenoweth EPLA and Bushland Restoration Services (2012). South East Queensland Ecological
Restoration Framework: Manual. Prepared on behalf of SEQ Catchments and South East
Queensland Local Governments, Brisbane.
Queensland Herbarium (2016). Regional Ecosystem Fire Guidelines (December 2016)
(Queensland Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation: Brisbane).
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005). Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Synthesis. Island
Press, Washington, DC.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                            Page 49

Section 51

12. Appendices
12.1 Appendix 1 – Noosa Bushland Reserves (Full List)
NAME                                                               AreaSqM       LOTPLAN
Active Riders Ground Reserve                                      19694.788   117MCH5050
Alec Loveday Bushland Reserve                                   12614.55078   603SP120122
Alex Dan Bushland Reserve                                       29884.68348     1RP216837
Alyxia Nature Refuge                                              229060.73   10RP865221
Arthur Harold Nature Refuge                                     3261837.153    6RP135678
                                                                              34SP215025
                                                                               3RP135678
                                                                               7RP135678
                                                                               5RP135678
Bagnalls Bushland Reserve (changed from Acacia Lane)               30016.33   100SP233492
Beach Park Noosa North Shore                                    41438.04517      27T16312
                                                                               47SP215028
Beach Road Nature Refuge                                         284030.693   900SP186169
Bill Huxley Nature Refuge                                        1762772.23   52SP215037
                                                                               26RP25570
                                                                               27RP25570
Binalong Bushland Reserve                                       12825.93628   20RP817358
                                                                               218MCH748
                                                                               19RP817358
Black Mountain Bushland Reserve                                 34329.10278   110RP896928
                                                                                6SP223694
Black Mountain School Park                                      1021.345703     6RP227335
Booyong Drive Bushland Reserve                                   351110.364   107SP248179
                                                                              103SP199350
                                                                              101SP177950
                                                                              102SP177950
                                                                              106SP248179
                                                                              105SP248179
                                                                              104SP241367
                                                                              100SP177950
Boronia Bushland Reserve                                         562539.375   36SP103599
                                                                              39SP152355
Brushtail Bushland Reserve                                      5312.430176   1021CG4155
Buffalo Bushland Reserve                                        1727.349854   48RP908665
                                                                                44RP59216
Bursaria Bushland Reserve                                       3676.883301   578MCH5292
                                                                               10MCH5425
Calanthe Bushland Reserve                                          54724.54    15SP223007
Cambridge Bushland Reserve                                       1866.91333    50RP863250
Caribbean Bushland Reserve                                      8070.213135   263CP897237
Carriage Way Bushland Reserve East                               26146.1084   102SP178333
                                                                              101SP178333
Carriage Way Bushland Reserve West                              19750.61304   200RP862543
                                                                               36RP894921
Carruthers Natural Amenity Reserve                              8383.695313    99RP881300
Castaways Beach Foreshore Reserve                                316617.512   159CP839188
                                                                              100SP111721


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                        Page 50

Section 52

Cedar Gully Bushland Park                                        58553.7229   995RP906094
Chestnut Court Natural Amenity Reserve                          5366.834473      1M11115
Clearview Drive Bushland Reserve                                26362.42188    15RP852017
Coconut Grove Natural Amenity Resereve                          894.9365234   132CP852091
Collwood Bushland Reserve                                       25165.23535   100SP158846
Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve                               37916.93701   210CP840281
Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve East (franz land)              1061303.79    25SP104706
Cooroibah Creek Natural Amenity Reserve                         23320.97729   704SP129573
Cooroibah Creek Park                                            36246.69035   703SP129573
Cooroibah Environmental Reserve                                 331848.2063     2RP136234
Cooroibah Regional Park                                          1629609.52     2RP165434
                                                                                4RP136234
                                                                              121RP100974
                                                                                2RP111976
Cooroora Creek Bushland Reserve - Songbird                      109627.1648   101SP177645
Cooroora Creek Park                                                 86781.4    37RP63022
                                                                               2RP122335
                                                                               14RP35080
Cooroora Creek Park riparian area                                  13941.74    37RP63022
                                                                                2RP122335
                                                                                14RP35080
Cooroora Mountain Bushland Reserve                              31508.54224    65SP213106
Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve                                      32776.42     1RP153299
                                                                              234MCH4082
                                                                              157MCH4833
                                                                                2RP153299
                                                                                5SP213104
                                                                                 2RP47020
                                                                                7SP173771
                                                                              206MCH2365
                                                                              214MCH2386
Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve - Marara Street                     175529.56      4RP32778
                                                                                1SP242414
Crank Crt Bushland Reserve                                          5814.88   503RP869156
Cranks Creek Park                                                 46098.045     6RP807208
                                                                              504RP869156
                                                                              503RP869156
Creek St Bushland Reserve                                            47064      10RP35098
                                                                                11RP35098
                                                                                12RP35098
                                                                               13RP35098
                                                                               14RP35098
                                                                                1RP35098
                                                                              20RP800332
                                                                               24RP35098
                                                                               26RP35098
                                                                               27RP35098
                                                                               28RP35098
                                                                               29RP35098
                                                                               30RP35098
                                                                               31RP35098
                                                                                3RP35098
                                                                                4RP35098
                                                                                5RP35098

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                        Page 51

Section 53

Croziers Bushland Reserve                                       38712.32349     4RP902775
Cudgerie Common Bushland Reserve                                235703.2886   986SP101378
                                                                              985SP111723
                                                                              994SP237588
                                                                              981SP125257
                                                                              989RP907721
                                                                              978SP157049
                                                                              979SP157049
                                                                              990RP907721
Dame Patti Bushland Reserve                                     10512.01416    28MCH4716
David Street Bushland Reserve                                   7198.228516    19RP901982
                                                                               45SP107909
Dianella Court Drainage Reserve                                 37815.03711   900SP176968
Dolphin Bay Drainage Reserve                                    16446.28589   225RP848432
                                                                              400RP810724
Doonella Wetlands Nature Refuge                                 229834.4033   299MCH1042
                                                                                6RP202272
                                                                                 1RP96489
Douglas Bushland Reserve                                        13709.59644     6SP215228
                                                                               33SP100812
                                                                               16MCH4768
Dr Pages Natural Amenity Reserve                                4456.268555     3RP885196
Driftwood Bushland Reserve                                        15689.854   503CP888721
                                                                              261CP897237
                                                                              504CP888721
Edington Drive Environmental Reserve                            382218.3213   100SP159617
                                                                              102SP208642
                                                                              103SP208642
Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve                                    204679.1799   500RP224720
                                                                              901RP861527
                                                                              902SP163309
                                                                              203RP903971
                                                                              900RP861527
                                                                              501RP224720
                                                                              904SP163309
                                                                              204RP903971
                                                                26801.52372   903SP163309
Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve - Walter Hay Drive                 113504.5693     3SP182845
                                                                115697.4071     5SP222982
Factory Street Bushland Reserve                                 11487.75635      3RP35077
Falls Creek Bushland Reserve                                    41919.15601   100SP129562
                                                                              101SP129562
Fellowship Drive Bushland Reserve                               91757.02905    77SP177938
Ferry Park Natural Amenity Reserve                              5567.108643   371MCH4432
Figtree Natural Amenity Reserve                                 22544.70361    18SP221473
Flagship Natural Amenity Reserve                                   11008.87    17CP907131
                                                                              501CP882292
                                                                              263CP897237
                                                                              502CP888722
Flooded Gum Bushland Reserve                                    176657.6233   977SP157049
                                                                              983SP110906
Forest Acres Bushland Network                                   401154.3877    19RP224529
                                                                              100SP230065
                                                                               56SP103503

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                        Page 52

Section 54

                                                                                55SP103503
                                                                                57SP129565
                                                                                58SP129565
                                                                                76RP840204
                                                                                53RP908175
                                                                                13SP110381
                                                                                26RP885219
                                                                                54RP908174
                                                                                12SP110381
                                                                                52RP905955
Fourways - Noosa Banks Riparian Reserve                           115491.54    376MCH4559
                                                                               706SP129573
                                                                               702SP129573
                                                                               703SP129573
Frogmouth Bushland Reserve                                      95323.53564    100SP167229
                                                                                 1RP171784
                                                                                 2RP168290
                                                                                 1RP168291
Frogmouth Bushland Reserve East                                 3508.484863      9SP221477
Galloways Bushland Reserve                                      14227.04932    300RP858522
Girraween Nature Refuge                                         1245342.771      1RP146310
                                                                                 1SP239726
                                                                                 9SP252905
                                                                               800SP252905
Gleneagles Bushland Reserve                                     19907.61963    900SP171711
                                                                                 0SP176866
                                                                               900SP171711
                                                                               244MCH4350
Glenridge Bushland Reserve                                      72575.27686     99RP860577
George Street Bushland reserve                                     27279.83    900SP284471
Gympie Street Esplanade                                             9944.24
Harlow Bushland Reserve                                          41165.0813    247MCH4387
Heathland Bushland Reserve                                        39498.479    991RP903853
                                                                                51RP903853
                                                                               502RP905749
                                                                               501RP868302
                                                                               992RP903853
Heritage Park Bushland Reserve                                  179987.0554    986RP897884
                                                                               985RP903403
                                                                               271MCH4647
                                                                               237MCH4283
                                                                               994RP860583
                                                                               991RP886723
                                                                               989RP897864
                                                                               993RP885233
                                                                               101RP855995
Homebase Bushland Reserve                                                         AAP20973
Illoura Bushland Reserve East                                   107463.6594     31SP110325
Illoura Bushland Reserve West                                   88736.27393     33SP115870
                                                                                31RP908172
                                                                                32RP908172
Kauri Bushland Reserve                                           11813.3606      5CP889589
Kin Kin Arboretum Park                                          26922.46265   240MCH802648
                                                                                401MCH1048

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                         Page 53

Section 55

Kin Kin Creek Bushland Reserve                                  85742.66748    296MCH987
                                                                               296MCH987
Kin Kin Creek Environmental Reserve                             49765.26733   102SP148789
                                                                              101SP148789
Kin Kin Entrance Bushland Reserve                                              14SP253952
Kin Kin Old Landfill Site                                            92014
Kings St Bushland Reserve                                          56303.96   100SP241388
Kingsgate Bushland Reserve Network                              121945.2253    92RP891146
                                                                               95RP891143
                                                                               75RP200340
                                                                               94RP891143
                                                                              96RP858042
                                                                              95RP886676
                                                                              97RP858042
                                                                              93RP891146
Lake Cooroibah Esplanade                                        42016.09849    50SP110391
Lake Cootharaba Bushland Reserve                                1115438.604   277MCH2958
                                                                              276SP140491
                                                                              300SP140491
Lake Doonella Bushland Reserve                                  759693.1772     5USL30950
                                                                                1RP802360
                                                                              504SP108677
                                                                              900SP190381
                                                                                71RP41223
                                                                              500RP867858
                                                                                2RP129288
                                                                                2SP104709
                                                                               22RP228935
                                                                                0SP142399
                                                                              502RP867858
                                                                              505SP108677
                                                                              503SP108685
                                                                              900SP221501
                                                                                1SP190381
                                                                              900SP190381
                                                                              503RP869156
                                                                              901SP221501
                                                                              901SP274003
                                                                              902SP274018
                                                                              903SP221501
                                                                              903SP274003
Lake Flat Rd Bushland Reserve                                     364292.99     4RP803972
Lake Weyba Drive Riparian Area                                  228454.2024    16SP100715
                                                                               51CP913574
Lakeside Bushland Reserve                                       57858.70679    51SP110391
                                                                               50SP110391
Liane Bushland Reserve                                          93582.51904    50RP899381
                                                                              279MCH3986
Livistona Bushland Reserve                                      370415.4575     885CG4618
                                                                              409RP887985
                                                                              401RP836908
                                                                              400RP836908
                                                                              412SP103439
                                                                              407RP856752

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Section 56

                                                                               406RP856752
                                                                               411SP103439
                                                                               410SP103439
Lomandra Place Bushland Reserve                                    22308.54    270MCH4647
                                                                               997RP860582
Lowry Bushland Reserve                                          93529.12012        1P93153
                                                                                4MCH842781
                                                                                4MCH842781
                                                                                  141P93141
                                                                                  2MCH4837
                                                                                  142P93146
                                                                                 357P93145
Lyndhurst Natural Amenity Reserve                               10865.08887     50RP883855
                                                                                17RP225101
Mackerel Street Foreshore Reserve                               6752.502197        25T9242
Mahogany Bushland Reserve                                       20136.73022       3M11114
                                                                                 9M111111
Marcus Beach Foreshore Reserve                                  128437.1284    159CP839188
Marcus Creek Bushland Reserve                                   31533.89233      6M111116
                                                                                  7M111117
                                                                                7MCH842016
Mary River Rd Bushland Reserve                                      8012.36      11SP246688
Mary Street Natural Amenity Reserve                             6528.476563       82RP36937
                                                                                 94RP36937
                                                                                 84RP36937
                                                                                 86RP36937
                                                                                 85RP36937
                                                                                 93RP36937
                                                                                 83RP36937
Moonare Bushland Reserve                                        10719.67212    308RP182275
Moonbeam Bushland Reserve                                       4287.710205    950CP900487
Murdering Creek Bushland Reserve                                30215.42773      14MCH5262
                                                                                  4MCH5262
Noosa Northshore Esplanade                                           18172
Noosa Northrise Future Bushland                                   49540.198     901SP221502
                                                                                900SP221502
Noosa River Esplanade                                           5199.145634     371MCH4432
                                                                1602.490243      50RP863250
                                                                 652.007511      22MCH4733
Noosa Woods Foreshore Reserve                                   310179.0662   114MCH839107
                                                                              115MCH839107
North Shore Environmental Reserve                               4279828.998       7MCH4562
Nylana Bushland Reserve                                         199075.4478     102SP114688
                                                                                103SP119126
                                                                                104SP138534
                                                                                101SP139161
                                                                                 13SP236303
                                                                                 14SP110329
                                                                               100SP139161
Oak Bushland Reserve                                            6064.184814    101SP185671
Orient Bushland Reserve North                                   10115.32299    217RP135364
Orient Bushland Reserve South                                   10538.71191    211RP135363
                                                                                   6N21840
Osprey Park                                                     29648.58447    159CP839188

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Section 57

Pacific View Bushland Reserve                                     103018.76   102SP281455
Palm Grove Bushland Reserve                                     26820.00781   246MCH4385
Park Road Foreshore Reserve                                        13750.29
Pearsons Drainage Reserve                                        29009.8042    51SP230052
                                                                              100SP170292
                                                                              100SP112631
                                                                              101SP208264
                                                                               52SP218735
                                                                               50SP230052
Penda Scrub Nature Refuge                                        81273.6438    12RP908915
Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve North                          296514.4729   159CP839188
Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve South                          197866.3921     4CP864962
                                                                                5CP864962
                                                                                7CP864962
                                                                                6CP864962
                                                                              159CP839188
Peregian Creek Reserve                                          21989.40698    26SP104277
Pig Island Esplanade                                            31440.22852   386MCH1667
Pinaroo Park Bushland Reserve                                    62528.1167    84SP248300
                                                                              15RP129286
                                                                              14RP129286
Pioneer Road Bushland Reserve                                   19228.86816    4SP129576
Quarry Track Bushland Reserve                                    370114.679   49SP215032
Rainforest Court Bushland Reserve                               3839.842529   999RP810610
Read Park Bushland Reserve                                      11894.15796       85T1632
                                                                               14SP295888
Redwood Avenue Natural Amenity Reserve                          9882.293457      5M11117
                                                                                 4M11114
Reef Street Bushland Reserve                                    9016.652588   961RP888261
Renshaw Bushland Reserve                                        2761.050293   130RP894894
Rifle Street Natural Amenity Reserve                            2887.328857       13P5015
Ringtail Bushland Reserve East                                  10610.75537      1RP35103
Sandalwood Close Natural Amenity Reserve                         1872.37085      2M11116
Satinay Bushland Reserve                                        37489.95996   269MCH4563
Senegal Rise Natural Amenity Reserve                            11783.30664   403RP836922
                                                                              402RP836922
Sheep Island esplanade
Shorehaven Bushland Reserve                                     67201.13477   930RP880347
                                                                              909SP236313
Silverwood Bushland Reserve                                     23950.87842   105RP888476
                                                                              107RP893431
Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Cooran Section                34979.65112   346MCH3970
Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Forest Acres                  163503.1914    62RP809837
                                                                               73RP813404
                                                                               30RP224527
                                                                              990RP899401
                                                                               58RP800432
                                                                               99RP883871
                                                                               2RP191238
Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Lillywhites                   8099.098877   20SP149229
                                                                               8RP805128
Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Plantation Lane               16122.72485   11RP913570
                                                                              10RP913596
Six Mile Creek Conservation Park                                134133.6504   348MCH974

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Section 58

Smedley Drive Bushland Reserve                                  37495.36157     3RP900971
                                                                              100SP137437
                                                                                4RP900971
Songbird Drive Bushland Reserve                                     1309.48   102SP177645
                                                                              103SP187321
Southern Cross Bushland Reserve                                     3979.52   669RP227918
Stormbird Bushland Reserve                                      3261.096436    47SP107909
                                                                               44SP107911
Straker Drive Natural Amenity Reserve                           6955.003662   102SP213111
Sundial Bushland Reserve                                            57138.8   900RP869127
                                                                              275MCH3932
Sunrise Beach Foreshore Reserve                                 107110.2593   149RP130983
                                                                              159CP839188
                                                                              159CP839188
Sunshine Beach Foreshore Reserve                                 144112.157   159CP839188
                                                                               9RP862531
                                                                              717RP48111
                                                                               51RP81810
                                                                               7MCH5211
                                                                              149RP130983
Symplocos Environmental Reserve                                 653695.4004   307SP137425
                                                                              365MCH4233
                                                                              500SP151417
                                                                              304SP133495
                                                                                2SP120982
                                                                              305SP133495
                                                                              306SP152282
                                                                              301SP129047
Symplocos Nature Refuge                                         378812.6821     4SP151417
Tanderra Drive Natural Amenity Reserve                          26838.78247   100SP161951
Tecoma Close Natural Amenity Reserve                            2464.449219     579P93148
Teewah Bushland Reserve                                         64105.41357    76SP215047
                                                                               78SP215048
                                                                               75SP215047
Tinbeerwah Bushland Reserve                                     128198.3855    98RP845990
                                                                              108MCH4731
Tinbeerwah Road Bushland Reserve                                53568.87451    60MCH1547
                                                                              278MCH3949
Topaz Street Bushland Reserve                                       6195.51      27C56014
                                                                                 28C56014
                                                                                 29C56014
                                                                                 30C56014
                                                                                 31C56014
Wahpunga School Park                                            16522.37378    249MCH618
Wallace Bushland Reserve                                        69670.55054   100SP169390
                                                                                3RP839623
                                                                                2RP839623
Waratah Close Natural Amenity Reserve                           17938.74365   104SP113205
                                                                              601SP120122
                                                                                1RP889434
Weyba Bridge Bushland Reserve                                   7071.056885   166MCH5254
Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North                              354303.6494   605SP195871
                                                                              606SP195871
                                                                              604SP188270

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                                                                              600SP188270
                                                                              601SP188268
                                                                                1SP110327
                                                                              602SP188268
Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve South                              293443.5745   900SP170964
                                                                              901SP170964
                                                                               30RP894005
                                                                              113MCH4128
Weyba Nature Refuge                                             1097761.528    77SP177938
Wirruna Drive Bushland Reserve                                  147911.1758   101SP173767
                                                                              102SP173767
                                                                              100SP173767
Woodhaven Bushland Reserve                                      278168.5537     1SP149475
                                                                              101SP179878
                                                                              100SP156380
                                                                              101SP191688
                                                                              200RP886248
Wooroi Creek Bushland Reserve                                    533654.834   410SP104286
                                                                              101SP145596
                                                                              102SP145596
Yatama Bushland Reserve                                            41483.27     9SP253957
Yellow Belly Hole Bushland Resreve                              93711.26318   103MCH3039
                                                                              117MCH5050
                                                                               91MCH1707
Yunaman Bushland Reserve                                        119007.6079   104SP151405
                                                                              901SP207311
                                                                              114SP188650
                                                                              105SP151410
                                                                              901SP207311
Yurol Nature Refuge                                             523738.5706      1RP35069




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Section 60

12.2 Appendix 2 – Noosa Environment Strategy – Relevant Themes & Outcomes
 Noosa Environment Strategy
                                  Noosa Environment Strategy 2019 Outcomes
 2019 Themes
                                  B. Priority ecosystem areas in Council’s bushland reserves are enhanced and managed to be responsive to changing environmental
                                  conditions.

                                  D. Ecological linkages and connecting habitat areas are improved and rehabilitated to increase landscape connectivity and species resilience.
 Biodiversity
                                  E. Community conservation partnerships on public and private land are developed to deliver successful biodiversity conservation outcomes.

                                  F. Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, as well as fauna and flora species, are protected from significant human impacts.

                                  B. Aquatic biodiversity is improved through the preservation and enhancement of diverse instream, riparian and wetland habitats.

                                  D. Waterways, wetlands and coastal environments are protected, managed and maintained in their natural state, and are enhanced to
 Waterways, wetlands and coasts   support healthy and diverse ecosystems.

                                  H. The impacts of human use are carefully managed to protect ecosystem health and visual amenity, as well as to ensure the sustainable use
                                  of waterways and foreshores for residents, visitors and commercial operators.

                                  A. Council and community greenhouse gas emissions are avoided, reduced and offset through strong Council leadership, pursuit of multiple
 Sustainable Living
                                  benefits and effective actions that are prioritised by impact.

                                  A. The Noosa Council and Noosa community are better prepared for natural hazards and climate change through identification and mapping
                                  of natural hazards, proactive planning, risk reduction and information sharing.

                                  B. Noosa’s natural environment is prepared for climate change through the maintenance, restoration and increase of healthy, well-
 Climate change adaptation and    functioning ecosystems that facilitate diversity and movement of species both within and beyond Noosa Shire.
 resilience
                                  D. Risk assessments, climate adaptation and disaster management are well integrated and use best available information to inform decision-
                                  making, systems and processes.
                                  F. Understanding of likely responses of biodiversity and ecosystems to climate change is improved over time and management programs are
                                  adjusted where necessary.




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Section 61

12.3 Appendix 3 – Reserve Prioritisation Methodology

 Reserve Values
 Criterion                Criterion                Scoring System                                   Data Source                                    Strategic Alignment
                          Justification
 Biodiversity Values
 Reserve Size             Larger sizes generally   0 = <1 ha                                        NC Draft Prioritisation Matrix – provided to   Link to the Noosa
                          have higher              1 = 1 – 5 ha                                     NDLG                                           Biodiversity Conservation
                          biodiversity value       2 = 5 -10 ha                                                                                    Plan 2017
                                                   3 = 10-50 ha
                                                   4 = 50 -100
                                                   5 = >100 ha
                                                   Largest reserve is 324ha
 Connectivity             Reserves with            0 = urban, roads, waterbodies.                   Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017           Link to the Noosa
                          greater connectivity     1 = cleared, scattered trees, sparse regrowth,   Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_Patch_Connectivity_         Biodiversity Conservation
                          generally have higher    patch with no or lower order connection to       v2                                             Plan 2017
                          biodiversity value       node.
                                                   2 =patch with indirect (2nd/3rd level)           The adjacency scoring of the Patch
                                                   connection to node (core/edge).                  Connectivity layer was used. Adjacency
                                                   3 = patch with direct connection to node.        scoring assesses the proximity between
                                                   4 = small node - unsupported (not connected      habitat nodes (i.e. supported nodes) or the
                                                   to another node).                                degree of connection of patches to nodes.
                                                   5 = small node, medium and large nodes –
                                                   supported.                                       The Patch Connectivity layer was
                                                                                                    developed based on Queensland Offsets
                                                                                                    Policy – Landscape Fragmentation Tool.
 % Of Remnant             Reserves with higher     0= ≥50% Urban, roads, water bodies and           Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017           Link to the Noosa
 Vegetation, % of         percentage of            cleared.                                                                                        Biodiversity Conservation
                                                                                                    Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_EcoCondition_v3
 regrowth, % of cleared   remnant generally        3= ≥50% scattered regrowth and scattered                                                        Plan 2017
 land                     have higher              trees.                                           The urban overlay was created by selecting
                          biodiversity value       5 = ≥ 50% Disturbed/continuous regrowth/         applicable residential, industrial,
                                                   plantation and Disturbed continuous/             commercial and community services zones
                                                   remnant.                                         from the IPZ zones layer. These were
                                                                                                    buffered out, then in by 100m to remove
                                                                                                    gaps for roads. Reserves under 0.3ha and
                                                                                                    surrounded by urban areas were captured
                                                                                                    under this urban classification.


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Section 62

 Reserve Values
 Criterion                Criterion               Scoring System                                  Data Source                                   Strategic Alignment
                          Justification
                                                                                                  RE code: RE v9.0 and field validation.
 RE Conservation          Reserves with           0 = urban area*                                 Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017          Link to the Noosa
 Status                   ‘Endangered’ or ‘Of     1 = plantation                                                                                Biodiversity Conservation
                                                                                                  Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_cons_status_v2
                          Concern’ vegetation     2 = Least concern / sub-dominant regionally                                                   Plan 2017
                          have higher             significant
                                                                                                  Attribution:
                          conservation            3 = Regionally significant / sub- dominant of
                          significance than       concern                                             Selected based on REs assigned as
                          those without.          4 = Of concern / sub-dominant endangered               per base layer methods in the
                                                  5 = Endangered                                         biodiversity plan assessment
                                                                                                      First RE in multi RE polys is
                                                                                                         dominant, RE 2-5 = sub dominant
                                                                                                      Applied only to remnant, contiguous
                                                                                                         remnant and dense regrowth areas
                                                                                                         in the ecological condition layer
                                                                                                      Applied to sparse regrowth and
                                                                                                         scattered trees if status was
                                                                                                         identified as Endangered

                                                                                                  RE code: RE v9.0 and field validation.
 EPBC Threatened          Reserves with EPBC      0 = Not a TEC                                   Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017          Links to Recovery Plans &
 Ecological               listed Ecological       2 = Potential to be TEC sub- dominant                                                         Conservation Advice
                                                                                                  Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_TECs_v2
 Communities              Communities have        3 = Potential to be TEC                                                                       Statements under
                          higher conservation     4 = TEC sub-dominant                            RE code: RE v9.0 and field validation.        Commonwealth Legislation
                          significance than       5 = TEC
                          those without.                                                                                                        Noosa Biodiversity
                                                                                                                                                Conservation Plan 2017
 Habitat for species of   Reserves with known     0 = no record and not mapped essential          Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017          Links to Recovery Plans &
 Conservation Value       habitat or mapped       habitat                                                                                       Conservation Advice
                                                                                                  Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_Species_presence_v2
                          essential habitat for   1= record in marginal habitat (sparse                                                         Statements under State and
                          species of              regrowth, scattered trees, cleared) and not     This data source incorporates:                Commonwealth Legislation
                          conservation value      mapped essential habitat                            Atlas of Living Australia (2016)
                          have higher             2 = confirmed record for locally significant        Wildlife Online (2016)                   Noosa Biodiversity
                          conservation            3 = confirmed record for regional significant       Significant species list (Appendix A &   Conservation Plan 2017
                          significance            4 = confirmed record or mapped essential               B of biodiversity assessment report)
                                                  habitat for NT                                      Base layer

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Section 63

 Reserve Values
 Criterion                Criterion                Scoring System                                  Data Source                                     Strategic Alignment
                          Justification
                                                   5 = confirmed habitat or mapped essential           HL&W – Essential Habitat Maps, EHP         Noosa Shire Koala
                                                   habitat for V/E/M                                    Essential Habitat Maps                     Conservation Plan 2015-19

                                                                                                   Reserves that hold species that are
                                                                                                   NT/V/E/M and were not identified in the
                                                                                                   Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset were given
                                                                                                   confirmed status and a scoring of 4 or 5.

                                                                                                   The presence of Acid frogs in reserves were
                                                                                                   given a score of 5. Under the EPBC Act only
                                                                                                   the Wallum Sedge frog is listed as
                                                                                                   vulnerable, though a national recovery plan
                                                                                                   has been devised for Wallum dependent
                                                                                                   frog species including the Cooloola
                                                                                                   sedgefrog, wallum rocketfrog and wallum
                                                                                                   froglet. All species are listed as vulnerable
                                                                                                   or endangered by the by the World
                                                                                                   Conservation Union (IUCN).
 Under represented        Reserves with under-     0 = medium to high preservation in Noosa &      Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017            Link to the Noosa
 RE’s / CARR              represented              medium to high preservation in SEQ                                                              Biodiversity Conservation
                                                                                                   Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_UnderRepREs_v2
                          vegetation               1 = low preservation in Noosa & medium to                                                       Plan 2017
                          communities in the       high preservation in SEQ
                                                                                                   Based on the representation of RE’s in
                          protected area estate    2 = medium to high preservation in Noosa &
                                                                                                   protected areas across the whole shire,
                          have higher              low preservation in SEQ
                                                                                                   including nature refuges and National Park.
                          conservation value.      3 = low preservation in Noosa and low
                                                   preservation in SEQ
                                                                                                   RE code: RE v9.0 and field validation.
 For comparison / reference purposes – Additional criterion are included in the above process
 Noosa Biodiversity      High Biodiversity       0 to 20th percentile (biodiversity significance   Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017            Link to the Noosa
 Plan Assessment         Score rank in           score of 0-3)                                                                                     Biodiversity Conservation
                                                                                                   comb_values_241016_withRE_topo
 Report Overall Value    Assessment Report       21st to 40th percentile (biodiversity                                                             Plan 2017
 Ranking                 equates to high         significance score of 4-6)
                         biodiversity value.     41st to 60th percentile (biodiversity
                                                 significance score of 7-14)
                                                 61st to 80th percentile (biodiversity
                                                 significance score of 15-19)

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Section 64

 Reserve Values
 Criterion               Criterion                 Scoring System                                     Data Source                                  Strategic Alignment
                         Justification
                                                   81st to 100th percentile (biodiversity
                                                   significance score of 20-38)
 Water Quality Values
 Waterways or            Existence of              Waterway                                           Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017         Link to Mary and Noosa River
 Wetland Presence or     waterway or wetland       0 = not present                                    Noosa_bio_plan_wetlands                      Plans
 value                   within reserve            1 = present                                        Noosa Council dataset
                         identifies the value of                                                                                                   Noosa Biodiversity
                         the reserve for water                                                        MajorWatercourses_polyline                   Conservation Plan 2017
                         quality contribution.     Wetland
                                                   0 = not a wetland
                                                   1 = artificial wetland, highly modified wetlands
                                                   & community containing small areas of
                                                   wetlands (0-51%)
                                                   2 = community containing wetlands (51%-80%)
                                                   3 = VMA wetlands
                                                   4 = Wetlands of High Ecological Significance
                                                   5 = National Important Wetlands
 Groundwater /           Existence of              0 = not present                                    Healthy Land and Water data set              Link to Mary and Noosa River
 Aquifer Values –        groundwater               3 = discharge area                                 Water Source Clip *Identifies ground water   Plans
 recharge or discharge   recharge or discharge     5 = recharge area                                  recharge areas
 areas                   area identifies the
                         value of the reserve                                                         Queensland Government Data
                         for aquifer water                                                            Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE)
                         quality and quantity                                                         surface expression area and lines
                                                                                                      *Identifies areas of groundwater discharge

                                                                                                      Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017
                                                                                                      Noosa_bio_plan_wetlands *Identifies areas
                                                                                                      of groundwater discharge
 Carbon Sink Values
 Existing carbon         Existing Carbon           0 - non remnant or largely cleared                 Qld Herbarium (Don Butler) developed         Link to NC Climate Change
 storage value –         storage within each       1 - <1000 CO2t                                     specifically for project. Average Carbon     Adaptation Plan & NC
 remnant vegetation      reserve varies with       2 - 1001-5000 CO2t                                 storage per hectare for each Broad           Emissions Reduction Policy
 area and type                                     3 - 5001 - 20,000 CO2t                             Vegetation Group. Each reserve total         /Plan


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Section 65

 Reserve Values
 Criterion              Criterion              Scoring System                                 Data Source                                    Strategic Alignment
                        Justification
                        regards to different   4 - 20,001 - 60,000 CO2t                       storage calculated based on BVG group
                        vegetation types.      5 - 60,000 + CO2t                              present and extent of remnant vegetation
                                                                                              present.
 Social Values
 Recreational Value     Reserves with higher   0 = No use                                     Noosa Council Staff score allocation           Link to Open Space Plan
                        usage have higher      1 = Low Use
                        recreational value.    3 = Medium Use
                                               5 = High Use
 Landscape Amenity      Reserves within or     0 = >500m from Urban Area                      Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017           Link to Open Space Plan
 Value – proximity to   close to urban areas   1 = <500m from Urban Area
                                                                                              Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_EcoCondition_v3
 urban areas            hold higher
                        landscape value.                                                      The urban overlay was created by selecting
                                                                                              applicable residential, industrial,
                                                                                              commercial and community services zones
                                                                                              from the IPZ zones layer. These were
                                                                                              buffered out, then in by 100m to remove
                                                                                              gaps for roads.
 Cultural Value
 Indigenous Cultural    n/a                    0 = unknown                                    Data has been sourced from the following:      Link to Cultural Heritage Act
 Heritage Values                               1 = potential recorded data within a 500m             Indigenous Cultural Heritage           1993
                                               buffer from a particular Lot/Plan (reserve).            Study of Noosa Shire April 2004
                                               2 = known within reserve                              Sunshine Coast Aboriginal              NC Arts Culture & Heritage
                                                                                                       Cultural Heritage Report: An          Plan
                                                                                                       analysis and collaboration of
                                                                                                       available data June 2009
                                                                                                     Queensland Government’s
                                                                                                       Department of Aboriginal and
                                                                                                       Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
                                                                                                       (cultural heritage database and
                                                                                                       register)
 Non-Indigenous         n/a                    0 = unknown                                    Data has been sourced from the following:      Link to Cultural Heritage Act
 Cultural Heritage                             1 = potential recorded data within a 500m             Cultural Heritage Overlay from         1993
 Values                                        buffer from a particular Lot/Plan (reserve).            the Noosa Plan 2006
                                               2 = known within reserve                                                                      NC Arts Culture & Heritage
                                                                                                                                             Plan

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Section 66

 Potential for Successful Outcomes
 Criterion                  Criterion               Scoring System                                     Data Source                         Strategic Alignment
                            Contribution
 Potential for biological recovery (technical feasibility of fixing problems)
 Ecological Condition       Reserves with poorer 0 = poor condition (contains a large number of        Expert Panel Contributions          Noosa Local Government
 and trajectory             condition have less     invasive species that are increasing in area and                                       Area Pest Management Plan
                            potential for           native vegetation lacks structural and species                                         2015-19
                            biological recovery.    complexity) Requires a large amount of
                                                    resourcing over an extended time (greater                                              Noosa Biodiversity
                                                    than 5 years) to improve condition to fair                                             Conservation Plan 2017
                                                    however has a high risk of failure.
                                                    1= fair, contains some invasive species but
                                                    native vegetation exhibits a good range of
                                                    species diversity and structural diversity.
                                                    Requires regular and targeted intervention to
                                                    manage invasive species to improve reserve to
                                                    moderate condition.
                                                    2= moderate. Contains low populations of
                                                    invasive species covering a small area of the
                                                    reserve such as the edge and native vegetation
                                                    is structurally and species diverse. Targeted
                                                    management over 3 to 5 years will convert the
                                                    reserve to pristine condition.
                                                    3= pristine condition. No invasive species
                                                    present, Native vegetation has intact structural
                                                    and species diversity with no disturbance.
                                                    Requires regular monitoring and early
                                                    intervention activities to manage any invasive
                                                    species recruitment.
 Biodiversity Invasive      Reserves with           0- Contains high populations of invasive           1) Pest Info / Collector App data   Noosa Local Government
 species existence          existence of certain        species                                                                            Area Pest Management Plan
                            weeds and feral         1- Contains scattered populations of invasive      2) Expert Panel Contribution        2015-19
                            animals that have           species
                            high impact to          2- Contains no invasive species                                                        Noosa Biodiversity
                            biodiversity value,                                                                                            Conservation Plan 2017
                            have less potential



Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                                  Page 65

Section 67

 Potential for Successful Outcomes
 Criterion            Criterion              Scoring System                                   Data Source                              Strategic Alignment
                      Contribution
                      for biological
                      recovery.
 Climate change       Broad vegetation       0= temp sensitive/exposed and sensitive SLR      Noosa Biodiversity Plan 2017.            Link to NC Climate Change
 resilience rating    groups that are less   1= temp sensitive/not exposed to SLR             Noosa_SL_temp_sensitivity_exposure       Adaptation Plan, NC
 (temperature, sea    vulnerable to climate 2= Not exposed/not sensitive                                                               Emissions Reduction Policy
 level rise)          change exhibit higher                                                                                            /Plan & Coastal Management
                      viability for                                                                                                    Plan
                      biodiversity value
                      retention.
 Ongoing Management Requirements (costs and resource required)
 Resourcing Effort    Higher costs to        0 = Requires a large amount of resourcing over   Expert Panel contributions informed by   Noosa Local Government
                      enhance biodiversity an extended time (greater than 5 years) to         historical resourcing levels and site    Area Pest Management Plan
                      value equates to       improve condition to pristine however has a      knowledge.                               2015-19
                      greater resource       high risk of failure.
                      allocation required.   1 = Requires significant ongoing and targeted                                             Noosa Biodiversity
                                             intervention to manage invasive species to                                                Conservation Plan 2017
                                             improve reserve to pristine condition.
                                             2 = Targeted moderate resource management
                                             over 3 to 5 years will convert the reserve to
                                             pristine condition.
                                             3 = Requires regular monitoring and early
                                             intervention activities to manage any invasive
                                             species recruitment.
 Active Volunteer     Active Volunteer       0 - No volunteer group present                   NSC Staff allocation                     Noosa Biodiversity
 Group present        Groups provide         1 - low level active volunteer group present                                              Conservation Plan 2017
                      volunteer labour to    2 - medium level active volunteer group
                      assist with the        present
                      management of          3 - High level active group present
                      reserve.
 Nature Refuge Status Nature Refuge status 1 - Not a Nature Refuge                            NSC Staff allocation                     Noosa Biodiversity
                      enables additional     2 - Is a nature Refuge                                                                    Conservation Plan 2017
                      funding                                                                 Queensland Government dataset
                      opportunities for                                                       Nature refuges – Queensland
                      management
                      resources.

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                         Page 66

Section 68

 Potential for Successful Outcomes
 Criterion              Criterion              Scoring System                                  Data Source                              Strategic Alignment
                        Contribution
 Future vegetation      Carbon storage         0 = Reserve contains all remnant veg            Noosa Biodiversity Plan Dataset 2017     Link to NC Climate Change
 offsets and carbon     potential provides     1 = Reserve contains regrowth or cleared land                                            Adaptation Plan & NC
                                                                                               comb_values_241016_withRE_topo
 sequestering offsets   opportunity for        with a pre clear Of concern RE                                                           Emissions Reduction Policy
 value – regrowth or    additional             2 = Reserve contains regrowth or cleared land   Noosa_bio_plan_ph2_cons_status_v2        /Plan
 cleared vegetation     investment through     with a pre clear endangered RE
 type                   Carbon Offsets                                                         RE code: RE v9.0 and field validation.
                        (cleared and
                        regrowth areas
                        available and scales
                        again by vegetation
                        type)* tree carbon
                        only calculated.




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                          Page 67

Section 69

12.4 Appendix 4 – Reserve Prioritisation Results & Tier Level
 RESERVE       RESERVE NAME                                                    PRIORITY
 TIER                                                                          SCORE
           1   Yurol Nature Refuge                                            157.6934343
           1   Weyba Nature Refuge                                            150.5159452
           1   Symplocos Environmental Reserve                                145.9459596
           1   Lake Cootharaba Bushland Reserve                               142.6580808
           1   Arthur Harold Nature Refuge                                    141.4736652
           1   Cooroibah Conservation Park                                    140.5699856
           1   Alyxia Nature Refuge                                           138.5661616
           1   Cudgerie Common Bushland Reserve                               137.5733766
           1   Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve South                             135.6444444
           1   Galloways Bushland Reserve                                     135.3545455
           1   Bill Huxley Nature Refuge                                      135.1056999
           1   Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Forest Acres                 134.0717172
           1   Kingsgate Bushland Reserve Network                             133.9647908
           1   Lake Doonella Bushland Reserve                                 132.9445166
           1   Cooroora Creek Park                                            132.0691919
           1   Yellow Belly Hole Bushland Resreve                             130.8472583
           1   Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Lillywhites                  130.5287879
           1   Beach Road Nature Refuge                                       129.5145743
           1   Heritage Park Bushland Reserve                                 128.8136364
           1   Liane Bushland Reserve                                         128.3505051
           1   Active Riders Ground Reserve                                     126.07886
               Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve - Walter Hay Drive (add futures
           1   environmental reserve)                                         125.8163059
           1   Wahpunga School Park                                           125.2632756
           1   Fourways - Noosa Banks Riparian Reserve                        124.4500722
           1   Booyong Drive Bushland Reserve                                 122.3663059
           1   Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve - Marara Street                  122.0663059
           1   Kin Kin Creek Bushland Reserve                                 120.7617605
           1   Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve                              120.6120491
           1   Lake Cooroibah Esplanade                                       120.2371573
           1   Peregian Creek Reserve                                         119.8274892
           1   Girraween Nature Refuge                                        119.5444444
           1   Wooroi Creek Bushland Reserve                                  119.4486291
           1   Frogmouth Bushland Reserve                                     119.2520202
           1   Penda Scrub Nature Refuge                                      118.4954545
           1   Dr Pages Natural Amenity Reserve                               118.1348485
           2   Livistona Bushland Reserve                                     118.0585859
           2   Binalong Bushland Reserve                                      117.8520202
           2   North Shore Environmental Reserve                              117.4570707
           2   Cooroora Creek Park riparian area                               117.148557
           2   Cooroora Creek Bushland Reserve - Songbird                     116.7765512
           2   Lake Weyba Drive Riparian Area                                 116.3183261
           2   Murdering Creek Bushland Reserve                               115.4630592

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                  Page 68

Section 70

 RESERVE       RESERVE NAME                                            PRIORITY
 TIER                                                                  SCORE
           2   Flooded Gum Bushland Reserve                           115.2693362
           2   Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve                           114.9821068
           2   Edington Drive Environmental Reserve                    114.977417
           2   Sheep Island esplanade                                 114.8577201
           2   Tinbeerwah Bushland Reserve                            114.6308081
           2   Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve                          113.0265512
           2   Lake Flat Rd Bushland Reserve                          111.9525253
           2   Forest Acres Bushland Network                           110.727417
           2   Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Cooran Section       110.0868687
           2   Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve East (franz land)    109.8698413
           2   Cedar Gully Bushland Park                              109.5723665
           2   Illoura Bushland Reserve East                          108.5767677
           2   Woodhaven Bushland Reserve                             108.4373737
           2   Cooroibah Environmental Reserve                        108.1718615
           2   Pioneer Road Bushland Reserve                               108.05
           2   Smedley Drive Bushland Reserve                         107.8823232
           2   Kin Kin Creek Environmental Reserve                    107.4465368
           2   Fellowship Drive Bushland Reserve                      106.4158009
           2   Noosa River Esplanade                                  106.3663781
           2   Symplocos Nature Refuge                                105.0873737
           2   Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North                      105.058658
           2   Yunaman Bushland Reserve                               104.8700577
           2   Teewah Bushland Reserve                                104.5925685
           2   Falls Creek Bushland Reserve                           104.5905483
           2   Boronia Bushland Reserve                               103.6656566
           2   Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Plantation Lane      103.1979798
           2   Calanthe Bushland Reserve                              102.9006494
           2   Tinbeerwah Road Bushland Reserve                       102.7469697
           2   Factory Street Bushland Reserve                        102.4097403
           2   Illoura Bushland Reserve West                          102.3025253
           3   Noosa Northshore Esplanade                              102.237518
           3   Lakeside Bushland Reserve                              102.0092352
           3   Bagnalls Bushland Reserve (changed from Acacia Lane)   101.6080808
           3   Yatama Bushland Reserve                                101.3888889
           3   Moonbeam Bushland Reserve                              100.9602453
           3   Quarry Track Bushland Reserve                          100.9287879
           3   Gleneagles Bushland Reserve                            100.8945887
           3   Noosa Woods Foreshore Reserve                          100.7720058
           3   Gympie Street Esplanade                                100.4036075
           3   Pig Island Esplanade                                   99.88196248
           3   Weyba Bridge Bushland Reserve                          99.09372294
           3   Silverwood Bushland Reserve                            98.72070707
           3   Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve North                 98.46334776
           3   Osprey Park                                             98.4523088


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026          Page 69

Section 71

 RESERVE       RESERVE NAME                                      PRIORITY
 TIER                                                            SCORE
           3   Cooroora Mountain Bushland Reserve               98.38766234
           3   Lowry Bushland Reserve                           98.37034632
           3   Ringtail Bushland Reserve East                   98.16767677
           3   Doonella Wetlands Nature Refuge                  97.58492063
           3   Wirruna Drive Bushland Reserve                   97.06327561
           3   Satinay Bushland Reserve                         96.58968254
           3   Kin Kin Old Landfill Site                        96.56010101
           3   Douglas Bushland Reserve                         95.48333333
           3   Marcus Creek Bushland Reserve                    95.25887446
           3   George Street Bushland reserve                   94.03455988
           3   Alex Dan Bushland Reserve                        93.71284271
           3   Clearview Drive Bushland Reserve                 93.12575758
           3   Pacific View Bushland Reserve                    92.87171717
           3   Ferry Park Natural Amenity Reserve               92.49206349
           3   Croziers Bushland Reserve                        92.35555556
           3   Wallace Bushland Reserve                         91.26969697
           3   Cooroibah Creek Park                             89.66522367
           3   Pinaroo Park Bushland Reserve                    89.23037518
           3   Collwood Bushland Reserve                        89.05757576
           3   Dolphin Bay Drainage Reserve                     89.03203463
           3   Kin Kin Entrance Bushland Reserve                88.13953824
           4   Kin Kin Arboretum Park                           84.86760462
           4   Senegal Rise Natural Amenity Reserve             84.26868687
           4   Buffalo Bushland Reserve                         83.71168831
           4   Mahogany Bushland Reserve                        83.33614719
           4   Nylana Bushland Reserve                          83.27070707
           4   Bursaria Bushland Reserve                        82.90468975
           4   Marcus Beach Foreshore Reserve                   82.87142857
           4   Caribbean Bushland Reserve                       82.83614719
           4   Pearsons Drainage Reserve                        82.78852814
           4   Creek St Bushland Reserve                        82.40721501
           4   Reef Street Bushland Reserve                     81.97034632
           4   Brushtail Bushland Reserve                       81.93282828
           4   Sunshine Beach Foreshore Reserve                 81.37799423
           4   Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve South           81.18556999
           4   Figtree Natural Amenity Reserve                  80.45959596
           4   Harlow Bushland Reserve                          79.92301587
           4   Glenridge Bushland Reserve                       79.85707071
           4   Rainforest Court Bushland Reserve                 79.2517316
           4   Cooroibah Creek Natural Amenity Reserve          78.71493506
           4   Beach Park Noosa North Shore                     78.60050505
           4   Crank Crk Bushland Reserve                       78.32748918
           4   Palm Grove Bushland Reserve                      77.48867244
           4   Stormbird Bushland Reserve                       77.28059163


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026    Page 70

Section 72

 RESERVE       RESERVE NAME                                      PRIORITY
 TIER                                                            SCORE
           4   Renshaw Bushland Reserve                         77.26363636
           4   Noosa Northrise Future Bushland                  77.05721501
           4   Rifle Street Natural Amenity Reserve             76.78347763
           4   Alec Loveday Bushland Reserve                    76.67344877
           4   Moonare Bushland Reserve                         76.37907648
           4   Castaways Beach Foreshore Reserve                76.13145743
           4   Cranks Creek Park                                76.05909091
           4   Dame Patti Bushland Reserve                      74.57070707
           4   Coconut Grove Natural Amenity Resereve           74.17741703
           4   Sandalwood Close Natural Amenity Reserve         72.66479076
           4   Lyndhurst Natural Amenity Reserve                 70.3001443
           4   Dianella Court Drainage Reserve                  69.31529582
           5   Carriage Way Bushland Reserve East               68.88737374
           5   Park Road Foreshore Reserve                      68.06883117
           5   Homebase Bushland Reserve                        66.34343434
           5   Tecoma Close Natural Amenity Reserve             66.23802309
           5   Driftwood Bushland Reserve                       65.70923521
           5   Kings St Bushland Reserve                        64.61291486
           5   Frogmouth Bushland Reserve East                  64.58585859
           5   Straker Drive Natural Amenity Reserve            64.10569986
           5   David Street Bushland Reserve                    63.58867244
           5   Oak Bushland Reserve                             62.65873016
           5   Sunrise Beach Foreshore Reserve                  62.10887446
           5   Waratah Close Natural Amenity Reserve            61.81385281
           5   Mary Street Natural Amenity Reserve              61.73297258
           5   Orient Bushland Reserve South                    60.88347763
           5   Carriage Way Bushland Reserve West                60.5969697
           5   Shorehaven Bushland Reserve                      58.79458874
           5   Mackerel Street Foreshore Reserve                57.62337662
           5   Flagship Natural Amenity Reserve                 56.81630592
           5   Songbird Drive Bushland Reserve                  54.37049062
           5   Kauri Bushland Reserve                           51.60569986
           5   Heathland Bushland Reserve                       50.67135642
           5   Tanderra Drive Natural Amenity Reserve           50.56529582
           5   Lomandra Place Bushland Reserve                  49.97691198
           5   Carruthers Natural Amenity Reserve               48.59054834
           5   Black Mountain Bushland Reserve                  48.46919192
           5   Topaz Street Bushland Reserve                    48.32135642
           5   Sundial Bushland Reserve                         46.80663781
           5   Redwood Avenue Natural Amenity Reserve           44.39249639
           5   Read Park Bushland Reserve                       43.81883117
           5   Mary River Rd Bushland Reserve                   38.37590188
           5   Cambridge Bushland Reserve                       35.43650794
           5   Southern Cross Bushland Reserve                  35.40836941


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026    Page 71

Section 73

 RESERVE       RESERVE NAME                                      PRIORITY
 TIER                                                            SCORE
           5   Orient Bushland Reserve North                    33.69408369
           5   Black Mountain School Park                        32.8510101
           5   Chestnut Court Natural Amenity Reserve           21.88852814




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026    Page 72

Section 74

12.5 Appendix 5 – Allocated Reserve Management Category & Planning
     Mechanism
                                                                                             Planning
                                                        Prioritisation     Management
 Reserve                                                                                    Mechanisms
                                                             Tier        Program Category
                                                                                             Required
 Active Riders Ground Reserve                                 1              Enhance           BOA
 Alec Loveday Bushland Reserve                                4              Monitor           Nil
 Alex Dan Bushland Reserve                                    3              Enhance           BOA
 Alyxia Nature Refuge                                         1              Protect           Nil
 Arthur Harold Nature Refuge                                  1              Enhance           BOA
 Bagnalls Bushland Reserve (changed from Acacia Lane)         3              Enhance           BOA
 Beach Park Noosa North Shore                                 4              Monitor           Nil
 Beach Road Nature Refuge                                     1              Protect           Nil
 Bill Huxley Nature Refuge                                    1              Protect           Nil
 Binalong Bushland Reserve                                    2              Enhance           BOA
 Black Mountain Bushland Reserve                              5              Monitor           Nil
 Black Mountain School Park                                   5              Monitor           Nil
 Booyong Drive Bushland Reserve                               1              Enhance           BOA
 Boronia Bushland Reserve                                     2              Protect           Nil
 Brushtail Bushland Reserve                                   4              Monitor           Nil
 Buffalo Bushland Reserve                                     4              Monitor           Nil
 Bursaria Bushland Reserve                                    4              Monitor           Nil
 Calanthe Bushland Reserve                                    2              Protect           Nil
 Cambridge Bushland Reserve                                   5              Monitor           Nil
 Caribbean Bushland Reserve                                   4              Monitor           Nil
 Carriage Way Bushland Reserve East                           5              Monitor           Nil
 Carriage Way Bushland Reserve West                           5              Monitor           Nil
 Carruthers Natural Amenity Reserve                           5              Monitor            Nil
                                                                                            Management
 Castaways Beach Foreshore Reserve
                                                              4              Monitor           Plan
 Cedar Gully Bushland Park                                    2              Enhance           BOA
 Chestnut Court Natural Amenity Reserve                       5              Monitor           Nil
 Clearview Drive Bushland Reserve                             3              Protect           Nil
 Coconut Grove Natural Amenity Resereve                       4              Monitor           Nil
 Collwood Bushland Reserve                                    3              Protect           Nil
 Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve                            1              Protect           Nil
 Cooloothin Creek Bushland Reserve East (franz land)          2              Protect           Nil
 Cooroibah Creek Natural Amenity Reserve                      4              Monitor           Nil
 Cooroibah Creek Park                                         3              Protect           Nil
 Cooroibah Environmental Reserve                              2              Protect           Nil
 Cooroibah Regional Park                                      1              Protect           Nil
 Cooroora Creek Bushland Reserve - Songbird                   2              Enhance           BOA
 Cooroora Creek Park                                          1              Enhance           ERP


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                                Page 73

Section 75

                                                                                         Planning
                                                    Prioritisation     Management
 Reserve                                                                                Mechanisms
                                                         Tier        Program Category
                                                                                         Required
 Cooroora Creek Park riparian area                        2              Enhance           ERP
 Cooroora Mountain Bushland Reserve                       3              Protect           Nil
 Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve                            2              Enhance           BOA
 Cooroy Creek Bushland Reserve - Marara Street            1              Enhance           BOA
 Crank Crt Bushland Reserve                               4              Monitor           Nil
 Cranks Creek Park                                        4              Monitor           Nil
 Creek St Bushland Reserve                                4              Monitor           Nil
 Croziers Bushland Reserve                                3              Enhance           BOA
 Cudgerie Common Bushland Reserve                         1              Enhance           BOA
 Dame Patti Bushland Reserve                              4              Monitor           Nil
 David Street Bushland Reserve                            5              Monitor           Nil
 Dianella Court Drainage Reserve                          4              Monitor           Nil
 Dolphin Bay Drainage Reserve                             3              Protect           Nil
 Doonella Wetlands Nature Refuge                          3              Enhance           BOA
 Douglas Bushland Reserve                                 3              Protect           Nil
 Dr Pages Natural Amenity Reserve                         1              Protect           Nil
 Driftwood Bushland Reserve                               5              Monitor           Nil
 Edington Drive Environmental Reserve                     2              Protect           Nil
 Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve                             2              Protect           Nil
 Eenie Creek Bushland Reserve - Walter Hay Drive          1              Protect           Nil
 Factory Street Bushland Reserve                          2              Enhance           BOA
 Falls Creek Bushland Reserve                             2              Enhance           BOA
 Fellowship Drive Bushland Reserve                        2              Protect           Nil
 Ferry Park Natural Amenity Reserve                       3              Protect           Nil
 Figtree Natural Amenity Reserve                          4              Monitor           Nil
 Flagship Natural Amenity Reserve                         5              Monitor           Nil
 Flooded Gum Bushland Reserve                             2              Enhance           BOA
 Forest Acres Bushland Network                            2              Enhance           BOA
                                                                                        Management
 Fourways - Noosa Banks Riparian Reserve
                                                          1              Protect           Plan
 Frogmouth Bushland Reserve                               1              Enhance           BOA
 Frogmouth Bushland Reserve East                          5              Monitor           Nil
 Galloways Bushland Reserve                               1              Protect           Nil
 Girraween Nature Refuge                                  1              Enhance           BOA
 Gleneagles Bushland Reserve                              3              Enhance           BOA
 Glenridge Bushland Reserve                               4              Monitor           Nil
 George Street Bushland reserve                           3              Enhance           BOA
 Gympie Street Esplanade                                  3              Enhance           ERP
 Harlow Bushland Reserve                                  4              Monitor           Nil
 Heathland Bushland Reserve                               5              Monitor           Nil




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                            Page 74

Section 76

                                                                                         Planning
                                                    Prioritisation     Management
 Reserve                                                                                Mechanisms
                                                         Tier        Program Category
                                                                                         Required
                                                                                           BOA/
 Heritage Park Bushland Reserve                                                         Management
                                                          1              Enhance           Plan
 Homebase Bushland Reserve                                5              Monitor           Nil
 Illoura Bushland Reserve East                            2              Enhance           BOA
 Illoura Bushland Reserve West                            2              Enhance           BOA
 Kauri Bushland Reserve                                   5              Monitor           Nil
 Kin Kin Arboretum Park                                   4              Monitor           Nil
 Kin Kin Creek Bushland Reserve                           1              Enhance           BOA
 Kin Kin Creek Environmental Reserve                      2              Enhance           ERP
 Kin Kin Entrance Bushland Reserve                        3              Enhance           BOA
 Kin Kin Old Landfill Site                                3              Enhance           BOA
 Kings St Bushland Reserve                                5              Monitor           Nil
 Kingsgate Bushland Reserve Network                       1              Enhance           BOA
 Lake Cooroibah Esplanade                                 1              Enhance           BOA
 Lake Cootharaba Bushland Reserve                         1              Protect           Nil
 Lake Doonella Bushland Reserve                           1              Enhance           BOA
 Lake Flat Rd Bushland Reserve                            2              Enhance           BOA
 Lake Weyba Drive Riparian Area                           2              Enhance           BOA
 Lakeside Bushland Reserve                                3              Protect           Nil
 Liane Bushland Reserve                                   1              Protect           Nil
 Livistona Bushland Reserve                               2              Enhance           BOA
 Lomandra Place Bushland Reserve                          5              Monitor           Nil
 Lowry Bushland Reserve                                   3              Protect           Nil
 Lyndhurst Natural Amenity Reserve                        4              Monitor           Nil
 Mackerel Street Foreshore Reserve                        5              Monitor           Nil
 Mahogany Bushland Reserve                                4              Monitor            Nil
                                                                                        Management
 Marcus Beach Foreshore Reserve
                                                          4              Monitor           Plan
 Marcus Creek Bushland Reserve                            3              Monitor           Nil
 Mary River Rd Bushland Reserve                           5              Monitor           Nil
 Mary Street Natural Amenity Reserve                      5              Monitor           Nil
 Moonare Bushland Reserve                                 4              Monitor           Nil
 Moonbeam Bushland Reserve                                3              Protect           Nil
 Murdering Creek Bushland Reserve                         2              Protect           Nil
 Noosa Northshore Esplanade                               3              Enhance           BOA
 Noosa Northrise Future Bushland                          4              Monitor           Nil
 Noosa River Esplanade                                    2              Enhance           BOA
                                                                                        Management
 Noosa Woods Foreshore Reserve
                                                          3              Enhance           Plan
 North Shore Environmental Reserve                        2              Protect           Nil
 Nylana Bushland Reserve                                  4              Monitor           Nil


Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                            Page 75

Section 77

                                                                                          Planning
                                                     Prioritisation     Management
 Reserve                                                                                 Mechanisms
                                                          Tier        Program Category
                                                                                          Required
 Oak Bushland Reserve                                      5              Monitor           Nil
 Orient Bushland Reserve North                             5              Monitor           Nil
 Orient Bushland Reserve South                             5              Monitor           Nil
 Osprey Park                                               3              Enhance           ERP
 Pacific View Bushland Reserve                             3              Protect           Nil
 Palm Grove Bushland Reserve                               4              Monitor           Nil
 Park Road Foreshore Reserve                               5              Monitor           Nil
 Pearsons Drainage Reserve                                 4              Monitor           Nil
 Penda Scrub Nature Refuge                                 1              Protect            Nil
                                                                                         Management
 Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve North
                                                           3              Enhance           Plan
                                                                                         Management
 Peregian Beach Foreshore Reserve South
                                                           4              Monitor           Plan
                                                                                         Management
 Peregian Creek Reserve
                                                           1              Enhance           Plan
 Pig Island Esplanade                                      3              Protect            Nil
                                                                                         Management
 Pinaroo Park Bushland Reserve
                                                           3              Enhance           Plan
 Pioneer Road Bushland Reserve                             2              Protect           Nil
 Quarry Track Bushland Reserve                             3              Protect           Nil
 Rainforest Court Bushland Reserve                         4              Monitor           Nil
 Read Park Bushland Reserve                                5              Monitor           Nil
 Redwood Avenue Natural Amenity Reserve                    5              Monitor           Nil
 Reef Street Bushland Reserve                              4              Monitor           Nil
 Renshaw Bushland Reserve                                  4              Monitor           Nil
 Rifle Street Natural Amenity Reserve                      4              Monitor           Nil
 Ringtail Bushland Reserve East                            3              Protect           Nil
 Sandalwood Close Natural Amenity Reserve                  4              Monitor           Nil
 Satinay Bushland Reserve                                  3              Enhance           BOA
 Senegal Rise Natural Amenity Reserve                      4              Monitor           Nil
 Sheep Island esplanade                                    2              Protect           Nil
 Shorehaven Bushland Reserve                               5              Monitor           Nil
 Silverwood Bushland Reserve                               3              Protect           Nil
 Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Cooran Section          2              Enhance           BOA
 Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Forest Acres            1              Enhance           BOA
 Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Lillywhites             1              Protect           Nil
 Six Mile Creek Bushland Reserve - Plantation Lane         2              Enhance           BOA
 Smedley Drive Bushland Reserve                            2              Protect           Nil
 Songbird Drive Bushland Reserve                           5              Monitor           Nil
 Southern Cross Bushland Reserve                           5              Monitor           Nil
 Stormbird Bushland Reserve                                4              Monitor           Nil
 Straker Drive Natural Amenity Reserve                     5              Monitor           Nil
 Sundial Bushland Reserve                                  5              Monitor           Nil

Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                             Page 76

Section 78

                                                                                         Planning
                                                    Prioritisation     Management
 Reserve                                                                                Mechanisms
                                                         Tier        Program Category
                                                                                         Required
                                                                                        Management
 Sunrise Beach Foreshore Reserve
                                                          5              Monitor           Plan
                                                                                        Management
 Sunshine Beach Foreshore Reserve
                                                          4              Monitor           Plan
 Symplocos Environmental Reserve                          1              Protect           Nil
 Symplocos Nature Refuge                                  2              Protect           Nil
 Tanderra Drive Natural Amenity Reserve                   5              Monitor           Nil
 Tecoma Close Natural Amenity Reserve                     5              Monitor           Nil
 Teewah Bushland Reserve                                  2              Protect           Nil
 Tinbeerwah Bushland Reserve                              2              Protect           Nil
 Tinbeerwah Road Bushland Reserve                         2              Protect           Nil
 Topaz Street Bushland Reserve                            5              Monitor           Nil
 Wahpunga School Park                                     1              Enhance           BOA
 Wallace Bushland Reserve                                 3              Enhance           BOA
 Waratah Close Natural Amenity Reserve                    5              Monitor           Nil
 Weyba Bridge Bushland Reserve                            3              Protect           Nil
 Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve North                       2              Enhance           BOA
 Weyba Creek Bushland Reserve South                       1              Enhance           BOA
 Weyba Nature Refuge                                      1              Protect           Nil
 Wirruna Drive Bushland Reserve                           3              Enhance           BOA
 Woodhaven Bushland Reserve                               2              Protect           Nil
 Wooroi Creek Bushland Reserve                            1              Enhance           BOA
 Yatama Bushland Reserve                                  3              Protect           Nil
 Yellow Belly Hole Bushland Resreve                       1              Enhance           BOA
 Yunaman Bushland Reserve                                 2              Enhance           BOA
 Yurol Nature Refuge                                      1              Enhance           BOA




Noosa Bushland Reserves Strategic Management Plan 2021 – 2026                            Page 77

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