Trees For Life ReLeaf June 2017

Winter 2017 Issue 142

Introducing our new Bush Bikes project New lease of life for endangered grass Phase 2 of Paddock Tree Project ready

CEO’s Message

General News

Committed team takes Trees For Life into the future

Board members get out in the bush

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n my last message I talked about the shared sense of purpose and direction that Trees For Life offers its members, the community and individuals concerned with the conservation of our environment.

That’s not something that happened purely by chance but comes from years of belief, hard work and commitment from our people.

Volunteers, supporters, staff and Board members have pulled together to make us what we are today.

Along the way we’ve had our share of challenges and disappointments but for over three decades we’ve worked together to establish ourselves at the forefront of South Australian environmental management. We get the job done.

Despite the environment slipping down the political ladder, with Commonwealth and State government funding increasingly harder to access, TFL continues to punch well above its weight and is nicely positioned to make an even greater contribution to the well-being of our community and our natural resources.

We have a great team with fresh ideas and a strong belief in the traditional values of nature, community, collaboration and resilience. Under the leadership of Natasha Davis, our CEO, we are developing a team that promises to take the organisation to new levels of achievement; we have a wonderful workforce with a level of commitment that does themselves and the organisation proud.

As I move towards the end of my time as President I can say with confidence that TFL is poised to make a quantum leap forward.

- David Mitchell

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Native plants on the go: introducing our Bush Bikes!

I Volunteer Mick Abberley and Board member Meera Verma hard at work.

Contact us ReLeaf is a production of Trees For Life.

Editor: Tania Kearney (ph: 08 8406 0500 or taniak@treesforlife.org.au) Production/Graphic Design: Molten Printing: Finsbury Green

Find us on: Want to advertise?

Advertising space is now available in ReLeaf. Phone (08) 8406 0500 or email taniak@treesforlife.org.au for advertising rates.

Trees For Life 5 May Tce, Brooklyn Park 5032 Ph: 8406 0500 Fax: 8406 0599 info@treesforlife.org.au www.treesforlife.org.au

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

Now–July 31 Ordering season open

Our Bush Bikes project aims to highlight the importance of native plants in a city environment. Follow the project - and the bikes’ locations on Trees For Life’s Facebook and Instagram sites. Get involved with #BushbikesADL today!

Cover Photo: TFLs Angela Cullen with landholder Annette Cameron of Tinline Park Mt Torrens.

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u #B

FL Board members joined with other volunteers for a Bush Action Team (BAT) day on a beautiful Saturday in May at Taworri Reserve in Fairview Park.

It was a great opportunity for newer Board members to get a hands-on experience of bush regeneration and learn the difference between weeds and natives!

Our values to remain the same Our values will remain basically the same but we continue to examine what we do and more importantly how we do it.

Changing times need new approaches and fresh ideas.

Our staff are up to the challenge and the current Board is more diverse in age, gender, skills and experience than possibly any other time in our history.

Overall the range of talent is formidable and the level of commitment heartening to see.

Recently we have added Jeanette Gellard to our number and appointed her to the vacancy of Vice President.

Elsewhere in this issue of ReLeaf you will find a profile of Jeanette and I’m sure you’ll acknowledge that she brings to the Board and TFL more generally a combination of skills and experience that will be of immense value as we move forward.

Jeanette knows the business we are in, has a good understanding of our culture and has a style that combines a sense of purpose with respect and collaboration.

She has long been a volunteer advocate and has a background in primary industry, natural resources management and strategic planning. Jeanette is a wonderful acquisition and I commend her to you as a worthy occupant of the office of Vice President.

What’s on…

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nspired by growing discussions about the importance of recognising nature in our daily lives, especially in cities, Trees For Life is running a funky new project throughout Adelaide – Bush Bikes!

We have designed several unique Bush Bikes, which are intended to raise interest and showcase our wonderful native plants. The bikes will be out and about across Adelaide with baskets stocked by our Westwood Nursery and will continue to be at locations until October.

We’re running a social media campaign to promote the project and also running a competition, encouraging people to photograph themselves with one of the bikes, create their own design or like and share any photographs related to Bush Bikes.

#BushbikesADL #BushbikesADL is the designated hashtag so make sure you look at our TFL Facebook and Instagram sites and get involved! We’d love you to help spread the message.

The Bush Bikes project is funded by the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges

Natural Resources Management Board through the NRM levy.

To find out more, including the native species used in the baskets, visit www.treesforlife.org.au.

If you’d like to host a bike contact us at info@treesforlife.org.au.

Interested in being on the TFL Board?

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f you want to contribute to the future success of Trees For Life, now is the time to consider nominating for a position on our Board.

We are always looking for additional skills and expertise to supplement our existing team. The Board plays an important role in setting the strategic direction for Trees For Life and helping with the development of beneficial relationships and fundraising.

If you believe you have something to offer and you’re interested in a position on the Board, please contact our President, David Mitchell on 0420 514 064 for a preliminary chat and explanation of what the Board’s looking for.

This year’s AGM will be held on Thursday October 19, 2017 in the meeting room at 5 May Terrace and all members are welcome.

Nominations close at 5pm on Tuesday September 19, 2017.

June 27

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Burnside

July 1

Registrations open for volunteer growers

July 1

Advanced w-shop @ Brooklyn Park

July 10

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Port Noarlunga

July 28

National Schools Tree Day

July 29

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Stirling

July 30

National Tree Day

August 4

Advanced w-shop @ Eden Hills

August 10

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Hahndorf

August 31

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Woodcroft

Sept

Biodiversity Month

Sept 1

National Wattle Day

Sept 4

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Gawler

Sept 7

National Threatened Species Day

Sept 7

National Landcare Week

Sept 17

Bushcare’s Major Day Out

Sept 19

Board nominations close

Sept 21

Intro to Plant ID Advanced w-shop

Sept 23

Intro to Plant ID Advanced w-shop

Sept 29

Intro bush regen w-shop @ Strathalbyn

(Come and Try bushcare activities on Page 7 and Advanced bushcare information on Page 12). For more information on any of the above events, phone Trees For Life on (08) 8406 0500.

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General News

General News

Rural advocate joins TFL as Vice President

Paddock Tree Project – waiting for the rain

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The Hermann family in action, filmed by MadeAdelaide’s Alex Prideaux, with help from his brother Jonas.

Four generations of TFL Willunga coordinators, from left, Julie Turner, current coordinator Saskia Gerhardy, original Kate Parkin and Joyce West, who took over from Kate in 1997.

Tree Scheme video rolls this month

Willunga TFL group turns 30!

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rees For Life is working with video content agency MadeAdelaide to develop a short video about our Tree Scheme.

The fifth-generation Hermann family kindly agreed to be featured in the video, explaining their first-hand dealings with TFL, having ordered thousands of seedlings through the scheme for many years.

The Hermanns had several problems with their 500ha cattle and sheep property in Mt Torrens, such as eroded creek lines and salinity, and turned to native vegetation as a solution.

MadeAdelaide Lead Producer Alex Prideaux spent a full day shooting footage of the family and their property recently. Alex’s business has worked with many Adelaide organisations such as Charles Sturt Council and Hey Reflecto, and was winner of the Short Circuit Film Competition 2014.

MadeAdelaide produces ‘snackable’ event documentaries, testimonials and promotional videos. Its core mission is to inspire a culture of ‘doing’ and pride in Adelaide.

More information can be found at www.madeadelaide.com.au or by phoning Alex on 0403 962 844.

Our fantastic video should be rolled out this month so stay tuned!

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rees For Life’s Willunga group celebrated its 30th anniversary recently.

The group formed in April 1987 and was originally known as the Fleurieu Group of Men of the Trees.

Initial meetings alternated between Willunga and Yankalilla regions, but soon after the group decided to focus mainly on the Willunga district and followed head office’s name change to Trees For Life.

It produced its own newsletter Fleurieu Fanfare – and for the first 10 years was coordinated by Kate Parkin, who remains a current member. Joyce West took over as coordinator in 1997, followed by Julie Turner and now, Saskia Gerhardy.

Almond Blossom Festival One of the group’s first projects was promoting native plants at the annual Almond Blossom Festival. A monthly Quarry Market stall also helped publicise the group’s aims.

Its first major project was in 1988 as part of the Bicentennial in which local species were planted on the Willunga to McLaren Vale Linear Park along the old railway line. Now many years later, the results are very obvious and very satisfying.

Many more projects followed.

Apart from growing for the TFL Tree Scheme and helping as Bush-ForLifers, Willunga members have grown nearly 25,000 trees and shrubs to be planted locally.

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

Some of the planting sites have included King’s Hill Road and Taylors Hill Road, and annual plant-outs on a private property on Range Road West since 1988.

The Willunga Wirra was developed as a demonstration planting of local native species and opened in 1996. More recently the group has undertaken joint projects with the Enviro-Kids at Willunga Primary school and the enthusiastic young members of the YACCA group based at the Willunga Environment Centre.

Hard-working members The group provided the seed for direct seeding on a bare paddock, later to become the Eco Classroom at Tatachilla Lutheran College.

Hard-working seedbank coordinators have been Ann Houghton, followed by Graham Hancox, Jan Nicholls and Julie Turner.

From the mid-1990s, the local Trees For Life Distribution Depot has been managed by members including Colin Digance, Peggy Rogers, Paul Rosser and current manager Trevor Lloyd.

Congratulations to all involved in the Willunga Trees For Life group and thank you for continuing to make such a big contribution to the environment in your region!

If anyone is interested in joining the group or wants to find out more, email saskia.gerhardy@hotmail.com

eanette Gellard joined the Trees For Life Board as Vice President in February 2017, having been a member since 2007, along with her husband Mark.

Jeanette lives on a property in Kangaroo Island, but travels regularly to Adelaide for work with her business ‘Innovate Influences’, which offers engagement, coaching and strategy services.

Jeanette’s significant contribution to the environmental and agricultural sectors in South Australia spans over 25 years and she has been recognised for her commitment to the rural sector by being awarded the Centenary Medal in 2003 and the Rural Industry Research & Development Corporation’s SA Rural Women’s Award in 2001. Jeanette has experience across government, non government and industry sectors, including serving as General Manager of the Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Management Board between 2004 and 2011.

Jeanette is delighted with her new role at Trees For Life.

“The Trees For Life mission of providing opportunities for people to play a part in the restoration and conservation of our natural environment really excites me. These are interesting times to be involved in the conservation sector and I believe the following themes are important.”

• Civil action and community voice - We are experiencing the beginnings of greater engagement of people in taking civil action and making their voice heard.

• “Love not Loss” – Language is powerful and as a communicator I’m keen to explore how Trees For Life can use messages of hope and positive contribution to motivate people to take action.

• Health and wellbeing - Trees For Life says it all. It’s important to acknowledge that the work we do has an impact on our lives, our health and wellbeing.

• 50 Shades of Nature – We are in constant change and even our most pristine wilderness environments are subject to human impacts through climate change. How can we best understand what restoration and conservation means at different times, in different locations and for different people?

P Jeanette Gellard, new Vice President of TFL, hard at work at a BAT last month.

New Board member Andrew Dolley.

New Board member Andrew Dolley also recently joined the TFL Board as an Ordinary Member.

Andrew has spent 10 years in the finance sector, delivering commercial banking solutions and relationship management across a variety of industries including manufacturing, construction, health care, retail, professional services and commercial property.

“I also have practical experience in operations management, business process review and organisational change management from previous roles at ABB Grain Limited (now Viterra) and Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited. My affection for the natural environment stems from an enthusiasm for camping and an ever-growing passion for nature and landscape photography. I have a particular interest in exploring opportunities to connect our urban lifestyles and infrastructure with the natural environment.”

hase 2 of the Paddock Tree Project is ready to hit the ground once the opening rains arrive.

We are aiming for a total of 9000 new paddock trees across approximately 48 properties in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges.

After last year’s spring rainfall, there was lots of natural germination of trees in paddocks, so we have also been guarding many of these seedlings. The spring rain also gave us an excellent result for our Phase 1 trees, with 96% of our trees surviving and some already outgrowing their tree guard.

We have had a great response to Phase 2, with landholders from Kapunda to Woodchester registering interest. To spread the paddock tree planting across the landscape, we are focusing our efforts on the high fertility watercourses on participating properties. These areas are more likely to provide nesting habitat for the target woodland bird species, and are hence the highest priority areas for their conservation.

Possible Phase 3 funding Phase 3 funding from the Adelaide & Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board looks promising, focusing on the Barossa Hills and surrounds.

The AMLR NRM Board is also establishing a monitoring program to measure the impact of these new paddock trees on declining birds. With baseline information gathered during initial bird surveys, as well as other bird survey data gathered more widely across the region, it will be possible to track bird species distribution across the landscape over time.

We are hoping that the habitat provided by the paddock trees will help to secure these species’ future.

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Tree Scheme

Tree Scheme

2017 Tree Scheme orders now open

T Hardy Westringia suits many regions

Trees For Life’s new Seedbank Manager Rohan Cleeves has worked throughout SA for more than a decade on revegetation and bush regeneration projects.

New Seedbank Manager takes on vital resource

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fter 21 years with Trees For Life, and 15 as its Seedbank Manager, Bruce Smith hung up his sieves and retired at the end of April.

Bruce will be well known amongst members for his encyclopaedic knowledge of native seed and always practical revegetation advice.

Looking after one of the State’s most important seed resources is an important and responsible task and one that Bruce exceeded at.

Over his career with us Bruce shared his knowledge with so many people through training and mentoring and many of his regular seed collection volunteers attended his farewell – ensuring he had the proper send off.

to Wellington Local Action Planning (LAP) Association and his own business Wirilda Land Restoration.

Over this time he has worked with several different seedbanks. Rohan is passionate about the flora of South Australia and doing practical, handson work to conserve and restore it.

He has seen the impact of the projects that Trees For Life support and is excited about the opportunity to work with our passionate staff and volunteers.

It was the wonderful blend of working with native plants, the role’s practical impact and working with community that attracted Rohan to the role. We look forward to his contribution in the years to come.

Important dates: Order seedlings:

Dedication second to none His contribution to Trees For Life, the State’s environment and colleagues is second to none and we wish him all the best for his retirement. We hope he won’t be a stranger and expect to receive seed packets from his favourite cycling spots.

We were lucky to host a handover for our new Seedbank Manager, Rohan Cleeves, before Bruce rode off.

Rohan has worked throughout South Australia for more than a decade on revegetation and bush regeneration projects with organisations including Greening Australia, EBS, the Goolwa

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lender Westringia (Westringia eremicola) is an erect hardy shrub which grows up to 1.5m.

Leaves are slightly prickly and feature hairs on both surfaces.

Slender Westringia mainly flowers September to December, the flowers ranging from purple, mauve, or lilac and white.

It suits sandy or rocky sites, in SA mallee-eucalypt communities, preferring a well-drained situation in full sun or half shade.

The species is also frost hardy and drought resistant.

Slender Westringia is available for various Tree Scheme zones in the State. For more information or advice phone us on (08) 8406 0500.

May 1 – July 31

Volunteer grower registration: July 1 – September 30

National Tree Day: July 28 (schools), July 30 (general)

Grower workshops: Retired Seedbank Manager Bruce Smith dedicated 21 years to Trees For Life.

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

October – November

Growing materials collection day: November 12

Pinery landholders at the recent plant giveaway, hosted by Barossa Bushgardens. Trees For Life provided hundreds of native seedlings for the event.

Discount on again for fire-affected Pinery landholders

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he Pinery bushfire burnt out approximately 85,000 hectares of land in the State’s mid-north and tragically several lives were lost.

As a result the fire continues to have a profound effect on the community and natural resources in the region.

Trees For Life is proud to continue its role in the Pinery Bushfire Revegetation Recovery Committee and again contributed seedlings to a plant giveaway event hosted by Barossa Bushgardens.

With generous ongoing support from project partners Viterra and Glencore Grains we continue to offer an additional 50% discount on the cost of native seedlings and bundles of tree guards and stakes to landholders and groups affected by the fire.

To obtain the discount, eligible recipients are asked to write PINERY FIRE on the top of the order form and then apply a 50% discount to the relevant items. Please note membership is excluded from this offer.

The funds are limited and the offer is provided on a first-come first-serve basis. Please note 2017 is the last year of guaranteed funding for this offer. To find out more and receive a copy of the 2017 Tree Scheme order form contact us on (08) 8406 0500 or info@treesforlife.org.au.

Visit the nursery at its best

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inter is a great time to visit our Westwood Nursery while we have the best of our garden plants and remaining Tree Scheme seedlings on show and available for sale.

We offer a wide range of native plants suitable for gardens across the Adelaide metropolitan area, hills and surrounds.

Not sure what to plant? We stock a number of free urban planting guides and are always happy to help with tips and advice. Members receive discount on most nursery sales. We also offer member prices on seedlings for National Tree Day events.

The Westwood Nursery is open 9am-4pm weekdays and is located at the corner of May Terrace and Sir Donald Bradman Drive, Brooklyn Park. Please note some species sell out so you need to get in quickly to avoid disappointment.

rees For Life’s Tree Scheme 2017 ordering season is now open, offering a wide range of low cost native seedlings suited to your local area.

We understand that revegetation projects take a lot of planning and effort but also know what a great investment revegetation is, providing outcomes for farms, community and local wildlife.

Thanks to our wonderful network of local volunteer growers, the scheme is one of the most economical and accessible programs for ordering seedlings in South Australia. We also provide on-going support and advice.

The flexible ordering options have proven popular and once again we will be offering 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 20 box options. The extra species information we introduced last year makes it even easier to identify the right plants for your project.

Order forms and information booklets for all 42 zones are available online at www.treesforlife.org.au and have been mailed to all landholders with a recent order. Tree Scheme orders close July 31 so make sure you get yours in before this date.

Order tree guards and stakes Tree guards and stakes can also be ordered through the Tree Scheme arriving in time for planting the following year.

We stock hardwood stakes and corflute welded guards (450mm) which effectively protect young seedlings against moderate winds and grazing by kangaroos and rabbits.

They are also durable and will last up to three seasons. The guards and stakes come in bundles of 100 for $187 and are available for pick up or late purchase from our nursery in Brooklyn Park (near the Adelaide Airport) from April to September.

To obtain a hard copy of the Tree Scheme order form or for more information or advice please contact us on (08) 8406 0500 or email info@treesforlife.org.au.

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Bush For Life

2017 BFL season launched

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round 80 Bush For Life volunteers and staff launched the 2017 bushcare season at the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre & Warriparinga Wetlands in April.

The day featured a welcome ‘walk and talk’ by BFL volunteer and Friends of Warriparinga Wetlands, Bruce Wilson, who provided insight into the wetlands’ history and importance.

A picnic lunch was organised for attendees and BFL Manager Amelia Hurren set a challenge for everyone to share their passion for nature with family and friends.

Thank you to our many dedicated bushcare volunteers who show us year by year that great things can be achieved!

Thank you also to the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre, Warriparinga Wetlands and the City of Marion for support in helping us run the annual event. We also acknowledge our other partners, in particular Adelaide & Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board.

Bush For Life

Help protect our threatened species

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he Community Action for Threatened Flora (CATF) project has been running successfully for the last 12 months.

Over this time, we have raised the profile of threatened species on the Fleurieu Peninsula, engaged volunteers to manage and monitor threatened plants and completed a range of threat abatement and monitoring activities to support the recovery of five threatened plant species at 19 separate sites.

Through the project, we have been able to involve volunteers in some new sites and activities, providing a chance to learn about techniques for monitoring plant populations.

The CATF project supports the conservation of Silver Daisy Bush (Olearia pannosa ssp pannosa), Resin Wattle (Acacia rhetinocarpa), Fat-leaf Wattle (Acacia pinguifolia), Menzell’s Wattle (Acacia menzellii), and Monarto Mintbush (Prostanthera eurybioides).

Competition from weeds is a primary threat for all of these threatened plants.

Endemic species

BFL Coordinator Peter Watton with landholder Dr John Boully. Below, attendees enjoy the picnic.

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Endangered grass gets new lease of life at Mintaro

All of these species, except Silver Daisy Bush, are endemic to South Australia and some have extremely restricted ranges.

The role of the community is vital in achieving ongoing threatened species conservation.

Community involvement and custodianship of local threatened species can result in long-lasting outcomes for the species’ survival, as volunteers will often stay involved even if funding is not available.

We have applied for another round of funding to build on the momentum created during the first year to form a volunteer community that will help deliver priority recovery actions and monitor the health of the populations.

This project is supported by the SA Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme and the NRM levy.

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

A Resin Wattle (Acacia rhetinocarpa).

Monarto Mintbush (Prostanthera eurybioides).

2017 Come & Try Bushcare dates Tues

July 4

Echunga

Thurs

July 6

Williamstown

Sat

July 8

Hallett Cove

Fri

July 14

Victor Harbor

Tues

July 18

Willunga

Thurs

July 20

Echunga

Sat

July 22

Flagstaff Hill

Wed

July 26

Gawler

Fri

July 28

Echunga

Tues

Aug 1

Eden Hills

Sat

Aug 5

Mt Osmond

Wed

Aug 9

Highbury

Fri

Aug 11

Eden Hills

Tues

Aug 15

Wasleys

Thurs

Aug 17

Ironbank

Sat

Aug 19

Pt Noarlunga

Fri

Aug 25

Humbug Scrub

Tues

Aug 29

Clarendon

Thurs

Aug 31

Aldgate

private property near Mintaro is the latest site for the translocation of the endangered Spalding Blown Grass (Lachnagrostis limitanea).

The project, undertaken by the Spalding Blown Grass Recovery Team and headed by Trees For Life’s Threatened Flora Officer Erica Rees, has involved 178 seedlings being planted at three locations on the property.

Spalding Blown Grass is listed as Endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) and the SA National Parks and Wildlife Act (1972).

Spalding Blown Grass is a shortlived, blue-green, tufted perennial grass up to 45cm tall, flowering in spring to autumn. It occurs in permanently moist drainage lines and is highly susceptible to grazing. Seeds are small (less than 2mm) and easily spread by wind. The entire seed head also readily breaks off and can be dispersed as a unit.

The first population was discovered at Riverton in 1931, however the species was then thought to have become extinct until a new population of more than 3,500 plants was discovered near Spalding in 1992.

A further population of only six plants was found near Tarlee in 1999. Subsequent surveys led to the discovery of an additional population at Logan’s Creek (2 plants), on private property west of Burra Gorge, and the rediscovery of the Riverton population. The Logan’s Creek population has since become extinct; however seed was collected prior to this and has been used in subsequent translocations. The combined total at all natural sites is approximately 4000 plants.

In a bid to save the species from extinction, the first translocation took place in 2007 near the township of Spalding. While a small population still exists at this site, numbers have gradually diminished, despite onground management, due largely to intermittent heavy flooding and limited area of suitable habitat.

Subsequent translocations have been undertaken to increase the

Volunteers help plant out Spalding Blown Grass on the Mintaro property. number of populations and improve the genetic diversity of the species; near the Wakefield River, Rhynie and Clare. The translocations have contributed to an increase in plant numbers, an increase in the extent of its occurrence and an increase in the total area.

For the Mintaro Trees For Life project, seed from all four known natural populations was collected and tubestock grown at the Mid-North Plant Diversity Nursery at Blyth. In 2014 the Blyth nursery closed and the Spalding Blown Grass tubestock was transferred to the Trees For Life Nursery and cared for there until required.

The seedlings were planted in June 2016 at three sites on the private property. The chosen areas form part of the riparian zone of the Wakefield River, which in this region is springfed and moist all year. The zone has also been fenced from stock along the full length of the river within the property. Members of Trees For Life (Clare region) took part in the planting with assistance from TFL staff and the property owners. Ongoing maintenance will be carried out by Threatened Flora Project staff and the property owners.

The Mintaro translocation is funded as part of the ‘Management of Regionally Endemic, EPBC Listed Threatened Flora in the Northern & Yorke Region’ Project.

Above: Close up views of the endangered Spalding Blown Grass.

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TFL Works

TFL Carbon

Statewide Super joins TFL Carbon

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Members of the Trees For Life Works team undertaking weed control on native roadside vegetation in the Alexandrina Council area.

TFL Works helps save important habitat

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he Trees For Life Works team is helping conserve and enhance many sites of significant vegetation in the Alexandrina Council area and in doing so, protecting many flora and fauna species.

Since 2013 the council has been contracting TFL Works to undertake weed control activities on Roadside Marker System sites, which have been identified as having significant native vegetation.

This roadside vegetation is important for many reasons.

It can provide important habitat for biodiversity, helping native wildlife move between corridors and supporting populations of threatened species.

Species such as Mount Compass Oak-bush (Allocasuarina robusta), that are listed as endangered, as well as wetland species such as Coral Fern (Gleichenia microphylla), that are rare in South Australia, are on just some of the sites in the Alexandrina Council area.

As it is likely roadside vegetation has never been cleared or grazed, it is also often the best example of what

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native species exist in the differing regions. It’s an important source of seed, provides a great example for landholders who want to revegetate adjacent properties with suitable native species and can also act as a natural shelterbelt.

In undertaking weed control, native species have been able to thrive, more regeneration has been visible and fuel loads reduced. TFL Works has treated weeds such as Olive, Tagasaste, Pittosporum, Broom, Boneseed, Dogrose, Pine, Ivy, Prickly pear, Watsonia, Sparaxis, Freesia and African Love Grass that has been on the march around roadside sites and popping up in random areas.

Due to the progress made by the team, some sites in the Alexandrina Council area now just need followup maintenance.

Other sites however, still require a longer term plan and need to be managed effectively to remove weeds of national significance (WoNs) and establish weed fronts.

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

The endangered Mount Compass Oakbush (Allocasuarina robusta), one of the species the TFL Works team is helping to protect.

rees For Life is delighted to welcome Statewide Super as a new partner in our TFL Carbon program. As a proud, values-orientated South Australian organisation, Statewide Super wanted to work with a fellow South Australian organisation to offset their carbon emissions – and Trees For Life was the natural fit.

“Our decision to partner with Trees For Life was influenced by a number of factors. The results of a recent ‘sustainability ideas survey’ distributed to staff elicited a clear preference for collaborating with an organisation offering volunteer opportunities,” explains Marketing, Communications and Engagement Manager Sophie Horwood.

“In addition, we undertook a thorough review of carbon offsetting providers both nationally and internationally. Trees For Life was quickly identified as our desired partner due to your range of offsetting options and local volunteering opportunities. As a super fund with a strong affiliation to our State, we believe in supporting other SA-based organisations where we can. Trees For Life is a successful SA organisation dedicated to a sustainable future for all South Australians, and we are delighted to work with you.”

This new partnership with TFL complements Statewide Super’s overall commitment to mitigating their environmental impact, which is supported by members and staff.

“We plan to communicate our partnership with Trees For Life to our 140,000 members and 18,000 staff via emails, website updates, our lifestyle blog ‘Your Super Life’, and our engaged social media community.

We will also be encouraging our staff to get involved with volunteering opportunities so that they can understand the benefits of this partnership first-hand.”

TFL Carbon planting sites, which provide multiple benefits in addition to carbon sequestration - such as vital habitat for native fauna.

TFL Carbon provides offsets for people and business

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rees For Life’s Carbon offset program offers businesses and individuals the opportunity to offset greenhouse emissions through South Australian biodiverse plantings.

Our carbon plantings are undertaken by direct seeding, have legal protection for minimum of 30 years and are independently audited.

Environmental plantings provide multiple benefits in addition to their natural, efficient and long-term sequestration of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

For landholders, biodiverse native plantings can increase productivity through improving soil health and water quality, while decreasing salinity and soil erosion.

Plantings also provide vital habitat for native flora and fauna.

Trees are $4 each and we estimate five trees will sequester 1 tonne of carbon over the life of the plantings.

TFL also offers Voluntary Carbon Units (VCU) which meet the National Carbon Offset Standard and support international wind projects. Our premium product is ‘Carbon Plus’, which comprises one VCU and the planting of one local tree.

To learn more about the TFL Carbon program email dennish@treesforlife.org.au or 0429 142 499

The endangered Coral Fern (Gleichenia microphylla).

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For Members

Volunteer profile - Pat Glazier

For Members

Generous Sue retires from TFL

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joined TFL in 1991, originally growing trees for farmers down the southeast. It was a time when there was a lot of effort going into revegetation and I found it very rewarding to think I was helping in a small way.

I began attending Bush Action days which brought me into contact with like-minded people and expanded my knowledge of local flora. Seed collecting and grass recognition workshops followed.

I have worked on many sites, mainly in the southern area, including Upper Sturt roadside, Scott Creek (tackling monadenia) and Happy Valley Reservoir where I spent many happy hours drilling and filling olive trees.

After a move to Port Elliot I took over care of the Ferryman’s Reserve Bush For Life site where I have worked for the past 5 years. During this time I have seen a great difference in the site with the regeneration of natives, once the weeds were removed. I was delighted to be presented with a ‘Thank You Tree Award’ last year for my work on the site.

Having now relocated back to the city I am looking forward to getting involved with another BFL site and would encourage anyone else who has an interest in the environment to take on a site as the rewards far outweigh any back aches!

To me there is nothing better than being out in the environment, listening to the birds and removing weeds!

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ormer Bush For Life Coordinator Sue Bradstreet retired in February after 11.5 years of professional service to Trees For Life, plus at least another 10 years as a volunteer.

Needless to say, Sue will be missed enormously after 20+years!

The word used often by staff and volunteers to describe Sue is ‘generous’. Sue has been so generous with her time and knowledge and has mentored many staff and volunteers over the years who have benefited enormously from her bushcare wisdom.

She is often seen as a quiet achiever, but her background as a primary school teacher has occasionally become apparent, keeping a sometimes unruly team in line!

Sue will continue to be involved in Bush For Life, caring for her own site at Macclesfield and volunteering at other sites on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

On behalf of the biodiversity of the Adelaide Hills, we thank Sue for her passion and dedication and we look forward to supporting her on her volunteering journey.

Sue Bradstreet out in the field.

Drill donation is much appreciated

A

big thank you to bushcare volunteer Val Percy who recently donated a drill press to the Direct Seeding Program.

It’s a very generous donation and will be well used!

Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

Help plant trees on the Fleurieu

Trees For Life workshops

I

f you are interested in becoming a volunteer on one of our Bush For Life sites or would like to learn more about managing your own bushland then come along to an Introductory Bush Regeneration Workshop. Phone (08) 8406 0500 to register for workshops.

T

he Fleurieu Tree Planting Group is looking for volunteers to help this winter.

If you love working in the great outdoors and want to do something extremely positive for the South Australian environment, help out at one of the planting events.

The group provides a vital service for landholders who may otherwise not be able to revegetate their property.

There will be approximately 10 plantings this winter, generally every Sunday until September, in any weather. The plantings run from 10am to 12-1pm, followed by a delicious luncheon provided by the landholder. It is a great opportunity to see different locations you wouldn’t normally have access to and meet like-minded people.

Much satisfaction can be gained from being a part of something so positive and many bonds of friendship are formed.

Need help with planting?

The Fleurieu Trees For Life’s Volunteer Tree Planting Team work on sites on the Fleurieu Peninsula, from the South Eastern Freeway to Cape Jervois and Callington to Yankalilla. If your planting site is in this area then we may be able to help you.

Contact Bunti Pellen, Trees For Life’s Volunteer Planting coordinator to organise a time. The team plants from May to September. It is essential to book early as in previous years it has been extremely popular and places are limited.

If you’d like more information contact Volunteer Planting Coordinator Bunti Pellen on 042 901 6335 or email bunti@adam.com.au (Please don’t phone after 7pm Sunday-Thursday).

2017 Introductory bush regeneration workshops (B1)

Paris trip winners Anne and Rob, with TFL CEO Natasha Davis.

Trees For Life lottery – the results are in

S

incere thanks to all who bought tickets in the Trees For Life lottery.

First prize proved a popular attraction to those new to the organisation. Excited to learn news of the win, Anne and Rob from Glenelg East are looking forward to their trip to Paris later this year. Bon voyage!

This year’s lottery raised over $67,300 for Trees For Life.

Congratulations to all who won a prize in the draw. We are grateful to those who bought tickets, supplied prizes and sold lottery books. We could not have done this without you.

Thank you.

Win-win with 2017 Entertainment Book

W

e are raising as much as we can to help South Australia’s environment.

You can help us by buying either an Entertainment Book or a Digital Membership ($70 each). Whichever you choose, you’ll receive hundreds of valuable offers for everything you love to do, and help our fundraising at the same time! Call us on (08) 8406 0500 or pop into the office today.

“I need more days in my week so I can fit more cafes and restaurants in! I have a book tagged with notes and highlights so I can pre book weekly! It’s awesome!”

– Jenny.

Wednesday

June 7

Modbury

Tuesday

June 27

Burnside

Monday

July 10

Port Noarlunga

Saturday

July 29

Stirling

Thursday

August 10

Hahndorf

Thursday

August 31

Woodcroft

Monday

September 4

Gawler

Friday

September 29

Strathalbyn

(Bush Action Team activities on Page 7). For more information on any of the above events, phone Trees For Life on (08) 8406 0500.

Advanced bushcare workshops Broadleaf & Bulb Weed Control in Grassy Ecosystems:

Saturday

July 1

Brooklyn Park

Brushcutter Use & Maintenance:

Friday

August 4

Eden Hills

Intro to Plant ID:

Thursday

September 21

By Ann Prescott

Intro to Plant ID:

Saturday

September 23

By Ann Prescott

Intro to Grass ID:

Thursday

October 26

By Ann Prescott

If you are interested in this workshop, but can’t attend on this date, please contact us to discuss alternative options.

Seed collection workshops (SC1) Tuesday

August 1

Black Hill CP

Tuesday

October 3

Black Hill CP

The workshop will be held in the volunteer centre from 9am until 3.30pm.

For more information phone Seedbank Manager Rohan Cleeves on (08) 8406 0500.

Albert Morris field trip planned

P

eople from throughout Australia will be converging on Broken Hill August 22-24 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of one of the world’s earliest restoration projects: the Broken Hill Regeneration Reserves.

This will mark the inauguration of the Albert Morris Ecological Restoration Award.

To find out more about the event, go to www.aabr.org.au/event/albert-morrisecological-restoration-field-trip-andrestoration-awards/ The host organisations need an estimate of how many might be interested in travelling on a bus from Adelaide so if you think you may be coming please complete the online survey www.surveymonkey.com/r/3Z3F6W5.

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Sponsors & Supporters

Service Directory

Seedling soiree for major donors, bequestors

Trees For Life Trees For Life, 5 May Tce, Brooklyn Park 5032 Ph: (08) 8406 0500 Fax: (08) 8406 0599 info@treesforlife.org.au www.treesforlife.org.au

T

rees For Life staff were pleased to welcome 25 major donors and bequestors to the Westwood Nursery in late March.

Though a little wet, everyone managed to keep warm and sheltered and appreciated the chance to mingle with other supporters who have a similar vision for the future.

Guests were treated to delicious food from sponsors Taylor & Holmes and beautiful wine from Long Yarn, thanks to our generous Board Member Jess Hardy.

A number of nursery tours were undertaken, with Brett Oakes answering many questions and our visitors gaining an even greater understanding of the work of Trees For Life.

We are grateful to all donors and supporters of our organisation and look forward to the opportunity to gradually meet you all as time goes on!

Trees For Life Board President: David Mitchell Vice President: Jeanette Gellard Treasurer: Janine Mildren Board Members: Sarah Van Maarseveen, Jim Humphrys, Tracey Shepard, Jess Hardy, Morgan Muirhead, Meera Verma and Andrew Dolley

Trees For Life Contacts Chief Executive Officer: Natasha Davis Reveg Services Manager: Vicki-Jo Russell Bush For Life Manager: Amelia Hurren Fundraising + Marketing: Angela Gordon Direct Seeding Manager: David Hein TFL Works Manager: Matthew Endacott Office Manager: Julie Holloway TFL Carbon Manager: Dennis Hayles Seedbank Manager: Rohan Cleeves TFL Nursery: Cameron Pevie, Brett Oakes

Trees For Life Rural Gawler: Sylvia Nieuwenhuizen 8406 8419 Noarlunga: Graham Greaves 8386 1018 Willunga: Saskia Gerhardy 0412 135 698; Paul Rosser 8557 7483 Mt Gambier: Briony Schleuniger 8724 9759 Mt Pleasant: Ruth Charlesworth 8524 6661 Clare: Dean Schubert 8843 4317 Strathalbyn: Jo & Sue Scheiffers 7501 6006

Trees For Life Works professional services For government, business and private landholders: • Bushland management • Fuel reduction control • Roadside vegetation management • Woody weed control • Bulk seed collection • Revegetation and bushland buffering • Tubestock planting • Tubestock grown to order • Direct seeding using locally collected seed • Site visits and land management advice Call TFL on (08) 8406 0500 to arrange a quote.

Top right: Nursery Manager Brett Oakes discusses the site operations with donors and supporters. Right: TFL representatives, Revegetation Services Manager Vicki-Jo Russell, Vice President Jeanette Gellard and CEO Natasha Davis.

People’s help needed to sell tickets

T

rees For Life is taking part in this year’s People’s Choice Community Lottery.

Every book of lottery tickets sold raises $20 for Trees For Life.

First prize is a Toyota Rav 4, Second is a $35,000 Harvey Norman voucher and third is a Toyota Corolla.

To buy tickets on-line, go to peopleschoicecu.com.au and look for Trees For Life so we receive your support. If you would like to receive a book of tickets to sell, please contact our office on (08) 8406 0500. Thank you for helping raise vitals funds for Trees For Life.

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Trees For Life Winter 2017 Number 142

Kristian T Mumford - Twenty Million Years of Wonder (2016) oil on linen 128x63cm.

Thanks to Kristian Mumford

K

ristian Mumford is a talented, award winning Australian Impressionist artist with a passion for nature and water.

Kristian generously donated a framed original landscape painting “Twenty Million Years of Wonder”

(2016) oil on linen 128 x 63cm as a prize in this year’s Trees For Life lottery.

Should you wish to add one of Kristian’s works to your collection, please call him on 0415 156 614 for details.

You’re invited to tour Sacred Grove

E

dmund Gooden established Sacred Grove in Belvidere, South Australia some years ago.

Sacred Grove provides a sustainable source of Scented Emu Bush, Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) and Native Pine (Callitris gracilis).

While in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, Edmund learnt about the natural healing properties of the Scented Emu Bush (Eremophila alternifolia) from local indigenous communities and wanted to share this knowledge with others. The Scented Emu Bush has natural anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant qualities and can be used internally and externally for a wide range of medical conditions.

Once planted, the Scented Emu Bush took three years to develop for harvesting. Edmund spent time developing production techniques before creating a range of products healing teas, oils and rubs known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

In July 2013, the Trees For Life Direct Seeding team planted 19 rows of native species including acacias, eucalypts, sheoaks and native apricots. These species are the dominant host for native sandalwood.

Trees For Life is proud to stock Sacred Grove products in our shop.

These have organic certification from The National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia (NASAA).

Edmund invites Trees For Life supporters to take a tour of his property on Saturday July 22. Please register your interest with Trees For Life on (08) 8406 0500.

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Plant natives to attract wildlife

H

i kids. You might have heard that our birds, animals and insects need all the help they can get in order to survive. Just like us, they need shelter and food. Did you know there is one thing we can all do to help them? Plant more natives in our gardens!

Native plants come in all different shapes, colours and densities and look beautiful in our gardens! Over the years they have adapted to our soil and climate conditions. This means they are low maintenance, requiring no fertilizers or pesticides and minimal watering. Because water supplies in South Australia are scarce it is a good idea to use drought tolerant species.

Not only are native plants easy to grow and better for our environment, they also provide habitat for local wildlife including birds, butterflies, bees and more! Here are some examples of how you can turn your backyard into a friendly environment: • Provide native grasses as they contain seeds for birds • Plant Acacias and Hakeas to protect smaller animals from predators • Provide a water source such as a bird bath and refill when empty • Grow Grevilleas, Banksias and Eucalypts so there are lots of nectar sources • Avoid using chemicals in your garden so they don’t poison the animals • Keep your cats indoors as much as possible so they don’t attack the wildlife • Don’t feed the wildlife the same food you eat as it can make them sick To find out which plant species are native to your suburb and will attract the right wildlife to your backyard you can visit our nursery or Trees For Life website.

Grow your own butterfly kit!

D

on’t you think butterflies are beautiful?!

They are also really important for the ecosystem as they play an important role as a pollinator.

You can encourage more native butterflies to come to your garden by offering them the right kinds of plants.

‘Butterfly - Start From Seed Kits’ are available at our Trees For Life nursery to help you start your very own butterfly habitat.

A copy of the ‘Butterfly - Start From Seed Kit’ order form is available at www.treesforlife.org.au. Phone (08) 8406 0500 or email info@treesforlife.org.au for more information.

Colour me in to win

F

or your chance to win one of our new books ‘Nature Crafts for Aussie Kids’, colour in this gorgeous butterfly - or draw your own - and send it to us at 5 May Terrace, Brooklyn Park, 5032.

‘Nature Crafts for Aussie Kids’ is by talented Adelaide author Kate Hubmayer.

The book features 15 craft ideas to encourage children of all ages to use their imagination and connect with nature. For more information email katehubmayer@gmail.com or to order your own copy visit www.yourbooksonline.com.au

Kids Branch by Miranda Hurren

Trees For Life. 5 May Tce, Brooklyn Park, SA, 5032. (08) 8406 0500 www.treesforlife.org.au