Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Management Plan 2018-2028 (Cth)

COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

APPROVAL OF THE NORFOLK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK AND
NORFOLK ISLAND BOTANIC GARDEN MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018-2028

I, MELISSA PRICE, Assistant Minister for the Environment, acting pursuant to section 370 of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, hereby approve the Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Management Plan 2018-2028.

Dated this 20 day of April, 2018

Melissa Price

Assistant Minister for the Environment

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ISBN: 978-0-9876152-6-8 (Print)
ISBN: 978-0-9876152-7-5 (Online)

How to cite this document

Director of National Parks (2018) Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Management Plan 2018-2028. Director of National Parks, Canberra.

This management plan has been prepared by The Director of National Parks for public comment. This management plan sets out how it is proposed the park and botanic garden will be managed for the next 10 years.

With the exception of logos and cover images or where otherwise noted, this plan is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
To view a copy of this license, visit and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights can be addressed to:
Director of National Parks
GPO Box 787
Canberra ACT 2601
Director of National Parks Australian business number: 13051 694 963
© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia, 2018
E-location: Director of National Parks gratefully acknowledges the assistance and advice of members of the Norfolk Island National Park Advisory Committee, the Norfolk Island Regional Council and the many individuals and organisations who contributed to the management plan.
Credits
Photo credits:
Cover: Green parrot – Abi Smith
Nursery – Mark Hallam
Phillip Island, Long Valley – Norfolk Island National Park Collection
Visitors at the Botanic Garden – Norfolk Island Tourism
Morepork owl – Lachlan L Hall
Pg. 7:     Green parrot – Abi Smith
Pg. 13: White tern with chick – Lachlan L Hall
Pg. 17: Abutilon julianae – Norfolk Island National Park Collection
Pg. 41: Visitors at Captain Cook Lookout - Norfolk Island Tourism
Pg. 49: Rangers at Phillip Island - Norfolk Island National Park Collection
Other images – Michael Nelson
Maps – Environmental Resources Information Network
Foreword
Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden protect over 650 hectares of the remote Territory of Norfolk Island. Set in the south-west Pacific Ocean, the
natural habitats and microclimates of the Territory provide refuge between tropical and temperate oceanic island environments and are home to unique assemblages of flora
and fauna.
The park and botanic garden provide habitat and breeding areas for endemic species, migratory birds and large colonies of breeding seabirds. It provides protection to
remnant areas of subtropical rainforest that once covered much of the Island.
Management of the park and botanic garden has a strong focus on the protection of existing native flora and fauna and habitat restoration through the control of invasive species, planting of native vegetation and implementation of erosion control measures.
The park and botanic garden provide educational, scientific, cultural and recreational opportunities for Norfolk Island residents and visitors and a valuable resource for the Norfolk Island tourism industry.
This management plan for Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic
Garden has been prepared under provisions of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and meets all the statutory requirements for a management plan under that Act.
This management plan will provide a firm foundation for the management of the Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden for the next ten years.
Judy West
Acting Director of National Parks
Acknowledgments
The Director of National Parks gratefully acknowledges the assistance and advice of members of the Norfolk Island National Park Advisory Committee and the individuals and organisations who contributed to this management plan.
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Vision
Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden are recognised and appreciated for their natural, cultural and scientific values, as a refuge for native species and as an inspirational and rewarding experience for both visitors and the local community.
Objectives
The objectives for management of the park and botanic garden are:
To identify, conserve and protect the natural and cultural values of the park and botanic garden
To offer world class natural and cultural experiences, that improve understanding of the values of the reserves and enhance the Norfolk Island regional economy
To base management and decision-making on a foundation of best available information, sound policies and practices, contemporary management approaches.
Values of the park and botanic garden, as described in the statement of significance on
page 4 of this plan, provide the basis and rationale for management of the reserves and underpin this plan’s objectives, policies and actions.
The management prescriptions in this plan contribute to achieving the objectives for the management of the park and botanic garden. These objectives support the purpose for which the reserves were declared and conservation of their natural and cultural values, ensuring they are managed consistently with their assigned International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) management categories.
Contents
Forewordi
Acknowledgmentsi
Visioniii
Objectivesiii
A description of Norfolk Island National Park and
Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
Territory of Norfolk Island 3
Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden3
Statement of Significance4
The values of the park and botanic garden 4
Management Plan for Norfolk Island National Park and
Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
Introductory provisions
1.1     Short title8
1.2     Commencement and termination8
1.3     IUCN category and zoning 8
Resilient places and ecosystems
Natural and cultural heritage management
2.1     Native plants and animals12
2.2     Cultural heritage management15
2.3     Botanic Garden and herbarium collection16
2.4     Research and monitoring17
2.5     Community use of natural resources20
2.6     Managing adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens21
2.7     Climate Change26
2.8     Landscapes, soils and water27
2.9     Landscape rehabilitation 29
2.10    Forestry Area30
Tourism and use of the park and botanic garden
Visitor and access management
3.1     Visitor activities36
3.2     Visitor information, education and interpretation38
3.3     Commercial tourism and other commercial activities39
Effective business systems
Effective business systems
4.1     Assessment of proposals44
4.2     Roads and tracks48
4.3     Capital works and infrastructure 54
4.4     Resource use in park operations55
4.5     Visitor safety and incident management56
4.6     Compliance and enforcement59
4.7     Neighbours, stakeholders and partnerships60
4.8     Activities not otherwise specified in this plan 62
4.9     Management plan implementation and evaluation63
Appendices
A.Interpretation (including acronyms)65
B.Legislative context67
Establishment of the National Park and Botanic Garden67
Director of National Parks67
EPBC Act68
Planning process70
International agreements72
C.EPBC Act listed species occurring in Norfolk Island National Park74
and/or Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
D.Management principles in Schedule 8 to the EPBC Regulations relevant to 78
Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
Maps
Location of Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden2
IUCN Categorisation of zones within the park and botanic garden10
Forestry Area33
Access to Norfolk Island National Park (Mount Pitt Section)50
Access to Norfolk Island Botanic Garden52
Access to Norfolk Island National Park (Phillip Island Section)53
Tables
Decision-making process and impact assessment procedures46
Environmental impact assessment matters and considerations47
Bibliography81
Index84
Map 1:   Location of Norfolk Island National Park and
Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
Territory of Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island is located in the South Pacific Ocean at latitude 29°02’ S and longitude
167° 57’ E. Norfolk Island covers an area of 3,455 hectares and is located approximately 1,700 kilometres from Sydney, Australia, and 1,100 kilometres from Auckland, New Zealand (Map 1).
The Territory of Norfolk Island includes Nepean and Phillip Islands—small, uninhabited islands that lie to the south of Norfolk Island—as well as several rocky islets along the island coastline. Norfolk Island covers an area of 3,455 hectares with a permanent population of approximately 1,800.
Archaeological evidence suggests Norfolk Island was inhabited by Polynesians between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries – it is unknown whether the Polynesian population moved on, or died out. Rediscovered by Captain Cook in 1774 and found to be uninhabited, Norfolk was settled by the British in 1788, just five weeks after the First Fleet’s arrival in Australia. The island operated as a colonial settlement between 1788
and 1814, utilising convict labour to harvest and mill Norfolk Island pines and harvest
flax for the making of canvas. In 1825 a penal settlement was established, operating until 1855, when the last remaining convicts were removed.
In June 1856 the Island was settled by the Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of the mutineers of the HMS Bounty and their families. Pitcairn had become too small for their growing population and was no longer a suitable home. The Pitcairners established a permanent settlement on Norfolk Island and their descendants make up around one
third of the Island’s current population.
Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden
Norfolk Island National Park covers 650 hectares in two sections. The Mount Pitt Section on Norfolk Island itself covers 460 hectares. The other section comprises all 190 hectares of neighbouring Phillip Island. The Norfolk Island Botanic Garden covers 5.5 hectares and is located near the Mount Pitt Section of the park.
The Mount Pitt Section of the park and the botanic garden were first established by the (Norfolk Island) Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Act 1984 when it came into force on 12 February 1985. These areas were subsequently declared a national park and botanic garden under the (Commonwealth) National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975 by proclamation under that Act on 31 January 1986 following a request of the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly. The Phillip Island Section of the park was proclaimed under the Commonwealth Act on 24 January 1996.
In July 2000 the (Commonwealth) Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) came into force and replaced a number of Acts relevant to the management of the park and botanic garden. Since 16 July 2000, the park and the
botanic garden have been managed under the EPBC Act.
Statement of Significance
Set in the south-west Pacific, Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden provide a link between tropical and temperate oceanic island environments. Norfolk’s remote location, coupled with Norfolk Island’s colonisation by plants and animals dispersed over vast distances of ocean, means the park and botanic garden have unique vegetation assemblages with many endemic species. The park contains historic sites and artefacts that illustrate the social development of the island and its people since early settlement. The park contains sites that support ongoing traditional and cultural practices undertaken by the local community.
The values of the park and botanic garden
Identification and recognition of the park and botanic garden’s values ensures a shared understanding about what is most important about the reserves, and the statement of significance helps to focus management and planning. If the values are allowed to decline the park and botanic garden’s purpose and significance as protected areas would be jeopardised.
Natural values
The park and botanic garden protect most of the remaining areas of subtropical rainforest that originally covered Norfolk Island prior to settlement. This includes areas of remnant lower altitude rainforest that are characteristically dominated by vines.
The park and botanic garden provide principal, sole or potential habitat for listed threatened species, including four threatened species of forest-dwelling birds and 28 threatened plants. The park also provides secure nesting habitat for at least 15 species of seabirds.
The park and the living collection in the botanic garden provide rich sources of horticultural, botanical and biological information about the native species of Norfolk Island.
Phillip Island, although long devoid of its original vegetation, is an important seabird nesting site and a refuge for several threatened species lost from Norfolk Island itself. The gradual recovery of vegetation on Phillip Island, following the eradication of
feral rabbits in 1986, is a unique example of nature’s capacity to restore balance to ecosystems under severe stress.
Heritage values
The park and botanic garden protect significant heritage sites associated with
the defence of Norfolk Island during World War II, including the remains of a gun emplacement and radar facility near the top of Mount Bates. Scattered throughout the park are less obvious relics of the military and colonial past, including additional gun emplacements, colonial brick clamps and other sites of heritage significance.
Philip Island is a listed place on the Commonwealth Heritage List recognising that it is a predator-free habitat providing nesting habitat for seabirds, habitat for flora and fauna once considered to be extinct on nearby Norfolk Island, and for its dramatic aesthetic landscape characteristics.
Social and economic values
In addition to being a significant place for the conservation of wildlife and other natural resources, Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden are places for public education, quiet enjoyment and recreation.
A significant proportion of Norfolk Island income is based on tourism. The majority
of visitors to the island spend time within the park and botanic garden. Visitors seek opportunities to walk through the forests of the park, to explore the botanic garden, to take in views of the landscape and seascapes from various vantage points in the park and botanic garden, and to surround themselves with nature.

Introductory provisions
1.1Short title
This management plan may be cited as the Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk
Island Botanic Garden Management Plan 2018-2028.
1.2Commencement and termination
This management plan will come into operation following approval by the Minister under s.370 of the EPBC Act, on a date specified by the Minister or the day after it is registered under the Legislation Act 2003, whichever is later, and will cease to have effect ten years after commencement, unless revoked sooner by a new plan.
1.3IUCN category and zoning
Our aim
The park and botanic garden are managed in accordance with an IUCN protected area category and relevant management principles to protect their values while providing for appropriate use
Background
Under s.367(1) of the EPBC Act, a management plan for a Commonwealth reserve
must assign the reserve to an IUCN protected area category. A management plan can
also divide a Commonwealth reserve into zones and must assign each zone to an IUCN category (which may differ from the overall category assigned to the reserve). The EPBC Regulations (Schedule 8) prescribe the management principles for each IUCN category. The principles relevant to this plan are set out in Appendix D.
The provisions of a management plan must not be inconsistent with the management principles for the IUCN category to which the reserve or zone of the reserve is assigned (s.367(3)).
The categories to which the park and botanic garden are assigned are guided by the purposes for which they were declared.
The purposes for which Norfolk Island National Park was declared as a Commonwealth reserve are:
(a)the preservation of the area in its natural condition; and
(b)the encouragement and regulation of the appropriate use, appreciation and enjoyment of the area by the public.
The purposes for which the park was declared are consistent with the characteristics for IUCN protected area category II, national park. The purpose for which the botanic garden was declared is consistent with the characteristics for IUCN protected area category IV, habitat/species management area.
The park is divided by this plan into two zones—the Forestry Area to be managed as IUCN category VI, managed resource protected area, reflecting the purposes for which the area is used; and the balance of the Mount Pitt Section of the park and Phillip Island to be managed as IUCN category II, national park. See Map 2.
What we are going to do
Policies
1.3.1The park is assigned to IUCN category II, national park.
1.3.2The park is divided into two zones:
(a)the Forestry Area (Map 3), located within the Mount Pitt Section of the park, is assigned to IUCN category VI, managed resource protected area
(b)the balance of the Mount Pitt Section of the park and Phillip Island is assigned to IUCN category II, national park.
1.3.3The botanic garden is assigned to IUCN protected area category IV, habitat/ species management area.
Actions
1.3.4Manage the park and botanic garden in accordance with the Australian IUCN reserve management principles applicable to the relevant IUCN Categories assigned above, to protect their inherent natural and cultural values while providing for appropriate use (See Appendix D).
Map 2:   IUCN Categorisation of zones within the park and botanic garden

Natural and cultural heritage management
The Mount Pitt Section of the park consists of a small remnant (less than 10 per cent) of the subtropical rainforest which originally covered Norfolk Island.
The botanic garden contains a small remnant of the lowland subtropical hardwood forest dominated by vines, which once covered much of the island foothills. The small size of the remnants render the natural heritage values of the park and botanic garden very sensitive to further disturbance. Introduced weeds, predators, competitors and pathogens are major threats to park and botanic garden values.
The botanic garden and park headquarters also support the living collection, herbarium collection and the visitor-focused Discovery Centre.
As a result of historic vegetation destruction by introduced animals there has been severe erosion on Phillip Island. Large areas remain bare, however significant areas of surviving native vegetation are spreading through some valleys. The introduced weed African olive (Olea europaea) remains a significant weed on Phillip Island requiring ongoing control. African Olive currently assists in soil stabilisation on areas of the island, therefore its control needs to be strategic.
The park and botanic garden are the refuge of many endemic species including substantial proportions of many of the 15 flora species listed under the EPBC Act as critically endangered.

The Forestry Area of the park contains stands of non-native trees as a result of efforts to develop timber production plantations as a local source of construction material on the island. These were established and managed many years before the proclamation of the park.

The significance of the park and botanic garden include both historic and cultural heritage values. The area which is now the Mount Pitt Section of the national park
has been the site of a number of significant events in the human history of the island, including its discovery and settlement by Europeans and its defence during World War II. The park contains a number of heritage artefacts relating to World War II.

2.1Native plants and animals

Our aim

Maintain or improve the distribution and abundance of species native to Norfolk Island, ensuring healthy ecosystems and the processes upon which they depend.

Background

Given the small size of the park and botanic garden and the distribution of many species beyond the park and botanic garden boundaries, achieving our aim depends on both on- and off-park actions. Therefore cooperation with the Norfolk Island Regional Council and the local community is vital.

Norfolk Island is home to a range of threatened species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act set out in Appendix C. The Norfolk Island Region Threatened Species Recovery Plan identifies many of the priorities for species-directed management actions on and off the park.

In order to achieve the objectives of this management plan, the Director may need to impact upon native species, including species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act. Under ss.354 and 354A of the EPBC Act a person may not kill, injure, take, trade, keep or move a member of a native species except in accordance with a management plan. Unless specifically authorised by a management plan, the EPBC Regulations also prohibit taking animals and plants into the park or botanic garden, and cultivating plants in the park or botanic garden.

The protection of our native flora and fauna depends fundamentally on reducing or managing adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens including native species (see Section 2.6), rehabilitating natural ecosystems (see Section 2.9) and rigorous quarantine measures.

Actions taken in accordance with this plan in relation to members of species listed under Part 13 of the Act are exempt from prohibitions that would otherwise apply under
Part 13.

Flora

182 plant species are native to Norfolk Island. The park and the botanic garden are the refuge for 43 endemic species, including substantial proportions of the populations of many of the 15 plant species considered to be critically endangered under the EPBC Act.

Fauna

Of the 15 species and subspecies of birds endemic to Norfolk Island, only seven definitely remain.

Nest maintenance, and predator and competitor control have been successful in increasing Norfolk Island green parrot (Cyanoramphus cookii) and Norfolk Island morepork (Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata) numbers in the wild.

The two native mammals recorded from Norfolk Island—Gould’s wattled bat (Chalinolobus gouldii) and the eastern free-tail bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis)—are thought to be locally extinct.

The two native reptile species found in the Norfolk Group—the Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) gecko (Christinus guentheri) and the Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) skink (Oligosoma lichenigera)—are considered extinct on Norfolk Island but are known to occur on Phillip Island.

The park and botanic garden have a rich diversity of terrestrial molluscs but it is thought that the introduction of rats and feral fowl (Gallus gallus) may have had a severe
impact on this group of species. This includes five species of mollusc listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act.

Issues

A high proportion of the park and botanic garden species are listed threatened species under the EPBC Act.

The park and botanic garden provide habitat for listed threatened, migratory and marine species.

There is insufficient knowledge for management of some species.

Monitoring trends of many species is challenging, particularly on Phillip Island where access is difficult.

The viability of some native species will depend upon actions taken inside and outside the park and botanic garden.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.1.1Priority will be given to activities that:

(a)improve the conservation status of listed threatened species.

(b)have systemic benefits for more than one species.

2.1.2The Director may take actions or authorise (whether by permit, contract, lease, letter or licence) actions by other persons concerning species, including species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act, that are otherwise prohibited by the EPBC Act or Regulations where they are necessary to implement this plan, or where they are otherwise necessary for preserving or protecting the park and botanic garden, protecting or conserving biodiversity, or protecting persons or property in the park and botanic garden.

2.1.3Displays involving living animals will observe appropriate Australian standards for exhibited animals.

2.1.4Native plant material may be taken in and from the park and botanic garden in accordance with a permit or licence issued under the EPBC Regulations.

Actions

2.1.5Contribute to island-wide natural resource planning, multi-species recovery planning and associated implementation processes.

2.1.6Implement multi-species recovery plans, and relevant threat abatement plans for listed threatened species as they apply to the park and botanic garden.

2.1.7So far as practicable take other actions that may improve or maintain the conservation status of species native to Norfolk Island.

2.1.8The Director may implement interventionist programs for EPBC Act listed species, such as captive breeding and species relocations, that have a long-term aim of improving their conservation status.

2.1.9Implement a species relocation program for the green parrot.

2.1.10Assess the feasibility of reintroducing species to Norfolk Island that have become extinct on the island, where suitable populations occur elsewhere.

See also Section 2.9 Landscape rehabilitation and 2.6 Managing adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens.

2.2Cultural heritage management

Our aim

Identify, protect, conserve and interpret to the public the cultural heritage values of the park and botanic garden.

Background

The park and botanic garden values include historic cultural heritage values. The area which is now the Mount Pitt Section of the park has been the site of a number of significant events in the human history of the island, including its discovery and settlement by Europeans and its defence during World War II. The park contains a number of heritage artefacts relating to World War II.

Phillip Island is a listed place on the Commonwealth Heritage List.

In accordance with the s.367 of the EPBC Act, where a Commonwealth reserve includes a Commonwealth Heritage place, a management plan for the reserve must not be inconsistent with the Commonwealth Heritage management principles prescribed by the EPBC Regulations (Schedule 7B).

Issue

There is a need to broaden knowledge about the historical features of the park and botanic garden.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.2.1Where the values of places in the park and botanic garden that are listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List include cultural heritage values, the places are to be managed in a manner consistent with relevant heritage management principles prescribed by the EPBC Regulations.

2.2.2As far as practicable, historic sites will be identified, conserved and their significance interpreted.

Actions

2.2.3Produce interpretive material and signage to support the historic and cultural heritage of the park and botanic garden.

2.2.4Consult with Norfolk Island historical and cultural agencies and experts, and other stakeholders in relation to the conservation and management of cultural values.

2.3Botanic garden and herbarium collection

Our aims

Establish and maintain a living and herbarium collection representative of Norfolk Island’s vascular flora with an emphasis on providing educational, interpretative and tourism experiences for visitors.

Contribute to the conservation of threatened plant species through the establishment and maintenance of healthy ex-situ plantings and seed collections.

Background

The botanic garden, which covers an area of 5.5 hectares and is adjacent to the park, is located on Mission Road near the Mount Pitt Road entrance to the park.

As noted in Section 3.1, IUCN category and zoning, the botanic garden has been assigned IUCN protected area management category IV, habitat/species management area, to be managed in accordance with the management principles set down in Schedule 8 of the EPBC Regulations and listed in Appendix D.

Of particular relevance to the botanic garden is the final category IV principle which provides that:

If the reserve or zone is declared for the purpose of a botanic garden, it should also be managed for the increase of knowledge, appreciation and enjoyment of Australia’s plant heritage by establishing, as an integrated resource, a collection of living and herbarium specimens of Australian and related plants for study, interpretation, conservation and display.

The botanic garden fulfils varied functions as set out in the aims. The living collection, display and the herbarium collection are valuable resources for the provision of horticultural and botanical information.

Its infrastructure, including the Discovery Centre, the living collection, and the walking tracks, provide a comprehensive picture of the park and botanic garden for education, interpretation and tourism-related activities. A boardwalk provides wheelchair access to the top of the botanic garden. The winding tracks and dense vegetation of the botanic garden provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the sensation of being in an ancient jungle.

Issues

Public paths and infrastructure needs to be monitored and maintained to ensure visitor safety.

The botanic garden’s infrastructure must continue to provide for education, interpretation and tourism-related activities.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.3.1The botanic garden will continue to place a strong focus on education, interpretation and tourism-related activities.

2.3.2As a priority, the remnant lowland subtropical hardwood forest will be maintained.

2.3.3The Director may take actions or authorise (whether by permit, contract, lease, letter or licence) actions by other persons concerning species, including species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act, that are otherwise prohibited by the EPBC Act or Regulations for the purpose of managing the botanic garden’s living collection and herbarium collection.

2.3.4The living and herbarium collections will give priority to plants native to Norfolk Island with an emphasis on EPBC Act listed species.

Actions

2.3.5Maintain the living collection to high curatorial standards.

2.3.6Enhance the living and herbarium collections through the inclusion of threatened plants in ex situ conservation and preserved as herbarium specimens.

2.3.7Maintain the botanic garden’s infrastructure, including the Discovery Centre and associated displays, to reflect the focus on education, interpretation and tourism-related activities.

2.3.8Maintain the herbarium collection as a park resource and for public reference, forwarding duplicates of herbarium specimens to reputable scientific institutions.

2.3.9Make seeds, germplasm and/or vegetative material available to the National Seed Bank, the Millennium Seed Bank at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, or similar collections.

2.4Research and monitoring

Our aim

Research and monitoring activities in the park and botanic garden contribute to improved conservation and management of park and botanic garden values.

Background

Research and surveys provide information about park and botanic garden values, visitor use and impact. Monitoring is an essential management tool for keeping track of changes to the environment and for measuring the success of management actions.

Research and monitoring assist the Director to make decisions about management of the park and botanic garden. This work may be carried out by staff or consultants engaged by the Director or undertaken in partnership with other government agencies, universities, non-government organisations and individuals.

In some cases, organisations and individuals seek to carry out research and monitoring activities for their own purposes for either not-for-profit or commercial purposes.

EPBC legislative provisions relevant to research and monitoring

Under r.12.10 of the EPBC Regulations research may not be undertaken in the park unless it is provided for by, and carried out in accordance with, this plan. Research which involves taking, keeping, injuring, killing or moving native species, or is undertaken for commercial purposes, is prohibited by ss.354 and 354A of the Act except where undertaken in accordance with this plan.

Research which involves actions that affect members of species that are protected under Part 13 of the EPBC Act (i.e. listed threatened species, ecological communities, migratory species, marine species, or cetaceans) must also comply with the provisions of Part 13
of the Act unless done in accordance with this plan. Any research must also address the relevant EPBC Act requirements relating to listed heritage places including places on the Commonwealth Heritage List.

Research or other approved activities may involve accessing or taking biological resources of native species. Access to biological resources (also known as bioprospecting or biodiscovery) is the taking of biological resources of native species for research and development on any genetic resources, or biochemical compounds, comprising or contained in samples or specimens of these species.

Biological resources are defined by the EPBC Act (s.528) as including genetic resources, organisms, parts of organisms, populations and any other biotic component of an ecosystem with actual or potential use or value for humanity. Genetic resources are defined as any material of plant, animal, microbial or other origin that contains
functional units of heredity and that has actual or potential value for humanity.
Part 8A of the EPBC Regulations (made under s.301 of the Act) controls access to
biological resources in Commonwealth areas including the park and botanic garden.
Access to biological resources is also covered by ss.354 and 354A of the EPBC Act if the resources are members of a native species and/or if access is for commercial purposes.

Key features of the EPBC Regulations on bioprospecting as they concern the park are as follows:

Any person who wants to access biological resources must obtain a permit from the Minister.

The “access provider” must agree to the taking of biological resources. The access provider for the park and botanic garden is the Director of National Parks.

Where access is sought for commercial purposes or potential commercial purposes:

(a) The Director must give consent prior to the research being undertaken

(b) There must be a benefit-sharing agreement with the Director

(c) The benefit-sharing agreement must provide for reasonable benefit sharing arrangements

Where access is sought for non-commercial purposes:

(a) Written permission must be obtained from the Director

(b) A statutory declaration must be given to the Director declaring, among other things, that any biological resources taken are not intended to be used for commercial purposes, that a written report will be given to the Director on the results of any research into the biological resources, that samples will not be given to other people (other than voucher specimens to a specified research institution) without permission of the Director and that the person(s) given access will not carry, or allow others to carry out, commercial research or development unless a benefit-sharing arrangement is in place with the Director

(c) Public comment on the proposed access must be sought if the proposal is assessed as being likely to have more than negligible environmental impact.

Issues

Research and monitoring activities should provide information that contributes to effective management of the park and botanic garden.

Information needs to be clearly communicated to the park staff, considered in future management and made available to relevant stakeholders.

Effective methods for storing, sharing and retrieving data are required.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.4.1The Director and organisations and individuals having an agreement with, or permit from, the Director may carry out research and monitoring that involves actions covered by ss.354 and 354A, including species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act.

2.4.2Research and monitoring will be used to help prioritise and, as needed, adapt management actions.

2.4.3Permits authorising research and monitoring may be issued if the activity is consistent with this plan; will not, on balance, threaten the conservation status of a species or ecological community; and will not adversely impact upon park and botanic garden values. An additional consideration may be whether the research activity can reasonably be done outside the park and botanic garden.

2.4.4Access may be provided to biological resources in the park and botanic garden in accordance with Part 8A of the EPBC Regulations, including the requirement to obtain written agreement from the Director or enter into a benefit sharing agreement (as the case may require).

2.4.5Persons carrying out research and monitoring under agreement with, or a permit from, the Director will be required to provide reports to the Director (including progress reports for longer-term research and monitoring).

Actions

2.4.6Conduct, support and/or encourage research and monitoring that assists the conservation and management of the natural values of the park and botanic garden, particularly studies on:

(a)trends in the distribution, breeding and numbers of listed species.

(b)essential factors and procedures to support species translocations and
ex-situ management

(c)seabird populations and breeding behaviour

(d)the reproductive biology of threatened Norfolk Island plants to assist in propagation

(e)the impact and control of threats

(f)potential impacts of chemicals and biological control agents considered for conservation and management purposes

(g)landscape change, vegetation recovery and species distribution on Phillip Island.

2.4.7Develop and maintain systems for collecting, storing and retrieving research and monitoring data to improve accessibility and usability.

2.5Community use of natural resources

Our aim

Allow non-commercial harvesting of resources by the Norfolk Island community while ensuring the protection and conservation of the park and botanic garden’s natural values.

Background

Natural resources such as knots from the Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) and the leaves of the Norfolk Island palm (Rhopalostylis baueri), ti (Cordyline obtecta), and flax (Phormium tenax) are used by the Norfolk Island community for craft, cultural and other purposes.

Fresh fruit is a limited and valued resource only available seasonally on the island.
Island residents use the park as a source of fruit such as guava (Psidium cattleianum cattleianum) and lemon (Citrus jambhiri). There are no restrictions on people collecting guava or lemons from the park.

Historically, the eggs of the sooty tern (Onychoprion fuscata) have been harvested as a food resource from Phillip Island. This practice still continues during a declared harvest period. While the sooty tern is not endangered worldwide, the annual harvest may be affecting the Phillip Island population. The sooty tern is a listed marine species under Part 13 of the EPBC Act, therefore collection of sooty tern eggs is prohibited at all times outside Phillip Island, and can only be collected on Phillip Island during a declared harvest period.

Apart from the number of eggs taken, studies indicate that the effect of sooty tern egg harvesting on the overall population is linked to both the timing of the harvest and its duration. Since 1977, a set season for sooty tern egg harvesting has been implemented. The recent arrival and increase in numbers of Australasian Swamphen (Porphyrio melanotus–locally known as tarler birds) on Phillip Island has also impacted on the breeding of sooty terns on Phillip Island.

Under ss.354 and 354A of the EPBC Act, native species may only be taken in the park and botanic garden in accordance with this plan.

Issues

Community use of natural resources needs to be carried out in an environmentally sustainable way.

Community participation is necessary in determining appropriate use, and level of use, of traditional resources.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.5.1Non-commercial taking of guava and lemons from the park will be allowed.

2.5.2Non-commercial taking of other non-native and native plant material may only be carried on in accordance with a permit, licence or agreement issued by the Director.

2.5.3Sooty tern eggs may only be taken from Phillip Island during a prescribed harvesting season either:

(a)declared in consultation with the Director, under valid legislation applicable to Norfolk Island and the collection of sooty tern eggs from Phillip Island (currently the Birds Protection Act 1913 (NI)), or

(b)otherwise determined by the Director.

Action

2.5.4Seek community participation to identify impacts on the occurrence and distribution of sooty terns in the Norfolk Island National Park.

2.6Managing adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens

Our aim

Effective management of threats to the values of the park and botanic garden.

Background

Many plants and animals have been introduced to Norfolk Island by humans, including some native species within the meaning of the EPBC Act. Several introduced plant and animal species pose a major threat to the native species of Norfolk Island. In addition, native species may, on occasions, impact negatively on other native species and in extreme circumstances may require control action.

Some introduced predators on Norfolk Island, in particular rats and cats, have not become established on Phillip Island, allowing populations of some species that have become locally extinct on Norfolk Island to survive on Phillip Island. Examples include the Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) gecko (Christinus guentheri) and the Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) skink (Oligosoma lichenigera).

Biosecurity measures to prevent new weeds, predators, competitors and pathogens from entering Norfolk Island, or from crossing to Phillip Island, is critical to maintaining park and botanic garden values.

Weeds and other problem plants

Due to the climate of Norfolk Island, weeds in the park and botanic garden are generally fast growing and require ongoing control. Without treatment, weed growth has the potential to significantly impact upon the natural values of the park and botanic garden through competition with native species, altering of microclimates in the park and botanic garden and changing vegetation structure.

The priority Norfolk Island invasive weed species are:

red guava (Psidium cattleianum var. cattleianum)

African olive (Olea europaea africana)

Hawaiian holly (Schinus terebinthifolius)

lantana (Lantana camara)

William Taylor (Ageratina riparia)

kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum)

wild tobacco (Solanum mauritianum)

Formosan lily (Lilium formosanum)

morning glory (Ipomoea cairica and I. indica)

Madeira vine (Anredera cordifoliai)

coral berry (Rivina humilis)

Weeds suppress or eliminate native plants and the animals that depend upon them. They can alter habitat structure as well as the species composition of ecological communities. The impact of changes in vegetation and weed infestation on animals can include the loss of food resources and availability of nesting hollows.

Woody weeds (guava, African olive and Hawaiian holly) have dominated significant areas of the park for many years. They have been a priority for control in many areas of the park, with subsequent landscape rehabilitation required following removal.

Invasive vertebrates

Feral animals pose major threats to the native species of Norfolk Island. Major predators include the black rat (Rattus rattus), Polynesian rat (Rattus exulans), house cat (Felis catus) and feral fowl (Gallus gallus). They are a major threat to listed threatened species under the EPBC Act. None are present on Phillip Island.

The introduced Asian house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) has been recorded at three sites on Norfolk Island and is implicated in the decline of some native gecko species in other parts of its range. The Asian House Gecko is currently absent from Phillip Island but has the potential to severely impact upon the island’s reptile population should it be introduced. Strong biosecurity measures are important between Norfolk Island and Phillip Island to avoid accidental introduction of such threats.

Predation by rodents

Rodents eat birds, bird eggs, nestlings, reptiles, invertebrates (including land snails) and fruit, seeds and flowers. The Polynesian rat was probably introduced about 800 years ago by Polynesian explorers. The black rat was introduced later, possibly as late as 1943, and is considered to be the most destructive predator on Norfolk Island today. Park management has implemented an extensive rat control program since 1992. In March 2006 predation by exotic rats on Australian offshore islands of less than 1,000 square kilometres (100,000 hectares) was listed as a key threatening process under the EBPC Act.

Predation by feral cats

Feral cats (Felis catus) eat birds, nestlings and reptiles. They are a major threat to several listed species and many other native species. The Norfolk Island green parrot is listed in the Threat abatement plan for predation by feral cats (Environment Australia 1999) as one of the species for which feral cats are a known or perceived threat.

Cats are controlled through trapping and removal. National priorities for cat control are defined in the Threat abatement plan for predation by feral cats.

Predation and competition by other introduced and native vertebrates

The crimson rosella (Platycerus elegans), introduced to Norfolk Island and known locally as the red parrot, is a direct competitor of the endangered green parrot. It eats similar foods, has similar nesting requirements and has also been known to break eggs and eject chicks from green parrot nests.

Feral fowl have increased their range and numbers on Norfolk Island. Anecdotal observations indicate that in the park and botanic garden feral fowl are changing the soil moisture regime through extensive disturbance of litter, reducing germination, disturbing seedling roots of rainforest plants, and reducing numbers of some invertebrates–
including critically endangered land snails.

Native species may also impact adversely on one another from time to time or at particular locations. A population of Australasian swamphens (Porphyrio melanotus) have become established on Phillip Island during the life of the previous plan. The presence
of swamphens is believed to be impacting upon the breeding cycle of seabirds as a result of the swamphens destroying and eating eggs and killing young chicks. Sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscata) in particular have been observed in fewer numbers on Phillip
Island and appear to be increasing on Norfolk Island, possibly changing their nesting sites as a result of the emerging threat. The presence of sooty terns on Norfolk Island brings
a new threat to the nesting birds–exposure to the threat of predation by feral cats and rats.

Invasive invertebrates

Close to 1,200 invertebrate taxa have been recorded on Norfolk Island, including 421 species which had not been recorded prior to 2014. It is not clear how many of these invertebrates are exotic or invasive and their potential impacts are also unknown.

A new arrival on Norfolk Island is the palm seed borer (Coccotrypes dactyliperda),
an invasive 1.5-2.5 millimetre beetle that breeds in palm seeds, compromising plant reproduction. It could potentially impact on the island’s kentia palm industry, but the likely impacts on Norfolk’s one indigenous palm species (Rhopalostylis bauerii) are unknown. Initial investigations indicate the beetle is found in the seeds of large numbers of Norfolk Island Palm seed.

The Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) has the potential to cause serious harm to Norfolk Islands’ wildlife. Forming super-colonies, the Argentine Ant competitively displaces most other ant species which in turn compromises ecosystem processes such
as soil aeration, nutrient cycling and seed dispersal. Additionally, ground nesting seabirds and rare species such as the green parrot and Norfolk robin (Petroica multicolour) are
at risk due to the ants’ aggression and need for protein. Other species such as the two indigenous reptiles would be at great risk if the Argentine ant spread to Phillip Island.

Colonies of European honey bee (Apis mellifera) frequently occupy tree hollows which might otherwise be used by nesting birds.

Pathogens

In general, pathogens of native plants and animals in the park and botanic garden are poorly known. Two pathogens are known to have had a significant impact on park and botanic garden values—psittacine circovirus disease (PCD), commonly known as ‘parrot beak and feather disease’, and the root rot fungus Phellinus noxius. These pathogens may occur naturally on Norfolk Island, as they do in Australia, but dispersal of these threats
on Norfolk Island is exacerbated by environmental factors.

PCD was listed as a key threatening process under the EPBC Act in 2001 and the Threat abatement plan for beak and feather disease affecting endangered psittacine species was released in 2005 (DEH 2005). The threat abatement plan identifies the Norfolk Island green parrot as being adversely affected by PCD. A recent study of 50 green parrots suggests that an estimated 8% of the population are affected by the disease.

The root rot fungus Phellinus noxius has been identified as being the principal pathogen causing dieback of Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla). The fungus is a natural component of rainforests in many countries, but its impacts are exacerbated by low levels of soil phosphorous, highlighting the link between seabirds and the island’s ecosystem.

A serious fungal disease of plants in the Myrtaceae family, myrtle rust (Puccinia psidii) has recently arrived on Norfolk Island. Whilst there are no Myrtaceae plants indigenous to Norfolk Island, there are potential risks associated with a number of threatened
plant species. The critically endangered kurrajong (Wikstroemia australis) is one species which is known to be particularly susceptible to disease and myrtle rust has previously been identified as a risk to this species. It is unclear as to whether the red guava, one of Norfolk Island’s principal weed species and a member of the Myrtaceae family, will be negatively affected by myrtle rust.

Issues

Weeds, introduced predators, competitors and pathogens are major threats to park and botanic garden values.

Management of these threats is resource intensive and costly.

Control of current and emerging threats needs to be managed across all of Norfolk Island to enable success within the park and botanic garden.

The recent introduction of a number of biosecurity risks, including the Argentine
ant, Myrtle Rust and Palm Seed Borer to Norfolk Island raises concerns that current biosecurity arrangements may be insufficient to adequately protect park and botanic garden values.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.6.1The Director may take actions or authorise actions by other persons (whether by permit, contract, lease, letter or licence) concerning species, including species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act, that are otherwise prohibited by the EPBC Act or Regulations where they are necessary to implement this plan, or where they are otherwise necessary to manage threatening processes in the park or botanic garden.

2.6.2The Director may use or authorise others (whether by permit, contract, lease, letter or licence) to use chemicals for purposes authorised by this plan, such as invasive species management. Persistent chemicals which may adversely affect the quality of surface water and/or water in aquifer recharge areas must not be used.

2.6.3Subject to risk assessments and required approvals, the Director may introduce, or issue a permit for the introduction of, non-native species into the park or botanic garden for conservation purposes, for example, for use in the biological control of one or more invasive species.

Actions

2.6.4Implement an effective weed removal program, giving priority to those that pose the greatest threat to species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act
(in the critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable categories).

2.6.5Take measures to mitigate the impacts of introduced predators, competitors and pathogens including:

(a)control and/or removal of rats and cats

(b)control and/or removal of other predators and dominant competitors including Australasian swamphens on Phillip Island and crimson rosellas in the Mount Pitt section of the park

(c)rat-proofing bird breeding sites

(d)implementing biosecurity measures, such as boot scrub stations, at major visitor access points within the park or botanic garden

(e)monitoring species which may be susceptible to recently introduced pathogens and invertebrates.

2.6.6Monitor weed coverage, trends in the status of introduced predators, the impact of introduced competitors and the number of major incidents involving pathogens.

2.6.7Work with relevant government organisations, the local community and other stakeholders to ensure there is effective communication and advice provided on the identification and management of introduced competitors and pathogens, both at the time of identification and introduction to the island, and throughout the eradication/management process.

2.6.8Work with the Norfolk Island Community, government organisations and other stakeholders to develop island-wide programs for the management of threats including weeds, rats, cats and feral fowl.

2.6.9Any significant movement of soil or vegetative material (including mulch)
in or out of the park or botanic garden will be inspected for Argentine Ants (Linepithema humile).

2.6.10Work with relevant stakeholders including the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, visitors, tour operators and the local community, to improve biosecurity outcomes for Norfolk and Phillip Islands.

2.6.11Develop and implement a biosecurity plan for Phillip Island.

2.6.12Regularly monitor Phillip Island for invasive species, particularly the black rat, Polynesian rat, mouse, feral cat, Asian house gecko and Argentine ant to enable quick response if an incursion is detected.

2.7Climate change

Our aim

Climate change impacts on park and botanic garden values are better understood and management actions and planning are adapted to take account of the latest available information.

Background

In recent years global warming and its implications for climate change has emerged as
a key issue for biodiversity and environmental management on a global scale. Climate change will amplify existing risks and create new risks for natural and human systems (IPCC 2014).

During the life of the previous management plan, methods used to project our changing climate have improved, with most predictions designated a high or very high confidence rating. While specific climatic conditions are not available for Norfolk Island due to its remoteness, indicative projections of anticipated direction and degree of change may be drawn from scenarios that apply to the New South Wales region.

The park and garden is likely to experience increased annual average temperatures
with more hot days and warm spells. Decreases in winter rainfall events are forecast (medium confidence) with increased intensity of extreme rainfall events. Mean sea
level is projected to continue to rise (estimated 50 centimetres by 2070) and the height of extreme sea-level events will also increase. A harsher fire-weather climate is also anticipated.

While there is improved confidence as to the magnitude and timing of climate changes, the extent to which these changes may affect the natural, cultural and economic values of the park and botanic garden remains uncertain.

Certain aspects of the park and botanic garden may require adaptive management. For example, increased incidences of prolonged dry hot periods as a result of climate change may have disproportionately high adverse impacts on park and botanic garden values because of the soil’s poor moisture holding capacity.

An increased incidence of prolonged hot dry spells may increase the probability of wildfires in the park and botanic garden. While wildfires have not happened to date the flora would be very fire sensitive and would not recover from a hot wildfire. Changes to sea level and temperature may have a profound effect on seabird numbers as marine prey species either change behaviour or change in abundance.

Issues

Climate change impacts on the park and botanic garden are not known with enough certainty to mandate specific actions at the time of preparing this plan.

Adapting management actions to anticipate and respond to climate change impacts on park and botanic garden values will be important.

Actions

2.7.1Where feasible, adapt management priorities and programs in response to improved understanding of climate change impacts. This may include:

(a)Ecosystem and species management (see Section 2.6, Managing adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens)

(b)Emergency response capacity, including wildfire management (see Section
4.5, Visitor safety and incident management)

(c)Infrastructure design, planning, development and maintenance (see Section 4.4, Resource use in park operations)

(d)Visitor management and safety (see Section 4.5, Visitor safety and incident management).

2.7.2Implement actions for the park and botanic garden identified under the Director of National Parks Climate Change Statement 2017-2032 Action Plan.

2.8Landscapes, soils and water

Our aim

Protection of the landscape, soil and water values of the park and botanic garden.

Background

Landscapes

Mount Pitt and Mount Bates, both in the park, are the highest peaks on Norfolk Island. Together with their extensive stands of Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla), they form a dominant visual element of the Norfolk Island landscape.

Popular summit viewing areas provide panoramic views of much of the island, the surrounding sea, Nepean Island and Phillip Island. Views of the spectacular coastal scenery can be enjoyed from the Captain Cook Monument.

Viewing areas, in particular the summits of Mount Pitt and Mount Bates and the Captain Cook Monument area, are major assets for the tourism industry.

The degraded Phillip Island landscape is being rehabilitated to establish a cover of native vegetation.

Soils

Norfolk Island’s volcanic soils are nutrient rich, friable and porous. They do not hold moisture well, so native vegetation is susceptible to stress during long dry periods. Large amounts of soil have been lost from Phillip Island through erosion. Stabilisation of the soil is slowly increasing as vegetation recovers. Difficulties in accessing Phillip Island and the scale of the work necessary to manage recovering vegetation and control woody weeds provide ongoing challenges.

Water

Precipitation on Norfolk Island occurs mainly through rainfall with some fog-drip. The park and botanic garden are thought to be major recharge areas for Norfolk Island’s aquifers and hence for the community’s water supplies. The park and botanic garden are also catchments for surface run-off.

Issues

Maintaining landscape values while providing safe visitor access.

Managing erosion.

Maintaining water quality in aquifer recharge and surface run-off areas.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.8.1Actions taken under this plan must be taken in a manner that will minimise impact on park and botanic garden values including minimising soil erosion, controlling sediment and reducing the impact on aquifer recharge and surface water run-off.

2.8.2Persistent chemicals which may adversely affect the quality of surface water and/or water in aquifer recharge areas will not be used.

2.8.3Mining operations are prohibited in the park and botanic garden.

2.8.4Excavation and relocation of soil, gravel and other earth materials may be undertaken within the park and botanic garden for management purposes.

Actions

2.8.5Manage vegetation, including limited clearing, to maintain significant views.

2.8.6Maintain water collection and management works in the park and botanic garden to provide water for plant propagation and other management purposes.

2.8.7Monitor areas of the park and botanic garden that are susceptible to erosion, implement measures to minimise the occurrence of the soil loss and take action to rectify disturbed areas to ensure public safety, particularly during and following wet weather events. See also Section 4.2.

2.9Landscape rehabilitation

Our aims

Areas of the park and botanic garden are revegetated with appropriate native plants to enhance biodiversity health.

The Mount Pitt section of the park is managed to return, as close as possible, to its condition prior to the arrival of Europeans on Norfolk Island.

The Phillip Island section of the park is managed to return its condition, in parts, to that prior to the arrival of Europeans on Norfolk Island. Parts of the island will need to be managed to ensure suitable habitat for seabirds that have come to depend on bare areas of Phillip Island.

Background

The park and botanic garden have been subject to a long history of disturbance which has caused disruption to ecological processes, species extinctions and major reductions in the extent and quality of ecosystems.

Much vegetation in the park and botanic garden has either been destroyed completely by introduced herbivores or has been displaced by weeds. Some specific ecological processes have been severely damaged or destroyed by past actions.

For example, the removal of over 100,000 breeding providence petrels (Pterodroma solandri) over 100 years ago had a major impact on the nutrient status of the park. The introduction of pigs, goats and rabbits to Phillip Island from 1793 onwards commenced
a devastating loss of vegetation that bound together the fragile soil, denuding the island and resulting in two centuries of substantial and irreversible erosion.

The extent of the historical damage means that it is not feasible to aim to restore the park and botanic garden to the precise state which existed prior to the beginning of either Polynesian or European impacts. For example, it is not practical to recover the extinct species or to reclaim the huge amounts of soil and nutrients lost to sea from Phillip Island.

However, progress can be made towards significant improvements in the state of the remaining ecosystems, the status of species, preventing the further destruction of remaining ecological processes, and re-establishing native vegetation in areas that have been totally denuded of vegetation or overrun by weeds.

Issues

Some areas of the park and botanic garden are either completely denuded of vegetation or very heavily infested with weeds.

Areas cleared of weeds and areas prone to erosion require actions to prevent further erosion and to aid revegetation.

Some native species have adapted to disturbed habitats.

What we are going to do

Actions

2.9.1On a priority basis, revegetate denuded areas and areas cleared of weeds with native vegetation.

2.9.2Undertake rehabilitation activities on Phillip Island to reduce invasive weeds, control erosion and enhance biodiversity.

2.9.3Maintain native plant nurseries on Norfolk Island and Phillip Island to support landscape rehabilitation activities and to support conservation and recovery of EPBC listed threatened plants.

2.9.4Collect seed and actively cultivate native plants to provide for landscape rehabilitation activities in the park and garden.

2.9.5Take species-focused actions to promote recovery of listed plant species.

2.9.6Develop and implement a rehabilitation plan for the plantation areas of the park that occurred within the Forestry Area under the previous management plan that now fall within the area of the park managed under IUCN Category II.

2.10Forestry Area

Our aims

Provide an area for sustainable timber production for the benefit of the Norfolk Island community.

Reduce the extent of eucalypt plantation within the park, replacing it with native timber plantations or native forest.

Ensure eucalypt forests are managed in a way that does not lead to a significant increase in fire risk in the park.

Maintain and/or enhance native biodiversity.

Allow for compatible park visitor use.

Background

The Forestry Area was originally cleared for banana plantations during the 1930s but
after the collapse of the banana industry it developed into a series of dense thickets of weeds, mainly African olive. The area was included in the then Mount Pitt Reserve as
an area reserved for forestry purposes in 1955 and was later declared a public reserve under the Norfolk Island Commons and Public Reserves Ordinance 1936 (NI). Some sections adjacent to the western boundary of the Forestry Area were cleared of olive and eucalypt plantations were established.

The boundary of the Forestry Area, as defined in the first management plan for the
park (1984), was based on an assessment of the extent of heavily weed-infested forest using aerial photography. The boundary was surveyed and marked on the ground during 1992–93.

The primary purpose of the Forestry Area is to produce native species timber for the Norfolk Island community through forestry operations. Under the previous management plan, forestry operations were to be carried on by the Norfolk Island Parks and Forestry Service or an outsourced operator (a forestry operator working on behalf of the Norfolk Island Government).

In 1994 areas of remnant native vegetation in the Forestry Area were surveyed and recommended for preservation due to their high nature conservation values (Davidson, Anderson and Evans 1994). The previous management plans provided that these areas were not to be cleared and weed management be undertaken in and around them by the forestry operator. The area was again mapped in 2010 to determine the vegetation types within the Forestry Area and to consider appropriate future management and use.

An investigation into the viability of forestry operations was commissioned 2012 by an independent forestry expert. It found that the Forestry Area had little economic value for the island and should be rehabilitated to provide increased opportunities for community recreation and tourism. In this plan, the boundary of the Forestry Area has been adjusted to:

Continue to provide a sufficiently large timber resource of eucalypts and pines to meet the needs of the Norfolk Island community while reducing management and maintenance costs to the forestry operator.

Allow for increased recreational and tourism use of the area.

Allow for the return of areas with remnant native vegetation and high conservation value to native forest.

Map 3 shows the revised boundary of the Forestry Zone.

The conduct of forestry operations is subject to ss.354 and 354A of the EPBC Act and may only be carried on in accordance with this plan.

Issues

Forestry practices need to be undertaken safely and sustainably.

Appropriate use should be made of the Forestry Area by park visitors, in a manner that does not have a significant impact on forestry operations.

The mature eucalypt plantations in the Forestry Area increase the risk of wildfire on Norfolk Island. The eucalypt trees have limited practical use on Norfolk Island however would be costly to remove.

Eucalypt plantations now provide habitat to several endemic species on Norfolk Island, including the Norfolk Island green parrot, the Norfolk Island morepork owl, the Norfolk robin and other species including migratory seabirds.

What we are going to do

Policies

2.10.1The Director may issue a permit, contract, licence or other agreement for the harvesting of timber and land management for prescribed sections of the Forestry Area of the park, provided that the operations are conducted:

(a)for the benefit of the Norfolk Island community

(b)in accordance with the written authorisation and conditions issued by the Director

(c)subject to prohibitions, restrictions or determinations made by the Director under the EPBC Regulations

(d)at the cost of the forestry operator

(e)ensuring that all work, health and safety issues are adequately addressed (including WHS plans, risk management and incident reporting) and public liability and insurance requirements are met

2.10.2Proposals for forestry operations will be subject to assessment in accordance with Section 4.1, Assessment of proposals.

2.10.3An authorised forestry operator will be the owner of all felled timber and other products obtained from the conduct of its forestry operations.

2.10.4Areas subject to active forestry operations will be closed to public access to ensure public safety.

2.10.5Permits may be issued for the small-scale harvest and collection of timber from the forestry area for local use.

2.10.6Only native species may be planted in the Forestry Area.

2.10.7Fire-breaks and litter reduction in the Forestry Area will be used to reduce the likelihood of wildfire in the plantations.

2.10.8Park visitors, commercial tour operators and other members of the public may conduct recreational and other activities in the Forestry Area of the park subject to 2.10.4 and in accordance with Section 3. A permit or licence issued by the Director is required for any commercial operations undertaken in the Forestry Area.

Actions

2.10.9In consultation with the Norfolk Island Regional Council and other relevant stakeholders, undertake a review of the Forestry Area to determine its future use and rehabilitation requirements.

Map 3: Forestry Area

Visitor management and use of the park and botanic garden

Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden are places for public education, enjoyment and recreation and also significant places for the conservation of wildlife and other natural resources. The challenge is to provide visitor access and facilities that ensure visitor safety, without compromising the values of the park and botanic garden.

3.1Visitor activities

Our aims

Visitors enjoy and appreciate the experience of visiting the park and botanic garden.

Visitor use of the park and botanic garden is managed in ways that do not impact upon park and botanic garden values.

Background

The types of recreational opportunities appropriate to the Mount Pitt Section of the park are very different from those for Phillip Island and the botanic garden. Furthermore,
the range of recreational experiences sought by Norfolk Island residents is often very different from those sought by visitors to Norfolk Island.

Touring by vehicle, walking, horse riding and pushbike riding are popular leisure activities which take place in the Mount Pitt section of the park. The multi-purpose use of roads and walking tracks has safety implications and requires careful management. Visitors are advised to wear sensible footwear and to take water and food supplies on the longer walks. In extreme wet weather tracks may become slippery and extreme caution is advised.

Access to Phillip Island is by boat and from the boat landing place, people ascend a cliff using fixed ropes and a ladder system.

The main uses of the Phillip Island section of the park by Norfolk Island residents and visitors are fishing, camping, birdwatching and general recreation. All activities on
Phillip Island have associated risks concerning access, weather and surface conditions, and rescue capacity should an accident occur. Visitors to Phillip Island are advised to ensure that they have adequate clothing and supplies, and are advised that they should only attempt to visit the island accompanied by a professional permitted guide or an experienced Norfolk Island resident.

The park boundary extends to the high water mark where it meets the coastline. The shore and marine waters below the high water mark fall within the Norfolk Marine Park, also managed by the Director of National Parks as part of the Temperate East Commonwealth Marine Reserves Network. There may be opportunities during the life of the plan for activities to occur that incorporate use of the both the park and the marine reserve, such as scuba diving and snorkelling tours or establishment of visitor infrastructure in the park that support activities undertaken in the marine reserve.

Issue

Striking a balance between providing opportunities for the appropriate use, appreciation and enjoyment of the park and botanic garden by a diversity of visitors, whilst protecting the natural and cultural values and public safety.

What we are going to do

Policies

3.1.1Visitor activities and use will be managed to protect park and botanic garden values, maximise visitor safety and enhance visitor experience.

3.1.2The Director may prohibit or restrict activities that present a risk to public safety or may prohibit or restrict access to areas of the park and botanic garden where it is considered necessary to do so to protect the values of the those areas, biodiversity or heritage in these areas, use by other persons, or in the interests of public safety.

3.1.3Tourists who wish to visit Phillip Island will be encouraged to seek the assistance of, and be accompanied by, a permitted tour operator with knowledge of Phillip Island access and conditions.

3.1.4To enhance biosecurity visitors must not take animals, plants or seeds to Phillip Island.

3.1.5Walking dogs is allowed in the Mount Pitt section of the park provided that they are kept on a leash at all times to ensure the protection of vulnerable wildlife.

3.1.6Horse riding and mountain bike riding is allowed on public access roads and tracks in the Mount Pitt section of the park (see Map 4). The Director may restrict access to certain tracks and sections of the park for horse riding or mountain bike riding to protect track surfaces and park values, or improve safety for walkers. Any such restrictions will be clearly identified through appropriate signage.

3.1.7Permits or licences may be issued for public gatherings of more than 15 persons in the park or botanic garden.

3.1.8Climbing in the park is allowed where required to negotiate part of the designated track system of the park or where associated with a research activity conducted in accordance with a permit or licence.

3.1.9Permits for activities prohibited by r.12.26 of the EPBC Regulations (adventurous activities) will not be issued or entered into unless the Director is satisfied
that the activity will not adversely impact upon the park or botanic garden,
is consistent with appropriate appreciation and enjoyment, will not interfere with other park or botanic garden users, does not present an unreasonable risk to public and staff safety, and the proponent has sufficient safety and rescue capacity available.

3.1.10Non-commercial operation of a remotely piloted aircraft within or above the park or botanic garden requires the written permission of the park manager
and is subject to General Safety Rules to ensure that use of the remotely piloted aircraft does not create a hazard to another aircraft, person or property.

3.1.11As the park and botanic garden is within 5.5 kilometres of an airfield, remotely piloted aircraft must not be operated:

(a)on the approach and departure path, or

(b)within the aircraft movement area, or

(c)create a hazard to aircraft that may be using those areas.

3.1.12Permits may be issued for the scattering of ashes or installation of plaques in the park and botanic garden.

3.1.13Firearms and other equipment and devices covered by r.12.18 of the EPBC Regulations must not be brought into, or used in, the park or botanic garden except in accordance with a permit under the Regulations. Permits will only be issued in exceptional circumstances.

Actions

3.1.14Work in partnership with the local community and relevant organisations to identify opportunities to increase the quality, type and number of nature-based visitor experiences in the park and botanic garden.

3.2Visitor information, education and interpretation

Our aim

Inform visitors and the community about park and botanic garden values and their ongoing protection and conservation.

Background

Well-prepared information about park and botanic garden values and management can add to the quality of the visitor experience and is likely to benefit protection of the area. Visitors are able to obtain information about the park and botanic garden from:

pre-visit tourism industry information

website and social media

brochures and publications

interpretive and regulatory signage

commercial tour operators.

Information is available on Norfolk Island from Park Headquarters and from the tourism information centre in Burnt Pine. The botanic garden is home to the Discovery Centre which provides information on activities within the park and botanic garden as well as significant detail about the environmental history and values of the park and botanic garden and Norfolk Island as a whole.

The botanic garden is a hub for teaching people about the natural history of Norfolk Island, including examples of its flora within the living collection. Education and interpretive services are critical to visitors’ ability to get the most from their visit to the botanic garden. Plant labels clearly identify species within the botanic garden.

Issue

Appropriate information about an area’s values and management can add to the quality of a visitor’s experience and is likely to benefit protection of the area.

What we are going to do

Policy

3.2.1All signage and interpretive material for walking tracks shall include advice on location, direction, degree of difficulty, likely time to traverse, and any relevant safety issues.

Actions

3.2.2Review and maintain high quality interpretive information for visitors, commercial operators, guides and other stakeholders on the values of the
park and botanic garden and relevant safety and biosecurity issues through brochures, signage, plant labelling in the botanic gardens, media articles and briefings.

3.2.3Undertake regular visitor surveys during the life of this plan to measure visitor satisfaction and appreciation of park values, working with relevant stakeholders to determine visitation rates.

3.3Commercial tourism and other commercial activities

Our aim

Ensure that commercial activities in the park and botanic garden promote park
and botanic garden values and enhance visitor experience without compromising management actions or the cultural and natural values of the park and botanic
garden.

Background

Parts of the park and botanic garden are managed to provide opportunities for public recreation and enjoyment. This creates opportunities for local tourism businesses to provide products and services to visitors to the park and botanic garden.

Commercial activities which may take place within the Mount Pitt section of the park include tours by bus, mountain bikes, horse riding and walking as well as photography and events management. Commercial operators are also permitted to operate guided walking tours on Phillip Island.

Note: This list may be amended during the life of this plan as new information becomes available.

Key

CAMBA Listed under the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China for the Protection of Migratory Birds and their Environment

JAMBA Listed under the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of Japan for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Birds in Danger of Extinction and their Environment

ROKAMBAListed under the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the Republic of Korea for the Protection of Migratory Birds

Bonn Listed under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

Threat Status Threatened species status under the EPBC Act

CE     Listed under the EPBC Act as critically endangered
EN     Listed under the EPBC Act as endangered
VU    Listed under the EPBC Act as vulnerable
EX     Listed under the EPBC Act as extinct

MarineListed as a marine species under the EPBC Act

Appendix D

Management principles in Schedule 8 to the EPBC Regulations relevant to Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden

EPBC Regulation schedules and Management Principles	Sections of management plan that address principles
Australian IUCN reserve management principles Part 1 - General administrative principles *1 Community participation* Management arrangements should, to the extent practicable, provide for broad and meaningful participation by the community, public organisations and private interests in designing and carrying out the functions of the reserve or zone.	2.5, 3.3, 4.1, 4.7
*2 Effective and adaptive management* Management arrangements should be effective and appropriate to the biodiversity objectives and the socio-economic context of the reserve or zone. They should be adaptive in character to ensure a capacity to respond to uncertainty and change.	2.1, 2.4, 2.6,
*3 Precautionary principle* A lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent degradation of the natural and cultural heritage of a reserve or zone where there is a threat of serious or irreversible damage.	2.4, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 4.1, 4.9
*4 Minimum impact* The integrity of a reserve or zone is best conserved by protecting it from disturbance and threatening processes. Potential adverse impacts on the natural, cultural and social environment and surrounding communities should be minimised as far as practicable.	2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 4.1
*5 Ecologically sustainable use* If resource use is consistent with the management principles that apply to a reserve or zone, it should (if it is carried out) be based on the principle (the principle of ecologically sustainable use) that: (a) natural resources should only be used within their capacity to sustain natural processes while maintaining the life-support systems of nature; and (b) the benefit of the use to the present generation should not diminish the potential of the reserve or zone to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations.	2.5, 2.10, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.7
*6 Transparency of decision-making* The framework and processes for decision-making for management of the reserve or zone should be transparent. The reasons for making decisions should be publicly available, except to the extent that information, including information that is culturally sensitive or commercial-in-confidence, needs to be treated as confidential.	4.1, 4.7

EPBC Regulation schedules and Management Principles		Sections of management plan that address principles
Part 2 - Principles for each IUCN category
*3 National Park (category II)*
3.01	The reserve or zone should be protected and managed to preserve its natural condition according to the following principles:
3.02	· Natural and scenic areas of national and international significance should be protected for spiritual, scientific, educational, recreational or tourist purposes.	2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.5
3.03	· Representative examples of physiographic regions, biotic communities, genetic resources, and native species should be perpetuated in as natural a state as possible to provide ecological stability and diversity.	2.1, 2.3, 2.6, 2.8, 2.9, 4.1
3.04	· Visitor use should be managed for inspirational, educational, cultural and recreational purposes at a level that will maintain the reserve or zone in a natural or near natural state.	3.1, 3.3, 4.1
3.05	· Management should seek to ensure that exploitation or occupation inconsistent with these principles does not occur.	2.4, 2.5, 2.10, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8
3.06	· Respect should be maintained for the ecological, geomorphologic, sacred and aesthetic attributes for which the reserve or zone was assigned to this category.	2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6, 2.8, 2.9, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.6, 4.8
3.07	· The needs of indigenous people should be taken into account, including subsistence resource use, to the extent that they do not conflict with these principles.	N/A
3.08	· The aspirations of traditional owners of land within the reserve or zone, their continuing land management practices, the protection and maintenance of cultural heritage and the benefit the traditional owners derive from enterprises, established in the reserve or zone, consistent with these principles should be recognised and taken into account.	N/A
*5 Habitat/species management area (category IV)*
5.01	The reserve or zone should be managed primarily, including (if necessary) through active intervention, to ensure the maintenance of habitats or to meet the requirements of collections or specific species based on the following principles:
5.02	· Habitat conditions necessary to protect significant species, groups or collections of species, biotic communities or physical features of the environment should be secured and maintained, if necessary through specific human manipulation.	2.1, 2.3, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 4.2, 4.3
5.03	· Scientific research and environmental monitoring that contribute to reserve management should be facilitated as primary activities associated with sustainable resource management.	2.4
5.04	· The reserve or zone may be developed for public education and appreciation of the characteristics of habitats, species or collections and of the work of wildlife management.	2.3, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1
5.05	· Management should seek to ensure that exploitation or occupation inconsistent with these principles does not occur.	2.3, 2.5, 3.3, 4.1
5.06	· People with rights or interests in the reserve or zone should be entitled to benefits derived from activities in the reserve or zone that are consistent with these principles.	2.5, 3.1, 4.1, 4.7, 4.8
5.07	· If the reserve or zone is declared for the purpose of a botanic garden, it should also be managed for the increase of knowledge, appreciation and enjoyment of Australia’s plant heritage by establishing, as an integrated resource, a collection of living and herbarium specimens of Australian and related plants for study, interpretation, conservation and display.	1.3, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2
*7 Managed resource protected area (category VI)*
7.01	The reserve or zone should be managed mainly for the sustainable use of natural ecosystems based on the following principles:
7.02	· The biological diversity and other natural values of the reserve or zone should be protected and maintained in the long term.	2.1, 2.3, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 2.10, 4.1
7.03	· Management practices should be applied to ensure ecologically sustainable use of the reserve or zone.	2.5, 2.10, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1
7.04	· Management of the reserve or zone should contribute to regional and national development to the extent that this is consistent with these principles.	2.5, 2.10, 3.1, 3.3, 4.7

Bibliography and further reading

Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand, Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, & Forestry Ministers (1999) National weeds strategy: a strategic approach to weed problems of national significance, rev. ed., Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra.

Anderson, JG (1990) Supplementary weed control program for Norfolk Island National Park, Report to ANCA, Norfolk Island.

Anderson, JG & Cochrane, K (1995) Assessment of population numbers of Norfolk’s threatened plants (Norfolk Island National Park), Report to ANCA, Norfolk Island.

Anderson, JG (1997) Establishing a weed control strategy for the preservation and protection of the endangered plants of Norfolk Island, Report to ANCA, Norfolk Island.

Australian Biological Resources Study (1994) Flora of Australia, Volume 49, Oceanic islands 1, ABRS, Canberra.

Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service (1982) Draft plan of management: Mount Pitt Reserve and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden, ANPWS, Canberra.

Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service (1984) Plan of management: Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden, ANPWS, Canberra.

Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service (1989) Phillip Island revised draft plan of management, ANPWS, Canberra.

Australian Nature Conservation Agency (1995) Norfolk Island walking tracks, ANCA, Canberra.

Australian Nature Conservation Agency (1995) Phillip Island resource assessment, unpublished ANCA report, Canberra.

Bell, BD (1990) The status and management of the White-breasted White-eye and other birds on Norfolk Island, unpublished report to the ANPWS.

Benson, ML (1980) ‘Dieback of Norfolk Island pine in its natural environment’, Australian Forestry, Vol. 43, no. 4: pp. 245–252.

Benson, ML (1985) Forest working plan for Norfolk Island, Forestry and Timber Bureau, Canberra.

Benson, ML (1992) Report on the forest working plan for Norfolk Island, unpublished report to the Norfolk Island Government.

Butler, G (1990) Propagation manual produced for the ANPWS and forestry section of Norfolk Island, unpublished report to the ANPWS.

Christian, M L (2005) Norfolk Island… the birds, Green Eyes Publications, Kingston, Norfolk Island.

Cogger, HG, Cameron, EE, Sadlier, RA (1979) The terrestrial reptiles of islands in the Norfolk Island complex. Unpublished report to the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service, Canberra.

Cogger, HG, Cameron, EE, Sadlier, RA, & P Eggler (1993) The action plan for Australian reptiles, ANCA, Canberra.

Cogger, HG (2004) Draft recovery plan for the threatened lizards Chritinus guentheri and Oligosoma lichenigera on Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands. Unpublished draft report to the Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra.

Cogger, HG, Muir, G, & Shea, G (2005) A survey of the terrestrial reptiles of Norfolk Island March 2005, unpublished report to the Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra.

Commonwealth of Australia (1997) Norfolk Island weed control manual (ed. P Ziesing) Environment Australia, Norfolk Island.

Crouchley, D (1989) Norfolk Island Green Parrot consultancy report, unpublished report to the ANPWS, Canberra.

Davidson, PM, Anderson, J, & O Evans (1994) Native vegetation within the forestry zone of the Norfolk Island National Park, unpublished report to the ANCA, Norfolk Island.

Department of the Environment and Heritage (2005) Threat abatement plan for beak and feather disease affecting endangered psittacine species, DEH, Canberra.

Director of National Parks (2008) Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Management Plan 2008-2018, Parks Australia, Canberra

Director of National Parks (2010) Norfolk Island Region Threatened Species Recovery Plan. Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra.

Edgecombe, J (1991) Norfolk Island—South Pacific: island of history and many delights, J Edgecombe, Thornleigh, NSW.

Environment Australia (1999) Threat abatement plan for predation by feral cats, Environment Australia, Canberra.

Evans, O (1987) Rat index line trapping, unpublished report to the ANPWS, Norfolk Island.

Forshaw, JM (1976) Nature conservation on Norfolk Island, Report of visit 25–29 July 1976, unpublished report to the ANPWS, Canberra.

Forshaw, JM (1981) Australian parrots, 2nd ed., Lansdowne Press, Melbourne.

Fullagar, P (1978a) Report on the rabbits on Phillip Island, Norfolk Island, CSIRO, Canberra.

Fullagar, P (1978b) Norfolk Island birds, unpublished report released at RAOU Congress, Norfolk Island.

Garnett, S (1992) The action plan for Australian birds, ANPWS, Canberra.

Gilmour, P & C Helman (1989) The vegetation of Norfolk Island National Park, unpublished report to the ANPWS, Canberra.

Griffith University (1994) Norfolk Island National Park visitor survey, unpublished report to the ANCA, Canberra.

Gutteridge, Haskins & Davey Pty Ltd. (1994) Asset management report, unpublished report to the ANCA, Canberra.

Hart, R (1994) Assessment of plant practices and equipment for propagation of Norfolk Island native plants, unpublished report to the ANCA, Norfolk Island.

Invasive Species Council and Island Conservation (2017) Norfolk Island: Protecting an Ocean Jewel. Recommendations for stronger biosecurity for the Norfolk Island group. Invasive Species Council and Island Conservation. Fairfield, Victoria, Australia.

Iredale, T (1945) ‘The land mollusca of Norfolk Island’, Australian Zoology 11: pp. 46–71.

Jurd, G (ed.) (1989) Norfolk Island environment book: a teachers handbook, ANPWS, Canberra.

Lane, BA, Bezuijen, MR, Greenwood, D, Carr, GW & Ward, R (1998) Recovery plan for Norfolk Island Parrot (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae cookii), Ecology Australia, Fairfield (Vic).

Major, R (1989) Reproductive output and recruitment of the Norfolk Island Scarlet Robin (Petroica multicolor multicolor), unpublished report to the ANPWS, RAOU, Melbourne.

Mills, K. (2007). The Flora of Norfolk Island. 1. The Indigenous Flora. The Author, Jamberoo (NSW).

Mills, K. (2007). The Flora of Norfolk Island. 2. Epiphytes and Mistletoes. The Author,

Jamberoo (NSW).

Mills, K. (2007). The Flora of Norfolk Island. 3. The Coastal Species. The Author, Jamberoo, (NSW).

Mills, K. (2007). The Flora of Norfolk Island. 4. The Naturalised Species. The Author, Jamberoo, (NSW).

Naumann, ID (1990) ‘The aculeate wasps and bees (Hymenoptera) of Norfolk and Phillip Islands’, Australian Entomological Magazine, Vol. 17, no. 1: pp. 17–28.

Olsen, PD (1986) Status and conservation of the Norfolk Island Boobook Owl Ninox novaeseelandiae undulata, unpublished report to the ANPWS.

Parks Australia (2000) Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden plans of management, Parks Australia, Canberra.

Parks Australia (2007) Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Draft Management Plan 2007, Parks Australia, Canberra.

Rooke, I (1985) Survey of the Norfolk Island Boobook Owl and White-breasted White-eye, unpublished report to the ANPWS, RAOU, Melbourne.

Schodde, R, Fullagar, P & Hermes, N (1983) A review of Norfolk Island birds: past and present, ANPWS Special Publication No. 8, ANPWS, Canberra.

Stevenson, P, Yorkston, H, & Greenwood, D (1995) Norfolk Island Green Parrot recovery program 1995–96 draft interim plan, unpublished ANCA report.

Strahan, R (ed.) (1983) The Australian Museum complete book of Australian mammals, Angus and Robertson, Sydney.

Sykes, WR & Atkinson, IAE (1988) Rare and endangered plants of Norfolk Island, Botany Division, DSlR, New Zealand.

Taylor, RH (1985) Status, habits and conservation of Cyanoramphus parakeets in the New Zealand region, lCBP Technical Publication No 3, ed. Moors: pp. 195–211, Cambridge.

Tierney, J.W. (1989) Report on Investigation into Kurrajong (Wikstroemia australis) Decline and Phellinus noxius Root Rot Control on Norfolk Island, ANPWS

Index

acronyms and abbreviations, 65–6

access to biological resources, 18–19

actions

adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens, 25–6

Botanic Garden and herbarium collection, 17

business systems, 45

capital works and infrastructure, 55

climate change impacts, 27

commercial tourism and activities, 41

community use of natural resources, 21

compliance and enforcement, 59

cultural heritage management, 15

Forestry Area, 32

IUCN categories and zoning, 9

landscape rehabilitation, 30

landscape, soils and water, 28

management plan implementation and evaluation, 64

natural heritage management, 14

neighbours, stakeholders and partnerships, 61

research and monitoring, 19

resource use in park operations, 56

roads and tracks, 49

threatened native species, 14

visitor information, education and interpretation, 39

visitor management, 38

visitor safety and incident management, 58

activities not covered by plan, 62

activities, proposals for, 44–7

adventure tourism, 57

adverse impacts, management of, 21–6

African olive, 12, 21, 30

agreements

benefit-sharing, 18–19

forestry operations, 32

international, 72–3

research and monitoring, 19

aircraft, 37–8, 41

alternative energy use, 56

animals

bioprospecting, 18–19

introduced and invasive, 12, 13, 20, 21–6

listed threatened species, 13–14, 74–5

native, 4, 12–14, 29, 30–2

predatory, 13, 21, 22, 25

recovery and threat abatement plans, 14

relocation and captive breeding, 14

research and monitoring, 17–18

see also birds, reptiles

Annual Report, 64

ants, 23, 25

aquifers, 28

Araucaria heterophylla see Norfolk Island pine

Argentine ants, 23, 25

artefacts, 4, 15

ashes, scattering of, 38

Asian house gecko, 22

assessment procedures, 45–7

Australasian swamphen, 20, 23, 25

Australian Border Force, 57

Australian Federal Police, 57

bats, 13

beak and feather disease see psittacine circovirus disease

bees, 23

beetles, introduced, 23

benefit-sharing agreements, 18–19

bibliography and further reading, 81–3

bioprospecting and biodiscovery, 18–19

biosecurity, 21, 22, 25, 37

birds, 4, 23, 26

climate change impacts on, 26

egg harvesting, 20–1

introduced and invasive, 22–3

listed threatened species, 4, 13, 74–5

native, 13

species relocation, 14

see also migratory species

black rat, 22

boardwalks, 16, 50

Bonn Convention, 72–3

botanic garden see Norfolk Island Botanic Garden

budget, 56, 63

Burnt Pine, 38

business systems, 44–7

capital works and infrastructure, 16, 46, 54–5, 63 see also boardwalks; roads; walking tracks

captive breeding, 14

cars see vehicle access

cats, feral, 22, 23, 25

chemical use, 25, 28

China–Migratory Birds Agreement (CAMBA), 72

climate change impacts, 26–7

climbing, 37

commercial operations, 39–41

commercial tourism, 39–41, 49

Commonwealth Heritage List, 4, 15, 17, 69

community consultation and liaison, 60–1 see also stakeholders and partnerships

compliance and enforcement, 59

conservation significance, 4–5

controlled actions, 44–5, 46, 68, 70

Convention on Biological Diversity, 73

Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn Convention), 72–3

coral berry, 22

Cordyline obtecta, 20

crimson rosella, 23, 25

critically endangered species, 12, 13, 23, 24

cultural heritage management, 15–19, 69

decision-making process, 46

Department of the Environment and Energy, 63

Director of National Parks, i, 67

disabled access, 16, 48–50, 55

disasters and emergencies, 56–7, 58

Discovery Centre, 12, 16, 38

dogs, 37

eastern free-tail bat, 13

egg harvesting, 20–1

emergency response and services, 56–7, 58

enforcement see compliance and enforcement

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, i, 3, 67–72

assignment of IUCN categories under, 8, 16

prohibited activities under, 14

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000, 18

heritage management principles, 15

IUCN category management principles, 8, 16, 78–80

prohibited activities under, 13, 14, 38, 48, 57

environmental impact assessments, 47, 69–70

erosion, 12, 28

eucalypts, 30–1

European honey bee, 23

European settlement, 3, 15

expenditure, 63–4

fauna see animals; birds

fees and charges, 41, 63

feral animals see animals

feral species control, 22, 25

financial management, 44–5, 55–6, 63–4

fire risk, 26, 31, 32, 58

firearms, 38

first aid, 49, 58

flora see plants

Forestry Area, 9, 12, 30–3

Formosan lily, 22

four-wheel-drive tours, 49

fowl, feral, 22, 23

fruits, native, 20

funding, 56, 63

fungal diseases, 24

geckos, 13, 21, 22

Gould’s wattled bat, 13

green parrot see Norfolk Island green parrot

greenhouse gas management, 56

guava, native, 20

guava, red, 21–2, 24

guns, 38

Hawaiian holly, 21

herbarium collection, 12, 15–17

heritage protection see cultural heritage protection; natural heritage protection

historic sites, 4, 15

horse riding, 37, 39, 48

impact assessment procedures, 46, 62

incident management and reporting, 56–8

information see tourism; interpretive materials and signage

infrastructure see capital works and infrastructure

insects, 23

insurance, commercial public liability, 40

international agreements, 72–3

International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), iii

categories and zoning, 8–9

management principles, 78–80

interpretation of Management Plan terms, 65–6

interpretive materials and signage, 15, 16, 38–9, 48–50, 56

introduced and invasive species see animals; birds; plants

invertebrates, introduced, 23

issues

activities not covered by management plan, 62

adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens, 24

Botanic Garden and herbarium collection, 16

business systems, 45

capital works and infrastructure, 54

climate change impacts, 27

commercial tourism and activities, 40

community use of natural resources, 20

compliance and enforcement, 59

cultural heritage management, 15

Forestry Area, 31

landscape rehabilitation, 29

landscape, soils and water, 28

management plan implementation and evaluation, 63

natural heritage management, 14

neighbours, stakeholders and partnerships, 61

research and monitoring, 19

resource use in park operations, 55

roads and tracks, 48–9

threatened native species, 14

visitor information, education and interpretation, 39

visitor management, 37

visitor safety and incident management, 57

Japan–Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA), 72

kikuyu, 21

kurrajong, 24

land snails, 23

landscapes, 27, 29–30

landscaping materials, 55

lantana, 21

leases and subleases, 39–41, 54, 62 see also permits and licences

legislation, 3, 67–73

research and monitoring, 17–18

lemons, native, 20

licences see permits and licences

listed threatened species, 4, 13–14, 44, 69, 74–7

research and monitoring, 17–19

threats to, 22–3

living collection, 12, 15–17

Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) gecko, 13, 21

Lord Howe Island (Norfolk Island) skink, 13, 21

Madeira vine, 22

Management Plan, i

activities not covered by, 62

commencement and termination, 8

implementation and evaluation, 63–4

interpretation, 65–6

vision and objectives, iii

management plans, 30–1, 70–2

management principles, 78–80

maps

access to Norfolk Island Botanic Garden, 52

access to Norfolk Island National Park, Mount Pitt Section, 50

access to Norfolk Island National Park, Phillip Island Section, 53

Forestry Area, 33

IUCN categorisation of zones, 10

location of National Park and Botanic Garden, 2

marine search and rescue, 57

matters of national environmental significance, 44, 70

migratory species, 17, 31, 69, 72–3

mining, prohibition on, 68

Minister

appointment of rangers and wardens, 57

approval of management plans, 70

assessment of proposals, 44, 70

bioprospecting, 18

molluscs, native, 13

monitoring activities see research and monitoring

morepork see Norfolk Island morepork owl

morning glory, 22

Mount Pitt Section, 3, 12, 15

commercial activities in, 39

landscape rehabilitation, 29–30

tourism and activities, 36–8

mountain bike riding, 37, 39, 48

myrtle rust, 24

Nagoya Protocol, 73

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975, 3, 67

National Seed Bank, 17

native species see animals; plants

natural heritage management, 12–14, 69

natural resources, community use of, 20–1

Nepean Island, 3

Norfolk Island, 3

Norfolk Island Administrator, 60

Norfolk Island Botanic Garden, 3, 12, 15–17, 38

heritage and natural values, 4

IUCN category and zoning, 8–9, 16

social and economic values, 5

vision and management objectives, iii

Norfolk Island flax, 20

Norfolk Island green parrot, 13, 14, 22, 23, 24, 31

Norfolk Island legislation, 70

Norfolk Island morepork owl, 13, 31

Norfolk Island National Park, 3

heritage and natural values, 4

IUCN category and zoning, 8–9

social and economic values, 5

vision and management objectives, iii

Norfolk Island National Park Advisory Committee, 41, 44–5, 60–1

Norfolk Island National Park and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden Act 1984, 3, 67

Norfolk Island palm, 20, 23

Norfolk Island pine, 20, 24, 27

Norfolk Island Region Threatened Species Recovery Plan, 13

Norfolk Island Regional Council, 12, 60

Norfolk robin, 23, 31

Olea europaea see African olive

palm seed borer, 23

Parks Australia, 60, 63

Parks Australia Compliance and Enforcement Manual, 59

ParkSafe program, 58

partnerships see stakeholders and partnerships

pathogens, introduced, 12, 24

permits and licences, 62

adventurous activities, 37

capital works and infrastructure, 54

chemical use, 25

commercial tourism, 39–41, 49

compliance and enforcement, 59

forestry operations, 32

public gatherings, 37

research and monitoring, 19

scattering of ashes and installation of plaques, 38

Phillip Island, 3, 15, 48

artificial structures, 54

erosion, 12, 29

heritage and natural values, 4, 27

introduced species, 4, 12, 20, 22–3, 29–30

IUCN category, 9

landscape rehabilitation, 29–30

native species, 13, 14, 20–1

tourism and activities, 36–8, 39

visitor safety, 49, 57

Phormium tenax see Norfolk Island flax

plants

introduced and invasive, 21–6, 30–2

listed threatened species, 4, 13–14, 76–7

native, 4, 12–14, 29–30

recovery and threat abatement plans, 14

research and monitoring, 17–18

see also herbarium collection; listed threatened species; Norfolk Island Botanic Garden; timber production

policies

activities not covered by management plan, 62

adverse impacts of plants, animals and pathogens, 24–5

Botanic Garden and herbarium collection, 16

business systems, 45

capital works and infrastructure, 54–5

commercial tourism and activities, 40–1

community use of natural resources, 20–1

cultural heritage management, 15

Forestry Area, 32

IUCN categories and zoning, 9

landscape, soils and water, 28

management plan implementation and evaluation, 64

natural heritage management, 14

neighbours, stakeholders and partnerships, 61

research and monitoring, 19

resource use in park operations, 56

roads and tracks, 49

threatened native species, 14

visitor information, education and interpretation, 39

visitor management, 37–8

visitor safety and incident management, 58

Polynesian rat, 22

predators see animals

proposals, assessment of, 44–7

providence petrels, 29

Psidium cattleianum see guava, red

psittacine circovirus disease, 24

rainfall, 26, 28

rangers, 59

rats see rodents, introduced

recovery plans, native species, 13, 14

reptiles, 13, 23 see also listed threatened species

Republic of Korea–Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (ROKAMBA), 72

research and monitoring, 17–19, 25–6, 64

resources

community use, 20–1, 30

use in park operations, 55–6

Rhopalostylis bauerii see Norfolk Island palm

risk management, 56–8

Risk Watch List, 57, 63

roads, 48–50 see also walking tracks

rodents, introduced, 13, 22, 23, 25

root rot fungus, 24

safety, 16, 36, 39, 48–50, 56–8

scenic flights, 41

Schinus terebinthifolius see Hawaiian holly

seabirds, 4, 19, 20, 23, 26

search and rescue, 58

Second World War see World War II

seed banks, 17

signage see interpretive materials and signage

skinks, 13, 21

soils, 28

sooty terns, 20, 23

staff, 58, 59, 63–4

stakeholders and partnerships, 12, 15, 25, 41, 59, 60–61

Statement of Significance, 4

surveys, 17, 39

threat abatement plans, 14, 22, 24

threatened species see listed threatened species

timber production, 12, 30–3

timber, imported, 55

tourism, 5, 16, 30–1, 36–41

trees see plants

vegetation see plants

vehicle access, 48–50

vertebrates, introduced, 22–3

viewing areas, 27

visitors, 5, 36–41

with disabilities, 16, 48–50, 55

information and education, 15, 16, 38–9

safety, 16, 36, 39, 48–50, 56–8

volunteers, 58, 61

walking tours, 39

walking tracks, 16, 36, 39, 48–53

wardens, 57, 59

waste products, 55–6

water, 28

weather, 26–8

weeds see plants

wild tobacco, 22

wildfires see fire risk

William Taylor weed, 21

World War II, 4, 15

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