Biodiversity Strategy - Gosford City Council - NSW Government

education and training opportunities are provided from workshops on native plant propagation,
specific fauna (frogs, insects, mammals) to whale watching and rescue. The training program
not only raises the awareness of biodiversity issues in the community but also increases the
skills base of those wishing to take an active role in natural resource management.
A - 3.3.2
Brisbane Water Estuary Processes Study
The Brisbane Water Estuary Process Study aims to identify enhancement, development and
management needs to ensure the long-term ecological sustainability of the estuary. It consists
of a Processes Study. Associated studies that have been undertaken are the Estuary
Biodiversity Study and Estuary Plankton Study.
A - 3.3.3
Ecological Research Projects
Council initiated an Ecologically Sustainable Research Committee as part of the Environmental
Levy. Ecological Research is now funded yearly, with biodiversity related project outlined below.
Completed projects
The Effect of Catchment Disturbance on Seston Quality and Quantity on
Sydney RockOysters in Brisbane Water
This research investigated the effect of anthropogenic activity within the catchment
on seston quality and quantity in Brisbane Water, and determined the impact on
Sydney rock oysters ability to feed efficiently. The results contributed to our
understanding of the factors controlling the ecological processes occurring in
Brisbane Water.
Spatial Modelling of Yellow-bellied Glider habitat
This research investigated habitat requirements and preferences of the Yellowbellied
Glider throughout Gosford. The project refined a habitat model that is
assisting in conservation planning for this vulnerable species.
Evaluation of ecological impacts from openings of coastal lagoons
This study assessed the effects of artificial openings of our coastal lagoons on the
density of individual species and the structure of macro-invertebrate assemblages
occurring in lagoon entrance barriers.
Impacts of urban development on urban stream invertebrate communities
This research used the rapid assessment system AUSRIVAS (Australian River
Assessment System) to assess the variability in macro-invertebrates present in
streams impacted on by urban development, and those in a natural state. This
information will correspond to water quality information from the same sites to get an
understanding of the impacts of urban development and poor water quality on the
biological side of the system.
Investigation of a fungal pathogen as a potential mycoherbicide to manage
Alligator weed
This research trialled a fungus native to Argentina and Brazil (where the noxious
weed Alligator weed originates) as a control agent for the weed. The development of
effective control measures for Alligator weed will greatly benefit the environment of
Gosford City, where there have already been significant infestations at Wyoming and
Everglades Lagoon, and chemical control is the only current control method.
Biodiversity - Technical Report Page 68