The Wahminda Grove bushcare group is rehabilitating upper reaches of Kedron Brook where it runs through Samford Conservation Park. The site is off Samford Rd, just west of Ferny Grove near scouts and guides halls in Wahminda Park UBD map 117 F17, close to several popular recreational areas. Maureen Lawrence Park is just west of site, and Lomandra Gully and Ironbark Gully picnic areas are on opposite side of Samford Road.
This work area is closest to source of Kedron Brook. The creek at this location forms part of boundary between Brisbane City and Moreton Bay region. The name of group reflects both regions “Wahminda” taken from Wahminda Park in Moreton Bay region and “Grove” from Ferny Grove in Brisbane. Bushland rehabilitation has been undertaken on both sides of waterway.
At beginning of 2011, leadership was passed onto Lyn and Ann Ellerman.
A significant variety of native vegetation still exists in this part of Kedron Brook, albeit infested by weeds in many places. Large lizards such as Eastern Water Dragons and Lace Monitors occur, Green Tree Snakes and Carpet Pythons seen quite regularly. Koalas still exist in this area.
Challenges
Large areas of site were once dominated by Lantana, numerous other weeds such as Ochna, Guinea Grass, Cobblers’ Pegs, Easter Cassia, Wild Tobacco, Asparagus Fern, Blue Billy Goat Weed, Mistflower and Mother of Millions also in abundance. Aggressive, invasive vines such as Glycine, Madeira and Velcro Vine are prevalent in area.
Escaped garden plants have appeared as a result of irresponsible dumping of garden waste.
Over years weather has provided many challenges, particularly long periods of drought followed more recently by violent storms and floods which caused major damage to trees and severe bank erosion. During times of heavy rainfall, erosion problems are amplified by stormwater feeding into Kedron Brook from residential areas on Ferny Grove side of waterway.
Despite these difficulties and setbacks, group has seen major achievements transforming significant sections of site back to natural bushland.
Bushcare Working Bees
Primary activities involve removing weeds and rubbish (including car bodies) and planting native species.
Lantana is recycled as mulch and wigwam structures which provide hideaways for small birds.
Stabilisation of creek bank is a priority, and large trees along hundreds of native Matrush have been planted along creek bank to reduce erosion.
Over years creek crossing has been cleared. A pathway lined Matrush is now part of a popular walkway through area for recreational use.
Thousands of native plants have been planted, many propagated by members of bushcare group, butterfly host plants and other wildlife-friendly plants a priority.
Contact
Phone Lyn or Ann Ellerman on 07 3351 1805 or email ellerman2@bigpond.com