Achievements in Habitat Enhancement and Conservation

Those of you who have been members for some time may recall that the group were successful in receiving $75000 through the Friends of Parks Partnership Grants Project in 2022. Over the past three years, our collaborative efforts with government bodies, landcare groups, private landholders, contractors, and volunteers have resulted in significant improvements to habitat quality across the Central Hills sub-region. Together we’ve supported threatened species, restored ecosystems, and bolstered environmental resilience. Below is a summary of the priority weed targetted and our key achievements.

The Threat of Muraltia Furze (Muraltia heisteria)

To understand the importance of our project, it’s essential to recognize the significance of Muraltia heisteria, commonly known as Furze Muraltia. This emerging environmental weed is capable of invading intact bushland, displacing native vegetation, and threatening the integrity of natural ecosystems.

The weed has become a high priority threat in the region due to its invasiveness and its prolific production of long-lived seeds. Alarmingly, it has already invaded some of the most intact and remote sclerophyllous sites in the Adelaide Hills—areas where more common woody weeds have yet to emerge. This makes it an especially dangerous threat to the region’s steep, heathy ecosystems.

With 85 known infestations spanning across Morialta, Giles, and Horsnell Gully Conservation Parks, as well as private lands in between, Muraltia represents the highest priority weed identified in several vegetation management plans. Its presence in these habitats has become increasingly difficult to control, as the plant’s similarities to local native species make it tricky for volunteers to identify unless it is flowering. Additionally, many of its populations are located in steep, rocky terrain, making manual control challenging.

Important Reminder: Muraltia Furze is currently in flower, making it the best time to locate and treat the plant. If you find or treat any Muraltia plants, please inform the group secretary secretary.fobhm@gmail.com m. 041 849 5834 so we can track progress and ensure effective management.

Habitat Enhancements and Community Collaboration

A major focus of the project was improving habitats for threatened species across key conservation areas. Volunteers worked tirelessly to control invasive weeds in Morialta, Giles, and Horsnell Gully Conservation Parks. In addition, the Morialta Biolink Landcare Group (MBL) and the Fourth Creek Catchment Group (4CCG) worked on private properties, helping local landholders enhance biodiversity. Roadside habitat improvements supported by the Adelaide Hills Council also contributed to the region’s biodiversity.

Expanded Woody Weed Control

Efforts to control woody weeds, particularly in areas crucial for the endangered Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, have been expanded. Through donations and support from the Friends of Black Hill and Morialta (FOBHM), volunteers helped clear habitats in Morialta and Horsnell Gully Conservation Parks, benefiting several threatened species.

Further Community Engagement and Awareness

Our success is deeply rooted in community involvement. Through park events led by FOBHM, collaboration with the Climbing Club of South Australia, and partnerships with Trail Running SA, we’ve raised awareness about habitat conservation. The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board (HFLB) also facilitated public engagement and supported private landholders to sustain ongoing efforts.

Ongoing Weed Management and Monitoring

The ongoing containment of Muraltia has been one of the project's most significant achievements. Consistent treatment of all known infestations has limited the spread of the plant, particularly in the Lower Torrens complex, which has been protected from further encroachment. Detailed monitoring and high-resolution GPS data have shown a marked decline in Muraltia populations, particularly in areas previously affected by post-fire germination.

Specialized Habitat Projects

Targeted projects have been key to protecting habitat corridors for endangered species. For example, Trail Running SA’s Trail Care Team restored the Colonial Track in Morialta, benefiting the Southern Brown Bandicoot and Chestnut-rumped Heathwren. The Crag Care Project focused on protecting the Cunningham Skink habitat. Additionally, the focused removal of Muraltia in Giles Conservation Park has reduced competition for the critically endangered Mount Lofty Speedwell.

Looking Forward

These achievements provide a strong foundation for ongoing conservation efforts. The data gathered, coupled with continued community engagement, will guide future work and ensure the long-term health of the region’s habitats and species.

Thank you to all volunteers, landholders, and partners who made this project possible. Your commitment to the environment ensures a brighter future for the flora and fauna of the Central Hills