by Wayne Cameron
Minnippi Parklands is a key destination for nature-based recreation and community use. For many years, B4C has worked with Brisbane City Council across several locations within the parklands to improve ecological health, habitat values and overall public amenity.
We currently maintain five active HRAP sites. None of these receive Council funding. However, a grant from Steve Minnikin MP (Chatsworth) enables our teams to support volunteers in caring for these important areas.
Key Learnings
- Aquatic birds require open, weed-free access to the lake.
We have observed that birds prefer areas that are not choked by Paragrass or other invasive species. Clear access allows them to enter the water easily and provides space for refuge and resting. - Some species will modify revegetation to maintain sightlines.
Waterbirds have a habit of flattening or removing plants to create visibility. Lomandra, Cyperus and Carex have been repeatedly damaged. In contrast, Ficinia, Juncus and Isolepis species have been well tolerated along the lake edge. This has helped guide our future planting choices. - Paragrass outcompetes low-growing native sedges and grasses in sunny, moist areas.
Co existence is not realistic in these conditions. Two lower storey sites have been withdrawn from HRAP listing because Paragrass has become dominant. - Paragrass struggles in shaded areas.
Under canopy cover, species such as Dyschoriste, Singapore Daisy and several vine species tend to take over instead. These can be selectively managed with targeted herbicide applications. Glyphosate is not used. - Commelina plantings have been a long-term success.
Brisbane City Council originally requested Commelina for wetland conditions beneath Casuarina glauca on the lake edge. These plantings are now completely dominant with very few weeds present, which represents a strong ecological outcome. - Canopy establishment is vital for long-term weed suppression.
Once mature, canopy trees eventually shade out exotic grasses. Until they reach adequate height, however, lower storey species remain vulnerable to aggressive weeds such as Paragrass and Guinea Grass.
