Welcome to Rescue's Email Newsletter for April

Inside this issue: All of Rainforest Rescue's projects reviewed and profiled, Direct Giving Program, Rescuer profile

Something to smile about
By Julie Hinchliffe, guest editor

When there's so much still to be done for our rainforests, it's often hard to just stop and feel good about the difference we're making. This issue of Rainforest Rescue News highlights recent successes and where further efforts are being targeted.

As you sit down for a quiet read, you'll be swept off to the spectacular jungles of Ecuador, home to jaguars, hummingbirds and other amazing creatures - but also a place where the Ecuador 'Save a Hectare' project is beginning to make a difference. Thanks to those of you who have donated, an incredible fifty hectares of old growth rainforest has already been saved.

Your next stop is the Daintree in far north Queensland. Here, the lowland rainforests continue to be threatened by rural development - except of course for the six properties you've saved by donating to the 'Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever' project.

Soon after, we have you suspended in the rainforest canopy in a climbing harness, capturing insects and taking video footage of a mysterious tree. It's all in a day's work for the 'Research to the Rescue' scientists. As you'll discover, they've got some pretty exciting projects on the go and it's all thanks to community support.

From there, it's off to a farm with a difference on the outskirts of Byron Bay. ReGenesis and Rainforest Rescue are planting 12.5 hectares of rainforest over four years - that's more than 62,500 trees all up! A model for the future, ReGenesis Farm is just one of the many inspiring projects supported by Rainforest Rescue's 'Rainforest Restoration Fund'.

On top of that, there's 'Looking After Byron' - an innovative program that provides ways for the tourism industry and tourists to support the local environment.

And if all that isn't enough to get you smiling, check out what's happening in the precious Big Scrub remnants of northern New South Wales. It takes a determined bunch of people to tackle 150 invasive weed species but with support from the 'Big Scrub Restoration' project, things are starting to look up.

If you're keen to keep the Rainforest Rescue ball rolling, you might be interested in making an ongoing contribution. It's an easy, tax-deductible way to make rainforests a part of your life, with funds raised going toward rainforest property purchase and protection, research and restoration. Happy rescuing…


Ecuador "Save a Hectare"

Good news … Choco-Andean rainforests saved by the hectare!
By Kirstie Fisher, Rainforest Rescue Ecuador project officer

With fifty hectares saved since the launch of our 'Ecuador "Save a Hectare" project', we have good cause to celebrate. This new addition contributes to the creation of a vital corridor between the Andean cloud forests and the lowland forests of the Awa Ethnic Reserve in northwestern Ecuador (see map).

Ecuador supports an amazing 10 % of all known plant species even though it only covers 0.2% of the earth's surface. It's a global biodiversity hot spot, home to creatures like jaguars, bespectacled bears, ocelots and mountain tapirs. John Seed from Lismore's Rainforest Information Centre inspired Rainforest Rescue to get involved in the first place. "While we are best known for our local and national rainforest projects, we thought it was important to also get involved in this one", said Rainforest Rescue executive officer, Kelvin Davies.

Our project extends the inspiring work of Rainforest Concern, whose efforts in Ecuador from 1994 culminated in the purchase of 12,000 hectares of rainforest in 2002. Together, we are strategically purchasing and protecting vital areas of rainforest otherwise threatened by mining, logging and destructive and unsustainable agriculture. It's exciting, high-impact work, with every $200 raised saving one whole hectare.

Rainforest Rescue and our Byron Bay supporters recently got together to celebrate the successful start to the project. South American musicians provided the entertainment while the photographs of Murray Cooper showcased the splendours of the Choco-Andean rainforests through his fascinating collection of rainforest images.

Information on how the land is being purchased, protected and managed as well as how the Ecuadorian people are involved is available at www.rainforestrescue.org.au and in the 'Ecuador "Save a Hectare" Special Edition' hardcopy newsletter (request a copy in the post).

Jaguars, ocelots, mountain tapirs and countless other precious creatures call these forests home.

As well as saving 20,000 hectares of rainforest, this international project will protect rainforest linkages between the largest reserves in northwestern Ecuador.

Help "Save a Hectare" Please make a donation at www.rainforestrescue.org.au "Every $200 raised will save a whole hectare"

Other ways to help - Our special Ecuador "Save a Hectare" gift cards feature details of the rainforest you have saved on behalf of friends and loved ones. Why not organise a fundraising activity with your workplace, school or community group? Or become a media helper using one of our Ecuador stories? We have lots of ideas so please feel free to get in touch.

Thanks: Saving hectares with a donation are TP Health, Australian Nature Life, Red Rose Reality, The Beach Hotel, Byron Bay English Language School and The Buddha Bar along with many individual supporters.


Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever

Daintree buy back continues

Our 'Daintree Buy Back and Protect Forever' project still needs your support. As many of you will know, the Daintree has been the focus of one of Australia's longest running conservation struggles. Many people assumed the creation of the Daintree National Park and World Heritage Listing in 1988 would secure the unique environment of the Daintree. Two thirds of the tropical rainforest of the coastal lowlands, however, were excluded from protection. At the same time, the state government of the day approved a large rural residential subdivision in the heart of the Daintree lowlands. Today, the only way to adequately secure this freehold land is to compensate landowners. But the good news is many landowners are willing to sell.

Together with our partners, the Daintree Rainforest Foundation, we have already managed to buy back six rainforest properties. The purchased properties are now protected in perpetuity in the newly created Baralba Nature Reserve. Recently, following this community leadership, local, state and federal governments have begun committing funds to buying back rainforest. It's estimated, however, that 200 properties will remain unprotected once their funds are exhausted. A moratorium on building approvals put in place by the Douglas Shire Council expires in June 2005. After this date, landowners who have not been compensated will resume the right to proceed with development. For so many reasons, it is vital that Rainforest Rescue's buy back effort continues.

Some Daintree facts

vital habitat for primitive Musky Rat-kangaroo, rare Bennett's Tree Kangaroo and a myriad of smaller creatures little known to science Six properties have been saved so far thanks to the generosity of Australians and people from around the world, this community effort has been achieved without government assistance.

Help the Daintree! Please make a tax-deductible donation at www.rainforestrescue.org.au. Each $20 will save ten square metres.

Other ways to help - Our special Daintree gift cards feature details of the rainforest you have saved on behalf of friends and loved ones. Visit www.rainforestrescue.org.au and email Dr David Suzuki's message to a friend.


Research to the Rescue

With the support of the community, we activate vital research for Australia's rainforests.

Rainforest Rescue's 'Research to the Rescue' program helps to conserve threatened species and rainforest communities by linking research scientists with important projects. We've enjoyed excellent results since the program's establishment in 2003.

Our Nightcap Oak project, for example, is delving into the secrets of a species of rainforest tree discovered by ecologist Rob Kooyman in 2000. Imagine being suspended in the rainforest canopy in a climbing harness (both day and night), with insect capture nets and capture jars, while simultaneously taking video footage of insect activity on flowers - that's just a taste of the fieldwork to date! In carrying out preliminary pollination biology studies, Rob has joined forces with Dr. Peter Weston (Sydney Royal Botanical Gardens), and Associate Professor Peter Bernhardt (St.Louis University). Already, at least one insect species new to science has been discovered on the flowers. This work will complement the genetic and ecological studies and is critical given that only one mature population of 90 individual trees is thought to remain.

(Right) Seed traps could yield some answers

(Left) Juvenile leaves of a prehistoric species

Rainforest Rescue supporters will also be pleased to hear of other important milestones. Maina Kariuki completed his write up and presentation of his PhD dissertation on the integration of ecological parameters into rainforest 'growth and yield' modeling to achieve sustainable forestry management. This project included the updating and reactivation of long-term permanent rainforest research plots (up to 47 years) in northeastern New South Wales. Other projects include a study of the tropical rainforest family Elaeocarpaceae. Fruit and seed production are being examined as well as frugivory and dispersal, genetics, ecology, and population biology.

The researchers are grateful to the Rainforest Rescue donors, and for the opportunities their generosity provides for highly strategic research. You can look forward to hearing about many more exciting outcomes from these projects in coming months.

Help! You can make a tax-deductible donation to this important project. Share information on the project available from our web site www.rainforestrescue.org.au

Thanks! Our very special thanks to Andrew Hall and Tree Friends and also to Elaine Seiler and the International Humanities Centre.


Growing the ReGenesis way

Demonstrations of sustainability don't come much better than this Byron Bay beauty.

If you have an interest in sustainability, chances are, you've caught wind of the 'triple bottom line' debate. 'Triple bottom line' is all about simultaneously pursuing environmental, social and economic outcomes; a promising new approach that could safeguard biodiversity, revitalise rural Australia, and create a more ethical and enduring economy.

In northern New South Wales, a team of Byron Bay farming entrepreneurs is already walking the talk. Through its projects, ReGenesis Pty Ltd looks to deliver short, mid and long-term revenue to investors and landowners: "Long-term returns will come from rainforest cabinet timbers, mid-term returns from things like citrus, polyculture and bushfoods and short-term returns from more intensive horticulture and in some cases tourism, education or village development," said co-manager Danielle Leonard.



As well as striving for commercial viability, ReGenesis emphasises sustainable models of integrated agriculture and development that enhance the local environment, repair damaged land and conserve or restore rainforest habitat. "We chose this area over places like Costa Rica, California and Portugal because we felt the Byron area had the people power, the biodiversity, the agricultural potential, the political stability and the inclination to become a model for green living." Danielle believes future markets will emerge that value bio-diversity and rainforest habitat, but in the meantime innovative collaboration may be needed between industry and non-profit organisations like Rainforest Rescue.

At ReGenesis Farm, ReGenesis and Rainforest Rescue are collaborating on a significant regeneration project that will establish 12.5 hectares of rainforest over four years involving the planting of 62,500 trees and other rainforest plants. "In teaming up with Rainforest Rescue, we hope to provide incentives for 'rainforest friendly' land management. Agriculture and development have had the largest impact on rainforests - we are keen to undo some of the damage by collaborating with people who understand the needs of the local species and ecosystems," said Danielle.

ReGenesis is an organic company with a sustainable vision. Together we're planting 62,500 trees and other rainforest plants!

To find out more about ReGenesis Farm phone (02) 6684 8162 or visit www.regenesis.com.au


Big Scrub Restoration Project

Saving the Big Scrub

Weeds are the biggest issue for the survival of the Big Scrub's rainforest remnants. Right now, there are 150 different species of them invading and degrading the rainforest.

It's amazing to think that at 75,000 hectares, the Big Scrub in northern New South Wales was once one of the largest subtropical rainforests in the world. But while only a tiny fraction remains today, these small surviving pockets contain more plant and animal species than any other ecosystem in the state. Amongst them are 50 species of threatened plants and animals including the Eastern Forest Dragon, Wompoo Fruit Dove and the Grey-headed Flying-fox.

A decade ago the future of the Big Scrub looked grim. Weeds were invading and in many cases dominating the remnants and the ecosystem faced total collapse. The war on weeds began in 1997 when our project partner Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group established the 'Big Scrub Rainforest Restoration' Project This award-winning project recognises that the weeds problem is too complex to be tackled by volunteers alone.

With the help of our supporters, Rainforest Rescue has now put more than $40,000 into employing professional rainforest regenerators. These professionals are helping win the war on weeds in 130 ha of rainforest in 35 Big Scrub remnants. With your continued support, all of these remnants of a wonderful rainforest will be restored to good condition and maintained for future generations to enjoy their magnificent biodiversity.

Another outcome of the project has been our input into Big Scrub Rainforest Day, which has inspired and educated thousands of landholders and volunteers to join the war on weeds and plant trees since 1999. Rainforest Rescue is also helping the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group to republish its acclaimed Rainforest Restoration and Rainforest Weed Control Manuals. (Available soon from our online store).

Help! You can make a tax-deductible donation to this important project. Other ways to help - share information on the project available from our web site www.rainforestrescue.org.au, join our Big Scrub Rainforest Day Organising Committee, volunteer on the day, or just come along to the event on Sunday 4th September 2005.


Looking after Byron

Tourism caring for the local environment

'Looking after Byron' is an innovative Rainforest Rescue program that provides ways for tourism to care for the resources on which its industry and the visitor experience depends.

Located in northern New South Wales, the small town of Byron Bay (15,000 people) attracts over 1.7 million visitors a year to the beautiful natural environment of its township and surrounding hinterland region. 'Looking after Byron' allows businesses and tourists to create a positive legacy for a region and environment they love.

Extensive tracts of rainforest once covered northern New South Wales east of the Great Dividing Range - from the highlands down to the sea. Remnants of the many different rainforest types still occur in the area including cool and warm temperate rainforest, variations of subtropical rainforests including lowland rainforest, littoral or coastal rainforest, and dry rainforest. While some of these rainforests have been reduced to less than 1% of their former range, a small army of community volunteers dedicate large parts of their lives to their restoration and maintenance. Removing masses of weeds, planting trees, and building fences to manage stock and human visitors are just a few of their many activities. Through its 'Looking after Byron' fund, Rainforest Rescue supports these community groups. Those assisted so far include the Green Clean Awareness Team in Byron Bay, the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group and the Brunswick Valley Landcare Group.

Help! - Make a tax-deductible donation to this important project by filling in the a donation form.

Other ways to help: When visiting Byron Bay, please support our supporters: Mountain Bike Tours, Amazing Views Green Garage and Five Star Supermarket, Earth Car Rental, Green Mango, Blue Fig Distributors, Byron Style Accommodation and others listed at www.lookingafterbyron.org.au


Donations made easy and effective.

Why not make saving rainforest part of your life? The easiest and most effective way is through a regular ongoing contribution from your credit card or direct debit from your account. You can commit as little as $5 a month or why not $1 a day, which will make an even bigger difference.

It's the most cost efficient and effective way of supporting Rainforest Rescue. While you are spreading your donation over the 12 months you can also look forward to receiving a receipt for tax-deductibility at the end of the financial year. Making a regular donation reduces the use of paper and its cost efficiency ensures the maximum amount of your donation reaches its target.

You can commit to a regular donation by completing the Direct Giving Program form. Or contact us on (02) 6629 1395 or email info@rainforestrescue.org.au and we can send you one.


Rescuer profile

Kelvin Davies - Executive Officer, Rainforest Rescue

Creative, focussed and passionate are words that come to mind when you talk to Kelvin Davies. You'd think that with over fifteen of conservation work and volunteering experience behind him he'd be ready for a break - but oh no, not this rainforest rescuer. With so many ideas and initiatives on the go, it's just as well Kelvin has the energy and commitment to match.

A typical day as executive officer involves lots of communication - talking to people over the phone, in meetings, by email and on the web. Then there's the 'doing' - the coordinating and motivating that makes the amazing projects described in this newsletter happen - which includes inspiring a talented team of helpers and volunteers. But despite the demands, Kelvin wouldn't have it any other way. "At the end of each day we have a little quiet celebration in knowing that through our supporters a little more rainforest has been restored or protected." Ask him what it is he enjoys most about his job and he has no hesitation in answering. "Providing opportunities for people. The reason we started Rainforest Rescue was to provide opportunities for people to make contributions to rainforest conservation." And what is it he loves most about rainforests? "Rainforests are the generator of diversity. To look into the rainforest is to see the genesis of most other living things on the planet including humans. The evolutionary process leading to this current point in time is ancient and to me is most sacred."

Future issues of this newsletter will also feature 'Rescuer Profiles'. Get to know some of the staff, volunteers and supporters who help to make Rainforest Rescue tick.


Rainforest Rescue Management

The Team
Dr Tony Parkes - Chairman
Kathryn Biggs - Director
Dr Julia Playford - Director/Chair Environmental Science Committee
Kelvin Davies - Director/Executive Officer
Gary Varga - Treasurer
Peter Hughes - Accountant
Kirstie Fisher - DGP Facilitator/Ecuador "Save a Hectare" Project Officer
Josephine Kelly - 'Looking after Byron' Project Officer
Tim Low - Patron


Help!

Rainforest Rescue projects are community funded. As we don't receive government funding we rely on your support. All donations to Rainforest Rescue are tax-deductible.


Gift Cards

Ideal for all occasions, Rainforest Rescue's Daintree and Ecuador gift cards indicate how much rainforest you have saved on behalf of your friends or loved ones. For example - Dear Mary, Bob has brought you a gift of 50 sq metres of the Daintree to be saved on your behalf.


Thanks

Thank you for five years of support - TP Health, The Beach Hotel, Southern Cross Credit Union.

And to our other major supporters - Geolink, EnviTE, Andrew Hall and Tree Friends, Elaine Seiler and the International Humanities Centre, Byron-bay.com, the Australian Macadamia Society.


Pass it on

We hope you have enjoyed this edition of Rainforest Rescue News. We rely on donations from the community to save our rainforests. Please help us by forwarding on this newsletter to other interested people, family and friends.


About us

Rainforest Rescue is a not for profit organisation committed to saving our rainforests for current and future generations. We achieve this by providing opportunities for individuals, families, community groups, businesses and philanthropists to support our projects involving rainforest property purchase and protection, research and restoration.


Contact us

Tel: (02) 6629 1395

Fax: (02) 6697 1649

Email: info@rainforestrescue.org.au

Postal Addresses

PO Box 1511 Toowong Queensland 4066, Australia

PO Box 1607 Byron Bay 2481, Australia

This edition of Rainforest Rescue News is edited by Julie Hinchliffe.

Visit the Rainforest Rescue Website at www.rainforestrescue.org.au