Spinifex translocationThe Harvey Shire recently received funding from a successful Coastwest grant application and Cape Life will be assisting them to implement Stage 2 of their Myalup Dune Restoration Project. This is a community coastcare project and will involve volunteers from Parkfield Primary School, Myalup Bird Observers and Myalup Bushfire Brigade.

One of our tasks will be to collect and trans-locate thousands of Spinifex hirsutus cutting to help stabilise the primary dune system. Hairy Spinifex as it is otherwise known is a great local native plant that establishes well from cuttings, is extremely hardy and thrives in mobile sands. It also helps to out-compete marram grass,  an invasive weed introduced after cyclone Alby to stabilise and rebuild dunes. Unfortunately it quickly took over large swathes of primary dune systems and in some areas ‘over stabilised’ them and changed the dynamic nature of seasonal rivermouths. Reintroducing Spinifex hirsutus will help restore and stabilise the dune’s ecosystem.