Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Garden news
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Norfolk Island holds important biological significance as its flora and fauna are derived from the chance dispersal of plants and animals over vast distances of ocean. Many species have evolved into unique, or endemic, forms due to isolation from other populations and having different evolutionary pressures.
New track opening
Under a clear blue sky the Norfolk Island Botanic Garden's refurbished tracks were officially opened by Peter Cochrane (Director of National Parks) and Vicky Jack (Minister for Education) yesterday.
The refurbished tracks form part of a major infrastructure upgrade in the garden, and are the culmination of ten months hard work by a dedicated task force.
Peter and Vicky officially cut the ribbon. Deserved mention was made of Brandt McRitchie and the Crosscut Construction team, for the quality of their construction work which greatly enhances a site of natural and educational values on Norfolk Island's rainforest plants.
Ms Jack emphasised that the garden has walks for all ages and abilities, and continues to surprise.
Download the new walking tracks brochure here (PDF 900 KB)
Park Manager Coral Rowston at the plant give-away table with Island residents
Threatened Species Day on Norfolk
September 2009
The Norfolk Island park staff had a whole week focusing on threatened species - not just the one national day.
The week began with a give-away of 320 native plants from the park nursery, now in new homes across the island.
Park rangers talked endangered native species with year five and six students, who then planted 90 trees. Ranger Joel Christian showed local tour organisers and visitor information staff around the botanic garden and ranger Ron Ward and Norfolk Island Administration's Alan McNeil spent a day planting and tending one of the island's most critically endangered species, the Norfolk Island euphorbia.
School students help out on Norfolk
August 2009
Fifty students over two afternoons cleared a huge area of weed and replaced it with around 80 Norfolk Island endemic plants.
The grade 5 and 6 students of Norfolk Island Central School have been learning about Australia's national parks and there is nothing like some hands-on experience to make the learning more fun.
Each day started with park manage Coral Rowston and ranger Joel Christian talking about the national park and park management work. The students learned about one of the worst weeds in the botanic garden - morning glory - an aggressive, destructive vine which is smothering the native plants.
They then set about clearing a particularly dense infestation with amazing enthusiasm and skill. Then it was time to plant. Over eighty trees went into the ground. The transformation of the area was spectacular to see - as was the children's laughter and enjoyment.
Two weeks on, after some great rain, every plant is alive and thriving - the area is looking great. Everyone had a fantastic time, with buses of children smiling, waving and saying how much they enjoyed it. They will be back next term to continue learning about their island's natural environment and to make their mark in the park.
Endangered parrots set free
8 May 2009
Two love-struck green parrots are soon to be united when Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Garden releases its last captive green parrots into the wild.
The release marks the end of the green parrot captive breeding program, and opens the door to the courtship of 'Juliet', a captive female parrot, and 'Romeo', a wild male parrot.
Endangered parrots set free press release