11. Van Dykes Property - Port Franklin

This information has been developed from the publication:

Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance in Central Gippsland (1981) by Neville Rosengren, M.S McRae-Williams and S.M Kraemers

Geological heritage sites, including sites of geomorphological interest and volcanic heritage sites, are under regular revision by the Geological Society of Australia, especially in the assessment of significance and values. Reference should be made to the most recent reports. Reference should be made to the most recent reports. See the Earth Science Heritage (external link) section of the Geological Society of Australia website for details of geological heritage reports, and a bibliography.

Location:	368170. One kilometre south-west of Port Franklin.	Site 8120-11
Access:	Port Franklin.
Ownership:	Private land and Crown Land.
Geology/Geomorphology:	Spartina townsendii is spreading rapidly across inter-tidal flats on the western side of the Franklin River. As a result, the area of inter-tidal flay is diminishing and the area is being replaced by a grassy terrace traversed by tidal creeks.
Significance:	State. This is one of the most vigorous growth sites of rice-grass on the Victorian coast and clearly illustrates the geomorphological consequences that result from the introduction of this plant into Australian estuaries.
Management:	Because Spartina is an introduced plant, over time its growth patterns may cause extensive physiographic and ecological changes on inter-tidal flats. Although these physiographic changes are of considerable interest, the possibly damaging ecological effect (particularly on wading birds) should be the main consideration in developing management and possibly control measures on the area. Assessment of this should be made by specialists with appropriate botanical and zoological expertise.

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