Dr Anita Chalmers
Lecturer
School of Environmental and Life Sciences (Environmental Science and Management)
- Email:anita.chalmers@newcastle.edu.au
- Phone:(02) 4349 4462
Career Summary
Biography
Dr Anita Chalmers is a plant ecologist/botanist within the School of Environmental and Life Sciences. Her research interests aims to improve the conservation and management of vegetation by understanding its response to natural and human disturbances. She has experience in a number of different terrestrial ecosystems (rainforest, grassland, heath, riverine and freshwater wetlands, saltmarsh) and has worked on many different threatened plant species and endangered communities.
Anita is currently working on the riparian and wetland vegetation of the Hunter, as well as vegetation on Gulungal Creek in the Northern Territory with ERISS. She is also collaborating with the Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH) on an endangered montane peatland & swamp and a threatened plant in Barrington Tops in NSW. We need to understand how groundwater dependent plant species respond to wet and dry climatic periods to help predict the impacts of climate change.
Anita also has expertise in the restoration ecology field. Two PhD students are currently working on mine restoration and saltmarsh restoration projects in the Hunter.
Please see "Projects" to get an idea of previous and current research projects and collaborators.
Research Expertise Summary
- Threatened wetland plant communities and threatened species - e.g. Endangered Ecological Communities (Saltmarsh, Swamp Sclerophyll Forest, Parramatta Red Gum woodland, Montane Peatland & Swamp), Prostanthera junonis, Darwinia glaucophylla, Grevillea shiressii and Tasmannia glaucifolia.
- Ecology of riparian & floodplain plants and their role in river recovery, i.e. interaction between riparian plants, floods, water-table, sediment deposition.
- Fire disturbance - e.g. effects in Wallum Heath (dominated by Banksia aemula), Flannel flower (Actinotis helianthi), Hanging Swamps.
- Plants as Habitat - resources plants provide to fauna (e.g. tree hollows, flowering)
Scientific/Community Service
Dr Anita Chalmers has contributed to environmental policy by being a member of the following committees:
- NSW Scientific Committee (Ministerial Appointment) (2014 – 2016)
- Expert panel - Australian Government Bioregional Assessment (Gloucester subregion - 2016)
- Central Coast Regional Vegetation Committee (Ministerial Appointment) (2001-2003)
Teaching Expertise
Dr Anita Chalmers has been teaching in the disciplines of Sustainable Resource Management and Environmental Science and Management since 1999. She has taught a wide range of courses resulting in a broad interdisciplinary understanding of ecosystems and their management. Her teaching expertise includes:
- Vegetation ecology, assessment, botany and plant identification (ENVS2005 & SRMT3010)
- Sustainable agriculture and forestry (SRMT3050)
- Land/vegetation degradation (ENVS2005 & SRMT3050)- including threatened plant species and communities
- Restoration ecology (SRMT3060)
- Freshwater ecosystems (SRMT2030)
- Environmental values and attitudes (SRMT2010)
University Service/Administration
- Course co-ordination - March 1999 - ongoing
- RHD Co-ordinator -Discipline Environmental Science & Management - July 2017 - 2019
- Honours Program Convenor - Discipline of Applied Science July 2006 - July 2010
- Member - Faculty Community & Marketing Working Group (2009-2012)
- Member - Faculty Student Recruitment Committee (2003 - 2004)
Collaborations (see "Projects" for further information)
- Conservation/vegetation managers - investigating ecology & management of threatened species.
- Fluvial geomorphologists - investigating the links between vegetation and river processes.
- Landcare/bushcare groups - improving on-ground outcomes for restoration projects.
- Biochemists - investigating the medicinal properties of plants.
Qualifications
- PhD, University of New England
- Bachelor of Science, University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Science (Honours), University of Newcastle
Keywords
- Flora
- conservation biology
- plant ecology
- restoration
- rivers
- threatened species
- wetlands
Fields of Research
| Code | Description | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 060204 | Freshwater Ecology | 25 |
| 060208 | Terrestrial Ecology | 25 |
| 050202 | Conservation and Biodiversity | 50 |
Professional Experience
UON Appointment
| Title | Organisation / Department |
|---|---|
| Lecturer | University of Newcastle School of Environmental and Life Sciences Australia |
Academic appointment
| Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
|---|---|---|
| 1/1/2001 - 1/12/2003 | Committee Member (NSW Ministerial Appointment) | Central Coast Regional Vegetation Committee Australia |
| 1/2/2014 - | Committee Member (Ministerial Appointment) | NSW Scientific Committee Australia |
Membership
| Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
|---|---|---|
| Member - Hunter/Central Coast Region National Parks and Wildlife Services Research Committee | Hunter/Central Coast Region National Parks and Wildlife Services Research Committee Australia |
|
| 1/1/2010 - | Member - Australian Ecological Society | Australian Ecological Society Australia |
Professional appointment
| Dates | Title | Organisation / Department |
|---|---|---|
| 1/3/1997 - 1/3/1999 | Project Manager/Research Assistant | John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle Newcastle Environmental Toxicology Research Unit Australia |
Publications
For publications that are currently unpublished or in-press, details are shown in italics.
Journal article (34 outputs)
| Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||||||||
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| 2020 |
Turner A, Bond DR, Vuong QV, Chalmers A, Beckett EL, Weidenhofer J, Scarlett CJ, 'Elaeocarpus reticulatus fruit extracts reduce viability and induce apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells in vitro', Molecular Biology Reports, 47 2073-2084 (2020) © 2020, Springer Nature B.V. Treatment options for pancreatic cancer (PC) are severely limited due to late diagnosis, early metastasis and the inadequacy of chemotherapy and radio... [more] © 2020, Springer Nature B.V. Treatment options for pancreatic cancer (PC) are severely limited due to late diagnosis, early metastasis and the inadequacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to combat the aggressive biology of the disease. In recent years, plant-derived bioactive compounds have emerged as a source of novel, anti-cancer agents. Used in traditional medicine worldwide, Elaeocarpus species have reported anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. This study aimed to isolate and identify potential anti-PC compounds in the fruit of Elaeocarpus reticulatus Sm. A 50% acetone crude extract significantly decreased the viability of four pancreatic cell lines (= 10 µg/mL for BxPC-3 cells) and induced apoptosis in BxPC-3 and HPDE cells. Analysis by HPLC identified the triterpenoid Cucurbitacin I as a likely component of the extract. Furthermore, treatment with Cucurbitacin I significantly reduced the viability of HPDE and BxPC-3 cells, with results comparable to the same concentration of gemcitabine. Interestingly, attempts to isolate bioactive compounds revealed that the crude extract was more effective at reducing PC-cell viability than the fractionated extracts. This study provides initial insight into the bioactive constituents of E. reticulatus fruits.
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| 2019 |
Hayward MW, Scanlon RJ, Callen A, Howell LG, Klop-Toker KL, Di Blanco Y, et al., 'Reintroducing rewilding to restoration Rejecting the search for novelty', Biological Conservation, 233 255-259 (2019) [C1] © 2019 Rewilding is emerging as a major issue in conservation. However, there are currently a dozen definitions of rewilding that include Pleistocene rewilding, island rewilding, ... [more] © 2019 Rewilding is emerging as a major issue in conservation. However, there are currently a dozen definitions of rewilding that include Pleistocene rewilding, island rewilding, trophic rewilding, functional rewilding and passive rewilding, and these remain fuzzy, lack clarity and, hence, hinder scientific discourse. Based on current definitions, it is unclear how the interventions described under the rewilding umbrella differ from those framed within the long-standing term ¿restoration¿. Even projects held up as iconic rewilding endeavours invariably began as restoration projects (e.g., Oostvaaderplassen; Pleistocene Park; the return of wolves to Yellowstone, etc.). Similarly, rewilding organisations (e.g., Rewilding Europe) typically began with a restoration focus. Scientific discourse requires precise language. The fuzziness of existing definitions of rewilding and lack of distinction from restoration practices means that scientific messages cannot be transferred accurately to a policy or practice framework. We suggest that the utility of ¿rewilding¿ as a term is obsolete, and hence recommend scientists and practitioners use ¿restoration¿ instead.
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| 2019 |
Hayward MW, Jachowski D, Bugir CK, Clulow J, Krishnamurthy R, Griffin AS, et al., 'The search for novelty continues for rewilding', BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION, 236 584-585 (2019)
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| 2018 |
Vuong QV, Hong NTP, Vu HT, Trung TD, Thanh VN, Chalmers AC, 'Fruit characteristics, phytochemical and antioxidant properties of blueberry ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)', HELIYON, 4 (2018) [C1]
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| 2018 |
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'An array of bioactive compounds from Australian eucalypts and their relevance in pancreatic cancer therapeutics', Pancreas, 47 690-707 (2018) [C1]
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| 2018 |
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Bond DR, Chalmers AC, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Eucalyptus microcorys leaf extract derived HPLC-fraction reduces the viability of MIA PaCa-2 cells by inducing apoptosis and arresting cell cycle', Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 105 449-460 (2018) [C1]
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| 2017 |
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Development of the ultrasonic conditions as an advanced technique for extraction of phenolic compounds from Eucalyptus robusta', SEPARATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 52 100-112 (2017) [C1]
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| 2017 |
Ngoc MQP, Chalmers AC, Vuong QV, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Characterising the Physical, Phytochemical and Antioxidant Properties of the Tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) Fruit', TECHNOLOGIES, 5 (2017) [C1]
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| 2017 |
Bhuyan DJ, Sakoff J, Bond DR, Predebon M, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, et al., 'In vitro anticancer properties of selected Eucalyptus species', IN VITRO CELLULAR & DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY-ANIMAL, 53 604-615 (2017) [C1]
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| 2017 |
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Bond DR, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Exploring the Least Studied Australian Eucalypt Genera: Corymbia and Angophora for Phytochemicals with Anticancer Activity against Pancreatic Malignancies', CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY, 14 (2017) [C1]
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| 2017 |
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Bowyer MC, van Altena IA, Scarlett CJ, 'Phytochemical, antibacterial and antifungal properties of an aqueous extract of Eucalyptus microcorys leaves', SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY, 112 180-185 (2017) [C1]
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| 2016 |
Tozer M, Chalmers AC, 'Hunter Valley Weeping Myall Woodland in the Sydney Basin Bioregion should remain listed as a Threatened Ecological Community until strong evidence emerges in support of delisting', Cunninghamia, 16 31-34 (2016) [C1]
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| 2016 |
Bhuyan D, Vuong QV, Chalmers A, van Altena I, Bowyer M, Scarlett C, 'Investigation of phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity of selected Eucalyptus species using conventional extraction', Chemical Papers, 70 567-575 (2016) [C1]
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| 2015 |
Vuong QV, Hirun S, Chuen TLK, Goldsmith CD, Munro B, Bowyer MC, et al., 'Physicochemical, antioxidant and anti-cancer activity of a Eucalyptus robusta (Sm.) leaf aqueous extract', INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS, 64 167-174 (2015) [C1]
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| 2015 |
Munro B, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Goldsmith CD, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Properties of Euphorbia tirucalli Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts.', Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 4 647-661 (2015) [C1]
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| 2015 |
Bhuyan DJ, Quan VV, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Microwave-assisted extraction of Eucalyptus robusta leaf for the optimal yield of total phenolic compounds', INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS, 69 290-299 (2015) [C1]
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| 2015 |
Chalmers AC, Bakewell G, Taggart A, 'Comparison of long-stem and standard tube-stock performance five years after planting in a rainforest edge on the Central Coast of NSW', Ecological Management and Restoration, 16 236-238 (2015) [C1]
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| 2015 |
Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Jyoti Bhuyan D, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Botanical, phytochemical, and anticancer properties of the eucalyptus species', Chemistry and Biodiversity, 12 907-924 (2015) [C1] Copyright © 2015 Verlag Helvetica Chimica Acta AG, Zürich. The genus Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae) is mainly native to Australia; however, some species are now distributed globally. Euca... [more] Copyright © 2015 Verlag Helvetica Chimica Acta AG, Zürich. The genus Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae) is mainly native to Australia; however, some species are now distributed globally. Eucalyptus has been used in indigenous Australian medicines for the treatment of a range of aliments including colds, flu, fever, muscular aches, sores, internal pains, and inflammation. Eucalyptus oils containing volatile compounds have been widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries for a multitude of purposes. In addition, Eucalyptus extracts containing nonvolatile compounds are also an important source of key bioactive compounds, and several studies have linked Eucalyptus extracts with anticancer properties. With the increasing research interest in Eucalyptus and its health properties, this review briefly outlines the botanical features of Eucalyptus, discusses its traditional use as medicine, and comprehensively reviews its phytochemical and anticancer properties and, finally, proposes trends for future studies.
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| 2014 |
Vuong QV, Hirun S, Chuen TLK, Goldsmith CD, Bowyer MC, Chalmers AC, et al., 'Physicochemical composition, antioxidant and anti-proliferative capacity of a lilly pilly (Syzygium paniculatum) extract', Journal of Herbal Medicine, 4 134-140 (2014) [C1] Lilly pilly (LP) fruit (Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn.) is widely grown in eastern Australia and has been used as food by indigenous Australians. However, there is limited informati... [more] Lilly pilly (LP) fruit (Syzygium paniculatum Gaertn.) is widely grown in eastern Australia and has been used as food by indigenous Australians. However, there is limited information on its bioactivity. This study investigated the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of the crude fruit extract, identified its bioactive compounds and also assessed its potential anti-proliferative effect on pancreatic cancer cells. Our data showed that the LP extract was water-soluble and possessed a total phenolic content of 96 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g, flavonoid levels of 52 mg catechin equivalents (CAE)/g, proanthocyanidin levels of 29 mg CAE/g. Several phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, catechin and epicatechin were identified in the LP extract with levels of 0.39, 2.35, 0.47 and 2.9 mg/g, respectively. Results from six different antioxidant assays revealed that the LP extract pocessed potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging capacity. Although antioxidant capacity of the extract was lower than that of vitamin E, vitamin C and BHT, it could be significantly improved if the extract was to be further purified. We also showed that the LP extract (200 µg/mL) significantly reduced the viability of MiaPaCa-2 and ASPC-1 pancreatic cancer cells to levels comparable to that of the chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine. For this reason lilly pilly should be further investigated for its health promoting and potential anti-cancer benefits, particularly for pancreatic cancer. © 2014 Elsevier GmbH.
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| 2014 | Booyens C, Chalmers AC, Beckers D, 'The effect of disturbance regime on Darwinia glaucophylla (Myrtaceae) and its habitat.', Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 136 231-244 (2014) [C1] | ||||||||||
| 2013 |
Erskine F, Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, 'Survival of Casuarina cunninghamiana on a recovering sand-bed stream in the Wollombi Valley of coastal New South Wales', Cunninghamia, 13 295-304 (2013) [C1]
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| 2012 |
Erskine WD, Keene A, Bush R, Cheetham M, Chalmers AC, 'Influence of riparian vegetation on channel widening and subsequent contraction on a sand-bed stream since European settlement: Widden Brook, Australia', Geomorphology, 147-148 102-114 (2012) [C1]
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| 2012 |
Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, Keene AF, Bush RT, 'Relationship between vegetation, hydrology and fluvial landforms on an unregulated sand-bed stream in the Hunter Valley, Australia', Austral Ecology, 37 193-203 (2012) [C1]
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| 2012 |
Erskine WD, Saynor MJ, Chalmers AC, Riley SJ, 'Water, wind, wood, and trees: Interactions, spatial variations, temporal dynamics, and their potential role in river rehabilitation', Geographical Research, 50 60-74 (2012) [C1]
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| 2012 |
Payne R, Chalmers AC, Laxton J, 'Understanding the characteristics of a groundwater-dependent ecosystem: Eucalyptus parramattensis Woodland at Porters Creek Wetland, NSW', Cunninghamia, 12 191-211 (2012) [C1]
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| 2009 |
Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Keene A, Cheetham M, Bush R, 'Role of a rheophyte in bench development on a sand-bed river in southeast Australia', Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 34 941-953 (2009) [C1]
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| 2007 |
Todarello P, Chalmers AC, 'The characteristics of five species of hollow-bearing trees on the New South Wales Central Coast', Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 128 1-14 (2007) [C1]
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| 2007 |
Chalmers AC, Bakewell G, Taggart A, 'Improved growth and survival of deep-planted long-stem tube-stock within a rainforest edge on the Central Coast of New South Wales: Preliminary results', Ecological Management & Restoration, 8 151-154 (2007) [C1]
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| 2005 |
Chalmers AC, McIntyre S, Whalley RDB, Reid N, 'Grassland species response to soil disturbance and nutrient enrichment on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales', Australian Journal of Botany, 53 485-499 (2005) [C1]
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| 2003 |
Hensley MJ, Chalmers AC, Clover K, Gibson PG, Toneguzzi R, Lewis PR, 'Symptoms of Asthma: Comparison of a Parent-Completed Retrospective Questionnaire With a Prospective Daily Symptom Diary', Pediatric Pulmonology, 36 509-513 (2003) [C1]
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| 2001 |
Gibson PG, Simpson J, Chalmers AC, Toneguzzi R, Wark PA, Wilson AJ, Hensley MJ, 'Airway Eosinophilia is associated with Wheeze but is uncommon in Children with Persistent Cough and Frequent Chest Colds', American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 164 977-981 (2001) [C1]
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Conference (8 outputs)
| Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 |
Uddin MN, Momtaz S, Chalmers A, 'Proceedings of the 2019 International Conference on Climate Change, Disaster Management and Environmental Sustainability', Community perception of impacts of protected area governance on local livelihoods: a case study of the Lawachara National Park, Bangladesh, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan (2019)
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| 2015 |
Bond D, Turner A, Richmond R, Sadeqzadeh E, Vuong Q, Bhuyan D, et al., 'THE SEARCH FOR NOVEL TREATMENT AGENTS FOR PANCREATIC CANCER: TALES FROM THE LAND AND SEA', ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY (2015) [E3]
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| 2014 |
Sadeqzadeh E, Vuong QV, Goldsmith CD, Nguyen VT, Bhuyan DJ, Trung TD, et al., 'A NATURAL PRODUCT DRUG DISCOVERY PIPELINE FOR NOVEL PANCREATIC CANCER THERAPIES: A NEW CANCER RESEARCH HUB FOR THE HUNTER REGION OF NSW', ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY (2014) [E3]
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| 2010 |
Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Townley-Jones ME, 'The importance of sediment control for recovery of incised channels', Sediment Dynamics for a Changing Future, Warsaw, Poland (2010) [E1]
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| 2009 | Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, Keene A, Bush R, 'Flow regimes influencing riparian vegetation on an unregulated sand-bed stream in the Hunter Valley, NSW', H2009: Proceedings of H2009, the 32nd Hydrology and Water Resources Symposium, Newcastle, NSW (2009) [E1] | ||||||
| 2009 | Keene A, Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Bush R, Cheetham M, 'Riparian revegetation and creation of a pool-riffle sequence by river restoration works on the sand-bedded Widden Brook, Australia', The 7th International Symposium on Ecohydraulics: The International Conference of Science and Information Technologies for Sustainable Management of Aquatic Ecosystems CD-ROM, Concepcion, Chile (2009) [E1] | ||||||
| 2009 | Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, 'Natural river recovery from catastrophic channel changes by vegetation invasion of the sand-bedded Wollombi Brook, Australia', The 7th International Symposium on Ecohydraulics: The International Conference of Science and Information Technologies for Sustainable Management of Aquatic Ecosystems CD-ROM, Concepcion, Chile (2009) [E1] | ||||||
| 2006 | Chalmers AC, 'Trait differences between exotic and native species within a long-grazed temperate grassland on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales', Proceedings of the 15th Australian Weeds Conference, Adelaide, SA (2006) [E1] | ||||||
| Show 5 more conferences | |||||||
Grants and Funding
Summary
| Number of grants | 11 |
|---|---|
| Total funding | $159,525 |
Click on a grant title below to expand the full details for that specific grant.
20182 grants / $39,200
Nutrient Cycling in Restored Ecosystems$30,000
Funding body: Mt Owen Pty Limited
| Funding body | Mt Owen Pty Limited |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Carmen Castor, Doctor Anita Chalmers, Professor Megh Mallavarapu, Doctor Suresh Subashchandrabose, Mr Robert Scanlon |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2018 |
| Funding Finish | 2018 |
| GNo | G1800639 |
| Type Of Funding | C3111 - Aust For profit |
| Category | 3111 |
| UON | Y |
Identifying indicators of restoration success in saltmarshes$9,200
Funding body: Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG)
| Funding body | Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Associate Professor Troy Gaston, Doctor Anita Chalmers |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2018 |
| Funding Finish | 2019 |
| GNo | G1800844 |
| Type Of Funding | C3111 - Aust For profit |
| Category | 3111 |
| UON | Y |
20173 grants / $30,000
Nutrient Cycling in Restored Ecosystems$15,000
Funding body: Ravensworth Operations Pty Limited
| Funding body | Ravensworth Operations Pty Limited |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Carmen Castor, Doctor Anita Chalmers, Professor Megh Mallavarapu, Doctor Suresh Subashchandrabose, Mr Robert Scanlon |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2017 |
| Funding Finish | 2017 |
| GNo | G1701594 |
| Type Of Funding | C3111 - Aust For profit |
| Category | 3111 |
| UON | Y |
Identifying indicators of restoration success in saltmarshes$10,000
Funding body: NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries)
| Funding body | NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Associate Professor Troy Gaston, Doctor Anita Chalmers, Kylie Russell, Craig Copeland, Dr Matt Taylor |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2017 |
| Funding Finish | 2017 |
| GNo | G1701111 |
| Type Of Funding | C2220 - Aust StateTerritoryLocal - Other |
| Category | 2220 |
| UON | Y |
Nutrient Cycling in Restored Ecosystems$5,000
Funding body: Eastern Creek Operations Pty limited
| Funding body | Eastern Creek Operations Pty limited |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Carmen Castor, Doctor Anita Chalmers, Professor Megh Mallavarapu, Doctor Suresh Subashchandrabose, Mr Robert Scanlon |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2017 |
| Funding Finish | 2017 |
| GNo | G1701589 |
| Type Of Funding | C3111 - Aust For profit |
| Category | 3111 |
| UON | Y |
20151 grants / $49,128
Williams River Catchment Improvement Program$49,128
Funding body: Hunter Water Corporation
| Funding body | Hunter Water Corporation |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Associate Professor Troy Gaston, Conjoint Professor Natalie Moltschaniwskyj, Doctor Anita Chalmers, Debashish Mazumder |
| Scheme | Research Consultancy |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2015 |
| Funding Finish | 2015 |
| GNo | G1501235 |
| Type Of Funding | C2210 - Aust StateTerritoryLocal - Own Purpose |
| Category | 2210 |
| UON | Y |
20111 grants / $1,000
What factors influence the habitat, distribution and population structure of Grevillea shiressii Blakely (Proteaceae) a threatened species of the Central Coast of New South Wales?$1,000
Funding body: Australian Plants Society
| Funding body | Australian Plants Society |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Anita Chalmers, Ms Diane Warman |
| Scheme | Valette Williams Scholarship in Botany |
| Role | Lead |
| Funding Start | 2011 |
| Funding Finish | 2012 |
| GNo | G1200762 |
| Type Of Funding | Grant - Aust Non Government |
| Category | 3AFG |
| UON | Y |
20061 grants / $29,197
Equity Research Fellowship Semester 1, 2006$29,197
Funding body: University of Newcastle
| Funding body | University of Newcastle |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Anita Chalmers |
| Scheme | Equity Research Fellowship |
| Role | Lead |
| Funding Start | 2006 |
| Funding Finish | 2006 |
| GNo | G0185992 |
| Type Of Funding | Internal |
| Category | INTE |
| UON | Y |
20051 grants / $1,000
Hanging swamps of the Central Coast Plateau$1,000
Funding body: Central Coast Community Environment Network Inc.
| Funding body | Central Coast Community Environment Network Inc. |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Anita Chalmers |
| Scheme | Research Grant |
| Role | Lead |
| Funding Start | 2005 |
| Funding Finish | 2005 |
| GNo | G0185192 |
| Type Of Funding | Contract - Aust Non Government |
| Category | 3AFC |
| UON | Y |
20021 grants / $5,000
Factors influencing the population dynamics of Prostathera Junonis.$5,000
Funding body: Gosford City Council
| Funding body | Gosford City Council |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Ms Robin Stanger, Doctor Anita Chalmers |
| Scheme | Postgraduate Research Scholarship |
| Role | Investigator |
| Funding Start | 2002 |
| Funding Finish | 2002 |
| GNo | G0181648 |
| Type Of Funding | Other Public Sector - Local |
| Category | 2OPL |
| UON | Y |
20001 grants / $5,000
Disturbance and the Integrity of Vegetation Remnants along Streambanks: The Wingello Creek Pilot Study.$5,000
Funding body: University of Newcastle
| Funding body | University of Newcastle |
|---|---|
| Project Team | Doctor Anita Chalmers |
| Scheme | Early Career Researcher Grant |
| Role | Lead |
| Funding Start | 2000 |
| Funding Finish | 2000 |
| GNo | G0179322 |
| Type Of Funding | Internal |
| Category | INTE |
| UON | Y |
Research Supervision
Number of supervisions
Current Supervision
| Commenced | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | PhD | Examining the Myth of Fast-Forwarding | PhD (Environmental Sc), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
| 2017 | PhD | Evaluating Governance System of Climate Change Mitigation Projects in Bangladesh: A GO-NGO Perspective | PhD (Sustainable Res Mngt), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
| 2017 | PhD | Identifying Indicators of Restoration Success in Saltmarshes | PhD (Marine Science), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
| 2015 | PhD | Impact of Environmental Governance on Local Livelihoods in Forest Protected Areas of Bangladesh: A Study of Lawachara National Park | PhD (Sustainable Res Mngt), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
Past Supervision
| Year | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | PhD | Processes, Rates and Pathways to Recovering River Channel Functions Through Geomorphically Effective Floods: A Case Study of the Highly Regulated Snowy River Downstream of Jindabyne Dam, Australia | PhD (Sustainable Res Mngt), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
| 2011 | Masters | The Effect of Disturbance Regimes (Fire and Slashing) on Populations of Darwinia Glaucophylla on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia | M Philosophy (SustainResMngt), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
| 2011 | Masters | Attitudes, Values, and Knowledge Relating to Australian Native Wildlife | M Philosophy (Psychology), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
| 2006 | PhD | Response of Frog Populations to Habitat Attributes and Riparian Zone Rehabilitation Across an Urban-Rural Gradient in the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia | PhD (Sustainable Res Mngt), Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
Research Projects
Long-stem planting 2005 - 2010
In this project Anita collaborated with the Australian Plants Society (Central Coast Group) and Gosford City Council on a field experiment established in the edge of a rainforest at Katandra Reserve near Gosford. The experiment tested how useful the long-stem planting technique (developed by Bill Hicks for riparian zones) is for rainforest restoration. We found no significant benefit of the technique in this particular location, but we need further study in other locations and over a longer time-scale.
Publications
Chalmers AC, Bakewell G, Taggart A, 'Improved growth and survival of deep-planted long-stem tube-stock within a rainforest edge on the Central Coast of New South Wales: Preliminary results', Ecological Management & Restoration, 8 151-154 (2007) [C1]
Chalmers AC, Bakewell G, Taggart A, 'Comparison of long-stem and standard tube-stock performance five years after planting in a rainforest edge on the Central Coast of NSW', Ecological Management and Restoration, 16 236-238 (2015) [C1]
Bioactive plant compounds 2018
Anita's botanical skills and expertise helps Dr Quan Vuong's research identifying, extracting and purifying bioactive compounds for use in the pharmaceutical and neutraceutical industries and Associate Professor Chris Scarlett's research testing the efficacy of bioactive compounds as novel therapeutics in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Publications
Vuong QV, Hirun S, Chuen TLK, Goldsmith CD, Bowyer MC, Chalmers AC, et al., 'Physicochemical composition, antioxidant and anti-proliferative capacity of a lilly pilly (Syzygium paniculatum) extract', Journal of Herbal Medicine, 4 134-140 (2014) [C1]
Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Jyoti Bhuyan D, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Botanical, phytochemical, and anticancer properties of the eucalyptus species', Chemistry and Biodiversity, 12 907-924 (2015) [C1]
Bhuyan DJ, Quan VV, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Microwave-assisted extraction of Eucalyptus robusta leaf for the optimal yield of total phenolic compounds', INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS, 69 290-299 (2015) [C1]
Munro B, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Goldsmith CD, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Properties of Euphorbia tirucalli Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts.', Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 4 647-661 (2015) [C1]
Ngoc MQP, Chalmers AC, Vuong QV, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Characterising the Physical, Phytochemical and Antioxidant Properties of the Tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) Fruit', TECHNOLOGIES, 5 (2017) [C1]
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Development of the ultrasonic conditions as an advanced technique for extraction of phenolic compounds from Eucalyptus robusta', SEPARATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 52 100-112 (2017) [C1]
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Bond DR, Chalmers AC, van Altena IA, Bowyer MC, Scarlett CJ, 'Exploring the Least Studied Australian Eucalypt Genera: Corymbia and Angophora for Phytochemicals with Anticancer Activity against Pancreatic Malignancies', CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY, 14 (2017) [C1]
Bhuyan DJ, Sakoff J, Bond DR, Predebon M, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, et al., 'In vitro anticancer properties of selected Eucalyptus species', IN VITRO CELLULAR & DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY-ANIMAL, 53 604-615 (2017) [C1]
Bhuyan DJ, Vuong QV, Chalmers AC, Bowyer MC, van Altena IA, Scarlett CJ, 'Phytochemical, antibacterial and antifungal properties of an aqueous extract of Eucalyptus microcorys leaves', SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY, 112 180-185 (2017) [C1]
Plant Conservation Projects 2002 - 2019
Anita has supervised numerous Honours & RHD research projects that will assist government agencies and landowners to manage endangered ecological communities, threatened plant species and fauna that depend on plant resources such as tree hollows. This type of ecological research benefiting the whole of society by reducing the risks in environmental decision-making.
| Year | Research Topic | Theme | End-user benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Response of a Eucalyptus robusta (Swamp Mahogany) forest community to an environmental gradient at Porter’s Creek wetland. | Endangered Ecological Community | Council Reserve management, environmental decision making |
| 2002 | Factors influencing the population dynamics of the endangered plant: Prostanthera junonis. | Threatened Species | National Park management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2004 | Response of Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flower) populations to fire and soil type. | Fire Ecology | National Park management |
| 2004 | Number and types of cavities in eucalypt species on the Central Coast of NSW. | Fauna Conservation | National Park management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2004 | Effect of fire frequency on the Wallum heath vegetation communities of Bouddi National Park. | Fire Ecology | National Park management |
| 2005 | Plant diversity in the rocky Hawkesbury sandstone landscapes of Brisbane Water National Park | Fire Ecology | National Park management |
| 2006 | Defining Hanging Swamps on the Somersby Plateau, NSW. An examination of floristics, structure and influence of fire. | Endangered Ecological Community | Landowners & National Parks - wetland management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2006 | The effect of fragment size and disturbance on population structure and health of Eucalyptus robusta (Swamp Mahogany) within the Lower Dora Creek Catchment. | Endangered Ecological Community | Council - environmental decision making Landowners - wetland management |
| 2008 | The effects of fire frequency on tree hollow resources within coastal woodlands on the Central Coast of NSW | Fauna Conservation | National Park management |
| 2010 | The effect of disturbance regimes (fire and slashing) on populations of Darwinia glaucophylla on the Central Coast of NSW | Threatened Species | National Park management & environmental decision making |
| 2011 | The efficacy of different sampling methods in saltmarsh vegetation within the Brisbane Water estuary on the Central Coast of NSW | Endangered Ecological Community | National Park management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2011 | The regeneration of Casuarina cunninghamiana: a major riparian species on sand bed streams | River Ecology | Landowners - wetland management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2012 | Distribution, habitat and population structure of the rare Grevillea shiressii in relation to flooding and fire disturbance. | Threatened Species | National Park management Landowners - wetland management |
| 2018 | Tree hollows and arboreal marsupial food plants within floodplain and footslope communities in the Central Coast of NSW | Fauna Conservation | National Park management Council - environmental decision making |
| 2019 | Environmental factors affecting the distribution of threatened shrub Tasmannia glaucifolia (Fragrant Pepperbush) in the Barrington Tops National Park. | Threatened Species | National Park management |
Publications
Todarello P, Chalmers AC, 'The characteristics of five species of hollow-bearing trees on the New South Wales Central Coast', Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 128 1-14 (2007) [C1]
Erskine F, Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, 'Survival of Casuarina cunninghamiana on a recovering sand-bed stream in the Wollombi Valley of coastal New South Wales', Cunninghamia, 13 295-304 (2013) [C1]
Booyens C, Chalmers AC, Beckers D, 'The effect of disturbance regime on Darwinia glaucophylla (Myrtaceae) and its habitat.', Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 136 231-244 (2014) [C1]
Riverine vegetation in the Hunter Valley of NSW 2005 - 2019
| Other locations on Wollombi Brook are under study and I am now looking for suitable sites on the Hunter River. This research benefits the Australian community by helping government agencies and landowners reduce risks when managing freshwater wetlands. |
Publications
Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Keene A, Cheetham M, Bush R, 'Role of a rheophyte in bench development on a sand-bed river in southeast Australia', Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 34 941-953 (2009) [C1]
Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, 'Natural river recovery from catastrophic channel changes by vegetation invasion of the sand-bedded Wollombi Brook, Australia', The 7th International Symposium on Ecohydraulics: The International Conference of Science and Information Technologies for Sustainable Management of Aquatic Ecosystems CD-ROM, Concepcion, Chile (2009) [E1]
Keene A, Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Bush R, Cheetham M, 'Riparian revegetation and creation of a pool-riffle sequence by river restoration works on the sand-bedded Widden Brook, Australia', The 7th International Symposium on Ecohydraulics: The International Conference of Science and Information Technologies for Sustainable Management of Aquatic Ecosystems CD-ROM, Concepcion, Chile (2009) [E1]
Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, Keene A, Bush R, 'Flow regimes influencing riparian vegetation on an unregulated sand-bed stream in the Hunter Valley, NSW', H2009: Proceedings of H2009, the 32nd Hydrology and Water Resources Symposium, Newcastle, NSW (2009) [E1]
Erskine WD, Chalmers AC, Townley-Jones ME, 'The importance of sediment control for recovery of incised channels', Sediment Dynamics for a Changing Future, Warsaw, Poland (2010) [E1]
Erskine WD, Keene A, Bush R, Cheetham M, Chalmers AC, 'Influence of riparian vegetation on channel widening and subsequent contraction on a sand-bed stream since European settlement: Widden Brook, Australia', Geomorphology, 147-148 102-114 (2012) [C1]
Erskine WD, Saynor MJ, Chalmers AC, Riley SJ, 'Water, wind, wood, and trees: Interactions, spatial variations, temporal dynamics, and their potential role in river rehabilitation', Geographical Research, 50 60-74 (2012) [C1]
Chalmers AC, Erskine WD, Keene AF, Bush RT, 'Relationship between vegetation, hydrology and fluvial landforms on an unregulated sand-bed stream in the Hunter Valley, Australia', Austral Ecology, 37 193-203 (2012) [C1]
Chalmers A, Erskine WD, Erskine F, 'Partial geomorphic and floristic recovery of an incised channel over the last twenty years on dairy arm, hunter valley, Australia 101-130 (2012)
Edit
Dr Anita Chalmers
Position
Lecturer
School of Environmental and Life Sciences
Faculty of Science
Focus area
Environmental Science and Management
Contact Details
| anita.chalmers@newcastle.edu.au | |
| Phone | (02) 4349 4462 |
| Fax | (02) 4348 4145 |
Office
| Room | SOE147 |
|---|---|
| Building | Science Offices. |
| Location | Ourimbah 10 Chittaway Road Ourimbah, NSW 2258 Australia |
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