Appendix 8 - Oberon Council · Middle Creek Quarries Appendix 8 Report No.930/01 A8 Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd This Biodiversity Assessment provides a true and fair review

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT OBERON EARTHMOVING PTY LIMITED

Appendix 8 Middle Creek Quarries

Report No.930/01

A8

Appendix 8

Biodiversity Impact

Assessment

(Total No. of pages including blank pages = 66)

OBERON EARTHMOVING PTY LIMITED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Middle Creek Quarries Appendix 8

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Report No.930/01

Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd A8

PROPOSED

QUARRY EXTENSION-

MIDDLE CREEK QUARRIES,

SEWELLS CREEK ROAD,

OBERON, OBERON LOCAL

GOVERNMENT AREA

BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Prepared for

OBERON EARTHMOVING

PTY LIMITED

By

Danny O’Brien (Director)

Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd

(Ecological & Heritage Consultants)

MAY 2016



Report No.930/01

A8 Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd

This Biodiversity Assessment provides a true and fair review of the proposal in relation to its

potential effects on the environment. It addresses to the fullest extent possible all matters

affecting or likely to affect the environment as a result of the proposal.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS PTY LTD

P.O. BOX 314,

GOSFORD, NSW 2250

PH: 0405 585 557

[email protected]



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Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd A8-1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Oberon Earthmoving Pty Limited commissioned Environmental Assessments Pty Limited to prepare a

biodiversity impact assessment including a Seven Part Test of Significance for a proposed quarry

extension to the existing Middle Creek Quarries operation located at Lot 2, DP 1112479, Sewells Creek

Road at Oberon within the Oberon Local Government Area (LGA). This ecological/ biodiversity

assessment is a more detailed ecological assessment of the overall study area to the initial Constraints

Analysis (biodiversity and heritage) report previously prepared for the quarry extension (Environmental

Assessments Pty Limited, November, 2015).

The proposed extension to the existing quarry will be referred hereafter as ‘the proposed extension area,

whereas the wider property boundaries inclusive of the proposed extension area is referred to as the

‘wider study area’ or the ‘study area’.

Sixty-four (64) threatened species of flora and twenty-five (25) threatened species of fauna listed under

the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 are known to occur within the Oberon area according to

the OEH’s Bionet Atlas database records (dated 22nd

of October, 2015). The Environment Protection &

Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (Protected Matters Search Tool) search on matters of National

environmental significance had taken place on the 6th of November, 2015 (coordinates -33.70689 149.

80227), listed 10 threatened species and 10 migratory species that may occur within the area at Oberon.

The search covered the study area and approximately 10 kilometres radius of the study area.

Fauna:

Detailed fauna surveys were carried out within the study area during March, 2016. These detailed

surveys included a detailed survey of the fauna characteristics of the study area and included targeted

surveys of a range of threatened species of fauna that may utilise the study area including the remnant

vegetation within or adjacent to the proposed extension area that are listed under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995 and the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999

identified within the initial desktop search. The species targeted include (but not limited to) the Grey-

headed Flying Fox, Eastern Bentwing Bat, Southern Myotis, Barking Owl, Gang-gang Cockatoo, Varied

Sittella, Scarlet Robin, Flame Robin, Brown Tree-creeper and the Little Eagle. Both the Scarlet Robin

(Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995) and the Gang-gang Cockatoo (Schedule 2,

Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995) were recorded within the study area during the

detailed ecological assessments. The Purple Copper Butterfly (and its associated food plant Black

Thorn Bursaria spinosa ssp lasiophylla) was also surveyed and its habitat (presence or absence) sought

and considered, however the Purple Copper Butterfly and its habitat in the form of its associated food

plant Bursaria spinosa were not recorded either within the proposed extension area or the wider study

area during the detailed ecological assessments. A seven part test of significance under section 5A of the

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 has been applied to several threatened species based

on the species recorded or to other species considered to be relevant based on broad habitat parameters.

In addition to the two threatened species of fauna recorded (i.e. the Gang-gang Cockatoo and the Scarlet

Robin) several locally significant fauna recorded and included the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo,

White-winged Chough, Little Falcon, Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Forest Wombat.



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A8-2 Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd

Flora:

A detailed flora assessment of the study area was undertaken in March, 2016. Numerous threatened

species of flora that are known to occur within the Oberon LGA and the overall Oberon Catchment

Management Area (CMA) sub-region were targeted during the detailed flora surveys of the study area.

However, no threatened species of flora or ROTAPs (Rare Or Threatened Australian Plants) were

recorded and none are expected to occur likely due to the majority of the study area (including the areas

of remnant vegetation and the proposed extension area) are disturbed and have considerable clearing and

grazing impacts. No locally significant flora species were recorded and none are expected to occur.

Ecological Communities:

Several endangered ecological communities (EECs) as described under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995 are also present within the Oberon Local Government Area. These endangered

ecological communities known or expected to occur include:

• White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland-endangered ecological community,

• Tableland Basalt Forest in the Sydney Basin and South Eastern Highlands Bioregions-endangered

ecological community,

• Tablelands Snow Gum, Black Sallee, Candlebark and Ribbon Gum Grassy Woodland in the South

Eastern Highlands, Sydney Basin, South East Corner and NSW South Western Slopes Bioregions-

endangered ecological community,

• Montane Peatlands and Swamps of the New England Tableland, NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin,

South East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian Alps bioregions-endangered ecological

community.

One Commonwealth listed ecological community described under the Environment Protection &

Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC) is also known to occur within the Oberon LGA, this

ecological community being White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodlands and derived

native grasslands-critically endangered ecological community.

None of the above endangered ecological communities or the above listed critically endangered

ecological community were found to be present within the proposed extension area or within the wider

study area. The remnant vegetation present within the proposed extension area was found to be

dominated by the Narrow-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata and the Mountain Gum Eucalyptus

dalrympleana ssp dalrympleana. This vegetation association is considered to be Montane Woodland a

vegetation community common within the wider locality of the study area.



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It is concluded that the proposed quarry extension would not have a significant effect on threatened

species, populations or endangered ecological communities as described under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995 and the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999,

including the Scarlet Robin and the Gang-gang Cockatoo. It is also concluded that the proposed quarry

extension would not result in a significant loss of biodiversity characteristics or disturbance of habitat

within or surrounding the proposed extension area providing the recommendations of the biodiversity

assessment are fully implemented. These recommendations are as follows:

Recommendation No. 1. That vegetation clearing and removal be minimised and limited to the

proposed extension area; and that no accidental damage to retained vegetation occurs within both

Remnant Vegetation Areas #1 and #2. Exclusion tape and signage should be installed on-site to ensure

that machinery does not enter into the vegetated areas to be retained that may otherwise damage the

remaining vegetation not intended for clearing.

Recommendation No. 2. To offset the impacts on the two areas of remnant vegetation that would

be disturbed as a result of the proposed quarry extension, it is recommended to retain, expand and

connect other remnant vegetation areas outside of the Project Site Boundary for biodiversity offsetting

purposes.

Recommendation No. 3. Avoid stockpiling of logs and trees that may otherwise create havens

for foxes, rabbits and feral cats. Cleared vegetation should be spread and not stockpiled to avoid creating

feral animal havens.

Recommendation No. 4. That an erosion and sediment control plan be developed to ensure that

all sediments, erosional impacts and weed propagules are contained within the study area so as to not to

impact on nearby natural systems including Captain Kings Creek.



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CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................... 5

1.2 STUDY AREA ....................................................................................................................... 5

1.3 THE PROPOSAL ................................................................................................................... 9

1.4 SCOPE OF WORKS .............................................................................................................. 9

2 RELEVANT LEGISLATION ........................................................................................................ 9

2.1 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT, 1999 ..... 9

2.2 THREATENED SPECIES CONSERVATION ACT 1995 ................................................. 10

2.3 FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ACT 1994 ........................................................................... 10

2.4 NOXIOUS WEEDS ACT 1993 ........................................................................................... 11

2.5 STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICIES ...................................................... 11

3 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ..................................................................................................... 11

3.1 OVERVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 11

3.2 CATCHMENT ..................................................................................................................... 11

3.3 BIOREGIONAL CONTEXT ............................................................................................... 12

4 RESULTS ..................................................................................................................................... 12

4.1 VEGETATION & FLORA .................................................................................................. 12

4.2 FAUNA ................................................................................................................................ 18

5 DISCUSSION ............................................................................................................................... 27

5.1 WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & HABITAT FRAGMENTATION.......................................... 27

5.2 LOCALLY SIGNIFICANT SPECIES: ................................................................................ 27

6 CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS............................................................................. 27

GLOSSARY OF TERMS ................................................................................................................. 60

FIGURES:

Figure 1. Existing Quarry and Proposed Extraction Area ..................................................................... 6

Figure 2. Key Geographic Features ....................................................................................................... 7

Figure 3. .................................................................................................................................................. 8

APPENDICES:

APPENDIX 1 ....................................................................................................................................... 31

APPENDIX 2 ....................................................................................................................................... 35



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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

Oberon Earthmoving Pty Limited commissioned Environmental Assessments Pty Limited to prepare a

biodiversity impact assessment including a Seven Part Test of Significance for a proposed quarry

extension to the existing Middle Creek Quarries operation located at Sewells Creek Road, Oberon

within the Central West of New South Wales. The cadastral details of the quarry are Lot 2, DP 1112479,

Sewells Creek Road at Oberon, Parish of Oberon, County of Westmoreland, within the Oberon Local

Government Area (LGA). The study area can be found on the Oberon 1:25,000 topographical map

(Series 8830-1S, 3rd

Edition). The grid reference to the approximate centre of the study area is GR:

759800E: and 6267250N:. The mean elevation of the study area is approximately 1,100 metres ASL.

Access to the Sewells Creek Road Quarry is directly from Sewells Creek Road at Oberon.

This ecological/ biodiversity assessment is a more detailed ecological assessment of the overall study

area to the initial Constraints Analysis (biodiversity and heritage) report previously prepared for the

quarry extension (Environmental Assessments Pty Limited, November, 2015).

The proposed extension is primarily located within cleared and grazed land although there are also

occurrences of remnant natural vegetation that flank the slopes of the proposed extension area. Captain

Kings Creek flows through the area and several open dams are located within the drainage lines within

the wider property.

The proposed extension to the existing quarry will be referred hereafter as ‘the proposed extension area’,

whereas the wider property boundaries inclusive of the proposed extension area are referred to as the

‘wider study area’ or the ‘study area’.

This biodiversity impact assessment (incorporating Seven Part Tests of Significance) forms part of the

Environment Impact Statement prepared by RW Corkery & Co Pty Limited for Oberon Earthmoving

Pty Limited.

1.2 STUDY AREA

The proposed extension area and features are bounded by private landholding to the north, the Sewells

Creek Road to the south, other private landholdings to the east and the Essington State Forest to the

west. The adjacent Essington State Forest is a monocultural softwood pine forest plantation. A 330kV

transmission line extends in a north-south axis along the western precinct of the study area. There are

several dams present within the study area’s property boundary which act as water sources for the

population of beef cattle that graze throughout the study area. The majority of the study area is cleared

and heavily grazed in the understorey. There are several areas of remnant vegetation remaining that

consist of montane woodland most being isolated clumps or groves of eucalypts. However, two of the

larger areas of remnant vegetation are located within or adjacent to the proposed quarry extension areas.

Lake Oberon is located approximately 2 km to the south-east of the study area and is the main source of

water supply to the township of Oberon. The study area drains to an ephemeral drainage line that drains

into the Captain Kings Creek which is located to the south-west of the extension area.

The following terms are used throughout this report:

• The ‘study area’ which includes the area that will be directly affected by the proposal i.e. the

proposed extension area,

• The ‘wider study area’ which includes as the study area and the broader surrounding areas which

may be affected by the proposal, either directly or indirectly and is defined by the property

boundary,

• ‘Locality’, which incorporates the study area, wider study area and the Oberon LGA and environs



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Figure 1. Existing Quarry and Proposed Extraction Area



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Figure 2. Key Geographic Features

Essington State Forest Water tank Remnant Vegetation Area #1

Remnant Vegetation Area #2

Site access Existing quarry



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Figure 3.

Wombat burrow Remnant Vegetation Area #1

Above: Northern section

Above: Southern section Remnant Vegetation Area #2



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1.3 THE PROPOSAL

The existing quarry and the material within the proposed extension is gravel material primarily for the

use for road construction and other civil works. Refer to the details of the proposal outlined within the

Environmental Impact Statement prepared by R.W. Corkery Pty Limited.

1.4 SCOPE OF WORKS

This assessment primarily focuses on the potential impacts that may result from the proposal.

The scope of this assessment includes the following tasks:

• Field investigations, inclusive of:

o Site assessment of the proposed extension area, the study area and the periphery of lands

adjacent to the study area.

o Identification of areas of sensitivity which require consideration.

• Flora and fauna survey/assessment in accordance with the OEH’s, 2004 guidelines for field

surveys,

• ‘Significance of Impacts Assessments’ in accordance with the NSW Environmental Planning &

Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and

Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) as required,

• Recommendations for avoidance of impacts, and mitigation measures to minimise the potential for

impacts where avoidance is not possible,

• A final flora and fauna Biodiversity Impact Assessment report to accompany the EIS for the

proposed gravel quarry extension area.

2 RELEVANT LEGISLATION

The proponent (Oberon Earthmoving Pty Limited) and the consent authority/s are required to consider

all potential impacts on the site’s biodiversity values pursuant to the EP&A Act and the following key

environmental legislation.

Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act)

NSW Fisheries Management Act 1999 (FM Act)

State Environmental Planning Policy-44 (Koala Habitat Protection).

2.1 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION

ACT, 1999

The Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC, Act) governs the

Commonwealth environmental assessment process and requires that the following Matters of National

Environmental Significance (NES) where relevant, be considered:

World Heritage Properties

National Heritage Places

Wetlands of International Significance (Ramsar Sites)

Commonwealth Marine Areas

Threatened Ecological Communities



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Threatened Species

Migratory Species

The Great Barrier Marine Park

Nuclear Actions

A water resource in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development.

Approval under the EPBC Act is required when the Commonwealth Department of Environment

determines that there would be, or it is likely that there would be, a significant impact on any matter of

NES under the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999. No matters of National

Environmental Significance were identified in relation to the proposed quarry extension therefore

referral of the proposal to the Commonwealth Department of Environment is not necessary in this

instance.

2.2 THREATENED SPECIES CONSERVATION ACT 1995

The Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 (TSC Act) provides a framework for listing and

declaration of threatened species, populations, endangered ecological communities, critical habitat, and

key threatening processes in NSW. The TSC Act is administered by the NSW Office of Environment

and Heritage (OEH).

Under section 5A of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 (EP&A Act), assessments of

significance (Seven-Part Tests) may be required to determine the likely significance of impacts on

threatened species, endangered ecological communities or critical habitat. The Scientific Committee has

also made a determination to declare several key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

A number of threatened species, endangered ecological communities and key threatening processes are

present within the wider locality. Relevant discussion and Seven-Part Tests are provided in Section 5

and Appendix 2 respectively.

2.3 FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ACT 1994

The Fisheries Management Act, 1994 (FM Act) provides for the conservation, protection and

management of fisheries, aquatic systems and habitats in NSW. The Department of Primary Industries -

Fisheries (DPI) manages the majority of the FM Act, although OEH has some responsibilities relating to

endangered species and habitats.

The FM Act applies in relation to all waters that are within the limits of the State, and regulates certain

activities that have the potential to impact on aquatic habitats. These activities include: dredging or

reclamation works; works that would block the passage of fish in a bay, inlet, river or creek; the

construction of structures within aquatic habitats (e.g. bridges, roads, causeways, pipelines); and

activities that would cause any damage to or destruction of mangroves, seagrasses or seaweeds growing

on public water land or the foreshore of public water land.

The proponent and approval authority is required to notify DPI prior to undertaking any of the above

activities, with the exception of harm to ‘marine vegetation’ (mangroves, seagrasses etc) for which a

permit would be required.

The Project proposal would not involve any activities that require approval under the FM Act.



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2.4 NOXIOUS WEEDS ACT 1993

The Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) establishes a system for the identification and control of

noxious weeds in NSW. The NW Act divides noxious weeds into four categories which determine the

level of control required. Responsibility for the control of noxious weeds lies with the owner and/or

occupier of private land and Crown land, local councils and other public authorities on land they occupy.

This obligation can be enforced by the issue of weed control notices by the Minister and local control

authorities. The study area and the Oberon Local Government Area are located within the Local Control

Area of the Upper Macquarie County Council.

Under Section 13 of the NW Act, public authorities are required to control weeds likely to spread to

adjoining land. Two (2) noxious weed species were recorded within the study area namely the

Blackberry Rubus fruticosus and the Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis. Both of these noxious weed

species are Class 4 species under the NW Act meaning these plants pose a threat to primary production,

the environment or human health, are widely distributed in an area to which the order applies, and are

likely to spread in the area or to another area.

2.5 STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICIES

SEPP 44 (Koala Habitat Protection)

In relation to State Environmental Planning Policy-44 (Koala Habitat Protection), the study area does

not qualify as ‘Potential Koala Habitat’ under the terms of SEPP 44. This due to the lack of SEPP-44

designated food trees present (described in Schedule 2 of SEPP-44) even though the site is located

within the Oberon LGA which is listed under Schedule 1 of this policy.

3 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

3.1 OVERVIEW

The study area (including the proposed quarry extension area) is a largely cleared open pasture area of

land that is heavily grazed by beef cattle. There are two main areas of remnant woodland vegetation

units remaining on the far upper slopes of the study area dominated by eucalypts. These remnant areas

of vegetation are referred to as remnant vegetation area #1 located within the northern precinct of the

study area and remnant vegetation area #2 located within the southern precinct of the study area (refer to

Figure 2). The understorey within both of these remnant areas of vegetation are also grazed and lack an

indigenous understorey vegetation shrub stratum. There is a lineal area of roadside vegetation present

along the road reserve of Sewells Creek Road to the south of the study area however this area of

vegetation is located outside of the study area property boundary. The remaining areas of natural

vegetation within the study area are isolated small patches or groves or individual trees consisting

entirely of eucalypts primarily Narrow-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata.

There are several dams present within the wider study area, however all of these dams are located

outside of the proposed quarry extension area and would not be affected by the proposal.

3.2 CATCHMENT

The study area drains into the Captain Kings Creek and lies within the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment

area, and geographically is situated in undulating topography of approximately 1,100 metres ASL.



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3.3 BIOREGIONAL CONTEXT

The biogeographical context and location of the study area and Oberon LGA is within the South Eastern

Highlands Biogeographic Region of New South Wales. Botanically, the study area (and the Oberon

LGA) is located within the Central Tablelands Botanical Subdivision of New South Wales (Harden,

1992). This botanical sub-division contains a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna in NSW and is

represented by a variety of habitats and a high degree of threatened flora and fauna species and

endangered ecological communities that are poorly represented in the current localised national park

estate. The faunal assemblages for the region are typically Bassian, with the occasional Torresian faunal

assemblage occurring during summer months when visitation by tropical migratory avifauna occurs

usually between the months of October to March.

There are several vegetation communities and wildlife habitats present within the Oberon LGA with

broad habitats consisting of woodlands, open forests, sedgelands, wetlands, riparian and aquatic habitats.

Wider district conservation areas include (but not limited to) the Blue Mountains National Park,

Kanangra-Boyd National Park, Abercrombie River National Park, Marrangaroo National Park and the

Mares Forest National Park. Nature Reserves present within the wider district include the Wiarborough

Nature Reserve, Bubalahla Nature Reserve, Evans Crown Nature Reserve and the Wambool Nature

Reserve.

4 RESULTS

The initial desktop searches resulted in sixty-four (64) threatened species of flora and twenty-three (23)

threatened species of fauna listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 are known for

the Oberon area according to the OEH’s Bionet Atlas database records (dated 22nd

of October, 2015).

The Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (Protected Matters Search Tool)

search on matters of National environmental significance had taken place on the 6th of November, 2015

(coordinates -33.70689 149. 80227), listed 10 threatened species and 10 migratory species that may

occur within the area at Oberon. The search covered the study area and approximately 10 kilometres

radius of the study area.

The detailed field assessment surveys of the study area had been undertaken over a four-day consecutive

period from the 9th of March, 2016 to the 12

th of March, 2016 consisting of four days and three nights

and had been undertaken with the following State legislative licences and approvals:

NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service: Scientific Investigation Licence: S12268.

NSW Department of Primary Industries Animal Research Authority.

NSW Department of Primary Industries Animal Care & Ethics Committee DG Approval.

4.1 VEGETATION & FLORA

4.1.1 METHODOLOGY

A full flora survey and assessment of the study area was undertaken including quadrats, transects and

random meander surveys in accordance with the OEH’s Threatened Biodiversity Survey and

Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities, 2004 guidelines for flora and fauna surveys.

All floristic species observed were recorded and documented within the study area including exotic or

introduced taxa.

In addition to the sampling of the site’s floristic species composition, all relevant threatened species of

flora as well as any ROTAPs (Rare Or Threatened Australian Plants) and endangered ecological

communities were targeted and considered within, and throughout the study area.



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The floristic species composition of the subject site is described in the ‘Site Results’ of this biodiversity

assessment.

Vegetation Communities

The study areas remnant vegetation units contain only one vegetation community viz: ‘Montane

Woodland’ as described by Keith & Benson (1988).


Conservation Act, 1995 are also present within the Oberon CMA subregion. Table 1 provides a

summary of endangered ecological communities that are known to occur within the Oberon locality and

the wider Oberon CMA subregion and environs. In addition, one Commonwealth listed ecological

community described under the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC)

is also known for the Oberon CMA subregion this ecological community being White Box-Yellow Box-

Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodlands and derived native grasslands-critically endangered ecological

community.


ecological community were found to be present within the study area.

Table 1. Endangered Ecological Communities Present in the Oberon CMA subregion

Endangered Ecological Community Presence/Absent within the study area

White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum

Woodland-endangered ecological community-

endangered ecological community

Absent

Tableland Basalt Forest in the Sydney Basin and

South Eastern Highlands Bioregions-endangered

ecological community

Absent

Tablelands Snow Gum, Black Sallee, Candlebark and

Ribbon Gum Grassy Woodland in the South Eastern

Highlands, Sydney Basin, South East Corner and

NSW South Western Slopes Bioregions-endangered

ecological community

Absent

Montane Peatlands and Swamps of the New England

Tableland, NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin, South

East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian

Alps bioregions-endangered ecological community

Absent

White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum grassy

woodlands and derived native grasslands-critically

endangered ecological community (Commonwealth)

Absent



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Threatened Flora

No threatened species of flora were recorded within the study area including any species listed in Table

2 below even though these species were targeted during the field assessment phase. Moreover, no

ROTAPs (Rare Or Threatened Australian Plants) after Briggs & Leigh were recorded within the study

area.

Table 2 provides a summary of threatened species of flora known to occur within the locality of Oberon

and the wider Oberon CMA subregion.

Table 2. Relevant Threatened Flora

Page 1 of 3

Vernacular Name 4.1.1.1 Scientific Name Absence/Presence

Not recorded

Mountain Trachymene Trachymene scapigera Not recorded

Yass Daisy Ammobium craspedioides Not recorded

Mauve Burr-daisy Calotis glandulosa Not recorded

Austral Cornflower Rhaponticum australe Not recorded

Thick-leaf Star-hair Astrotricha crassifolia Not recorded

Hoary Sunray Leucochrysum albicans var. tricolor Not recorded

Klaphake's Sedge Carex klaphakei Not recorded

Hibbertia puberula Not recorded

Woronora Beard-

heath

Leucopogon exolasius Not recorded

Dillwynia Dillwynia tenuifolia Not recorded

Smooth Bush-Pea Pultenaea glabra Not recorded

Small Purple-pea Swainsona recta Not recorded

Silky Swainson-pea Swainsona sericea Not recorded

Kangaroo Wattle Acacia clunes-rossiae Not recorded

Bynoe's Wattle Acacia bynoeana Not recorded

Flockton Wattle Acacia flocktoniae Not recorded

Downy Wattle Acacia pubescens Not recorded

Swamp Everlasting Xerochrysum palustre Not recorded

Aromatic Peppercress Lepidium hyssopifolium Not recorded

Bossiaea fragrans Not recorded

Few-seeded Bossiaea Bossiaea oligosperma Not recorded

Small Scurf-pea Cullen parvum Not recorded

Dwarf Phylotta Phylotta humifusa Not recorded



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Table 2. Relevant Threatened Flora (Cont’d)

Page 2 of 3


Wingercarribee

Gentian

Gentiana wingecarribiensis Not recorded

Grevillea Grevillea divaricata Not recorded

Kowmung Hakea Hakea dohertyi Not recorded

Needle Geebung Persoonia acerosa Not recorded

Bargo Geebung Persoonia bargoensis Not recorded

Mittagong Geebung Persoonia glaucescens Not recorded

Hairy Geebung Persoonia hirsuta Not recorded

Clandulla Geebung Persoonia marginata Not recorded

Cotoneaster

Pomaderris

Pomaderris cotoneaster Not recorded

Silky Pomaderris Pomaderris sericea Not recorded

Brown Pomaderris Pomaderris brunnea Not recorded

Commersonia prostrate Not recorded

Gyrostemon thesioides Not recorded

Callistemon megalongensis Not recorded

Candem White Gum Eucalyptus benthamii Not recorded

Black Gum Eucalyptus aggerata Not recorded

Broad-leaved Sally Eucalyptus aquatic Not recorded

Paddys River Box Eucalyptus macarthurii Not recorded

Silver-leafed Gum Eucalyptus pulverulenta Not recorded

Robertson’s

Peppermint

Eucalyptus robertsonii ssp. hemisphaerica Not recorded

Cambage Kunzea Kunzea cambagei Not recorded

Asterolasis buxifolia Not recorded

Deane’s Boronia Boronia deanei Not recorded

Leionema lachnaeoides Not recorded

Philotheca ericifolia Not recorded

Coveny’s Zieria Zieria covenyi Not recorded

Zieria obcordata Not recorded

Austral Toadflax Thesium australe Not recorded

Derwentia blakelyi Not recorded

Rough Eyebright Euphrasia scabra Not recorded

Solanum amourense Not recorded



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Table 2. Relevant Threatened Flora (Cont’d)

Page 3 of 3


Dense Cord-rush Baloskion longipes Not recorded

Duramana Fingers Caladenia attenuate Not recorded

Crimson Spider

Orchid

Caladenia concolor Not recorded

Buttercup Doubletail Diuris aequalis Not recorded

Bauer’s Midge Orchid Genoplesium baueri Not recorded

Slaty Leek Orchid Prasophyllum fuscum Not recorded

Tarengo Leek Orchid Prasophyllum petilum Not recorded

Sydney Plains Orchid Pterostylis saxicolor Not recorded

A spear-grass Austrostipa wakoolica Not recorded

Tall Knotweed Persicaria elatior Not recorded

Noxious Weeds

Noxious weed species identified during investigations include the Blackberry Rubus fruticosus and the

Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis. Both of these species are Class 4 noxious weeds, meaning they are

plants that pose a threat to primary production, the environment or human health, are widely distributed

in an area to which the order applies and are likely to spread in the area or to another area.

Under the NW Act, the proponent (and all landowners/managers) is required to manage the growth of

the Class 4 weed species in a manner that reduces its numbers spread and incidence and continuously

inhibits its reproduction.

Appropriate weed control, weed dispersal prevention, and appropriate transport and disposal of weed

materials must be included to ensure that the proponent’s obligations under the NW Act are met.

Key Threatening Processes (KTPs)

Relevant KTPs relating to weeds considered during this ecological assessment included:

Invasion and establishment of Exotic Vines and Scramblers (eg. Morning Glory, Bridal

Creeper).

Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses (eg. Kikuyu Grass, Rhodes

Grass, African Lovegrass, Vasey Grass, Paspalum).

Invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana camara.

Infection of native plant communities by Phytophthora cinnamomi.

SITE RESULTS

The floristic species composition within the study area is limited due to the overall environmental

impacts including past land clearing activities, current and past grazing impacts, site degradation

impacts from existing quarrying operations, weed invasion and the isolated nature of the two main areas

of remnant vegetation present within the study area. The full list of both flora (and fauna) recorded

within the study area are outlined in Appendix 1.



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TREES:

The tree species present are dominated by the Narrow-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata and the

Mountain Gum Eucalyptus dalrympleana ssp dalrympleana. Other tree species recorded include Broad-

leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus dives and the Red Stringybark Eucalyptus macrorhyncha the latter

species being recorded as a solitary individual only. The lower tree species include the Green Wattle

Acacia irrorata and Coast Myall Acacia binervia.

SHRUBS:

No indigenous shrub species were recorded due to the heavy grazing impacts affecting the study area

even within the areas of remnant vegetation. Exotic shrub species are present however and include

Inkweed Phytolacca octandra, Blackberry Rubus fruticosus (noxious), Fireweed Senecio

madagascariensis (noxious) and Fleabane Conyza bonariensis only.

OTHERS:

Other species were found to be extremely limited and sporadic. Nonetheless these species included

indigenous species being Bluebell Wahlenbergia communis, Hedgehog Grass Echinopogon ovatus, Poa

sieberiana and the Bracken Fern Pteridium esculentum. The climbers/twiners are also highly limited

however include the False Sarsaparilla Hardenbergia violacea and Clematis aristida only.

LOCALLY SIGNIFICANT SPECIES:

No locally significant species of flora were recorded.

NOXIOUS WEEDS: Blackberry Rubus fruticosus and Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis only.

These weed species are classified as Class 4 species under the Noxious Weeds Act, 1993.

COMMENTS:

No threatened species of flora as described in the schedules of the Threatened Species Conservation Act,

1995 or the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 were

recorded within or adjacent to the study area. Moreover, no ROTAPs (Rare Or Threatened Australian

Plants) were recorded within or adjacent to the study area and none are likely to occur in this instance.

The remnant vegetation present within the study area is considered to be akin to ‘Montane Woodland’ as

described by Keith & Benson (1988) and is a common vegetation community present within the wider

locality of the Oberon area and environs. All other groves of trees and isolated individual trees present

are also associated with montane woodland vegetation community.

This vegetation community was considered in line with the Final Determinations of the endangered

ecological communities and the critically endangered ecological communities outlined in Table 1 as

described under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 and described under the

Commonwealth’s Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999, however the remnant

vegetation within the proposed extension area (and throughout the study area) is determined not to be

either an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community in this

instance.



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4.2 FAUNA

4.2.1 METHODOLOGY

In addition to the initial fauna habitat assessments, detailed fauna surveys were also applied throughout

the study area which included spotlighting, trapping, frog and owl call playback as well as early morning

bird census methodologies.

The detailed surveys included the following tasks:

- 50 x Elliot box traps (Type A) were set for 3 consecutive nights totalling 150 Trap-nights. These

traps were set in an alternately on the ground and in trees to trap for both terrestrial as well as

arboreal mammals as well as scansorial species.

- 3 x Elliot box traps (Type B) were set for 3 consecutive nights totalling 9 Trap-nights.

- 6 x cage traps were set for 3 consecutive nights totalling 24 Trap-nights.

- 2 x harp-traps to capture microbats were set for 3 consecutive nights totalling 6 Trap-nights.

- Dawn/early morning bird census surveys were carried out throughout the study period.

- Birds were also recorded incidentally throughout the study area at all times opportunistically.

- Reptiles and amphibians were targeted throughout the study area including within open paddock

areas, areas of remnant vegetation as well as all dam sites.

- Spotlighting surveys were carried out to survey for owls, frogs, macropods, wombats, possums

etc. Frog call census was also undertaken at night to determine frog calls to species level.

- Owl call playback methods were utilised throughout each survey evening for 3 consecutive

nights.

HABITAT SEARCHES:

Habitat searches were also carried out. These fauna habitat assessment searches included the

following tasks:

- Examination of dense grassy understorey throughout the study area included the two main

remnant vegetation areas,

- Examination of scratch-marks on trees,

- Assessment of possible tree hollows and potential habitat trees,

- Searches were undertaken within cracks, and fissures in trees for reptiles, amphibians and small

mammals,

- Nests of avians sought,

- Stag searches,

- Scat, fur and skeletal material searches,

- Searches for avifauna and reptiles and amphibians within the dams,

- All dam sites were examined for evidence of fauna species and fauna activity,

- Road-side vegetation along Sewells Creek Road assessed.



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4.2.2 RESULTS

Fauna species recorded during the field assessment phase were primarily avians (birds) and included

inter alia the Crimson Rosella, Eastern Rosella, Red-rumped Parrot, White Cockatoo, Galah, Gang

Gang Cockatoo (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995), Yellow-tailed Black

Cockatoo (locally significant), Yellow-faced Honeyeater, Eastern Spinebill, Noisy Friarbird, Grey

Fantail, Scarlet Robin (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995), White-throated

Tree-creeper, Eastern Silvereye, Striated Thornbill, Golden Whistler, Spotted Pardalote, Striated

Pardalote, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike, Pied Butcherbird, Grey Butcherbird, Australian Raven,

Australian Magpie, Pied Currawong, White-winged Chough (locally significant), Welcome Swallow,

Little Falcon (locally significant), Wedge-tailed Eagle (locally significant), Boobook Owl, Wood Duck,

Pacific Black Duck, White-faced Heron and the Australian Grebe.

Mammals recorded included the Forest Wombat Vombatus ursinus, Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus

giganteus, Brush-tailed Possum Trichosurus vulpecular, Yellow-footed Antechinus Antechinus flavipes,

Little Forest Bat Vespadelus vulturnis, White-striped Freetail (Mastiff) Bat Nyctinomus australis and the

Gould’s Wattle Bat Chalinolobus gouldii. Exotic or introduced species recorded included the European

Fox Vulpes vulpes and the European Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus. The House Mouse Mus musculus

(exotic) and the Pacific Black Rat Rattus rattus (also exotic) are also expected to occur but were not

recorded.

No reptiles were recorded although several amphibians were recorded and included the Verreaux’s Frog

Litoria verreauxi, Peron’s Tree Frog Litoria peroni, Common Froglet Crinia signifera and the Spotted

Grass Frog Limnodynastes tasmaniensis. The full list of both fauna recorded within the study area is

outlined in Appendix 1.

Although the Grey-headed Flying Fox (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act) was not

recorded, this species would forage throughout the study area and feed on the area’s eucalypts when

these trees enter into inflorescence. Summer migratory or seasonal or nomadic species expected to occur

include the Dollarbird, Common Koel, Channel-billed Cuckoo, Sacred Kingfisher and the White-

throated Needletail (also known as the Spine-tailed Swift).

Threatened Fauna Species:

Table 3 provides a summary of threatened species known to occur or are likely to occur within the

locality of the study area and their relevance of habitat found during the site surveys.



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Table 3. Relevant Threatened Fauna

The species listed below are an extract from the report generated from Bionet on the 22nd

of October,

2015.

Page 1 of 3

VERNACULAR

NAME

SCIENTIFIC

NAME

TSC Act

Coding

EPBC Act Coding RELEVANCE OF

HABITAT ON SITE

Booroolong Frog Litoria

booroolongensis

TSC E1 EPBC Act E No suitable habitat

present

Green and Golden

Bell Frog

Litoria aurea TSC E1 EPBC Act V No suitable habitat

present

Little Eagle Hieraaetus

morphnoides

TSC V Potential foraging

habitat present

throughout the

vicinity

Square-tailed

Kite

Lophoictinia

isura

TSC V Potential foraging

habitat present

throughout the

vicinity

Gang-gang

Cockatoo

Callocephalon

fimbriatum

TSC V Recorded and

expected to occur on

a regular basis

Barking Owl Ninox connivens TSC V Potential foraging

habitat present in

remnant areas

Powerful Owl Ninox strenua TSC V Potential foraging

habitat present in

remnant areas but

unlikely

Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa TSC V No habitat present

Brown

Treecreeper

(eastern

subspecies)

Climacteris

picumnus

victoriae

TSC V No habitat present

Red-backed

Button Quail

Turnix maculosus TSC V Potential marginal

foraging habitat

present in remnant

areas

Varied Sittella Daphoenositta

chrysoptera

TSC V Potential marginal

foraging habitat

present in remnant

areas and

throughout the

vicinity



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Table 3. Relevant Threatened Fauna (Cont’d)

Page 2 of 3

VERNACULAR

NAME

SCIENTIFIC

NAME

TSC Act

Coding


HABITAT ON SITE

Scarlet Robin Petroica boodang TSC V Species recorded.

Potential foraging

habitat present

throughout the

vicinity

Flame Robin Petroica

phoenicea


foraging habitat

present in remnant

areas and

throughout the

vicinity

Spotted-tailed

Quoll

Dasyurus

maculatus

TSC V EPBC Act E No habitat present

Koala Phascolarctos

cinereus

TSC V EPBC Act V No habitat present

Yellow-bellied

Glider

Petaurus australis TSC V No habitat present

Squirrel Glider Petaurus

norfolcensis

TSC V No habitat present

due to the isolated

nature of the

remnants, however

the species may be

present in nearby

areas where bulk

native forests or

woodlands occur

Brush-tailed

Rock-wallaby

Petrogale

penicillata

TSC E1 EPBC Act V No habitat present

Grey-headed

Flying-fox

Pteropus

poliocephalus

TSC V EPBC Act V Species likely to

occur and feed on

the site’s eucalypts

when these enter

into inflorescence

Large-eared Pied

Bat

Chalinolobus

dwyeri

TSC V Possible minor

foraging habitat

present

Eastern False

Pipistrelle

Falsistrellus

tasmaniensis

TSC V Possible minor

foraging habitat

present



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Table 3. Relevant Threatened Fauna (Cont’d)

Page 3 of 3

VERNACULAR

NAME

SCIENTIFIC

NAME

TSC Act

Coding


HABITAT ON SITE

Eastern

Bentwing-bat

Miniopterus

schreibersii

oceanensis


foraging habitat

present throughout

Southern Myotis Myotis macropus TSC V No significant

habitat present

although species

may forage along

the nearby Captain

Kings Creek

Greater Broad-

nosed Bat

Scoteanax

rueppellii

TSC V No significant

habitat present

although species

may forage along

the nearby Captain

Kings Creek

Purple Copper

Butterfly

Paralucia

spinifera

TSC E1 EPBC Act V No habitat present

‘E1’ denotes ‘endangered’ under the TSC Act

‘V’ denotes ‘vulnerable’ under the TSC Act

‘E’ denotes ‘endangered’ under the EPBC Act

‘V’ denotes ‘vulnerable’ under the EPBC Act.

Formal assessments of significance (7 Part Tests) were conducted for the species in bold type

(Appendix 2).

In addition to the two threatened species of avifauna recorded within the study area, several additional

species were determined to potentially utilise or pass through the study area or environs are summarised

below.

Gang-gang Cockatoo (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Gang-gang Cockatoo was recorded as a flock of approximately eight (8) individuals passing

overhead of the northern end of Remnant Vegetation Area #2. It was also noted that the Gang-gang

Cockatoo is relatively abundant within the immediate environs of the Oberon township (personal

observation) and is expected to be a common species within the Oberon LGA. The Gang-gang Cockatoo

nests in tree hollows, however there are no suitable hollow present within the proposed extension area

for the species that would be removed. Therefore the proposal would not have a significant effect on the

Gang-gang Cockatoo or its habitat.



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Scarlet Robin (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Scarlet Robin (adult male) was also recorded within the study area’s Remnant Vegetation Area #2.

The Scarlet Robin is a small insectivorous passerine occurring in open forests and woodlands in NSW

but also occurs in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. In NSW it occurs from the coast

to inland slopes and may occur occasionally up to 1,000m ASL (OEH, Scarlet Robin Profile, 2016). The

recording of the Scarlet Robin within the study area is one of those instances. There are a range of

threats to the Scarlet Robin including (but not limited to) habitat clearing and modification, reduction of

native ground cover and reduction of structure and complexity of habitat and predation by feral cats etc.

At this stage, there are several areas of suitable habitat within the locality of the study area for the

Scarlet Robin therefore the proposal is unlikely to have a significant effect on the Scarlet Robin or its

habitat in this instance.

Flame Robin (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Flame Robin is a small insectivorous passerine occurring in open forests and woodlands in NSW

and also occurs in South-east Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. There is broad-based

habitat for the Flame Robin within the study area’s remnant vegetation areas however broad-based

habitat for the species is widespread throughout the locality. The Flame Robin was also targeted during

the field assessments however the species was not recorded and that it is unlikely that the proposal

would have a significant effect on the Flame Robin or its habitat.

Varied Sittella (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera is a small insectivorous sedentary passerine bird of

forests and woodlands that cover most of the mainland Australia excluding deserts and open grasslands

(OEH, 2012). The Varied Sittella has undergone a moderate reduction in population due to habitat

decline in both cover and quality and the species may also be affected by dominance of Noisy Miners in

woodland patches. Key threatening process relevant to the species includes clearing of native vegetation,

loss of hollow-bearing trees and removal of dead wood and trees. Even though potential habitat of the

species is present within parts of the study area, the species was not recorded on site. The species is

unlikely to be significantly affected by the proposal.

Little Eagle (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Little Eagle occurs in open eucalypt forest and woodlands or open woodlands and occurs

throughout much of mainland Australia. The Little Eagle has historically been dependant on rabbits,

however following the spread of calicivirus and subsequent decline in rabbits, the Little Eagle has also

declined in numbers across most bioregions in NSW especially the sheep-wheat belt (OEH, 2012).

Threats to the Little Eagle include clearing and degradation of foraging and breeding habitat as well as

possibly secondary poisoning from the rabbit poison pindone. The Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides

was not recorded within the study area during the field assessment phase. Moreover, no raptor nests

were located within the study area. The Little Eagle is highly likely to predate on the population of

rabbits which is currently plentiful within the study area from time to time, although foraging habitat for

the Little Eagle is widespread throughout the region at this stage. The Little Eagle would not be

significantly affected by the proposal.

Barking Owl (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Barking Owl is an uncommon to rare resident in open forest, woodlands and wooded watercourses

and in arid and coastal regions in most parts of northern and eastern Australia and the south-west of

Western Australia (Slater, Slater & Slater, 1992). Roosts were sought throughout the study area for this

and other large forest owl species however no owls or distinct white-wash excreta pertaining to large

forest owls were located at any location within the study area. Therefore the proposal is unlikely to have

a significant effect on this species. A Seven Part Test of Significance has been prepared for the Barking

Owl and is attached to this assessment report.



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Powerful Owl (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

It is likely that the broader study area is likely to contain potential foraging habitat for the Powerful Owl

in the wider study areas and environs. The Powerful Owl is likely to predate on flying foxes attracted to

the area by the blossoms of the various eucalypts in the area. There are no trees with suitable hollows

present on-site so that species would not be able to breed on-site and that there are no suitable roosting

habitat for the species within the study area. Roosts were sought throughout the study area for this and

other large forest owl species however no owls or distinct white-wash excreta pertaining to large forest

owls were located at any location within the study area. Therefore the proposal is unlikely to have a

significant effect on this species or its habitat.

Squirrel Glider (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

Efforts were made to test trap for the Squirrel Glider within the two main remnant vegetation areas

where Elliot Box Traps were set in trees and baited with universal bait (peanut butter, rolled oats and

bacon pieces) and honey to entice any Squirrel Gliders within the remnant vegetation areas into the

traps, however no Squirrel Gliders were trapped or recorded. The Squirrel Glider is highly unlikely to be

present within the study area due to the fragmented nature of the study areas remnant vegetation and

lack of habitat continuity.

Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby (Schedule E1, TSC Act, E, EPBC Act)

The Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby Petrogale penicillata is a medium-sized wallaby species closely

associated with rocky habitats generally found along the Great Dividing Range but populations are now

more fragmented throughout its range (OEH, 2012). Most of the populations are now small and isolated

from other colonies of the species (OEH, Op cit). The majority of the study area is unsuitable as habitat

for the Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby. The species and its habitat was not recorded within the study area

during the field assessment phase, therefore the proposal is unlikely to have a significant effect on the

Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby.

Yellow-bellied Glider (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Yellow-bellied Glider is unlikely to forage or occur within the study area. No Yellow-bellied

Gliders or sap-site trees were observed or recorded within the study area that would otherwise indicate

the use of the study area by the Yellow-bellied Glider. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant

effect on the Yellow-bellied Glider. A Seven Part Test of Significance has not been applied to the

Yellow-bellied Glider.

Spotted-tailed Quoll (Schedule 2, TSC Act & E, EPBC Act)

There is no significant area of suitable habitat for the Spotted-tailed Quoll present within the study area

due to the limited habitat values on-site and previous disturbance of the broader study area and the site.

As a precaution a scat search as well as a latrine site search was undertaken throughout the study area,

no scats of the species were observed within the study area during the field assessment.

Koala (Schedule 2, TSC Act, V, EPBC Act)

There are no Koala food trees present within or adjacent to the study area for the Koala. The study area

does not qualify as Potential Koala Habitat under State Environmental Planning Policy-44 (Koala

Habitat Protection) as the study area does not contain 15% or more of the Koala designated food trees.



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Grey-headed Flying Fox (Schedule 2, TSC Act, V, EPBC Act)

The Grey-headed Flying Fox is highly likely to forage within the study area’s two main remnant areas of

vegetation when the eucalypts enter into inflorescence. The Grey-headed Flying Fox is easily observed

on most evenings while flying from one feeding area to another depending on what species of tree is in-

flower and in the winter season the Grey-headed Flying Fox would be easily recorded at night

throughout all areas of the Oberon LGA. The Grey-headed Flying Fox is widespread and common in the

region and easily observed throughout the locality on most evenings during foraging activities. There are

no roosting colonies present within or adjacent to the study area at Oberon and that proposal would not

result any significant effect on the Grey-headed Flying Fox and would not result in a significant removal

of any of the species food trees. Therefore, the proposal would not have a significant effect on the Grey-

headed Flying Fox.

Greater Broad-nosed Bat (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Greater Broad-nosed Bat prefers moist gullies in mature coastal forests or rainforests. However the

study area is not located within a coastal environment, nonetheless the species may forage along the

nearby Captain Kings Creek. The study area does not include any significant habitat characteristics for

the Greater Broad-nosed Bat. Therefore, the proposal would not have an effect on the species in this

instance.

Eastern False Pipistrelle (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Eastern False Pipistrelle prefers wet habitat where trees are more that 20 metres in height

(Churchill, 1998). The study area does not contain ‘wet’ habitat and that the proposal would not

significantly damage potential foraging habitat of the Eastern False Pipistrelle.

Eastern (Common) Bentwing Bat (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Eastern Bentwing Bat roosts in caves and similar structures such as mine shafts, tunnels, bridges,

road culverts etc. None of these natural or anthropogenic structures are present within or adjacent to the

study area.

Eastern Free-tail Bat (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Eastern Free-tail Bat roosts in tree hollows in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands (Churchill, 1998).

There are limited or no suitable tree hollows present within the proposed extension area. Therefore, the

proposal would not have a significant effect on the Eastern Free-tail Bat.

Southern (Large-footed) Myotis (Schedule 2, TSC Act)

The Southern (Large-footed) Myotis is chiefly a cave dweller however the species is also known to roost

in tree hollows and can live in most habitats as long as those habitats are near water (Churchill, 1998).

The species is likely to forage along the nearby Captain Kings Creek to the south-west of the study area

and may even venture around the lower-lying areas of the study area. However, there are no ‘caves’

present within or adjacent to the study area and there are limited trees with hollows present within the

proposed extraction area; the remaining trees with possible hollows outside of the impact zone would be

retained and unaffected by the proposed works, subsequently the proposal would not have a significant

effect on the Southern Myotis.

Green & Golden Bell Frog (Schedule E1, TSC Act, V, EPBC Act)

There is no area of habitat present (including breeding or foraging habitat) for the Green & Golden Bell

Frog within the study area or immediate environs. Therefore, the proposal would not have a significant

effect on the species.



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Purple Copper Butterfly (Schedule E1, TSC Act)

The Purple Copper Butterfly is listed as an endangered species under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995. The Purple Copper Butterfly occurs only within the Central West of NSW and

has a very limited distribution and is found only above 900 metres ASL and is generally located within

100 metres of its host plant the Native Thorn Bursaria spinosa ssp. lasiophylla. The Purple Copper

Butterfly is only visible on sunny days between August and November. The initial ecological

assessments (undertaken prior to this current detailed ecological assessment of the study area) had been

undertaken in late October, 2015 well within the appropriate survey window period targeting the Purple

Copper Butterfly. During this period, the Purple Copper Butterfly (and its associated food plant Black

Thorn Bursaria spinosa ssp lasiophylla) was targeted and its habitat sought throughout the study area.

However the Purple Copper Butterfly and its habitat in the form of its associated food plant Bursaria

spinosa were not recorded either within the proposed extension area or the wider study area during the

initial preliminary field investigations and its food plants once again surveyed during the detailed

ecological assessments of the study area in March, 2016 and that no evidence of the Purple Copper

Butterfly or its habitat were observed. Therefore, it is considered that the study area has no ecological

significance to the Purple Copper Butterfly in this instance.

Migratory Species

Several migratory species are expected to be frequent visitors to the wider area of the Oberon LGA and

environs. The EPBC Protective Matters report generated for the study area on the 6th of November, 2015

list 10 migratory species that may occur within the area including both forest/woodland and ‘aquatic’ or

wetland species. These species include the Fork-tailed Swift, White-throated Needletail, Rainbow Bee-

eater, Black-faced Monarch, Yellow Wagtail, Satin Flycatcher, Rufous Fantail as forest/woodland

species and the Cattle Egret, White Egret and the Latham’s Snipe as aquatic or wetland species. None of

the above species were recorded during the field assessment phase of the study area although a number

of migratory species are expected to occur periodically. Nonetheless, the proposed quarrying operations

is unlikely to have a significant effect on any of the above migratory species of avifauna or their

habitats. Referral of this ecological/biodiversity report to the Federal government’s Department of

Environment is not necessary as the proposed quarrying of the proposed extension area and associated

works would be inconsequential to all of the above species of avifauna.

Key Threatening Processes (KTP)

In addition to the relevant KTPs outlined in the Noxious Weeds section of this biodiversity impact

assessment report, there are several KTP relating to animals that are also relevant; these additional KTP

include inter alia the Predation by the European Fox Vulpes vulpes, Predation by the Feral Cat Felis

cattus and Competition from Feral honeybees Apis mellifera as ‘Key Threatening Processes’ in

Schedule 3 of the TSC Act. These and other key threatening processes were all considered during this

ecological assessment. Additional Key Threatening Processes listed under Schedule 3 of the TSC Act

include:

Clearing of native vegetation,

Removal of dead wood and dead trees,

Loss of hollow-bearing trees,

Invasion and establishment of exotic vines and scramblers (eg. Morning Glory, Bridal Creeper),

Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses (eg. Kikuyu Grass, Rhodes

Grass, African Lovegrass, Vasey Grass, Paspalum).



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5 DISCUSSION

5.1 WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & HABITAT FRAGMENTATION

There are no formally designated “wildlife corridors” present within or adjacent to the study area. This

is manifested in Figures 2 and 3 which indicate the degree of habitat fragmentation, the isolation of the

two main areas of remnant vegetation that are surrounded by cleared open pastures and the high degree

of clearing that have isolated these two areas of remnant vegetation. There are no substantial native

vegetation links within or adjacent to the study area including the two main areas of remnant vegetation.

The area to the west of the study area is the Essington State Forest which is a softwood pine forest and it

is not considered to be an area of habitat per se but a large tract of land that is dominated by exotic

arborescent vegetation and thus has very limited habitat values to Australian wildlife or other Australian

biota. Although there are no significant wildlife corridor opportunities present within the study area, the

various areas of remnant vegetation and clumps or groves of trees still have wildlife habitat value as

demonstrated with the recording of the Gang-gang Cockatoo and the Scarlet Robin within the study

area. The proposed extension would result in the removal of vegetation along the western side of

Remnant Vegetation Area #1 and the north-western periphery of Remnant Vegetation Area #2.

Both of these areas of remnant vegetation would still contain some trees. However, to offset

impacts on these two areas of remnant vegetation, it is possible to retain and expand and connect

other remnant vegetation areas outside of the Project Site Boundary for biodiversity offsetting

purposes if required.

Nonetheless, the proposal would not result in the severing of any wildlife corridors at any location

within the study area or cause habitat fragmentation impacts to a significant degree than already exists.

The proposal would not have any significant effects on the movement of fauna species or seed

propagules within the locality and would not significantly impact on populations or flora or fauna to a

significant degree than already exists or impact any significant wildlife habitat values in the area.

5.2 LOCALLY SIGNIFICANT SPECIES:

In addition to the recording of the two threatened species of avians within the study area i.e. the Gang-

gang Cockatoo and the Scarlet Robin, locally significant species were also recorded including the

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, White-winged Chough, Little Falcon, Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Forest

Wombat. The observed burrow of the Forest Wombat is located outside of the proposed quarry

extension area (Figure 3). All of the above locally significant species would still occur or forage within

the study area during the progressive quarry operations throughout the study area.

6 CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Two threatened species were recorded during the field assessments of the study area. These threatened

species are the Scarlet Robin (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995) and the Gang-

gang Cockatoo (Schedule 2, Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995). The Purple Copper Butterfly

(and its associated food plant Black Thorn Bursaria spinosa ssp lasiophylla) was also surveyed and its

habitat (presence or absence) sought and considered, however neither were recorded either within the

proposed extension area or the wider study area. In addition to the two threatened species of fauna

recorded several locally significant fauna were also recorded and include the Yellow-tailed Black

Cockatoo, White-winged Chough, Little Falcon, Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Forest Wombat. No

threatened species of flora were recorded and none are expected to occur due to the high degree of

disturbance to the study area including the decimation of the understorey vegetation within the two large

areas of remnant vegetation. All of the above locally significant species would still occur or forage

within the study area during the progressive quarry operations throughout the study area. No ROTAPs

(Rare Or Threatened Australian Plants) were recorded within the study area. A seven part test of



Report No.930/01


significance under section 5A of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 has been applied

to several threatened species of fauna based on the species recorded or to other species considered to be

relevant.


Conservation Act, 1995 are also present within the Oberon CMA subregion. These endangered

ecological communities known or expected to occur include:

White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland-endangered ecological community,

Tableland Basalt Forest in the Sydney Basin and South Eastern Highlands Bioregions-

endangered ecological community,

Tablelands Snow Gum, Black Sallee, Candlebark and Ribbon Gum Grassy Woodland in the

South Eastern Highlands, Sydney Basin, South East Corner and NSW South Western Slopes

Bioregions-endangered ecological community,

Montane Peatlands and Swamps of the New England Tableland, NSW North Coast, Sydney

Basin, South East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian Alps bioregions-endangered

ecological community.

One Commonwealth listed ecological community described under the Environment Protection &

Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC) is also known for the Oberon LGA this ecological

community being White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodlands and derived native

grasslands-critically endangered ecological community.


ecological community were found to be present within the proposed extension area or within the wider

study area. The remnant vegetation present within the proposed extension area was found to be

dominated by the Narrow-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata and the Mountain Gum Eucalyptus

dalrympleana ssp dalrympleana. This vegetation community is considered to be Montane Woodland a

vegetation community common within the wider locality of the study area and the environs of Oberon.

In relation to SEPP-44 (Koala Habitat Protection), the study area does not qualify as ‘potential Koala

habitat’ under the terms of SEPP-44 due to the lack of food trees listed in Schedule 2 of SEPP-44. None

of the tree species present within the study area is listed as designated Koala food trees under SEPP-44

(Koala Habitat Protection).

The proposed quarry extension would not result in the severing of any wildlife corridors or cause habitat

fragmentation impacts to a significant degree than already exists. The proposal would not have any

significant effects on the movement of fauna species or seed propagules within the locality and would

not significantly impact on populations or flora or fauna or to impact on any significant wildlife habitat

values in the area.

The proposed quarry extension operations would not spread the noxious weed species present on-site

including the Blackberry Rubus fruticosus and Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis. These weed species

are classified as Class 4 species under the Noxious Weeds Act, 1993 and would be managed by the

proponents.

It is concluded that the proposed quarry extension would not have a significant effect on threatened

species, populations or endangered ecological communities as described under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995 and the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999

including the Scarlet Robin and the Gang-gang Cockatoo and that the proposal would not result in the

significant loss of biodiversity characteristics of the study area (or the vicinity) or their habitats,

providing the recommendations of the biodiversity assessment are fully implemented.



Report No.930/01


Finally, the proposed quarry extension and associated works would not have a significant effect on any

matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) therefore referral of this ecological/biodiversity

report to the Federal government’s Department of Environment is not necessary as the proposal would

be minor or inconsequential to any matters of National Environmental Significance.

RECOMMENDATIONS

All site characteristics should be retained as much as possible and avoid damage to native trees where

possible outside of the proposed extension area and avoidance is an important consideration. To

minimise the ecological and environmental impacts of the proposed quarry extension and associated

works, the following recommendations are made in relation to the proposal:

Recommendation No. 1. That vegetation clearing and removal be minimised and limited to the

proposed extension area; and that no accidental damage to retained vegetation occurs within both

Remnant Vegetation Areas #1 and #2. Exclusion tape and signage should be installed on-site to ensure

that machinery does not enter into the vegetated areas to be retained that may otherwise damage the

remaining vegetation not intended for clearing.

Recommendation No. 2. To offset the impacts on the two areas of remnant vegetation that would

be disturbed as a result of the proposed quarry extension, it is recommended to retain, expand and

connect other remnant vegetation areas outside of the Project Site Boundary for biodiversity offsetting

purposes.

Recommendation No. 3. Avoid stockpiling of logs and trees that may otherwise create havens

for foxes, rabbits and feral cats. Cleared vegetation should be spread and not stockpiled to avoid creating

feral animal havens.

Recommendation No. 4. That an erosion and sediment control plan be developed to ensure that

all sediments, erosional impacts and weed propagules are contained within the study area so as to not to

impact on nearby natural systems including Captain Kings Creek.



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Report No.930/01


APPENDIX 1

LIST OF FLORA & FAUNA RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

FAUNA RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

Page 1 of 2

FAUNA GROUP COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

AVIANS Crimson Rosella Platycerus elegans

Eastern Rosella Platycerus eximius

Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus

White Cockatoo Cacatua galerita

Galah Cacatua roseicapilla

Gang Gang Cockatoo

(Schedule 2, Threatened

Species Conservation Act,

1995)

Callocephalon fimbriatum

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

(locally significant)

Calyptorhynchus funereus

Yellow-faced Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops

Eastern Spinebill Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris

Noisy Friarbird Philemon corniculatus

Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa

Scarlet Robin (Schedule 2,

Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995)

Petroica boodang

White-throated Tree-creeper Cormobates leucophaea

Eastern Silvereye Zosterops lateralis

Striated Thornbill Acanthiza lineata

Mistletoebird Dicaeum hirundinaceum

Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis

Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus

Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus

Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae

Pied Butcherbird Cracticus nigrogularis

Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus



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FAUNA RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY AREA (Cont’d)

Page 2 of 2

FAUNA GROUP COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

Australian Raven Corvus coronoides

Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen

Pied Currawong Strepera graculina

White-winged Chough (locally

significant)

Corcorax melanorhamphos

Laughing Kookaburra Darcela novaeguinea

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena

Little Falcon (locally

significant)

Falco longipennis

Wedge-tailed Eagle (locally

significant)

Aquila audax

Boobook Owl Ninox novaeseelandiae

Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides

Wood Duck Chenonetta jubata

Pacific Black Duck Anus superciliosa

White-faced Heron Ardea novaehollandiae

Australian Grebe Tachybaptus novaehollandiae

MAMMALIANS Forest Wombat Vombatus ursinus

Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus

Brush-tailed Possum Trichosurus vulpecular

Yellow-footed Antechinus Antechinus flavipes

Little Forest Bat Vespadelus vulturnis

White-striped Freetail (Mastiff)

Bat

Nyctinomus australis

Gould’s Wattle Bat Chalinolobus gouldii

European Fox (exotic) Vulpes vulpes

European Rabbit (exotic) Oryctolagus cuniculus

AMPHIBIANS Verreaux’s Frog Litoria verreauxi

Peron’s Tree Frog Litoria peroni

Common Froglet Crinia signifera

Spotted Grass Frog Limnodynastes tasmaniensis



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FLORA RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

Page 2 of 2

FAMILY NAME COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

Myrtaceae Narrow-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata

Broad-leaved Peppermint Eucalyptus dives

Mountain Gum Eucalyptus dalrympleana ssp

dalrympleana

Red Stringybark Eucalyptus macrorhyncha

Mimosoideae Green Wattle Acacia irrorata

Coast Myall Acacia binervia

Campanulaceae Bluebell Wahlenbergia communis

Fabaceae False Sarsaparilla Hardenbergia violacea

Ranunculaceae Clematis Clematis aristida

Asteraceae Fireweed (exotic) Senecio madagascariensis

Fleabane Conyza bonariensis

Phytolaccaceae Inkweed Phytolacca octandra

Rosaceae Blackberry (exotic) Rubus fruticosus

Poaceae Hedgehog Grass Echinopogon ovatus

Poa Poa sieberiana

Dennstaedtiaceae Bracken Fern Pteridium esculentum



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APPENDIX 2

SEVEN PART TESTS OF SIGNIFICANCE

Section 5A of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 ‘Significant effect on threatened

species, populations and endangered ecological communities, or their habitats’.

(1) For the purposes of this Act and, in particular, in the administration of

Sections 78A, 79B, 79C, 111 and 112, the following must be taken into account in

deciding whether there is likely to be a significant effect on threatened species,

populations or endangered ecological communities, or their habitats:

(a) each of the factors listed in subsection (2)

(b) any assessment guidelines.

(2) The following factors must be taken into account in making a determination under

this section:



Report No.930/01


SCARLET ROBIN Petroica boodang

(a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect

on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at

risk of extinction,

No, although the Scarlet Robin was recorded during the field assessment phase within Remnant

Vegetation Area #2, however, it is expected that the species would forage and possibly breed within all

larger remnant areas within the wider study area and throughout the vicinity generally. Therefore, the

proposal and associated works would not have an adverse effect on the life-cycle of the Scarlet Robin to

such an extent that a viable local population would be placed at risk of localised extinction.

(b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an

adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a

viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No, there are no endangered populations of the Scarlet Robin at this stage.

(c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological

community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local

occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such

that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No, the Scarlet Robin is a species in its own right and does not constitute an endangered ecological

community. Therefore this section of the Seven Part Test of Significance is not applicable.

(d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed,

and

No significant area habitat for the Scarlet Robin would be removed or modified as a result of the

proposal as there are other suitable habitat present in adjacent areas to the impact zone.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat

as a result of the proposed action, and

No significant area of habitat would be likely to become further fragmented or isolated from other areas

of habitat for the Scarlet Robin as a result of the proposed quarrying operations.

Much of the study area is already in a fragmented and isolated ecological state being situated in

primarily intensive farming land namely cattle grazing.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term

survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality,



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The proposal would not result in the significant removal, modification, fragmentation or isolation of

habitat of the Scarlet Robin to a significant degree than already exists.

(e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly

or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat for the Scarlet Robin has at this stage.

(f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or

threat abatement plan,

No, there are no recovery plans or threat abatement plans pertaining to Scarlet Robin at this stage.

Therefore, the proposed action would not contravene any recovery or threat abatement plans.

(g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to

result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

No, the proposal would not constitute or form part of a key threatening process, or is likely to

significantly result in the operation of, or result in the increase of a key threatening process to a

significant degree. Clearing of native vegetation and Removal of dead wood and dead trees are relevant

key threatening processes that may have an impact on the Scarlet Robin; other threats generally consists

of predation on nests of the Scarlet Robin by Currawongs.



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FLAME ROBIN Petroica phoenicea



risk of extinction,

No, the Flame Robin was not recorded during the field assessment phase however, it is expected that the

species would forage within all larger remnant areas within the wider locality and throughout the

vicinity generally where woodlands occur. Therefore, the proposal and associated works would not have

an adverse effect on the life-cycle of the Flame Robin to such an extent that a viable local population

would be placed at risk of localised extinction.




No, there are no endangered populations of the Flame Robin at this stage.







No, the Scarlet Robin is a species in its own right and does not constitute an endangered ecological




and

No significant area habitat for the Flame Robin would be removed or modified as a result of the

proposal as there are other suitable habitat present in nearby areas.




of habitat for the Flame Robin as a result of the proposed quarrying operations.

Much of the study area is already in a fragmented and isolated ecological state being situated in

primarily intensive farming land namely cattle grazing.



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habitat of the Flame Robin to a significant degree than already exists.


or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat for the Flame Robin has at this stage.



No, there are no recovery plans or threat abatement plans pertaining to Flame Robin at this stage.







key threatening processes that may have an impact on the Flame Robin.



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VARIED SITTELLA Daphoenositta chrysoptera



risk of extinction,

No, the Varied Sittella was not recorded within the study area during the field assessment phase.

Therefore, the proposal and associated works is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life-cycle of

the species to such an extent that a viable local population would be placed at risk of localised

extinction.




There are no endangered populations of the Varied Sittella at this stage.







The Varied Sittella is a species in its own right and does not constitute an endangered ecological




and

No significant area habitat for the Varied Sittella would be removed or modified as a result of the

proposal although there may be suitable habitat present in adjacent areas in the vicinity of the study area.




of habitat for the Varied Sittella as a result of the proposal. Much of the study area is already in a

fragmented and isolated ecological state being situated in primarily intensive farming land namely from

beef cattle production.




habitat of the Varied Sittella to a significant degree than already exists.



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or indirectly),

No, no critical habitat for the Varied Sittella has at this stage been designated to the species.



No, there are no recovery plans or threat abatement plans pertaining to Varied Sittella at this stage.







key threatening processes that may have an impact on the Varied Sittella.



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GANG-GANG COCKATOO Callocephalon fimbriatum



risk of extinction,

No, the Gang-gang Cockatoo would not be significantly affected by the proposal to the extent that

would otherwise place the species at risk of localised extinction. No significant area of habitat would be

removed and that the proposal would not have an adverse effect on any stage of the life-cycle of the

Gang-gang Cockatoo that would place the species at risk of localised extinction.




No, there is no endangered population of the Gang-gang Cockatoo present within the Oberon Local

Government Area. The nearest endangered population of the species is the Hornsby-Ku-ring Gai Local

Government Area’s endangered population of the Gang-gang Cockatoo. This endangered population has

no ecological affiliation with the Oberon LGA.





Not applicable.



Not applicable.



and

No significant area of habitat of the Gang-gang Cockatoo would be removed or modified as a result of

the proposal. There is no significant area of habitat present within the study area for the species as

although the Gang-gang Cockatoo was recorded as a small flock of 8 individuals within the study area,

the species forages widely in the locality from one area to another on a regular basis.



No, the study area and its remnant vegetation are already in a fragmented and isolated state. The

proposal would not further fragment or isolate the site from other bulk forests to a significant degree

than already exists and that the species can easily fly from one fragmented area to another.



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No significant area of habitat would be removed or impacted in this instance as the species forages

widely in the locality and forages from one area of bushland to another on a regular basis. The Gang-

gang Cockatoo appears to be a common species within the Oberon LGA at this stage.


or indirectly),

No, no area of habitat of the Gang-gang Cockatoo has been identified as critical habitat at this stage.



No, there are no recovery plans or threat abatement plans pertaining to the Gang-gang Cockatoo at this

stage. Therefore, the proposed action would not contravene of recovery or threat abatement plans.



No, land clearing or removal of native vegetation may in some circumstances trigger a key threatening

process, however there is no significant area of habitat for the Gang-gang Cockatoo present within the

study area that would be affected by the proposal.



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SQUARE-TAILED KITE Lophoictinia isura



risk of extinction,

No, the proposed extension to the existing quarry would not have an adverse effect on the life cycle of

the Square-tailed Kite to the extent that would place the species at risk of localised extinction. Although

the Square-tailed Kite is likely to forage within the remnant vegetation areas, there would be no

significant removal of any significant amount of habitat, no removal of nesting or roosting sites and no

removal of prey-food items or their habitat that the species may depend upon. The Square-tailed Kite

has a very large home-range and forages widely over large tracts of open forests and woodlands (pers

obs). The Square-tailed Kite is regularly observed within the region. The limited amount of vegetation to

be removed as a result of the proposal would be inconsequential to the Square-tailed Kite and that the

species would continue to persist in the area following the expansion of the quarry and that the local

viable population of the species is unlikely to be placed at risk of extinction.

(b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse

effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable

local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No, there are no endangered populations of the Square-tailed Kite listed at this stage.





Not applicable.



Not applicable.



and

No significant area of Square-tailed Kite foraging habitat would be removed and that there are no

nesting sites present within the study area.



No, the study area is already fragmented and isolated from other bulk forests in the locality. The Square-

tailed Kite is also highly capable to forage from within one parcel of remnant vegetation to another with

ease.



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There are no significantly important habitat characteristics present within the study area for the Square-

tailed Kite. However, it is expected that the broader locality may have importance to the species as the

Square-tailed Kite requires large tracts of bulk open forests and woodland for survival.


or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat for the Square-tailed Kite at this stage.



No, there are no recovery or threat abatement plans currently adopted for the Square-tailed Kite at this

stage.

(g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening processor is likely to result

in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

No, as the proposal would not constitute ‘clearing of native vegetation’ KTP in this instance. Moreover,

the proposal would not trigger or exacerbate any other relevant key threatening processes.



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LITTLE EAGLE Hieraaetus morphnoides



risk of extinction,

No, the proposal would not have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the Little Eagle to the extent that

would place the species at risk of localised extinction. The Little Eagle was not recorded during the field

assessment phase although a pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles were observed on several occasions within the

study area and is the likely dominant raptor in the area. There would be no significant removal of any

significant amount of habitat, no removal of nesting or roosting sites and no removal of prey-food items

or their habitat that the species may depend upon. The limited amount of vegetation to be removed as a

result of the proposal in comparison to the amount of foraging habitat required by the species, would be

inconsequential to the Little Eagle and that the species would continue to persist in the area following

the expansion of the quarry and associated works and that the local viable population of the Little Eagle

(if present) is unlikely to be placed at risk of extinction.

(b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse

effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable

local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No, there are no endangered populations of the Little Eagle listed at this stage.









and

No significant area of Little Eagle foraging habitat would be removed and that there are no nesting sites

present within the proposed quarry extension area.



No, the study area is already fragmented and isolated from other bulk forests in the locality. The

removal of vegetation within the study area to accommodate the proposal is relatively minor and would

not cause significant habitat fragmentation or isolation to a significantly higher degree than already

exists. The Little Eagle is also highly capable to forage from within one parcel of remnant vegetation to

another with ease however the species is more likely to hunt in open ground but nest within trees within

remnant vegetation.



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There are no significantly important habitat characteristics present within the study area for the Little

Eagle that would be removed. The species is more likely to obtain its prey-food from the margins of the

remnant and in open areas namely European Rabbits. However, it is expected that the broader locality

would be of importance to the species as the Little Eagle requires large tracts of bulk woodland and open

areas for survival.


or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat for the Little Eagle at this stage.



No, there are no recovery or threat abatement plans currently adopted for the Little Eagle at this stage.

(g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening processor is likely to result

in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

No, as the proposal would not constitute ‘clearing of native vegetation’ KTP in this instance. Moreover,

the proposal would not trigger or exacerbate any other relevant key threatening processes. The main

threats to the Little Eagle are clearing and degradation of its breeding and foraging habitat as well as

possibly secondary poisoning from the rabbit poison pindone.



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BARKING OWL Ninox connivens



risk of extinction,

No, the proposal would not have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the Barking Owl to the extent that

would place the species at risk of localised extinction. There would be no significant removal of habitat,

no removal of nesting or roosting sites and no significant removal of prey-food items or their habitat.

The Barking Owl was not recorded during the field assessment phase, although the species may occur at

any time. If the Barking Owl does actually forage within the study area, then it is likely to forage within

the canopy trees within the remnant vegetation areas on an ad hoc basis only. However, the species

would still forage within the locality of the site following the expansion to the quarry.




No, there are no endangered populations of the Barking Owl present within the Oberon Local

Government Area.





Not applicable as the Barking Owl is a species in its own right and does not constitute an ecological

community per se.



Not applicable as above.



and

No significant area of Barking Owl habitat would be removed and there are no roosting sites present

within the study area. The species was not recorded during the night assessment phase.



No, the study area is already fragmented and isolated from other bulk woodlands and forests in the

locality. The proposed quarry expansion would not cause significant habitat fragmentation or isolation to

a significantly greater state than already exists. The Barking Owl is also capable to forage from within

one parcel of remnant vegetation to another with ease.



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There are no significant important habitat characteristics present within the study area for the Barking

Owl. However, it is expected that the broader locality may have importance to the species as the Barking

Owl requires large bulk open forests for survival.


or indirectly),

No, no area of habitat of the Barking Owl has been identified as critical habitat under the terms of the

Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 or the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection &

Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 at this stage as the species is not eligible for listing for critical

habitat status as the species is not listed as an endangered species.



A Recovery Plan for the Barking Owl (large forest owls) has been prepared. The proposal would not be

inconsistent with the Recovery Plan for the species and large forest owls generally.



No, as the proposal would not constitute ‘clearing of native vegetation’ KTP in this instance. Other key

threatening processes include continued loss of native hollow bearing trees and removal of course

woody debris due to fire wood harvesting practices and competition from feral honeybees. However, the

proposal would not trigger or exacerbate any of the above key threatening processes to affect the

Barking Owl or its habitat.



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GREY-HEADED FLYING FOX Pteropus poliocephalus



risk of extinction,

No, the life cycle of the Grey-headed Flying Fox is unlikely to be disrupted by the proposal to the extent

that it would have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of

the species would likely to be placed at risk of extinction. The Grey-headed Flying Fox is highly likely

to forage widely within the study area as well as in the locality and the bioregion generally during

inflorescence of the various eucalypts during the flowering period of each respective tree species.

However, the study area does not contain suitable roosting habitat of the Grey-headed Flying Fox as the

site is too exposed and contains no suitable roosting sites for the species.




There is no currently listed “endangered population” of the Grey-headed Flying Fox under the terms of

the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 at this stage.



The Grey-headed Flying Fox is not an endangered or critically endangered ecological community,

therefore this section does not apply to the species.





The Grey-headed Flying Fox is not an endangered or critically endangered ecological community,

therefore this section does not apply to the species.



and

There would be relatively minor removal of Grey-headed Flying Fox foraging habitat as a result of the

proposal as it would be necessary to remove some trees to accommodate the quarry expansion.

However, all of the potential food trees are very common and abundant within the area (personal

observation). The Grey-headed Flying Fox is likely to forage very widely within the districts open forest

and woodlands.





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No, the Grey-headed Flying Fox is capable of flying from one tree to another, across roads, paddocks,

bare open ground or remnant vegetation. The species easily disperses by flight from one area to another.



The study area has no significant importance as a potential roosting site for the Grey-headed Flying Fox.

The study area’s potential food plants are locally significant food trees, however, the potential food trees

are abundant within the region and that the proposal would not have an effect on the long-term survival

of the species in the locality.


or indirectly),

No critical habitat has been formally designated to the species at this stage.



The proposal would be consistent with the objectives of the recovery plan and any threat abatement

plans for the Grey-headed Flying Fox.



Clearing of native vegetation and high frequency fires are formally declared as key threatening

processes under the terms of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 that applies to the Grey-

headed Flying Fox. However, the proposal would not trigger or exacerbate any of the above key

threatening processes.



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GREATER BROAD-NOSED BAT Scoteanax rueppellii



risk of extinction,

No, the life cycle of the Greater Broad-nosed Bat is not likely to be adversely affected by the proposal as

the potential foraging habitat (the Captain Kings Creek) and any potential roosting areas including tree

hollows located outside of the impact area would be retained. Therefore, there is no risk of a localised

extinction of a viable population of the species as a result of the proposal.




No, there are no “endangered populations” declared for the Greater Broad-nosed Bat at this stage under

the terms of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.



Not applicable.





Not applicable.



and

No significant area of habitat of the Greater Broad-nosed Bat would be removed or modified as a result

of the proposal. There would be no removal of roosting or significant foraging habitat of the species.



No, as no area of habitat would be fragmented or isolated as a result of the proposal. The species habitat

is already highly fragmented in the area.



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There is no significant or important area of habitat of the Greater Broad-nosed Bat present throughout

most of the study area with the exception of the Captain Kings Creek area. This area will not be

impacted by the proposal in this instance.


or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat pertaining to the Greater Broad-nosed Bat at this stage.



There are no current recovery plans or threat abatement plans for the Greater Broad-nosed Bat on a state

or federal context.



No, the clearing of native vegetation and high frequency fires are expected to be relevant key

threatening processes applicable to the Greater Broad-nosed Bat. However, the proposal would not

constitute gross clearing of native vegetation and would not result in the increase in the frequency of

fires and is unlikely to trigger any other key threatening processes.



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SOUTHERN MYOTIS Myotis macropus



risk of extinction,

No, the primary habitat areas for the Southern Myotis are the open dams and creek-line precincts within

the wider study area; these habitat areas would be retained and unaffected by the proposal. Therefore,

the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the Southern Myotis to the extent

that a local viable population of the species would be placed at risk of extinction.




There are no endangered populations of the Southern Myotis at this stage under either state or federal

legislation.



Not applicable.



Not applicable



Also not applicable as the Southern Myotis as it is a species in its own right and does not constitute an

ecological community per se.



and

No significant area of habitat of the species would be removed or modified should the proposal proceed.

No significant area of foraging habitat would be removed and no potential roosting habitat would be

significantly affected by the proposal. The specie roosts in caves, tunnels, mine shafts etc. The roosting

sites are absent from the study area.



No, as the Southern Myotis is a flying mammal and can easily disperse throughout the locality. The

proposed quarry extension would not significantly fragment or isolate any areas of habitat pertaining to

the species to a significantly higher degree than already exists.



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There is no significant area or important area habitat of the Southern Myotis present within the study

area. The main potential foraging habitat areas are the open dams and creek-lines present within the

wider area only.


or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat declared for the Southern Myotis either in state or federal

spheres at this stage.



No recovery or threat abatement plans have been developed for the Southern Myotis at this stage.



Clearing operations in areas of native vegetation and high frequency fires are likely to be relevant key

threatening processes applicable to the habitat of the Southern Myotis. However, the proposal would not

result in gross clearing of habitat of the species and that the proposal would not result in an increase in

the frequency of fires in the locality.



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EASTERN BENTWING BAT Miniopterus schreibersii



risk of extinction,

No, the life cycle of the Eastern Bentwing Bat is not likely to be adversely affected by the proposal. The

species was not recorded during the field surveys of the study area. The majority of the wider study area

(and environs) is considered to be potential foraging habitat to the species only, however in regards to

potential roosting habitat, there is no roosting habitat present as the species tends to roost in caves,

tunnels etc where these roosting habitat features are absent from the study area. It is unlikely that a

localised viable population of the Eastern Bentwing Bat would be placed at risk of extinction as a result

of the proposed quarry extension.




No, there are no “endangered populations” declared for the Eastern Bentwing Bat under the terms of the

Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 at this stage.



The Eastern Bentwing Bat is a species in its own right and does not constitute a community. This section

of the Significance Test does not apply to the Eastern Bentwing Bat.





The Eastern Bentwing Bat is a species in its own right and does not constitute a community. This section

of the Significance Test also does not apply to the Eastern Bentwing Bat.



and

No significant area of habitat of the species would be removed or modified as a result of the proposed

quarry extension or associated works. No significant area of foraging habitat would be removed and no

potential roosting habitat would be affected.



No, as the species as the species is a flying mammal and can easily disperse throughout the locality. The

proposal would not fragment or isolate any areas of habitat pertaining to the species.



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There is no significant area or important area habitat of the Eastern Bentwing Bat present within the

study area.

(e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either

directly or indirectly),

No, there is no designated critical habitat pertaining to the Eastern Bentwing Bat at this stage.



There are no recovery plans or threat abatement plans for the Eastern Bentwing Bat at this stage either

on a state or federal context.



No, the clearing of native vegetation and high frequency fires are expected to be relevant key

threatening processes applicable to the Eastern Bentwing Bat. However, the proposal would not

constitute significant clearing of native vegetation habitat of the species in this context and would not

result in the increase in the frequency of fires.



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SQUIRREL GLIDER Petaurus norfolcensis



risk of extinction,

No, the proposal is unlikely to have a significant effect on the Squirrel Glider to such an extent to have

an adverse effect on the life-cycle on the Squirrel Glider that may result in the localised extinction of a

local viable population of the Squirrel Glider. Attempts were made to trap the species within the

remnant vegetation areas, however without success. The Squirrel Glider is unlikely to be able to enter

the area of remnant vegetation due to isolated status of the site. The species is likely to occur in other

areas in the vicinity where large bulk forests and woodlands occur.




No, there are no endangered populations of the Squirrel Glider present within the Oberon Local

Government Area at this stage. The nearest endangered population of the Squirrel Glider to the study

area is the population of the species on the Barrenjoey Peninsula within the Pittwater Local Government

Area in Sydney.



The Squirrel Glider is a species in its own right and does not constitute an endangered ecological

community. Therefore this section of the Seven Part Test of Significance does not apply to the species.


occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

The Squirrel Glider is a species in its own right and does not constitute an endangered ecological

community. This section of the Seven Part Test of Significance also does not apply to the species.



As above.



The proposal is unlikely to result in the removal or modification of habitat of the Squirrel Glider as the

study area is already isolated and the species would not be able to enter the remnants. There would be no

modification of the species habitat as a result of the proposal as it is considered that the species ‘habitat’

within the study areas is no longer viable habitat to the Squirrel Glider.





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No, as the study area is already isolated and fragmented from other bulk open forest and woodlands

areas.



There is no important habitat present within the study area for the Squirrel Glider as the species would

not be able to be sustained within the study area due to the isolated nature of the site.


or indirectly),

No, as there has been no critical habitat formally identified or attributed to the Squirrel Glider at this

stage. Therefore the proposal would not have an adverse effect on critical habitat either directly or

indirectly.



There are no recovery or threat abatement plans pertaining to the Squirrel Glider at this stage even

though a Recovery Plan is being prepared for the Squirrel Glider.



No, clearing of native vegetation to accommodate the proposed works is not considered ‘clearing of

native vegetation’ key threatening process under the terms of the Threatened Species Conservation Act,

1995. ‘Predation by the European Red Fox and predation by the feral cat key threatening processes may

also be applicable, however the proposal would also not trigger these KTP in this instance.



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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Anthropogenic waste: Waste materials eg: dumped bricks, tyres, household rubbish, bottles

etc

Arboreal: Pertaining to trees

Arborescent: Tree-like in form or appearance.

Aural: Listening

Bassian: Fauna of temperate regions of Australian, generally the area from SE.

Queensland, eastern NSW, Victoria and SE. South Australia. Excluding

the tropical (Torresian) and arid zone (Eyrean) regions of Australia.

Benthic Fauna: Fauna (usually small invertebrates) living or inhabiting the Bottom of a

waterway, lake, river, creek etc

Biota: The flora and fauna of a given region.

Bioregional: A regional perspective of plant and animal assemblages.

Critical-weight

range fauna: Medium-size mammals that have been significantly

affected by European settlement and associated

introduction of carnivorous mammals viz: cat, fox and dog.

Many native mammals outside of this ‘critical-weight

range’ have not been affected by these introductions.

Detritivore: A feeder of detritus from decaying plants and animals (detritus).

EP&A Act: Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979.

EPBC Act: Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999.

Exotic: An introduced plant or animal not native or indigenous.

FM Act: Fisheries Management Act, 1994.

Indigenous: A native plant or animal to any given area.

Lek A temporary male territory for the sole purpose of attracting females.

Mesic

(cf: xeric): Plants that have a high degree of moisture content of the leaves.

Rainforest species are generally mesic.

Piscivorous: Fish-eating.

Raft line: Snagged or suspended debris in the canopy or foliage of trees after flooding or when water levels raise.

Rhizome: A horizontal underground stem or root.

Riffle: A length of waterway where water of shallow depth flows rapidly over

stones or river gravel and may produce a small rapid.

Riparian (vegetation): Vegetation occurring on the banks of a creek, river or stream.

ROTAP: ‘Rare Or Threatened Australian Plants’

Sap-site tree: An individual tree that is used by several fauna species to extract

phloem (sap/kino) from the cambium layer of selected tree species as a

food source. The Yellow-bellied Glider is one of the best known



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examples that extracts sap from selected tree species. Sap-site trees are

usually distinguished by characteristic ‘V’ shaped incisions into the

outer bark.

Scientific Committee: The scientific committee of persons appointed under the NSW

Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

Seral: An underdeveloped stage of a plant community or plant succession.

Sphere-of-influence: Environmental or biological factors outside of a given study site that

influence the biota within a study site.

Stag: Dead standing tree, frequently containing hollow limbs.

Sympatric: The ability of animals or plants having similar or near parallel

ecological requirements cohabiting with another related or similar

species within the same habitat.

Trap-Nights: The number of traps set per night in a given area. Eg: 20 traps set for

one night = 20 trap-nights.

TSC Act: NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.



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Documents

Appendix 8 - Oberon Council · Middle Creek Quarries Appendix 8 Report No.930/01 A8 Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd This Biodiversity Assessment provides a true and fair review