Shoalhaven Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Expansion ... · The geotechnical investigations are limited to the drilling of up to eight boreholes ranging in depth from 25 to 650 metres

Shoalhaven Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Expansion -

Geotechnical Investigations

Origin Energy

Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (Small Area)

IA193700 | 01

29 January 2019

Biodi versity D evel opment Assessment R eport

Origin Energ y

Biodiversity Development Assessment Report

i

Shoalhaven Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Expansion - Geotechnical Investigations

Project No: IA193700

Document Title: Biodiversity Development Assessment Report

Document No.: IA193700

Revision 01

Date: 29 January 2019

Client Name: Origin Energy

Project

Manager:

Mike Luger

Author: Jonathan Carr & Lauren Ascah

File Name: \\jacobs.com\ANZ\IE\Projects\04_Eastern\IA193700\Biodiversity\Geotech_BDAR\IA193700_Origin_Shoalhaven

Pumped Hydro_Geotech_BDAR_Final.docx

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Newcastle West NSW 2302 Australia

PO Box 2147 Dangar NSW 2309 Australia

T +61 2 4979 2600

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www.jacobs.com

© Copyright 2019 Jacobs Group (Australia) Pty Limited. The concepts and information contained in this document are the property of Jacobs. Use

or copying of this document in whole or in part without the written permission of Jacobs constitutes an infringement of copyright.

Limitation: This document has been prepared on behalf of, and for the exclusive use of Jacobs’ client, and is subject to, and issued in accordance with, the

provisions of the contract between Jacobs and the client. Jacobs accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for, or in respect of, any use of, or reliance

upon, this document by any third party.

Document history and status

Revision Date Description By Review Approved

Rev 0 17/01/2019 Draft report J.Carr C.Thomson C.Thomson

Rev 1 29/01/2019 Final J.Carr C.Thomson C.Thomson


ii

Contents

1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Background and project overview ...................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Purpose of this report ......................................................................................................................... 4

1.3 Assessment Methodology .................................................................................................................. 4

1.4 Sources of information........................................................................................................................ 4

1.5 Site context ......................................................................................................................................... 5

1.5.1 The existing scheme ........................................................................................................................... 5

1.5.2 Morton National Park .......................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.3 Surrounding landholdings ................................................................................................................... 6

2. Project Description ........................................................................................................................... 7

2.1 Investigation footprint ......................................................................................................................... 7

2.2 Proposed activities ........................................................................................................................... 11

2.2.2 Ancillary works .................................................................................................................................. 12

2.2.3 Access .............................................................................................................................................. 12

2.2.4 Duration and Timing ......................................................................................................................... 12

2.2.5 Disturbance Requirements and Environmental Management.......................................................... 12

3. Legislative context ......................................................................................................................... 13

3.1 NSW Planning Framework ............................................................................................................... 13

3.1.1 Critical State significant infrastructure .............................................................................................. 13

3.1.2 Application of other parts of EP&A Act ............................................................................................. 14

3.2 Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 .................................................................................................. 14

3.3 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 ............................................................................................... 14

3.4 Commonwealth referral requirements .............................................................................................. 15

4. Methodology ................................................................................................................................... 16

4.1 Small area assessment module ....................................................................................................... 16

4.2 Personnel ......................................................................................................................................... 16

4.3 Background research ....................................................................................................................... 16

4.4 Field survey timing ............................................................................................................................ 17

4.5 Stratification of native vegetation ..................................................................................................... 17

4.6 Assessment of vegetation zones ...................................................................................................... 17

4.7 Plot survey ........................................................................................................................................ 18

4.8 Assessing vegetation integrity .......................................................................................................... 19

4.9 Limitations ........................................................................................................................................ 20

5. Landscape context ......................................................................................................................... 21

5.1 IBRA Bioregions and sub-regions .................................................................................................... 21

5.2 BioNet NSW Landscapes (Mitchell landscapes) .............................................................................. 21

5.3 Rivers, streams and estuaries .......................................................................................................... 21

5.4 Wetlands ........................................................................................................................................... 21

5.5 Connectivity ...................................................................................................................................... 23

5.6 Areas of geological significance and soil hazard features ............................................................... 23


iii

5.7 Areas of outstanding biodiversity value ............................................................................................ 23

5.8 Native vegetation extent ................................................................................................................... 23

5.9 Patch sizes ....................................................................................................................................... 23

6. Native Vegetation ........................................................................................................................... 25

6.1 Plant Community Types and vegetation zones ................................................................................ 25

6.1.1 Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the foothills, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner Bioregion (PCT 1283) ........................... 26

6.1.2 Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and on sheltered slopes, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 1245) ................................................................................................ 27

6.1.3 Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal lowlands, southern Sydney

Basin Bioregion (PCT 838) ............................................................................................................... 29

6.1.4 River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple - River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of coastal lowlands,

southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion (PCT 1108) .......................... 30

6.2 Patch sizes ....................................................................................................................................... 32

6.3 Vegetation integrity results ............................................................................................................... 32

7. Habitat Suitability for Threatened Species .................................................................................. 35

7.1 Ecosystem Credit Species Assessment ........................................................................................... 35

7.2 Species Credit Species Assessment ................................................................................................ 36

7.3 Biodiversity Risk Weighting .............................................................................................................. 38

8. Matter of National Environmental Significance ........................................................................... 39

8.1 Threatened ecological communities ................................................................................................. 39

8.1.1 Illawarra and South Coast Lowland Forest and Woodland EPBC Listing ........................................ 39

8.1.2 MNES Assessment of Significance .................................................................................................. 39

8.2 Threatened species .......................................................................................................................... 41

8.3 Migratory species ............................................................................................................................. 42

9. Impact Assessment ........................................................................................................................ 44

9.1 Avoiding and minimising impacts on native vegetation and habitat ................................................. 44

9.3.1 Impacts on native vegetation and habitat ......................................................................................... 45

9.3.2 Prescribed biodiversity impacts ........................................................................................................ 49

10. Mitigating and management impacts on biodiversity values .................................................... 51

10.1 Native vegetation and flora habitat ................................................................................................... 51

10.2 Fauna habitat .................................................................................................................................... 51

10.3 Weeds and High Threat Weeds ....................................................................................................... 51

10.4 Water quality and hydrology ............................................................................................................. 52

10.5 Induction of Construction Personnel ................................................................................................ 52

11. Thresholds for the assessment and offsetting of impacts of development ............................ 53

11.1 Biodiversity Offset Scheme Threshold ............................................................................................. 53

11.2 Area Clearing Threshold................................................................................................................... 53

11.3 Impacts on a potential entity that are serious and irreversible impacts ........................................... 53

12. Summary and Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 54

13. References ...................................................................................................................................... 55

Appendix A. Likelihood of occurrence


iv

List of Figures

Figure 1.1: Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project location .....................................................................................2 Figure 1.2: Historic context ......................................................................................................................................3 Figure 2.1: Geotechnical locations ..........................................................................................................................8 Figure 5.1: Key Fish Habitat ................................................................................................................................. 22 Figure 5.2: Site Map ............................................................................................................................................. 24 Figure 6.1: Distribution of Plant Community Types, TECs and Vegetation Zones .............................................. 34


1

1. Introduction

1.1 Background and project overview

Origin Energy Eraring Pty Ltd (a subsidiary of Origin Energy Limited) (collectively, Origin) is the current

operator of the Shoalhaven Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) Scheme (the existing scheme). The

existing scheme is located in the NSW Southern Highlands, approximately 150km south east of Sydney

(refer to Figure 1.1). The existing scheme was commissioned in 1977 and currently has a generating

capacity of 240MW.

The existing scheme was designed and constructed as a dual-purpose system, having both pumped storage

generation capacity and inter-region water supply ability to move water from the Shoalhaven catchment to

the Sydney drinking water catchment. The existing scheme was designed in the late 1960’s and Stage 1

Phase 1 was constructed in the 1970’s including two generating / pumping units at Kangaroo Valley Power

Station and two generating units at the Bendeela Power Station.

The existing scheme was designed to allow for expansion and much of the required infrastructure needed

for duplicating the scheme is already in place.

Origin now proposes to almost double the electricity generation capacity of the existing scheme with the

Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project , which will provide approximately an additional 235MW of pumped

storage generation capacity. Origin has completed a Pre Feasibility Study and is now undertaking a

Feasibility Study for the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project.

To confirm the feasibility of the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project, geotechnical investigations are

required to provide confidence that the below ground structures can be constructed and operated safely and

cost effectively. The purpose of this report is to address Secretary’s Environmental Assessment

Requirements (SEARs) issued by New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment under section

5.16 of the EP&A Act for these geotechnical investigations.

The geotechnical investigations are limited to the drilling of up to eight boreholes ranging in depth from 25 to

650 metres below ground level and ancillary works to establish temporary access and works areas,

geotechnical testing, decommissioning and rehabilitation. The target locations of the geotechnical

investigations are located at the proposed locations of key components of the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion

Project or are aimed at facilitating improved understanding of identified higher risk ground conditions. In the

event that the project is deemed unfeasible, all geotechnical drilling locations would be decommissioned and

rehabilitated to match the existing land use and habitat values of each location. Some bores would be

converted to monitoring bores.

The geotechnical investigations are located in close proximity to the existing scheme and generally in areas

of prior disturbance as illustrated in Figure 1.2. Locations 1, 2, 7 and 8 and their access tracks are positioned

in currently cleared areas with evidence of prior ground disturbance. Locations 3, 4 and 5 are positioned

within areas previously cleared for agricultural purposes that have revegetated naturally following the

exclusion of agriculture. Location 6 is within an area that appears to be have been partially cleared and

subsequently naturally revegetated.

Clearing is only required for access and works areas at geotechnical investigation locations 3, 4, 5 and 6. As

such, the focus of the Biodiversity Development Assessment Report is on these locations. Background

information review and site visits have covered locations 1, 2, 7 and 8 and it is confirmed that the findings

and conclusions of this report apply to the completion of the geotechnical investigations at all locations.

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Figure 1.1 | Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion project location and layout

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1.2 Purpose of this report

This Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) has been prepared in accordance with the

Biodiversity Assessment Methodology 2017 (BAM), which is the central element of the NSW Biodiversity

Offsets Scheme established under Part 6 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act). The BDAR

identifies the biodiversity values on the land proposed for geotechnical investigations, outlines the initiatives

to avoid and minimise impacts to biodiversity as well as any offset requirements, where needed for

unavoidable residual impacts.The report is structured as follows:

Chapter 1 introduces geotechnical investigations and their context and describes the assessment

methodology;

Chapter 2 describes the proposed geotechnical investigations;

Chapter 3 summarises the relevant planning approval pathway and the associated environmental

assessment requirements for the geotechnical investigations;

Chapters 4 through to 8 document the methods and results of the assessment of the biodiversity values in

the study area by assessing the:

• Landscape features and site context in accordance with Chapter 4 of the BAM (results presented in

Chapter 5 of report);

• Presence of Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs), Plant Community Types (PCTs) and the

condition (vegetation integrity) of native vegetation in accordance with Chapter 5 of the BAM (results

presented in Chapter 6 of report);

• Habitat suitability for threatened species on the geotechnical investigation locations in accordance

with Chapter 6 of the BAM (results are presented in Chapter 7 of report); and

• Matters of National Significance for threatened species and ecological communities listed under the

EPBC Act presented in Chapter 8;

Chapter 9 and 10 identify potential impacts of the geotechnical investigations on biodiversity values and

outlines recommendations to avoid and minimise impacts;

Chapter 11 provides context to the size of the impact in relation to clearing thresholds set out in the BAM,

and hence applicability to the biodiversity offsets scheme; and

Chapter 12 provides a summary of the outcomes and conclusions of the assessment.

1.3 Assessment Methodology

The geotechnical investigations have been purposely designed to avoid and minimise disturbance to native

vegetation. This includes planning to work in existing cleared landscapes as much as possible. Where

clearing of native vegtetation is required, each temporary work area and planning for access will be relatively

small in area, hence the streamlined assessment module of the BAM (s.3.2 and Appendix A) is applicable

and has been addressed. The components of the geotechnical investigations meet the area limits criteria for

assessment as a small area, and are not located within the Biodiversity Values Map.

1.4 Sources of information

A background review of available online information was undertaken to identify the existing environment of

the geotechnical investigation locations within a search area of 10 kilometres. The review focussed on

database searches, relevant ecological reports pertaining to the study area, property boundaries, and

relevant GIS layers. The review was used to prepare a list of threatened species, populations and


5

communities as well as important habitat for migratory species with a likelihood of occurrence in the study

area and locality. The searches were also undertaken to identify if any Areas of Outstanding Biodiversity

Value were present.

The following database searches were performed:

• BioNet - the website for the Atlas of NSW Wildlife and OEH Threatened Species Profile Database;

• The federal Department of Environment and Energy Protected Matters Search Tool;

• The Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM) calculator predicted species function;

• NSW Department of Primary Industries freshwater threatened species distribution maps (DPI, 2016);

• OEH BioNet Vegetation Classification System database;

• The Federal Bureau of Meteorology’s Atlas of Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE);

• Department of Environment and Energy directory of important wetlands;

• Atlas of Living Australia;

• Register of Declared areas of Outstanding Biodiversity Value; and

• Key fish habitat maps (DPI, 2007)

Spatial data used in the assessment included,

• Available regional vegetation mapping: Shoalhaven Biometric VIS 3900 v2 (OEH, 2013) and Southeast

NSW Native Vegetation Classification and Mapping – SCIVI (VIS_ID 2230) (Tozer et al. 2010).

• Mitchell Landscapes Version V3.1 (OEH, 2016);

• Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) Version 7 (DoEE, 2017); and

• Waterways stream orders (DPI, 2013)

1.5 Site context

The geotechnical investigations for the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project would be undertaken in the

NSW Southern Highlands, approximately 150 km south east of Sydney within the Shoalhaven Local

Government Area (Refer to Figure 1.1).

The geotechnical investigations are proposed in land owned by WaterNSW associated with the existing

Kangaroo Valley and Bendeela Power Stations and water transfer operations (Refer to Figure 1.1).

WaterNSW land includes land either side of the existing surface pipeline and surge tank at the top of the

plateau and land between Jacks Corner Road and Lake Yarrunga.

Access to geotechnical investigation locations on the plateau would be required via existing access tracks

through the Morton National Park.

The major features of the area surrounding the geotechnical investigations include:

• The existing scheme;

• Morton National Park; and

• Rural landholdings.

1.5.1 The existing scheme

The existing Shoalhaven Scheme comprises the Fitzroy Falls reservoir, Fitzroy Falls canal, Kangaroo

Pipeline, Kangaroo Valley Power Station, Bendeela Pondage, Bendeela Pipeline, Bendeela Power Station,

Tallowa Dam (Lake Yarrunga). The geotechnical investigations would require access through land

associated with the existing scheme but would not lead to any cumulative or ongoing impacts affecting the

scheme or the environment.


6

1.5.2 Morton National Park

The Morton and Budawang National Parks together comprise an area of over 190,000 hectares on the

eastern escarpment of the Southern Tablelands. The park stretches from Bundanoon in the north to

southeast of Braidwood and covers a diverse, rugged and scenically magnificent landscape. The Morton

National Park is managed in accordance with the Morton and Budawang National Parks Plan of

Management (NSW NPWS, 2001). This document recognises the important landscape, geology,

biodiversity, heritage and wilderness values of the Morton National Park. The document also recognises

existing uses associated with water and electricity infrastructure.

The geotechnical investigations would require access via short sections of existing access tracks

established as part of the construction of the existing Shoalhaven Scheme. No impacts to the Morton

National Park will result from the geotechnical investigations.

1.5.3 Surrounding landholdings

There are several communities and townships within the zone of influence of the Shoalhaven Hydro

Expansion Project. These include Barrengarry and Kangaroo Valley, Fitzroy Falls, Wildes Meadow, Avoca

and Burrawang. The scale of the geotechnical investigations would not impact any of these population

centres.

Landholdings surrounding the geotechnical investigation areas are rural in nature consisting of isolated

dwellings. The Scots Collage Glengarry Campus is located approximately 500 metres to the west of the

geotechnical investigations.


7

2. Project Description

2.1 Investigation footprint

The geotechnical investigations includes eight cored borehole locations as described in Table 2.1 and

illustrated on Figure 2.1. At each location the proposed activity will require the establishment of a temporary

works area of less than 400 square metres. Accessing locations 3, 4, 5 and 6, would require the

establishment of temporary access tracks of under 500 metres in length and 2 metres in width with less than

300 metres of this requiring clearing. In total, 0.21 hectares of clearing is anticipated.

Table 2.1: Preliminary borehole collar locations and depths

Borehole ID Location Inclination (°) Approximate Elevation RL (m)

Hole Length (m)

Location 1 Pipeline anchor block 90 548 25

Location 2 Vertical shaft 90 636 480 - 650

Location 3 Cavern Area 90 179 250

Location 4 Cavern Area 60 178 235

Location 5 Tailrace and crest of cliff 90 185 210

Location 6 Access tunnel portal + tailrace tunnel 90 69 70

Location 7 Tailrace Tunnel initial portal drive 90 73 55

Location 8 Tailrace channel cut 90 73 45

A brief description of each geotechnical investigation location is provided in Table 2.2, this table provides

details of the existing conditions at the locations and the area expected to be cleared to complete the

activity. Specific information on the ecological values at each geotechnical investigation location is provided

in Chapters 5 to 8.

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Study area


Access tracks

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Table 2.2: Geotechnical investigation location photolog

Photo Location and description

Location 1

Proposed anchor block location with works to

be limited to the existing area of disturbance

and concrete and access via existing access

track requiring no vegetation clearing.

Location 2

Proposed vertical shaft location with works to

be limited to areas largely devoid of vegetation

and within an area previously disturbed by

construction of the original scheme.

Locations 3 and 4

Ground above indicative power station cavern

location require establishment of an

approximately 200 metre long and 2 metre

wide temporary access track positioned to

avoid disturbance of habitat features.

Establishment of two works areas one for

each location (Location 3 above photo,

Location 4 below photo), would require

establishment of two temporaty works areas of

less than 20 metre by 20 metre dimension

avoiding habitat features.

No ground disturbance is proposed other than

the bore hole and access track.


10


Location 5

Location 5 is targeting the indicative tailrace

and access tunnels and is aimed at providing

improved understanding of ancient landslide

formation.

Drilling location and works areas would be in

an area previously cleared and naturally

revegetated.

Location 5 would require establishment of an

approximate 120 metre long and 2 metre wide

temporary access track extending from

location 4 and positioned to avoid disturbance

of habitat features.The establishment of a

temporary works area of less than 20 metre by

20 metre dimension avoiding habitat features

would also be required.



Location 6

Indicative access tunnel portal location with

geotechnical investigations positioned to limit

clearing to the extent possible and access

provided by a 175 metre long, and 2 metre

wide temporary access track and less than 20

metre by 20 metre dimension temporary works

area positioned to avoid disturbance of habitat

features.




11


Location 7

Indicative tailrace tunnel initial drive location

with works to be limited to cleared and

previously disturbed area within the Bendeela

power station site as shown. No new clearing

is required for establishment of access or

works area.


the bore hole.

Location 8

Targeting geotechnical properties of the

indicative intake structure, with bore location

relocated further east with the existing access

to the Bendeela power station forebay, out of

an adjacent area identified as moderate

archaeological potential.

2.2 Proposed activities

2.2.1 Drilling method and core sizes

General methods and requirements for drilling are expected to involve the following:

• Preparation of a bunded work area lined with a basal geotextile mat and then overlain by a heavy-duty

plastic impervious sheet. Bunded above ground mud pits/ tanks to prevent off site drilling fluid

discharges and other requirements. The mud pits will be fully impervious using both geotextile and

plastic sheeting and additional barriers and redundancy to prevent any discharges;

• Boreholes may be advanced by augering in the upper soil profile, followed by wash boring to the rock

head which is expected to be a maximum of about 10 m below the surface. For drilling in soils,

Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) may be performed in soils and undisturbed tube samples may be

collected in cohesive or fine-grained soils; and

• Rock core drilling would commence from the top of bedrock and advanced to the target depth.

The drilling hole sizes are likely to range from 75 to 140 millimetres in diameter.


12

2.2.2 Ancillary works

The following ancillary works would be undertaken at each geotechnical investigation location:

• Packer Testing - Down-hole water injection (Lugeon) rock mass permeability testing will be carried

within various boreholes using a gas-inflated packer wireline apparatus with a single packer

configuration as the hole is advanced to the required depth for each test interval.

• In situ stress testing – A narrow 0.5m deep pilot hole drill will be drilled into the base of the borehole at

various depths and a stress testing tool wedged into pilot hole. The pilot hole will then be over-cored

and the stress testing tool will record deformations in the pilot hole resulting from relief of in situ stress

during the over coring process.

• Borehole Geophysics and Televiewer Surveys - All borehole walls will be imaged using acoustic

televiewer (ATV) below the water table and optical televiewer (OTV) in dry sections of borehole.

Geophysical surveys including full wave sonic, natural gamma, density and temperature profiles for the

full depth for each hole will also be undertaken. These surveys will be undertaken at the completion of

the drilling and prior to installation of groundwater monitoring installations and or back-grouting of holes

• Groundwater Monitoring Installations - Groundwater monitoring installations will include a combination

of screened standpipe piezometers and grouted-in vibrating wire piezometers (VWP). The standpipe

piezometers will allow for periodic groundwater quality sampling and level monitoring.

• Bore Completion Works - All holes that are not to be instrumented for long term groundwater monitoring

will be fully grouted at the completion of drilling work. The remaining holes that are to be completed for

groundwater monitoring will be fully grouted to the base depth of the monitoring well. The piezometer

will be finished with stick up of between 0.6m and 0.8m above ground level and finished with installation

of a steel lockable monument.

2.2.3 Access

Access to bore holes 1 and 2 would be via the existing Promised Lands Trail off Moss Vale Road between

Fitzroy Falls and Barrengarry. The Promised Lands Trail runs through WaterNSW land and the Morton

National Park and was constructed to facilitate construction and operation of the existing scheme. No new,

or modified access tracks are required for these locations.

Access to the remaining bore holes would be via Jacks Corner Road and Lower Bendeela Road off Moss

Vale Road between Shoalhaven and Barrengarry. No upgrades to public roads would be required. Access

to boreholes 3 to 6 would require limited clearing of shrubs to ground level to establish a corridor to facilitate

the daily access of a drill rig, support vehicles and worker vehicles. No excavation of the ground surface

would be undertaken and large, mature vegetation is expected to be avoidable due to historic clearing.

2.2.4 Duration and Timing

The deepest borehole drilling associated with the geotechnical investigations are anticipated to take up to

three months. Shallow bores would be completed over a period of a few weeks. Drilling is proposed to be

limited to 10 hours per day, six days per week and during daylight hours.

2.2.5 Disturbance Requirements and Environmental Management

As identified in Table 2.2, minimal clearing for access and a work area is required at geotechnical

investigation locations 3, 4, 5 and 6. This involves providing access for a drill rig and clearing a temporary

works area at the drill site. Clearing of vegetation would be done by hand removing shrubs, small trees and

groundcover vegetation to ground level, there will be no clearing of moderate and large sized trees and

deliberate disturbance of the soil layer would be avoided. This is expected to be a temporary disturbance of

medium duration.

Works would be undertaken generally in accordance with Department of Planning and Environment (2017a)

Exploration Code of Practice: Environmental Management and Department of Planning and Environment

(2017b) Exploration Code of Practice: Rehabilitation.


13

3. Legislative context

3.1 NSW Planning Framework

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) establishes the planning and approvals

process in NSW. The EP&A Act provides for the making of Environmental Planning Instruments (EPIs)

including Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs), which set

out requirements for particular localities and/or particular types of development. The applicable EPIs and the

Regulations made under the EP&A Act determine the relevant planning approval pathway and the

associated environmental assessment requirements for proposed development activities.

3.1.1 Critical State significant infrastructure

Clause 16 of the State Environmental Planning Policy (State and Regional Development) 2011 (SRD SEPP)

provides that:

Development specified in Schedule 5:

(a) may be carried out without development consent under Part 4 of the Act, and

(b) is declared to be State significant infrastructure for the purposes of the Act if it is not otherwise so

declared, and

(c) is declared to be critical State significant infrastructure for the purposes of the Act.

Schedule 5 of the SRD SEPP lists:

(1) Development for the purposes of the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project.

(2) The Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project includes the following:

a. exploratory geotechnical works for the design of the project,

b. A new underground pumped hydro station,

c. tunnels and underground and overground water pipelines,

d. surge tanks and intake and outlet structures,

e. the decommissioning of the underground pumped hydro power station and rehabilitation of

the site.

(3) Development that is ancillary to other development in this clause (including the upgrading or

construction of access roads, utilities infrastructure, construction accommodation, construction

compounds).

(4) The development is to be carried out on land in Kangaroo Valley, Barrengarry and Fitzroy Falls.

(5) In this clause, development does not include the carrying out of surveys, sampling, environmental

investigations, archaeological excavations or other tests or investigations for the assessment of the

project.

Accordingly, the project is Critical SSI which requires approval under Division 5.2 of the EP&A Act and the

NSW Minister for Planning is the determining authority.


14

3.1.2 Application of other parts of EP&A Act

Under Division 5.2, Section 5.22 (Application of other provisions of Act):

“(1) Part 4 and Division 5.1 do not, except as provided by this Division, apply to or in respect of State

significant infrastructure (including the declaration of the infrastructure as State significant

infrastructure and any approval or other requirement under this Division for the infrastructure)”.

(2) Part 3 and environmental planning instruments do not apply to or in respect of State significant

infrastructure, except that:

(a) they apply to the declaration of infrastructure as State significant infrastructure or as critical

State significant infrastructure (and to the declaration of development that does not require

consent), and

(b) they apply in so far as they relate to section 3.16, and for that purpose a reference in that

section to enabling development to be carried out in accordance with an environmental planning

instrument or in accordance with a consent granted under this Act is to be construed as a

reference to enabling State significant infrastructure to be carried out in accordance with an

approval granted under this Division.

Accordingly, SEPPs and the LEPs do not affect the permissibility or assessment process for the

geotechnical investigations.

3.2 Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016

Part 7 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) requires that an application for State significant

infrastructure approval under Division 5.2 of the EP&A Act be accompanied by a "biodiversity development

assessment report unless " the Secretary of the Department of Planning and the Chief Executive of the

Office of Environment and Heritage” determine that the proposed development is not likely to have any

significant impact on biodiversity values".

The project SEARS, requested completion of a BDAR for the geotechnical investigations.

3.3 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974

The objects of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 Act (NPW Act) are as follows:

(a) the conservation of nature, including, but not limited to, the conservation of:

(i) habitat, ecosystems and ecosystem processes, and

(ii) biological diversity at the community, species and genetic levels, and

(iii) landforms of significance, including geological features and processes, and

(iv) landscapes and natural features of significance including wilderness and wild rivers,

(b) the conservation of objects, places or features (including biological diversity) of cultural value within the landscape, including, but not limited to:

(i) places, objects and features of significance to Aboriginal people, and

(ii) places of social value to the people of New South Wales, and

(iii) places of historic, architectural or scientific significance,

(c) fostering public appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of nature and cultural heritage and their conservation,

(d) providing for the management of land reserved under this Act in accordance with the management principles applicable for each type of reservation.

The Morton National Park is reserved under the NPW Act and the use of existing roads within the reserved lands is required to access geotechnical investigation locations 1 and 2. The proposed geotechnical


15

investigation locations 1 and 2 are approximately 40 metres from the Morton National Park. No works or activities are proposed within the Morton National Park.

Part 12 of the NPW Act allows for the granting of leases, licences, easements and rights of way for activities within reserved lands. Origin has agreed formal access arrangements for the use of existing access track through the Morton National Park with National Parks and Wildlife services and no additional approvals are understood to be necessary.

3.4 Commonwealth referral requirements

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is the primary

Commonwealth legislation relating to the environment. Under Part 3 of the EPBC Act, approval from the

Australian Minister for the Environment and Energy is required for a controlled action being an action that:

• Has, will have, or is likely to have a significant impact on a matter of national environmental

significance;

• Is undertaken on Commonwealth land and has, will have, or is likely to have a significant impact on the

environment;

• Is undertaken outside Commonwealth land and has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on

the environment of Commonwealth land; or

• Is undertaken by the Commonwealth and has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on the

environment.

A significant impact under the EPBC Act is an impact which is important, notable, or of consequence, having

regard to its context or intensity. Whether or not an action is likely to have a significant impact depends upon

the sensitivity, value, and quality of the environment which is impacted, and upon the intensity, duration,

magnitude and geographic extent of the impacts. Matters of national environmental significance (MNES)

include:

• World heritage properties;

• National heritage places;

• Wetlands of international importance (often called 'Ramsar' wetlands after the international treaty under

which such wetlands are listed);

• Nationally threatened species and ecological communities;

• Migratory species;

• Commonwealth marine areas;

• The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park;

• Nuclear actions (including uranium mining); and

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

It is generally the responsibility of the proponent (or the land owner if owned by the Commonwealth) of a

proposed action to determine whether the Project, or action, has the potential to impact upon a MNES and

constitute the need for a referral to the Commonwealth for determination. An action that is referred for

consideration by the Australian Minister for the Environment and Energy cannot be undertaken until the

outcome of the referral process is completed - either through the decision of the Minister that the action is

not a controlled action or that the assessment and approval process has been completed.

Impacts to MNES are considered in Chapter 8 and it is concluded that a significant impact is not likely and

as such a referral is not required.


16

4. Methodology

4.1 Small area assessment module

The BAM module for assessing small areas has been applied for this BDAR on the basis that the

culmulative area to be disturbed by the geotechnical investigations is below the maximum clearing

area threshold set out in th BAM. In this regard the minimum lot size associated with the study area is

1 ha and the proposed activity would involve clearing/disturbance to less than 1ha of native

vegetation (i.e. less than 0.25 ha).

The assessment approach adopted included a site survey and collection of plot-based survey data to

identify Plant Community Types (PCTs), vegetation zones and vegetation integrity. Survey data was

used to determine the habitat suitability for threatened species.

The streamlined assessment module for small area development component of the BAM Credit

Calculator only accepts assessment of one PCT, therefore the assessor has used the standard

assessment module for this assessment.

4.2 Personnel

This BDAR has been prepared by an accredited assessor in accordance with Section 6.10 of the BC

Act; and qualified and experienced ecologists. The fieldwork undertaken during the preparation of this

BDAR was led by Jonathan Carr (BAAS18009) and Lauren Ascah.

4.3 Background research

A background review of available online information was undertaken to identify the existing

environment of the geotechnical investigation locations within a search area of 10 kilometres. The

review focussed on database searches, relevant ecological reports pertaining to the study area,

property boundaries, and relevant GIS layers. The review was used to prepare a list of threatened

species, populations and communities as well as important habitat for migratory species with a

likelihood of occurrence in the study area and locality. The searches were also undertaken to identify

if any Areas of Outstanding Biodiversity Value were present.

The following database searches were performed:

• BioNet - the website for the Atlas of NSW Wildlife and OEH Threatened Species Profile

Database;

• The federal Department of Environment and Energy Protected Matters Search Tool;

• The Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM) calculator predicted species function;

• OEH BioNet Vegetation Classification System database;

• The Federal Bureau of Meteorology’s Atlas of Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE);

• Atlas of Living Australia; and

• Register of Declared areas of Outstanding Biodiversity Value.

Spatial data used in the assessment included:

• Available regional vegetation mapping: Shoalhaven Biometric VIS 3900 v2 (OEH, 2013) and

Southeast NSW Native Vegetation Classification and Mapping – SCIVI (VIS_ID 2230) (Tozer et

al. 2010).

• Mitchell Landscapes Version V3.1 (OEH 2016);


17

• Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) Version 7 (DoEE 2017); and

• Waterways stream orders (DPI, 2013).

Likelihood of occurrence for each species identified in the desktop search was assigned based on

knowledge of the species’ preferred habitats and known distributions, confirmed against the assumed

habitat in the study area. Verified sightings of threatened species were also used to determine a

species’ presence in the area.

The likelihood of occurrence table (Appendix A) summarises all potential threatened species which

may occur at the site based on the above searches. The table indicates which search the species was

listed in, as well as the species known range/habitat, and the deemed likelihood of occurrence at the

site.

4.4 Field survey timing

Each geotechincal investigation location and temporary access track was identified in the field and

traversed on foot to search for threatened species and complete vegetation integrity plots. The field

surveys were undertaken over 2 days on 10 and 11 January 2019.

4.5 Stratification of native vegetation

A streamlined assessment allows the use of existing information such as VIS Flora Survey Module in

BioNet and existing vegetation maps and ecological reports. No local floristic data in surveys or sites

in the VIS Flora Survey were found.

The preliminary extent of each PCT within the proposal area was firstly reviewed using regional

vegetation mapping spatial layers in Shoalhaven Biometric VIS 3900 v2 (OEH, 2013) and SCIVI

VIS_ID 2230. The regional mapping was used to develop a survey design for stratifying vegetation

zones and sampling the required number of plots based on the existing broad condition state of

vegetation types. Prior to the field survey, proposed plots/mid-lines were randomly marked on map

within each area of mapped vegetation or direct geotechnical locations to provide a representative

assessment of the vegetation. At each point, a random number was selected between 1-360 to

generate a compass bearing for the direction of plots/mid-lines. Plots were positioned to provide a

wide spatial coverage of the proposal area and where possible, avoided locations on ecotones, tracks

(their edges) and/or disturbed areas distinguishably different to the target vegetation zones.

The preliminary vegetation mapping was examined and where possible vegetation within the proposal

area was identified according to the Plant Community Types (PCTs) classification as described in the

NSW Vegetation Information System (VIS) Classification database. In addition to the descriptions of

PCTs provided in the VIS database, broad scale vegetation mapping of the area including the Native

vegetation of southeast NSW: a revised classification and map for the coast and eastern tablelands

(Tozer et al. 2010) was used to inform the identification of PCTs. Many PCTs could not be confidently

identified before further detailed floristic data and vegetation structure data was collected on site. In

these cases, PCTs were assigned upon examination of the field data. The preliminary vegetation

mapping was altered in some areas, but generally kept within the same vegetation class.

4.6 Assessment of vegetation zones

The field surveys were designed to assess the environmental variation within the site. The condition

of PCTs was assessed in accordance with Chapter 5 of the BAM and vegetation zones assigned by

comparing the dominant species, the general description of location, soil type and other attributes as

described in the VIS classification database. Each PCT was divided into vegetation zones (an area of


18

native vegetation in the proposed area that is the same PCT and has a similar broad condition state).

The PCTs identified within the proposal area are outlined in detail in Chapter 6.

Four vegetation zones were identified (labelled 1 to 4) (see Table 4.1) based on the PCT and broad

condition state. Vegetation was assigned to two broad condition classes: Moderate to Good

(Regrowth) and Low condition regrowth.

The vegetation zones assigned as Moderate to Low and included regrowth condition class mostly

comprised of tree and shrub regrowth or regeneration with evidence of old clearing activities greater

than 40 years old.

Rapid data points (RDPs) and walked tracks were mapped in the field using a GPS tablet (Trimble

Yuma and Garmin 64S). RDPs were used to map and identify PCTs/vegetation zone boundaries

(ecotones) and broad condition state by assessing the presence of dominant plant species.

4.7 Plot survey

A plot-based full floristic survey was undertaken according to the BAM using a series of 20 x 20 metre

plots (or 400 m2 equivalent area) nested inside a 20 x 50 metre plot (or equivalent 1,000 m2

equivalent area). The number of plots/mid-lines required per vegetation zone area were completed

according to the BAM (see Table 4.1). The location of each plots/mid-lines undertaken during the

survey is illustrated in Figure 6.1. Plots/mid-lines were established to provide a representative

assessment of the vegetation integrity of the vegetation zone, accounting for the level of variation in

the broad condition state of the vegetation zone.

Table 4.1: Number of plots/mid-lines completed per vegetation zone

Vegetation

Zone

Plant Community Type name PCT

ID

Vegetation

zone

(condition)

Vegetation

zone area

(ha)

Minimum

number of

plots/mid-

lines required

Number of

plots/mid-

lines

completed

1 Turpentine - Red Bloodwood -

Sydney Peppermint shrubby open

forest on the foothills, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion and

northern South East Corner

Bioregion

1283 Moderate to

Good

(regrowth)

0.11 1 1

2 Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay -

Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and

on sheltered slopes, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion

1245 Moderate to

Good

(regrowth)

0.05 1 1

3 Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved

Stringybark grassy woodland on

coastal lowlands, southern Sydney

Basin Bioregion

838 Moderate to

Good

(regrowth)

0.05 1 1

4 River Peppermint - Rough-barked

Apple - River Oak herb/grass

riparian forest of coastal lowlands,

southern Sydney Basin Bioregion

and South East Corner Bioregion

1108 Low

(regrowth)

0.09 1 2

Total 4 5


19

4.8 Assessing vegetation integrity

The minimum number of plots/mid-lines were completed for each vegetation zone and recorded

composition, structure and function attributes to assess vegetation integrity (site condition). These

attributes were ranked against benchmark data for the relevant PCT and a vegetation integrity score

for each vegetation zone was determined in accordance with subsection 5.3 of the BAM. The

following vegetation integrity attributes collected are described below.

Composition

Composition was assessed using the following information in each 400m2 plot:

• Total number of native plant species (richness) was observed and recorded;

• Full species names (to the lowest taxonomic order) of above ground vascular plant species were

recorded where sufficient plant material was available for identification using nomenclature

consistent with PlantNet NSW;

• At least the three dominant native plants identified to species level;

• Stratum and layer - in which each species occurs;

• Growth form - for each recorded species;

• Exotic and High Threat Exotic (HTE) plant species were also recorded;

• The composition of each allocated growth form was assessed by counting the number of

different native plant species within each growth form group (i.e. tree, shrub, grass and grass

like, forb, fern and other); and

• Abundance rating – A relative measure of the number of individuals or shoots of a species within

the plot. The following intervals were used; numbers above about 20 are estimates only:

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,20,50,100,500,1000. Numbers between 20 and 1000 individuals were

estimated only as it is not possible to accurately count large numbers of some species in the plot.

Structure

Structure was assessed using the following information in each 400m2 plot:

• Foliage cover was measured or estimated as a percentage for each growth form group from all

living plant material of all individual plant species rooted or overhanging in the plot;

• Cover was recorded in decimals if less than 1% or whole numbers up to 5% or to the nearest 5%

where greater than 5% cover;

• Cover - a measure or estimate of the appropriate cover measure for each recorded species;

recorded from 1–5 per cent and then to the nearest 5 per cent. If the cover of a species is less

than 1 per cent and the species is considered important, then the estimated cover should be

entered (e.g. 0.4);

• Structure was calculated as the sum of all the individual foliage cover estimates of all native plant

species recorded within each growth form group within each plot; and

• Each non-native (exotic) plant species foliage cover estimate and either Exotic and High Threat

Exotic (HTE).

Function

Function was assessed using the following information in each 1,000 m2 plot:

• Number of large trees - count of all living stems with a DBH equal to or greater than the large

tree benchmark DBH size for that PCT or vegetation class. For the PCTs on this site, the large

tree benchmark DBH size is greater than 50cm;

• Tree regeneration – recorded presence or absence of living trees with stems <5cm DBH;


20

• Stem size class - recorded presence or absence of living tree stems that fall between

regenerating stems (<5cm DBH) and the large tree benchmark DBH size(s) (i.e. <5, 5–9, 10–19,

20–29, 30–49, 50–79, and 80+ cm DBH) and include all species in the tree growth form group;

• Total length of fallen logs - total length in metres of all woody material greater than 10cm in

diameter that is dead and entirely or in part on the ground in each plot;

• Litter cover - percentage litter cover was measured in five 1 m x 1 m sub-plots located five

metres out from 50 metre mid-line marked at 5m, 15m, 25m, 35m and 45m. Litter was taken as

plant material detached from a plant including leaves, seeds, twigs, branchlets and branches with

diameter of <10 cm. Litter not in contact with the ground is not recorded. The estimated litter

cover from each five sub-plots were averaged to generate the average percentage litter cover for

the entire plot;

• High threat exotic vegetation cover – was collected from the structure data assessment in 400 m2

plot, but entered into the function data section in the BAM calculator; and

• Hollow bearing trees – number of hollow-bearing trees (living or dead) were counted with at least

one hollow with an opening width greater than or equal to five centimetres and the hollow at least

one metre above the ground. Hollows in the shrub growth form group were also counted if met

requirements.

4.9 Limitations

The vegetation field survey was able to provide good spatial coverage and survey effort of each PCT

present on the site, meeting the requirements of the BAM. The vegetation within the study area has

been assigned to a PCT as listed in the VIS database based on the observed species composition,

vegetation structure, landscape position, and underlying geology and soils. The mapping provided in

this report is supported by on ground observations and quantitative data. Plant communities are

naturally variable and the boundaries between different PCTs overlap considerably. Often the

boundary between PCTs is indistinct and the boundaries between PCTs usually involve ecotones,

with a gradual transition from one community to another. However, a choice must be made to map

and assign a PCT to a particular area of the site. As mapping necessitates that a hard boundary is

drawn to separate PCTs, boundaries of PCTs and vegetation zones have been mapped as best as

possible based on observations made during the field survey and aerial photography. It is likely that

the boundaries of PCTs and vegetation zones will change with time. The descriptions of the PCTs in

the VIS database represented in the proposal area mostly have a classification confidence level of

Very Low and in many cases, the PCTs have a highly variable mixed canopy, shrub layer and ground

cover species complement. The vegetation has been assigned to a PCT that was considered the

most likely PCT based on the published descriptions of PCTs available in the VIS database based on

the field data collected from site.

The list of species recorded in each PCT during this study should not be seen to be fully

comprehensive, but rather an indication of the species apparent at the time of the survey. The survey

was undertaken in summer. A period of several seasons or years is needed to identify all the species

present in an area, especially as some species are only apparent at certain times of the year (e.g.

orchids, annual herbs and grasses). Some species require specific prevailing weather conditions (e.g.

recent rainfall) for optimum detection.

The conclusions of this report are based upon available data and the field surveys and are therefore

indicative of the environmental condition of the study area at the time of the survey. It should be

recognised that conditions, including the presence of threatened species, can change with time.


21

5. Landscape context

The majority of the footprint of the geotechnical investigation locations have been previously disturbed

during the construction of the existing scheme. However, a review of satellite imagery indicates

considerable regeneration and the surrounding locality is known to retain considerable biodiversity

values including a number of threatened or endangered species and communities listed under State

and Commonwealth legislation. Landscape features and site context are illustrated in Figure 5.2.

5.1 IBRA Bioregions and sub-regions

The geotechnical investigations are located in the Sydney Basin bioregion, on the border between two

Sub-regions; Ettrema and Illawarra, as defined by the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for

Australia (IBRA 7) (SA Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources, 2015).

5.2 BioNet NSW Landscapes (Mitchell landscapes)

The geotechnical investigation locations requiring clearing are located within the Kangaroo Valley

Mitchell landscape, while locations 1 and 2 are located within the bordering Fitzroy Falls Escarpment

Mitchell landscape, as mapped by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) and described

by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (2008).

The Kangaroo Valley landscape, located in the Ettrema and Illawarra IBRA sub-regions contains an

enclosed, narrow, western facing valley surrounded by sandstone escarpment features. Soils on the

slopes are loamy sand matrix in a sandstone rubble beneath cliff lines, then yellow texture-contrast

profiles grading to deep loam on the valley floors. The general elevation of the valley floor is 80 to

100 m, with local relief 180 m. Vegetation below the escarpment is broadly characterised by tall

forests of yellow stringybark (Eucalyptus muelleriana), Sydney peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita),

silvertop ash (Eucalyptus sieberi), turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera), two-veined hickory (Acacia

binervata), narrow-leaved geebung (Persoonia linerais), and sandfly zieria (Zieria smithii). Open

forests on the foothills of the escarpment broadly contain forest oak (Allocasuarina torulosa), forest

red gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), rough-barked apple (Angophora floribunda), southern mahogany

(Eucalyptus botryoides), river peppermint (Eucalyptus elata), and Breynia sp. The percentage of

cleared land in this landscape is 42%.

5.3 Rivers, streams and estuaries

Geotechnical investigation location 1 is at the foot of a valley in an area that was filled associated with

the construction of the anchor block for the existing scheme surface pipeline. This valley is mapped

as containing a first order creek up stream of Trimbles Creek which is mapped as Key Fish Habitat

approximately 1.3 kilometres downstream of geotechnical investigation location 1.

Geotechnical investigation locations 3, 4, and 5 and 6, where clearing is required, are within the

catchment of Kings Creek which is mapped as Key Fish Habitat. These locations are over 100 metres

from the creek and no direct or indirect impacts to Kings Creek are likely.

Geotechnical investigation locations 7 is adjacent to, and location 8 is within, the mapped area of Key

Fish Habitat for Lake Yarrunga. No clearing or impact to key fish habitat is likely due to the nature of

the works proposed and control measures to be employed.

5.4 Wetlands

Nearby Bendeela Pondage and Lake Yarrunga are both classified as wetlands, however they do not intrude onto the area impacted by the geotechnical investigations.

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23

5.5 Connectivity

The assessed area is well connected to the forests to the West of locations 3 to 8 with the areas east

of Bendeela Pondage largely cleared.Geotechnical investigation locations 1 and 2 are located in a

existing cleared areas within a narrow strip of WaterNSW land running through the Morton National

Park and in areas of good connectivity.

5.6 Areas of geological significance and soil hazard features

Areas of geological significance generally include karst, caves, crevices and cliffs. Some rocky habitat

present near the geotechnical investigation locations contained small crevices. The escarpment to the

south of location 1 and 2 contain cliffs and crevices.

Soil hazard features such as dryland salinity, acidification, structural breakdown, sodicity and

contamination were not noted during the field surveys. There were no apparent plant growth problems

noted due to soil health. Soils at the site were generally sandy-loam, and drainage was good in all

assessed areas. The acid sulfate soil risk has not been mapped for the study area. Based on

surrounding topography, it is assumed to be low risk.

5.7 Areas of outstanding biodiversity value

The study area does not contain any areas of outstanding biodiversity value listed on the register of

declared areas of outstanding biodiversity value.

5.8 Native vegetation extent

To assess percent current extent of native vegetation in the buffer area around locations requiring

clearin, a buffer of 500 metres was placed around the centre boundaries of each linear proposal area.

Native over storey vegetation was digitised off an aerial photograph to determine the extent of native

vegetation cover within the 500 metre landscape buffer (see Figure 5.2). Obviously cleared areas

were excluded from the mapping. However, the calculations are however subject to a degree of error

as the mapping is an abstraction of reality. The extent of native vegetation cover within the 500 metre

landscape buffer was then calculated in a GIS.

There are approximately 161 hectares of native vegetation within the 500 metre landscape buffer. The

landscape buffer is 224 hectares in size. This results in a percent native vegetation cover of 72%.

Therefore, the cover class for the development site is >70%.

5.9 Patch sizes

The patch sizes for each vegetation zone in the proposed stewardship site has been determined in

accordance with Section 5.3.2 of the BAM. The BAM defines patch size as an area of native

vegetation (intact) that:

a) occurs on the development site or biodiversity stewardship site; and

b) includes native vegetation that has a gap of less than 100m from the next area of moderate to

good condition native vegetation (or ≤30m for non-woody ecosystems).

Patch size may extend onto adjoining land that is not part of the development site. Intact vegetation

must include all structural layers (strata) characteristic of the PCT. The site comprises of all woody

ecosystems with a very high connectivity with large areas of intact contiguous native vegetation.

Patch size area was assigned to each vegetation zone as a class, being <5ha, 5–24ha, 25–100ha or

≥100ha. The results of patch size assessment are shown in Section 6.2 of this report.

!A

!A

KANGAROO RIVER

I l lawarra

Ettrema

FitzroyFalls

Escarpment

FitzroyFalls

Escarpment

KangarooValley


Location 5

Location 6

Location 7

Location 8

Legend!A

Indicative geotechnical investigation locations(no clearing required)

Geotechnical investigation area indicativeclearing

Buffer area 500m

Vegetation cover

IBRA subregions

Mitchell landscapes

Cadastre

Water way

Figure 5.2 | Site Map

!

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25

6. Native Vegetation

6.1 Plant Community Types and vegetation zones

A description of each Plant Community Type (PCT) in the area surrounding locations requiring

clearing is provided in this section. This BDAR describes PCTs in terms of their floristic composition,

geological substrate, landscape position and relevant regional vegetation classification according to

the VIS classification database and plot data. Table 6.1 summarises each PCT including the

corresponding threatened ecological community (if applicable). The distribution of PCTs within the

surrounding areas requiring clearing is outlined in Figure 6.1.

Vegetation zones are defined under the BAM as a relatively homogenous area of native vegetation

that is the same PCT and broad condition state. The vegetation was first split into PCTs then the

broad condition states of the PCTs were investigated on-ground to determine the number of

vegetation zones within the proposal area.

Table 6.1 : Summary of PCTS and TECs located in the proposal area

Vegetation

zones

Plant Community Type Vegetation

formation

Percent

cleared in

major

catchment

area

Corresponding

Threatened Ecological

Community (TEC)

Area

(ha)

Patch

size

1 Turpentine - Red

Bloodwood - Sydney

Peppermint shrubby open

forest on the foothills,

southern Sydney Basin

Bioregion and northern

South East Corner

Bioregion (PCT 1283)

Wet

Sclerophyll

Forests

(Grassy sub-

formation)

15% N/A 0.13 >100

2 Sydney Blue Gum x

Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist

forest in gullies and on

sheltered slopes,

southern Sydney Basin


Wet

Sclerophyll

Forests

(Shrubby sub-

formation)

43% N/A 0.05 >100

3 Forest Red Gum - Thin-

leaved Stringybark grassy

woodland on coastal

lowlands, southern


(PCT 838)

Coastal Valley

Grassy

Woodland

85% Illawarra Lowlands Grassy

Woodland in the Sydney

Basin Bioregion (BC Act)

Illawarra and south coast

lowland forest and

woodland ecological

community (EPBC Act)

0.05 >100

4 River Peppermint -

Rough-barked Apple -

River Oak herb/grass

riparian forest of coastal

lowlands, southern


and South East Corner


Forested

Wetlands

50% River-Flat Eucalypt Forest

on Coastal Floodplains of

the New South Wales

North Coast, Sydney Basin

and South East Corner

Bioregions (BC Act)

0.06 >100


26

6.1.1 Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the

foothills, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner


Vegetation formation: Wet Sclerophyll Forests (Grassy sub-formation)

Vegetation class: Southern Lowland Wet Sclerophyll forests

Threatened Ecological Community: N/A

Vegetation zones / survey effort / extent on site:

• Zone 1 (Moderate - Regrowth): 1 plot (1) / 0.13 ha

Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the foothills, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner Bioregion is a tall open forest with a dense

shrub understorey occurring on sheltered slopes with loamy soil.

On site, PCT 1283 was dominated by a mix of regrowth tree species including Syncarpia glomulifera

subsp. glomulifera, Angophra floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, and occasional Eucalyptus scias

subsp. callimastha, Eucalyptus saligna x botroyoides and Corymbia gummifera in the canopy. The

shrub layer was very dense with regrowth dominated by Kunzea ambiguea and Hakea salicifolia and

had a high richness of other shrubs (n=19) Leptospermum trinerivum, Acacia irrorata, Callistemon

citrinus and Melaleuca linariifolia. Diagonstic shrubs includes Banksia spinulosa subsp. spinulosa and

Persoonia linearis. The groundcover had a high cover of leaf litter with a range of perennial herbs as

well as some grasses, climbers and ferns. Species included Dianella caerulea, Entolasia stricta and

Pteridium esculentum.


27

Photograph 1: Plot 1 of Vegetation Zone 1 (Moderate - Regrowth) with Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the foothills, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner Bioregion (PCT 1283)

This vegetation is considered most likely to be representative of PCT 1283 for the following reasons:

• Dominance of Syncarpia glomuilfera with a mix of other diagositic tree species, including

occasional Eucalyptus scias subsp. callimastha, and Corymbia gummifera;

• The middle stratum was generally dense and rich with sclerophyllous shrub species including

charteristic species Acacia obtusifolia, Persoonia linearis, Banksia spinulosa, Elaeocarpus

reticulatus;

• The ground stratum is characterised Dianella caerulea; Entolasia stricta; Pteridium esculentum

and a suite of ground stratum species common to other PCTs on the site; and

• Semi-sheltered west facing slope with sandy loam soils.

Given the past disturbance and high level of tree and shrub regrowth on the site, it was difficult to

ascertain a definitive PCT. The broader patch was also dominated by Eucalyptus eugenoides and

Angophora floribunda typical of Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on

coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 838). However lacked any regrowth of

Eucalyptus tereticornis and continuous grassy cover, perhaps a result of selective logging. There is

potential for PCT 838 listed as a Threatened Ecological Community Illawarra Lowlands Grassy

Woodland in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (BC Act). As the study area has characteristic tree species

present and occurrence of wet sclerophyllous and mesic rainforest shrubs and low cover of grasses,

the community is best suited within the Wet Sclerophyll Forests (Grassy sub-formation) Vegetation

Formation.

The site also intergrades with a mix of Eucalyptus saligna x botroyoides likely tranisitioning into PCT

1245 especially down slope to the west and south where a dominance of rainforest shrubs are more

prevalent. Regrowth comprised of high densities of natural tree and shrub regeneration with no

weeds.

6.1.2 Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and on sheltered

slopes, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 1245)

Vegetation formation: Wet Sclerophyll Forests (Shrubby sub-formation)

Vegetation class: North Coast Wet Sclerophyll Forests

Threatened Ecological Community: N/A



Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and on sheltered slopes, southern

Sydney Basin Bioregion is a very tall open forest which can have multiple layers of rainforest trees,

palms and shrubs. Grows on deep chocolate clay soils on escarpment benches, alluvial flats and

protected gullies.

On site, PCT 1245 was dominated by a mix of regrowth tree species including Eucalyptus saligna,

Eucalyptus botroyoides and Eucalyptus saligna x botroyoides and Syncarpia glomulifera subsp.

glomulifera, with occasional Angophra floribunda and Eucalyptus eugenioides. Parts of the midstorey

was dense with Kunzea ambigua as well as dominated by Acacia mearnsii, Notelaea venosa,

Leucopogon juniperinus and Clerodendrum tomentosum. The groundcover had a high cover of leaf

litter with a range of grasses perennial herbs as well as some grasses, climbers amnd ferns.


28

The shrub layer was very variable, dominated by dense regrowth of Kunzea ambiguea and Hakea

salicifolia as well as Leptospermum trinerivum, Callistemon citrinus and Melaleuca linariifolia.

Diagonstic shrubs includes Banksia spinulosa subsp. spinulosa and Persoonia linearis. The

groundcover had a high cover of leaf litter with a range of grasses, herbs, climbers and ferns.

Dominant species included Entolasia marginata, Microlaena stipoides, Oplismenus aemulus, Morinda

jasminoides, and Marsdenia rostrata.

Photograph 2: Plot 2 of Vegetation Zone 2 (Moderate - Regrowth) with Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and on sheltered slopes, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 1245)


• Dominance of Eucalyptus saligna x botroyoides, Eucalyptus saligna and Syncarpia glomulifera

subsp. glomulifera with a mix of other tree species;

• The middle stratum was generally dense and rich with sclerophyllous shrub species including

charateristic species Notelaea venosa, Clerodendrum tomentosum;

• The ground stratum lacked many of the characteristic ferns, but many were nearby in better

sheltered slopes to west and south; and

• Semi-sheltered west facing slope with sandy loam soils.

Given the past disturbance and high level of tree and shrub regrowth on the site, it was difficult to

ascertain a definitive PCT. Better examples of this PCT where noted further down slope to the west.

As the study area has characteristic tree species present and occurrence of wet sclerophyllous and

mesic rainforest shrubs and low cover of grasses, the community is best suited within the Wet


29

Sclerophyll Forests (Shrubby sub-formation) Vegetation Formation. Regrowth comprised of high

densities of natural tree and shrub regeneration with no weeds.

6.1.3 Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal lowlands,

southern Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 838)

Vegetation formation: Grassy Woodlands

Vegetation class: Coastal Valley Grassy Woodlands

Threatened Ecological Community: Illawarra Lowlands Grassy Woodland in the Sydney Basin

Bioregion (BC Act) and Illawarra and south coast lowland forest and woodland ecological community

(EPBC Act)



Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal lowlands, southern Sydney

Basin Bioregion is a woodland with a open shrub layer and continuous grassy groundcover. Grows on

lower slopes in coastal rainshadow valley in a variety of substrates.

On site, PCT 838 was dominated by Eucalyptus eugenioides with occasional Syncarpia glomulifera

subsp. glomulifera. Angophra floribunda and Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia were also

nearby. The midstorey and groundcover were generally sparse likely due to past distrubances. There

was a richness of shrubs including Breynia oblongifolia, Pittosporum undulatum, Leucopogon

juniperinus, Persoonia linearis, Allocasuarina littoralis, Bursaria spinosa and Daviesia ulicifolia. The

groundcover had a high cover of leaf litter with a range of grasses including Microlaena stipoides,

Panicum simile, Paspalidium distans, Eragrostis brownii, Entolasia stricta and Oplismenus aemulus.

There were also a range of herbs, rushes, and Glycine spp. climbers.


• Dominance of Eucalyptus eugenioides, with occasional Angophora floribunda and Eucalyptus

amplifolia subsp. Amplifolia;

• The middle stratum was generally sparse and rich with sclerophyllous shrub species including

charateristic species Pittosporum undulatum and Breynia oblongifolia;

• The ground stratum was spase in some locations, but was mostly comprised of characteristic

grasses; and

• Lowlands below the escarpment, transitioning into Kangaroo Valley River floodplain.

Past disturbance of this PCT has changed the structure and species composition, with many species

still regenerating. Some Eucalyptus eugenioides were mature and intact. No regrowth of Eucalyptus

tereticornis was observed perhaps a result of selective logging. Regrowth comprised of natural tree

and shrub regeneration with a low abundance of weeds. High Threat Weed Ligustrum sinense was

observed in PCT with a low cover of abundance.


30

Photograph 3: Plot 3 of Vegetation Zone 3 (Moderate - Regrowth) with Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 838)

6.1.4 River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple - River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of

coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion

(PCT 1108)

Vegetation formation: Forested Wetlands

Vegetation class: Eastern Riverine Forests

Threatened Ecological Community: River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains of the New

South Wales North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregions (BC Act)


• Zone 4 (Low - Regrowth): 2 plots (4,5) / 0.05 ha

River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple - River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of coastal lowlands,

southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion is a open eucalypt forest with a

open shrub layer and dense cover of grasses and forbs. Grows on sandy alluvial flats, floodplain

margins and in riverine corridors.

On site, PCT 1108 lacked a tree canopy. Eucalyptus elata, Angophora floribunda, Casuarina

cunninghamiana, Eucalyptus salgina and Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia were observed

nearby in better condition patches.


31

The midstroey was dominated by Acacia mearnsii, with occasional Melicytus dentatus. There was a

very high cover of Microlaena stipoides (83%) with some native grasses and forbs including

Oplismenus aemulus, Commelina cyanea and Dichondra repens.

Photograph 4: Plot 4 of Vegetation Zone 4 (Low - Regrowth) with River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple - River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion (1108)


• Diagonostic tree canopy species nearby, Eucalyptus eugenioides, with occasional Angophora

floribunda and Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. Amplifolia;

• The middle stratum was dominated by characteristic Acacia mearnsii;

• The ground stratum had a dense cover of Microlaena stipoides and other typical grasses, and

frobs; and

• On sandy alluvial soils of Kangaroo Valley River floodplain.

Past disturbance of this PCT have removed all tree canopy species in the study area, including tree

regeneration. Dieback was prevalent in mature stands of Acacia mearnsii, creating woody debris and

logs. Much of the ground cover were dominated by native grass, however some patches had a high

weed cover. High Threat Weeds Ligustrum sinense, Ageratina riparia, and Araujia sericifera was

observed in PCT with a low-moderate cover of abundance.


32

6.2 Patch sizes

Each vegetation zone was assessed for intact vegetation and mapping extent using ArcGIS and the

latest aerial imagery. The site forms part of large contiguous patch of native vegetation extending into

state owned land, private property and national parks which eventually reaches the coast at Jervis

Bay and west to the Snowy Mountains.

All vegetation zones in the site fall within the patch size class ≥100ha.This information was used in the

BAM calculator to predict habitat suitability for threatened species.

6.3 Vegetation integrity results

The results of vegetation integrity scores produced by the BAM calculator (streamlined assessment

module) is summarised as the observed mean of all plots for composition, structure and function each

vegetation zone in Refer Table 6.2, Table 6.3 and Table 6.4.

Table 6.2 : Summary of current vegetation integrity scores

Vegetation

Zone No.

Plant Community Type (PCT code) Current VI

scores

1 Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the foothills,

southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner Bioregion (PCT

1283)

47.9

2 Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly moist forest in gullies and on sheltered slopes,


58.8

3 Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal lowlands,


36.2

4 River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple - River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of coastal

lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion (PCT

1108)

48.9


33

Table 6.3 : Summary of mean vegetation composition and structure scores

Zone Plots Trees Shrubs Grasses Forbs Ferns Other High Threat

Weed Cover

VI scores

N. spp Cover N. spp Cover N. spp Cover N. spp Cover N. spp Cover N. spp Cover Composition Structure

1 1 4 14.6 19 78.7 6 3.6 12 1.2 3 0.3 7 0.9 0 93.2 24.3

2 2 8 24.3 11 33 3 3.2 10 1 1 0.1 9 0.9 0 81.6 38.2

3 3 6 16.8 10 1.6 10 1.3 15 1.6 2 0.3 5 0.6 0.1 99.1 9.9

4 4 1 0.5 4 51.6 3 70.2 9 1 2 0.3 3 0.3 0.1 58.3 58.2

5 1 0.1 5 40.8 3 95.6 10 8.6 1 0.1 1 0.2 0.9

Table 6.4: Summary of vegetation function

Zone Plots Stem classes (1 = present, 0= absent): diameter at breast height Number

of large

trees

(80+ cm)

Number

of Hollow

bearing

trees

Log

lengths

(m)

Litter

cover

VI score

(function) 50-79 cm 30-49 cm 20-29 cm 10-19 cm 5-9 cm < 5cm

(regen)

1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 24 79.6 48.6

2 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 48 95 65

3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 11 99.2 48.6

4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44 92.8 34.4

5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 17 78

!A

!A

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

----

River Peppermint -Rough-barked Apple - River Oak

herb/grass riparian forest of coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and

SouthEast Corner Bioregion (PCT 1108)

-

Sydney Blue Gum xBangalay - Lilly Pilly

moist forest in gulliesand on shelteredslopes, southern Sydney

Basin Bioregion(PCT 1245)

Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney Peppermint shrubby open forest on the

foothills, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion and northern South East Corner Bioregion(PCT 1283)

e

Forest Red Gum- Thin-leavedStringybark grassy woodland

on coastal lowlands, southernSydney Basin Bioregion (PCT 838)

JACKS CORNER ROAD

JIME DW

ARDE

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CE

MCP H

AILS

TRAI

L

KANGAROORIVER


Location 5

Location 6

Location 7

Location 8

Legend!( Plots

!A Indicative geotechnical investigation locations (no clearing required)

Geotechnical investigation area indicative clearing

River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains of the New South Wales North Coast, Sydney Basin andSouth East Corner Bioregions (BC Act)

llawarra Lowlands Grassy Woodland in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (BC Act) Illawarra and south coast lowlandforest and woodland ecological community (EPBC Act)

Plant community types

Figure 6.1 | Distribution of Plant Community Types, TECs and Vegetation Zones

!

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0 200 400 m


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7. Habitat Suitability for Threatened Species

7.1 Ecosystem Credit Species Assessment

A list of ecosystem credit species predicted by the BAM calculator to occur within the study area are shown

below in Table 7.1. These predictions are based on habitat assessment and PCTs identified during field survey.

As the development is classified as linear, the table includes species from both the Illawarra and Ettrema IBRA

subregions. Potential for these species to occur within the survey area was assessed, and any exclusions

justified based on habitat constraints or the species potential to utilise vegetation zones.

Table 7.1: Ecosystem Credit Species Habitat Suitability Assessment

Scientific Name Species Exclusions

Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater

(foraging)

Not excluded

Callocephalon fimbriatum Gang-gang Cockatoo

(foraging)

Not excluded

Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo

(foraging)

Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack suitable numbers

of mature Allocasuarina spp.

Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier Not excluded

Daphoenositta

chrysoptera

Varied Sittella Not excluded

Dasyurus maculatus Spotted-tailed Quoll Not excluded

Falsistrellus tasmaniensis Eastern False Pipistrelle Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations are primarily regrowth

and lacks suitable tall trees (>20m) and no tree hollows

Glossopsitta pusilla Little Lorikeet Not excluded

Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle

(foraging)

Not excluded

Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle (foraging) Not excluded

Hoplocephalus

bungaroides

Broad-headed Snake

(foraging)

Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack suitable sun-

exposed rocky habitat and exposed cliff edges

Kerivoula papuensis Golden-tipped Bat Not excluded

Lathamus discolour Swift Parrot (foraging) Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack the preferred food

trees (Eucalyptus robusta, Corymbia maculata, E. sideroxylon, E. albens)

Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite

(foraging)

Not excluded

Miniopterus australis Little Bentwing-bat

(foraging)

Not excluded

Miniopterus schreibersii

oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-bat

(foraging)

Not excluded

Mormopterus

norfolkensis

Eastern Freetail-bat Not excluded

Neophema pulchella Turquoise Parrot Not excluded

Ninox connivens Barking Owl (foraging) Not excluded

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl (foraging) Not excluded


36

Scientific Name Species Exclusions

Pachycephala olivacea Olive Whistler Not excluded

Petaurus australis Yellow-bellied Glider Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack mature food trees

and suitable tall eucalypts with hollows for sheltering and breeding

Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin Not excluded

Petroica phoenicea Flame Robin Not excluded

Phascolarctos cinereus Koala (foraging) Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack a suitable

abundance of preferred food trees, as well as other eucalypts mature

enough to shelter in

Potorous tridactylus Long-nosed Potoroo Not excluded

Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox

(foraging)

Not excluded

Ptilinopus regina Rose-crowned Fruit-Dove Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations are outside the species’

normal range

Ptilinopus superbus Superb Fruit-dove Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations are outside the species’

normal range

Saccolaimus flaviventris Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-

Bat

Not excluded

Scoteanax rueppellii Greater Broad-nosed Bat Not excluded

Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack temperate

grassland habitat and existing grassy woodland habitat is primarily shrubby

regrowth and lacking in grasses

Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl (foraging) Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack the open woodland

with low shrub density that the species prefers

Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl (foraging) Not excluded

7.2 Species Credit Species Assessment

Additional threatened fauna species identified by the BAM calculator, which have the potential to utilise the

study area as suitable habitat are identified in Table 7.2 below. For the streamlined assessment, targeted

surveys for these species are not required, and flora species are excluded from the list. As the development is

classified as linear, the table includes species from both the Illawarra and Ettrema IBRA subregions. Species

credit species which are in the “very high” sensitivity to gain class are highlighted.

Table 7.2: Species Credit Species Habitat Suitability Assessment

Scientific Name Species Sensitivity

to Gain

Class

Exclusions and habitat constraints

Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater

(breeding)

High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitably mature eucalypts for nesting

Burhinus gallarius Bush Stone-Curlew High Not excluded - Habitat constraints of fallen/standing dead

timber were present within the geotechnical investigation

locations.

Callocephalon fimbriatum Gang-gang Cockatoo

(breeding)

High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack tree

hollows


37


to Gain

Class


Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo

(breeding)

High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack tree

hollows

Cercartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy-possum High Not excluded

Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied Bat Very High Not excluded – geotechnical investigation locations are within

2km of rocky areas containing escarpments.

Haliaeerus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-

Eagle (breeding)


suitably mature eucalypts for nesting.

Heleioporus australiacus Giant Burrowing Frog Moderate Not excluded

Hieraaetus morphnoides Little eagle (breeding) Moderate Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitably tall trees for nesting

Hoplocephalus

bungaroides

Broad-headed Snake

(breeding)

Very High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitable sun-exposed rocky escarpments and tree hollows

Isoodon obesulus

obesulus

Southern Brown

Bandicoot (eastern)

High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations do not

contain evidence of post-fire vegetation or regular burning

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot (breeding) Moderate Excluded as the species breeds exclusively in Tasmania

Litoria aurea Green and Golden Bell

Frog

High Not excluded – geotechnical investigation locations are within

1km of wet areas / waterbodies.

Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite

(breeding)

Moderate Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitably large trees for breeding

Miniopterus australis Little Bentwing-Bat

(breeding)


suitable tree hollows for breeding


oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-Bat

(breeding)


suitable caves or man-made structures for breeding.

Mixophyes balbus Stuttering Frog Very High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitable rainforest habitat, and is outside the species normal

range.

Myotis macropus Southern Myotis High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

hollow bearing trees and is greater than 200m from riparian

zones.

Ninox connivens Barking Owl (breeding) High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack

suitable tree hollows for nesting

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl

(breeding)



Petaurus norfolcensis Squirrel Glider High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack the

species preferred box/ironbark woodlands or river red gums.

Petrogale penicillate Brush-tailed Rock-

wallaby

Very High Not excluded – geotechnical investigation locations are within

1km of rocky escarpments.

Petroica rodinogaster Pink Robin High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations are

outside the species normal range

Phascolarctos cinereus Koala (breeding) High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack a

suitable abundance of preferred food trees, as well as other

eucalypts mature enough to shelter in


38


to Gain

Class


Pseudophryne australis Red-crowned Toadlet Moderate Not excluded

Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox

(breeding)

High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations are not

located in close proximity to any known roosting camps.

Sminthopsis leucopus White-footed Dunnart Moderate Not excluded

Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl (breeding) High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack


Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl (breeding) Very High Excluded as the geotechnical investigation locations lack


7.3 Biodiversity Risk Weighting

For streamlined assessments, biodiversity risk weighting is only required for threatened species found on the

geotechnical investigation locations. No threatened species were identified during site visits on 10 and 11

Janurary 2019 and no biodiversity risk weighting was needed.


39

8. Matter of National Environmental Significance

8.1 Threatened ecological communities

One threatened ecological community was identified, namely Illawarra and south coast lowland forest and

woodland ecological community listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act located in the study area at

geotechnical investigation location 6.

8.1.1 Illawarra and South Coast Lowland Forest and Woodland EPBC Listing

The ecological community “Illawarra and South Coast Lowland Forest and Woodland” was placed on the EPBC

Finalised Priority Assessment list in 2014, and the conservation advice and official listing made effective in

2016. The community is comprised of eucalypt forest or woodlands, which can have a grassy ground layer

and/or a shrub layer as well as a small tree layer. The community typically occurs within 30km of the coast, in

coastal valleys and low-lying foothills on the south coast of NSW.

In order for a patch to classify as this EPBC listed community, the patch needs to meet certain key diagnostic

characteristics, as outlined in Table 8.1 below.

Table 8.1: Assessment of the diagnostic characteristics for the critically endangered ecological community

EPBC diagnostic characteristics for the

Illawara and South Coast Lowland Forest

and Woodland ecological community

Criteria met at development site?

Must meet the minimum condition threshold for

moderate condition

The community at the sites meets the Category A High Condition Class where

the patch size of >2ha is present with an understory of >50% native species,

and >6 native species per 0.5ha in the ground layer.

Occurs in the state of NSW in the Jervis, Ettrema,

and Illawarra subregions

The community at the geotechnical investigation site falls within the Ettrema

subregion.

Occurs below 350m ASL, on the coastal plain or

foothills between the immediate coastal strip and the

escarpment

At the site the community occurs on foothills below the escarpment, below

350m ASL.

The ecological community is a forest or woodland

with >10% foliage cover

There is >10% foliage cover provided by trees at the site.

Eucalyptus tereticornis (forest red gum) or

E.longifolia (woollybutt) is typically present and often

dominant in the mature tree canopy. One or more

alternate* canopy species may also be dominant,

especially where there has been selective removal of

trees from some patches of the ecological

community.

*refer to conservation advice document for complete

list

E. tereticornis and E. longifolia were not present in the community at the

development site, however, the community still meets the EPBC criteria as

there is historical evidence of tree removal, and the regrowth was characterised

by E. eugenioides and Angophora floribunda, which are alternative canopy

species listed in the conservation advice document.

The ecological community is characterised by the

plant species described in Appendix A – Species

lists: Table 8*

*refer to conservation advice document for this

appendix

The community at the site was characterised by species such as Acacia

mearnsii, Allocasuarina littoralis, Breynia oblongifolia, Cheilanthes sieberi,

Microlaena stipoides, and Pittosporum undulatum, which are species listed in

the conservation advice document.

8.1.2 MNES Assessment of Significance

Under the EPBC Act, an action will require approval from the Australian Government Environmental Minister if

the actions has, will have, or is likely to have, a significant impact on a matter of national environmental

significance. The “seven-part test” sets out seven impact criteria which are used to assist in determining if the


40

action will result in significant impact, and thus require referral. Below is the seven-part assessment for the

critically endangered Illawarra and South Coast Lowland Forest and Woodland ecological community.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a critically endangered or endangered ecological

community if there is a real chance or possibility that it will:

1. Reduce the extent of an ecological community

The clearing required for the geotechnical investigations will result in the removal of 0.04ha of native vegetation.

This vegetation removal will be limited to the understory and potentially some of the shrub layer. As the trees

will not be impacted by the vegetation removal, and the removal is of a relatively small area, this clearing is not

likely to significantly reduce the extent of this community.

2. Fragment or increase fragmentation of an ecological community

Only 0.04ha of native vegetation removal is required, and this removal will not result in the separation of one

patch of community from another. The community will maintain good connectivity within the patch, and no

fragmentation is likely to occur during or after the vegetation removal and geotechnical activities.

3. Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of an ecological community

Given the limited amount of vegetation removal required, and the avoidance of removal of any trees, there is

unlikely to be a significant impact which affects habitat critical to the survival of the community.

4. Modify or destroy abiotic (non-living) factors (such as water, nutrients, or soil) necessary for an

ecological community’s survival, including reduction of groundwater levels, or substantial

alteration to surface water drainage patterns

Minimal amounts of soil will be removed to facilitate the geotechnical investigations. Surface soil removal is

expected to be minimal and localised to the specific drilling location. This amount of soil removal is unlikely to

significantly impact the surrounding community. Additionally, the drilling is unlikely to affect the groundwater

levels or flow, or the drainage of the surface waters. The nearby waterways such as Kings Creek are also

unlikely to be impacted by the geotechnical work.

5. Create a substantial change in the species composition of an occurrence of an ecological

community, including causing a decline or loss of functionally important species

The clearing of 0.04ha of native vegetation will not result in any changes to the species composition of the

community. The amount of vegetation cleared will be small, and the diversity of the community is such that

clearing the indicated area will not change the range of flora and fauna species currently present within the

community. Functionally important species such as Eucalyptus tereticornis will not be impacted by the

vegetation removal. Significant impacts to the composition of the community is unlikely.

6. Cause a substantial reduction in the quality or integrity of an occurrence of an ecological

community, including, but not limited to:

a. Assisting invasive species, that are harmful to the listed ecological community, to become

established, or

While the clearing of some native vegetation may increase the risk of invasive weeds becoming established, it is

unlikely that there will be a significant risk of harm to the community. As the upper canopy will remain intact, the

spread of weeds due to increased sun exposure is unlikely. Additionally, vehicles will be regularly washed, and

tyres checked for seeds to ensure weeds are not introduced to the site from other areas.

The introduction of invasive fauna species as a result of the geotechnical investigations is unlikely.


41

b. Causing regular mobilisation of fertilisers, herbicides or other chemicals or pollutants into the

ecological community which kill or inhibit the growth of species in the ecological community, or

The geotechnical investigations will not involve the use of either fertilizers or pesticides, and will therefore not

release those pollutants into the surrounding ecological community. There is a possibility for the introduction of

pollutants to occur, for example, from leaking vehicles or drilling equipment. This potential will be mitigated

through regular vehicle inspections and by exercising due diligence while drilling is taking place, including the

preparation of a suitably lined bunded area to prevent off-site discharges. There is unlikely to be a significant

impact on the community due to the introduction of pollutants.

7. Interfere with the recovery of an ecological community

The existing community is currently recovering from tree removal/logging, which we estimate occurred >30

years ago. As the vegetation removal required for the geotechnical investigations will be minimal, and avoid

impacts to the existing trees, the action is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this community.

8.2 Threatened species

Six threatened species listed under the EPBC Act have potential foraging habitat in the study area based on the

habitat assessment in Section 7 shown above. Given that the study area is small, and much of the habitat would

remain intact, these threatened species are considered to have a low likelihood of occurrence and an

assessment of significance is not necessary. Justification for low likelihood of occurrence for each species is

presented below.

Large-eared Pied Bat (listed as vulnerable) may occur in caves within nearby escarpments, and may utilise the

site for foraging. The vegetation clearance and geotechnical work will not impact on any escarpments or

potential roosting habitat for the species. While the vegetation removal will potentially remove some foraging

habitat, the area is well connected to the surrounding landscape and the overall impacts on available foraging

habitat is low.

Green and Golden Bell Frog (listed as endangered) occurs in approximately 50 recorded locations in NSW,

most of which are small, coastal, or near coastal populations. These locations occur over the species’ former

range, however they are widely separated and isolated. Large populations in NSW are located around the

metropolitan areas of Sydney, Shoalhaven and mid north coast. Waterways nearby the study area are unlikely

to support habitat for this species.

Grey-Headed Flying-Fox (listed as vulnerable) may forage in the area. No roost camps are present within the

geotechnical footprint, with the closest recorded roost camp in Kangaroo Valley, approximately 5 km away. The

Grey-headed Flying-fox is likely to limit its foraging in the area to flowering tree species, which will not be

impacted by the vegetation clearance and the overall impacts on available foraging habitat is low.

Regent Honeyeater (listed as critically endangered) may forage in the area. The vegetation clearance will avoid

all trees and remove the shrub layer and understory only. While this will potentially remove some foraging

habitat for the regent honeyeater, the area is well connected to the surrounding landscape and the overall

impacts on available foraging habitat is low.

Giant Burrowing Frog (listed as vulnerable) may occur in the area. The geotechnica investigations will not

impact upon the nearby Kings Creek, and will thus have no impact on the frog’s potential breeding ground. The

frogs may utiluse other space within the vegetation clearing site as habitat during the non-breeding season.

Given that the impacted area consists of a very small portion within a highly connected landscape, any impacts

on the burrowing frog are likely to be low.

Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby (listed as endangered) may utilise the boulders, outcrops and escaprments which

occur near the site. These rock areas will not be impacted by the geotechnical investigations, and any adjactent

vegetation clearance will be minimal, and is unlikely to impact the resources available to the Brush-tailed Rock-

wallaby.


42

8.3 Migratory species

Under the EPBC Act, an action requires approval from the Australian Government Environmental Minister if the

actions has, will have, or is likely to have a significant impact on a listed migratory species. An action is likely to

have a significant impact on a migratory species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will:

• Substantially modify (including by fragmenting, altering fire regimes, altering nutrient cycles or altering

hydrological cycles), destroy or isolate an area of important habitat for a migratory species

• Result in an invasive species that is harmful to the migratory species becoming established in an area of

important habitat for the migratory species, or

• Seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migration or resting behaviour) of an ecologically

significant proportion of the population of a migratory species.

An area of ‘important habitat’ for a migratory species is:

• Habitat used by a migratory species occasionally or periodically within a region that supports an

ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species, and/or

• Habitat that is of critical importance to the species at particular life-cycle stages, and/or

• Habitat used by a migratory species which is at the limit of the species range, and/or

• Habitat within an area where the species is declining.

• Listed migratory species cover a broad range of species with different life cycles and population sizes.

Therefore, what is an ‘ecologically significant proportion’ of the population varies with the species. Some

factors that should be considered include the species’ population status, genetic distinctiveness and

species specific behavioural patterns (for example, site fidelity and dispersal rates). These factors have

been considered in the following assessment.

Sixteen listed migratory species were identified in the EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool as potentially

occurring the locality based on the distributional range of the species and modelled habitat in the area. These

species are listed in the table below.

Table 6-2 EPBC listed migratory species identified by the Protected Matters Search Tool

Species Potential to Utilize the Site?

Migratory Terrestrial Species

Fork Tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) Yes

Horsfield’s Cuckoo (Cuculus optatus) Yes

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) Yes

Black-faced Monarch (Monarcha melanopsis) Yes

Spectacled Monarch (Monarcha trivirgatus) Yes

Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava) No – outside of normal range

Stain Flycatcher (Myiagra cyanoleuca) Yes

Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) Yes

Migratory Wetland Species

Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) No

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata) No

Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) No


43

Species Potential to Utilize the Site?

Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos) No

Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) No

Eastern Curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) No

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) No

Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) No

Seven of the eight woodland species listed are considered likely to fly over and forage within the geotechnical

investigations site, but would not likely use it as long-term habitat. While the area may provide some foraging

opportunity for the woodland species, the site would not be classified as an “important habitat”. The remaining

eight wetland species are not likely to utilise the study area. An assessment of significance for Migratory

species is provided as follows:

Substantially modify (including by fragmenting, altering fire regimes, altering nutrient cycles or altering

hydrological cycles), destroy or isolate an area of important habitat for a migratory species

The geotechnical investigation locations are not considered to provide important habitat for migratory species

and are unlikely to substantially modify the habitat present.

The geotechnical investigation locations provide only marginal habitat for terrestrial migratory birds species and

are very unlikely to support important habitat. This is further supported by the generally poor condition of

vegetation within. There are no breeding records from the site or surrounds and the extent of habitat remaining

in the study area would provide sufficient resources to sustain future visitation.

Based on the minor and temporary nature of the geotechnical investigations, the avoidance of habitat features

in locating works areas and access tracks and the low to moderate condition of plant community types and

threatened ecological communities present it is considered unlikely that the geotechnical investigations would

substantially modify the habitat present. Following completion of geotechnical investigations, all locations would

be allowed to, or actively managed to, rehabilitate to their current standard.

Result in an invasive species that is harmful to the migratory species becoming established in an area

of important habitat for the migratory species

As discussed above, there is no evidence to suggest that an area of important habitat exists in the study area for

any listed migratory species. Suitable measures are proposed to control the spread of weeds during the

implementation of the geotechnical investigations.

Seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migration or resting behaviour) of an ecologically

significant proportion of the population of a migratory species

The background searches and field investigations found no evidence to suggest that an area of ‘important

habitat’ exists at the site for a migratory species, or that the study area is occupied by an ecologically significant

proportion of the populations of migratory species. The minor and temporary nature of the geotechnical

investigations would be unlikely to disrupt the lifecycle of migratory species.

Based on the above, it is therefore unlikely that the proposed works would impact on any listed migratory

species.


44

9. Impact Assessment

This section of the BDAR demonstrates the efforts taken to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values in

accordance with Section 8 of the BAM.

Combined with appropriate mitigation measures and safeguards, the siting and planning of the geotechnical

investigations is expected to be sufficient to ensure that the requirements to avoid and minimise impacts on

biodiversity values as set out in Section 8 of the BAM are met. The geotechnical investigation locations and

temporary access tracks have been selected to avoid impacts on biodiversity values to the greatest extent

possible.

A key part of Origin Energy’s management of biodiversity for the geotechnical investigations is the application of

the ‘avoid, minimise, mitigate and offset’ hierarchy as follows:

1) Avoid and minimise impacts as the highest priority;

2) Mitigate impacts where avoidance is not feasible or practicable in the particular circumstance; and

3) Offset where residual, significant unavoidable impacts would occur (if required).

9.1 Avoiding and minimising impacts on native vegetation and habitat

The selection of geotechnical investigation locations has been undertaken to target the locations of key

components of the Shoalhaven Hydro Expansion Project with most susceptibility to geotechnical risks, while

avoiding to the extend possible the need for clearing or ground disturbance.

The geotechnical investigations would impact on a total of 0.21 hectares of native vegetation, including:

• 0.06 ha of Endangered Ecological Communities (EECs) or Critically Endangered Ecological Communities

(CEECs); and

• 0.21 ha of PCTs that contain threatened species habitat.

To avoid and minimise impacts, four of the eight locations have been positioned in cleared and previously

disturbed areas with existing established access tracks. For the remaining four locations, clearing is being

minimised through:

• The restricted to access tracks 2 metres wide;

• Clearing only native shrubs where necessary and lopping of low lying tree branches;

• Avoiding habitat features;

• Using existing open spaces within the PCTs where available; and

• Limiting geotechnical investigation works areas to under 20m x 20m in size.

There is no area of land that the Minister for Environment has declared as an area of outstanding biodiversity

value in accordance with Section 3.1 of the BC Act;

There are no riparian areas of 4th order or higher streams and rivers, important wetlands or estuaries; or State

significant biodiversity links.

9.2 Avoiding and minimising prescribed biodiversity impacts

Some types of projects may have impacts on biodiversity values in addition to, or instead of, impacts from

clearing vegetation and/or loss of habitat. For many of these impacts, the biodiversity values may be difficult to

quantify, replace or offset, making avoiding and minimising impacts critical.

The BC Regulation (clause 6.1) identifies actions that are prescribed as impacts to be assessed under the

biodiversity offsets scheme:

a) Impacts of development on the habitat of threatened species or ecological communities associated with:


45

i. karst, caves, crevices, cliffs and other geological features of significance; or

ii. rocks; or

iii. human made structures; or

iv. non-native vegetation.

4) Impacts of development on the connectivity of different areas of habitat of threatened species that

facilitates the movement of those species across their range;

5) Impacts of development on movement of threatened species that maintains their life cycle;

6) Impacts of development on water quality, water bodies and hydrological processes that sustain threatened

species and threatened ecological communities (including from subsidence or upsidence resulting from

underground mining);

7) Impacts of wind turbine strikes on protected animals; and

8) Impacts of vehicle strikes on threatened species or on animals that are part of a TEC.

There are no impacts to:

• Karst, caves, crevices, cliffs and other geological features of significance; or

• water quality, water bodies and hydrological processes that sustain threatened species and threatened

ecological communities.

Rock habitats are present near geotechenical locations 3, 4 and 5. The project has deliberately selected an

access route and drilling locations to avoid exposed rocks and outcrops. None of the listed habitat features

would be impacted.

The geotechnical investigations are not a wind farm development so turbine strike is not an issue. The

geotechnical investigations do not involve construction or upgrade of a roadway so vehicle strike is not an

impact requiring consideration.

9.3 Assessment of impacts

9.3.1 Impacts on native vegetation and habitat

There is native vegetation (according to the definition of native vegetation provided in the LLS Act – see Section

3.8) in the development site (see Figure 6.1). Impacts on native vegetation and habitat is assessed in

accordance with Subsections 9.1.2, 9.1.3 and 9.1.4 of the BAM. This includes:

• describing impacts on clearing of native vegetation, threatened ecological communities and threatened

species habitat

• describing the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of indirect impacts of the proposal

• describing the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of prescribed biodiversity impacts relevant to

the proposal

• evaluating the consequences of indirect impacts on biodiversity values

• evaluating the consequences of prescribed biodiversity impacts

• documenting any limitations to data, assumptions and predictions with respect to impacts on biodiversity

Assessing the impact of clearing native vegetation, threatened ecological communities and threatened

species habitat.

The geotechnical investigations will involve accessing eight locations for drilling, approximately 20m x 20m in

size. Temporary access tracks will be 2 metres wide to avoid impacts to vegetation.

• Locations 1, 2, 7 and 8 are located on existing cleared land and access tracks, and no clearing of

vegetation is required.


46

• Locations 3, 4 and 5 will be accessed along temporary access tracks, utilising a paper road via an

overgrown gate on Jacks Corner Road. Removal of native shrubs will be required to gain access through

the gate, including Acacia irrorata and Bursaria spinosa. The first portion of the paper road is devoid of

shrubs and trees for around 50 metres. Access to Location 3 will require removal of some native shrubs

and lopping of low tree branches. Species affected will include Persoonia linearis, Leptospermum

polygalifolium, Acacia obtusifolia, Melaleuca thymifolia, Acacia ulicifoila, Melaleuca linariifolia, Breynia

obtusifolia and Leucopogon juniperinus shrubs and branches of Eucalyptus scias subsp. callimastha,

Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and Eucalyptus eugenioides. From Location 3 through to Location

5, access through dense regrowth of Kunzea ambigua and Hakea salicifolia is required and shrubs will be

removed. No trees, hollows, large logs, surface rocks will be removed during access and drilling.

• Access to Location 6 will involve using existing tracks and cleared areas as much as possible. These

locations are within threatened ecological communities Illawarra Lowlands Grassy Woodland in the Sydney

Basin Bioregion and River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains of the New South Wales North

Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregions. Only removal of several senescent Acacia

mearnsii and lopping of some branches will be required. The groundcover is generally dense native grass

comprising Microlaena stipoides and leaf litter and will generally remain intact, particularly along tracks.

The future value scores for native vegetation after impact was estimated with the assumption of removing all

native shrubs and minor disturbance of groundcover within the study area. The BAM calculator was used to

estimate future condition scores for composition, structure by changing shrub growth form to zero and reducing

other growth form groups (except trees) in the groundcover by half for each growth form group to account for

minor disturbances from drilling at geotechnical investigation locations. Lopping of tree branches was

considered negligible and tree growth form wasn’t changed. It is also assumed that High Threat Weed cover of

abundance would remain unchanged with weed manangement measures in place. Future condition scores are

presented in Table 9.1. Future function condition scores remained unchanged, as the proposed works would

avoid impacts to these biodiversity values.


47

Table 9.1: Estimated future mean vegetation composition and structure scores after impact

Zone Trees Shrubs

Grasses &

grass like Forbs Ferns Other

Future VI scores

N.

spp

Cover N.

spp

Cover N.

spp

Cover N.

spp

Cover N.

spp

Cover N.

spp

Cover Composition Structure

1 4 14.6 0 0 3 3.6 6 0.6 1.5 0.15 3.5 0.45 38.6 4.5

2 8 24.3 0 0 3 0.16 5 0.5 0.5 0.05 4.5 0.45 35.7 12.2

3 6 16.8 0 0 5 0.6 7.5 0.8 1 0.15 2.5 0.3 50.7 9.3

4 1 0.3 0 0 1.5 41.5 4.8 2.4 0.8 0.1 1 0.2 22.7 43.4


48

Change in the vegetaton integrity score for clearing of native vegetation, threatened ecological

communities threatened species habitat

The change in the vegetation integrity (VI) score is a measure of the direct impact on native vegetation and

habitat in the area. The future vegetation score was calculated by assuming a clearing of all existing vegetation

except for the tree layer. Shrubs were also assumed to be completely cleared. Leaf litter coverage and fallen

timber was assumed to remain unchanged.

Table 9.2 shows the calculated change in the VI score after the clearing of the required area.

Table 9.2: Change in Vegetation Integrity (VI) Score for all PCTs impacted by the vegetation removal

Plant Community Type Corresponding Threatened

Ecological Community (TEC)

Removal

Footprint

Area (ha)

Current VI

Score

Future VI

Score

Change in

VI Score

Turpentine - Red Bloodwood - Sydney

Peppermint shrubby open forest on the

foothills, southern Sydney Basin

Bioregion and northern South East

Corner Bioregion (PCT 1283)

N/A 0.11 47.9 20.4 -27.5

Sydney Blue Gum x Bangalay - Lilly Pilly

moist forest in gullies and on sheltered

slopes, southern Sydney Basin Bioregion

(PCT 1245)

N/A 0.04 58.8 30.5 -28.3

Forest Red Gum - Thin-leaved

Stringybark grassy woodland on coastal

lowlands, southern Sydney Basin

Bioregion (PCT 838)

Illawarra Lowlands Grassy

Woodland in the Sydney Basin

Bioregion (BC Act)

Illawarra and south coast lowland

forest and woodland ecological

community (EPBC Act)

0.04 36.2 28.4 -7.9

River Peppermint - Rough-barked Apple

- River Oak herb/grass riparian forest of

coastal lowlands, southern Sydney Basin

Bioregion and South East Corner


River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on

Coastal Floodplains of the New

South Wales North Coast, Sydney

Basin and South East Corner

Bioregions (BC Act)

0.02 48.9 32.4 -16.5

Total 0.21

The reduction in vegetation integrity score is largely a result of the reduction of biodiversity values in the study

area due to the clearing of the shrub layer and understorey.

Assessing indirect impacts on native vegetation and habitat

Indirect impacts would be limited to edge effects in areas of cleared native shrubs along access tracks. The

construction and operation of the geotechnical investigations is restricted to a discreet area and there are no

adjoining areas of native vegetation beyond the geotechnical investigation locations that would be impacted. All

equipment and resources (wastewater) brought on to site will be contained and removed from site after

completion. All native vegetation will already regrowing from previous distrubances and will recover after

proposed geotechnical works. Although a small amount of fauna foraging habitat will be removed it will not

create a barrier or restrict food resources or shelter.

Proliferation of weed and pest species is an indirect impact (i.e. not a direct result of proposal activities). The

most likely causes of weed dispersal and importation associated with the geotechnical investigations include

movement of soil and attachment of seed (and other propagules) to vehicles and machinery during


49

transportation to and from the geotechnical investigation locations. High threat weed species Ligustrum sinense,

Ageratina riparia, and Araujia sericifera are present near and within Locations 6.

Several pathogens known from NSW have potential to impact on biodiversity as a result their movement and

infection during construction. Of these, three are listed as a key threatening process under either the EPBC Act

and/or BC Act including:

• Dieback caused by Phytophthora (Root Rot; EPBC Act and BC Act);

• Infection of frogs by amphibian chytrid fungus causing the disease chytridiomycosis (EPBC Act and BC

Act); and

• Introduction and establishment of exotic Rust Fungi of the order Pucciniales on plants of the family

Myrtaceae (BC Act).

While these pathogens were not observed or tested for in the study area the potential for pathogens to occur

should be treated as a risk during geotechnical investigations. The most likely causes of pathogen dispersal and

importation associated with the geotechnical investigations include minor earthworks, movement of soil, and

attachment of plant matter to vehicles and machinery during all of the project phases (construction and

operation).

There is potential for impacts to fauna from noise and vibration during geotechnical investigations, which may

result in fauna temporarily avoiding habitats adjacent to the construction. The magnitude of this impact would be

low and mitigation measures are not deemed necessary.

9.3.2 Prescribed biodiversity impacts

Impacts of development on rocks that provide habitat for threatened species

The assessment of the impacts of the geotechnical investigations on the habitat of threatened species or

ecological communities associated with rocks must:

• Identify the species and ecological communities likely to use the habitat;

• Describe, with reference to relevent literature and other reliable published sources of information, the

importatnce of scattered rock for connectivity and refuge nature;

• Predict the nature, extent and duration of short and long-term impacts due to rock removal; and

• Predict the consequences of the impacts for the local and bioregional persistence of the suite of threatened

species and communities likely to use these areas as habitat, with reference to relevant literature and other

published sources of information.

Rock habitats are present near geotechnical investigation locations 3, 4 and 5. The project has deliberately

selected temporary access routes and drilling locations to avoid exposed rocks and outcrops. No rocky habitats

will be removed. Geotechical drilling would disturb potential subsurface bedrock near these locations, but is

unlikely to affect habitat used by threatened species such as Broad-headed Snake or Rosenberg’s Goanna.

Impacts of development on the connectivity of different areas of habitat of threatened species that

facilitates the movement of those species across their range

The geotechnical investigation locations 3, 4, 5 and 6 are located within a dense native vegetation regrowth

where the majority of habitats have connectivity to larger contiguous areas of intact native vegetation . The

habitats are not fragmented or isolated and facilitate the movement of threatened species across the landscape.

There is physical habitat connectivity through native vegetation and associated with Kings Creek.

Functional connectivity exists for ground, arboreal and flying animals such as mammals,reptiles, birds and bats,

as well as frogs in proximity to waterways.

The geotechnical investigations are considered unlikely to have a detrimental effect on habitat connectivity. The

works are unlikely to directly impact fauna corridors but rather require lopping and trimming of tree branches


50

and clearing of shrubs along temporary access tracks. The only ground disturbance activity that will occur at the

temporary work areas will be the drilling of the borehole itself. The threatened species that may use the

geotechnical investigation locations are capable flyers able to cover large distances between habitat patches.

Other ground species will still be able to travel through area after work is complete without any impediments.

The habitats in the geotechnical investigation locations are unlikely to be important or unique in the landscape

and the geotechnical investigations will have no effect on the current dispersal and movement of species

throughout the locality. No barriers to movement will be introduced and no further fragmentation of habitats will

occur. Mitigation is not required as there will be negligible impact to the bioregional persistence of threatened

species that currently benefit from the limited connectivity in the locality.

Impacts of the development on movement of threatened species that maintains their life cycle

The assessment of the impacts of the geotechnical investigations on movement of threatened species that

maintains their life cycle must:

• identify movement patterns key to the life cycle of relevant threatened species that intersect with the study

area;

• describe the nature, extent and duration of short and long-term impacts;

• describe, with reference to relevant literature and other reliable published sources of information, the

importance of the movement of the threatened species to their life cycle; and

• predict the consequences of the impacts for the bioregional persistence of the threatened species, with

reference to relevant literature and other published sources of information.

The geotechnical investigation locations are located within a dense native vegetation regrowth where the

majority of habitats have connectivity to larger contiguous areas of intact native vegetation . The habitats are not

fragmented or isolated and facilitate the movement of threatened species across the landscape. There is

physical habitat connectivity through native vegetation and associated with Kings Creek near the geotechnical

investigation locations.

Functional connectivity exists for ground, arboreal and flying animals such as mammals,reptiles, birds and bats,

as well as frogs in proximity to waterways.

The geotechnical investigations are considered unlikely to have a detrimental effect on movement of threatened

species. The geotechnical investigations are unlikely to direct impact fauna corridors but rather require lopping

and trimming of tree branches and clearing of shrubs along access tracks and minor ground disturbance at

drilling sites.

No barriers to movement will be introduced and no further fragmentation of habitats will occur. The geotechnical

investigations locations are not part of a recognised movement corridor between breeding grounds, foraging

grounds, or other habitats important for the lifecycle of species such as staging points for migration. Mitigation is

not required as there will be negligible impact to the bioregional persistence of threatened species that currently

benefit from the limited connectivity in the locality.


IA193700 51

10. Mitigating and management impacts on biodiversity values

Once all practicable steps to avoid or minimise impacts have been implemented at the design phase, mitigation

measures will be implemented to further lessen the potential ecological impacts of the geotechnical

investigations. Mitigation measures are to be undertaken during the construction and operational phases. The

proposed techniques for implementing mitigation measures are outlined below.

The geotechnical investigations will not result in:

• removal of breeding habitat or other habitat features during construction;

• disruption to established home ranges; and

• disruption to connections between suitable habitat for foraging and dispersal.

The main impacts associated with the geotechnical investigations are those resulting from the removal of native

shrubs and lopping of native tree branches. The potential for fauna injury or death during construction may

potentially occur due to the good condition of native vegetation and connectivity to large areas of vegetation.

10.1 Native vegetation and flora habitat

The following avoidance measures would be implemented to ensure impacts to existing vegetation and habitat

is minimised:

• Where possible, vegetation clearance has been avoided or minimised through appropriate siting of the

geotechnical investigation locations and associated access routes in the identified locations in this report;

• Modified and degraded areas such as trails and easements have been utilised where possible;

• Lopping and direct avoidance should always be used to protect tree cover where possible, this could involve

tying back tree branches during the investigation rather than lopping;

• Native vegetation shrub and ground cover should be driven over rather than completely removed where

possible to minimise direct impacts to smaller shrubs and tree seedlings;

• The drip-line of remnant trees is to be avoided including storing materials and equipment, and when

undertaking excavations;

• No native vegetation material should be removed from site; and

• Stockpile, storage and depot sites should be situated in cleared/disturbed areas, such as maintained

grassland areas and industrial lands.

10.2 Fauna habitat

Habitat disturbance for threatened fauna species is generally limited to regenerating shrubs and lopping of tree

branches. The following mitigation measures (as well as those listed above) would minimise fauna mortality and

injury and avoid impacts to important habitats.

No trees, hollows, large logs, surface rocks will be removed during access and drilling.

Excavations should not be left open overnight to avoid trapping fauna. If this unavoidable excavations are to be

inspected prior to work commencing and any trapped fauna relocated into adjacent habitats. Excavations would

be backfilled as soon as possible after work on them has been completed.

10.3 Weeds and High Threat Weeds

The use of the construction machinery and exposure of the ground surface could potentially result in increased

spread of weeds including high threat weed species Ligustrum sinense, Ageratina riparia, and Araujia sericifera

in Locations 6. Weed management practices need to be incorporated into the geotechnical investigation

activities to minimise the spread of weeds.


IA193700 52

10.4 Water quality and hydrology

The preservation of water quality is an important issue which needs to be managed effectively. Activities

adjacent to Trimbles Creek. upslope of Knigs Creek and up slope and within the Kangaroo Valley River

floodplain need to be managed to minimise sediment laden, high nutrient run-off as well as hydrocarbons and

other pollutants associated with machinery. The following mitigation measures are required to minimise

potential impacts to water quality and hydrology regimes:

• At geotechnical investigation locations where there is a groundcover, no excavation should be undertaken

and the existing ground layer should be protected and allowed to re-establishment following completion of

works to minimise the area of exposed soil and encourage the regeneration of the existing native species;

• Best-practice sediment and erosion controls would be adopted where required to prevent impacts to water

quality and minimise run-off into adjacent ecologically sensitive areas where present; and

• Appropriate measures to store and manage fuels and oils are to be adopted and spill containment equipment

would be carried at all times.

10.5 Induction of Construction Personnel

Geotechnical field personnel would be made aware of the importance of the surrounding areas of threatened

ecological communities and fauna habitats in the area. All geotechnical field personnel would be inducted prior

to commencing and be made aware of their environmental responsibilities, including the preservation and

avoidance of vegetation.


IA193700 53

11. Thresholds for the assessment and offsetting of impacts of development

The assessment of site context, native vegetation, threatened ecological communities and the assessment of

habitat suitability for threatened species under Stage 1 of the BAM, and the location of the project in an existing

landscape suggest that the geotechnical investigation locations are appropriate for the activity.

This section of the BDAR identifies the impact thresholds that the assessor must apply including:

b) Impacts on a potential entity that are serious and irreversible impacts;

c) Impacts for which the assessor is required to determine an offset requirement; and

d) Impacts that do not require further assessment by the assessor.

11.1 Biodiversity Offset Scheme Threshold

The Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Threshold is a test used to determine when it is necessary to apply the BAM to

assess the impacts of the proposal. The threshold has two elements which indicate when the Offsets Scheme

will be triggered:

1. Whether the amount of native vegetation being cleared exceeds a threshold area as set out below, or;

2. Whether the impacts occur on an area mapped on the Biodiversity Values map published by the Minister

for the Environment.

11.2 Area Clearing Threshold

The threshold for clearing varies depending on the minimum lot size associated with the property. The range of

lots sizes and their associated clearing thresholds are displayed in Table 11.1.

Table 11.1: Clearing threholds for biodiversity offset scheme

Minimum lot size associated with the property Threshold for clearing, above which the BAM and

offsets scheme apply

Less than 1 ha 0.25 ha or more

1 ha to 40 ha 0.5 ha or more

40 ha to less than 1000 ha 1 ha or more

1000 ha or more 2 ha or more

The geotechnical investigation locations will require clearing of less than 0.25 ha of native vegetation, and thus

does not trigger the threshold for the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme. The geotechnical investigation locations also

do not fall within area mapped on the Biodiversity Values map, and does not trigger the threshold for the

Biodiversity Offsets Scheme.

No further assessment of offsets is required by the assessor.

11.3 Impacts on a potential entity that are serious and irreversible impacts

There are no impacts on a potential entity that are serious and irreversible impacts. There will be no impacts to

a potential serious and irreversible impact entity that is listed in the Guidance to assist a decision-maker to

determine a serious and irreversible impact that would be impacted on by the proposed development.

The geotechnical investigations will not have any serious and irreversible impacts.


IA193700 54

12. Summary and Conclusions

The Biodiversity Offset Scheme applies to State Significant Infrastructure projects unless the Secretary of the

Department of Planning and Environment and the Chief Executive of OEH determine that the project is not likely

to have a significant impact. This document is the BDAR for the project as required under the Biodiversity

Assessment Method (BAM). This BDAR documents the results of the biodiversity streamlined assessment

undertaken for the geotechnical investigations is in line with the relevant State and Commonwealth

environmental and threatened species legislation and policy.

Based on the minor and temporary nature of the geotechnical investigations, the avoidance of habitat features

in locating works areas and access tracks and the low to moderate condition of plant community types and

threatened ecological communities present it is considered unlikely that significant impacts to biodiversity values

would occur. Following completion of the geotechnical investigations, all locations would be allowed to, or

actively managed to, rehabilitate to their current standard.

There is unlikely to be any significant impacts to any threatened ecological communities and threatened or

migratory species listed as a Matter of National Environmental Significance. The geotechnical investigations do

not require a referral to the Federal Department of the Environment and Energy for these matters.

Other impacts relevant to the geotechnical investigations in relation to the BAM include prescribed impacts. The

prescribed impacts of relevance include:

• Impacts of development on rocks that provide habitat for threatened species;

• Impacts of development on the connectivity of different areas of habitat of threatened species that

facilitates the movement of those species across their range; and

• Impacts of the development on movement of threatened species that maintains their life cycle.

The effects of the prescribed impacts are considered to be minor in the context of the geotechnical

investigations and would likely be avoided.

There are no impacts on a potential entity that are serious and irreversible impacts. Overall, the biodiversity

impacts of the geotechnical investigations are considered to be minor but some mitigation is required and will be

planned.

The threshold for clearing for the geotechnical investigations is less than 0.25 hectares based on a minimum lot

size less than 1 hectare. The geotechnical investigation locations will require clearing of 0.21 hectare of native

vegetation, and thus does not trigger the threshold for the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme. As a result, no

ecosystem credits are required. An offset requirement for species credit species cannot be calculated in

accordance with Chapter 11 of the BAM. No species credits are required.

No clearing or permant impacts are proposed in areas areas mapped as lkey fish banitat and with all drilling

water and wastes to be contained and disposed of off site no impacts to Key Fish Habitat are likely.


IA193700 55

13. References

Department Of Environment And Climate Change. (2008). Descriptions for NSW (Mitchell) Landscapes Version

2 (2002) [Online]. Available:

http://maps.environment.nsw.gov.au/Metadata/NSW%20Landscapes%20descriptions.pdf 2010].

NSW National Parks And Wildlife Service. (2002). Landscapes (Mitchell) of NSW. Hurstville NSW National

Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW Office Of Environment And Heritage (2011). Climate Change Corridors (Dry Habitat) for North East NSW.

Bioregional Assessment Source Dataset.

NSW Office Of Environement And Heritage, (2017). Biodiversiy Assessment Method. NSW Government.

SA Department Of Environment Water And Natural Resources. (2015). IBRA Subregion Australia Version 7.0 -

PED. Bioregional Assessment Source Dataset. [Online]. Available:

http://data.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/dataset/e5a6d60a-009c-4fc3-b27d-67ed108b38ba.

Tozer MG, Turner K, Keith DA, Tindall D, Pennay C, Simpson C, MacKenzie B, Beukers P (2010) Native

vegetation of southeast NSW: a revised classification and map for the coast and eastern tablelands.

Cunninghamia 11, 359-406. Botanic gardens Trust, Sydney

http://maps.environment.nsw.gov.au/Metadata/NSW%20Landscapes%20descriptions.pdf

http://data.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/dataset/e5a6d60a-009c-4fc3-b27d-67ed108b38ba


IA193700

Appendix A. Likelihood of occurrence

Likelihood of occurrence indicates how likely it is that a threatened species will be present within the study area. Species are assigned a likelihood of occurrence from unlikely

to high based on the following criteria:

Likelihood of Occurrence Criteria

Unlikely • Species highly restricted to certain geographical areas not within the proposal footprint

• Species has specific habitat requirements that are not present in the study area

Low Species that fit into one or more of the following criteria:

• Have not been recorded previously in the study area/surrounds, and for which the study area is beyond the current distribution range

• Use specific habitats or resources not present in the study area.

• Are non-cryptic perennial flora species that were targeted by surveys and were not recorded.

Moderate Species that fit into one or more of the following criteria:

• Have infrequently been recorded previously in the study area/surrounds

• Use specific habitats or resources present in the study area but it poor or modified condition

• Are unlikely to maintain sedentary populations, however may seasonally use resources within the study area opportunistically or during

migration

• Are cryptic flowering species what were not seasonally targeted by surveys and have not been recorded.

High Species that fit into one or more of the following criteria:

• Have frequently been recorded previously in the study area/surrounds

• Use habitat types or resources that are present in the study area in abundance and/or in good condition

• Are known or likely to maintain resident populations surrounding the study area

• Are known or likely to visit the site during regular seasonal movements or migration


IA193700

Species BC Act EPBC Act Distribution and Habitat Data Source

*see notes on page 1

Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

*BAM P: Means species was listed in the BAM Predicted Species Report based on PCTs

*BAM C: Means the species was listed in the BAM Candidate Species Report based on PCTs

*# records: number of records from OEH BioNet Species Sightings Search

Birds

Burhinus grallarius

Bush Stone-curlew

E - Open forests and woodlands with a sparse grassy

ground layer and fallen timber.

BAM C Low Year round

Calyptorhynchus lathami

Glossy Black-Cockatoo

V - The species is uncommon although widespread

throughout suitable forest and woodland habitats,

from the central Queensland coast to East Gippsland

in Victoria, and inland to the southern tablelands and

central western plains of NSW, with a small

population in the Riverina. An isolated population

exists on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Inhabits

open forest and woodlands of the coast and the Great

Dividing Range where stands of Sheoak occur. Black

Sheoak (Allocasuarina littoralis) and Forest Sheoak

(A. torulosa) are important foods. Inland populations

feed on a wide range of Sheoaks, including Drooping

Sheoak, Allocasuarina diminuta, and A. gymnanthera.

Belah is also utilised and may be a critical food

source for some populations. In the Riverina, birds

are associated with hills and rocky rises supporting

Drooping Sheoak, but also recorded in open

woodlands dominated by Belah (Casuarina cristata).

BioNet Atlas 8

Records

BAM P

Low

Mar-Aug

Lathamus discolor

Swift Parrot

E CE Where eucalypts are flowering profusely or where

there is abundant lerp infestations. Favour Swamp

Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta), Spotted Gum

(Corymbia maculata), Red Ironbark (E. sideroxylon),

and White Box (E. albens).

PMST

BAM P C

Low May-Aug


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Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Botaurus poiciloptilus

Australasian Bittern

E E Occurs from south-east Queensland to south-east

South Australia, Tasmania and the south-west of

Western Australia. Occurs in terrestrial freshwater

wetlands and, rarely, estuarine habitats.

PMST

BAM P

Low

Calidris ferruginea

Curlew Sandpiper

E CE The breeding range of the Curlew Sandpiper is mainly

restricted to the Arctic of northern Siberia, including

Yamal Peninsula east to Kolyuchiskaya Gulf,

Chokotka Peninisula, and also New Siberian Island.

Curlew Sandpipers mainly occur on intertidal mudflats

in sheltered coastal areas, such as estuaries, bays,

inlets and lagoons, and also around non-tidal

swamps, lakes and lagoons near the coast, and

ponds in salt works and sewage farms.

PMST Low

Numenius madagascariensis

Eastern Curlew

- CE Within Australia, the Eastern Curlew has a primarily

coastal distribution. The species is found in all states,

particularly the north, east, and south-east regions

including Tasmania. The Eastern Curlew is most

commonly associated with sheltered coasts,

especially estuaries, bays, harbours, inlets and

coastal lagoons, with large intertidal mudflats or sand

flats, often with beds of seagrass.

PMST Low

Grantiella picta

Painted Honeyeater

V V Nomadic and occurs at low densities throughout its

range. The greatest concentrations of the bird and

almost all breeding occurs on the inland slopes of the

Great Dividing Range in NSW, Victoria and southern

Queensland. During the winter it is more likely to be

found in the north of its distribution. Inhabits Boree,

Brigalow and Box-Gum Woodlands and Box-Ironbark

Forests.

PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

A specialist feeder on the fruits of mistletoes growing

on woodland eucalypts and acacias. Prefers

mistletoes of the genus Amyema.

Rostratula australis

Australian Painted Snipe

E E Most records are from the south east, particularly the

Murray Darling Basin, with scattered records across

northern Australia and historical records from around

the Perth region in Western Australia. Prefers fringes

of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas where

there is a cover of grasses, lignum, low scrub or open

timber. Nests on the ground amongst tall vegetation,

such as grasses, tussocks or reeds.

PMST Unlikely

Lophoictinia isura

Square-tailed Kite

V - In NSW it is often associated with ridge and gully

forests dominated by Eucalyptus longifolia, Corymbia

maculata, E. elata, or E. smithii. Individuals appear to

occupy large hunting ranges of more than 100 km2.

They require large living trees for breeding,

particularly near water with surrounding woodland

/forest close by for foraging habitat. Nest sites are

generally located along or near watercourses, in a

tree fork or on large horizontal limbs.

BioNet Atlas 1

Record

BAM P C

Low Sep-Jan

Hieraaetus morphnoides

Little Eagle

V - Occupies open eucalypt forest, woodland or open

woodland. Sheoak or Acacia woodlands and riparian

woodlands of interior NSW are also used.

BAM P C Low Aug-Oct

Haliaeetus leucogaster

White-bellied Sea-Eagle

V M Found in coastal habitats and terrestrial wetlands in

tropical and temperate regions of mainland Australia

and its offshore islands. Nests require living or dead

mature trees within suitable vegetation within 1km of

rivers, lakes, large dams or creeks, wetlands and

coastlines

BAM P C Low Jul-Dec


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Ninox connivens

Barking Owl

V - Inhabits woodland and open forest, including

fragmented remnants and partially cleared farmland.

Hunting can extend into closed forests and more open

areas. Require hollows of large old trees, living

eucalypts preferred.

BAM P C Low May-Dec

Ninox strenua

Powerful Owl

V - Inhabits a range of vegetation types, from woodland

and open sclerophyll forest to tall open wet forest and

rainforest. Requires large tracts of forest or woodland

habitat but can occur in fragmented landscapes as

well. Breeds and hunts in open or closed sclerophyll

forest or woodlands and occasionally hunts in open

habitats. Roosts by day in dense vegetation

comprising species such as Turpentine Syncarpia

glomulifera, Black She-oak Allocasuarina littoralis,

Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon, Rough-barked Apple

Angophora floribunda, Cherry Ballart Exocarpus

cupressiformis and a number of eucalypt species.

BAM P C Low May-Aug

Pandion cristatus

Eastern Osprey

V M Global distribution with four subspecies previously

recognised throughout its range. Favour coastal

areas, especially the mouths of large rivers, lagoons

and lakes. Nests are made high in trees, usually

within one kilometre of the sea.

BAM P C Low Apr-Nov

Tyto novaehollandiae

Masked Owl

V - Dry eucalypt forests and woodland, typically prefers

open forest with low shrub density. Requires old trees

for roosting and nesting.

BAM P C Low May-Aug

Tyto tenebricosa

Sooty Owl

V - Occupies the coast, coastal escarpment and eastern

tablelands. Occurs in rainforest, including dry

rainforest, subtropical and warm temperate rainforest,

as well as most eucalypt forests. Nests in very large

tree hollows.

BAM P C Low Apr-Aug


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Circus assimilis

Spotted Harrier

V - The Spotted Harrier occurs throughout the Australian

mainland, except in densely forested or wooded

habitats of the coast, escarpment and ranges, and

rarely in Tasmania. Individuals disperse widely in

NSW and comprise a single population. Occurs in

grassy open woodland including Acacia and mallee

remnants, inland riparian woodland, grassland and

shrub steppe. It is found most commonly in native

grassland, but also occurs in agricultural land,

foraging over open habitats including edges of inland

wetlands.

BAM P Low

Anthochaera phrygia

Regent Honeyeater

CE CE Dry open forest in temperate woodlands, particularly

Box-Ironbark woodland, and riparian forests of River

Sheoak. Nest in horizontal branches or forks in tall

mature eucalypts and Sheoaks.

PMST

BAM P

Low Sep-Dec

Callocephalon fimbriatum

Gang-gang Cockatoo

V - In summer, tall montane forests and woodlands,

particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet

sclerophyll forests. In winter, lower altitudes in drier,

more open eucalypt woodlands. Require tree hollows

for breeding.

BioNet Atlas 12

records

BAM P C

Low Oct-Jan

Petroica rodinogaster

Pink Robin

V - On the mainland, the species disperses north and

west and into more open habitats in winter, regularly

as far north as the ACT area, and sometimes being

found as far north as the central coast of NSW.

Inhabits rainforest and tall, open eucalypt forest,

particularly in densely vegetated gullies.


Petroica phoenicea

Flame Robin

V - The Flame Robin is endemic to south eastern

Australia, and ranges from near the Queensland

border to south east South Australia and also in

Tasmania. In NSW, it breeds in upland areas and in

BAM P Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

winter, many birds move to the inland slopes and

plains. It is likely that there are two separate

populations in NSW, one in the Northern Tablelands,

and another ranging from the Central to Southern

Tablelands. Breeds in upland tall moist eucalypt

forests and woodlands, often on ridges and slopes.

Prefers clearings or areas with open understoreys.

The groundlayer of the breeding habitat is dominated

by native grasses and the shrub layer may be either

sparse or dense. Occasionally occurs in temperate

rainforest, and also in herbfields, heathlands,

shrublands and sedgelands at high altitudes.

Petroica boodang

Scarlet Robin

V - The Scarlet Robin lives in dry eucalypt forests and

woodlands. The understorey is usually open and

grassy with few scattered shrubs. This species lives in

both mature and re-growth vegetation. It occasionally

occurs in mallee or wet forest communities, or in

wetlands and tea-tree swamps.

BioNet Atlas 4

records

BAM P

Low

Artamus cyanopterus

Dusky Woodswallow

V - Dusky woodswallows are widespread in eastern,

southern and south western Australia. The species

occurs throughout most of New South Wales, but is

sparsely scattered in, or largely absent from, much of

the upper western region. Most breeding activity

occurs on the western slopes of the Great Dividing

Range.

BioNet Atlas 4

records

Low Year round

Dasyornis brachypterus

Eastern Bristlebird

E E The distribution of the Eastern Bristlebird has

contracted to three disjunct areas of south-eastern

Australia. There are three main populations: Northern

- southern Queensland/northern NSW, Central -

Barren Ground NR, Budderoo NR, Woronora Plateau,

Jervis Bay NP, Booderee NP and Beecroft Peninsula

PMST

BioNet Atlas 2

records

Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

and Southern - Nadgee NR and Croajingalong NP in

the vicinity of the NSW/Victorian border. The

estimated population size is less than 2000

individuals occupying a total area of about 120 sq km.

There are now only four populations in the southern

Queensland/northern NSW area with a total of 35

birds, compared to 15 years ago when 14 populations

and 154 birds were recorded. This population once

extended as far south as at least Dorrigo and has

recently been identified as a separate ultrataxon

(monoides) but further research is being undertaken

to determine the validity of this. The remaining

populations are the nominate ultrataxon

(brachypterus) and once extended at least to what is

now the Sydney urban area. The central population

comprises an estimated 1600 birds, mainly from

Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, Budderoo National

Park and the Jervis Bay area. The southern

population in Nadgee Nature Reserve and Howe's

Flat is around 200 birds. Further surveys are required

in parts of Ben Boyd National Park and Sydney

Catchment Authority lands to determine whether

further populations of the Eastern Bristlebird occur in

these areas.

Daphoenositta chrysoptera

Varied Sittella

V - The Varied Sittella is sedentary and inhabits most of

mainland Australia except the treeless deserts and

open grasslands. Distribution in NSW is nearly

continuous from the coast to the far west. The Varied

Sittella's population size in NSW is uncertain but is

believed to have undergone a moderate reduction

over the past several decades. Inhabits eucalypt

forests and woodlands, especially those containing

BioNet Atlas 2

records

BAM P

Low


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Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

rough-barked species and mature smooth-barked

gums with dead branches, mallee and Acacia

woodland. Feeds on arthropods gleaned from

crevices in rough or decorticating bark, dead

branches, standing dead trees and small branches

and twigs in the tree canopy.

Stagonopleura guttata

Diamond Firetail

V - Found in grassy eucalypt woodlands, including Box-

Gum Woodlands and Snow Gum (Eucalyptus

pauciflora) Woodlands. Also occurs in open forest,

mallee, Natural Temperate Grassland, and in

secondary grassland derived from other communities.

Often found in riparian areas (rivers and creeks), and

sometimes in lightly wooded farmland.

BioNet Atlas 1 record

BAM P

Low

Pachycephala olivacea

Olive Whistler

V - The Olive Whistler inhabits the wet forests on the

ranges of the east coast. It has a disjunct distribution

in NSW chiefly occupying the beech forests around

Barrington Tops and the MacPherson Ranges in the

north and wet forests from Illawarra south to Victoria.

In the south it is found inland to the Snowy Mountains

and the Brindabella Range. Mostly inhabit wet forests

above about 500m. During the winter months they

may move to lower altitudes.


BAM P

Low

Glossopsitta pusilla

Little Lorikeet

V - Forages primarily in the canopy of open Eucalyptus

forest and woodland, yet also finds food in apples

(angophora sp.), paperbarks (melaleuca sp.) and

other tree species. Riparian habitats are particularly

used, due to higher soil fertility and hence greater

productivity. Isolated flowering trees in open country

(e.g. paddocks, roadside remnants) and urban trees

also help sustain viable populations of the species.

BAM P Low


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Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Neophema pulchella

Turquoise Parrot

V - Range extends from southern Queensland through to

northern Victoria, from the coastal plains to the

western slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Lives on

the edges of eucalypt woodland adjoining clearings,

timbered ridges and creeks in farmland.

BAM P Low

Ptilinopus regina

Rose-crowned Fruit Dove

V - Coast and ranges of eastern NSW and Queensland,

from Newcastle to Cape York. Vagrants are

occasionally found further south to Victoria. Rose-

crowned Fruit-doves occur mainly in sub-tropical and

dry rainforest and occasionally in moist eucalypt

forest and swamp forest, where fruit is plentiful.

BAM P Low

Ptilinopus superbus

Superb Fruit-Dove

V - The Superb Fruit-dove occurs principally from north-

eastern in Queensland to north-eastern NSW.

Inhabits rainforest and similar closed forests where it

forages high in the canopy, eating the fruits of many

tree species such as figs and palms. It may also

forage in eucalypt or acacia woodland where there

are fruit-bearing trees.

BAM P Low

Ixobrychus flavicollis

Black Bittern

V - Occurs from south-east Queensland to south-east

South Australia, Tasmania and the south-west of

Western Australia. Occurs in terrestrial freshwater

wetlands and, rarely, estuarine habitats.

BAM P Low

Mammals

Chalinolobus dwyeri

Large-eared Pied Bat

V V Forages over a broad range of open forest and

woodland habitats. Cave roosting bat which favours

sandstone escarpment habitats for roosting, in

shallow overhands, crevices, and caves.

PMST

BAM C

Low Sep-Mar

Cercartetus nanus V - Found in a broad range of habitats from rainforest

through to wet and dry sclerophyll forest and

BAM C Low October-March


IA193700



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Targeted

Survey Timing

Eastern Pygmy-possum woodland to heath, but in most areas woodlands and

heath appear to be preferred.

Dasyurus maculatus

Spotted-tail Quoll

V E Wet and dry sclerophyll forests and rainforests, and

adjacent open agricultural areas. Generally

associated with large expansive areas of habitat to

sustain territory size. Requires hollow-bearing trees,

fallen logs, small caves, rock crevices, boulder fields

and rocky-cliff faces as den sites.

PMST

BioNet Atlas 6

records

BAM P

Low

Miniopterus australis

Little Bentwing-bat

V - Eastern coast and ranges from Cape York to

Wollongong. Roost in caves, tunnels, tree hollows,

stormwater drains, culverts, bridges, and sometime

buildings.

BAM P C Low Dec-Feb


oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-bat

V - East and north-west coasts of Australia. Primarily

roost in caves, but also use abandoned mines,

stormwater tunnels, buildings and other man-made

structures.

BioNet Atlas 7

records

BAM P C

Low Nov-Feb

Mormopterus norfolkensis

Eastern Freetail-bat

V - Occur in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland east of

the Great Dividing Range. Roosts mainly in tree

hollows but will also roost under bark or in human-

made structures.

BioNet Atlas 6

records

BAM P

Low

Myotis macropus

Southern Myotis

V Roosts close to water in caves, mine shafts, hollow-

bearing trees, buildings, bridges, and in dense foliage.

Forages over streams and ponds.

BioNet Atlas 2

records

BAM C

Low Nov-Mar

Kerivoula papuensis

Golden-tipped Bat

V - The Golden-tipped Bat is distributed along the east

coast of Australia in scattered locations from Cape

York Peninsula in Queensland to south of Eden in

southern NSW. It also occurs in New Guinea. Found

in rainforest and adjacent wet and dry sclerophyll

forest up to 1000m. Also recorded in tall open forest,

BAM P Low


IA193700



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proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Casuarina-dominated riparian forest and coastal

Melaleuca forests. Roost mainly in rainforest gullies

on small first- and second-order streams in usually

abandoned hanging Yellow-throated Scrubwren and

Brown Gerygone nests modified with an access hole

on the underside. Bats may also roost under thick

moss on tree trunks, in tree hollows, dense foliage

and epiphytes.

Scoteanax rueppellii

Greater Broad-nosed Bat

V - Utilises a variety of habitats from woodland through to

moist and dry eucalypt forest and rainforest, though it

is most commonly found in tall wet forest. Although

this species usually roosts in tree hollows, it has also

been found in buildings.

BAM P Low

Saccolaimus flaviventris

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail

Bat

V - Wide-ranging species found across northern and

eastern Australia. Roosts singly or in groups of up to

six, in tree hollows and buildings; in treeless areas

they are known to utilise mammal burrows.

BAM P Low

Phascolarctos cinereus

Koala

V V In NSW it mainly occurs on the central and north

coasts with some populations in the west of the Great

Dividing Range. Inhabit eucalypt woodlands and

forests. Feed on the foliage of more than 70 eucalypt

species and 30 non-eucalypt species, but in any one

area will select preferred browse species.

PSMT


BAM P C

Low Year round

Pteropus poliocephalus

Grey-headed Flying-fox

V V Generally found within 200kn of the eastern coast.

Occur in subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall

sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and

swamps as well as urban gardens and cultivated fruit

crops. Roosting camps are generally located within 20

km of a regular food source and are commonly found

PMST

BioNet Atlas 4

records

BAM P C

Low October-

December


IA193700



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Targeted

Survey Timing

in gullies, close to water, in vegetation with a dense

canopy.

Potorous tridactylus

Long-nosed Potoroo

V V The long-nosed potoroo is found on the south-eastern

coast of Australia, from Queensland to eastern

Victoria and Tasmania, including some of the Bass

Strait islands. Inhabits coastal heaths and dry and wet

sclerophyll forests. Dense understorey with

occasional open areas is an essential part of habitat,

and may consist of grass-trees, sedges, ferns or

heath, or of low shrubs of tea-trees or melaleucas. A

sandy loam soil is also a common feature. The fruit-

bodies of hypogeous (underground-fruiting) fungi are

a large component of the diet of the Long-nosed

Potoroo. They also eat roots, tubers, insects and their

larvae and other soft-bodied animals in the soil.

PSMT

BioNet Atlas 8

records

BAM P

Low

Pseudomys novaehollandiae

New Holland Mouse

V Distribution is fragmented across all eastern states of

Australia, where it inhabits open heath lands, open

woodlands with heath understorey and vegetated

sand dunes.

PMST Low

Isoodon obesulus obesulus

Southern Brown Bandicoot

(eastern)

E E This species prefers sandy soils with scrubby

vegetation and/or areas with low ground cover that

are burned from time to time. A mosaic of post fire

vegetation is important for this species.

PMST Low Year round

Petaurus norfolcensis

Squirrel Glider

V - Dispersed widely but sparsely through eastern

Australia. Prefers mixed species stands with a shrub

or Acacia midstorey.


BAM C

Low Year round

Petrogale penicillata

Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby

E V Range follows roughly the line of the Great Dividing

Range. Occupies rocky escarpments, outcrops, and

cliffs with a preference for complex structures. Browse

on vegetation in and adjacent to rocky areas.

PMST

BioNet Atlas 14

records

Low Year Round


IA193700



Likelihood of

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Targeted

Survey Timing

BAM C

Sminthopsis leucopus

White-footed Dunnart

The White-footed Dunnart occurs in Tasmania and

along the Victorian and southern NSW coast. The

Shoalhaven area is the species' northern-most limit. It

has not been recorded west of the coastal

escarpment with the western-most record being from

Coolangubra State Forest, approximately 10 km

south-east of Bombala. In NSW, the species seems to

favour vegetation communities with an open

understorey structure (contrasting with populations in

Victoria which apparently prefer dense shrub and

ground layers). It is patchily distributed across these

habitats and, where present, typically occurs at low

densities. Breeding populations have been recorded

in logged forest shortly after disturbance, but these

usually do not persist as regeneration proceeds and a

dense ground cover of vegetation establishes.

BAM C Low

Petaurus australis

Yellow-bellied Glider

V - Found along the eastern coast to the western slopes

of the Great Dividing Range, from southern

Queensland to Victoria. Occur in tall mature eucalypt

forest generally in areas with high rainfall and nutrient

rich soils. Forest type preferences vary with latitude

and elevation; mixed coastal forests to dry

escarpment forests in the north; moist coastal gullies

and creek flats to tall montane forests in the south.

Feed primarily on plant and insect exudates, including

nectar, sap, honeydew and manna with pollen and

insects providing protein. Extract sap by incising (or

biting into) the trunks and branches of favoured food

trees, often leaving a distinctive ‘V’-shaped scar.

BioNet Atlas 12

records

BAM P

Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Falsistrellus tasmaniensis

Eastern False Pipistrelle

V - The Eastern False Pipistrelle is found on the south-

east coast and ranges of Australia, from southern

Queensland to Victoria and Tasmania.


BAM P

Low

Petauroides volans

Greater Glider

- V The Greater Glider occurs in eucalypt forests and

woodlands along the east coast of Australia from

north east Queensland to the Central Highlands of

Victoria. This population of Greater Gliders on the

south coast of NSW is bounded by the Moruya River

to the north, Coila Lake to the south and the Princes

Highway and cleared land exceeding 700 m in width

to the west. Feeds exclusively on eucalypt leaves,

buds, flowers and mistletoe. Shelter during the day in

tree hollows and will use up to 18 hollows in their

home range. Occupy a relatively small home range

with an average size of 1 to 3 ha.

PMST

BioNet Atlas 2

records

Low

Reptiles & Amphibians

Hoplocephalus bungaroides

Broad-headed Snake

V V Shelters in rock crevices and under flat sandstone

rocks on exposed cliff edges during autumn, winter

and spring. Shelters in hollows of large trees within

200m of escarpments in summer

BioNet Atlas 2

records

BAM P C

Low Aug-Sep

Litoria aurea

Green and Golden Bell Frog

E V 50 recorded locations in NSW, mostly coastal or near

coastal. Large populations are located around

metropolitan Sydney, Shoalhaven, and mid north

coast.

PMST

BAM C

Low November-

March

Mixophyes balbus

Stuttering Frog

V V Found in rainforest and wet, tall open forest in the

foothills and escarpment on the eastern side of the

Great Dividing Range. Outside the breeding season

adults live in deep leaf litter and thick understorey

vegetation on the forest floor.

PMST

BAM C

Low Sep-Mar


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Heleioporus australiacus

Giant Burrowing Frog

V V Northern population largely confined to the sandstone

geology of the Sydney Basin and extending as far

south as Ulladulla. Found in heath, woodland and

open dry sclerophyll forest on a variety of soil types

except those that are clay based.

PMST

BAM C

Low Sep-May

Litoria littlejohni

Littlejohn's Tree Frog

V V Distribution includes the plateaus and eastern slopes

of the Great Dividing Range. Breeds in the upper

reaches of permanent streams and in perched

swamps. Non-breeding habitat is heath based forests

and woodlands where it shelters under leaf litter and

low vegetation.

PMST

BAM C

Low July-Nov

Pseudophryne australis

Red-crowned Toadlet

V - It has restricted distribution from Pokolbin to Nowra

and west to Mt Victoria. Occurs in open forests and

wet drainage lines below sandstone ridges that often

have shale lenses or cappings in the Hawkesbury and

Narrabeen Sandstones.


Varanus rosenbergi

Rosenberg’s Goanna

V - Rosenberg's Goanna occurs on the Sydney

Sandstone in Wollemi National Park to the north-west

of Sydney, in the Goulburn and ACT regions and near

Cooma in the south. There are records from the

South West Slopes near Khancoban and Tooma

River. Also occurs in South Australia and Western

Australia. Found in heath, open forest and woodland.

Associated with termites, the mounds of which this

species nests in; termite mounds are a critical habitat

component. Shelters in hollow logs, rock crevices and

in burrows, which they may dig for themselves, or

they may use other species' burrows, such as rabbit

warrens.


BAM P

Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Plants

Haloragis exalata subsp.

exalata

Square Raspwort /

Wingless Raspwort

V V Four scattered localities in eastern NSW. Requires

protected and shaded damp situations in riparian

habitats.

PMST

BAM C

Low Year round

Cryptostylis hunteriana

Leafless Tongue Orchid

V V Larger populations typically occur in woodland

dominated by Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus sclerophylla),

Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia

gummifera) and Black Sheoak (Allocasuarina

littoralis); appears to prefer open areas in the

understorey of this community and is often found in

association with the Large Tongue Orchid (C.

subulata) and the Tartan Tongue Orchid (C. erecta).

PSMT


BAM C

Low November-

February

Cynanchum elegans

White-flowered Wax Plant

E E Occurs on the edge of dry rainforest vegetation. Other

associated vegetation types include littoral rainforest,

Coastal Tea-tree (Leptospermum laevigatum) –

Coastal Banksia (Banksia integrifolia subsp.

integrifolia) coastal scrub; Forest Red Gum

(Eucalyptus tereticornis) aligned open forest and

woodland; Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) aligned

open forest and woodland; and Bracelet Honeymyrtle

(Melaleuca armillaris) scrub to open scrub.

PMST

BAM C

Low Year round

Daphnandra johnsonii

Illawarra Socketwood

E E Restricted to the Illawarra region where it has been

recorded from the local government areas of

Shoalhaven, Kiama, Shellharbour and Wollongong.

Occupies the rocky hillsides and gullies of the

Illawarra lowlands, occasionally extending onto the

upper escarpment slopes. Associated vegetation

includes rainforest and moist eucalypt forest.



IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Irenepharsus trypherus

Illawarra Irene

E E Prefers to grow on steep rocky slopes near cliff lines

and ridge tops that extend south and east of the

Illawarra escarpment. Has also been recorded in

deep sandstone gorges along the Shoalhaven River.

PMST

BioNet Atlas 15

records

BAM C

Low

Chorizema parviflorum -

endangered population

Chorizema parviflorum

Benth. in the Wollongong

and Shellharbour Local

Government Areas

EP - Endangered population recorded between Austinmer

and Albion Park in local government areas of

Wollongong and Shellharbour. Occupy woodland

dominated by Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus

tereticornis) and/or Woollybutt (E. longifolia).

BAM C Low

Lespedeza juncea subsp.

sericea - endangered

population

Lespedeza juncea subsp.

sericea in the Wollongong

Local Government Area

EP - Just south of Dapto in the Wollongong local

government area. This population is distinct from the

other (non-endangered) populations of the species in

NSW. Known from its singular roadside population of

approximately 200 plants, located in a small strip of

open forest dominated by Eucalyptus tereticornis

(Forest Red Gum), E. longifolia (Woollybutt), and

Melaleuca decora (White Feather Honeymyrtle), on

Budgong Sandstone.

BAM C Low

Pimelea curviflora var.

curviflora

Pimelea curviflora var.

curviflora

V V Confined to the coastal area of Sydney between

northern Sydney in the south and Maroota in the

north-west. Former range extended south to the

Parramatta River and Port Jackson region including

Five Dock, Bellevue Hill and Manly. Occurs on

shaley/lateritic soils over sandstone and

shale/sandstone transition soils on ridgetops and

upper slopes amongst woodlands.


Pimelea spicata E E Broad distribution in western Sydney, occurring on the

Cumberland Plain (Narellan, Marayong, Prospect PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Spiked Rice-flower Reservoir areas). Another smaller population is

recorded in districts (Landsdowne to Shellharbour to

northern Kiama) Illawarra. It grows on well-structured

clay soils. On the inland Cumberland Plain sites it is

associated with Grey Box and Ironbark. In the coastal

Illawarra it occurs commonly in Coastal Banksia open

woodland with a more well developed shrub and

grass understorey.

BAM C

Pterostylis gibbosa

Illawarra Greenhood

E E Known from a small number of populations in the

Hunter region (Milbrodale), the Illawarra region

(Albion Park and Yallah) and the Shoalhaven region

(near Nowra). It is apparently extinct in western

Sydney which is the area where it was first collected

(1803). All known populations grow in open forest or

woodland, on flat or gently sloping land with poor

drainage. In the Hunter region, the species grows in

open woodland dominated by Narrow-leaved Ironbark

(Eucalyptus crebra), Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus

tereticornis) and Black Cypress Pine (Callitris

endlicheri).

PMST

BAM C

Low Jun-Sep

Solanum celatum

Solanum celatum

E - This shrub is restricted to an area from Wollongong to

south of Nowra and west to Bungonia. It habitat

includes rainforest clearings or wet sclerophyll forest

and is generally found in disturbed margins and

clearings.

BioNet Atlas 10

records

BAM C

Low Sep-Nov

Syzygium paniculatum

Magenta Lilly Pilly

E V The Magenta Lilly Pilly is found only in NSW, in a

narrow, linear coastal strip from Upper Lansdowne to

Conjola State Forest. On the south coast the Magenta

Lilly Pilly occurs on grey soils over sandstone,

restricted mainly to remnant stands of littoral (coastal)

PMST

BAM C

Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

rainforest. On the central coast Magenta Lilly Pilly

occurs on gravels, sands, silts and clays in riverside

gallery rainforests and remnant littoral rainforest

communities.

Zieria granulata

Illawarra Zieria

E E Illawarra Zieria is a bushy shrubs restricted to the

Illawarra region primarily in coastal lowlands. It

typically occupies dry ridges and rocky outcrops on

shallow volcanic soils and less frequently found on

moist slopes of the Illawarra escarpment. It grows in

association with vegetation comprising Melaleuca

armillaris scrub and Eucalyptus tereticornis woodland

and rainforest margins.


Hibbertia stricta subsp.

furcatula

Hibbertia stricta subsp.

furcatula

E - Known to occur in two populations, one in the

southern outskirts of Sydney, and one near Nowra on

the mid-South Coast of NSW. Habitat of the Southern

Sydney population is broadly dry eucalypt forest and

woodland. This population appears to occur mainly on

upper slopes and above the Woronora River gorge

escarpment, at or near the interface between the

Lucas Heights soil landscape and Hawkesbury

sandstone. The species usually grows in 'gravelly

loam or clay soil in heath under open woodland'.

Habitat of the South Coast population is poorly

recorded, but appears to be dry sclerophyll forest or

woodland associations in sandy soils over sandstone.

BAM C Low Oct-Mar

Acacia bynoeana

Bynoe’s Wattle

E V Found in central eastern NSW, from the Hunter

District south to the Southern Highlands and west to

the Blue Mountains. It has recently been found in the

Colymea and Parma Creek areas west of Nowra.

PSMT Low Sep-Mar


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Occurs in heath or dry sclerophyll forest on sandy

soils. Seems to prefer open, sometimes slightly

disturbed sites such as trail margins, edges of

roadside spoil mounds and in recently burnt patches.

Associated overstorey species include Red

Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), Scribbly Gum

(Eucalyptus haemastoma), Drooping Red Gum (E.

parramattensis), Old Man Banksia (Banksia serrata)

and Small-leaved Apple (Angophora bakeri).

Boronia deanei V V There are scattered populations of Deane's Boronia

between the far south-east of NSW and the Blue

Mountains (including the upper Kangaroo River near

Carrington Falls, the Endrick River near Nerriga and

Nalbaugh Plateau), mainly in conservation reserves.

Wildfires have depleted some populations.

PMST Low

Asterolasia elegans E E Occurs north of Sydney, in the Baulkham Hills,

Hawkesbury and Hornsby local government areas.

Also likely to occur in the western part of Gosford

local government area. Known from only seven

populations, only one of which is wholly within a

conservation reserve. Occurs on Hawkesbury

sandstone. Found in sheltered forests on mid- to

lower slopes and valleys, e.g. in or adjacent to gullies

which support sheltered forest. The canopy at known

sites includes Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera

subsp. glomulifera), Smooth-barked Apple

(Angophora costata), Sydney Peppermint (Eucalyptus

piperita), Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and

Christmas Bush (Ceratopetalum gummiferum).

PMST Low

Caladenia tessellate E V Known from the Sydney area (old records), Wyong,

Ulladulla and Braidwood in NSW. Populations in

PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Thick-lipped Spider-orchid Kiama and Queanbeyan are presumed extinct.

Generally found in grassy sclerophyll woodland on

clay loam or sandy soils, though the population near

Braidwood is in low woodland with stony soil.

Eucalyptus macarthurii

Camden Woollybutt

V E Has a moderately restricted distribution. It is currently

recorded from the Moss Vale District to Kanangra

Boyd National Park. In the Southern Highlands it

occurs mainly on private land, often as isolated

individuals in, or on the edges, of paddocks. Isolated

stands occur in the north west part of the range on the

Boyd Plateau. The only known record in the

conservation estate is within Kanangra Boyd National

Park

PMST Low

Genoplesium baueri

Yellow Gnat-orchid

E E Recorded from locations between Nowra and

Pittwater and may occur as far north as Port

Stephens. About half the records were made before

1960 with most of the older records being from

Sydney suburbs including Asquith, Cowan,

Gladesville, Longueville and Wahroonga. No

collections have been made from those sites in recent

years. The species has been recorded at locations

now likely to be within the several conservation

reserves including Berowra Valley Regional Park,

Royal National Park and Lane Cove National Park.

May occur in the Woronora, O’Hares, Metropolitan

and Warragamba Catchments. Found in sparse

sclerophyll forest and moss gardens over sandstone

PSMT

BAM C

Low Feb-Mar

Melaleuca biconvexa

Biconvex Paperbark

V V Found only in NSW, with scattered and dispersed

populations found in the Jervis Bay area in the south

and the Gosford-Wyong area in the north. Generally

grows in damp places, often near streams or low-lying

PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

areas on alluvial soils of low slopes or sheltered

aspects.

Melaleuca deanei

Deane’s Melaleuca

V V Deane’s Paperbark occurs in two distinct areas, in the

Ku-ring-gai, Berowra, Holsworthy and Wedderburn

areas, and there are also more isolated occurrences

at Springwood, Wollemi National Park, Yalwal and the

Central Coast areas. The species grows in heath on

sandstone

PMST Low

Pelargonium sp. Striatellum

Omeo Stork’s-bill

E E Known from only 3 locations in NSW, with two on

lake-beds on the basalt plains of the Monaro and one

at Lake Bathurst. A population at a fourth known site

on the Monaro has not been seen in recent years.

The only other known population is at Lake Omeo,

Victoria. It occurs at altitudes between 680 to 1030 m.

It is known to occur in the local government areas of

Goulburn-Mulwaree, Cooma-Monaro, and Snowy

River, but may occur in other areas with suitable

habitat; these may include Bombala, Eurobodalla,

Palerang, Tumbarumba, Tumut, Upper Lachlan, and

Yass Valley local government areas. It has a narrow

habitat that is usually just above the high-water level

of irregularly inundated or ephemeral lakes, in the

transition zone between surrounding grasslands or

pasture and the wetland or aquatic communities. It

sometimes colonises exposed lake beds during dry

periods.

PMST Low

Persoonia glaucescens

Mittagong Geebung

E V The Mittagong Geebung's historical distribution

places the northern and eastern limit at Couridjah

(Thirlmere Lakes), the southern limit at Fitzroy Falls

and the western limit at High Range. However, recent

surveys have indicated that the species no longer

PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

extends to Fitzroy Falls or Kangaloon and that the

present southern limit is near Berrima. The Mittagong

Geebung grows in woodland to dry sclerophyll forest

on clayey and gravely laterite. The preferred

topography is ridge-tops, plateaux and upper slopes.

Prasophyllum fuscum

Slaty Leek-orchid

CE V Grows in moist heath, often along seepage lines. The

known population grows in moist sandy soil over

sandstone amongst sedges and grasses in an area

that appears to be regularly slashed by the local

council.

PMST Low

Pterostylis pulchella

Waterfall greenhood

V V The Waterfall Greenhood is found only at Fitzroy

Falls, Belmore Falls, upper Bundanoon Creek

(Meryla) and Minnamurra Falls. Found on cliff faces

close to waterfalls and creek banks and mossy rocks

alongside running water.

PMST Low Feb-May

(flowering)

Thelymitra kangaloonica

Kangaloon Sun Orchid

CE CE Only known to occur on the southern tablelands of

NSW in the Moss Vale / Kangaloon / Fitzroy Falls

area at 550-700 m above sea level. It is known to

occur at three swamps that are above the Kangaloon

Aquifer. It is found in swamps in sedgelands over grey

silty grey loam soils

PMST Low

Thesium australe

Austral Toadflax

V V Found in very small populations scattered across

eastern NSW, along the coast, and from the Northern

to Southern Tablelands. It is also found in Tasmania

and Queensland and in eastern Asia. Occurs in

grassland on coastal headlands or grassland and

grassy woodland away from the coast. Often found in

association with Kangaroo Grass (Themeda

australis).

PMST Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

Triplarina nowraensis

Nowra Heath-myrtle

E E There are five known populations of Nowra Heath

Myrtle. Three of these form a cluster to the immediate

west of Nowra. A fourth, much smaller population is

found 18km south-west of Nowra in the Boolijong

Creek Valley. The fifth population is located north of

the Shoalhaven River on the plateau above

Bundanon.

PMST

BAM C

Low Year round

Xerochrysum palustre

Swamp Everlasting

V V Found in Kosciuszko National Park and the eastern

escarpment south of Badja. Also found in eastern

Victoria. Grows in swamps and bogs which are often

dominated by heaths. Also grows at the edges of bog

margins on peaty soils with a cover of shrubs or

grasses.

PMST Low

Pomaderrus cotoneaster

Cotoneaster Pomaderris

E E Cotoneaster Pomaderris has a very disjunct

distribution, being known from the Nungatta area,

northern Kosciuszko National Park (near Tumut), the

Tantawangalo area in South-East Forests National

Park and adjoining freehold land, Badgery’s Lookout

near Tallong, Bungonia State Conservation Area, the

Yerranderie area, Kanangra-Boyd National Park, the

Canyonleigh area and Ettrema Gorge in Morton

National Park. The species has also been recorded

along the Genoa River in Victoria

BioNet Atlas 2

records

Low Oct-Nov

Eucalyptus langleyi

Albatross Mallee

V - The main occurrence of the Albatross Mallee is to the

south-west of Nowra as far as Yarramunmun Creek.

A very small population is found to the north of the

Shoalhaven River in the Bomaderry Creek Regional

Park.


Callistemon linearifolius

Netted bottle brush

V - Recorded from the Georges River to Hawkesbury

River in the Sydney area, and north to the Nelson Bay

BioNet Atlas 1 record Low


IA193700



Likelihood of

Occurrence within

proposal area

Targeted

Survey Timing

area of NSW. Recorded in 2000 at Coalcliff in the

northern Illawarra. For the Sydney area, recent

records are limited to the Hornsby Plateau area near

the Hawkesbury River. The species was more

widespread in the past, and there are currently only 5-

6 populations remaining from the 22 populations

historically recorded in the Sydney area. Three of the

remaining populations are reserved in Ku-ring-gai

Chase National Park, Lion Island Nature Reserve and

Spectacle Island Nature Reserve. The species has

also been recorded from Yengo National Park.

Gossia acmenoides

Gossia acmenoides

population in the Sydney

Basin Bioregion south of

the Georges River

EP - Gossia acmenoides grows in dry rainforest, as well as

in subtropical rainforest, on the ranges and coastal

plain of eastern Australia from the Illawarra (in the

south) to Queensland. The population of Gossia

acmenoides in the Sydney Basin Bioregion south of

the Georges River is found in the local government

areas of Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. There

are currently about 30 sites where G. acmenoides is

found, often as single individual plants or as a small

group of up to four individuals. There are estimated to

be less than 100 mature G. acmenoides plants in the

population.

BAM C Low Not specified

Documents

Shoalhaven Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Expansion ... · The geotechnical investigations are limited to the drilling of up to eight boreholes ranging in depth from 25 to 650 metres