Statement of environmental objectives for geophysical operations in the Otway Basin, South

Allan T Kane Petroleum Geophysics

June 2007

Report Book 2006/18.

Statement of environmental objectives for geophysical operations in the Otway Basin,

Allan T Kane

Petroleum Geophysics

June 2007

Report Book 2006/18

Petroleum and Geothermal Group Division of Minerals and Energy Resources Primary Industries and Resources South Australia Level 6, 101 Grenfell Street GPO Box 1671 ADELAIDE SA 5001 Phone +61 8 8463 3204 Fax +61 8 8463 3229 Email [email protected] Website www.petroleum.pir.sa.gov.au/

© Government of South Australia 2007 This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cwlth), no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from Primary Industries and Resources South Australia. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Director, Petroleum and Geothermal Group, PIRSA, GPO Box 1671, Adelaide SA 5001.

Disclaimer Primary Industries and Resources South Australia has tried to make the information in this publication as accurate as possible, however, it is intended as a guide only. The agency will not accept any liability in any way arising from information or advice that is contained in this publication.

Preferred way to cite this publication Kane, A.T., 2007. Statement of environmental objectives for geophysical operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Report Book 2006/18.

ABBREVIATIONS General AARD Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division (Department of Premier and Cabinet) APPEA Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association DEH Department for Environment and Heritage (SA) EIR environmental impact report GAS goal attainment scaling GIS geographic information system PIRSA Primary Industries and Resources South Australia SEO statement of environmental objectives

Measurement Units of measurement used in this document are those of the International System of Units (SI) as well as units outside the SI that have been authorised for use within Australia’s metric system. km kilometre (length; 103 m) L litre (volume; 10-3 m3) m metre (length)

Minerals and Energy Division iii Report Book 2006/18 CONTENTS

ABBREVIATIONS...... iii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1

INTRODUCTION...... 1 Scope ...... 1 Definition...... 3

ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES ...... 3

ASSESSMENT METHODS ...... 4 Defined Conditions...... 4 Goal Attainment Scaling...... 5 Scientific Surveys-Studies ...... 5 Photomonitoring ...... 5 Other Techniques as Appropriate ...... 5

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ...... 5

AUDITING AND REPORTING...... 5 Operator Internal Reports ...... 5 PIRSA Audits ...... 5 Third Party Audits ...... 6 Incidents...... 6

DOCUMENT REVISION...... 6

APPENDIXES...... 7 1. Parks and reserves listing ...... 7 2. Relevant legislation...... 9 3. Environmental objectives and assessment criteria ...... 10 4. Goal attainment scaling (GAS) criteria for assessing seismic lines in the Otway Basin, South Australia...... 15 5. Summary of threatened plants...... 17 6. Preliminary stakeholder comments and responses ...... 18 7. Final stakeholder comments and responses...... 23

REFERENCES...... 25

FIGURES Figure 1 Proclaimed parks and reserves of the onshore South Australian sector of the Otway Basin (Created 25th October, 2006)...... 2 Figure 2 Heritage agreement areas and native forest reserves within the onshore South Australian sector of the Otway Basin (Created 26th March, 2007)...... 3

Minerals and Energy Division iv Report Book 2006/18 STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES FOR GEOPHYSICAL OPERATIONS IN THE OTWAY BASIN, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Allan T Kane

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) has been prepared in accordance with section 99 of the Petroleum Act 2000.

The objectives contained in this document are based on the information identified in the ‘Environmental impact report for seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia’ (Roberts 2001) and are also a revision of those prescribed previously in the ‘Statement of environmental objectives for seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia’ (Cockshell & Langley 2001). Typical seismic and other geophysical operations within the Otway Basin, which use current field techniques as identified in the environmental impact report (Roberts 2001), have been previously assessed to be of a low environmental significance.

This SEO has been developed in accordance with the document revision period of five (5) years as stated in the previous SEO (Cockshell & Langley 2001), and has been subject to an appropriate public consultation process. It contains a list of environmental objectives to be achieved and adhered to when undertaking geophysical operations in the Otway Basin, as well as a description of the of the methodology and assessment criteria that may be used to appraise and evaluate the level to which the prescribed objectives are achieved.

INTRODUCTION This SEO details the environmental objectives for onshore geophysical exploration operations within the South Australian sector of the Otway Basin. Its location is indicated in Figure 1. It is required that any licensee operating within the Otway Basin (South Australian sector) adheres to and achieves these objectives. The SEO states the methodologies by which the licensee and the Government may utilise in assessing the success in attaining the objectives. These objectives are derived from the environmental impact report (EIR) as prepared by Roberts (2001). This EIR is still applicable, as geophysical operation methods or associated potential impacts have not changed notably since the report was published in 2001.

SCOPE Figure 1 outlines the Otway Basin region to which this SEO applies. The region is generally considered to comprise the South Australian lands south of latitude 36°45’00”, and is commonly known as the ‘’ region. Proclaimed parks and reserves (under the National Parks & Wildlife Act 1972 and the Crown Lands Act 1929) are also included on this figure; as such areas may have restrictions or exclusions for geophysical exploration activities. There are a large number of parks and reserves that do not provide for exploration access and consequently are not covered by this SEO. Other parks and reserves do allow access for some exploration activities but specific approvals processes are required before any exploration or other regulated activity can be undertaken. Lists of each type of park and reserve are located in Appendix 1.

Prior to considering undertaking regulated activities in parks and reserves (that allow full or limited access for geophysical operations), relevant information for access, restrictions and/or specific defined conditions should be sourced from appropriate government gazettes (relating to the particular park or reserve) or from the Department for Environment and Heritage (DEH). Legislation that applies to land, land access and operational issues are included in Appendix 2.

Other areas, such as forest and native forest reserves, heritage agreement areas (see Fig. 2), registered National Estate sites (both ecological and cultural/heritage), private sanctuaries and other protected areas need to be identified and addressed independently with the relevant authority (i.e. Forestry SA, DEH, Department of the Environment and Water Resources, Australian Heritage Commission, landowner, relevant natural resource management board etc).

Provided petroleum exploration (as described below) is undertaken pursuant to this SEO, there are no requirements to provide for Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) under the Native Vegetation Act 1991. This exemption also applies to native vegetation heritage agreement areas. It is recommended that the Native Vegetation Council be consulted when activities in or near areas of biological importance are proposed. The aim of this consultation is to mitigate the impacts of exploration in high conservation value areas as well as to protect operators from unlawfully but inadvertently clearing protected species or habitats of protected species.

Minerals and Energy Division 1 Report Book 2006/18 139.75 140 140.25 140.5 140.75 .75 -36 Mount Scott ( Grass Tree KINGSTON S.E. Fairview Mullinger Swamp Butcher Gap NARACOORTE ( Bernouilli ( LUCINDALE Naracoorte Caves -37 Naracoorte Caves Big Heath Hacks Lagoon

Baudin Rocks Big Heath Bool Lagoon ROBE( Woakwine OTWAY Lake Robe Mary Seymour Glen Roy

.25 Little Dip -37 Reedy Creek

Calectasia Penola ( Furner PENOLA

Beachport .5 ( Belt Hill Penguin Island BEACHPORTBEACHPORT -37 Lake Frome BASIN ( SOUTHENDSOUTHEND

Canunda Tantanoola Caves Gower Te l fo rd Sc rub Legend .75 Legend

-37 ParkPark or or Reserve Reserve Type Type - no- no Access Access ConsConservation ervation Park Park ( ConsConservation ervation Reserv Reserve e GameGame Reserve Reserve NationalNational Park Park Bucks Lake Penambol ParkPark or or Reserve Reserve Type Type - with- with Access Access Nene Valley ConservationConservation Parks Parks with with access access Douglas Point Lower Glenelg River -38 Conservation Reserves with access Conservation Reserves with access Dingley Dell ( PORT MACDONNELL Piccaninnie Ponds 02040020401010 PORT MACDONNELL KilometresKilometres DatumDatum GDA GDA - Projection- Projection UTM UTM MGA MGA Zone Zone 54 54 ±±

Figure 1 Proclaimed parks and reserves of the onshore South Australian sector of the Otway Basin (created 26 March 2007).

On-ground activities associated with the geophysical operations covered by this SEO include: • surveying and line preparation; • recording (including preceding line surveying); • weathered layer analysis (uphole drilling and logging); • campsites; and • line checking (line restoration and ongoing monitoring).

A detailed description of each of these activities is contained in the EIR (Roberts 2001). It should be noted that only the above-mentioned activities are covered within the scope of this SEO. Drilling and other petroleum activities generally have site specific SEOs. Examples of these can be found on the PIRSA website.

Minerals and Energy Division 2 Report Book 2006/18 139.75 140 140.2 5 140.5 140.75 .7 5 -36

( KINGSTON S.E.

( ( NARACOORTE LUCINDALE -37

ROBE ( OTWAY .25 -37

( PENOLA

.5 ( BEACHPORT -37 BASIN SOUTHEND( SOUTHEND .7 5 -37

Legend ( Legend MOUNT GAMBIER ProclaimedProclaimed ParkPark or or Reserve Reserve - - no no access access ConservationConservation Parks Parks with with access access ConservationConservation Reserves Reserves with with access access NativeNative Vegetation Vegetation Heritage Heritage Agreements Agreements -38 Native Forest Reserves Native Fo rest Reserves ( 02040020401010 PORT MACDONNELL KilometresKilometres DatumDatum GDA GDA - -Projection Projection UTMUTM MGAMGA ZoneZone 5454 ±±

Figure 2 Heritage agreement areas and native forest reserves within the onshore South Australian sector of the Otway Basin (Created 26th March, 2007).

DEFINITION In the Petroleum Act 2000, environment is broadly defined to include natural, social, cultural and economic aspects. The environmental objectives outlined in this statement incorporate all these aspects.

ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES The core objectives of the Petroleum Act 2000 are to: • minimise and mitigate the environmental harm that may arise from activities associated with geophysical exploration operations; and • to protect the public from direct or indirect risks associated with activities regulated under the Act.

The philosophy that underpins the setting of environmental aims and objectives when conducting geophysical explorations is to perform such activities in an ecologically sustainable and socially acceptable manner. This conforms to the ‘National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development’ (Ecologically Sustainable Steering Committee 1992).

Minerals and Energy Division 3 Report Book 2006/18 The key to achieving ecologically sustainable development (ESD) in geophysical exploration is to adhere to the ‘National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia’s Biological Diversity’ (Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council 1996), which prescribes the goal of protecting biodiversity and maintaining ecological processes and systems. According to the five-year review of this strategy (Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council 2001), the achievement of regional planning and management of diversity was partially achieved.

Other documents that are applicable to biodiversity conservation and management within the Otway Basin include the ‘National Local Government Biodiversity Strategy’ (Australian Local Government Association 1999) and the ‘Biodiversity Plan for the South East of South Australia’ (Department for Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs 1999).

The environmental objectives to be defined below are based upon the Otway Basin environmental impact report (Roberts 2001) as well a review of those established in the previous SEO (Cockshell & Langley 2001). The highly experienced staff of PIRSA’s Petroleum and Geothermal Group and many of the operators undertaking geophysical operations in the Otway Basin are also important contributors to this SEO review.

The following environmental objectives for geophysical operations - and which are applicable in the planning stage and management of short-term and long-term impacts - are: 1. Minimise the clearing and/or other impacts on native vegetation and associated wildlife habitats. 2. Avoid long-term damage or irreparable impacts to areas of high biodiversity or conservation value, including areas with rare, endangered or vulnerable species. 3. Minimise disturbance to soil. 4. Minimise the disturbance to surface drainage patterns. 5. Avoid the contamination of surface and ground waters. 6. Avoid the breaching of and leaking from shallow aquifers. 7. Minimise the risk of introduction and/or spread of introduced species and biosecurity threats. 8. Minimise the visual impacts of geophysical operations and any third party use. 9. Avoid areas with cultural significance or heritage value. 10. Minimise the disturbance to other land users. 11. Minimise the loss of resources and optimise waste recovery (recycling and waste minimisation). 12. Minimise the risk of initiation and/or propagation of wildfire.

With the above objectives in place, geophysics operators of the Otway Basin can minimise their short-term and long-term impacts and may achieve the significant target of ESD. Adherence to these objectives should provide the means for operators to avoid significant adverse impacts in the Otway Basin, specifically those relating to groundwater resources, sites of high biological diversity, conflicting land uses and community safety and welfare (e.g. initiation of fire). Maintaining good working relationships with landholders and other community members is an integral part in achieving acceptable environmental outcomes. The PIRSA document Liaison guidelines for landholders and petroleum explorers in South Australia (PIRSA 2001) is a valuable tool for recommended communication techniques.

The aims of individual objectives may be at odds in some instances. A structured system to deal with this could not be comprehensive in a generic SEO such as this, as geographical, topological and social factors differ greatly within the Otway Basin. It is therefore recommended that professional judgement be used to differentiate between differing imperatives and their possible solutions.

This issue may not be as complex as it seems. An example of this is the possibility that in trying to minimise the visual impacts of a seismic line, the objective of minimising the impact on vegetation may be compromised. However, this vegetation can be (and often is) used as a visual screen to reduce the visibility of the seismic line.

ASSESSMENT METHODS Objective-based regulation requires a method (or methods) of identifying and assessing the attainment of environmental objectives. The following methods may be used independently or in conjunction with one another to measure the level of achievement of the environmental objectives.

DEFINED CONDITIONS In some circumstances, setting conditions that must be implemented can result in an environmental objective being met. These defined conditions may include: • prohibiting specific actions that may have short or long-term implications, such as the bulldozing of mature trees (which have unacceptable and unwarranted long term effects); and

Minerals and Energy Division 4 Report Book 2006/18 • requirements to carry out specific actions to minimise potential impacts in accordance with relevant legislation, approved procedures or industry standards (such as required procedures under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 and the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) code of practice to ensure protective measures are taken about the initiating and/or spreading of wildfires).

GOAL ATTAINMENT SCALING Some environmental objectives are likely to be subject to a certain degree of subjective judgement. To minimise the inconsistency from one observer to another in this situation, Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) is used to measure the level of which objectives are achieved. A series of criterion are used, which is described in writing and/or photographically. GAS is particularly useful in measuring achievement of objectives relating to disturbances to natural vegetation and soil. The pre- defined criterion used in this method allows a person of any skill level or previous knowledge to undertake a relevant and informative GAS analysis.

SCIENTIFIC SURVEYS-STUDIES In some cases, the assessment of the environmental objectives may not be possible in the shorter term and may require longer term monitoring and/or scientific evaluation. In such cases, the assessment criteria may be in the form of long term data, information gathering or scientific studies. Such surveys may include ecological, social or cultural studies, or other scientific investigations on specific aspects. An example of this is the use of ant communities and their distribution between on and off-line areas to determine the impacts of seismic line preparation. The results of such work could then be used to develop additional or refine existing defined conditions and GAS criteria.

PHOTOMONITORING Photographic evidence provided by an operator can provide visual documentation on the state of impact. Re-occupation of photo points over time can provide visual evidence of the level of recovery of geophysical impact.

OTHER TECHNIQUES AS APPROPRIATE Other techniques may exist, or may be developed in the future that could be beneficial for assessment of achievement of environmental objectives. Use of other techniques can be included where they are appropriate and effective.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Each objective identified above will be assessed using a selection of the assessment options identified in the preceding section. This will enable operators, regulators and other stakeholders to determine the level of achievement of the objectives. Criteria relevant to each environmental objective are presented in Appendix 3. Specific GAS criteria are presented in Appendix 4.

AUDITING AND REPORTING OPERATOR INTERNAL REPORTS Prior to commencement of, or during a geophysical survey, the operator may nominate a representative sample of lines to be audited in environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. wetlands, heritage agreement areas, parks or reserves with petroleum access etc.). Ideally, representative sample sites should be easily accessible from existing roads or tracks. Other sites may be selected away from existing tracks or in less sensitive areas on a random basis to provide a check of standards throughout the licence area, and provide representative sampling of all land units. The geophysical survey crew is to be made aware that a sample of lines will be audited but the precise lines will not be made known.

The operator should audit the nominated lines for compliance with the environmental objectives within the period of the survey and any shortfall should be made good before the survey is completed and an audit report prepared. Such an audit report needs to be referenced in the licensee’s annual report to PIRSA. This annual report requires a statement on compliance of operations with the Petroleum Act 2000, its Regulations and this SEO.

PIRSA AUDITS PIRSA may undertake random audits of geophysical surveys, both in the field and in the office, using the assessment techniques defined above. The aim of these audits is to ascertain achievement or otherwise of the environmental objectives as well as to test the veracity of the licensee’s annual report on compliance. The selection of sites to be audited will be random, to ensure vigilance on behalf of the operator and contractors. Even so, the more environmentally sensitive land units, particularly those covered by company audits, would be amongst the most likely sites for PIRSA audits. PIRSA will advise of any specific photo monitoring that is deemed to be required in addition to any which has been initiated through the operator’s environmental management system.

Minerals and Energy Division 5 Report Book 2006/18 A summary of the results of PIRSA’s audits will be included as part of PIRSA’s reporting on environmental management of petroleum operations and will be made public in PIRSA’s Annual Report.

THIRD PARTY AUDITS Third parties may also undertake audits of the field outcomes of company geophysical operations. The audits may be commissioned by PIRSA, the licensee or by an independent party. If audit findings are to be compared to those of the operator and/or PIRSA, the same assessment criteria must be used. Items of note from these reports can be included in PIRSA’s environmental management reporting.

INCIDENTS Petroleum Regulation 12(2) requires an SEO to identify events that could cause a serious incident or a reportable incident within the meaning of Section 85 of the Petroleum Act 2000.

Serious Incidents Section 85 of the Act defines a serious incident as an incident arising from activities conducted under a licence in which any of the following repercussions occur: • a person is seriously injured or killed; • an imminent risk to public health or safety arises; • serious environmental damage occurs or an imminent risk of serious environmental damage arises; • security of natural gas supply is prejudiced or an imminent risk of prejudice to security of natural gas supply arises; • the initiation of wildfire where an imminent risk to public safety arises; or • the discovery of anthropological remains.

Reportable Incidents Reportable incidents are incidents (other than a serious incident) arising from activities conducted under a license issued under the Petroleum Regulations. Pursuant to Regulation 12(2), the incidents listed below are considered to be reportable incidents that may arise from geophysical activities: • verified complaint from a landowner or land user as a result of operations; • any disturbance to sites of Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal heritage significance; • removal or destruction of known rare, vulnerable or endangered flora and fauna species without appropriate permits and approvals; • any introduction or detection of exotic species (pest weed or animal); • spill or leak outside of a containment area; • initiation of any unplanned or uncontrolled fire; and • uncontrolled flows to the surface from shallow drilling operations (upholes or shot holes).

DOCUMENT REVISION This document will be subject to a review after five years from its date of gazettal. A public consultation process will be undertaken as required in Regulation 14 under the Petroleum Act 2000. This SEO will also be constantly audited and, if necessary, revised to ensure changes in legal requirements, updated research and technologies, industry practices and stakeholder expectations are encompassed in future SEOs.

Minerals and Energy Division 6 Report Book 2006/18 APPENDIXES 1. PARKS AND RESERVES LISTING Areas with no right of access for petroleum exploration

DEH office Park/reserve name Proclamation type (for site reference)

Baudin Rocks Conservation Park Robe Beachport Conservation Park Robe Belt Hill Conservation Park Robe Big Heath* Conservation Park Naracoorte Bool Lagoon* Game Reserve Naracoorte Bucks Lake Game Reserve Mount Gambier Butcher Gap Conservation Park Robe Calectasia Conservation Park Mount Gambier Canunda* National Park South End Dingley Dell Conservation Park Mount Gambier Ewens Ponds Conservation Park Mount Gambier Fairview Conservation Park Naracoorte Furner Conservation Park Robe Glen Roy Conservation Park Naracoorte Gower Conservation Park Mount Gambier Grass Tree Conservation Park Naracoorte Guichen Bay* Conservation Park Robe Hacks Lagoon* Conservation Park Naracoorte Lake Robe* Game Reserve Robe Mary Seymour Conservation Park Naracoorte Mount Scott Conservation Park Robe Mullinger Swamp Conservation Park Naracoorte Naracoorte Caves National Park Naracoorte Nene Valley* Conservation Park Mount Gambier Penguin Island Conservation Park Robe Mount Gambier Reedy Creek Conservation Park Robe Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park Mount Gambier Telford Scrub* Conservation Park Mount Gambier

* indicates parks where right of access for pre-existing petroleum tenement holders at time of proclamation have since expired due to expiry of those tenements.

Minerals and Energy Division 7 Report Book 2006/18 Areas with right of access for petroleum exploration for existing petroleum tenement holders but not future tenements

DEH office Park/reserve name Proclamation type Pre-Existing License (for site reference)

Lower Glenelg River Conservation Park Mount Gambier PEL 57; PPL 21 Penambol Conservation Park Mount Gambier PPL 21

Areas with right of access for petroleum exploration for existing and future petroleum tenement holders

DEH office Park/reserve name Proclamation type (for site reference)

Bernouilli Conservation Reserve Robe Big Heath Conservation Reserve Naracoorte Carpenter Rocks Conservation Park Mount Gambier Douglas Point Conservation Park Mount Gambier Lake Frome Conservation Park South End Little Dip Conservation Park Robe Naracoorte Caves Conservation Reserve Naracoorte Piccaninnie Ponds (part) Conservation Park Mount Gambier Woakwine Conservation Reserve Robe Note: Fifty native forest reserves were listed at time of publication. Access to these reserves is permitted but it is advised that operators should contact the ForestrySA Mount Gambier office and consult relevant native forest reserve management plans.

Minerals and Energy Division 8 Report Book 2006/18 2. RELEVANT LEGISLATION Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (Cwlth) Animal and Plant Control (Agricultural and Other Purposes) Act 1986 Crown Lands Act 1929 Environment Protection Act 1993 Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth) Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 Forestry Act 1950 Heritage Places Act 1993 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 National Trust of South Australia Act 1955 Native Title Act 1993 (Cwlth) Native Title (South Australia) Act 1994 Native Vegetation Act 1991 Natural Resources Management Act 2004 Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Act 1986 Petroleum Act 2000

Disclaimer The Acts appearing in the above list are applicable to geophysical operations. However, the list does not include all the legislation that could be relevant to operators.

Minerals and Energy Division 9 Report Book 2006/18 3. ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES AND ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Environmental Objective Assessment Criteria Guide to how Objectives can be Achieved Comments

Objective 1 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Impact on native • Parks, reserves and heritage agreement lists are consulted for Risks to native fauna are primarily involved with contact during vegetation – communities’ and ‘Impact on native vegetation – access. ForestrySA to be consulted for operations in native the line preparation stage and in other vehicle movements. Minimise the clearing and/or species’ as listed in Appendix 4. forest reserves. Obstruction of fauna movements is also another impact; other impacts on native however, a number studies have found that line preparation, vegetation and associated Surveying, line and campsite preparation • Vegetation communities and roadside verges are considered in wildlife habitats. planning of seismic lines and access tracks. surveying and campsite preparation have minimal impact on • Proposed seismic lines, access tracks and any campsites have • Qualified and experienced personnel have scouted tracks to wildlife and their habitat due to the confined area of survey lines been planned using accurate GIS-based analysis of known provide the most environmentally sensitive routes. Factors such and facilitated recovery rates. remnant native vegetation communities. In-situ scouting as significant or isolated trees and remnant vegetation As the Otway Basin has been extensively cleared (only 13% of carried out where necessary (in or near heritage agreement communities should alter the placement of seismic lines. native vegetation remains [SENRMB 2006]), and remnant areas or significant roadside vegetation communities). Appropriate government agencies should also be consulted on vegetation is highly fragmented and subject to various ‘edge • No blading by earthmoving equipment. this process. effects’ (SENRCC 2003), it is important that any impact on • Records of clearance are kept and are available for audit upon • The route of least impact (vegetation and habitat clearance) is these communities is analysed to minimise impact levels and is request. taken and records of vegetation clearance and habitat rigorously monitored and managed to facilitate rehabilitation. Fuel and chemical use and management disturbance are kept and are available for audit upon request. Under current line preparation techniques, the potential for the Refuelling occurs only in designated areas, which are positioned • Campsites are located in cleared areas not requiring the rehabilitation of lines (vegetation regrowth) is maximised. at least 1 km from watercourses or sensitive areas. preparation of new access tracks. It is important that fuels and chemicals are not used as • Records of spills and leaks are kept and are available for • Slashing methods are used to facilitate regrowth and watercourses and many important features (such as wetlands) audit upon request. rehabilitation. exist in the Otway Basin and have fragile aquatic plant communities and habitat structures. • Spills and leaks are reported on pursuant to regulatory • Weaving was been undertaken in a manner that minimises requirements and remediation promptly initiated with vegetation removal and avoids sensitive areas and blocks of appropriate equipment and procedures. low-impacted remnant vegetation. Objective 2 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Impact on native • Lists of threatened species and communities are consulted and Due to the severity of disturbing or removing a listed species, it vegetation - communities’ and ‘Impact on native vegetation – their locations identified in relation to proposed seismic lines is recommended that this be noted in the relevant report, or Avoid long-term damage or species’ as listed in Appendix 4. and access and other tracks. It is recommended that DEH be alternatively notify PIRSA. irreparable impacts to areas contacted to ensure that operations do not impact on any of high biodiversity or Surveying, line and campsite preparation department programs, such as off-park recovery schemes. Listed species are plants or animals (and their habitats) as conservation value, prescribed under relevant state or federal legislation or • Locations of threatened species have been acknowledged including areas with rare, • Conservation needs of identified species and communities identified in regional biodiversity plans. Listed species should and, if present, lines adjusted accordingly. endangered or vulnerable considered in planning to ensure species and ecosystem stability be identified on national, state and regional levels. species. • Proposed seismic lines, access tracks and any campsites have (i.e. impacts of ‘edge effects’). Areas of high conservation value include areas of significant been planned using accurate GIS-based analysis of cultural, • Qualified and experienced personnel have scouted tracks to remnant vegetation (including those under a heritage agreement heritage and important flora and fauna sites. In situ scouting avoid locations of protected species, areas known to provide plan), significant isolated trees (including dead trees that carried out where necessary (in or near sensitive or high habitat to protected fauna or other areas of high conservation provide habitat for listed species), wetlands and important conservation value areas). value. Factors including buffer zones for individual species and roadside vegetation structures or other areas known to provide communities to provide protection from ‘edge effects’ should be • Records of scouting surveys (with results) are kept and are habitat to listed flora and fauna. available for audit upon request. included in planning and preparation. • Records of clearance are kept and are available for audit upon • When operating in native forest reserves, ForestrySA request. management plans are consulted for information regarding Fuel and chemical use and management threatened species. Operators should attempt to assist in meeting the management goals (i.e. biological surveys) of As in Objective 1. native forest reserves when working in these areas. • Any sites identified are to be flagged, reported and avoided. • Disturbance to any listed species and the extent of disturbance to be reported under regulatory requirements.

Minerals and Energy Division 10 Report Book 2006/18 Environmental Objective Assessment Criteria Guide to how Objectives can be Achieved Comments

Objective 3 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Disturbance to • Waterlogged or intermittently saturated areas should be avoided Bioremediation has previously been used successfully in the when possible. The conduciveness of areas to support survey Minimise disturbance to soil. land surface’ and ‘Uphole site restoration’ as listed in Appendix remediation of oil spills in the Cooper Basin, and should be 4. vehicles should also be considered in planning processes. considered as an option if needed. Surveying, line and campsite preparation • Areas sensitive to soil disturbance, such as wetlands or areas of steep gradients, should be avoided where possible or appropriate • Prior to any access, areas subject to inundation or steps taken to ameliorate any impacts. There should be no waterlogging must be carefully assessed for their observable difference in erosion patterns on-line compare to off- conduciveness to support vehicles. line. Fuel and chemical use and management • Campsites are placed on previously cleared areas in a region As in Objective 1. conducive to camping (i.e. away from watercourses, remnant vegetation, possibly on unused agricultural lands authorised by landowner). • Ripping of any compacted areas (campsites, Vibroseis pad marks) should be undertaken where necessary. • The route of least soil resource impact is taken and records of clearance and strategies implemented are kept and are available for audit upon request. • Any soil contamination should be reported and treated immediately with preferred (industry standard) methods. • No off-road driving or ‘bush-bashing’ should take place. • Activities should be carried out in dry weather to minimise impacts such as bogging, rutting and a loss in soil cohesiveness. Objective 4 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Disturbance to • The minimal line preparation required in the Otway Basin Possible impacts on aquatic plant communities on hydrography land surface’ as listed in Appendix 4. should ameliorate any risk of disturbance to surface drainage Minimise the disturbance to of watercourses (i.e. flow rates) may need to be considered patterns. when analysing disturbance to surface drainage patterns. surface drainage patterns. Surveying, line and campsite preparation • Any rehabilitation of features along creek banks etc should be Regional and local artificial drainage channels should also be • As no earthmoving equipment should be used in the Otway undertaken promptly. considered as a surface feature. Basin for line or campsite preparation, minimal disturbance • Slashed vegetation should not be left in a manner that would to surface drainage patterns should occur. impede the surface drainage of the area. • Any creeks encountered should have minimal vegetation clearance when undergoing line preparation to minimise potential impacts such as bed and bank erosion and silting. Objective 5 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Pollution or • Refuelling occurs only in designated areas, which are positioned Possible impacts on aquatic plant communities and habitat litter’ as listed in Appendix 4. at least 1 km from watercourses or stock watering areas. structures may need to be considered when spills or leaks occur Avoid the contamination of in surface areas. surface and ground waters. Fuel and chemical use and management • Response plans should be in place with appropriate personnel trained to respond to incidents. • Spills are reported on pursuant to regulatory requirements • Spill kits should be available immediately. and remediation promptly initiated with appropriate and readily available equipment and procedures. • All unnecessary chemical agents should be kept away from uphole drilling sites. • Records of spills and leaks are kept and are available for audit upon request. • Regional councils and government hydro-geologists (DWLBC) should be approached and informed about drilling programs. Uphole weathered layer drilling Any localised concerns for bacterial contamination or cross- • All equipment is cleaned as deemed appropriate to prevent aquifer contamination (i.e. between the unconfined aquifer and contamination of groundwater (dependent on factors such as confined Dilwyn Formation aquifer) should be sourced from the drill location susceptibility, location of previous drilling, council and/or local DWLBC officers and any processes recommendations of regional hydro-geologists) recommended by them are actioned.

Minerals and Energy Division 11 Report Book 2006/18 Environmental Objective Assessment Criteria Guide to how Objectives can be Achieved Comments

Objective 6 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Uphole site • The uphole should be tightly backfilled to support the hole and Subsidence may lead to traps being formed that may be too restoration’ as listed in Appendix 4. prevent a cave in, and also to restrict any flows between shallow large for small animals to escape. Conversely, larger animals Avoid the breaching of and saline aquifers and the underlying Dilwyn Formation aquifer to (including agricultural stock) may suffer limb injuries as a result leaking from shallow Uphole weathered layer drilling a previous (or preferably natural) level, pending advice of aquifers. of encountering such features. • Aquifers breached during uphole/shothole drilling are hydro-geologists. backfilled and/or cemented off. A cement cap is required. • Zones of cross-aquifer transfer may require a sealing cement • The hole should not leak and no subsidence should occur. plug and should be installed accordingly. • The uphole should be capped to prevent water leaking to the surface. • The incident should be reported pursuant to the appropriate regulation and any further actions taken if warranted or advised. Objective 7 Surveying, line and campsite preparation • Any vehicles upon entering the Otway basin need to be washed The most likely source of introducing a pest, weed or disease down to remove all likely infesting agents. into the Otway Basin is through unwashed vehicles and Minimise the risk of • Weeds, feral animals or plant and animal diseases are not equipment; therefore it is imperative that washing of all introduction and/or spread of introduced to, or spread within, the Otway Basin region. • Cleaning of equipment must be carried out in accordance with machinery and other equipment occurs. introduced species and pre-determined company procedures and/or industry standards • Details or logs of equipment cleaning are kept and are (i.e. accepted APPEA standards). biosecurity threats. available for audit upon request. Identifying locations of weed and pest outbreaks should be a • Liaison with the animal and plant control officer of applicable priority in planning stages. Landowners are often highly aware • Records of detection (whether introduced by a geophysical local councils and regional NRM boards or appropriate agency of locations of such outbreaks. operator or not), monitoring, eradication or control of can provide important information of local issues to factor into It is recommended that if any introduced pests or outbreaks are introduced species are kept and are available for audit upon planning. request. found during the course of geophysical operations that the • Contact with any infected plants or animals should result in information is forwarded onto relevant parties, such as the land • Areas of known disease infestation (such as phytophthora, cleaning of the relevant machinery before relocation, even owner and the regional NRM board. This will facilitate the phylloxera, Yellows) are identified with within the basin, and to best practice standards. monitoring and control of such issues and will also improve the landowners and relevant boards or control officers and be working relationships between the upstream petroleum industry avoided. and the community.

Objective 8 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Visual impact’ • The conduciveness of an area to support survey vehicles (and In areas where future third party access is a concern, the use of as listed in Appendix 4. potential impacts) should be considered to improve on-ground vegetation can provide a means of blocking access and also Minimise the visual impacts visual impacts, especially in salt lake systems. providing a pseudo-visual screen. This should only be used as of geophysical operations Surveying, line and campsite preparation final alternative after line preparation planning. and any future third party • Campsites and seismic lines should have a low visibility from • Proposed survey lines have been appropriately located to use. likely public viewpoints. minimise visual impacts. • Any public track verges need to be reinstated. • Vegetation, terrain variations or appropriate preparation • Fences or roadblocks of track and seismic line crossings can be techniques have been used to minimise line visibility. used to prevent third party access and facilitate rehabilitation. • Planning procedures to minimise visibility aspects are evident and available for audit upon request. Objective 9 Surveying, line and campsite preparation • Cultural and heritage site registers have been consulted in The aim of this objective is to ensure that any sites of relation to seismic survey placement and survey lines adjusted Aboriginal and non-indigenous heritage significance are Avoid areas with cultural • Appropriately qualified and experienced personnel have accordingly. identified and protected. significance or heritage scouted proposed survey area and access tracks. value. • A cultural heritage clearance report has been undertaken with Disturbance to these sites is considered a long-term impact and • Any aboriginal cultural locations found are identified, qualified and experienced personnel and is available for audit recorded and reported accordingly to AARD. is deemed to be unacceptable under this SEO. Disturbance to upon request. any cultural sites or removal of any artefacts is an offence under Recording • Environmental Report Forms are completed for any suspected the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1998. • These sites are flagged off and detoured around aboriginal sites or individual artefacts identified, which are • Any aboriginal cultural locations found are identified, forwarded to AARD. Copies may also be forwarded to the recorded and reported accordingly to AARD. Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement and representatives of local claimants as is appropriate and when cultural sensitivity permits Note: Where a negotiated Native Title agreement is in place,

Minerals and Energy Division 12 Report Book 2006/18 Environmental Objective Assessment Criteria Guide to how Objectives can be Achieved Comments

compliance with the agreement takes precedence over the above • Operators have a reporting system in place for cultural sites criteria; however, operators must still adhere to all requirements discovered during the survey process. under the state and federal native title and aboriginal heritage Note: Where a negotiated Native Title agreement is in place, a legislation. Work Area Clearance and subsequent report, undertaken by qualified and experienced personnel, may be required before line preparation can commence. Compliance with this agreement takes precedence over the above criteria. Objective 10 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Impact on • Notices of entry are to be distributed to all landowners and Communication and establishing working partnerships with infrastructure’ and ‘Impact on agricultural, horticultural or operators (including owners of community assets) whose land is landowners and the wider community are fundamental in Minimise the disturbance to viticultural activities’ as listed in Appendix 4. impacted by the survey, campsites or access tracks prior to other land users. minimising disturbance and decreasing issues and hold-ups with commencement (this is a requirement under Part 10 of the the survey. Consulting stakeholders on a range of issues All reasonable landowner complaints are addressed and Petroleum Act and Regulation 22). resolved. (including areas with known plant or animal disease) can assist • A system is in place for logging landowner objections and in decreasing impacts and ease community concerns. Surveying, line, campsite preparation and rehabilitation complaints. Note: The PIRSA publication Liaison guidelines for • Seismic sources are not activated within 30 m of any • An agreement to the timing and level of disturbance to pastoral, landholders and petroleum explorers in South Australia is a pipeline, utility, installation or building. horticultural, agricultural or other land user activities or valuable tool in promoting effective communication channels. • Upon completion of any seismic survey (and after any infrastructure can facilitate landholder relations. repairs, rehabilitation or reparations are administered), the • All gates are left in the position in which they were originally absence of any existing stakeholder complaints will be used found. as the indicator to the achievement of this objective. • All fences are restored to a level satisfactory to the landowner. • Inductions should be carried out for all employees and contractors, covering conservation, legislative, infrastructure and social and community issues. Objective 11 The attainment of a 0, +1 or +2 GAS score for ‘Pollution or • Resource use is minimised to reduce volumes of waste. Waste reduction is a process of continual improvements litter’ as listed in Appendix 4. Minimise the loss of • Use of recyclable materials is preferred. including purchasing, efficiency of use and reuse. Due to the relative proximately to settled areas and associated waste resources and optimise waste All regulated geophysical operations • Rubbish bins, in situ storage and removal of wastes are in recovery. appropriate containers and removed to authorised dumping and management facilities, it is more feasible to implement • Litter has been removed to authorised disposal sites within recycling centres. recycling programs in the Otway Basin than in other SA the Otway Basin. petroleum provinces. Objective 12 Fire risk minimisation and situation management • Procedures are in place to minimise risk of initiating and Processes conducted during the operation and maintenance of propagating fire during periods of high temperatures and high equipment during seismic surveys may increase the chance of Minimise the risk of • Appropriate plans in place and equipment available to winds. fire (e.g. welding, grinding, grass slashing). Lock-out initiation and/or propagation identify hazards, initiate hazard mitigation and response procedures (e.g., as part of company policy) minimise the of wildfire. training, fire-fighting equipment available and maintained • A hazard identification plan is in place for immediate chance of fire, facilitate rapid response to spills of flammable accordingly, and fire bans adhered to. implementation on days of high temperatures and winds. liquid and prevent the chance of propagation. • A response plan is in place for the safety of crew personnel should a fire approach, or be initiated by, the seismic crew. The seismic crew is vulnerable to externally generated fires and • Welding and grinding (regarded as high-risk activities) are procedures must be in place to minimise potential impact to the deferred or curtailed until weather conditions are suitable. crew and equipment. • Fuel stores are monitored and equipped with extinguishers. Fire prevention should include assistance to the Country Fire • The risks of fire to crews and transport drivers are clearly Service in the course of their duties and compliance with their defined, and a plan is in place to minimise or eliminate slasher requests. Under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005, use on defined high-risk days. section 97, an officer may ‘take, or cause to be taken, any action that appears necessary or desirable for the purpose of fire- • Contact with the local Country Fire Service is maintained in fighting’, including (f) ‘…prohibit, direct or regulate the order to keep roads clear during episodes of fire. movement of persons, vehicles or animals’.

Minerals and Energy Division 13 Report Book 2006/18 Environmental Objective Assessment Criteria Guide to how Objectives can be Achieved Comments

• Pumps are maintained and a water supply is ready during Guides, codes and standards are available to provide appropriate periods of high fire danger as required by the relevant forestry prevention and management measures, as provided by the Fire bodies and company policies. and Emergency Services Act 2005, APPEA Code of • Reporting procedures in place to CFS and PIRSA Petroleum environmental practice, local Country Fire Services and forestry and Geothermal Group. codes and rules (companies such as PIRSA Forestry, CSR and Auspine produce similar publications). • Crews are trained in use of fire fighting equipment. Wildfire has the potential to impact on most environmental, social and community values.

Minerals and Energy Division 14 Report Book 2006/18 4. GOAL ATTAINMENT SCALING (GAS) CRITERIA FOR ASSESSING SEISMIC LINES IN THE OTWAY BASIN, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Measure Score (Relevant Land System environmental +2(a & d) +1(a & d) 0(a & d) -1(b & d) -2(b, c & d) objective) Visual impact • No evidence of survey • Line of sight is • Doglegs or other visual screens • No doglegs or other visual screens • Line is clearly evident and Non land system ) operations. significantly impaired have been placed at established at established roads or tracks in dominates the landscape. specific (Obj 8 ) (except in cultivated roads and tracks in vegetated areas. vegetated areas. areas). • Line weaves through vegetated • Weaving is not appropriate to local • Wheel tracks or direction areas at least every 100 m. vegetation structures or terrain of line evident. • Line of sight is impaired (except in traversed. cultivated areas). • Line of sight is unimpaired. • Line follows route that is most • No disincentives to third party conducive to access by utilising access. naturally clear areas through • Uphole cuttings clearly visible in vegetation. landscape. • Roadblocks have been established at intersections with roads and tracks. • Third party access along seismic lines is discouraged. • Road/track verges have been reinstated where necessary. Disturbance to land • No evidence of survey • Wheel tracks or footprints • Wheel tracks and/or pad marks are • Wheel tracks and/or pad marks are • Wheel ruts or vehicle bogs are

surface operations. are evident but not <0.1 m deep. >0.1 m deep. evident and are >0.2 m deep. continuous. (Obj 3,4)) • Surface watercourse systems are • Surface watercourse systems not blocked or altered after remain blocked or altered even rehabilitation. after rehabilitation. Impact on • No impact to any rural, • No observable repair or • Any impact to infrastructure has • Damage to infrastructure has not • Damage to infrastructure has been

infrastructure urban or transportation damage to infrastructure. been reported and reinstated or been reported. left un-repaired and not reported. infrastructure. repaired. (Obj 10) • Repair to damaged infrastructure is incomplete or inappropriate. Uphole site • No evidence of upholes. • No evidence of cuttings. • Cuttings are evident but are • Cuttings form mound. • Hole is open.

restoration • Some evidence of dispersed around hole. • Minor subsidence is evident. • Major subsidence is evident. (Obj 3,6) operations. • No subsidence is evident. • Cuttings markedly dissimilar in • Uphole is leaking significant • Hole has been plugged. colour to surrounding terrain. volumes of water • Uphole is leaking water. Pollution or litter • No pollution or litter. • No evidence of pollution. • Wastewater or vehicle oil spills • Wastewater forms ponds or boggy • Extensive wastewater ponds are have been managed appropriately. ground. evident. (Obj 5,11) • Maximum of 1 pin flag/km. • Maximum of 2 pin flags/km. • Vehicle oil spills have not been • Oil spills of more than 20 L have • No other litter. • No other litter. managed appropriately. not been managed appropriately. • Maximum of 9 pin flags/km. • More than 10 pin flags/km. • Maximum of 4 items of other • More than 5 items of other litter/km. litter/km.

Minerals and Energy Division 15 Report Book 2006/18 Measure Score (Relevant Land System environmental +2(a & d) +1(a & d) 0(a & d) -1(b & d) -2(b, c & d) objective) Impact on native • No disturbance to native • Native vegetation <1m • Native vegetation >1 m has been • Appropriate weaving has not been • Trees have been removed. Native Vegetated vegetation – vegetation. has been slashed. slashed. implemented to avoid unnecessary • Rootstock has been removed. Areas slashing of native vegetation. communities • Rootstock is intact. • Native vegetation has been • Isolated communities have been (Obj 1,2) appropriately weaved around. • Seismic lines are >5 m wide. further segmented. • Roadside vegetation has been • Rootstock largely intact. • Seismic lines are >10m wide. crossed appropriately. • Seismic lines are <5 m wide. • Rootstock still intact. Impact on native • No disturbance to • Seismic line has been • Seismic line has been diverted • Significant trees have been • Listed threatened species has been (f) (e) vegetation – species sensitive vegetation . diverted around sensitive around sensitive vegetation species disturbed. disturbed or removed . vegetation species (f) with (f) but with no protective buffer (Obj 1,2) • Isolated trees have been disturbed. • Significant or isolated trees have a protective buffer area. area. been removed. Impact on • No disturbance to any • Minor disturbance to • Disturbance to activities are • Disturbance to activities are in • Disturbances are extensive, Non-Native agricultural, primary production activities but are less than acceptable to landowners as agreed excess of those agreed to in pre- unwarranted or easily avoidable. Vegetated Areas horticultural or activity. those agreed to in pre- in pre-survey consultation. survey landowner consultation. • Disturbances likely to have long- viticultural survey landowner • Repair, rehabilitation or term impacts on primary activities consultation. compensation is less than production activities. (Obj 10) reasonable/desirable. (a) For 0, +1 and +2 cells, all relevant criteria (dot point) within the cell must be satisfied to score at that level. (b) If any criterion (dot point) within a -1 or -2 cell occurs, then a score of -1 or -2 will be allocated. (c) Some criteria at -2 levels may also be subject to defined conditions, but are included in this table to ensure that they are clearly identified. (d) All vertical measurements to be measured from normal ground surface. (e) A list of species found in the South East biodiversity region is located in Appendix 5. (f) Sensitive vegetation refers to threatened species and isolated or significant trees.

Minerals and Energy Division 16 Report Book 2006/18 5. SUMMARY OF THREATENED PLANTS Threatened plant species by national, state and regional classifications

Common Name Species Name Aust. SA South East

Metallic Sun-orchid Thelymitra epipactoides Endangered Endangered Endangered Silver Daisy-bush Olearia pannosa ssp.pannosa Vulnerable Vulnerable Threatened Pomaderris Pomaderris halmaturina ssp.halmaturina Vulnerable Vulnerable Vulnerable Large-fruit Groundsel Senecio macrocarpus Vulnerable Vulnerable Vulnerable Senecio psilocarpus Vulnerable Vulnerable Vulnerable Bristle-rush Chorizandra australis Endangered Endangered Grey Parrot-pea Dillwynia cinerascens Endangered Endangered Needle Bog-rush Tricostularia pauciflora Endangered Endangered Pale Vanilla-lily Arthropodium milleflorum Vulnerable Vulnerable Eastern Blue Tinsel-lily Calectasia intermedia Vulnerable Vulnerable Spade-leaf Bitter-Cress Cardamine gunnii Vulnerable Vulnerable Mountain Clematis Clematis aristata Vulnerable Vulnerable Blue Devil Eryngium rostratum Vulnerable Threatened Carpenter Rocks Manna Gum Eucalyptus "Carpenter Rocks" Vulnerable Endangered Snow Gum Eucalyptus pauciflora ssp. pauciflora Vulnerable Vulnerable Common Hovea Hovea linearis Vulnerable Vulnerable Swamp Mazus Mazus pumilio Vulnerable Vulnerable Hairy Mitrewort Mitrasacme pilosa var. pilosa Vulnerable Vulnerable Fine-leaf Tussock-Grass Poa meionectes Vulnerable Uncertain White-flower Matted Pratia Pratia puberula Vulnerable Uncertain Shining Buttercup Ranunculus glabrifolius Vulnerable Vulnerable Large River Buttercup Ranunculus papulentus Vulnerable Uncertain Tassel Cord-rush Restio tetraphyllus Vulnerable Vulnerable Starwort Stellaria caespitosa Vulnerable Vulnerable Tufted Lily Thelionema caespitosum Vulnerable Vulnerable Slender Speedwell Veronica gracilis Vulnerable Vulnerable Source: Foulkes & Heard (2003) Note This summary of regionally threatened floral species is included to ensure that operators are aware of their obligations to protect and prevent damage or removal of all listed plant species in the Otway Basin. As species databases are constantly being updates, operators should always source up to date location-specific information for use in survey planning.

Considerations for the protection of listed fauna are also required.

Information regarding protected species under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 can be found on the Department of the Environment and Water Resources (Cwlth) website at: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/index.html

Information regarding protected species listed under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 can be found on the DEH website at: http://www.deh.sa.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened.html

Information regarding protected species on a regional scale may be sourced from the South East Natural Resources Management Board or from DEH.

Minerals and Energy Division 17 Report Book 2006/18 6. PRELIMINARY STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS AND RESPONSES

Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

DEH - Collective Introduction (1) Department for Environment and Heritage already written. SEO – Page 4 • Last para – correct DEH name. (1) (2) Corrected. • Last para – line 3 correct ‘National’ Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 and Crown Lands Act ‘1929’. (3) Words to this effect have been included. (2) • End 2nd last sentence, add ‘as park status or proclamation conditions may change at any time’. (3) SEO – Figure 1 Update and add date created Has been updated. SEO – Page 8 Reportable incidents (1) Included. Suggested changes: (2) Included. Include or upgrade the following to Serious Incidents: (3) Included. • Removal or destruction of known and flagged rare, vulnerable or endangered flora and fauna (4) Has been included partially in Serious Incidents and partially in Reportable Incidents, based on species. (1) a judgment of immediate severity. • Person seriously injured or killed. (2) (5) Included. • Wildfire as a result of seismic activities. (3) (6) Included. • Disturbance to sites of aboriginal or non-aboriginal heritage significance. (4) (7) Included. Add to reportable Incidents: • Spill or leak outside area designed to contain them. (5) • Stakeholder complaint. (6) Amendments: • Detection or introduction of weed or exotic species introduced by seismic operations. (7) SEO – Page 9 Appendices Has been updated based on updated data, taking into account future sunset clauses on tenement expiry considerations. Areas with no right of access table: • Naracoorte Caves a national park • Remove Telford Scrub CP • Add Penambol CP Areas with access • Remove Canunda CR – no longer exists • Add Big Heath CR, Carpenter Rocks CP, Lake Frome CP and Telford Scrub CP SEO – Page 11 Relevant Legislation (1) Updated. • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (currently incorrect) (1) (2) Updated. • Soil Conservation and Landcare Act 1989 and Water Resources Act 1999 now consolidated into Natural Resources Management Act 2004 (2)

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SEO – Page 12 Appendix 3 (1) Included in relevant updated objective. • Obj 1.2 — Suggested Criteria – ‘No unresolved reasonable landowner complaint. (1) (2) Included in updated relevant objective. • Obj 1.3 — Suggest criteria – ‘No evidence of 3rd party access along rehabilitated seismic lines’. (3) Erosion comment added. One vehicle track comment does not fully apply to this activity and (2) wheel base sizes vary with vehicle. Implied maximum line widths cover this and have best industry • Obj 1.4 — Suggest criteria – ‘Erosion on seismic line consistent with surrounding area’, ‘only practices governing this. one vehicle track evident’. (3) (4) A comment regarding conduciveness of surface to support survey vehicles and possible visual • Associated appendix 4 –Disturbance to land surface needs to be reviewed for salt lake activities. impacts has been made, with a specific reference to considering salt lake systems. (4) (5) Included in relevant updated objective. • Obj 1.5 — Suggest criteria – ‘No alteration to surface drainage’ (5) (6) This point will be addressed in detail in response to DWLBC comments. • Obj 1.6 — Should be reviewed in light of Cooper basin Drilling SEO, as appears unlikely that the current criteria will demonstrate compliance with the objective. They are more about how (7) Criteria as been updated to include a brief list of areas to be considered as high conservation the objective will be achieved. (6) value and a new GAS category has been created. • Obj 2.2 — Suggest Rewrite obj – ‘Avoid long-term impacts on areas of conservation (8) Has been included in other forms. significance’ – to capture all significant areas. Should note in comments what this encompasses. (9) This issue has been expanded to cover such issues. (7) (10) Wording has been changed. • Suggest criteria – add 0, +1, +2 GAS criteria achieved for visual impact and impact to native vegetation, and add ‘no reasonable complaints from land managers or others unresolved’. (8) • Obj 2.4 — Comments should include all current issues for the region eg phytophthora, phylloxera. (9) • Last criteria – Rewrite to start off with ‘No’. (10) DWLBC - Collective Objective 1.2, to minimize adverse impacts on other land users, should mention that the operations The previous objectives are not defined for specific husbandry activities; however, the measure for SEO – Page 14 also need to avoid disturbing livestock operations, and especially to be mindful of additional work attainment of this objective is based on the confirmation of satisfaction of the landowner, which particularly at lambing and calving times. although not directly, does imply a requirement for initial contact with the landowner to address his/her concerns, such as the disturbance of livestock. Despite this, such a statement as suggested has been included for operators to consider timing and scheduling of operations. SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.4, minimising the adverse impact on soil, may be expanded to include a statement on: This issue has been considered further; however, determining whether this ultimately falls within Maintaining high standard of soil hygiene by minimising the risk of bringing in soil-borne diseases the soil impacts or vegetation impacts is debatable. Ultimately, the issue is primarily a vegetation such as phytophera, an Asian plant-killing disease that may cause widespread changes in the issue but it is acknowledged that later impacts to the soil resources are a possibility. Objective 2.4 vegetation structure. does address the issue of maintaining soil hygiene through the requirement of thorough washing before entering the Otway Basin. Criteria for bio-security threats have been included. SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.6, to minimize adverse impact on underground water resources, should mention that: This is a new area of consideration for the Petroleum Group as previous SEOs have limited The operations need to minimize the risk of contaminating aquifers with iron bacteria, which is contamination of aquifers to saline cross-contamination. transmitted through drilling equipment. This bacteria produces a brown slime that builds on well It will be suggested that regional hydro-geologists be consulted more actively on drilling issues screens, pipes and plumbing fixtures causing odours, corroding plumbing equipment, and considering the significance of groundwater within the South East, with a particular reference increasing chances of sulphur bacteria infestation. included within cleaning rigs for down-hole hygiene. There is also need to make it a requirement to disinfect water wells, drilling rigs and down-hole equipment with chlorine by spraying or bathing the equipment with liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite) before any form of drilling occurs in all areas. SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.6, to minimize adverse impact on underground water resources, should mention that: The described process of uphole remediation is generally the case for the petroleum exploration (b) The PIRSA M21 Information Sheet, which is sent out with mineral exploration licenses also industry as it is presumed industry standard; however, more detail has been added to provide more mentions backfilling of multiple aquifer drill-holes when the Dilwyn Aquifer is penetrated as a guidance to operators. Again, advice has been provided to contact relevant local officers for result of drilling holes into ground. According to the information sheet, drill-holes must be grout specific details pertaining to groundwater resources and protection. backfilled from the bottom back to surface to ensure that the aquifers are properly separated and sealed.

Minerals and Energy Division 19 Report Book 2006/18 Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.6, to minimize adverse impact on underground water resources, should mention that: Appropriate measures must be implemented to stop cross flows between aquifers. It has been suggested that operators contact local councils and regional hydro-geologists to discuss likely (c) A previous survey where drillers from Queensland were hired to drill 50-meter shot holes into impacts. the confined aquifer with no rehabilitation planned left aquifers interconnected. Remedial action was required as this is an offence under the Water Resources Act. There is need to instigate a system with the petroleum branch where any Seismic drilling programs are sent to regional hydro-geologists to determine if any threats to the confined aquifer exist. If there are any concerns with the program then an on-site relationship needs to occur between the agency and either the Petroleum/ Geothermal Company or the drilling company. This may include the supervision of redrills and cementing operations. SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.6, to minimize adverse impact on underground water resources, should mention that: Once again, irrigation system impacts would be site specific and negotiated with the landowner as he/she will be the best person to advise on any issues. Any impacts on such infrastructure would (d) The Impact of seismic operations on the management of irrigation sites. The geophysical need to be reinstated. Associated regional drainage structures have been considered and it has been operations should be planned in a way that minimises the risk of disturbing the irrigation systems and drainage structures. recommended that they be treated like conventional surface watercourses in that they need to be reinstated so as not to restrict flow or have a substantial impact on bank structure (although this is not explicitly implied in the SEO, it would be a general expectation in such a circumstance). SEO – Page 15 Objective 1.8, to minimize pollution, litter or remnant equipment at survey sites, should mention Campsites are generally the main site for litter and waste generation, and are the sites that are most that additional measures that include campsite waste management should be put in place. likely to be audited for this objective. SEO – Page 16 Objective 2.4, dealing with prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic species, should This issue has the likelihood to be extremely complex given the range of apparent possibilities and mention that: has been given due consideration. Cleaning requirements and contact with regional boards and (a) Manage potential areas with phytophera, there is need to include a similar requirement (under local councils has been recommended. Notification of landowners and/or operators is a minimum period of 21 days (up to a maximum of 35 days), as is required under the Petroleum Act 2000. the native veg. Reg.2003 - e.g. 5 (I) (f) (ii) (B)) expected of other activities involving linear developments to notify the person responsible for the land prior to entry on the basis that land- owners are expected to have the most up-to-date knowledge of phytophera presence. As standard requirement, the person undertaking the clearance has to give at least 10 business days notice in writing outlining the proposed clearance to the person who has the care, control or management of the land before commencing the clearance (unless the land is under the care, control or management of the electricity entity). SEO – Page 16 Objective 2.4, dealing with prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic species, should As above. mention that: (b) To take into account the effect on the management of pest species, operators need to be aware of the risk of bringing in Grape phyloxerra, a tiny insect, which is a serious pest of commercial grapevines worldwide. DWLBC – Land Mgmt No specific comments. & Revegetation SEO EPA No specific comments. SEO Planning SA – EIA Unit I believe that the presence of any exotic species should be reportable. Not just the ones that are Agreed and included in Objective 7. SEO – Page 9 introduced by seismic operations. It may be hard to determine if the seismic operations brought the species into the area and by reporting them as they come across them shows that exotic species were likely to be present prior to seismic operations taking place.

Minerals and Energy Division 20 Report Book 2006/18 Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

SEO – Page 13 The Water Resources Act 1997 has now become the Natural Resources Management Act 2004. Changed. SEO – Page 14 Objective 1.1- I think it would be worthwhile stating that cleared vegetation should be re-spread Slashing is the preferred of line preparation in the Otway Basin. Rootstock and stubble is left in across areas to be rehabilitated. This aids in the regeneration process and prevents soil erosion. place, which facilitates the regrowth of vegetation significantly when compared to total clearance. SEO – Page 14 & 15 Compacted areas should also be ripped for rehabilitation as this also helps the regeneration process. Compacted areas are likely to be campsites or vibrator pad marks. This has been included in the relevant objective. SEO – Page 15 It would also be good if re-spreading of windrows was also included in the GAS criteria as this can No windrows are created are in line preparation as no surface cutting is involved. cause erosion issues, drainage issues and access issues. SEO – Page 16 There has also been little mentioned about the introduction of soil borne pathogens that may have This has been covered under other comments. an impact on horticultural or viticulture activities. It may be worthwhile adding this potential impact into the GAS criteria. SEO – Page 16 I’m also not sure what the issues may be for the Parks and Reserves, which have a right of access Lists have been altered to reflect future changes in access. for exploration for existing and future petroleum tenement holders. I know that existing tenements probably will have to continue but what about future tenements? Has DEH commented on this? SEO – Page 16 Any breeding sites for rare, threatened or endangered fauna should be avoided during breeding The objectives cover the need to avoid rare, threatened and endangered species. Edge effects have season and trees, which contain nests, should not be cleared. also been included to provide buffer protection zones. SEO – Page 16 The traditional owners of the area should also be consulted prior to works being undertaken. I know Agreed and is the case with Work Area Clearance; auditors usually involve local indigenous Objective 2.1 states that the proposed lines have been scouted by “appropriately trained and people. experienced personnel”. I’m just not sure if this includes the local Indigenous community. I think it is imperative that the industry establishes and maintains good relationships with the local indigenous people as well as landholders. SEO – Page 16 I think the comments for Objectives 2.1- 2.3 should include sites/species as listed in the EPBC Act The need for appropriate approvals has been mentioned and is listed as a reportable incident. GAS and, that should these exist in the area, the activity will need to be referred to the Commonwealth. scores cover this appropriately. Appropriate approvals gained from the Commonwealth, and activities completed as required, may also become a criteria for the GAS score. Forestry SA No mention of ForestrySA Native Forest Reserves in the form of maps or written information in the There are several mentions of ForestrySA NFRs in the updated version, including NFR areas in 2001 statement of environmental objectives map form. SEO – General SEO – Page 14 Fantastic guidelines in the table in terms of mineral company requirements prior to entering areas The SEO provides the guidelines for operators to abide by; however, a greater control measure of of significance, however, I am yet to see an operator: this can be created by a stronger working partnership between PIRSA Petroleum Geophysics and ForestrySA (Mt Gambier). When NFRs are included in survey plans, the operator and PIRSA can • Scout for native vegetation and wildlife habitats, without being asked. liaise with ForestrySA to aim for a better environmental outcome. • Minimising NV clearance without being asked. • Provide maps etc. of NV clearance. • Avoid mature trees (until scope energy). SEO – General [In response to Section 14(2) of the Petroleum Regulations 2000] Unfortunately, such a recommendation is outside the scope of this SEO, and is a matter that may be raised when the Act is next reviewed. (a) changes in information and knowledge: Section 14(2) should address the more significant Native Forest Reserves including Honan NFR, The Marshes NFR, and others of high biodiversity, and add a clause to the act to prevent Mineral exploration in these reserves on par with DEH managed reserves (National Parks and Conservation Parks).

Minerals and Energy Division 21 Report Book 2006/18 Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

SEO – General (b) community expectations in relation to relevant environmental issues: The review of the 2001 SEO incorporates a new individual environmental objective ‘to avoid areas of high biodiversity or conservation value, including areas with rare, endangered or vulnerable There is an increasing community expectation that FSA Native Forest Reserves will be managed with greater integrity. This means taking into account mineral exploration, threatened species’ and GAS scores have been altered to reflect this. Although NFRs are open to petroleum exploration, it is foreseen that issues arising from regulated exploration activities can be dealt with species, and other community values. Banning Mineral exploration in several reserves is also an option. (as a result of the SEO controls) in a manner that will provide minimal disturbance to NFRs and will facilitate line and site recovery. SEO – General (c ) changes in the use of land: No comment applicable. As of 2000 there are now around 48 gazetted Native Forest Reserves in SE SA. SEO – General (d) changes in operational practices: 2D seismic operations are likely to utilise existing tracks to facilitate both environmental and economic benefits. 3D surveys are more likely to lead to some vegetation slashing. As the Because of the changes in community expectation, and FSA/other groups, it is no longer considered acceptable to add tracks to the native forest reserve network. ‘landowner’ in NFRs, ForestrySA has the right to object or suggest alternatives when surveys are proposed in such areas. SEO – General (e) other matters determined to be relevant by the minister: Again, such a recommendation is suited to a review of the Act, and not this SEO. There is a case for listing Native Forest Reserves on the exemption list along side Conservation Parks and National Parks. This would prevent further damage to Native Forest Reserves.

Minerals and Energy Division 22 Report Book 2006/18 7. FINAL STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS AND RESPONSES

Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

DEH - Collective [Scope, paragraph 3] Commonwealth Dept of the Environment and Heritage is now Department of Changed. SEO – Page 1 the Environment and Water Resources. SEO – Page 1 [Scope, paragraph 4] This paragraph should be reviewed due to inaccuracies in the information After further discussion with experienced personnel, it has been confirmed that operations in provided. Under the Native Vegetation Act 1991, all exploration activities are exempt from an heritage agreement areas are exempt from SEB requirements given certain requirements are met. SEB; this includes heritage agreement areas. Where available, DEH manages environmental Ambiguity in the relevant regulations was a cause of this. The document has been changed to information relating to specific heritage agreements. reflect this. SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3, objective 1] Minor variation between wording of objective here and under earlier Altered to be analogous. ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES section SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3, objective 2] The objective for avoiding areas of high biodiversity and conservation Objective title altered. value is not compatible with the criteria provided. The objective is written in terms of avoidance meaning these activities directly or indirectly should not go near these areas; as such a suitable measure would be something like Zero impacts on areas of high biodiversity and conservation value... . As there is likely to be some activities within areas of high conservation significance, a rewording of this objective is recommended, such as Avoid long term and irreparable impacts to ... for an achievable objective. SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3, objective 2] Include an assessment criteria such as Evidence gathered to support PIRSA management systems that are currently in place account for this issue. Examples include ability to undertake activities at activity location without leading to long-term or irreparable the requirement for operators to lodge security bonds, the use of an approved SEO, operator impacts to demonstrate that entry into these locations was unavoidable and manageable. A capability requirements assessed under the Act, low and high supervision categories of clarification of the need for such an assessment should be included in the comments field. operatorship and many other requirements under the Petroleum Act 2000. SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3, objective 2] Correct criteria for fuel spill to say Objective 1, not 1.1 (correction also Changed. in obj 3) SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3, objective 2] Under Guide to... threatened species issues should be discussed with Comment added. DEH, on and off park, to ensure that petroleum activities are not impacting on DEH activities such as species recovery programs, and where available, consideration has to be given to the provisions of a park management plan. SEO – Page 11 [Appendix 3, objective 4] The assessment criteria under Surveying, Line and Campsite This assessment criteria applies to both ‘Assessment Criteria’ and ‘Guide to how Objectives can Preparation appear to be how the objective should be achieved rather than assessment criteria. be Achieved’. As disturbance to soil may present itself in the long-term, a key indicator and assessment tool for PIRSA to evaluate the potential for disturbance to soil is the planning that has been utilised in both office and in situ preparations. SEO – Page 12 [Appendix 3, objective 7, Assessment Criteria dot point 4] add ‘or relevant authority’, as some Changed. information may be available through other government agencies such as Transport SA or DEH, and end with are avoided rather than be avoided. SEO – Page 12 [Appendix 3, objective 7] Guide to... In relation to cleaning of equipment, this should be carried Changed. out in relation to current best practice. This needs to be consistent with current regulatory approaches eg guidelines for the management of phytophthora have been produced by an intergovernmental steering group; providing the basis for management of this issue in SA. SEO – Page 13 [Appendix 3, objective 9] DAARE is now the Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division All occurrences of DAARE have been changed to AARD. within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. SEO – Page 13 [Appendix 3, objective 9] Re. Note under assessment criteria - a negotiated native title agreement The statement has been reworded. does not override legislative requirements under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1998. This statement could be read to indicate that an agreement does.

Minerals and Energy Division 23 Report Book 2006/18 Stakeholder Stakeholder Comment Response / Editor’s Comment Document section and page

SEO – Page 13 [Appendix 3, objective 10] Assessment Criteria dot point 2 - Is this assessment criterion the same Wording changed. as all reasonable landowner complaints are addressed and resolved. The criteria does not make sense as it is written. SEO – Page 17 [Appendix 5, paragraph 1] Suggest second sentence should be updated to ensure operators don’t Changed. rely on the information in the list you have provided, as it is out of date. Example amendment As species databases are constantly being updated, operators should always source up to date location-specific information for use in survey planning. SEO – Page 17 [Appendix 5, paragraph 5] Threatened species information at a regional level is also available Changed. from the Department for Environment and Heritage. EPA No specific comments Transport SA – EIA Unit It is recommended that in the circumstances that windrows or vegetation piles are formed that Altered to suit Otway Basin operation conditions. SEO – Page 11 these are placed in a way that does not impact on the drainage of the area. SEO – Page 12 A guide on how the objective can be achieved for Objective 8 - visual impact would be to dogleg Comment added. seismic lines at all track intersections. This prevents other users of the tracks to see the whole line. SEO – Page 13 The document also refers to DAARE, this is now AARD (Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation All occurrences of DAARE have been changed to AARD. Division) which is part of the Department of Premier and Cabinet. ForestrySA Satisfactory objectives that mention avoiding areas of high biodiversity and conservation value etc, SEO – Pages 4-5 and minimising other effects. SEO – Page 5 Satisfactory mention of scientific surveys prior to exploration works. SEO – Page 6 Reportable incidents well covered SEO – Page 8 Could FSA provide a list of Native Forest Reserves to add to this appendix with Reserve name, A note has been added to this section to increase awareness of NF reserves. A full list has not Reserve Type (Native Forest Reserve), and FSA Office (Mount Gambier)? been included as it is deemed that the note is more detailed then a list of all reserves. A complete list of reserves is found in Figure 1 (p6) of Honan NFR Management Plan http://www.forestrysa.sa.gov.au/pdf/Honan_NFR_Draft_Revision_Nov_2005.pdf SEO – Page 9 Relevant Legislation - Could we add the Forestry Act 1950, and Forestry Regulations? Act added. SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3] Could you add Parks, Reserves, Native Forest Reserves, and Heritage agreements in The comment “ForestrySA to be consulted for operations in native forest reserves” has been dot point 1 centre paragraph. added. SEO – Page 10 [Appendix 3] Could you add Qualified and experienced personnel from the appropriate The comment “Appropriate government agencies should also be consulted on this process” has agency have scouted tracks... been added. SEO – Page 5 [Appendix 4] Looks appropriate. SEO – Page 5 [Appendix 5] This isn't a complete list (the complete list is quite long). Include a reference to a References to contacting appropriate agencies have been included to account for the changing document such as 'Lang, P. and Kraehenbuhl, D' on threatened plants of the 'South East' to avoid status of listed species. having to put a complete list in. Or a reference to the NPWS Act Schedule of threatened plants (this also includes Rare rated plants) SEO – Page 5 Stakeholder comments - Thanks for attending to comments, it has meant a good document has been produced

Minerals and Energy Division 24 Report Book 2006/18 REFERENCES APPEA, 1996. Code of environmental practice. Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Ltd, Sydney. Australia and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, 1996. National strategy for the conservation of Australia’s biodiversity. Department of the Environment, Sport and Territories, Canberra. Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, 2001. Review of the National strategy for the conservation of Australia’s biodiversity. Environment Australia, Canberra. Cockshell, C.D. and Langley, K.R., 2001. Statement of environmental objectives for seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Report Book, 2000/020. Carthew, S.M., 1999. The impact of seismic lines on native fauna in Nangwarry Native Forest Reserve. Consultant’s report the Office of Minerals and Energy Resources. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Docket number, 96/00029 (unpublished). South Australian Department for Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs, 1999. Biodiversity Plan for the South-east of South Australia. Government of South Australia, Adelaide. Ecologically Sustainable Development Steering Committee, 1992. National strategy for ecologically sustainable development. Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra. Fatchen, T.J. and Woodburn, J.A., 2000. Criteria for the abandonment of seismic lines and wellsites in the Cooper Basin. Stage 4 — Derivation of criteria. Fatchen Environmental Pty Ltd for the Office of Minerals and Energy Resources. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Open file envelope, DME-97-02. Foulkes, J.N. and Heard, L.M.B. (Eds.), 2003. A Biological Survey of the South East, South Australia: 1991 and 1997. Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia, Adelaide. Garnett, S. (Ed.), 1992. Threatened and extinct birds of Australia. Royal Australian Ornithologists Union. Melbourne. Report, 82. Langley, K.R., 1996. Environmental management of seismic operations in the South East of South Australia. 4th edn. South Australia. Department of Mines and Energy Resources, report. Open file envelope, 94/00478 (unpublished). Laut, P., Heyligers, P.C., Krieg, G., Loffler, E., Margules, C., Scott, R.M. and Sullivan, M.E. (Compilers), 1977. Environments of South Australia. Province 1, South East. CSIRO Division of Land Use Research, Canberra. Leigh, J.H. and Briggs, J.D. (Eds), 1994. Threatened Australian plants: overview and case studies. Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service, Canberra. Malavazos, M., 1996. Goal attainment scaling: a tool for assessing environmental performance. Paper presented at a workshop on goal attainment scaling, MESA and the Chamber of Mines and Energy, August 1996, Adelaide. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Open File, DME 1996/310 (unpublished). PIRSA, 2001. Liaison guidelines for landholders and petroleum explorers in South Australia. South Australia. Department for Primary Industries and Resources. Earth Resources Information Sheet, P9. Roberts, D., 2001. Environmental impact report for seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia. 2nd edn; DCR Geoconsulting report for the Office of Minerals and Energy Resources. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources South Australia. Report Book 2001/010, 2nd edn. South Australian Cooper Basin Operators, 2006. Statement of environmental objectives: geophysical operations. PIRSA, Adelaide. South Australian Cooper Basin Operators, 2006. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. PIRSA, Adelaide. South East Natural Resources Management Board, 2006. South East Natural Resources Management Board Initial Plan 2006-07, SENRMB, Mt. Gambier. South East Natural Resource Consultative Committee, 2003. South East Natural Resource Management Plan. SENRCC, Mt. Gambier. Thorman, R. (Ed.), 1999. National Local Government Biodiversity Strategy. Australian Local Government Association, Canberra. Tyler, M.J., Twidale, C.R., Ling, J.K. and Holmes, J.W. (Eds) 1983. Natural history of the South East. Royal Society of South Australia Inc., Adelaide. Williams, M.L., Boulton, A.J., Hyde, M., and Kinnear, A.J., 1993. An environmental audit of seismic exploration in the South East of South Australia. Michael Williams and Associates Pty Ltd report for Office of Mineral and Energy Resources. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Open file Envelope, 8521. Williams, M.L., Boulton, A.J., Hyde, M., Kinnear, A.J. and Cockshell, C.D. 1994. Environmental impact of seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia. APEA Journal. Vol 34, part 1: 741-749. Williams, R.G., 1997. Floristic recovery of native vegetation after petroleum exploration in the Otway Basin, South East South Australia. Adelaide University. MSc thesis (unpublished). Wiltshire, D. 1996. Environmental handbook for South Australia onshore petroleum exploration and production. Boral Energy Resources Ltd, Adelaide.

Minerals and Energy Division 25 Report Book 2006/18