SEA Gas Project

Environment Effects Report / Environmental Impact Report

October 2001 SEA GAS PROJECT

ENVIRONMENT EFFECTS REPORT (VICTORIA) and ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (SOUTH AUSTRALIA)

South East Australia Gas Pty Ltd (A.C.N. 096 437 900)

Level 13, 1 King William Street Adelaide, South Australia 5000

Telephone: 08 8217 5859 Facsimile: 08 8217 5858

Email: [email protected] © South East Australia Gas Pty Limited (SEA Gas) October 2001

Published by SEA Gas

This publication is copyright.Apart from any fair dealing for private study research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission of the copyright owner.

ISBN 0 9579854 0 1 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Preface

Preface

The proposed SEA Gas Project requires a variety of regu- Southern Grampians Shire Council latory approvals under Victorian and South Australian leg- 111 Brown Street islation.This document is a joint Environment Effects Report HAMILTON / Environmental Impact Report (EER/EIR) prepared in support of applications for a South Australian Pipeline Glenelg Shire Council Licence and Victorian Pipeline Permit under the South Cliff Street Australian Petroleum Act 2000 and the Victorian Pipelines PORTLAND Act 1967. West Wimmera Shire Council Public Exhibition 49 Elizabeth Street The EER/EIR will be available for public comment until EDENHOPE Friday 7th December, 2001. South Australia In South Australia, a Statement of Environmental Primary Industries and Resources SA Objectives (SEO) will also be exhibited concurrently with 101 Grenfell Street the EER/EIR. The intent of the SEO is to outline the ADELAIDE environmental objectives to which construction and operating activities must conform and the criteria upon which Naracoorte Lucindale Council achievement of these objectives will be assessed. De Garis Place NARACOORTE Copies of these documents can be obtained from SEA Gas, by telephoning Ms Louise Munro on 08 8217 5859. Tatiara District Council The documents can also be viewed on the Project Web c/- 34 Hender Street Page (www.seagas.com.au).The documents will be avail- KEITH able for viewing at the following locations: Coorong District Council Victoria c/- 95 Railway Terrace Dept of Natural Resources and Environment TAILEM BEND Library 8th Floor, 240 Victoria Parade Rural City of Murray Bridge EAST MELBOURNE 2 Seventh Street MURRAY BRIDGE Dept of Infrastructure Nauru House, Upper Plaza Mid-Murray District Council 80 Collins Street 49 Adelaide Road MELBOURNE MANNUM

Corangamite Shire Council The Barossa Council 181 Manifold Street 1 Washington Street CAMPERDOWN ANGASTON

Moyne Shire Council Gawler Council Princes Street Murray Street PORT FAIRY GAWLER

i Preface SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

City of Playford • Indicate whether the Project’s environmental objectives, Warook Drive goals and assessment criteria are appropriate. SMITHFIELD • Provide any additional information you believe is Salisbury City Council required before an adequate assessment of the environ- 12 James Street mental impacts of the Project may be made. SALISBURY Further Information Port Adelaide Enfield Council Further information regarding the SEA Gas Project can 161 St Vincent Street be obtained from the Project Web Page – PORT ADELAIDE www.seagas.com.au, or by contacting:

Comments Mr Jim Kouts Comments regarding the proposed project should be pro- Corporate Affairs Manager vided by Friday 7th December 2001, to either of the fol- Australian National Power lowing: for the SEA Gas Project

The Manager Level 13 Minerals and Petroleum Tenements 1 King William Street DNRE ADELAIDE PO Box 500 South Australia 5000 EAST MELBOURNE Telephone:08 8217 5859 Victoria 3002

Chief Petroleum Engineer Petroleum Division PIRSA GPO Box 1671 ADELAIDE South Australia 5001

Comments should be in writing and should:

• Identify the Project.

• Provide your name and address.

• Identify any special interest you may have in the Project (where relevant).

• Suggest changes that you consider may improve the Project.

• Identify any issues that you consider may have been omitted in the proposal.

• Indicate whether the views expressed in the document correspond with your knowledge of the local situation.

• Indicate whether you believe any additional safeguards should be adopted.

ii SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary

Summary

Introduction Completion of the Adelaide – Melbourne – Sydney high The SEA Gas Project is an important new strategic energy pressure gas transmission links will stimulate competition supply development for southeastern Australia,which aims between gas producers and between gas transporters, to protect future gas supplies for both South Australia and resulting in commercial benefits for industrial and Victoria. Central to the SEA Gas Project is a 670km trans- domestic gas consumers. In particular, the Project will mission pipeline that will complete the Adelaide- provide opportunity for long term competitive gas supplies Melbourne-Sydney high pressure gas transmission links. as new gas fields are developed and compete to meet growing market demands. Australian National Power and Origin Energy have formed the joint venture company South East Australia The SEA Gas Project will provide a range of further Gas Pty Ltd (SEA Gas),to develop the Project. substantial benefits to both South Australia and Victoria, as it will: The proposed Port Campbell to Adelaide pipeline will • stimulate the development of the Minerva and Yolla gas commence at the Iona Gas Plant, northeast of Port fields Campbell,connect to the Minerva Gas Plant and terminate • create a new market for recent substantial offshore at the Pelican Point Offtake Station on Torrens Island Otway Basin gas discoveries northeast of Adelaide (refer to Map 1). Construction is • provide considerable economic benefits at the regional, scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2002, with State and National levels the first delivery of commissioning gas in October 2003 • provide substantive new sources of LPG and refinery and commencement of commercial operation by January feedstock for Victorian industry and commerce,and 2004. • contribute to Australia’s ability to meet its Greenhouse gas commitments, by providing natural gas as an alterna- The pipeline will transport at least 70 petajoules (PJ) of tive to more Greenhouse gas intensive fuels such as coal. natural gas per year for the foundation shippers, which include Australian National Power, Origin Energy and Background SAMAG. It is planned to increase the pipeline capacity In June 2000, the South Australian Government called for beyond 70PJ per annum to cater for third party access and expressions of interest for the provision of a new gas supply additional customers. Furthermore, SEA Gas is pursuing into the State. The development concept preferred by the regional markets and expects to develop lateral pipelines to Government was construction of a transmission pipeline to centres such as Portland, Casterton and Naracoorte and to access gas from the Victorian Otway Basin. An intensive tie into the existing local transmission and distribution screening process followed and in March 2001 the State network at Katnook in the southeast of South Australia. Government selected the Australian National Power / Origin Energy / SAMAG alliance as the preferred pipeline Gas will initially be sourced from the Minerva and Yolla development proponent. fields and the Gippsland Basin, with long term supplies expected to be drawn from fields such as Geographe and On the 1st March 2001 the South Australian Government Thylacine. As such, it is predicted that the $250 million and the development alliance signed a key Facilitation SEA Gas Project will underpin regional petroleum devel- Agreement for the Project. As part of this agreement the opments in Victoria estimated to be valued at more than $1 Proponents are required to build a pipeline with an initial billion. capacity of at least 45 PJ/annum with the potential for the capacity to be increased to 60 PJ/annum, and to complete The Need for the SEA Gas Project the project by January 2004. The SEA Gas Project will increase the security of future gas supply for both South Australia and Victoria and will create a Project Proponent truly competitive gas market for southeastern Australia. The SEA Gas is a joint venture company established specifically Governments of both States have identified a new, inde- to develop the SEA Gas Project. The company is owned pendent source of energy as a strategic priority. equally by Australian National Power and Origin Energy.

iii Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Australian National Power is a part of International Power, permit must be granted prior to a licence being issued to one of the largest independent power companies in the construct and operate the pipeline. The pipeline permit world with assets in thirteen countries, primarily the and licence are obtained from the Minister for Resources United States, Europe and Australia. The company and Energy,via Minerals and Petroleum Victoria (MPV). currently owns and operates power stations in both South Australia and Victoria. Before the issuing of a permit, the development of a gas pipeline may require an environmental assessment under Origin Energy is a major Australian company whose the Environment Effects Act 1978. The Minister for diverse interests include exploration and production of Planning has determined that an Environment Effects natural gas, energy retailing and trading, power generation Statement under the Environment Effects Act will not be and investment in energy infrastructure and management. required for the SEA Gas Project, but that an Environment The company supplies energy to over 1.8 million Effects Report (EER) be prepared to support the pipeline customers throughout Australia and manages 18,000km of licence application. The Pipeline Permit application and natural gas pipelines. supporting EER are to be publicly displayed for a period of no less than 30 days. Any public submission received will Environmental Commitment be considered by the Minister when deciding on a permit. SEA Gas is committed to responsible environmental management through all phases of the Project and believes South Australian Approvals that any potential adverse environmental effects can be In South Australia construction and operation of a natural effectively managed in a manner that complies with the gas transmission pipeline can only be conducted if a requirements of this document,as well as: pipeline licence has been granted and an approved • all relevant State and Commonwealth laws and regulations Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) is in place. • SEA Gas Environmental Policy (Appendix 1) An SEO details the environmental objectives with which • relevant industry standards (such as AS 2885),and construction, operation and decommissioning activities • the Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA) Code must conform and the criteria upon which achievement of of Environmental Practice 1998. these objectives will be assessed. The objectives are developed from an environmental impact assessment and stake- SEA Gas also recognises its community obligation to take holder consultation program, the results of which are all practicable steps to ensure its operations and activities documented in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). are conducted in an efficient and environmentally sustainable manner. The pipeline licence application, EIR and draft SEO must be advertised for a period of at least 30 business days before Legislative Framework the application is determined. The SEA Gas Project will be subject to a range of planning and environmental approvals under Victorian, South Approval for the Yallamurray Compressor Station will be Australian and Commonwealth legislation. The major managed under the South Australian pipeline licence approvals required are: application process and an additional approval is not • Pipeline Permit and Pipeline Licence in Victoria required. However, the Minister for Minerals and Energy • Pipeline Licence in South Australia,and needs to be certain that the compressor station design • (possibly) approval under the Environment Protection and meets with the requirements of the South Australian Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act). Environment Protection Act 1993.

As part of the decision to grant these approvals,the govern- SEA Gas has decided to prepare a single assessment documents of both states must consider the potential environment (EER/EIR) to include the entire Project and to be mental effects of the Project. exhibited concurrently in both Victoria and South Australia for a period of 30 business days. Victorian Approvals The Victorian Pipelines Act 1967 provides for a two-stage Commonwealth Approvals approval process, with the first stage authorising the route The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act and the second stage the pipeline construction. Under the 1999 (EPBC Act) has been developed to provide for the Act, a permit is required to own and use a pipeline. The protection of environmental matters that are recognised as

iv SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary being of ‘national environmental significance’. Project Description Consequently, proponents must identify aspects of a The proposed SEA Gas pipeline will be approximately development that may trigger a Commonwealth 670km long and 350mm (14 inches) in diameter. It will environmental assessment under the EPBC Act. commence at the Iona Gas Plant, north east of Port Campbell,connect to the Minerva Gas Plant and terminate SEA Gas is confident that impacts to matters of national at the Pelican Point Offtake Station on Torrens Island north significance can be avoided and SEA Gas will determine of Adelaide (see Maps 2 and 3). The pipeline will be the appropriate strategy for Commonwealth environ- designed in accordance with the Australian Standard mental assessment, after the alignment of the pipeline has AS 2885.1: Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum and will be been finalised and site specific mitigation strategies have buried to a minimum depth of 750mm. been developed. Both these actions will follow Government and community input to the Project in Project approval is anticipated in early 2002. Construction response to this EER/EIR as part of the detailed design will occur over a 12-month period, commencing in the phase. As such,Commonwealth environmental approval,if third quarter 2002, and will involve a workforce of up to required,will be undertaken as a separate process. 300. The delivery of first commissioning gas is planned to occur in October 2003 and commencement of commer- Under the Commonwealth Native Title Act 1993, indige- cial operation by January 2004. nous land rights apply to registered Crown Land titles intersected by the pipeline. The SEA Gas Project is likely One compressor station will be located northeast of to intersect a small number of such locations. The native Padthaway in South Australia. The nine mainline valves title process will be undertaken in accordance with all and five scraper stations will be the other main above legislative requirements under the Act, in full consultation ground features. with relevant claimants, heritage groups and regulatory agencies. The pipeline will have a design life of 80 years, and during operation will be controlled from the SEA Gas Control Subsequent Approvals Centre in suburban Adelaide. It is proposed that approxi- Once major approvals are granted, subsequent legislative mately seven field personnel will be required during opera- approvals or requirements may apply as part of the further tions. development of the project. Subsequent approvals generally relate to specific construction and operation activities Construction and provide a further forum and regulatory setting for the The SEA Gas Project will be constructed in accordance protection of environmental values. As such SEA Gas may with the requirements of AS 2885 and the APIA Code of require additional approvals for a range of possible activities Environmental Practice (1998) (the APIA Code). including to: Construction activities will be typical of modern pipeline • remove native vegetation projects and will involve the following key steps: • disturb Victorian Rare or Threatened Species • Clearing of vegetation and grading of the right-of-way • disturb an archaeological relic or Aboriginal cultural place to prepare a safe construction area and to protect and • construct works in a watercourse preserve topsoil. • source water from natural waterbodies • Creation of a trench in which to lay the pipeline. This will • dispose of hydrotest water,and be undertaken by a trenching machine or excavator, but • construct during Total Fire Ban. may involve rock hammers or blasting in isolated areas. • Crossing watercourses by open cut, boring or horizontal Easement Acquisition directional drilling methods. SEA Gas intends to acquire a 25m wide easement over the • Stringing of the pipe sections along the right-of-way. land traversed by the pipeline. Under the arrangement the • Welding together of the pipe sections. property owner retains title to the land and SEA Gas • Placing sand or screened soil (padding and shading) into the obtains rights of access for monitoring and maintenance. trench to protect the pipe coating from external damage. SEA Gas recognises the rights of individual property • Lowering the pipeline into the trench and returning the owners/occupiers and aims to establish a partnership for trench spoil material. the future, recognising the long term nature of gas • Testing the integrity of the pipeline by filling it with pipelines. pressurised water.

v Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• Cleaning up and restoring the construction right-of-way and all disturbed work areas.

The figure below illustrates the layout of a typical construction right-of-way.

Local contractors and service companies will be involved • developing the Project or not developing the Project with the construction phase of the pipeline and associated • gas as the energy source and other sources of energy facilities, where possible. The construction workforce will • the basin from which the gas will be sourced be accommodated in a variety of forms and preference will • pipeline corridors from the preferred gas basin to the be given to using local commercial accommodation rather market,and than establishing construction camps. • project design, construction techniques and environmental impact mitigation measures. Operation Gas flow and pressure will be monitored from the SEA Gas “No Project”Alternative Control Centre in suburban Adelaide. Inspection of the The SEA Gas Project has been proposed in direct response pipeline easement for issues such as erosion, weeds, subsi- to the South Australian Government’s call for a developer dence or third party activity will primarily be conducted to deliver natural gas to meet the state’s current and future via regular aerial inspection. Access to the easement will be demands. Without the SEA Gas Project: necessary to follow-up issues identified from aerial inspec- • the increasing demand for energy is less likely to be met tions. and energy shortages are likely to continue in South Australia During operations, Easement Officers will maintain • new opportunities for gas powered developments, such regular contact with the owners of all properties traversed as SAMAG,are less likely to eventuate by the pipeline. • South Australia and Victoria’s current gas supply security problems are unlikely to be alleviated Decommissioning • a competitive gas supply market is unlikely to operate in If and when the pipeline is no longer required it will be South Australia and gas customers are unlikely to experi- decommissioned in accordance with the legislative ence gas price reductions requirements of the day. At such time it may be maintained • the Minerva and Yolla gas fields are unlikely to be devel- for possible future use (moth-balled) or disconnected and oped in the short term allowed to naturally degrade (abandoned). Removing the • new markets for Otway Basin gas discoveries are unlikely pipe from the ground is unlikely to be a commercially or to eventuate in the short term environmentally viable option. • the new supplies of LPG and refinery feedstock will not be provided for Victorian industry and commerce Project Alternatives • the direct benefits to the State economies from construc- There are a range of potential alternatives to the SEA Gas tion expenditure and the substantial longer-term bene- Project and choice between the various options occurs at a fits from Project operation will be lost number of levels. For example there are choices to be • Victoria will not receive the estimated extra $107 made between: million per annum in interstate exports

vi SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary

• the injection of up to $42 million into the regional viable via lateral pipelines off the main pipeline,rather than economies of the Project area will not occur,and deviating the pipeline closer to these areas. • an opportunity to contribute to Australia’s ability to meet its Greenhouse gas commitments will have been lost. Design and Construction Alternatives The basic design concepts for high pressure natural gas Alternative Energy Options pipelines are reasonably fixed,and few alternatives exist that The SEA Gas Project provides for the replacement of would lead to a different level of environmental impact. existing and future gas supplies into South Australia princi- However, at the construction phase, numerous alternatives pally for power generation. The only viable alternative to exist that may affect the environmental outcome. The meet the known demands is additional interconnection choice between alternative construction methods will be and generation in Victoria and New South Wales. Current made based on a set of agreed criteria. Such choices may proposed connections do not address the ongoing and also involve consultation and approval from regulatory future needs for substantial gas fired power generation. As agencies or external stakeholders. such, a significant increase in the supply of natural gas to South Australia’s gas powered electricity generation The Project Area industry is considered the only option available in the The SEA Gas Project traverses a variety of landscape types. short to medium term to address the State’s power require- To assist in describing the character of the existing environments. ment the Project area has been divided into eight land systems (or bioregions) with similar geological,topograph- Alternative Gas Supply Options ical,biological and / or landuse characteristics. The South Australian Government has sought to facilitate the development of a new pipeline from a basin other than The Coastal Southwestern Victoria bioregion extends the Cooper Basin as: from Port Campbell to the Hopkins River at Allansford. • pending significant new discoveries, the proven gas The bioregion is characterised by gently undulating plains reserves of the Cooper Basin will be substantially formed on flat-lying uplifted marine sediments sloping depleted by 2010,and gently to the east. Significant watercourses traversed by the • the pipeline system delivering gas from the Cooper Basin pipeline corridor include the Curdies and Hopkins Rivers. currently operates at full capacity at times of peak demand. Ill-defined drainage, swampy tracts and small boggy basins are common. The land is largely cleared to pasture and Two such options appear viable under current economic supports sheep,cattle and dairying. climate: • a pipeline from the Otway and Bass Basins off the coast The Volcanic Plains bioregion extends from Allansford of western Victoria,and to Grassdale. Broad undulating plains,interrupted in places • a pipeline from the Timor Sea, off the coast of the by low rounded hills and scattered volcanic cones dominate Northern Territory. the region. Steep sided but shallow valleys occupied by swampy watercourses, and patches of broken country SEA Gas is pursuing the Otway Basin option as it is consid- where younger lavas outcrop in the characteristic stony ered to be the most commercially viable and technically rises are also typical of the region. Major watercourses feasible. However, SEA Gas does not consider this as a traversed by the corridor include the Merri, Moyne, choice between these options and would welcome Timor Eumeralla and Crawford Rivers. The plains were previ- Sea gas entering the market. ously dominated by open grasslands and sedgelands with a mosaic of woodland,grassland,swamps and small patches of Corridor Alternatives forest however, the region has been predominantly cleared SEA Gas has considered a range of corridor options for the and developed for pasture. transmission pipeline. The results of the assessment identified a preferred 20km wide corridor between Minerva and The Dundas Tablelands bioregion extends from Murray Bridge. It was considered that all reasonable alter- Grassdale to Casterton. Landscapes within the Dundas native corridors involved greater environmental impact Tablelands are developed on soft, easily eroded sediments and posed greater environmental constraint. As part of the and include small remnant tableland sections standing broad project concept, provision of gas to regional centres above deep, broad valleys. Major watercourses include such as Portland and Mount Gambier,was considered most Merino and Deep Creeks and the southern section of the

vii Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Wannon River. The region has mostly been cleared of ments and strike ridges. Intermittent streams, such as native vegetation and is predominantly used for sheep and Milendella Creek, are dominant features, while waterholes cattle grazing. and soakages are common. The upper catchment of the South Para River is located within this bioregion. The The Wimmera Plains bioregion traverses a large tract region contains larger areas of remnant vegetation on from Casterton to Naracoorte. The eastern section of the private properties and conservation parks. However, the Wimmera Plains comprises a relatively flat surface devel- corridor traverses areas that have been extensively cleared oped on limestones and laterised sands. Watercourses leaving a landscape of open woodland and isolated trees. include the Glenelg River and upper reaches of the The principal landuses in the region are grazing, forestry, Wannon. Native vegetation communities are likely to have viticulture,mining and conservation. been dominated by open woodlands of River Red Gum over the heavier clay soils and associated with surface waters. The corridor traverses the Northern Adelaide Plains bioregion between Gawler and Torrens Island. The alluvial The western extension of the Wimmera Plains is slopes bounding the western edge of the Mount Lofty comprised of a flat dune-free plain in the south,and a dune Ranges adjoin the coastal plain that extends to a flat, poorly covered sand plain in the north. Substantial swampy drained landscape. The plains have been almost completely depressions are common throughout and are important cleared of native vegetation to allow agricultural and more habitat and breeding areas for waterbirds. Several intermit- recently residential and industrial landuses. The coastline was tent streams including Mosquito,Yelloch and Naracoorte originally bounded by a belt of ephemeral wetlands but these Creeks traverse the plain. have largely been reclaimed through drainage and development. Areas of mangrove remain in the coastal margins. The land is largely cleared to open parkland and pasture. Remnant forest and woodland are occasionally preserved Regional Climate around the lakes, swamps and creeklines and in Forest The Project area is characterised by a Mediterranean-type Reserves south of Dergholm. climate, of hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Rainfall is lowest in the Murraylands bioregion and highest The corridor traverses the Southern Mallee immediately in the Coastal Southwestern Victoria and Mount Lofty north of Naracoorte to approximately Cooke Plains, south Ranges bioregions. Winds are generally from the north of Tailem Bend. The bioregion is characterised by a flat, and east in summer and from the south and east during featureless landscape of impermeable soils subject to winter, with strongest winds occurring during spring and seasonal flooding. Morambro Creek represents the only summer. significant watercourse and some artificial drainage has also been constructed. The land has been extensively cleared Soils and Terrain and the plains are generally devoid of remnant vegetation The surface geology for much of the corridor consists of apart from roadside mallee remnants and small stands of tea unconsolidated or deeply weathered materials. Basement tree around the more swampy areas. Pastoral and agricul- rock exposure is restricted to small areas near Casterton and tural land-uses dominate. in the hills between Palmer and Gawler. The majority of the corridor traverses plains, low hills and tablelands with The corridor traverses the Murraylands bioregion gentle to moderate slopes. Steeper terrain is encountered between Cooke Plains and Palmer. Near the Murray south of Casterton where the Glenelg River and tributaries River, the plain becomes increasingly sandy with low incise the southern edge of the Dundas Tableland and there dunes and frequent calcrete outcrops. The floodplain is are locally steep sections in the Mount Lofty Ranges. under intensive dairying and is highly modified. The These areas also contain several wide, deep valleys, dominant remnant vegetation is mallee woodlands with although the watercourse channels contained in these are broombush or heath understorey. Remnant stands are small and have intermittent flow. Soils vary considerably commonly restricted to dune ridges. Grazing or cereal along the corridor in response to changes in parent mate- cultivation are the principal landuses. rials and climate.

The Mount Lofty Ranges bioregion extends from A number of features of geomorphological significance Palmer to Gawler. Landscapes vary from undulating plains occur on or near the pipeline corridor. Examples of locally to steep dissected marginal hills, gullies and gorges, escarp- significant sites include small sinkhole depressions in coastal

viii SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary southwestern Victoria, the terraced floodplain of the Merri Curdies, Hopkins, Merri, Crawford, Glenelg, Murray, River, the alluvial fan at the Curdies River crossing and Torrens and South Para Rivers. metamorphic textures displayed in the Rathjen Gneiss at Reedy Creek. The most significant geological feature Lakes, swamps, wetlands and other natural drainage soaks within the corridor is the stony basalt surface of the form part of the surface resources of the Project area. SEA Harman Valley Flow (lava) near Wallacedale. The SEA Gas Gas has selectively avoided these to minimise impacts. corridor has been realigned to avoid areas where the lava flow is considered to be of “national”significance. Project activities that may affect shallow groundwater include construction of the pipeline trench,de-watering of Project activities that have the potential to affect the soils the trench to aid construction, the storage and handling of and terrain include clear-and-grade operations, trenching small quantities of fuel and chemicals, and the presence of (including blasting), backfilling, refuelling, construction the back-filled trench during operation. access, and construction and operation of the construction depot (if required). Project activities that have the potential to affect surface waters include topsoil stripping, trenching activities, A number of potential localised impacts to the soils and storage and handling of small amounts of fuel and chemi- terrain of the Project area have been identified, including cals,hydrostatic testing and watercourse crossings. erosion and sedimentation, mass movement, soil inversion, soil compaction, soil contamination, acid sulphate soil Potential impacts to shallow groundwater include changes formation,and disturbance to significant geological features. to hydrological conditions, contamination and disturbance to groundwater infrastructure. No impacts to deep aquifers A range of mitigation measures has been proposed to are likely to occur. Potential impacts to surface water address these potential impacts. The application of appro- resources include increased sediment load and turbidity, priate avoidance and mitigation strategies will ensure that contamination, interruption or modification to surface all impacts to the soils and terrain of the Project area are drainage patterns and disruption to third party use of reduced to an acceptable level. surface waters. No impacts to surface water are expected during operation, following the successful restoration of Hydrology surface contours and stability. Shallow groundwater reserves occur in several regional locations along the pipeline corridor and areas where A range of mitigation measures have been proposed to exposed or shallow groundwater is likely to be encoun- address these potential impacts, including boring or hori- tered have been identified. The knowledge of groundwater zontal directional drilling major watercourse crossings to quality is limited to the broad salinity range. Through avoid impacts. The application of appropriate avoidance much of Victoria’s southwest, groundwater is fresh to and mitigation strategies will ensure that all impacts to the brackish and in South Australia exhibits highly variable water resources of the Project area are reduced to an salinity ranges, from fresh to salinity levels in excess of acceptable level. seawater. Emissions In addition, in South Australia the pipeline corridor trav- The environmental assessment addressed air emissions erses seven Prescribed Wells Areas and one Moratorium (including greenhouse gas) and noise emissions. Area (proclaimed under the Water Resources Act 1967). Good air quality, at both the regional and local scale, is Watercourses within the Project area range from small, expected within the Project area due to the lack of heavy turbulent streams in the steeply graded rocky gullies of the industry and population centres and the prevailing uplands to the broad,meandering rivers of the low hills and moderate to strong winds,which are oceanic in origin. No plains. Watercourses may be perennial (or permanent) major industrial emissions occur between Port Campbell streams, intermittent (or seasonal) streams or ephemeral and Murray Bridge. Ambient air quality in the Adelaide streams, which only flow for short periods after heavy rain. Plains region is particularly dependent on industrial emis- The pipeline will cross many watercourses, which may sions as well as daily and seasonal climatic conditions such contain water, depending on the time of year. Principal as prevailing winds and atmospheric inversion layers and a watercourses traversed by the pipeline corridor include the range of industrial emission sources exist. On a smaller

ix Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR scale, local industrial emissions are notable from the prices. This in turn will increase the market penetration Murray Bridge area. of gas, displacing more greenhouse gas intensive fuels such as coal and petroleum products. Project activities that have the potential to affect the air • Gas from the SEA Gas Project has the potential to quality include earthworks, construction vehicles and equip- displace more greenhouse gas intensive fuels in elec- ment, operation of the Yallamurray Compressor Station and tricity generation through the use of open cycle gas operation of the pipeline and associated infrastructure. turbines, combined cycle gas turbines, cogeneration plants and/or micro gas turbines. Appropriate management will prevent or successfully mitigate minor impacts to air quality resulting from the genera- The level of reduction in regional greenhouse gas emis- tion of dust, vehicle and equipment emissions and sions depends on end-point gas usage,government policies compressor station and pipeline emissions. In particular, and developments in the National Electricity Market. atmospheric dispersion modelling of emissions from the Yallamurray Compressor Station indicates that the Ecology predicted ground level concentrations of gaseous emissions The area traversed by the pipeline corridor has largely been comply with relevant standards for South Australia. cleared of native vegetation and is primarily used for agriculture. Areas of remnant woodland and grassland that do The pipeline corridor intentionally avoids densely popu- remain are restricted to conservation parks, forest reserves, lated areas. However, in some circumstances, the pipeline small stands of vegetation and isolated individual trees on will be constructed within 50m of residences. Between private property,riparian corridors and road reserves. The Port Campbell and Gawler, ambient noise conditions are pipeline corridor avoids all areas proclaimed for flora and dominated by incidental traffic and agricultural noise such fauna conservation and traverses land that is principally as general landholder and resident activities. Exceptions cleared and developed. It passes through a limited amount include the larger rural townships located along the route of degraded native vegetation, and only 1km of the 670km such as Allansford, Casterton, Murray Bridge and Mount total length (0.15%) contains substantially intact vegetation Pleasant, where an increase in traffic, residential and small that may be impacted by the pipeline. industrial based noise is expected. Some areas of ecological sensitivity, where impacts may Between Gawler and Torrens Island the representative occur, have been identified along the proposed route landscape and land uses change from rural-residential to during the ecological assessment. Project activities that urban-industrial. Traffic from major arterial roads, airport have the potential to affect ecological values include movements, heavy industry, and to a lesser extent local creation of construction access, clear-and-grade opera- traffic vehicle noise, contributes significantly to the tions,trenching,blasting and earthworks. ambient noise environment. Appropriate management will be required to prevent Project activities that have the potential to generate adverse impacts to the ecological values such as the removal of noise impacts include the movement and operation of remnant vegetation, fauna mortality, the destruction or construction vehicles and equipment, blasting of rock fragmentation of fauna habitats, disruption to critical fauna areas, horizontal directional drilling, operation of the lifecycle stages, loss of biodiversity, spread of ecological Yallamurray Compressor Station and operation of the weeds and spread of pathogens. pipeline and associated infrastructure. Regional-specific goals for impact mitigation have been With adequate management noise impacts can be successfully developed to address these issues, and strategies for mitiga- mitigated. In particular, modelling demonstrates that noise tion and pipeline corridor rehabilitation outlined. The emissions from the Yallamurray Compressor Station will be adoption of these mitigation strategies will reduce potential below 35dB(A) at all residences in the immediate area. adverse impacts on flora and fauna to an acceptable level.

The SEA Gas Project will contribute to a reduction in Cultural Heritage regional greenhouse gas emissions in two main ways: The indigenous cultural heritage setting of the Project area • The Project will introduce ‘gas on gas’competition into was assessed based on a combination of available literature, South Australia with the potential to lower real gas the results of Project specific consultation, predictive

x SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary modelling and field survey. Indigenous archaeological sites identifying significant regional expenditures and local within the Project area are likely to have been impacted purchases of goods and services. The approximate value of through widespread land clearance, a prolonged history of these purchases was determined by reference to previous agricultural land practices and rural and urban develop- gas pipeline projects and allocated on a pro-rata basis, ment. Despite this, a broad range and a large number of reflecting the distance of pipe through each regional sites have been recorded throughout the Project area. economic sub-division. The assessment estimated the total These include earthen mound sites, quarries, scarred trees, direct and indirect regional expenditure during the burials,isolated artefacts,stone fish traps,stone artefact scat- construction phase of the Project to be in the order of $42 ters and campsites, stone arrangements, middens and art million. sites. Numerous locations within the Project area are considered to be of high archaeological sensitivity. In addi- Land Use tion to a number of previously recorded sites, three new The Project predominantly traverses pastoral and agricul- sites have been recorded within the current corridor. tural properties. Land uses within the Project area include cropping, dairy, stock grazing, viticulture, conservation, An assessment of historical heritage was also conducted. At mining,light industry,recreation and residential. a regional level, historical heritage sites include those associated with early settlement, pastoral expansion, road and The Project activities that have the potential to affect the rail, gold, timber and soldier settlement and may involve land use activities include construction access, earthworks, items or features such as homesteads, bridges, wells, stone materials transport and storage and the storage and walls and graves. Three previously recorded sites and seven handling of small quantities of fuel and chemicals. new sites within the immediate area of the pipeline corridor were identified. Potential impacts to land use include: • adverse effects to agricultural productivity or primary Project activities that have the potential to affect the production cultural heritage values include the creation of construc- • disruption to important land use periods (such as, tion access, clear-and-grade operations, trenching and calving,lambing,breeding,sowing,or harvesting) horizontal directional drilling. • spread of noxious weeds,pests and diseases,and • disruption to conservation, recreational, industrial or Commonwealth and State legislation require the approval other third party land use activities. of regulatory authorities and local Aboriginal communities before Aboriginal objects or sites can be disturbed or The Project will not impact any proclaimed parks or damaged. reserves and will have no effect on the World Heritage values of the Naracoorte Caves. The National Estate values Potential impacts to indigenous heritage include damage of the Reedy Creek and Macarthur areas will not be to shallow artefact scatters, damage to subsurface material directly impacted by the Project. and damage to significant vegetation (such as scarred trees). Unintentional damage to items of historical heritage are A range of mitigation measures have been proposed to less likely as these sites are more readily identifiable. address potential impacts. The application of appropriate avoidance and mitigation strategies will ensure that all A range of management measures have been proposed. impacts to the land uses of the Project area are reduced to SEA Gas is confident that by undertaking further detailed an acceptable level. survey work, working closely with regulatory agencies and community representatives, and with the application of Visual Amenity existing protocols and appropriate impact avoidance and Buried pipelines, by their very nature, have a low level of mitigation strategies, all potential adverse effects to cultural impact on visual amenity. Generally this is restricted to heritage can be reduced to an acceptable level. short term disturbances associated with construction earthworks and localised impacts associated with the pres- Regional Economic Issues ence of above ground facilities. SEA Gas is confident that The Project will generate significant benefits for regional with the application of appropriate design and mitigation communities in the Project area. Estimates of the regional strategies, there will be no significant long term impacts to economic implications of the Project were determined by the visual amenity of the Project area.

xi Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Third Party Infrastructure with the aim of achieving the overall Project objectives – A range of third party infrastructure is present within the including minimising environmental impacts. The Project Project area. This includes the road and rail network,public will continue to be refined during each phase. The key to utilities (such as gas pipelines, telecommunications, water the success of this process is sufficiently defining the Project and power utilities) and private property (such as gates and prior to approval to enable impacts to be confidently fences). predicted and to ensure that any changes are minor and occur within an agreed management framework. Impacts to third party infrastructure can be easily mitigated Underpinning this approach are the principles that any by careful pre-construction planning and appropriate refinement: consultation with relevant regulatory authorities, public • must improve the Project’s performance against its stated utility service companies and landholders. objectives, including the need to minimise environmental impacts,and Public Safety and Risk • is subject to a range of “checks and balances”that ensure Pipelines are recognised as a safe and efficient means of that the Project meets both its legislative requirements transporting natural gas. However, all developments and the reasonable expectations of the community. present some level of risk. As part of the preliminary engineering, a preliminary pipeline risk assessment and has The process of ongoing refinement involves the develop- been completed. A detailed risk assessment will be carried ment of management systems and key documents,such as: out before construction in accordance with AS 2885.1 – • the Statement of Environmental Objectives (reviewed 1997. after one year) • the Construction Environmental Management Plan In accordance with AS 2885,a combination of physical and • the Alignment Sheets procedural measures will be applied to ensure the pipeline • the Typical and Site-Specific Drawings,and design and management meet appropriate safety standards. • the Line List.

Consultation Minor refinements to the Project design, pipeline align- SEA Gas Project personnel have actively sought stake- ment and proposed construction measures take place holder input to the environmental assessment process. within an agreed framework. Many refinements will Consultation to date has been specific to the initial plan- require specific approvals from regulatory authorities. In ning and approvals phase of the SEA Gas Project. addition, the Construction Environmental Management However, SEA Gas recognises that consultation is an Plan requires the approval of the Department of Natural ongoing process and shall continue to facilitate discussion Resources and Environment in Victoria and will be with all stakeholders throughout the duration of the provided to Primary Industries and Resources South Project. Australia.

The SEA Gas Project has placed a high priority on SEA Gas will approach environmental management in a communication with key stakeholders and has sought to systematic manner consistent with accepted industry prac- actively engage relevant Ministers, politicians, regulatory tice. A project specific system of management will be agencies,local government,private landowners / occupiers developed consistent with internationally recognised stan- and utilities operators, non-government organisations, dards for environmental management systems, and will Aboriginal heritage groups and native title claimants, the comprise: general public and media. A range of consultation and • a corporate policy stating SEA Gas’ commitment to information dissemination measures have been employed conduct activities in an environmentally responsible including meetings, site visits, letters, facsimiles, informa- manner (see Appendix 1) tion brochures,press releases and the Project Website. • clearly stated objectives consistent with this commitment SEA Gas Environmental Management Strategy • practical procedures to achieve the objectives Traditionally,pipeline projects develop through a sequence • clearly defined responsibilities for personnel to indi- of seven phases:pre-feasibility,assessment,approval,detailed cate their obligations regarding environmental manage- design, construction, operation and decommissioning. ment During each phase, an increasing level of detail is acquired • appropriate induction and training of personnel

xii SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Summary

• comprehensive monitoring and auditing programs to South Australia and Victoria. The Project will help alle- assess compliance with procedures and the achievement viate South Australia’s predicted energy shortages and of objectives provide new opportunities for gas powered developments • a system of reporting for recording of data and notifica- in both Victoria and South Australia. The completion of tion of relevant personnel,and the Adelaide – Melbourne – Sydney pipeline transmission • ongoing consultation to seek input from and inform all network will facilitate increased competition and reduce parties of relevant issues. gas prices.

Commitments The pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid all conser- SEA Gas is committed to responsible environmental vation parks and reserves, remnant vegetation, areas of management, and to fulfilling the responsibilities and instability, sites of cultural significance and sensitive land commitments made in the EER/EIR. As such, SEA Gas uses, wherever practicable. Specialist studies have commits to the following: concluded that with the application of appropriate design • to comply with all statutory laws and regulations, standards, engineering controls and environmental permit/licence requirements and industry Codes of management measures, no significant adverse impacts are Practice expected. In particular,SEA Gas is confident that: • to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals prior to • erosion and sedimentation will be adequately controlled construction • potential impacts associated with acid sulphate soils will • to design and construct the pipeline in accordance with be mitigated the Australian Pipeline Code AS 2885 and in a manner • localised terrain constraints will be managed that protects public safety • adverse impacts to groundwater will be reduced to an • to conduct further targeted fieldwork to assist in the acceptable level development of site specific management strategies • watercourses will be protected • to prepare, implement and adhere to a project specific • air and noise emissions will meet regulatory requirements Construction Environmental Management Plan during • ecological values will be protected and significant the detailed design phase impacts to rare and endangered species and communities • to prepare Alignment Sheets and a Line List during the will be avoided detailed design phase that detail all site specific environ- • sites of indigenous and non-indigenous cultural heritage mental management measures to be adopted during importance will be managed in consultation with construction community representatives and in accordance with a • to ensure an appropriate environmental induction and strict protocol education program is implemented to instruct construc- • disturbance to sensitive land uses such as dairying, tion workers regarding the environmental management forestry, viticulture, residential and recreation will be measures and requirements to be adopted during the successfully minimised and where practicable avoided construction phase of the Project • landowners will be suitably compensated for any • to keep all stakeholders appropriately informed of the unavoidable impact Project’s progress and relevant environmental manage- • disruption to public and private infrastructure will be ment issues avoided where practicable and where such interference is • to monitor critical areas post-construction to ensure site necessary it will be localised, small scale and managed in stability and successful rehabilitation progress consultation with the owner,and • to rectify any rehabilitation or stability problems identi- • public safety will be protected. fied during the monitoring program • to carry out a post-construction environmental audit of To ensure these outcomes are achieved, SEA Gas will inte- the pipeline,and rectify any identified problems,and grate environmental management principles and proce- • to address any damage caused to roads, bridges, property dures into the detailed design and construction processes. infrastructure or any other private property caused by In particular, SEA Gas will prepare a Construction construction or associated activities. Environmental Management Plan, which will outline the environmental objectives, roles and responsibilities for Conclusions environmental management, site specific environmental The SEA Gas Project is an important new energy develop- management procedures, training programs and moni- ment that will increase the security of gas supply for both toring,auditing and reporting systems.

xiii Summary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

SEA Gas firmly believes that the Project offers numerous and substantial community benefits that significantly outweigh any potential adverse environmental or social impacts.

xiv SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Preface ...... i

Summary ...... iii

Part One: Introduction...... 1

1 Introduction ...... 3 1.1 The Need for the SEA Gas Project 1.2 Background 1.3 Project Proponent 1.4 Environmental Commitment 1.5 About This Document

2 Legislative Framework ...... 9 2.1 Victorian Approvals 2.2 South Australian Approvals 2.3 Commonwealth Approvals 2.4 Subsequent Approvals 2.5 State Policy Frameworks 2.6 Easement Acquisition

3 Project Description ...... 15 3.1 Project Overview 3.2 Pipeline Route 3.3 Project Schedule 3.4 Pipeline Design 3.5 Above Ground Facilities 3.6 Lateral Pipelines 3.7 Construction Activities 3.8 Operation 3.9 Decommissioning

4 Project Alternatives...... 27 4.1 The “No Project”Alternative 4.2 Alternative Energy Options 4.3 Alternative Gas Supply Options 4.4 Corridor Alternatives 4.5 Design and Construction Alternatives

xv Table of Contents SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Part Two: Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation ...... 31

5 Overview...... 33 5.1 The Project Area 5.2 SEA Gas Environmental Management Strategy

6 Soils and Terrain...... 45 6.1 Existing Environment 6.2 Potential Impacts 6.3 Impact Mitigation 6.4 Conclusion

7 Hydrology...... 55 7.1 Groundwater 7.2 Surface Water 7.3 Watercourse Crossings 7.4 Conclusion

8 Emissions ...... 67 8.1 Air Emissions 8.2 Noise Emissions 8.3 Greenhouse Gas 8.4 Conclusion

9 Ecology ...... 79 9.1 Methodology 9.2 Existing Environment 9.3 Potential Impacts 9.4 Impact Mitigation 9.5 Conclusion

10 Cultural Heritage...... 95 10.1 Indigenous Heritage 10.2 Historical Heritage 10.3 Conclusion

11 Socio-Economic Issues ...... 107 11.1 Regional Economic Issues 11.2 Land Use 11.3 Visual Amenity 11.4 Third Party Infrastructure 11.5 Public Safety and Risk 11.6 Waste Management 11.7 Hazardous Storage, Spill and Emergency Response Management 11.8 Conclusion

xvi SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Table of Contents

Part Three: Conclusions ...... 129

12 Consultation ...... 131 12.1 Approach and Rationale 12.2 Aims and Guiding Principles 12.3 Key Stakeholders 12.4 Methods 12.5 Outcomes 12.6 Summary

13 Commitments ...... 139

14 Conclusions ...... 141

Acknowledgements ...... 143 Abbreviations ...... 145 Glossary ...... 147 Bibliography...... 149

Appendices Appendix I: SEA Gas Environmental Policy ...... A1 Appendix II: Noise Modelling ...... A2 Appendix III: Ecology...... A3 Appendix IV: Preliminary Risk Assessment...... A4 Appendix V: Stakeholder Consultations ...... A5

Plates

Maps

xvii SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

xviii SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Part I – Introduction

1 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 1: Introduction

1 Introduction

The SEA Gas Project is an important new strategic energy 1.1 The Need for the SEA Gas Project supply development for southeastern Australia,which aims to protect future gas supplies for both South Australia and The SEA Gas Project will increase the security of future gas Victoria. Central to the SEA Gas Project is a 670km trans- supply for both South Australia and Victoria and will create mission pipeline that will complete the Adelaide- a truly competitive gas market for southeastern Australia. Melbourne-Sydney high pressure gas transmission links. The Governments of both States have identified a new, independent source of energy as a strategic priority. Australian National Power and Origin Energy have formed the joint venture company South East Australia The South Australian natural gas market is currently Gas Pty Ltd (SEA Gas),to develop the Project. dependent on gas supplies from the Cooper / Eromanga Basin in the northeast of South Australia and southwest The proposed Port Campbell to Adelaide pipeline will Queensland. This gas is processed at a single facility and commence at the Iona Gas Plant, northeast of Port transported via a single pipeline from Moomba to Campbell,connect to the Minerva Gas Plant and terminate Adelaide. In addition, 60% of the State’s electricity is at the Pelican Point Offtake Station on Torrens Island north generated by gas powered facilities. The State has suffered of Adelaide (see Map 1). Construction is scheduled to significant energy shortages on occasions when interrup- commence in the third quarter of 2002, with the first tions have occurred to the existing gas supply, processing delivery of commissioning gas in October 2003 and or transportation network. commencement of commercial operation by January 2004. Victoria’s natural gas supply is dominated by the Bass Strait fields with gas processed at Esso’s Longford Plant. The SEA The pipeline will transport at least 70 petajoules (PJ) of Gas Project will provide a means of maintaining gas natural gas per year for the foundation shippers including supplies to metropolitan and regional Victorian consumers Australian National Power, Origin Energy and SAMAG. in the event of disruption to Bass Strait supplies. The SEA Gas Project has an established market with the foundation shippers accounting for more than 75% of Completion of the Adelaide – Melbourne – Sydney high current gas demand in South Australia. Additional pipeline pressure gas transmission links will stimulate competition capacity will be provided for third party access and addi- between gas producers and between gas transporters, tional customers are expected to be contracted prior to resulting in commercial benefits for industrial and commissioning. In this regard, SEA Gas is planning for domestic gas consumers. In particular, the Project will beyond 70PJ per annum to be transported. Furthermore, provide opportunity for long term competitive gas supplies SEA Gas is pursuing regional markets and expects to as new gas fields are developed and compete to meet develop lateral pipelines to centres such as Portland, growing market demands. Casterton and Naracoorte and to tie into the existing local transmission and distribution network at Katnook in the The SEA Gas Project will provide a range of further southeast of South Australia. substantial benefits to both South Australia and Victoria as it will: Gas will initially be sourced from the Iona Gas Plant, the • stimulate the development of the Minerva and Yolla gas proposed Minerva and Yolla fields and the Gippsland Basin, fields (see Figure 1-1) with long term supplies expected to be drawn from fields • create a new market for recent substantial offshore such as Geographe and Thylacine (see Figure 1-1). As such, Otway Basin Gas discoveries it is predicted that the $250 million SEA Gas Project will • provide considerable economic benefits at the regional, underpin regional petroleum developments in Victoria State and National levels (see Chapter 11) estimated to be valued at more than $1 billion. • provide substantive new sources of LPG and refinery feedstock for Victorian industry and commerce,and • contribute to Australia’s ability to meet its Greenhouse gas commitments (see Chapter 8).

3 Map 1: SEA Gas Project Location Map

4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 1: Introduction

1.2 Background world with assets in thirteen countries, primarily the United States, Europe and Australia. Australian National In June 2000, the South Australian Government called for Power’s head office is located in Melbourne and the expressions of interest for the provision of a new gas supply company’s main assets in Australia are: into the State. The development concept preferred by the • Hazelwood Power Station1 in Victoria which consists of Government was construction of a transmission pipeline to eight 200MW units access gas from the Victorian Otway Basin. An intensive • four Synergen peaking stations in South Australia, screening process followed and in March 2001 the State totaling 360MW,and Government selected the Australian National Power / • new Pelican Point Combined Cycle 487MW power Origin Energy / SAMAG alliance as the preferred pipeline station2. development proponent. Australian National Power has over 600 employees, mostly On the 1st March 2001 the South Australian Government in Victoria. and the development alliance signed a key Facilitation Agreement for the Project. As part of this agreement the World wide, International Power’s electricity generating Proponents are required to build a pipeline with an initial capacity includes: capacity of at least 45 PJ/annum with the potential for the • over 8847MW (net) in operation capacity to be increased to 60 PJ/annum, and to complete • 2351MW (net) under construction or commissioning, the project by January 2004. and • 8000MW (net) in advanced development.

1.3.2 Origin Energy

Origin Energy is a major Australian company occupying a unique position in Australia as an integrated energy provider. Origin undertakes a range of business activities, principally: • natural gas exploration and production • natural gas,electricity and LPG retailing and trading • power and co-generation with over 500MW in operation or under development,and • energy infrastructure, investment and management services.

Origin Energy has over 2200 Australian employees and supplies energy to over 1.8 million customers throughout Figure 1-1: Location of Gas Fields Australia. The company manages 18 000km of natural gas pipelines.

1.3 Project Proponent Origin Energy is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in the top 100 companies with a current market capitalisa- SEA Gas is a joint venture company established specifically tion of approximately $1.7 billion. to develop the SEA Gas Project. The company is owned equally by Australian National Power and Origin Energy. 1.3.3 Pre-construction Project Team A brief profile of the two shareholding companies is provided below. SEA Gas has formed a Project Team for the pre-construction phase of the Project. The team comprises personnel 1.3.1 Australian National Power seconded from Australian National Power and Origin Energy as well as specialist consulting firms. The structure Australian National Power is a part of International Power, and composition of the Project Team is outlined in one of the largest independent power companies in the Figure 1-2.

1 92% owned by Australian National Power. 5 2 Development approval exists for a further 300MW Chapter 1: Introduction SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Figure 1-2:Project Team Structure and Composition.

1.4 Environmental Commitment The document is referred to as an Environment Effects Report (EER) in Victoria and as an Environmental Impact SEA Gas is committed to responsible environmental Report (EIR) under the South Australian Petroleum Act management for the construction and operation of the 2000. Project and believes that any potential adverse environmental effects can be effectively managed in a manner that The environmental assessment process comprised: complies with the requirements of this document,as well as: desk top review of scientific, planning and land manage- • all relevant State and Commonwealth laws and regulations ment documentation • SEA Gas Environmental Policy (Appendix 1) • site assessments of proposed route and alignment • relevant industry standards (such as Australian Standard • specialist studies (including field assessment) 2885, EPA guidelines and ANZECC water quality • flora and fauna – Ecology Australia Pty Ltd criteria),and • cultural heritage – Vivienne Wood Heritage • the Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA) Code Consultant of Environmental Practice 19983. • soils and terrain – Ecology Australia (Neville Rosengren) SEA Gas also recognises its community obligation to take • socio-economic – Saturn Corporate Resources and all practicable steps to ensure its operations and activities Ecos Consulting (Aust) are conducted in an efficient and environmentally sustain- • greenhouse gas emission – Saturn Corporate able manner. Resources • hydrology – Steve Pugh (Hydrogeologist) and Ecos Consulting (Aust) 1.5 About This Document • air and noise emissions (compressor station) – Enviromet, Consulting Air pollution Modelling & Ecos Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd was commissioned by SEA Meteorology and Watson Moss Growcott acoustics Gas to coordinate an assessment of the proposed SEA Gas • a comprehensive consultation program involving land- Project, including assessing the current environment, iden- holders, regulatory agencies, local councils, special tifying potential environmental impacts and constraints interest and community groups associated with the construction and operation of the • analysis of potential impacts and integration of the natural gas pipeline, and recommending suitable measures outcomes into a cohesive assessment,and to mitigate identified impacts. • development of a systematic process for impact mitigation. This document has been produced to satisfy pipeline permit and licence application requirements under This EER/EIR documents the key findings of the envi- Victorian and South Australian legislation (see Chapter 2). ronmental assessment and consists of three parts.

3 The APIA Code of Environmental Practice provides minimum environmental 6 management standards for pipeline planning, design and construction. SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 1: Introduction

Part One provides: • a background and introduction to the SEA Gas Project and the joint venture proponents • a description of the environmental legislative and regulatory framework which will govern Project development, and • a detailed description of the Project, including route alignment, Project alternatives and activities associated with construction, operation and decommissioning of the pipeline and associated facilities.

Part Two includes: • a description of the existing environment associated with the proposed route • the identification and assessment of environmental hazards associated with the Project and their potential consequences (impacts),and • recommended management strategies and mitigation measures by which potential consequences/impacts can be avoided or minimised.

Part Three concludes by outlining: • the methods and outcomes of the Stakeholder Consultation Program • Project conclusions • environmental commitments for the following phases of the Project development,and • acknowledgments,abbreviations,glossary and references.

A Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) has also been prepared for the SEA Gas Project and will be exhibited in South Australia concurrently with the EER/EIR. The intent of the SEO is to outline the environmental objectives to which construction, operation and decommissioning activities must conform and the criteria upon which achievement of these objectives will be assessed.

7 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

8 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 2: Legislative Framework

2 Legislative Framework

The SEA Gas Project will be subject to a range of planning Environmental Effects Statement (EES) or other suitable and environmental approvals under Victorian, South assessment process is required from the Minister of Australian and Commonwealth legislation. The major Planning. The level of assessment is based on the approvals required are: ANZECC Criteria for environmental impact assessments, • Pipeline Permit and Pipeline Licence in Victoria which includes the scale of the project,the sensitivity of the • Pipeline Licence in South Australia,and environment, frameworks as to how impacts will be • (possibly) approval under the Environment Protection and managed and the extent of community interest. Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act). The Minister for Planning has determined that an EES will As part of the decision to grant these approvals,the govern- not be required for the SEA Gas Project,and that an EER is a ments of both states must consider the potential environ- suitable environmental assessment document to support the mental effects of the Project. To facilitate this process SEA pipeline licence application under the Pipelines Act. Gas must prepare an impact assessment document that: • describes the environment of the Project area and high- Review Process lights any areas of particular sensitivity Upon submission of a pipeline permit and licence applica- • identifies the potential impacts to the environment that tion (and the EER),the following steps apply: may result from the Project,and • The Minister for Resources and Energy must advertise • outlines the measures proposed to avoid or mitigate all the applications for a period of 30 days concurrently with potential effects. any environmental documentation for public review. • During the public review period, written submissions 2.1 Victorian Approvals from interested parties are considered by the project proponent and the Minister. The Minister will review all Major approvals required under Victorian legislation are submissions prior to granting any permit or licence to outlined in Table 2-1. determine whether they have been addressed in a satisfactory manner by the project proponent. The Victorian Pipelines Act 1967 provides for a two-stage • Once the Minister has decided to issue a permit, the approval process, with the first stage authorising the route Minister for Planning must prepare a planning scheme and the second stage the pipeline construction. Under the amendment,where appropriate,in order to make munic- Act, a permit is required to own and use a pipeline. The ipal planning schemes compatible with the proposed use. permit must be granted prior to a licence being issued to It must also be noted that the issuing of a pipeline permit construct and operate the pipeline. The pipeline permit under the Pipelines Act exempts the proponent from and licence are obtained from the Minister for Resources having to apply for planning permits or to exhibit amend- and Energy,via Minerals and Petroleum Victoria (MPV). ments under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. • The Minister is also required to notify government Before the issuing of a permit, the development of a gas departments, public authorities, landholders and other pipeline may require an environmental assessment under parties who may be affected by the Project of the the Environment Effects Act 1978. Accordingly,the propo- pipeline licence application. nent requested a determination as to whether an

Table 2-1: Major Project Approvals – Victoria Approval Purpose Legislation Agency Pipeline Permit To own and use a pipeline. Pipelines Act 1967 • Minerals and Petroleum Victoria. Pipeline Licence To construct and operate Pipelines Act 1967 • Minerals and Petroleum Victoria. the pipeline. Environmental For the assessment of Environment Effects • Department of Infrastructure. Approval environmental impacts. Act 1978

9 Chapter 2: Legislative Framework SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

2.2 South Australian Approvals • an assessment of the potential consequences of environmental hazards on the environment (extent,duration and Major approvals for construction and operation of the proposed mitigation measures) project required under South Australian legislation are • an explanation of the basis on which the consequences of outlined in Table 2-2. hazards have been predicted,and • information on consultation undertaken during the In South Australia,a pipeline licence authorises the licensee preparation of the EIR. to construct and operate a transmission pipeline. The pipeline licence application must be advertised for a period of Once the EIR (and accompanying Statement of at least 30 business days before the application is determined. Environmental Objectives (SEO)) is submitted to PIRSA, the agency assesses the document as to whether the activi- Review of the Applications ties are to be classified as low,medium or high impact. This In accordance with Section 97 of the Petroleum Act 2000, in turn determines the level of consultation required prior the SEA Gas Project Environmental Impact Report (EIR) to final approval of the SEO. must: • Low Impact activities do not require public consultation, • take into account cultural, amenity and other values of and an SEO may be approved after internal government Aboriginal and other Australians in so far as those values approval. are relevant to the assessment • Medium Impact activities require a public consultation • take into account risks inherent in the regulated activities process for the EIR and proposed SEO, with comment to the health and safety of the public,and sought for a period of at least 30 business days. • contain sufficient information to make possible an • High Impact activities are required to be assessed under informed assessment of the likely impact of the activities the provisions of the Development Act 1993. on the environment. The level of impact of a particular activity is assessed on the As per Regulation 10 of the Petroleum Regulations 2000 the basis of the predictability and manageability of the impacts EIR must include: on the environment. Where the environmental impacts are • a description of the activities to be carried out under the predictable and readily managed, the impact of the activity licence is considered low. Where the environmental impacts are • a description of the specific site features of the environ- less predictable and are difficult to manage, the impact of ment that can reasonably be expected to be affected by the activity is potentially high. the activities • an assessment of the cultural values of Aboriginal and It is a mandatory condition of every licence that the other Australians licensee must comply with an approved SEO relevant to • identification and assessment of foreseeable environmental activities carried out under the licence. The SEO has been hazards that could potentially be associated with the activi- prepared as a separate document to this EER/EIR. ties (including events during the construction, operational and abandonment stage as well as atypical events) Once the approval process is complete all documentation, including EIR and SEO, must be entered on an environ- Table 2-2: Major Project Approvals – South Australia Approval Purpose Legislation Agency Pipeline Licence To construct and operate Petroleum Act 2000 • Primary Industries and Resources the pipeline. South Australia (PIRSA) SEO Approval To acknowledge and accept Petroleum Act 2000 • PIRSA the proposed environmental objectives of the Project and the means by which these will be measured. EIR Review To determine the level of Petroleum Act 2000 • PIRSA environmental significance and to support the establishment of the SEO.

10 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 2: Legislative Framework mental register. This public register resides on the PIRSA • does not involve Commonwealth marine waters internet so that community access is readily available, • does not involve Commonwealth land,and which will facilitate an openness, transparency and • is not a nuclear action. accountability in the decision making process (McDonough,2000). SEA Gas is confident that significant impacts to the listed threatened species, communities and migratory species can Compressor Station be avoided. SEA Gas will determine the appropriate As discussed in Section 3.5,a compressor station is planned strategy for Commonwealth environmental assessment, to be located on the pipeline easement northeast of after the alignment of the pipeline has been finalised and Padthaway in South Australia. Approval for the compressor site specific mitigation strategies have been developed. station is managed under the pipeline licence application Both these actions will follow Government and commu- process and an additional approval is not required. nity input to the Project in response to this EER/EIR as However,the Minister for Minerals and Energy needs to be part of the detailed design phase (see Sections 3.2 and 5.2). certain that the compressor station design meets with the As such, Commonwealth environmental approval, if requirements of the Environment Protection Act 1993. required,will be undertaken as a separate process.

Further compressor stations may be required to meet addi- 2.3.2 Native Title tional pipeline capacity demands in the future. Approvals for these additional stations will be sought if and when Under the Commonwealth Native Title Act 1993, indige- required. nous land rights apply to registered Crown Land titles intersected by the pipeline. The SEA Gas Project is likely to intersect Crown Land at a small number of locations 2.3 Commonwealth Approvals (particularly watercourses). Under the Act, indigenous land rights are extinguished where the land is held under 2.3.1 Environment Protection and freehold title, registered as road reserves or under forestry Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (that is,secondary land use).

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act At the present time, the proposed SEA Gas Project inter- 1999 (EPBC Act) has been developed to provide for the sects three registered native title claims. In Victoria, the protection of environmental matters that are recognised as native title claimants are: being of ‘national environmental significance’. • the Gournditch – Mara: registered claim in the areas of Consequently,proponents must identify aspects of a devel- Glenelg,Moyne and West Wimmera. opment that may trigger a Commonwealth environmental assessment under the EPBC Act. The following issues of The pipeline will not intersect the registered claim of the ‘national environmental significance’ may potentially Wotjobaluk people, which is located in the South trigger a Commonwealth assessment: Grampians and West Wimmera areas,north of the corridor. • World Heritage Area • wetlands of international importance (Ramsar wetlands) Within South Australia,the native title claimants are: • listed threatened species and communities • the Ngarrindjeri and other registered claimants: regis- • listed migratory species (for example JAMBA and tered claim in the southeast of South Australia,and CAMBA) • the Kaurna Peoples: registered claim over the Adelaide • protection of the environment from nuclear actions area. • marine environment • additional matters of national environmental signifi- Other issues of particular note are: cance,and • the Memorandum of Understanding between the • activities undertaken on Commonwealth land. Ngarrindjeri heritage group and Native Title claimants, and A number of these triggers are not relevant to this Project, • the registered Indigenous Land Use Agreements as it: between BHP Petroleum and the Framlingham • will not impact any World Heritage areas Aboriginal Trust and the Kirrae Whurrong Native Title • will not impact Ramsar Wetlands Group in Victoria’s southwest.

11 Chapter 2: Legislative Framework SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Consultation with all Native Title claimants and heritage 2.5 State Policy Frameworks groups regarding heritage issues, project development and potential community involvement commenced in May Victoria Planning Provisions 2001, with the aim of identifying concerns and developing The purpose of the Victorian planning provisions (VPP) is appropriate strategies to ensure all concerns are addressed. to provide the municipalities with a state and local planning policy framework in which the use and development The Native Title process will be undertaken in accordance of lands within municipalities are managed. Under the with all legislative requirements under the Act, in full State’s framework, the primary objective of gas pipeline consultation with relevant claimants, heritage groups and development projects is to ensure that adequate buffers are regulatory agencies. planned from residents,residential zones and other sensitive land uses, with minimal impacts to waterways, wetlands, 2.3.3 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flora and fauna,erosion prone areas and other environmen- Heritage Protection Act 1984 tally sensitive locations (VPP Section 18.11). Project planning must also provide for environmental management The Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander during construction and operation. Heritage Protection Act 1984 aims to preserve and protect from injury or desecration,areas,sites and objects of partic- The approval of a planning scheme amendment under the ular significance to Aboriginals in accordance with Pipeline Act 1967 does not require additional permits to be Aboriginal tradition, anywhere in Australia. The Act obtained under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 for provides the option to protect Aboriginal heritage where project works undertaken within municipal designated State and Territory laws are ineffective or have not been planning zones and overlay areas (provided that the activity effectively enforced. The Minister is able to make short or is permissible). long term declarations to protect an Aboriginal heritage area or object if they are under threat of injury or desecra- Victorian Vegetation Management Framework tion. The SEA Gas Project will be consistent with the aims of Victoria’s Draft Native Vegetation Management Framework. Where State or Territory laws are considered effective, SEA Gas will adopt the ‘Net Gain’1 approach,by seeking ‘to Commonwealth protection will not be given. In Victoria, protect and enhance significant values, to avoid impacts, under section 2A of the Act,the Minister may delegate any and if impacts cannot be avoided, to minimise impacts of their powers to a departmental officer, State Minister or through appropriate consideration in planning processes staff of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and expert input to project design or management’ Commission. Section 21U(1) outlines the penalties for (Victorian State Government,2000). wilful damage, defacement of threat to Aboriginal heritage areas or objects under the Act. Although limited clearing of native vegetation will occur, the Project aims to achieve ‘net gain’ of native vegetation through appropriate offset restoration and revegetation 2.4 Subsequent Approvals plantings,which is consistent with State and regional vegetation management frameworks. Once major approvals are granted, subsequent legislative approvals or requirements may apply as part of the further development of the Project. Subsequent approvals gener- 2.6 Easement Acquisition ally relate to specific construction and operation activities. SEA Gas requires easements over the land traversed by the Subsequent approvals for the installation of the pipeline pipeline to ensure that the company’s assets are adequately also provide a further forum and regulatory setting for the protected. In Victoria, pipeline easements are required to protection of environmental values. It must be noted that be in place prior to the issue of the Pipeline Licence. not all subsequent approvals are mandatory at the project Under the arrangement the property owner retains title to development (or construction) stage, as approvals may be the land. The easement provides rights of access for moni- required as circumstances arise (for example accidental toring and maintenance and prevents certain landuses cultural artefact finds during construction). Such subse- (such as construction of permanent buildings) from occur- quent approvals for each State are outlined in Table 2-3. ring over the pipeline. The acquisition of a 25m wide

1 Net Gain is where over a specified area and period of time, losses to native vegetation and 12 habitat, as measured by a combined quality-quantity measure (habitat-hectare), are reduced, minimised and more than offset by commensurate gains. SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 2: Legislative Framework pipeline easement on each property will commence once owners. In the cases where the negotiation process fails to the alignment has been confirmed. result in an agreeable resolution to both parties, legislation provides a process to compulsorily acquire the easement SEA Gas recognises the rights of individual property rights. The procedure for acquisition and determining owners and aims to establish a partnership for the future. In compensation is established under Section 20 of the South this regard, SEA Gas is confident of being able to agree Australian Land Acquisition Act 1969 and Section 80 of the terms and conditions for the easement with most property Victorian Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986.

Table 2-3 Subsequent Environmental Approvals Activity Legislation Agency Victoria Approval to remove native Granted via Pipeline Permit • Department of Natural Resources vegetation. and Licence and Environment (DNRE) • municipal councils. Approval to undertake works within Granted via Pipeline Permit • DNRE. designated municipal overlays. and Licence • Department of Infrastructure (DOI). • municipal councils. Permit to disturb Victorian Rare Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 • DNRE. or Threatened Species. Consent to destroy Aboriginal relic. Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV). Consent to undertake archaeological Preservation Act 1972 survey. Consent to destroy archaeological relic. Heritage Act 1995 • Heritage Victoria. Approval to construct works,interfere Water Act 1989 • Relevant catchment management with or obstruct the flow of a watercourse. authority. Permit to destroy or dispose of ‘protected, Wildlife Act 1975 • DNRE. notable or endangered’wildlife. Permit to construct during Country Fire Authority Act 1958 • Country Fire Authority. Total Fire Ban. Consultation to dispose of Environment Protection Act 1970 • Environment Protection hydrotest discharge. Authority. South Australia Permission to destroy Aboriginal relic Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 • Department of State Aboriginal Affair Compressor station emissions to comply Petroleum Act 2000 • PIRSA with State regulatory requirements under the Environment Protection Act 1993. Permission to destroy/disturb Heritage Act 1993 • Department for Environment and archaeological relic. Heritage (DEH) Removal of native vegetation. Native Vegetation Act 1991 • DEH National Parks & Wildlife Act 1972 To source water from natural Water Resources Act 1997 • Department for Water Resources waterbodies during horizontal directional drill activities.

13 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

14 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description

3 Project Description

3.1 Project Overview Murray River approximately 25km south-east of Murray Bridge, traverses the western fringe of Murray Bridge and The proposed SEA Gas pipeline will be approximately continues north westerly above Mount Pleasant in the 670km long and 355mm (14 inches) in diameter. It will northern Mount Lofty Ranges. The route continues commence at Port Campbell (Victoria) and terminate at northwest through the Williamstown and South Gawler the Pelican Point Offtake Station on Torrens Island north areas, before turning southwest and travelling across the of Adelaide (South Australia) (see Map 1). Gas will be northern Adelaide Plains west of Elizabeth toward Gepps sourced from the Iona Gas Plant and the proposed Minerva Cross. The pipeline will follow the proposed Port River Gas Plant. The pipeline will be buried to a minimum depth Expressway to Port Adelaide where it will cross the North of 750mm. Construction will occur over a 12-month Arm of the Port Adelaide River onto Torrens Island. The period, commencing in the third quarter 2002, and will pipeline will terminate at Pelican Point Offtake Station involve a workforce of approximately 300. (Map 3). An overview of the project area’s existing environment is provided in Section 5.1. Gas will initially be compressed at the BHPP Minerva Gas Plant, to deliver gas into the pipeline at 15MPa. SEA Gas In some areas the exact alignment of the pipeline is known will construct and operate a compressor station to be and is unlikely to change. However, consistent with tradi- located northeast of Padthaway (South Australia). Nine tional practices, minor amendments to the alignment will mainline valves and five scraper stations will be the other be made in other areas during the subsequent project main above ground features. phases, within a corridor approximately 100m wide. Such amendments will occur up to, and in some instances SEA Gas is pursuing regional markets and expects to during, construction as discussions with landowners and develop lateral pipelines to centres such as Portland, stakeholder groups continue and engineering studies and Casterton and Naracoorte and to tie into the existing local environmental field assessments progress. All amendments transmission and distribution network at Katnook in the will occur within an agreed management and approval south east of South Australia. framework (see Section 5.2).

The pipeline will have a design life of 80 years, and during operation will be controlled from the SEA Gas Control 3.3 Project Schedule Centre in suburban Adelaide. It is proposed that approximately seven field personnel will be required during opera- The general Project schedule is outlined in Figure 3-1. As tions. indicated,Project approval is anticipated in early 2002,with construction expected to commence in 2002. Completion of the pipeline is expected in late 2003 with the delivery of 3.2 Pipeline Route first commissioning gas in October 2003 and commercial operation commencing by January 2004. The pipeline route originates at the Iona Gas Plant at Port Campbell, and connects to the proposed Minerva Gas The Project has been scheduled to meet: Plant just north of Port Campbell. After traversing approx- • the gas supply requirements of the Pelican Point Power imately 20km of farmland, the pipeline will meet up with Station and other electricity generators in the SA market the existing GPU GasNet gas transmission pipeline and • the general gas retail demands of the Adelaide market parallel this for about 40km. The pipeline will then head • the development requirements of the Minerva and Yolla northwest toward Casterton (Map 2). From Casterton, the Gas Fields,and pipeline will continue in a northwesterly direction before • the regional gas supply requirements for projects such as crossing the South Australian-Victorian border east of the SAMAG project at Port Pirie. Naracoorte. The proposed route then travels directly northwest toward Murray Bridge, passing north of In addition, construction will be scheduled to minimise Naracoorte and Padthaway. The pipeline crosses the workforce “down time”and to avoid unnecessary environ-

15 Chapter 3: Project Description SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Figure 3-1: Project Schedule 00 2001 2002 2003 04 Project Element Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Pre-feasibility assessment Alignment selection and assessment Project approval Detailed design Pre-construction planning Construction Commissioning and first gas mental impacts, where practicable. As such, pipeline 3.5 Above Ground Facilities construction typically occurs during summer months to avoid periods of higher rainfall and boggy ground condi- Above ground facilities required at intervals along the tions. Furthermore, at a local scale, some activities will be pipeline route include: scheduled or modified to reduce impacts where the time of • compressor station year is an important factor. Such strategies include: • meter stations • timing watercourse crossings to coincide with periods of • mainline valves low flow • scraper stations • timing construction through important wildlife habitat • cathodic protection systems to avoid key lifecycle stages for some species (eg. • communication / Scada1 System,and breeding periods),and • marker signs. • timing rehabilitation activities to maximise the rate of success. The exact location of some of the ancillary facilities will not be determined until the detailed design stage. The Refer to Part II for discussion of impact mitigation strate- location will be selected to avoid areas of ecological sensi- gies. tivity and to minimise impacts to the community (see Part II). Pipeline construction activities are likely to commence at Port Campbell and progress systematically toward Pelican 3.5.1 Compressor Station Point. Activities requiring a special crew, such as special crossings of rivers, highways and railways are likely to take To maintain the required gas throughput and pressure, place out of this standard sequence. additional pipeline compression will be necessary. As such, it is proposed to construct a compressor station northeast of Typically cross-country pipe construction progresses at Padthaway in South Australia as part of the Project (see rates of 1–4km per day, depending on construction Map 8). A typical compressor station is shown in Plate 3-1. methods and weather conditions. Generally,the standard The compressor site will be accessed off Yallamurray Road construction process, from clear-and-grade to rehabilita- and has been selected to be sufficiently distant from tion, can be expected to occur over a 3 month period, at existing or expected residential development (see Figure 8- any one location. 1). The nearest resident to the proposed compressor station is located some 3.5km from the site.

3.4 Pipeline Design The main infrastructure associated with the compressor station (buildings, pipework and hardstand) will be located The pipeline will be designed in accordance with the on an area of approximately 4ha (200m x 200m) within a Australian Standard AS 2885.1: Pipelines – Gas and Liquid larger buffer area of 12ha. SEA Gas will purchase the free- Petroleum. Table 3-1 summarises the key engineering hold title to the required 12ha. design parameters of the SEA Gas Project. The compressor station will consist of two natural gas turbine driven compressor units housed in a secure metal

1 System Control and Data Acquisition. 16 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description

Table 3-1: Pipeline Design Design Element Details Length 670km Diameter (outside) 355.6mm (14 inch) Wall Thickness 7.84mm (approx) Pipe quality API 5L Grade X70 Factory Coating Fusion Bonded Epoxy Pipeline Content Dry Natural Gas Operational Pressure 15,000 kPag Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure 15,320kPag Hydrotest Pressure 19, 150kPa (125% of operating pressure) Nominal capacity 70 PJ/a Nominal daily quantity 200 TJ/d Standard Operation Easement Width 25m (reduced in sensitive areas to a minimum of 15m) Minimum depth of cover In accordance with AS 2885, typically: • Cross Country Sections – 750mm • Dairy areas – 1200mm (where req.) • Rock areas – 450mm (minimum) • Watercourses – 1200mm • Major rivers – 2000mm • Beneath Roads – 1200mm • Beneath Railway – 2000mm Corrosion Protection External Coating and impressed current cathodic protection Non Destructive Testing 100% radiography of welded joints Buried marker tape Entire length of pipeline. Minimum 300mm above pipe. Scada Pipeline monitoring and line break protection system building. Key design features of the compressor station are this process, SEA Gas must demonstrate that the facility outlined in Table 3-2. complies with the requirements of the South Australian Environment Protection Act and its Regulations regarding air The compression process briefly involves: and noise emissions. • Gas from pipeline enters the compressor. • Gas is compressed to the required transmission pressure. Additional compressor stations may be required in the • The compressed gas increases in temperature as a result future but will be the subject of separate application and of this process and is cooled (via heat exchanger) prior to regulatory approvals at that time. rejection into the pipeline. 3.5.2 Mainline Valves The compressor station will be designed for remote operation and operated from SEA Gas Control Centre in Nine mainline valves will be installed along the pipeline – suburban Adelaide. two in Victoria and seven in South Australia (see Table 3-3). Their principal purpose is to enable sections of the pipeline The access tracks and hardstand area will be constructed of to be isolated in the event of damage or programmed gravel and the foundations for the building and equipment maintenance. Mainline valves typically occupy a fenced will be concrete. The whole site (excluding the buffer) will and gravelled area of 225m2 and are located on the pipeline be enclosed in a security fence. easement. A typical mainline valve is shown in Plate 3-2.

Approval for the compressor station is required under the provisions of the South Australian Petroleum Act. As part of

17 Chapter 3: Project Description SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 3-2: Compressor Station Design Elements Compressor Station Design Element Details Number of compressor units 1-2 Power output 3.5 MW Compressor seals Dry gas Air intake coolers Evaporative Starting system Electrical variable frequency drive Energy Use 0.2GJ/annum Emissions: • NOx 74 tonne/annum • CO 2.6 tonne/annum • Unburnt hydrocarbons 1 tonne/annum Output temperature (estimated) 530°C Emission velocities 14m/sec Exhaust stack number 1-2 Exhaust stack height 12m Vent valve number • Station 1 (combined emergency and blowdown) • Unit 1 per unit Compressed air system application Instrument air Buffer air Pulse air Noise control application Acoustic building cladding Air intake silencers Exhaust silencers Vent silencers

Table 3-3: Proposed Mainline Valve and Scraper Station Locations Approximate Location Valve Number Scraper Station * Minerva Gas Plant MLV1 PL Grassdale MLV2 PR / PL Padthaway MLV3 PR / PL Cooke Plains MLV4 PR / PL Williamstown MLV5 Gawler MLV6 Munno Para MLV7 Bolivar MLV8 Torrens Island MLV9 PR * Note: Scraper stations are indicated as pig launcher sites (PL) and / or pig receiver sites (PR).

3.5.3 Scraper Stations 3.5.4 Meter Station

It is proposed to construct five scraper stations along the Meter stations will be constructed at sites where gas leaves the pipeline. All will be located at mainline valve sites (see main transmission line and is transferred to local gas reticula- Table 3-3). Scraper stations allow the insertion and/or tion systems or individual customers. Meter stations include retrieval of devices (known as “pigs”) to clean the internal pressure reduction facilities and equipment to measure the sections of the pipe or to detect damage or metal loss volume of gas transferred. They generally occupy a fenced within the pipe. area of approximately 50mx50m. At present, meter stations are planned at Gepps Cross and Torrens Island.

18 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description

3.5.5 Cathodic Protection Facilities tion network at Katnook in the southeast of South Australia is also being investigated. An impressed current cathodic protection system will supplement the protective coating to prevent external Any developments of lateral pipelines would require sepa- corrosion of the pipeline. The main feature of the system rate approvals and involve individual environmental impact will be a series of anode beds buried at intervals along the assessments. pipeline and connected to it by electrical cables. The spacing, size and location of anode beds will be finalised in detailed design. 3.7 Construction Activities 3.5.6 Marker Signs The SEA Gas Project will be constructed in accordance with the requirements of AS 2885 and the APIA Code of Pipeline marker signs will be designed and installed in Environmental Practice (1998) (the APIA Code). The accordance with AS 2885. Double-sided markers will be construction activities will follow standard industry prac- installed to indicate the presence of the pipeline to reduce tice, as described in the following sections. Key character- the risk of inadvertent damage by third parties. Marker istics of the construction program are described in Table signs will be installed at: 3-4. Typical construction right-of-way layout is illustrated • both sides of road and railway crossings in Figure 3-2. Environmental management procedures are • both sides of significant watercourse crossings provided in Part II. • all fencelines • all utility crossings 3.7.1 Construction Depot • all bends greater than 30 degrees,and • all above ground facilities. Prior to the commencement of construction activities, the contractor will select appropriate sites to locate the Aerial markers will be installed as close as reasonably prac- construction depots. The sites are typically situated on an tical to 5km intervals. existing industrial area and during the construction period may be relocated as the pipeline construction progresses. The contractor will determine the number and location of 3.6 Lateral Pipelines construction depots required,however it is likely that there will be three (two in South Australia and one in Victoria), SEA Gas is pursuing regional markets and, if economically located approximately 150km apart. The construction viable, intends to develop lateral pipelines to transport gas depot is primarily used for equipment storage, vehicle lay- from the main line to population centres along the down, site office and administration centre, training depot, corridor. Investigations are underway into the potential to and a rendezvous point for the crew each morning prior to supply customers in Warrnambool, Portland, Casterton, commencing works on the easement. Naracoorte, Bordertown and Tailem Bend. The potential to connect to the existing local transmission and distribu-

Table 3-4: Characteristics of the Construction Program Design Element Details Construction right-of-way width. 25m Construction workforce (approx.) 300 Construction spreads 1 to 3 Standard construction hours 0700 – 1900hrs, 7 days/week Construction duration (approx.) 12 months Refuelling Mobile fuel truck and construction depot Length of open trench 1- 10km (minimised in areas of high sensitivity) Normal time between clear-and-grade and restoration Up to 3 months (minimised in areas of high sensitivity)

19 Chapter 3: Project Description SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Equipment stored at the construction depot may include: access tracks will be rehabilitated in accordance with • construction vehicles landowner requirements. • diesel fuel and lubricants • vehicle maintenance equipment 3.7.3 Clear-and-Grade • sand bags • sediment fencing,star droppers and wooden stakes Clear-and-grade activities primarily involve the prepara- • pipe wrapping materials,and tion of a safe construction right-of-way for vehicular • pipe. movement, trenching and other construction activities. The process specifically involves: Typically most construction vehicles and machinery will • clearing vegetation and other obstacles from the right- be secured in the construction depot overnight and during of-way construction cycle breaks. • grading topsoil to the edge of the right-of-way,and • creating a safe working surface (and slope) for construc- No native vegetation will be cleared during the establish- tion. ment of the construction depot, and the site will be restored to pre-existing condition or better at the comple- The right-of-way is normally 25m, but can be reduced in tion of construction works. Waste recycling and disposal, sensitive areas (down to a minimum width of 15m), by spill response and depot maintenance will be carried out in removing the passing lane and decreasing working widths. accordance with procedures outlined in Part II. Vegetation clearing is kept to the minimum practicable and 3.7.2 Access overhanging branches are trimmed rather than removing trees where it is safe to do so. Specialist personnel will flag Equipment and personnel will require regular access to vegetation that is to be avoided. Landholders will have the right-of-way and work sites during construction. Access opportunity to harvest crops and or vegetation (in forestry will generally be via existing roads and tracks as well as the areas) prior to construction. Cleared vegetation will be construction right-of-way. The Project area has an exten- stockpiled separately from topsoil and trench spoil for sive network of existing public roads and farm tracks and as respreading during restoration. such, it is expected that few new access tracks will need to be created. Existing access roads and tracks will be used Topsoil is graded to a depth of approximately 10cm wherever possible and all Project related movements will (depending on terrain and soil type) and moved to the edge be restricted to approved access tracks and the right-of- of the right-of-way (refer to Figure 3-2). This is done to way. protect the topsoil from being mixed with sub-soil. Topsoil is essential for successful restoration. Access planning will include consultation with all relevant landholders and regulatory authorities. New access tracks The right-of-way is required to have minimal side-slope to will avoid environmentally sensitive areas and will be provide a safe work area. As such, in some areas it may be scheduled to minimise disturbance to landholders. All necessary to cut and bench the right-of-way to create a

Figure 3-2: Proposed Construction Right-of-Way Layout

20 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description sufficiently level work area. Excess soil will be appropriately Common pipeline construction methods available for the stockpiled for reinstatement of existing surface contours. crossing of watercourses include: • open cut / flow diversion 3.7.4 Trenching • boring,and • horizontal directional drill. Trenching activities typically use mainline “trenching machines”. In addition, excavators (or back-hoes) will be To minimise the period of construction and subsequent used in difficult terrain such as sloping terrain or rocky areas. environmental disturbance, SEA Gas aims to complete watercourse crossings within the shortest period practi- The trench will be sufficiently deep to provide cover cable. Relevant water authorities (that is, Catchment depths outlined in Table 3-1. Trenching progress will vary Management Authorities and other state agencies respon- between 200m – 4km per day dependant on terrain type, sible for water resources) will be consulted prior to equipment suitability and weather conditions. Trenches construction and during restoration. Appropriate approvals will be left open for the minimum time practicable. This is must be in place prior to construction. The following a balance between the need to have sufficient trench open provides a brief description of construction activities for to allow efficient progress of welding and lowering in crews watercourse crossings. Part II contains further informa- whilst not unduly affecting landowners,stock or wildlife. It tion pertaining to environmental considerations. is expected that between 1 – 5km of trench will be open. Appropriate means to facilitate stock and wildlife Standard Open Cut / Flow Diversion crossing/escape will be installed. The majority of watercourse crossings are expected to be constructed using standard open cut (trenching) construc- Trench spoil shall be placed separately from topsoil on the tion. This technique is most suited to dry or low flow right-of-way for subsequent return during backfill. conditions. If water is present flow diversion techniques may be employed. 3.7.5 Blasting The standard open cut method involves establishing a In rocky terrain where the use of conventional excavation, stable working platform either side of the watercourse and rock hammering or ripping equipment is not feasible, creating a trench using excavators. The trench will not be controlled blasting may be considered as an alternative completed through the banks until immediately prior to method. pipe installation. Tie-in points are located on high ground well away from the banks. Should blasting be required, a Blasting Operation Procedure will be prepared detailing the proposed method Watercourse bed and bank material and trench spoil will be of blasting, including safety,drill patter, charges, explosives, stockpiled separately. Pipe string welding and concrete detonation methods, debris control etc. Blasting activities coating will occur prior to placement in the trench. The are strictly controlled by state legislation and standards and pipe may be concrete-wrapped at watercourse crossings,to are only undertaken by suitably qualified personnel. Prior protect the external coating and to prevent the pipe notice is given to all affected landholders, construction “floating”once in place. crew and other potentially affected parties. Flow diversion is a modification to the standard open cut 3.7.6 Watercourse Crossings method employed where higher water volumes and flows are present (typically up to 1000 litres per second). Several methods can be used to construct watercourse cross- Conditions that may influence the decision to employ flow ings. In addition to pipe laying, temporary vehicle crossings diversion techniques include: may also be constructed to facilitate the movement of • technical constraints limiting the ability to construct a construction vehicles over minor watercourses. While suitable trench preferred methods for major watercourse crossings have • site safety and working conditions,and been determined, methods for most watercourse crossings • potential adverse impacts to water quality (principally as will be determined during the pre-construction phase. a result of increased sediment load), which may affect During this phase engineering specifications,environmental downstream users or ecosystems. procedures and regulatory approvals will be finalised.

21 Chapter 3: Project Description SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

The technique involves damming the watercourse and matting) is used to hold soil in place but remain perme- pumping the flow around work areas, as shown in able to water and plant growth. Figure 3-3. • Vegetation is reinstated. This usually involves seeding initially with sterile grasses (for example millet or rye The key steps for a typical flow diversion crossing are: corn) to facilitate revegetation and stabilisation of water- • A diesel pump is bunded and water is pumped from course banks. Subsequent revegetation of the crossing upstream to downstream, around the construction aims to re-establish indigenous plant species,in consulta- easement. tion with regulatory authorities. • A plastic lined sandbag (or similar) dam wall is placed • Following construction, reinstatement is monitored and downstream and upstream. access is restricted to facilitate rehabilitation. • A second diesel pump is bunded and used to pump potentially turbid water from the trench. This trench Boring water is discharged well away from the watercourse,onto The technique of boring is commonly used to install geofabric (or similar) into a stable vegetated area. pipelines beneath infrastructure such as roads, railways, • Trench spoil removed from the watercourse is placed on buried utilities and in some circumstances for watercourse the easement above the bank in a bunded area. The crossings. It is a low impact technique involving drilling primary aim of trench and backfill activities is to ensure short distances from below ground within an enlarged that bed and bank material is stockpiled separately and is trench area, or bellhole, located inside the construction returned to the trench in the order and depth equivalent easement. Refer Figure 3-4. to original conditions. • Welded pipe is layed in the trench and spoil material is The feasibility of using a bore is limited by site conditions, returned to the trench. In addition, rock protection over including depth and width of watercourse crossing, the trenchline is normally installed within the stream bed geology,landform and soil type. to prevent potential scouring during flood conditions. • Banks are reinstated as near as practicable to their orig- Spoil removed from the bellhole is stockpiled on the ease- inal profile. Where required, geofabric (for example jute ment above the watercourse bank in a bunded area.

Figure 3-3: Typical Flow Diversion (Plan view)

Figure 3-4: Typical Watercourse Boring Operation (Profile view)

22 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) raised timber “skids” to protect the pipe coating from The feasibility of using horizontal directional drilling is damage. Pipe ends are normally capped to prevent wildlife strongly limited by site conditions such as soil stability, and foreign material entering the pipe prior to welding. slope, access, available workspace and the nature of subsurface rock. 3.7.8 Welding and Joint Coating

The installation of the pipeline by HDD involves drilling a Several stages of welding are applied to ensure join welds are hole at a shallow angle beneath the surface through which completed to the full thickness of the pipe. Specialised the pipe is threaded (refer to Figure 3-5). Drilling is construction crews undertake the welding phase of the conducted by a specially designed drill rig, operated by a project. Pipes will typically be welded in 500m lengths and specialist contractor. A variety of associated equipment and non-destructive testing is conducted on each weld to check infrastructure is required. A typical layout is shown in its integrity. Each welded joint will then be coated to Figure 3-6. protect against corrosion. To further ensure the integrity of the pipeline,the pipe coating is inspected for abrasions,holes Although directional drilling may reduce above ground and minor defects prior to lowering into the trench. impacts, the technique introduces additional environmental considerations such as drill site sediment control, 3.7.9 Padding and Shading waste management, noise and increased duration of construction and workforce numbers. To address these In rocky areas it may be necessary to place a layer of rock issues, site specific management procedures will be free material in the base of the trench. This material may be prepared prior to drilling. sifted trench spoil (generated by a padding machine) or imported sand. Sand will be sourced from existing autho- 3.7.7 Stringing rised borrow pits.

The term “stringing” is used to describe the delivery of Shading is similar to padding material but is added after the pipe to the construction area. Transported pipe is normally pipe has been lowered into the trench and protects the sides strung adjacent to the trench (pipe preparation area) on and top of the pipe from abrasion.

Figure 3-5: Typical Profile of HDD

1. HDD Rig 5. Mud Mixing Tank 9. Power Generators 13. Drill Entry Point 2. HDD Control Unit 6. Cuttings Separation Tank 10. Equipment Storage 14. Cuttings (returns) 3. Drill Pipe 7. Mud Pump 11. Site Offices settlement pit 4. Water Pump 8. Mud Storage 12. Site Offices Figure 3-6: Plan View showing typical HDD Layout

23 Chapter 3: Project Description SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

3.7.10 Lowering In and Backfill As soon as practical after pipe laying and backfill, the easement will be re-instated and restored. Often,rehabilitation Pipe lengths are lowered into the excavated trench using is tailored to site-specific conditions. side-boom tractors. Prior to pipelaying it may be necessary to de-water the trench where rain or groundwater has Generally, the landscape will be rehabilitated to pre- accumulated. Interconnecting sections of pipe are subse- existing contours and natural drainage lines restored and quently welded as described above (Section 3.7.8). protected (if required). To promote vegetation regrowth and protect against the loss of topsoil, the right-of-way Impermeable trench blocks (otherwise known as trench or surface will be lightly scarified prior to respreading of sack breakers) may be installed prior to backfilling of the topsoil. Restoration activities will be undertaken in trench to control water movement along the backfilled consultation with relevant State authorities and land- trench. Trench breakers are commonly installed in a holders. number of environmental conditions, such as adjacent to watercourses, on steep slopes or where drainage patterns Sedimentation and erosion controls are commonly change. constructed to protect the restored easement from excessive surface run-off and/or prevent ponding of water on Trench spoil is subsequently returned to the trench in the the easement. appropriate order (to avoid soil inversion) and compacted. 3.7.13 Waste Management 3.7.11 Testing Relatively small amounts of domestic and industrial wastes Pipeline integrity must be verified using hydrostatic testing will be generated during construction. Prior to the in accordance with AS 2885. Sections of the pipeline will commencement of any waste producing activities, specific be capped with test manifolds, filled with water and pres- waste management strategies will be developed for each surised up to 125% of operating pressure for a minimum of waste stream based on the principles of “Reduce, Reuse, two hours. A 24-hour leak test will then follow. Corrosion Recycle”and appropriate disposal. Opportunities for recy- inhibiting chemicals may be added to the hydrotest water. cling materials will be investigated by the contractor, and Chemicals will be used that have the potential to cause the implemented where practicable. These management least environmental harm whilst adequately protecting strategies are to be developed by the contractor and against corrosion. approved by SEA Gas project management.

Hydrotesting procedures, including water sourcing and Contractors will place a high emphasis on housekeeping disposal,will be determined during the detailed design and and all work areas will be maintained in a neat and orderly construction. Water will be sourced from a mains supply or manner. All hazardous wastes will be appropriately stored an approved water source such as a dam or watercourse. in accordance with legislative requirements and Australian Approvals will be obtained and water purchased as required Standards. by the relevant authority or owner of the water. On completion of each section of pipeline all waste mate- If corrosion inhibiting chemicals are used, hydrotest water rial will be removed from the worksite. will not be discharged to natural water bodies. The quality of hydrotest water will be determined prior to its disposal, 3.7.14 Construction Work Force and if appropriate the discarded water will be supplied for beneficial use in consultation with the landowner. A maximum workforce of 300 personnel is anticipated throughout the construction phase of the SEA Gas Project. 3.7.12 Cleanup and Restoration Local contractors and service companies will be involved with the construction phase of the pipeline and associated Pipeline construction generates very little waste, and usually facilities where possible. However, some aspects of the includes pipe offcuts, rope spacers and timber skids, which construction process (for example welding, specialist cross- are generally recycled. All waste materials will be removed ings and testing) will require specialist pipeline/technical from the work area and disposed of appropriately. expertise,which may be unavailable in some local areas.

24 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 3: Project Description

The construction workforce will be accommodated in a will be conducted in accordance with the SEO and variety of forms for the duration of the Project. Preference Operations Environmental Management Plan. Dig-ups will be given to using local commercial accommodation involve the excavation of material from around the rather than establishing construction camps. However, this pipeline (typically referred to as a bellhole), to allow suffi- will be dependent on the availability and capacity of such cient room for operations technicians to undertake any facilities at the time of construction, particularly in rural remedial works that may be required. The excavation of townships or peak holiday periods. material will be undertaken in accordance with management conditions outlined in Section 3.7 for construction If publicly available accommodation is limited, campsites (that is, topsoil will be stockpiled separately from trench will need to be established. These will be selected in spoil, and the site will be restored as soon as practical consultation with relevant landholders and municipalities, following completion of maintenance works). and will avoid areas of ecological sensitivity. However, it is most likely that if campsites are required,they will be estab- Prior to commencing extensive work, or where numerous lished in caravan parks or similar facilities. Construction sites are involved, operations personnel will consult with and management of camps will be in accordance with regulatory authorities as appropriate. All maintenance protocols (with particular reference to site selection, waste work shall be restricted to the SEA Gas easement and meet management and reinstatement) detailed in the environmental objectives outlined in the SEO. Construction Environment Management Plan (see Section 5.2). 3.8.3 Consultation

During operations, designated personnel will maintain 3.8 Operation regular contact with all landowners and occupiers whose properties the pipeline traverses, to ensure both parties are Operation of the SEA Gas Project will be in accordance appropriately aware of all easement management issues. with approval documentation (EER/EIR and Statement Stakeholder correspondence will be documented on the of Environmental Objectives), APIA Code of Project Communication Register to ensure that issues Environmental Practice and AS 2885. raised during operations are appropriately addressed.

3.8.1 Inspection and Monitoring 3.9 Decommissioning Pipeline operating conditions (that is, gas flow and pressure) will be monitored from the SEA Gas Control Centre The planned life of the pipeline is 80 years. In the event in suburban Adelaide. that the utility is no longer required, the pipeline will be decommissioned in accordance with the legislative Inspection of the pipeline easement will primarily be requirements of the day. The two most likely options are: conducted via regular aerial inspection. Such inspections will identify any areas of erosion, weed infestation, trench • Moth-balling – which involves depressurising the subsidence or third party activity on the easement. pipeline, capping and filling with an inert gas such as nitrogen. All above ground structures will be removed, 3.8.2 Maintenance with the exception of marker posts that are required to remain to identify the pipe location. The cathodic Access to the easement will be necessary to follow-up protection would be maintained to prevent the pipe issues identified from aerial inspections. Rectification corroding. strategies will be developed and implemented as appro- • Abandonment – which involves purging the pipe of priate. Low level maintenance for erosion, subsidence and natural gas, disconnecting it from the manifolds and weeds is likely to be necessary,particularly during the first removing all above ground facilities. The pipe would 12 months following construction. then be left to corrode in-situ.

More significant maintenance activities, such as dig-ups to Removing the pipe from the ground is unlikely to be a address coating defects, are less likely to be required. commercially or environmentally viable option. However, all maintenance activities that may be required

25 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

26 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 4: Project Alternatives

4 Project Alternatives

There are a range of potential alternatives to the SEA Gas • the new supplies of LPG and refinery feedstock will not Project and choice between the various options occurs at a be provided for Victorian industry and commerce number of levels. For example there are choices to be made between: • the direct benefits to the State economies from construc- • developing the Project or not developing the Project tion expenditure and the substantial longer-term bene- • gas as the energy source and other sources of energy fits from Project operation will be lost • the basin from which the gas will be sourced • pipeline corridors from the preferred gas basin to the • Victoria will not receive the estimated extra $107 market,and million per annum in interstate exports1 • project design, construction techniques and environmental impact mitigation measures. • the injection of up to $42 million into the regional economies of the Project area will not occur,and

4.1 The “No Project”Alternative • an opportunity to contribute to Australia’s ability to meet its Greenhouse gas commitments will have been lost. The SEA Gas Project has been proposed in direct response to the South Australian Government’s call for a developer to deliver natural gas to meet the State’s current and future 4.2 Alternative Energy Options demands. Section 1.1 broadly outlined the need for the Project and the anticipated benefits. If the Project was not The SEA Gas Project provides for the replacement of to proceed the government’s objectives will not be met and existing and future gas supplies into South Australia princi- the expected economic benefits to the States of Victoria pally for power generation. The only viable alternative to and South Australia and to the regional communities will meet the known demands is additional interconnection not be achieved. and generation in Victoria and New South Wales. Two power interconnection projects are currently proposed: Without the SEA Gas Project: • the Murraylink Project, which will contribute approximately 200MW per annum from late 2001,and • the increasing demand for energy, particularly for gas • the Transgrid Project, which will contribute approxi- generated electricity is less likely to be met mately 250MW per annum from 2003.

• energy shortages are likely to continue in South Australia Whilst assisting South Australia meet its short-term power deficit, these projects do not meet the ongoing require- • new opportunities for gas powered developments, such ments for gas fired power generation in the short-term or as SAMAG,are less likely to eventuate the increasing requirements in the long-term.

• South Australia and Victoria’s current gas supply security As such,a significant increase in the supply of natural gas to problems are unlikely to be alleviated South Australia’s gas powered electricity generation industry is considered the only option available in the short • a competitive gas supply market is unlikely to operate in to medium term to address the State’s power requirements. South Australia and gas customers are unlikely to experience gas price reductions 4.3 Alternative Gas Supply Options • the Minerva and Yolla gas fields are unlikely to be developed in the short term Since 1969,South Australia has sourced its natural gas from the Cooper Basin in northeast South Australia and south- • new markets for Otway Basin Gas discoveries are west Queensland2. Proven gas reserves in this province are unlikely to eventuate in the short term expected to be substantially depleted by 2010, pending

1 Based on 1999 ex-plant prices at 45PJ per annum. Note: SEA Gas expects capacity may 27 be up to 70 PJ per annum. 2 Regional markets in the south-east of the State are serviced from the Katnook and associated fields located in the Penola area. Chapter 4: Project Alternatives SEA Gas Project EER/EIR significant new discoveries. The pipeline system delivering alternatives was not considered necessary. SEA Gas briefly gas from the Cooper Basin has undergone several upgrades considered the option of following the existing gas pipeline and operates at full capacity at times of peak demand. As network to Portland, but discarded this alternative early as such,the South Australian Government has sought to facil- the deviation was over 60km from the direct route between itate the development of a new pipeline from a basin other Port Campbell and Adelaide, adding over $20M to Project than the Cooper. costs. Land use and terrain characteristics were comparable and as such the deviation offered no environmental benefits. Two such options appear viable under current economic SEA Gas considered that regional markets will be most cost climate: effectively served via lateral pipelines off the main pipeline. • a pipeline from the Otway and Bass Basins off the coast of western Victoria,and In the South Australian section, an alternative route was • a pipeline from the Timor Sea, off the coast of the considered between Cooke Plains and the Murray River, Northern Territory. heading northwest from Cooke Plains, and crossing the river northeast of Murray Bridge. This alternative route In facilitating the process, the government specifically passes through a quarantine area for Branched Broomrape, promoted a pipeline from Victoria. SEA Gas are pursuing an agricultural weed of serious concern (see Section this option as it is considered to be the most commercially 11.2.2). The preferred route is similar in length and avoids viable and technically feasible option. A pipeline from the the Broomrape quarantine area, crossing the Murray River Timor Sea is being investigated by at least two different south of Tailem Bend. It was selected following consulta- proponents. This involves a 500km subsea pipeline coming tion with PIRSA and landholders in the region, because it ashore at Darwin and then an transcontinental pipeline minimises the risk of spread of Branched Broomrape, and from Darwin to Adelaide of some 2200km. reduces the logistical problems (such as vehicle and machinery washdown and inspection) associated with However, SEA gas does not consider this as a choice construction through this quarantine area. between these options and would welcome Timor Sea gas entering the market. Three corridor options were considered feasible between Murray Bridge and Pelican Point.

4.4 Corridor Alternatives Corridor Option 1 (Preferred) The corridor continues north westerly from Murray During the pre-feasibility phase of the Project, a range of Bridge north of Mount Pleasant in the northern Mount corridor options for the transmission pipeline were consid- Lofty Ranges. The corridor travels northwest through the ered. The corridor selection process is described in Section Williamstown and South Gawler areas, before turning 5.2.2. The results of the assessment identified a preferred southwest across the northern Adelaide Plains west of 20km wide corridor between Port Campbell and Murray Elizabeth toward Gepps Cross. The corridor picks up the Bridge. In the Victorian section, areas to the north of the proposed Port River Expressway to Port Adelaide where it proposed corridor involve extensive areas of steep and will cross the North Arm of the Port Adelaide River onto rocky terrain rather than the (generally) gently undulating Torrens Island terminating at the Pelican Point Offtake terrain of the proposed alignment. These areas were Station. considered to present unreasonable additional constuction constraints and resultant environmental impact and were Corridor Option 2 not considered further. The corridor proceeds directly north from Murray Bridge and passes west of Cambrai and Sedan before heading west- Areas to the south of the proposed aligment involve exten- ward toward Angaston. The route passes just south of sive and unavoidable areas of forest or park (see Map 2). Angaston, Tanunda and Wasleys before heading south Impacts to ecological values were considered unreasonable following the Moomba to Adelaide Pipeline easement. when compared to low level of impact likely on the The corridor rejoins Corridor 1 at Gepps Cross. proposed alignment. Corridor Option 3 Due to the obvious difference in the scale of potential Corridor 3 heads northwest of Murray Bridge towards constraints and/or impacts a detailed comparison of these Birdwood. From Birdwood the corridor travels approxi-

28 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 4: Project Alternatives mately due west through the Mount Lofty Ranges before greater level of environmental impact. traversing the Adelaide plains just south of Elizabeth and Salisbury along the Little Para River valley. The corridor Option 1 presented fewer issues in regard to watercourse then parallels the Moomba to Adelaide Pipeline easement crossings, impacts to viticulture and horticulture and to Gepps Cross, from where it proceeds to the Pelican involved fewer landowners and less infrastructure. Also, Point Offtake Station in common with Corridors 1 and 2. being nearly 50km shorter involved less overall land disturbance. Corridor comparison The approximate length of each corridor option from the On balance, Option 1 was considered the preferred Murray River to the Pelican Point Offtake is: corridor and is the basis for the more detailed assessment • Option 1:128km and pipeline permit/licence applications. • Option 2:176km • Option 3:105km 4.5 Design and Construction During the pre-feasibility phase of the Project the key Alternatives environmental sensitivities of each corridor were identified using a combination of desktop research and field recon- The basic design concepts for a high pressure natural gas naissance. Each corridor was assessed against a range of pipeline are reasonably fixed, and few alternatives exist that environmental criteria and assigned a low,medium or high would lead to a different level of environmental impact. At sensitivity ranking. (A high ranking indicates that the the construction phase however, numerous alternatives corridor is more sensitive in regard to this criterion and exist that may affect the environmental outcome. For therefore less preferred for pipeline development). A example, whether a watercourse is crossed by conventional summary of the findings is presented in Table 4-1. open cut methods or is directionally drilled will determine the extent of environmental impact at the local level. Both options 1 and 2 were considered feasible with the Depending on the local conditions either may be preferred application of appropriate mitigation measures. Option 3 on environmental grounds. Management and mitigation presented significant environmental, geotechnical and measures for potential impacts of the Project are presented landuse constraints that even with the application of site in Chapters 6 to 11. Where obvious alternatives exist,these specific management measures were expected to result in a are discussed. Furthermore, alternative construction

Table 4-1: Environmental Sensitivity Assessment of Alternative Route Options Environmental Criteria Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Soil stability ••• Topography • • • Watercourse crossings • •• Flora & fauna • • • Pest & weed management ••• Cultural heritage ••• Horticulture & viticulture • • • Forestry • •• Recreation ••• Landowners • •• Third party infrastructure • •• Public Amenity • • •

Low Medium High Relative sensitivity rating • • •

29 Chapter 4: Project Alternatives SEA Gas Project EER/EIR methods will be outlined in the Construction Environmental Management Plan to be developed during the detailed design phase. The criteria to be used to choose between alternatives and the control mechanisms (including the need to consult or seek approval from external stakeholders) will also be detailed. This process is broadly outlined in Section 5.2.

30 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Part II – Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation

The introductory chapter (Chapter 5 – “Overview”) outlines the environmental and management context for the SEA Gas Project. Proceeding chapters (6-11) focus on specific environmental issues: • Soil and Terrain • Hydrology • Emissions • Ecology • Cultural Heritage,and • Socio-Economic Issues.

Discussion within each of these issue-specific chapters follows a consistent framework: • description of the existing environment • identification of potential impacts,and • recommended measures for impact mitigation.

In each case,specific environmental goals and objectives are outlined. Each goal has been assigned a number to allow cross-referencing in the South Australian Statement of Environmental Objectives (see Section 2.2).

31 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

32 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview

5 Overview

This chapter forms the basis for discussion of specific envi- Coastal Southwestern Victoria ronmental issues in subsequent chapters, by providing an The Coastal Southwestern Victoria bioregion extends overview of: from Port Campbell to the Hopkins River at Allansford. • the Project area, including bioregions and climatic The bioregion is characterised by gently undulating plains conditions,and formed on flat-lying uplifted Cenozoic2 marine sediments • the strategic approach to managing environmental issues sloping gently to the east. Significant watercourses adopted by the SEA Gas Project. traversed by the pipeline corridor include the Curdies and Hopkins rivers. Ill-defined drainage, swampy tracts and small boggy basins are common. The land is largely cleared 5.1 The Project Area to pasture and supports sheep,cattle and dairying. 5.1.1 Bioregions Volcanic Plains The Volcanic Plains bioregion extends from Allansford to The SEA Gas Project traverses a variety of landscape types. Grassdale, incorporating Willatook and Macarthur. Broad To assist in describing the character of the existing environ- undulating plains, interrupted in places by low rounded ment, various researchers, planners and management hills and scattered volcanic cones dominate the region. authorities have divided all or part of Australia into units Steep sided but shallow valleys occupied by swampy water- with common characteristics1. Generally, the resultant courses, and patches of broken country where younger units reflect the purpose for which they were created. lavas outcrop in the characteristic stony rises are also typical Similarly,SEA Gas has taken the approach of dividing the of the region. Project area into bioregions (or landsystems) based on broad land characteristics relevant to the Project. As a Major watercourses traversed by the corridor include the result, eight bioregions have been identified with similar Merri, Moyne, Eumeralla and Crawford rivers. The geological,topographical,biological and / or landuse char- northern portion of the Condah Swamp complex is also acteristics. within the corridor. Other standing water features within the region include volcanic lakes,such as Lake Cartcarrong The bioregions have been used as a basis for discussing the and Lake Wangoom,and numerous ephemeral wetlands. environmental issues associated with the Project in each of the proceeding chapters in Part II. The bioregions are listed The plains were previously dominated by open grasslands in Table 5-1 and illustrated in Figure 5-1. The following and sedgelands with a mosaic of woodland, grassland, discussion broadly describes the characteristics of the SEA swamps and small patches of forest (Willis, 1964). The Gas Project bioregions. region has been predominantly cleared and developed for pasture.

Table 5-1: SEA Gas Project Bioregions No. Bioregion Extent 1 Coastal Southwestern Victoria Port Campbell – Allansford 2 Volcanic Plains Allansford – Grassdale 3 Dundas Tablelands Grassdale – Casterton 4 Wimmera Plains Casterton – Naracoorte 5 Southern Mallee Naracoorte – Cooke Plains 6 Murraylands Cooke Plains – Palmer 7 Mount Lofty Ranges Palmer – Gawler 8 Northern Adelaide Plains Gawler – Torrens Island

1 For example,the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) for use in 33 planning the National Reserves System (Thackway & Creswell eds,1995). 2 The Cenozoic Era extends from 66 million years ago to the present day. Chapter 5: Overview SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Figure 5-1: SEA Gas Project Bioregions

Dundas Tablelands covered sand plain in the north. Substantial swampy The bioregion extends from Grassdale to Casterton,incor- depressions, such as Benoch and Groker swamps, and porating the regional centre of Merino. Landscapes within smaller depressions and sinkholes are common throughout. the Dundas Tablelands are developed on soft, easily eroded Several intermittent streams also traverse the plain and Lower Cretaceous3 sediments and include small remnant these include Mosquito,Yelloch and Naracoorte creeks. tableland sections standing above deep, broad valleys. Major watercourses include Merino and Deep creeks and The land is largely cleared to open parkland and pastures the southern section of the Wannon River. The region has dominate. Remnant forest and woodland are occasionally mostly been cleared of native vegetation and is predomi- preserved around the lakes, swamps and creeklines and in nantly used for sheep and cattle grazing. Forest Reserves south of Dergholm.

Wimmera Plains Southern Mallee The Wimmera Plains bioregion traverses a large tract from The corridor traverses the Southern Mallee immediately Casterton to Naracoorte. The eastern section of the north of Naracoorte to approximately Cooke Plains, south Wimmera Plains comprises a relatively flat surface devel- of Tailem Bend. The Southern Mallee contrasts markedly oped on Tertiary4 limestones and laterised Pliocene5 sands to other bioregions, and is characterised by flat, featureless and capped by recent siliceous sands and swamp deposits. landscape of impermeable soils derived from marl, clay and Watercourses include Glenelg River and upper reaches of silt. These areas are subject to seasonal flooding with lakes, the Wannon River and their tributaries, which include Salt swamps and poorly drained soils common. Morambro and Red Cap creeks. Creek represents the only significant watercourse and some artificial drainage has also been constructed. The land has Major surface drainage through the Dergholm region been extensively cleared and the plains are generally devoid includes Mosquito and Salt creeks. Native vegetation of remnant vegetation apart from roadside mallee remnants communities are likely to have been dominated by open and small stands of tea tree around the more swampy areas. woodlands of River Red Gum over the heavier clay soils of Pastoral and agricultural land-uses dominate. interdune corridors and along major stream courses, lakes and swamps. Murraylands The corridor traverses this bioregion between Cooke The western extension of the Wimmera Plains is Plains and Palmer. Near the Murray River, the plain comprised of a flat dune-free plain in the south,and a dune becomes increasingly sandy with low dunes and frequent

3 The Cretaceous period extended from 66 to 144 million years ago. 34 4 The Tertiary period extended from 2 to 66 million years ago. 5 The Pliocene Epoch extended from 2 to 5 million years ago. SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview calcrete outcrops. The floodplain is under intensive Southwestern Victoria/Volcanic Plains/Dundas dairying and is highly modified. However, a variety of Tablelands fluvial forms can still be recognised. The dominant The entire southwest region of Victoria is characterised by remnant vegetation is mallee woodlands with broombush a Mediterranean type climate, of hot, dry summers and or heath understorey. Remnant stands are commonly cool, wet winters. Mean daily minimum – maximum restricted to dune ridges. Grazing or cereal cultivation are temperatures are approximately 4°C – 13°C in July and the principal land-uses. 12°C – 28°C in the hottest months of January and February (Bureau of Meteorology,2001). Average annual Mount Lofty Ranges rainfall across the region varies from 500-910 mm per year, The Mount Lofty bioregion extends from Palmer to predominantly occurring throughout May to September. Gawler, incorporating the Mount Pleasant, Mount Crawford, Williamstown and Barossa areas. Landscapes Wimmera Plains/Southern Mallee vary from undulating plains to steep dissected marginal These regions experience cool,wet winters and long,mild, hills, gullies and gorges, escarpments and strike ridges. dry summers. Mean daily minimum – maximum tempera- Marginal hills overlook broad alluvial footslopes. tures are 4°C – 14°C in July and 13°C – 29°C in January, with extreme recorded temperatures of –4°C and 46°C. Intermittent streams, such as Milendella Creek, are domi- The hottest months are between January and March, and nant features, while waterholes and soakages are common. coolest between May and September (Bureau of The upper catchment of the South Para River is located Meteorology,2001). within this bioregion. However, the watercourse crossing occurs immediately south of Gawler, in the Northern Rainfall decreases northwards away from the coast. For Adelaide Plains bioregion. The corridor skirts the example, annual rainfall is 850mm near Mount Burr, southern margin of the Barossa Valley. 578mm at Naracoorte and 450mm near Bordertown. May to October are the wettest months with January to March The bioregion contains larger areas of remnant vegetation the driest (Croft et al.,1999). on private properties and conservation parks. However,the corridor traverses areas that have been extensively cleared Wind rose data for southeast South Australia indicate that leaving a landscape of open woodland and isolated trees. northerly winds most frequently occur on summer after- The principal landuses in the region are grazing, forestry, noons, with winter winds predominately from the south viticulture,mining and conservation. and east. Spring afternoon winds are mainly from the east to northeast (Bureau of Meteorology,2001). Northern Adelaide Plains The corridor traverses the Northern Adelaide Plains Murraylands between Gawler and Torrens Island. The region incorpo- The Murraylands are characterised by cool, wet winters rates the northern and northwestern suburbs of Adelaide. and dry,hot summers. Temperatures can range from –5°C The alluvial slopes bounding the western edge of the to 46°C, and mean daily minimum – maximum tempera- Mount Lofty Ranges adjoin the coastal plain that extends tures are 5°C – 16°C in July and 14°C – 30°C in January. to a flat, poorly drained landscape. The plains have been From November to March, mean maximum temperatures almost completely cleared of native vegetation to allow exceed 25°C over the region. The coolest months occur agricultural and more recently residential and industrial from May to September (Murray Plains Soil Conservation landuses. The coastline originally was bounded by a belt of Board,1995;Bureau of Meteorology,2001). coastal ephemeral wetlands (or outwash swamps). These have largely been reclaimed through drainage and develop- Rainfall across the Murraylands is lower, with annual ment. Areas of mangrove remain in the coastal margins. means of 376mm at Tailem Bend, and 347mm at Murray Bridge. The highest rainfall occurs between May to 5.1.2 Regional Climate October (Bureau of Meteorology,2001). Rainfall can be unreliable and drought conditions are common. Climate is an important consideration when scheduling and managing pipeline construction. The broad climatic April to July is generally calm, when winds have a conditions of each of the bioregions is described below. northerly or westerly component. In the south of the region, wind may increase to moderate speeds during the

35 Chapter 5: Overview SEA Gas Project EER/EIR day. From July, strong southwesterly to northwesterly • operation,and winds are common, changing to hot northerly winds from • decommissioning. September to October. Light to moderate southeast to westerly winds occur from October to March (Murray During each phase, an increasing level of detail is acquired Plains Soil Conservation Board,1995). Wind speeds gener- with the aim of achieving the overall Project objectives (see ally range between 6.5 to 13.5 km/hr throughout the year Section 3.1),including minimising environmental impacts. and are strongest in spring (Bureau of Meteorology,2001). Therefore, it is important to recognise that the pipeline alignment will continue to be refined during subsequent Mount Lofty Ranges/Northern Adelaide Plains Project phases. The key to the success of this process is The bioregions share a Mediterranean type climate with sufficiently defining the project prior to approval to confi- long, hot summers and cool winters, with the Northern dently predict impacts and to ensure that any changes are Adelaide Plains experiencing warmer conditions than the minor and occur within an agreed management frame- Mount Lofty Ranges. Average daily minimum – maximum work. SEA Gas believes that the framework outlined temperatures in the Mount Lofty Ranges are 3°C – 12°C in below addresses these needs. July and 11°C – 28°C in January, with extreme recorded temperatures of –7°C and 43°C. The Northern Adelaide In regard to the environmental management aspects, Plains mean daily minimum – maximum temperatures are project refinement over time principally affects: 6°C – 15°C in July and 16°C – 30°C in January, with • the pipeline corridor (and the alignment within it) extreme temperatures of –2°C and 46°C. • the pipeline design • construction techniques,and The Mount Lofty Ranges is a high rainfall area dominated • the impact mitigation procedures. by winter seasonal rainfall. Annual rainfall can range from 340mm to 1500mm (Brown, 2001). Specifically, Mount The process of continual review,assessment and refinement Crawford receives an annual average rainfall of 756mm is iterative and occurs within an agreed framework. (Bureau of Meteorology, 2001). The Northern Adelaide Underpinning this approach are the principles that any Plains receives substantially less rainfall, on average ranging refinement: between 400mm and 500mm per annum (Northern Hills • must improve the Project’s performance against its stated Soil Conservation Board,1996). objectives, including the need to minimise environmental impacts,and Wind roses indicate that during the summer months,after- • is subject to a range of “checks and balances”that ensure noon winds are predominantly from the north and east, that the Project meets both its legislative requirements decreasing in intensity through autumn when they change and the reasonable expectations of the community. to predominantly southeasterly winds. Afternoon spring wind roses indicate northeasterly winds are dominant. As the Project proceeds through the various development Wind speeds are strongest in the spring to summer months phases,these refinements become progressively smaller. (Bureau of Meteorology,2001). This section outlines the broad framework for project refinement and describes the processes to be applied to 5.2 SEA Gas Environmental mitigate environmental impact. Management Strategy 5.2.2 Management Framework 5.2.1 Introduction The principal environmental management objective for Traditionally,pipeline projects develop through a sequence the SEA Gas Project is to minimise and where practi- of seven phases: cable avoid significant environmental impacts, by: • pre-feasibility • ensuring that adverse effects on the environment are • assessment appropriately managed to reduce environmental damage • approval • eliminating as far as reasonably practicable the risk of • detailed design significant long term environmental damage,and • construction • ensuring that land adversely affected is appropriately rehabilitated.

36 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview

The most important strategy for achieving this objective is • provided opportunities for future connection to gas the selection of the most appropriate alignment. Once this reservoirs or markets. has been achieved, the following strategies will be adopted This process resulted in the definition of a 20 kilometre (in order of priority): wide corridor around a preliminary alignment. This • modify the construction process became the basis for further studies to refine the alignment. • develop mitigation procedures,and • develop rehabilitation procedures or off-set strategies. Assessment Phase Over the three-month period May – July 2001, Project The processes by which these strategies are developed and landholder liaison officers, engineers, surveyors and refined are iterative. For example, the pipeline will be specialist consultants conducted an intensive field program. located in a corridor generally considered to be 100m Central to this process were initial discussions with 600 wide. In some areas the exact alignment is known at landowners whose properties are to be traversed by the present and is unlikely to change. However, refinements pipeline. In addition to landowner consultation, discus- are likely to be made in other areas within the corridor sions were held with regulatory agencies,land management during subsequent Project phases. Such refinements may authorities, local government, community and special occur up to, and in some instances during, construction as interest groups (see Chapter 12). These activities were part discussions with landowners and stakeholder groups of an ongoing process where alternative alignment options continue and engineering and environmental field studies and site-specific issues were identified, considered, provide greater site-specific detail. discussed, assessed and decided on. As a result, numerous refinements were made to the preliminary alignment, the The sequence of events and the key documentation and aim of which was to find a technically feasible and environ- approvals built into this process are summarised in Table mentally acceptable alignment. Key considerations in this 5-2. regard were the need to minimise impacts to: • third party property and infrastructure As a case study,the following outlines the manner in which • landuse the pipeline alignment has been selected and will continue • remnant vegetation to be refined. • sensitive ecological communities • sites of cultural heritage significance,and Pre-feasibility Phase • public safety. In December 2000, the SEA Gas Joint Venture partners commissioned a team of engineering, land management Concurrently,due consideration was given to the presence and environmental personnel to conduct a pre-feasibility of: assessment. The aim of the assessment was to select a • difficult terrain,particularly side slope preferred pipeline corridor between Port Campbell and • rock Adelaide that met the partner’s technical,commercial and • dispersive or erodible soils environmental objectives. A preliminary pipeline corridor • high water table areas,and was determined using aerial photography, mapping, field • difficult watercourse crossings. inspection and aerial reconnaissance. The aim was to identify a corridor that met the following criteria: The environmental studies that form the basis of this • was reasonably direct, as a shorter route may offer EER/EIR were part of this iterative process. This process economic,environmental,social and logistical benefits resulted in the selection of a preliminary alignment within • avoided major terrain constraints, as the presence of a 100m wide corridor. unduly steep terrain, extensive rock areas and difficult river crossings increase technical risks, construction costs Approval Phase and may influence the scale of potential environmental Comments from landowners,government and other stake- impact holders may contribute to minor refinements of the • avoided major areas set aside for conservation such as pipeline route and environmental objectives. national parks and conservation reserves and world, national or state heritage areas Detailed Design Phase • utilised existing easements, as these may reduce potential Following Project approval, planning and design activities impacts to environmentally sensitive areas,and would continue over an eight month period leading up to

37 Table 5-2: The Phases of Pipeline Development EER/EIR SEAGasProject Overview Chapter 5: Schedule Documentation Approvals Project Phase (Start Date) Key Activities Outcomes Internal External SA Vic Pre-feasibility Dec 2000 – Desk-top review – maps, aerial photos Preliminary Assessment Feb 2001 Research broad sensitivities and constraints – Corridor (20km) report available literature Understanding of Preliminary Field reconnaissance – ground and aerial scale and likely mapping inspections acceptability of (1:250,000) Consultation – high level discussions with environmental primary regulatory agencies impact Assessment Mar 2001 – Field reconnaissance – of preliminary alignment Preliminary Interim Preliminary Preliminary Level of Sept 2001 Discussions with potentially affected landowners alignment within assessments Survey Survey assessment / managers a 100m corridor Mitigation Licence Licence determination Consultation with regulatory agencies and land Proposed options Application Significance Authority to management authorities alignment (with assessment advertise Consultation with non-government Broad EIR/SEO) Authority to organisations and wider community management and Notice of advertise Flagging preliminary alignment mitigation Intent

38 Environmental assessment of alignment strategies Pipeline Identification of environmental issues Permit Development of broad management and Application mitigation strategies (Vic) Pipeline Licence Application (SA) EER/EIR SEO (SA) Approval Oct 2001 – Public exhibition of EER/EIR, pipeline permit Approved Response to Approved Pipeline Jan 2002 and licence applications and Statement of alignment within submissions SEO Permit Environmental Objectives a 100m corridor Revised Pipeline Agency and public review of applications and Project approval EER/EIR (if Licence supporting documentation required) Agency and public comment on project Revised SEO Agency decision on acceptability of Project (if required) SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview Vic Acceptance of CEMP Pipeline Licence Subsequent (eg. approvals watercourse crossings, FFG approvals, cultural heritage clearances Receipt of documents Receipt of document SA Acceptance of CEMP Subsequent (eg. approvals cultural heritage clearances) Receipt of documents Receipt of document External CEMP Pipeline Licence Application (Vic) Audit Reports Incident Reports (major) Operations EMP Audit Report Documentation Approvals Internal Alignment Sheets Line List Construction Management System Training packages Application for subsequent approvals Inspection Reports Monitoring Reports Incident Reports (minor) Inspection Reports Maintenance program Rectification Plans Outcomes Construction alignment Detailed management strategies Detailed construction documentation ‘As-built’ alignment Implementation of agreed construction and rehabilitation practices and procedures Implementation of agreed construction and rehabilitation practices and procedures Key Activities Key Permit and/or Licence grantPermit Detailed engineering studies studies Supplementary environmental consultation Ongoing stakeholder Refinement of alignment of detailed management and Development mitigation strategies of construction management Development systems inspection Environmental monitoring Environmental auditing Environmental reporting Environmental of detailed operations and Development maintenance procedures Easement inspection and maintenance / rectification auditing Environmental Jan 2004 Jan July 2002 July Dec 2003 Schedule Feb 2002 – Feb Aug 2002 – (Start Date) Operations Construction Project Phase Project Detailed Design Table 5-2 (continued) :Table The Phases of Pipeline Development

39 Chapter 5: Overview SEA Gas Project EER/EIR construction. In particular, detailed survey, geotechnical of archaeological material is the factor most likely to affect investigations,design and site specific environmental inves- the route alignment during construction. Following tigations would assist in further reducing impact and over- consultation with regulatory authorities and the coming construction constraints. Aboriginal community,minor route deviations would be undertaken,if considered necessary. As discussed above,any In addition, input from stakeholders, particularly in potential change to the alignment will occur within an response to this EER/EIR and accompanying SEO,would agreed management and approval framework (see lead to refinement of the preliminary alignment. Figure 5-2).

It is anticipated that any refinements to the alignment at 5.2.3 Outcomes this stage would be very minor and would take place within an agreed management and approval framework The process of ongoing Project refinement is undertaken (see Figure 5-2). within an agreed management and approval framework. The process involves the development of management Construction Phase systems and key documents and is governed by a range of Minor alterations may be required during construction if checks and balances. The following sections provide clearing or trenching processes identify previously greater detail on these elements. unknown issues of significance. The unexpected exposure

Figure 5-2: Management and Approval Framework for Refining the Alignment

40 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview

Key Documents design specifications,such as the width of the right-of-way, Statement of Environmental Objectives depth of burial and sections of heavy wall pipe, and the In South Australia, the SEO applies to all activities associ- diagrams were based solely on survey information. A ated with the construction, operation, and the eventual number of recent projects have used aerial photograph decommissioning of the SEA Gas Project. mosaics as the basis for alignment drawings and incorporated areas of cultural or environmental sensitivity. The diagrams The intent of the SEO is to outline the environmental reference typical and site-specific engineering drawings. objectives to which construction and operating activities must conform and the criteria upon which achievement of Typical and Site-Specific Drawings these objectives will be assessed. These are engineering drawings that provide construction specifications for common construction requirements, Objectives have been developed based on the information such as watercourse,road and utility crossing. Drawings are provided in this EER/EIR. Detailed management meas- also prepared for environmental management techniques ures and conditions will be developed and implemented to such as topsoil stripping, erosion and sediment control and ensure these objectives are achieved. Management meas- fencing. Drawings may be “typical”and apply to most situ- ures and conditions will be detailed in Project Specific ations,or site specific for unusual or unique circumstances. Construction and Operations Environment Management Plans. Line List The line list provides contractors with a comprehensive Construction Environmental Management Plan tabulation of the specific requirements for each landowner The Construction Environmental Management Plan (private and public). The line list uses property numbers and (CEMP) will be developed during the detailed design kilometre post references and includes the requirements to phase based on: notify authorities regarding entry or certain actions. • the results of environmental impact assessment conducted during the current (Assessment) phase ‘Checks and Balances’ • the defined commitments, environmental objectives, Minor refinements to the Project design, alignment and performance assessment criteria and broad management proposed construction measures take place within an strategies outlined in the EER/EIR and SEO agreed framework. Many refinements will require specific • comments received (particularly in response to the approvals from regulatory authorities. public exhibition of the EER/EIR and SEO),and • licence and permit conditions. Section 2.4 lists the activities requiring subsequent approval and the relevant agencies. For example,in Victoria The CEMP will outline the management system to be any disturbance to rare or threatened species requires adopted during construction and provide an integrated approval from the Department of Natural Resources and summary of the responsibilities of the construction Environment under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 contractor and SEA Gas. The CEMP will contain a and construction in a watercourse requires the approval of comprehensive set of procedures intended to provide clear the relevant Catchment Management Authority under the and practical guidance to the construction workforce. As Water Act 1989. Likewise,in South Australia,activities such such, the procedures will be structured according to the as the disturbance of an Aboriginal relic requires the activity (or task). The CEMP effectively provides an instru- approval of the Department of State and Aboriginal Affairs ment to ensure Project objectives and goals are achieved. under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988.

A CEMP will be developed and submitted to DNRE and In addition, as noted above the CEMP and SEO require PIRSA for review. In Victoria, the CEMP will need to be respective approval of Department of Natural Resources approved prior to construction. and Environment in Victoria and Primary Industries and Resources South Australia. Alignment Sheets Alignment sheets show sections of the pipeline and System of Environmental Management construction right-of-way in plan view at sufficient detail Environmental management will be approached in a to indicate site-specific construction requirements. systematic manner consistent with accepted industry prac- Traditionally,the content was limited to engineering and tice. That is, a project specific system of management will

41 Chapter 5: Overview SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

be developed consistent with AS/NZS ISO 14001:1996, Environmental Procedures Environmental Management Systems), which will The mitigation measures presented in this document comprise the following elements: provide the broad framework within which management • a corporate policy stating SEA Gas’ commitment to will be approached. Detailed procedures will be developed conduct activities in an environmentally responsible during the Detailed Design Phase and documented in the manner (see Appendix 1) Construction Environmental Management Plan. • clearly stated objectives consistent with this commitment Responsibilities • practical procedures to achieve the objectives SEA Gas will be responsible for environmental manage- • clearly defined responsibilities for personnel to indi- ment of the pipeline construction and operation. cate their obligations regarding environmental manage- However, all personnel and contractors are accountable ment through conditions of employment or contracts. Each • appropriate induction and training of personnel individual is responsible for ensuring that their work • comprehensive monitoring and auditing programs to complies with the stated procedures. assess compliance with procedures and the achievement of objectives The individual responsibilities outlined in Table 5-3 indi- • a system of reporting for recording of data and notifica- cate the proposed organisation and accountabilities. While tion of relevant personnel,and it is not the present intention, it should be noted that one • ongoing consultation to seek input from and inform all or more positions may be amalgamated or the responsibili- parties of relevant issues. ties shared under a modified arrangement.

Environment Policy Induction and Training SEA Gas is committed to responsible environmental Construction and operations personnel will be required to management for the construction and operation of the attend environmental induction and training programs. pipeline project and believes that all potential adverse envi- These will be conducted to ensure that all personnel are ronmental effects can be effectively managed in a manner aware of their environmental responsibilities and have the that complies with the requirements of this document. necessary knowledge and skills to fulfil them.

SEA Gas also recognises its obligation to the community to Before construction and operations commence, take all practicable steps to ensure that its operations and Environmental Inductions will be conducted covering activities are conducted in an efficient and environmentally general environmental management issues,including: friendly manner. In addition, SEA Gas recognises the key • management of sensitive areas role of its employees in achieving good environmental • erosion and sediment control performance and actively encourages staff participation in • management of acid sulphate soils the development, implementation and maintenance of its • protection of water quality environment program. • vegetation and habitat management • weed and pathogen control Environmental Objectives • heritage management Environmental objectives are the clear statement of the • protecting existing utilities and infrastructure outcomes intended. Broad objectives have been identified • traffic and access in regard to the management of the physical, biological, • waste management social and cultural aspects of the environment. The SEA • protecting the amenity of landholders,and Gas Project is committed to achieving a range of environ- • emergency response. mental objectives and goals based on broad environmental aspects. The SEO defines assessment criteria upon which It will be the responsibility of the construction contractor achievement of these objectives will be assessed. Whereas, to prepare and implement the environmental induction detailed management measures and conditions outlines the program. Approval from SEA Gas must be obtained prior manner in which these objectives are achieved. to implementation.

Objectives and goals for each aspect of the environment are Environmental Inspection outlined in Chapters 6 – 11 and in the accompanying SEO. Appropriate construction personnel will inspect construc-

42 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 5: Overview

Table 5-3: Personnel Responsibilities Position Responsibilities Project Manager • Directly responsible for the management of the Project, including all environmental aspects. • Reports directly to the SEA Gas Executive Management. Construction Manager • Directly responsible for the overseeing and fulfilling of commitments contained in construction procedures. • Reports to the Project Manager regarding the Project’s environmental performance and due diligence. Construction Contractors • Responsible for ensuring that works comply with the contractual agreements, meet regulatory requirements, and that all environmental objectives contained in the contracts are attained. Construction Inspectors • Field based personnel responsible for ensuring construction complies and Field Engineers with the Project’s objectives. Lands and Environment Manager • Field based employee responsible for the landowner consultation. • Provides advice to the workforce, through the Construction Manager, regarding the implementation of the procedures. • Coordinates the monitoring and audit program. Environmental Auditors • External to SEA Gas and contracted to conduct periodic audits according to the principles of procedures and relevant environment legislative compliance. • The Auditors are coordinated by the Lands and Environment Manager but report to the Project Manager. Environmental / Heritage • Specialist external contractors used in the field to provide advice on Advisers (if appropriate) specific environmental and cultural heritage matters on an as-needs basis. • Report to the Lands and Environment Manager. Heritage Monitors • Aboriginal community representatives engaged to assist with cultural heritage site management in nominated areas during construction. tion activities on a daily basis and complete Inspection commissioning to assess compliance with regulatory Checklists, in accordance with the Statement of requirements and licence conditions. External audits will Environmental Objectives and the Construction be made available to relevant regulatory authorities. Environmental Management Plan. In addition, SEA Gas will prepare a public Annual Report, Environmental inspection during all phases of the Project including audit results, for submission to PIRSA as a will form part of SEA Gas’ normal program. Any non- requirement under the Pipeline Licence. compliances with the SEO and CEMP will be remediated as appropriate by the construction contractor. Records and Reporting During all phases of the Project an appropriate and Monitoring auditable record system will be maintained. Environmental SEA Gas will install Environmental Monitoring Stations reporting will be conducted in accordance with licence (EMS) at representative locations prior to construction conditions.Environmental records will include: commencing. Photographs will be taken prior to • non-conformance reports construction, prior to each main construction phase and • remedial actions taken following incident reports immediately following restoration. • inspection reports • training and induction attendance Auditing • consultation records and meeting notes Environmental audits will be undertaken independently of • audit reports,and the monitoring program by suitably qualified external • monitoring results. environmental auditors. Audits will be conducted twice during construction and once within 12 months of

43 Chapter 5: Overview SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Environmental incidents and identified instances of non- compliance will be recorded and reported on a ‘Non- conformance Report proforma’.

44 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain

6 Soils and Terrain

This Chapter broadly describes the geology, geomor- soils and terrain of the Project area can be reduced to an phology and soils of the pipeline corridor,identifies poten- acceptable level. tial impacts and outlines proposed avoidance and mitigation strategies. In addition, the Chapter highlights aspects of the soils and terrain within the Project area that 6.1 Existing Environment may constrain the development. 6.1.1 Overview The soils and terrain assessment has been based on a review of literature and geological mapping, supplemented by field Geology observations (ground-truthing) (Rosengren,2001). Further The surface geology for much of the corridor consists of to this assessment, a geotechnical survey will be undertaken unconsolidated or deeply weathered materials. Basement as part of the detailed engineering design phase. rock exposure is restricted to small areas near Casterton and in the hills between Palmer and Gawler. The SEA Gas route passes through a range of soil and terrain conditions. Details of this existing environment are From Port Campbell to the approaches to the Mount Lofty described in: Ranges, the route crosses surfaces principally of Cainozoic • an overview of geological, geomorphological, soils and (Tertiary and Quaternary) geology. Much of this is sites of geological significance,and calcareous rock (limestone and marl), including the section • eight bioregions (or landsystems), which detail specific from Port Campbell to the Hopkins River and from south soils and terrain information for each of the following of Naracoorte to the Murray River. A wide area of regions: Pliocene/Pleistocene volcanics with enclaves of stony rises • Coastal Southwestern Victoria occurs between the Hopkins River and Grassdale. From • Volcanic Plains Grassdale to Dergholm, weathered Lower Cretaceous • Dundas Tablelands rocks are exposed in the deeper valleys and there is a small • Wimmera Plains outcrop of the coarse-grained Dergholm Granite south of • Southern Mallee Poolaijelo. Basement rocks of Proterozoic and Palaeozoic • Murraylands age are exposed across the Mount Lofty Ranges. These • Mount Lofty Ranges rocks occur in north-south trending belts and are predom- • Northern Adelaide Plains inantly highly deformed and metamorphosed sedimentary and granitic rocks. Outcrops are restricted to ridge crests SEA Gas acknowledges the environmental and community and steep side slopes and incised channels of the small importance of the soils and terrain of the Project area and is gorges that dissect the ranges. committed to their protection. It recognises that appropriate management of the Project is required to avoid or Geomorphology mitigate a range of potential impacts. These potential The majority of the corridor traverses plains, low hills and impacts are categorised and discussed under the following tablelands with gentle to moderate slopes. Steeper terrain subheadings: is encountered south of Casterton where the Glenelg • trench subsidence,erosion and sedimentation River and tributaries incise the southern edge of the • mass movement Dundas Tableland and there are locally steep sections in the • soil inversion Mount Lofty Ranges. These areas also contain several • soil compaction wide, deep valleys, although the watercourse channels • soil contamination contained in these are small and have intermittent flow. • acid sulphate soil formation,and • disturbance to significant geological features. Temperate climate and moderate to low rainfall across most of the Project area restricts the rate of geomorphic SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appro- processes. Many of the landscape features, such as deep- priate avoidance and mitigation strategies,all impacts to the ened valleys and dune ridges,are relict features from wetter

45 Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain SEA Gas Project EER/EIR or drier climates or result from geologically young tectonic A detailed inventory and assessment of all geological sites and volcanic activity. along the proposed pipeline route was not undertaken. Assessment of sites of geological significance is based on Soils expert knowledge of the project area and observations Soil variation along the corridor is a reflection of parent made during the field survey (Rosengren, 2001). A materials and climate. A predominant characteristic of the number of features of “local” significance were identified soils of the Cainozoic geology is the presence of clearly from the field survey. Examples of locally significant sites differentiated A and B horizons,the B horizon containing a include small sinkhole depressions occurring in coastal much higher content of clay relative to the A horizon. The southwestern Victoria,the terraced floodplain of the Merri boundary between the horizons in these texture contrast River, the alluvial fan at the Curdies River crossing and soils or duplex soils (Northcote, 1979) is relatively sharp, metamorphic textures displayed in the Rathjen Gneiss at occurring over an interval of 10 cm or less. These soils Reedy Creek. The most significant geological feature that occur on a range of parent materials including limestone, is known to occur within the SEA Gas alignment is the basalt,sandstone and mudstone. stony basalt surface of the Harman Valley Flow (lava) near Wallacedale (see Ecology Site 17, Map 5); this is an area of Soils recorded in the SEA Gas Project area are described in “state”significance. In other locations outside the SEA Gas accordance with Australian Soil Classification system corridor, the lava flow is considered to be of “national” (Isbell,1996;Isbell et al.,1997). The predominant soil types significance. This flow is regarded as one of the youngest are outlined in Table 6-1. lavas in Victoria (approximately 20 000 years) and displays unusual mounds (tumuli),ridges and depressions. Sites of Geological Significance Significant geological and geomorphological sites display 6.1.2 Bioregions an unusual, rare or unique material, landform or process. Sites range in size from those extending over kilometres The following descriptions of the soils and terrain of the (for example, Mount Eccles and the associated eruption Project area are based on the bioregions (or landsystems) points and lava flows) to sites of few metres where a rare described in Section 5.1. fossil or mineral is known. Coastal Southwestern Victoria Sites are rated as significant at levels ranging from “local”to This land system extends from Port Campbell to the “international” depending on the contribution to the Hopkins River and is underlain by limestone and marl understanding of geology, the rarity of the feature, the formations of the Heytesbury Group with a veneer of quality of the display and the state of preservation Hanson Plain Sand. It is a gently undulating and weakly (Rosengren,1984). dissected plain with shallow sinkholes and other small

Table 6-1: Location and Description of Predominant Soil Types Soil Type Description Location Sodosols Widespread texture contrast soils that are sodic Widespread with dispersable clay subsoils Kurosols Widespread texture contrast soils that are Widespread strongly acidic Chromosols Texture contrast soils but not sodic or acidic Mount Lofty Ranges Podsols Soils with leached sandy A horizon and strongly Scattered coloured iron-enriched subsoils Calcarosols Calcareous soils formed from calcareous East and north of Naracoorte parent materials Vertosols Clay soils with marked shrink-swell capacity South of Casterton Siliceous Sands A veneer of leached windblown siliceous sands Widespread along the route including areas where the substrate is of calcareous or volcanic (i.e. non-siliceous) materials

46 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain closed depressions. The terrain is more dissected between deeply weathered with some residual boulders outcrop- Port Campbell and the Curdies River where small tribu- ping and basalt stones and ironstone gravels occur in soils. taries are incised up to 10m below the plain surface, Near Wallacedale the route crosses the Harman Valley lava producing valley side slopes of 12° to 20°. Limestone flow from Mount Napier (one of the youngest lava flows in outcrop is restricted to valley edges. Northeast of Port Victoria) and there is a narrow section of stony ridges and Campbell, the Iona – Minerva section of the pipeline trav- depressions and unusual lava mounds (tumuli). erses steeply incised valleys, where slope instability is a common feature. Dundas Tablelands This bioregion extends from approximately Grassdale to The surface materials and soils of the land system are sandy Casterton enclosing the southern-most section of the clays and clay loams with minor gravels and some laterite Dundas Tableland. It lies east of the Kanawinka Fault, a development. Black clay loams including minor occur- major fault lineament with a low escarpment that separates rences of cracking clays and peaty clays occur along the Tableland from the Follett Plains to the south. The streams. Despite the limestone substrate, surface sands are Dundas Tableland is dissected here by the Wannon and siliceous rather than calcareous and texture contrast Glenelg rivers,producing a landscape of broad ridges termi- sodosols are the predominant soils. nating in low escarpments above wide, shallow valleys with extensive terraced alluvial flats. The underlying Mesozoic The Curdies River occupies a wide, steep-sided valley and sedimentary rocks are exposed in the deeper valleys and are at the crossing selected for the pipeline there is a broad allu- overlain on the plateau by Dorodong Sand, a leached and vial fan in a tributary valley. Inundation of the floodplain ferruginised micaceous fine sand. Both formations are occurs as a result of the Curdies River mouth at deeply weathered and many plateau and tableland surfaces Peterborough, usually closed by a sand bar, and the water have a capping of laterite. A number of active mass move- level in the inlet backs up the river valley. ment sites (mainly earth flows) occur on steeper valley slopes and there are gullies in the colluvial and alluvial A broad, well-defined sinkhole with a clay floor occurs deposits. On the plateau surface, locally thick sand bodies along the proposed route immediately north of the Princes have developed on the laterites. Some of these are probably Highway crossing. The proposed alignment has been dune forms but many are a result of leaching and elluviation selected to avoid all such features, generally remaining at of clays from originally more complex sedimentary bodies. least 5-10m from sinkholes or karst depressions. Wimmera Plains The Hopkins River is a deep, permanent water body with This region extends from near Casterton to the southeast steep-sided banks bordered by a well-defined, narrow of Naracoorte. The region comprises a broad, level plain terraced floodplain. The river follows the southern elevated by the Kanawinka fault about 30 metres above the boundary of the Pliocene – Pleistocene volcanics and the Follett coastal plains. The Wimmera Plains have a surface of river channel is probably cut into basalt rock. Tertiary sediments (Loxton Sand and Parilla Sand) that mask all underlying materials apart from one small outcrop Volcanic Plains of the coarse-grained Dergholm Granite along Salt Creek. This land system extends from the northern side of the Hopkins River to near Grassdale. It is a terrain formed on The predominant surface materials are leached acid white Pliocene and Pleistocene newer volcanics basalts with sands and laterites (ironstone). The relief on the Plain is minor additions of tuff and scoria near Lake Wangoom. provided by the gently sloping sand sheets and sand ridges, Inliers of Heytesbury Group limestone occur in valleys that weakly incised streams and shallow depressions with are incised more deeply into the older volcanic rocks but remnant drained swamps. The more prominent sand ridges not filled by younger lava flows. In the southeast, the are arcuate lunettes on the eastern edges of the swamps and surface is flat to undulating with occasional low lava ridges ephemeral lakes. Soils of the sand sheets and ridges are and incised only by the valley of the Merri River. To the typically podosols and peaty podosols, with sodosols on northwest the terrain is more dissected by the Moyne, parent materials with a higher clay and ironstone content. Shaw and Crawford rivers. Surface materials are predominantly clay loams and both gradational and duplex profiles Southern Mallee occur. Heavy, black cracking clays and peaty soils occur The Southern Mallee extends from southeast of along floodplains and depressions. The volcanics are mostly Naracoorte to the Coomandook / Cooke Plains area.

47 Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Topographically,the land system is part of the Pleistocene Gneiss and the Palmer Granite. The siliceous character of shoreline ridge sequence of the Naracoorte Range and is the bedrock and the higher rainfall of much of the Ranges differentiated from the Wimmera Plains by including a has produced yellow podsolic soils with strong texture small area of Gambier Limestone and more extensive of contrast. Many of the cleared steeper slopes in the Mount outcrops of Bridgewater Formation (calcareous dunes and Lofty Ranges show evidence of old and recent mass move- dune limestones). There is a complex of former shoreline ments typically debris flows involving rock and weathered sediments in this bioregion, including calcareous sands, mantle. quartz sands, and the lagoonal and lacustrine muds of the Padthaway Formation. Northern Adelaide Plains The Northern Adelaide Plains bioregion extends from east The pipeline corridor parallels the Kanawinka of Gawler to the southeast of Torrens Island. It is a broad Escarpment, and before crossing the northern end of the piedmont and plain built by alluvial fans and downwash escarpment and travelling north-northwest between the from the Mount Lofty Ranges supplemented by fluvial former shoreline ridges of the Black Range and Mount sediments of the small streams that drained the western side Monster Range. Small enclaves of east-west aligned of the Ranges. calcareous and siliceous dunes also occur. The topography and surface materials change character at Cooke Plains. A The materials are sandy clays with lenses of gravel closer to complex of sodosols exist in the region in response to the the Ranges. Near the coast, sediments are of tidal flat, varied origin and composition of parent materials. coastal barrier and mangrove and salt marsh origin. Urban development – particularly pavements, drainage channel Murraylands realignment, landfill – has greatly altered the natural Named for its proximity to the Murray River, rather than processes that produced this topography. indicating a riverine origin for the landforms, the Murraylands extends from near Cooke Plains to the foothills In addition to the area’s natural geological features, histor- of the Mount Lofty Ranges near Reedy Creek. The region ical land use practices in the Northern Adelaide Plains (and is bisected by the trench incised by the Murray River into in particular the Salisbury area approaching the Torrens Miocene limestones. The base of this trench extends well Island crossing location) have resulted in several contami- below present sea level and is now partially filled with allu- nated sites. vium. The river plain forms a distinct sub-unit in the land system. The surface away from the river trench is dominated The proposed SEA Gas alignment is located within the by prominent ridged dunes and lake depressions with saline Port River Expressway development. Findings from the muds. Both calcareous and siliceous sands occur in the Expressway development environmental report indicate dunes and plates and nodules of calcrete (hardened layers of the presence of significant land contamination (Brown & calcium and magnesium carbonate) are common. Root, 2000). The Expressway development will import “clean” fill material to build the road alignment up to an Mount Lofty Ranges appropriate height above sea level. SEA Gas propose to The Mount Lofty bioregion extends from the eastern- bury the pipeline in this “clean” fill material and hence most occurrence of basement outcrop along Reedy Creek avoid disturbing the contaminated soil in this region. to the western flank of the Mount Lofty Ranges at Gawler. This is an area of varied topography including rolling hills, broad valleys and some deeply incised watercourses with 6.2 Potential Impacts narrow terraced floodplains and alluvial fans. The following Project activities have the potential to affect The region has complex geology. Therefore, a variety of the soils and terrain of the Project area: the geological units occurring in the Mount Lofty Ranges • clear-and-grade operations is crossed by the proposed route. Geological (lithological) • trenching (including blasting) boundaries are abrupt and the rocks are typically strongly • backfilling folded and fractured. The eastern edge of the Ranges • refuelling consists of highly metamorphosed Cambrian sedimentary • construction access,and rocks including brecciated (crushed) and marbleised zones, • construction (if required) and operation of the construc- and Ordovician rocks including the high grade Rathjen tion depot.

48 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain

Appropriate management of the Project will prevent or trenchline erosion. Limestone areas also may result in successfully mitigate potential localised impacts to the soils localised subsidence if construction activities result in and terrain of the Project area. Such impacts include: localised collapse of caverns. Areas of particular sensitivity • erosion and sedimentation include the pipeline corridor between Iona Plant and the • mass movement Curdies River (Coastal Southwestern Victoria bioregion) • soil inversion and the area around Naracoorte (Southern Mallee biore- • soil compaction gion). • soil contamination • acid sulphate soil formation,and In addition, flood scouring has the potential to occur at a • disturbance to significant geological features. number of watercourse crossings resulting in bed incision (gully deepening or widening) or avulsion (channel In addition, the soils and terrain of the Project area present change) (see Chapter 7). potential constraints to pipeline construction and operation activities. In particular,these include: During the summer months when rainfall is low,erosion • trench collapse during construction in sandy soils (or aeolian scour) may result from wind action on soils (siliceous sands) or wet soils where prolonged exposure occurs following initial • areas of steep terrain clearing. Areas particularly sensitive to wind erosion are • areas of surface rock the dune ridges in the Wimmera Plains, Southern Mallee • near-surface caves in limestone areas and Murraylands bioregions. • construction and safety constraints associated with contaminated soils,and Mass Movement • subsidence of the trench. Earthworks have the potential to aggravate local surface instability problems resulting in slope failure, land-slip and Erosion and Sedimentation mass movement. Steep valleys, especially in the Dundas Erosion and sedimentation are key potential environmental Tableland and Mount Lofty Ranges bioregions, northeast impacts associated with pipeline construction projects. of Port Campbell, and at the main Victorian river crossings Pipeline construction primarily consists of earth moving (the Curdies, Hopkins, Crawford and Glenelg rivers), are activities, which remove surface cover and disturb soil particularly susceptible to mass movement. profiles. Therefore, there is potential for sedimentation of the adjacent environments if adequate controls are not On a smaller scale, localised bank collapse may occur at implemented. watercourse crossings, particularly those with large red gums on the channel margins. Rainfall events will predominately occur during the winter months. During this period the pipeline alignment is likely Soil Inversion to be subject to erosion by water and subsequent trans- Topsoil may be “lost”during the construction process by: portation and deposition of this sediment off the alignment • burial beneath, or mixing with, trench spoil during (sedimentation). Appropriate drainage controls, stockpiling topsoil/spoil stockpile management and maintenance of • covering with sediment washed in from adjacent areas, erosion control devices will protect basin/drainage envi- and ronments from erosion and sedimentation (Nelson,1985). • returning trench spoil and topsoil to the trench in a sequence different to original profiles. Inadequate soil compaction over the trench line may also lead to trench subsidence and subsequent erosion, particu- The loss of topsoil reduces the effectiveness of easement larly in regions of heavy clays which have a high restoration and agricultural based land use activities by shrink/swell potential (such as the black soils). Soils that limiting the amount of available nutrients, biomass and expand and contract naturally have the potential to subside productivity. if disturbed. Locations that display black soil components include isolated areas in the Coastal Southwestern Victoria Soil Compaction and Volcanic Plains bioregions. Shrinkage may be a partic- Pipeline construction requires compaction of the back- ular issue as reinstated sections of the trench may subside, filled trench to prevent the disturbed soil from subsiding. changing the local surface flow patterns, which can lead to However, vehicle traffic elsewhere on the construction

49 Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain SEA Gas Project EER/EIR easement can lead to soil compaction, in particular equip- dozers and side-boom tractors) will be refuelled on the ment and machinery laydown areas or areas of heavy right-of-way from a standard fuel truck. These fuel trucks vehicle traffic. Soil compaction may change local drainage hold approximately 16000 litres, however it is highly patterns and prevent effective plant growth. unlikely that a storage tank on a fuel truck would be breached and the entire contents be spilt. Soil Contamination Contaminated soils are likely to be encountered in a As discussed below, the pipeline corridor traverses a number of areas on the Northern Adelaide Plains. number of areas of acid sulphate soils. Without adequate Although laboratory analysis of soil samples has not been planning and management, localised impacts to soil quality undertaken,previous studies indicate the presence of heavy are likely to occur. metals (copper, lead, nickel, iron and mercury), nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), hydrocarbons, phenols, grease Hydrotest water may contain low levels of corrosion and oils,and pesticides from previous landfill,waste disposal inhibiting chemicals. Inappropriate disposal of this water and other industrial practices. may result in localised soil contamination.

Potential issues associated with the presence of contami- Acid Sulphate Soil nated soils involve the health risks to workers and the Acid sulphate soils form where exposure of sulphate rich public through exposure. soils to oxygen results in the production of acid (sulphuric acid). Potential acid sulphate soils may be present in the The potential also exists for Project related activities to following areas: result in localised soil contamination. The main potential • Spring Lane (Volcanic Plains) sources of contamination are: • the Murray River crossing (Murraylands),and • minor spills of fuel or chemicals • coastal areas of the Northern Adelaide Plains. • leachate from acid sulphate soils created by exposure to oxygen (oxidation) of soils during trenching The creation of acid sulphate soils can affect soil quality, • discharged hydrotest water,and water quality and land use. • pumping of hypersaline water out of trenches (Northern Adelaide Plains). Disturbance to Significant Geological Features Construction activities, particularly earthworks, trenching Pipeline projects involve relatively small quantities of and blasting have the potential to cause direct physical chemicals and likely volumes of spills are extremely low. damage to locally significant geological features. Pipeline construction equipment (such as graders, bull-

50 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain

6.3 Impact Mitigation Objective The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts to the soils and terrain of the Project area.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 1.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts and long term environmental risk to soils and terrain of the Project area 1.b To appropriately reinstate soils and terrain of the Project area Operation 17.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to the soils and terrain of the easement 17.b To appropriately monitor rehabilitation of soils and terrain on the easement *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goals* Construction 1.1 To limit the occurrence and extent of trench subsidence, soil erosion and sedimentation 1.2 To reinstate soil and terrain to pre-construction contours and conditions 1.3 To prevent mass soil movement 1.4 To avoid soil inversion 1.5 To mitigate soil compaction if necessary by remedial action 1.6 To appropriately protect soils from contamination and to plan for the constraints posed by pre-existing soil contamination 1.7 To appropriately remediate soil contamination 1.8 To avoid the exposure of potential acid sulphate soils where practicable and to mitigate impacts where avoidance is not possible 1.9 To avoid disturbance to significant geological features Operation 17.1 To limit the occurrence and extent of trench subsidence, soil erosion and sedimentation and to undertake remediation works where required 17.2 To monitor the easement for soil inversion and to undertake remediation works where required 17.3 To mitigate soil compaction and to undertake remediation works where required 17.4 To appropriately protect soils from contamination and to plan for the constraints posed by pre-existing soil contamination 17.5 To avoid disturbance to significant geological features *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

51 Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Mitigation Measures tion and site rehabilitation measures in accordance with SEA Gas has identified environmental management strate- the Construction Environmental Management Plan gies that will be applicable to all phases of Project develop- • install a low broad berm (or crown) over the trench line ment and all aspects of the environment (see Section 5.2). In in areas subject to subsidence following agreement with addition, potential impacts to soil and terrain are specifically the property owner addressed below in the various phases of the Project that is: • leave periodic breaks in the crown to prevent chan- • pre-construction (Design Phase) nelling of run-off along the right-of-way • construction,and • routinely inspect and maintain erosion and sediment • reinstatement and post-construction (including inspec- control structures, particularly after heavy or prolonged tion and hand over to operations). rainfall • implement appropriate measures to permanently solve Erosion and sedimentation any recurring erosion problems During pre-construction: • regularly inspect the easement during operations to • work in close liaison with Catchment Management identify areas of subsidence,and Authorities, Water Catchment Management Boards, the • implement appropriate rectification measures in areas Victorian Department of Natural Resources and where subsidence has occurred. Environment and the South Australian Department for Environment and Heritage, PIRSA and affected land- Mass movement holders regarding the management of soils and terrain issues During pre-construction: • conduct geotechnical surveys during the detailed design • select a pipeline alignment at watercourse crossings that phase to identify areas of potential subsidence or collapse, avoids or minimises disturbance to tree root zones which may include seismic or resistivity surveys to iden- • avoid areas susceptible to slope failure and mass move- tify caverns in the karst areas east of the Curdies River ment where practicable,and • include the findings of the engineering geotechnical • identify areas susceptible to slope failure and mass move- studies into pipeline design specifications and construc- ment on the Alignment Sheets. tion management plans,and • avoid high, steep unstable dunes or active dunes, where During construction: practicable. • implement slope compaction and stabilisation measures in accordance with the Construction Environmental During construction: Management Plan,and • limit ground disturbance and vegetation clearing to the • where practicable, construct during dry periods in areas minimum extent necessary for safe pipeline construction susceptible to slope failure and mass movement. • install erosion and sediment control structures in accordance with the Construction Environmental During reinstatement and post-construction: Management Plan • compact the trench to a level consistent with • install diversion berms and cross ditches to divert water surrounding soils off the right-of-way • implement appropriate physical and biological stabilisa- • direct discharge run-off water away from the trenchline tion and site rehabilitation measures in accordance with at a non-erosive velocity onto adjacent stable ground the Construction Environmental Management Plan,and • routinely inspect and maintain erosion and sediment • routinely inspect and maintain erosion and sediment control structures, particularly after heavy or prolonged control structures, particularly after heavy or prolonged rainfall rainfall. • limit the period between clear-and-grade and restoration to the minimum practicable,and Soil inversion • in areas more susceptible to water or wind erosion, limit During pre-construction: the period between clear-and-grade and restoration. • in the Construction Environmental Management Plan clearly identify the importance of stockpiling topsoil and During reinstatement and post-construction: trench spoil separately,and • compact the trench to a level consistent with • in the Construction Environmental Management Plan surrounding soils identify the importance of backfilling the trench in the • implement appropriate physical and biological stabilisa- appropriate soil horizon order.

52 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain

During construction: with the Construction Environmental Management • stockpile topsoil and trench spoil separately,and Plan. • where practical, return trench spoil in the appropriate horizon order. During reinstatement and post-construction: • inspect easement to ensure any construction generated During reinstatement and post-construction: rubbish / equipment is removed,and • at the completion of works, respread topsoil across the • inspect the easement to ensure that any spills which may easement,and have occurred are appropriately remediated. • regularly inspect the easement to monitor rehabilitation. Acid sulphate soil formation Soil compaction During pre-construction: During pre-construction: • conduct a targeted soil survey of the final alignment • identify access tracks and turn-around points for vehi- during the detailed design phase to identify all areas of cles,and potential acid sulphate soils and include these locations • minimise the number of planned tracks and attempt to on the Alignment Sheets,and use existing tracks. • incorporate acid sulphate soil management procedures into the Construction Environmental Management During construction: Plan. These may include measures to: • restrict all vehicles and equipment movements to the • minimise the time that trench spoil is stockpiled construction easement or designated access tracks and • neutralise trench spoil with lime roads. • contain runoff from stockpile areas in holding ponds or bunded areas During reinstatement and post-construction: • dispose of trench water only after analysis • rip or scarify compacted areas where necessary to facili- • re-bury soil below the water table tate vegetation growth,and • use inert capping (that is, placing inert, low perme- • regularly inspect the easement to monitor rehabilitation. ability soil below the topsoil for a width of 3m),and • compact backfill to prevent acid leachate migration. Soil contamination During pre-construction: During construction: • include a spill prevention, response and cleanup proce- • construction supervisor to check with the contractor dure into the Construction Environmental Management and client Project environmental officer prior to Plan, including refuelling techniques and chemical commencing work in identified acid sulphate soil storage and handling requirements regions,and • conduct contaminated soils surveys during the detailed • ensure the acid sulphate soil management procedures in design phase to identify the location, nature and level of the Construction Environmental Management Plan are pre-existing contamination implemented. • include site specific management strategies in the Construction Environmental Management Plan,and During reinstatement and post-construction: • include the locations of all known sites of pre-existing • inspect the easement to monitor rehabilitation in acid contamination on the Alignment Sheets. sulphate soil regions.

During construction: Disturbance to significant geological features • ensure the easement is kept free of consumable rubbish During pre-construction: (such as lunch wrappers) and construction generated • avoid significant geological features where practicable waste • select the final alignment in the Harman Valley Lava Flow • use drip tray and spill mats for refuelling truck area to avoid disbursing or removing the natural stone • use spill mats and spill containment equipment onsite mounds or filling the depressions,and where diesel pumps are required on the easement • include the locations of all known sites of geological • implement cleanup procedures if a spill occurs,and significance on the Alignment Sheets. • where contaminated sites are identified on the Alignment Sheets, carry out construction in accordance

53 Chapter 6: Soils and Terrain SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

During construction: • ensure construction techniques in regions of identified geological significance are in accordance with Construction Environmental Management Plan.

During reinstatement and post-construction: • inspect the easement to monitor rehabilitation in regions of geological significance.

6.4 Conclusion

The soils and terrain of the SEA Gas pipeline corridor have been assessed on the basis of a review of literature and geological mapping, supplemented by field observations (ground-truthing). A geotechnical survey will be undertaken as part of the detailed engineering design phase. A number of potential localised impacts to the soils and terrain of the Project area have been identified, including erosion and sedimentation, mass movement, soil inversion, soil compaction, soil contamination, acid sulphate soil formation, and disturbance to significant geological features. Strategies for avoidance or mitigation of these impacts have been outlined. SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appropriate avoidance and mitigation strategies, all impacts to the soils and terrain of the Project area can be reduced to an acceptable level.

54 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology

7 Hydrology

SEA Gas acknowledges the ecological and social impor- The areas of shallow groundwater are described in Table tance of the surface and groundwater resources of the 7-1. Figure 7-1 indicates those areas where exposed or Project area and is committed to their protection. It recog- shallow groundwater is likely to be encountered. nises that appropriate management of the Project is required to avoid or mitigate a range of potential impacts, The knowledge of groundwater quality is limited to the such as: broad salinity range. Through much of Victoria’s south- • changes to shallow hydrogeological conditions west, groundwater is fresh to brackish, with an upper limit • interruption or modification to surface drainage patterns of approximately 6000mg/l. Groundwater quality in • sedimentation of watercourses South Australia (particularly through the South East • contamination region), exhibits highly variable salinity ranges, from less • disruption to third party use of surface waters,and than 500mg/l to salinity levels in excess of seawater qual- • disturbance to groundwater infrastructure. ity, at 35000mg/l.

SEA Gas is confident that by applying appropriate avoid- In addition, in South Australia the pipeline corridor trav- ance and mitigation strategies, all impacts to the water erses seven Prescribed Wells Areas and one Moratorium resources of the Project area can be reduced to an accept- Area (proclaimed under the Water Resources Act 1967). able level. These areas have restricted licences issued based on permissible extraction volumes, and include: • Border Share Zone 7.1 Groundwater • Comaum – Caroline • Naracoorte Ranges This section broadly describes the hydrogeological condi- • Lacepede – Kongorong tions traversed by the pipeline corridor. In particular, the • Padthaway section focuses on shallow groundwater resources and the • Tatiara potential impacts associated with pipeline construction • North Adelaide Plains, and activities. The pipeline will not intersect or impact on • Tintinara and Coonalpyn Moratorium Area. deep aquifers and as such these are not discussed further. 7.1.2 Potential Impacts 7.1.1 Existing Environment The following Project activities have the potential to affect The pipeline corridor traverses eight broad hydrogeolog- the shallow groundwater resources within the Project area: ical units (see Table 7-1). Within these, shallow ground- • construction of the pipeline trench water reserves occur in several regional locations, typically • de-watering of the trench to aid construction associated with: • the storage and handling of small quantities of fuel and • interdunal swale areas of coastal Victoria chemicals (which have the potential to be spilt),and • discharge areas,such as Naracoorte interdunal swales and • the presence of the back-filled trench during operation. the low lying areas of Cooke Plains • irrigation areas in proximity to Mount Charles, Keith Adequate management of the Project will prevent or and the Murray River floodplain successfully mitigate a range of potential impacts to the • areas that experience significant and prolonged inunda- shallow groundwater resources found within the Project tion near Naracoorte area. Such impacts include: • surface drainage features (for example seepages and • changes to hydrological conditions springs) associated with fractured rock aquifers, particu- • contamination of groundwater,and larly within Victoria’s Grassdale to Poolaijelo region and • disturbance to groundwater infrastructure. South Australia’s Mount Lofty Ranges,and • coastal areas of the Northern Adelaide Plains (east of the The presence of shallow groundwater may also constrain Port River). standard construction activities.

55 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Shallow Groundwater Shallow Shallow groundwater predominant in inter-dunal predominant groundwater Shallow sections is not anticipated to be intersected, Groundwater of surface drainage features. except at the crossing at very to be encountered is likely Groundwater depths in this section. shallow and exposed groundwater It is anticipated that shallow locations. in several will be encountered tables water to be encountered is likely groundwater No shallow the region through is present groundwater Shallow as near surface (seepage and springs). drainage features places, near surface is present in several Groundwater Naracoorte where including a 20km section around can be exposed duringthe watertable winter. rainfall can cause localised flooding for Extensive periods.prolonged Springs the and salinised portions of the landscape have long-term should the potential to produce flows pipeline intersect. long lasting effects on Potentially the landscape and integrity result, of the pipe may due pH and high salinity of some seepage water. to low Long-term down logging could also result water gradient of these springs and seepages. varying from High salinity groundwater as 130 000mg/l is found on 18 000mg/l to as much River.the east of Port can be This groundwater the surface. 0.2m and 4.0m from found between Unit Description Coastal marine deposits of unconsolidated sands limestone.over lenses Local high rainfall produces brackish waters. water,of fresh overlay which may The corridor deeply incised, traverses very terrain. rock hard limestone. overlying layers volcanic Weathered Basalts with deeper groundwater. Local terrain is commonly of unconsolidated consolidated rock sandstones and limestones over Group.types of the Otway Local high rainfall aquifers. rock the fractured recharges Local transportdrainage features a significant proportion the highlands to from of groundwater surrounding slopes and plains. Sedimentary clays, sands, marls and limestones that comprise the Murray Basin dominate the terrain. is of Commonly the surficial geology cemented sands,unconsolidated to weakly which exist to depths greater than 2m interspersed with limestones. of hard pockets meta-sediments.Well-consolidated is The area zone for the Murray Basin,a recharge on the Ranges’ eastern slopes. rainfall limits the Low rate.recharge the western from Groundwater Adelaide Plains. the Northslopes recharges Quaternary tables, water sediments with perched streams. fed by 15 25 40 25 80 50 20 45 350 (km) Extent Location Port Campbell to Port Allansford to Grassmere Allansford Willatook to Grassmere to Willatook Wallacedale Wallacedale/ Branxholme to about Grassdale Grassdale to Poolaijelo Tepko to Poolaijelo to Elizabeth Tepko North Elizabeth North to Point Pelican rogeological Units rogeological Unit Coastal unconsolidated dunes with associated and swales groundwater shallow with deeper rock Incised hard groundwater lenses and limestones Volcanic groundwater with shallow Basalts and deep groundwater and deep rock Hard groundwater Remnant coastal dunes, swales and lowlands, poorly having associated areas drained swampy interspersedwith watertable with dunes. Aquifers lie within the Mount Lofty Ranges sequence of rock types. Sedimentary sequences that comprise the rich horticultural Adelaide of the Northareas Plains. Table 7-1:Table Hyd

56 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology

Figure 7-1: Areas of Shallow Groundwater

Due to the nature of pipeline construction activities and may act as a horizontal conduit to water, altering the local operational conditions, no impacts to deep aquifers are hydrology. Alternatively,if sections of the trench are com- likely to occur. pacted more than the pre-existing (that is, sandy) conditions, lateral flows of groundwater may be impeded, Changes to Hydrological Conditions potentially resulting in accumulation of saline ground- The intersection of shallow groundwater by the open water at compacted surfaces. trench has the potential to create localised disturbance to flow patterns, particularly in recharge or discharge zones. Contamination of Groundwater Due to the minor depth of the intrusion (approximately The potential exists for Project related activities to result in one metre) and the short period for which the trench is localised shallow groundwater contamination. The main open (approximately one to three weeks, depending on potential sources of contamination are: the location), the resultant impact on groundwater flows is • minor spills of fuel or chemicals considered to be inconsequential. Similarly, no adverse • leachate from acid sulphate soils created by exposure impacts are expected to the values protected by the (and oxidation) of soils during trenching,and Prescribed Wells Areas and Moratorium Area. • discharged hydrotest water.

To aid construction, it is common pipeline industry prac- Pipeline projects involve relatively small quantities of tice to pump any accumulated water from the trench. chemicals and the risks to groundwater associated with Impacts are local and short term and not anticipated to minor spills are extremely low. Pipeline construction have any measurable effect on groundwater resources. The equipment (such as graders, bulldozers and side-boom need to protect soils from potential erosion is discussed in tractors) will be refuelled on the right-of-way from a stan- Chapter 6. dard fuel truck. These trucks hold up to 16 000 litres, however it is highly unlikely that a storage tank on a fuel Backfilling the trench after the pipeline has been laid aims truck would be breached and the entire contents be spilt. to adequately compact returned trench spoil consistent with pre-existing conditions. If the backfilled trench is As discussed in Section 6, the pipeline corridor traverses a significantly less compacted than the surrounding soils, it number of areas of acid sulphate soils. Without adequate

57 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR planning and management, localised impacts to shallow Constraints to Standard Construction Activities groundwater are likely to occur. For much of the year (particularly during or after winter), saturated clays and sands may constrain construction at Hydrotest water will contain low levels of corrosion many of the identified shallow groundwater zones (see inhibiting chemicals. Inappropriate disposal of this water Table 7-1). Likewise, unconsolidated sediments coupled may result in localised contamination of shallow ground- with shallow groundwater conditions in the Cooke Plains water. region, may constrain construction (due to possible collapse of the trench during construction and excessive Disturbance to groundwater infrastructure water seepage). The pipeline corridor passes through a number of areas containing groundwater observation wells. Observation In groundwater discharge areas, substantial outflow is like- wells are managed by the South Australian Department for ly to result in waterlogged trenches at some times of year. Water Resources and the Victorian Catchment High shallow aquifer yields (in sections of the Murray Management Authorities. These wells provide an indica- Basin) are also expected to be problematic during con- tion of water levels and quality,and are often important in struction, where trench de-watering rates will have virtu- their contribution to regional and historic datasets. ally no effect on local groundwater seepage. If they are Impacts to such infrastructure (through physical damage not avoided, springs and seepages in the Mount Lofty during construction) are highly unlikely. Ranges and the Grassdale to Poolaijelo region may also result in substantial flows of water into the trench. The Upper South East Integrated Catchment Management Program is currently investigating the feasi- 7.1.3 Impact Mitigation bility of implementing a regional drainage scheme. Drainage schemes are developed to drain surface and Objective groundwater from areas of prolonged inundation in often The principal management objective is to minimise highly saline environments. The SEA Gas Project adverse impacts to shallow groundwater resources. proposes to intersect the proposed drainage scheme at two locations.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 2.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts and long term environmental risk to groundwater as a result of construction activities 2.b Where practicable, appropriately rehabilitate adverse impacts to groundwater as a result of construction activities Operation 18.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to shallow groundwater resources *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are: Project Phase Goal* Construction 2.1 To prevent significant alteration to hydrological conditions 2.2 To appropriately protect groundwater quality from contamination by fuel, chemicals, acid sulphate soil leachate or other hazardous substances 2.3 To avoid damage to groundwater infrastructure 2.4 To plan for the constraints posed by shallow groundwater to standard construction activities Operation 18.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to shallow groundwater resources *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

58 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology

Mitigation Measures rain. The pipeline will cross many watercourses, which To mitigate potential impacts to groundwater,SEA Gas will: may contain water, depending on the time of year. • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA Code Lakes, swamps, wetlands and other natural drainage soaks • integrate site specific management strategies into the form part of the surface resources of the Project area. SEA Construction Environmental Management Plan Gas has selectively avoided these to minimise impacts. • where practicable,schedule construction during times of low water tables The following sections outline the relevant hydrological • where practicable, align the pipeline to avoid direct features of each bioregion traversed by the pipeline. impact to groundwater recharge and discharge areas Bioregions are illustrated in Figure 5-1, and the surface • compact the trench to a level consistent with water features mentioned are shown on Maps 4 – 11. surrounding soils • install trench plugs to prevent longitudinal water flow Coastal Southwestern Victoria within the trench The pipeline corridor through coastal southwestern • include a spill prevention, response and cleanup proce- Victoria traverses the Corangamite Basin surface water dure into the Construction Environmental Management hydrological region (Hardie, 1997). Major watercourses Plan (which will include refuelling techniques and traversed by the corridor include the Curdies and chemical storage and handling requirements) Hopkins rivers. Ill-defined drainage, swampy tracts and • include acid sulphate soil management procedures into small boggy basins are common. The corridor crosses Port the Construction Environmental Management Plan (see Campbell Creek north of Port Campbell. Chapter 6) • include the locations of shallow groundwater, ground- Volcanic Plains water recharge and discharge, acid sulphate soils and Primary watercourses traversed by the pipeline corridor groundwater infrastructure on Alignment Sheets within the Otway Basin include the Glenelg, Gellibrand • include the findings of the engineering geotechnical and Moyne rivers. The Glenelg River is the main region- studies into pipeline design specifications and construc- al drainage feature, originating from the Grampians area, tion management plans,and north east of Hamilton and discharging to the sea at • work in close liaison with Catchment Management Nelson. The pipeline crosses this river in the Wimmera Authorities, Water Catchment Management Boards, Plains bioregion. Southern Rural Water and the Department for Water Resources regarding the management of groundwater Other major watercourses traversed by the alignment issues. include the Merri River, Manifold Creek, Moyne River, Back Creek, Shaw River, Eumeralla River, Louth/Weerangourt Creeks, Lyne Creek, the northern 7.2 Surface Water portion of the Condah Swamp complex, and the Crawford River. Other standing water features include This section broadly describes the regional surface water volcanic lakes (for example, Lake Cartcarrong and Lake characteristics of the Project area, identifies potential Wangoom) and numerous ephemeral wetlands. impacts to these resources and presents a strategy by which impacts can be avoided or minimised. Issues specifically Dundas Tablelands related to watercourse crossings are dealt with separately Major watercourses traversed by the pipeline in this (see Section 7.3). region include Palmer, Merino and Dwyer creeks. The Glenelg River transects this region, but the pipeline will 7.2.1 Existing Environment not intercept this river until south of Casterton.

Watercourses within the Project area range from small, Wimmera Plains turbulent streams in the steeply graded rocky gullies of the The land surface is little dissected apart from the valleys of uplands to the broad, meandering rivers of the low hills the Glenelg and Wannon rivers and their tributaries which and plains. Watercourses may be perennial (or permanent) include Salt, Red Cap and Deep creeks. The Glenelg and streams, intermittent (or seasonal) streams or ephemeral Wannon rivers are characterised by broad flat valley pro- streams, which only flow for short periods after heavy files often with steep, confining clifflines and slopes.

59 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Major surface drainage through the Dergholm region Northern Adelaide Plains includes Mosquito and Salt creeks. The Northern Adelaide Plains encompass western Mount Lofty Ranges alluvial slopes and adjoins the flat, poorly From the border area through to Naracoorte, substantial drained landscape of the coastal plains. Outwash swamps swampy depressions, such as Benoch and Groker swamps, that formerly occured along the slopes have largely been and smaller depressions and sinkholes commonly occur. reclaimed through flood mitigation. The North Para Several intermittent streams also traverse the western sec- River is the main source of the recharge to the Barossa tion of the plains, and include Mosquito, Yelloch and Valley Basin. The pipeline corridor crosses the South Para Naracoorte creeks. River immediately south of Gawler.

Southern Mallee The most important drainage features of this region are Although the South East region of South Australia has the Gawler River (and its two main tributaries, the North many seasonal and permanent swamps and water bodies, it Para and South Para rivers), the Little Para River and the is almost devoid of surface streams. Smaller depressions Dry Creek system. and water holes occur throughout, with shallow granites, uplifted along the Padthaway Ridge, providing a mecha- Unsustainable water consumption, extensive land clear- nism for water collection. Morambro Creek represents ance, agriculture, industrial and urban development have the only significant watercourse in the Southern Mallee led to altered stream flows, declining groundwater quality and some artificial drainage channels have also been con- and levels, degradation of surface water quality, and structed as a result of common flooding. degraded or lost habitat throughout this region.

Murraylands 7.2.2 Potential Impacts The main drainage feature of the region, and the State, is the Murray River. Numerous streams flow easterly from The following Project activities have the potential to affect the Mount Lofty Ranges towards the Murray River surface waters within the Project area: (Murray Plains Soil Conservation Board, 1995). The • topsoil stripping Murray River extends from North of Roma in • trenching activities Queensland to Goolwa in South Australia (Murray Plains • storage and handling of small amounts of fuel and chemicals Soil Conservation Board, 1995). • hydrostatic testing,and • watercourse crossings (discussed further in Section 7.3). Mount Lofty Ranges The Mount Lofty Ranges Catchment provides the major Adequate management of Project construction will resource for Adelaide’s reticulated water. Surface water prevent or successfully mitigate a range of potential impacts throughout the Mount Lofty Ranges has deteriorated due to surface water resources. Such impacts may include: to land use and urbanisation. The Torrens River is a key • increased sediment load and turbidity drainage feature of northern central region. The Reedy • contamination Creek, Long Gully and Milendella Creek catchments are • interruption or modification to surface drainage found to the east of the northern Mount Lofty Ranges patterns,and (Mount Lofty Ranges Catchment Program, 2001). • disruption to ecology and third party use of surface Intermittent streams such as Harrison and Milendella waters. creeks are dominant features while waterholes and soakages are also common. Reedy Creek is recognised for its No impacts to surface water are expected during opera- geological significance and the crossing of this water- tion, following the successful restoration of surface con- course occurs prior to Palmer. tours and stability.

The upper catchment of the South Para River comprises Increased Sediment Load and Turbidity a landscape of broad crested ridges and dissected slopes. A temporary reduction in water quality caused by sedi- However, the Project intercepts this river in the Northern ments entering streams and increasing turbidity is the Adelaide Plains bioregion. most likely potential impact to occur during construction. The major source of sediment is erosion, transported by surface run-off, stream bank collapse and disposal of tur-

60 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology bid trench water. The extent of sedimentation is deter- planning and management is required to prevent or miti- mined by factors such as soil type, slope, run-off volume gate localised impacts to surface water (as discussed in and velocity and vegetation cover. Section 6.3).

In Victoria, sedimentation due to human activities is con- Hydrotest water will contain low levels of corrosion sidered an important potential impact on streams reflect- inhibiting chemicals. Inappropriate disposal of this water ed in listing under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1998 may result in localised contamination of water resources. as a potentially threatening process. Interruption or Modification to Surface Contamination Drainage Patterns The potential exists for Project related activities to result in Construction activities may result in physical disturbance localised surface water contamination. As with ground- to defined watercourses and to overland flow. Watercourse water,the main potential sources of contamination are: crossings are discussed in Section 7.3. Impacts to surface • minor spills of fuel or chemicals drainage patterns associated with overland flow away from • highly saline groundwater pumped out of the trench watercourses are less noticeable. If they occur, impacts are during construction most likely to be associated with the presence of tempo- • leachate from acid sulphate soils created by exposure rary linear stockpiles of topsoil and trench spoil and mod- (and oxidation) of soils during trenching,and ifications to surface contours during earthworks, which • discharged hydrotest water. may impede or change natural overland flows.

Pipeline projects involve relatively small quantities of Disruption to Ecology and Third Party Use of chemicals and the risks to water resources associated with Surface Waters minor spills are extremely low. Pipeline construction It is recognised that impacts to watercourses are not limited equipment (such as graders, bulldozers and side-boom to the hydrological issues of water quality and quantity,but tractors) will be refuelled on the right-of-way from a stan- may also extend to: dard fuel truck. These trucks hold up to 16 000 litres, • local ecology (terrestrial and aquatic fauna) however it is highly unlikely that a storage tank on a fuel • domestic water users (private and town supplies) truck would be breached and the entire contents be spilt. • rural water users (stock and crop watering) • recreational users (swimming and fishing),and The pipeline corridor traverses several areas that contain • local visual amenity. shallow,highly saline groundwater (notably the area east of the Port River). Inappropriate disposal of saline ground- These issues are discussed further in Chapters 9 and 11. water (from de-watering of the trench during construction) may cause localised salinity increases in surface waters. 7.2.3 Impact Mitigation

As discussed in Chapter 6, the pipeline corridor also trav- Objective erses a number of areas of acid sulphate soils. Adequate The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts to surface water resources.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 3.a To appropriately minimise and manage long term environmental risk to surface water resources as a result of construction activities 3.b To appropriately reinstate surface water contours and landforms Operation 19.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to surface water resources 19.b To appropriately monitor rehabilitation of surface drainage patterns on easement *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

61 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Goals The principal management goals are: Project Phase Goal* Construction 3.1 To minimise the amount of sediment entering surface water features 3.2 To appropriately protect surface waters from contamination by fuel, chemicals, highly saline groundwater, acid sulphate soil leachate or other hazardous substances 3.3 To minimise short term, and prevent long-term, interruption or modification to surface drainage patterns 3.4 Minimise disruption to third party use of surface waters Operation 19.1 To appropriately protect surface waters from contamination by fuel, chemicals, acid sulphate soil leachate or other hazardous substances and to undertake remediation works where required 19.2 To monitor and remediate long-term, interruption or modification to surface drainage patterns resulting from SEA Gas Project activities 19.3 Minimise disruption to third party use of surface waters *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures • reinstate surface contours as soon as reasonably practi- To mitigate potential impacts to surface water, SEA Gas cable will: • prohibit vehicle refuelling within 50m of a watercourse • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA • ensure spill response and clean up equipment is on-site Code prior to commencing works • integrate site specific management strategies into the • include a spill prevention, response and cleanup proce- Construction Environmental Management Plan dure into the Construction Environmental Management • where practicable, select a pipeline alignment that avoids Plan (which will include refuelling techniques and local surface water features such as lakes and wetlands chemical storage and handling requirements) • remain vigilant for expected storm or flood warnings • include acid sulphate soil management procedures into and develop a contingency plan for such events the Construction Environmental Management Plan (see • cease clear-and-grade activities at least 10m from banks Chapter 6) of flowing watercourses • incorporate procedures for management of contami- • conduct subsequent grading and trenching immediately nated water (for example highly saline groundwater, prior to pipe laying (that is,after the pipe is welded) leachate from acid sulphate soils or discharged hydrotest • stockpile topsoil separately from trench spoil water) into the Construction Environmental • stockpile material in bunded areas away from the water- Management Plan. These may include measures to: course banks • contain and treat water on site • ensure adequate erosion and sediment controls are in • dispose of water after analysis place to protect water: • remove water off site • design erosion and sediment control measures that • incoporate prodedures for monitoring and maintenance consider site conditions, slope, vegetation cover, prox- of long term erosion and sediment controls into the imity to sensitive environments, construction phase Operation Environmental Management Plan and climatic conditions • implement appropriate measures to permanently solve • install diversion berms or drains along the top and at any recurring erosion or sedimentation problems,and intermediate points down the slopes to the water- • work in close liaison with Catchment Management course Authorities, Water Catchment Management Boards, • install of silt fences as necessary for interim on-site Southern Rural Water and the Department for Water erosion control Resources, Department of Natural Resources and • monitor, maintain and repair erosion and sedimenta- Environment, Department for Environment and tion controls to ensure they remain effective, particu- Heritage and Primary Industries and Resources and larly after heavy rainfall events and during periods of affected landholders regarding the management of sur- prolonged rainfall face water issues.

62 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology

7.3 Watercourse Crossings is strongly limited by site conditions including geology, landform, soil conditions, and available workspace. Currently,three principal construction techniques for pipe Although it may reduce above ground impacts, the tech- laying at watercourse crossings are used. These are: nique introduces additional environmental considerations • open cutting such as drill site sediment control and waste management. • boring,and In addition to these considerations, the technique increas- • Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD). es the construction duration at the specific location and the workforce required to complete the crossing. In addition to pipe laying, temporary watercourse crossings may also be constructed to facilitate the movement of A full description of these techniques is provided in construction vehicles along the pipeline easement over Section 3.7. minor watercourses, particularly drainage lines. 7.3.1 Existing Environment The majority of watercourse crossings involve small watercourses or drainage lines and are expected to be con- The construction of the SEA Gas pipeline will require the structed using standard open cut (trenching) construction. crossing of several watercourses, including rivers, streams, It is most suited to dry or low flow conditions, and creeks and drainage lines. These are described in Section involves establishing a stable working platform on either 7.2. side of the watercourse and creating a trench with excavators. Flow diversion may be employed where higher The method for most watercourse crossings will be deter- volumes and flows of water are present. mined during the pre-constuction phase. Figure 7-2 outlines the process used to determine suitable watercourse The technique of boring is commonly applied to install crossing techniques. It is expected that most major water- pipelines beneath infrastructure such as roads, railways, courses will be crossed by boring or horizontal drilling. buried utilities and in some circumstances for watercourse Drilling has been identified as the crossing method at a crossings. It is a low impact technique involving the number of significant rivers, including the Hopkins, drilling of short distances from below ground within an Curdies, Glenelg and Murray Rivers. enlarged trench area, or bellhole, within the construction easement. The feasibility of using a bore is limited by site 7.3.2 Potential Impacts conditions, including depth of watercourse crossing, geology, landform and soil type. Adequate management is required to prevent or mitigate in a range of potential impacts of watercourse crossings. The installation of the pipeline by HDD involves drilling General impacts to surface water are discussed in Section a hole at a shallow angle beneath the surface through 7.2. Potential impacts of the three different watercourse which the pipe is threaded. The feasibility of using HDD crossing techniques are summarised in Table 7-2.

63 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 7-2: Potential Impacts of Watercourse Crossing Techniques Technique Potential Hazard Potential Impact Open Cut Inadequate sedimentation controls Potentially high sediment release during backfilling if controls are not adequately in place Horizontal Loss of circulation, collapsed hole, Failure leads to subsequentattempts and Directional Drill stuck drill stem, lost tools possible additional land requirements Drill mud seepage directly into land Prolonged sediment load and deposition and water course Washout of cavities and collapse of Sink holes on right-of-way and under water right-of-way. course Deviation of drill alignment Potential third party damage General Short-term visual impacts due to presence of equipment Boring Collapsed hole, stuck drill stem, Failure leads to subsequent attempts and lost tools possible additional land requirements Washout of cavities and collapse of Sink holes on right of way and under water right-of-way course General Short term visual impacts due to presence of equipment Bellhole Dewatering Discharge erosion, contamination (Source: Canadian Watercourse Crossing Committee, 1999)

7.3.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts of watercourse crossings. Project Phase Objectives* Construction 4.a To appropriately minimise and manage long term environmental risk to watercourse crossings as a result of construction activities 4.b To appropriately reinstate and rehabilitate watercourse crossing locations Operation 20.a To appropriately monitor rehabilitation of watercourse crossing locations *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are: Project Phase Goal* Construction 4.1 To minimise impacts on riparian, aquatic and water dependant biota 4.2 To minimise disturbance to watercourse bed and banks 4.3 To maintain water quality and water flow requirements 4.4 To minimise erosion, sedimentation and acidification impacts 4.5 To achieve long term site stability 4.6 Minimise disruption to third party use 4.7 Minimise visual impact at water crossing locations Operation 20.1 To achieve long term site stability and appropriate site restoration *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

64 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 7: Hydrology

Mitigation Measures • locate HDD drill entry and exit points away from water- To minimise potential impacts of watercourse crossings, course banks,sensitive vegetation and any heritage sites SEA Gas will: • monitor drill entry and exit points for potential frac- • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA turing out of drilling mud Code • dispose of drilling mud (bentonite) and cuttings as per • integrate site specific management strategies into the approval requirements Construction Environmental Management Plan • ensure HDD equipment is in good working order • select a watercourse crossing point that minimises poten- • refuel a minimum of 50m from watercourses tial impacts • reinstate HDD entry and exit sites (revegetation of the • select the most appropriate crossing technique in accor- easement aims to re-establish local indigenous plant dance with Figure 7-2, including boring or directional species) in consultation with regulatory authorities drilling significant rivers where practicable • incorporate procedures for monitoring and maintenance • complete watercourse crossings within the shortest of long term erosion and sediment controls into the period practicable to minimise the period of open trench Operation Environmental Management Plan and subsequent environmental disturbance • implement appropriate measures to permanently solve • rehabilitate crossing points and banks within the shortest any recurring erosion or sedimentation probloms period practicable after works have been completed. • obtain approvals for watercourse crossings (including • avoid watercourse crossing works during periods of temporary crossings for vehicles) from the Glenelg flood or heavy rainfall Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and • ensure all equipment necessary for the stream crossing is Corangamite Catchment Management Authority,and on-site and in good working order prior to commencing • work in close liaison with Catchment Management work Authorities, Water Catchment Management Boards, • ensure spill response and clean-up equipment is on site Southern Rural Water and the Department for Water • cease clear and grade activities at least 10m from banks of Resources Department of Natural Resources and flowing watercourses Environment, Department for Environment and • carry out subsequent grading and trenching immediately Heritage, Primary Industries and Resources regarding prior to pipe laying, that is, after the pipe is welded and the management of surface water issues. watercourse crossing site prepared as per approval requirements • stockpile material in a bunded area away from the water- 7.4 Conclusion course banks • stockpile topsoil separately from trench spoil The Project area encompasses a number of regions with • design erosion and sediment control measures to shallow groundwater reserves, and crosses many water- consider site conditions, slope, vegetation cover and courses. A number of potential impacts to the ground and proximity to sensitive environments surface water resources of the Project area have been iden- • place diversion berms or drains as necessary along the top tified, and watercourse crossings have been identified as a and at intermediate points down the slopes to the water- particular activity that may impact surface water resources. course Strategies for avoidance or mitigation of potential impacts • place silt fences as necessary for interim on-site erosion have been outlined. SEA Gas is confident that with the control application of appropriate avoidance and mitigation strate- • routinely inspect and maintain erosion and sediment gies, all impacts to the water resources of the Project area control measures to ensure they remain effective, partic- can be reduced to an acceptable level. ularly after heavy rainfall events and during periods of prolonged rainfall

65 Chapter 7: Hydrology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Figure 7-2: Watercourse Crossing Decision Process

66 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions

8 Emissions

8.1 Air Emissions within the region. Minor industrial emissions are limited to the small number of wineries in the local region. SEA Gas acknowledges the environmental and community importance of the air quality of the Project area and is 8.1.2 Potential Impacts committed to its protection. It recognises that appropriate management of the Project is required to avoid or mitigate The following Project activities have the potential to affect a reduction in air quality as a result of compressor emissions the air quality of the Project area: during operation and minor dust generation during • earthworks during construction construction. • construction vehicles and equipment • operation of the Yallamurray Compressor Station,and SEA Gas is confident that with appropriate design and • operation of the pipeline and associated infrastructure. management all impacts to the air quality of the Project Appropriate management of the Project will prevent or area can be reduced to an acceptable level. successfully mitigate a range of potential impacts to local air quality. Such impacts include: 8.1.1 Existing Environment • generation of dust from the construction right-of-way, access tracks and work areas Ambient air quality data are only available for the metro- • minor reduction in air quality resulting from vehicle and politan areas of Adelaide (including the Mount Lofty equipment emissions,and Ranges and Adelaide Plains regions). The closest • localised reduction in air quality resulting from emis- Environment Protection Authority ambient air moni- sions from the compressor station and pipeline. toring station to the Project area is at Geelong, some 190km to the northeast of Port Campbell. As such,quanti- Dust Generation fied regional air quality data is not available for the majority The primary impact on the air quality during construction of the pipeline corridor. Despite this, good air quality,at of the pipeline is likely to arise from dust generated both the regional and local scale,is expected due to the lack through earthworks and vehicle movement. Low rainfall of heavy industry and population centres and the prevailing in the summer months may increase the likelihood of dust moderate to strong winds, which are oceanic in origin. impacts. However, no dust issues are likely once the The National Pollution Inventory1 (NPI) database pipeline is in operation. Therefore, significant long-term confirms that there are no major industrial emissions nuisance to residents or a sustained deterioration in the between Port Campbell and Murray Bridge. local air quality as a result of potential dust impacts is unlikely considering: Ambient air quality in the Adelaide Plains region is partic- • the scale of the Project (construction activities are likely ularly dependent on industrial emissions as well as daily and to be completed within four weeks at any one location) seasonal climatic conditions such as prevailing winds and • the temporary nature of the work,and atmospheric inversion layers. Industrial emissions of • the availability of effective dust control measures. particular note include those from hydrocarbon storages, cement, battery and soda production and co-generation Vehicle and Equipment Emissions power production. Minor air emissions of nitrous oxides, sulphur oxides and carbon monoxides associated with the exhaust of On a smaller scale, industrial emissions from the regional machinery and support vehicles will occur (Environment centre of Murray Bridge include those from the hydro- Protection Authority, 2000). However, these sources are carbon, plastic and dairy production and meat processing likely to be negligible in the context of existing farming, industries. transport and residential landuses of the Project area. No measurable impact is likely. The air environment of the proposed Yallamurray Compressor Station, northeast of Padthaway (see Figure Pipeline Operation 8-1) is typical of the rural broadacre farming environment The impact on air quality during operations is expected to

1 A Commonwealth requirement to report industry emissions. 67 Chapter 8: Emissions SEA Gas Project EER/EIR be negligible. Minor emissions from the pipeline are likely and particulates), and has a range of options which allow at valve stations and scraper stations during maintenance the user to adapt the model to suit particular applications operations. and make best use of available source and meteorological data. Minor gas emissions from mainline valves will occur during remote valve operation, as gas pressure is used to The air impact assessment modelling results have been drive the valve actuators. The valves are only operated in obtained using preliminary engineering design (refer Table the event of damage or programmed maintenance. Minor 8-1) and the following meteorological input files supplied emissions from scraper stations will occur during loading by South Australia’s EPA: and removal of the pipe pig, which would normally occur • AUSPLUME meteorological data file (1997) for Cape once every five years. Jaffa. • AUSPLUME meteorological data file (1997) for Mount Fugitive emissions are extremely low from pipeline opera- Gambier. tions. As discussed in Section 11.5, the risk of pipeline ruptures or leaks is also extremely low. As such, air emis- The Mount Gambier file is based on data from the Mount sions associated with such events are unlikely. Gambier Airport, which is about 150km south of Padthaway, while Cape Jaffa is approximately 80km west- Compressor Station Operation – south-west. Mount Gambier Airport is about 30km inland, Air Quality Modelling and as such, may be more representative of the inland loca- To assess the potential impacts associated with the operation of Padthaway than Cape Jaffa, although the latter is tion of the proposed Yallamurray Compressor Station, an closer. In this regard, the uncertainties with respect to ‘site- air quality modelling assessment was undertaken. The representativeness’ have been minimised by undertaking assessment aimed to predict ground level concentrations AUSPLUME modelling with both data sets to encompass arising from air emissions and to determine compliance the meteorological regimes from both locations. with South Australia’s EPA requirements. The dispersion modelling results have been assessed against The air quality modelling results were obtained using the the National Environment Protection Measure2 (NEPM, AUSPLUME (version 5.1) model. This model is generally 1998) ambient air criteria. NEPM standards are regional accepted as being the best regulatory model for predicting levels and are not primarily designed for assessing impact the effects of industrial emissions on air quality in Australia. issues arising from specific sources. However, the adoption This model is a steady-state Gaussian plume model which of such standards is based on advice from the South can be used to assess pollutant concentrations for a wide Australian EPA, due to the context of the proposed variety of sources. Features include setting and deposition compressor station – that is there are no other significant of particulates; downwash; point, area and volume sources; sources of the pollutants of interest in the local airshed plume rise as a function of downwind distance; arbitrary surrounding the compressor station. NEPM standards orientation of sources; and terrain adjustment. The model applicable to likely air compressor pollutants are contained is highly flexible with a range of emission types (gaseous in Table 8-2.

Table 8-1: Compressor Stack Source Characteristics Parameter Stack Height (m agl) 12.5 AMG coordinates (km) (453.394,5961.025) Base elevation (m amsl) 104 Internal Stack Diameter (m) 1.245 Stack Gas Temperature (ºC) 530 Stack Gas Exit Velocity (m/sec) 14.08 Mass emission rate of NOx (g/sec) 2.35 Mass emission rate of CO (g/sec) 0.08

2 The NEPM sets national environment protection standards and goals for six pollutants. 68 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions

Table 8-2: NEPM Standards – NO2 and CO Pollutant Standards and Goals

3 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) • 1-hour average concentration of 248 mg/m (0.12 ppm,1 exceedance day per year)*. • Annual average concentration of 62 mg/m3 (0.03 ppm). Carbon Monoxide (CO) • 8-hour average concentration of 11,250 mg/m3 (9 ppm,1 exceedance day per year). * Note: The conversions from ppm to mg/m3 are at 0 degrees Celsius and 1 atmosphere pressure (STP)

Air modelling results of compressor station NO2 emissions Therefore, the atmospheric dispersion modelling of emis- indicate that the predicted ground level concentrations sions from the SEA Gas Project Yallamurray Compressor

(GLC) are well under the ambient criterion for NO2, Station near Padthaway indicates that the predicted ground specifically: level concentrations for NO2 and CO comply with rele- • The predicted highest GLC at the site boundary is vant ambient standards for South Australia. approximately 60% of the relevant NEPM ambient stan- 3 dard. Stack source emissions of NO2 (0.3g/m ) and CO • The predicted highest GLC at the closest residences is (0.1g/m3) also comply with the maximum allowable levels 3 3 less than 2% of the NEPM ambient standard. of 0.35g/m for NO2 and 1g/m for CO prescribed in the South Australian Environment Protection (Air Quality) The results also indicate that the predicted GLCs are a very Policy 1994. small fraction of the ambient criterion for CO for an 8- hour average.

Table 8-3: Emission Modelling Results – GLCs for NO2 and CO ‘Max.’Pred. NEPM Emission Emission Duration Location Description GLC Standard (µg/m3) (µg/m3) Nitrogen dioxide Predicted 1-hour Site Boundary 150

(NO2 ) Average ‘Maximum Worst-affected Residential 248 5.0 Property Predicted Annual Site Boundary 5.6 Average ‘Maximum’ Worst-affected Residential 62 0.2 Property Carbon monoxide Predicted 8-hour Site Boundary 4.5 (CO) Average ‘Maximum’ Worst-affected Residential 11,250 0.1 Property

69 Chapter 8: Emissions SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

8.1.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts to air quality. Project Phase Objectives* Construction 5.a To appropriately minimise and manage short term impacts to air quality Operation 21.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to air quality as a result of operations 23.a To appropriately manage greenhouse emissions from associated processing plants and pipelines 34.b To minimise and manage adverse impacts to air quality and public amenity as a result of unplanned incidents *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are: Project Phase Goal* Construction 5.1 To minimise dust emissions 5.2 To minimise air quality impacts from emissions from construction equipment Operation 21.1 To minimise dust emissions 21.2 To minimise air quality impacts from emissions from operation equipment 21.3 To minimise excessive emissions from compressor station operations 21.4 To minimise emissions from pipeline and associated infrastructure 23.1 To ensure the Compressor Station conforms with EPA requirements *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures • rehabilitate exposed surfaces as rapidly as practicable To mitigate potential impacts to air quality,SEA Gas will: • lay blue stone aggregate in the above ground facilities’ easement to reduce dust, and Design • keep all construction vehicles and equipment well • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA maintained and comply with vehicle emission Code standards. • integrate site specific management strategies into the Construction Environmental Management Plan Operation • minimise the extent and period of exposed surfaces • design and operate the compressor station to comply • design and operate the compressor station to comply with South Australian EPA air emission requirements with South Australian EPA air emission requirements, • monitor operations to ensure compliance with design and requirements • work closely with Catchment Management Authorities, • implement a program of regular monitoring, DNRE,and PIRSA regarding the management of inspection and maintenance during operations to ground disturbing operations. prevent pipeline rupture and reduce the occurrence of minor leaks from pipeline infrastructure, and Construction • work closely with PIRSA and the South Australian EPA • minimise the extent and period of exposed surfaces regarding management of compressor station air • implement dust suppression measures, such as water emissions. carts, as required during construction

70 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions

8.2 Noise Emissions • directional drilling • operation of the Yallamurray Compressor Station,and SEA Gas is committed to protecting the community and • operation of the pipeline and associated infrastructure. the environment of the Project area from adverse impacts of noise emissions. Adequate management of the Project Without adequate management the noise generated by the will prevent or successfully mitigate impacts of noise emis- Project may disturb people,stock and wildlife in the imme- sions from the compressor station during operation and diate area. Impacts to stock and wildlife are discussed in from equipment during construction. Sections 11.2 and 9.3,respectively.

SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appro- Construction vehicles and equipment priate design and management strategies all impacts to the Pipeline construction activities result in a temporary noise levels of the Project area can be contained below increase in ambient noise levels within the immediate legislated levels. vicinity of the alignment. However,this impact is expected to be of short duration and intensity. 8.2.1 Existing Environment Noise levels generated by the various construction activi- Regional background ambient noise levels measurements ties will vary in intensity and characteristics, depending and studies have not been conducted as part of the pipeline upon the combination of equipment in operation at any impact assessment due to the confidence in predicted one time and the location and duration of the individual impacts. The majority of the Project area is not densely activities. Pipeline construction machinery typically has settled and the pipeline corridor principally traverses agri- noise levels of 90-95dB(A) at distances of 10m from the cultural land. source. However, noise levels in some instances may be higher than usual due to the use of excavators with rock The corridor intentionally avoids densely populated areas. hammer equipment. However, in some circumstances, the pipeline will be constructed within 50m of residences. The Victorian EPA publication TG302/92 (Noise Control Guidelines) provides guidance for acceptable noise levels Between Port Campbell and Gawler,ambient noise condi- within the State. Under these Guidelines typical daytime tions are dominated by incidental traffic and agricultural hours are considered to be 0700 – 1800 Mondays to noise such as general landholder and resident activities (for Fridays and 0700 – 1300 hours on Saturdays. However it example, vehicle and farm equipment movements). should be noted that the guidelines have been developed Anomalies within this broad hypothesis include larger rural to be applicable to stationary and longer term work sites, townships located along the route such as Allansford, and is not the most suitable requirement for pipeline Casterton, Murray Bridge and Mount Pleasant, where an construction projects. Pipeline construction is estimated increase in traffic, residential and small industrial based to be at any one location for up to three months. noise is expected. Pipeline construction activities may occur outside these times and above the suggested levels in order to reduce Between Gawler and Torrens Island the representative the time the construction phase will be in any one partic- landscape and land uses change from rural-residential to ular area. urban-industrial. Traffic from major arterials, airport movements, heavy industry, and to a lesser extent local In South Australia, construction at stationary and long- traffic vehicle noise, contributes significantly to the term work sites is permitted between 0700hrs and 1800hrs ambient noise environment. Monday to Saturday,and between 0900hrs and 1800hrs on Sunday (EPA Information Sheet IS No. 7, September 8.2.2 Potential Impacts 1999).

The following Project activities have the potential to Blasting generate adverse noise impacts: Blasting of rock areas may be necessary during the • the movement and operation of construction vehicles construction phase. Preliminary surveying of the pipeline and equipment route suggests that blasting near populated areas,infrastruc- • blasting of rock areas ture or ecologically sensitive areas is unlikely.

71 Chapter 8: Emissions SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Horizontal Directional Drilling Noise Modelling SEA Gas will aim to minimise the amount of time and Noise modelling techniques, locations and criteria are disturbance associated with horizontal directional drilling outlined in Appendix 2. Two alternative compressor station activities. However, construction hours may need to be locations were considered, immediately northwest or extended in some instances for short periods of time where immediately southeast of Yallamurray Road. Initial model- it is critical that the drill string be maintained to prevent ling showed the location northwest of Yallamurray Road to the hole collapsing. Prior to commencing drilling opera- be the “worst-case” scenario, and the results for this locations, SEA Gas will notify any nearby residences and busi- tion are presented here. nesses to discuss the activity and manage potential third party impacts. Table 8-4 presents noise levels predicted for the compressor station if the turbine package is unenclosed and the inlet Compressor Station Operations and exhaust unsilenced. Table 8-5 presents results at this In South Australia, noise levels from industrial premises are location for an enclosed package with silencers fitted to the controlled by the Environment Protection (Industrial Noise) inlet and exhaust. Noise generated by air coolers, stand-by Policy 1994. This states that ‘an occupier of non-domestic generator and packaged compressor data are the same in premises must not cause or permit excessive noise to be both circumstances. The locations given are the closest emitted from the premises’. A noise level is deemed to be residences to the compressor station (Locations 1 to 7, excessive if it is greater than 5 dB above the background Figure 8-1). noise level and greater than the maximum level, which is stated to be 40 dB(A) at night in rural areas. However, this Without any attenuation on the turbine, the turbine does not necessarily mean that a level less than 40 dB(A) at package dominated the predicted noise levels at receiver night in rural areas is not excessive. locations. It was typically 3-5 dB louder than the inlet or exhaust, 15-25 dB louder than the air coolers and 20 –30 The South Australian EPA have therefore been approached dB louder than the stand-by generator or compressor. concerning the appropriate limit,and they have indicated that With an enclosure, and with silencers fitted to the inlet a night noise level due to the compressor station of 35 dB(A) and exhaust, the turbine package still dominated at the nearest residence would be regarded as acceptable. where predicted levels were greater than 30 dB. In such circumstances it was typically 3-5 dB greater than While acceptable daytime noise levels are higher, night- the inlet, 6 dB greater than the exhaust or air coolers time levels are considered here as the compressor station and 10-15 dB greater than the stand-by generator or will be designed to run 24hrs a day and so must meet the compressor. more stringent requirements.

Table 8-4: Predicted Sound Levels (dB(A)) – Unattenuated Turbine Condition Location 1234567 1 32 42 48 29 43 31 37 2 32 41 47 28 42 31 41 3 18 22 15 38 16 28 16 4 17 20 <15 33 15 25 15 5 <15 21 27 <15 32 <15 32 6 21 25 20 38 18 42 18 7 30 35 36 28 41 27 41 Note: Shaded results are those that exceed likely South Australian EPA requirements.

72 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions

Figure 8-1: Proposed Location of Yallamurray Compressor Station

Table 8-5: Predicted Sound Levels (dB(A)) – Attenuated turbine Condition Location 1234567 1 19 28 34 15 29 18 24 2 19 27 33 15 28 18 27 3 <15 <15 <15 23 <15 15 <15 4 <15 <15 <15 19 <15 <15 <15 5 <15 <15 <15 <15 18 <15 18 6 <15 <15 <15 23 <15 27 <15 7 16 22 22 15 27 <15 27

Results indicated that with no noise control on the turbine Modelling of the compressor location southeast of and with wind conditions favourable for noise propaga- the road (which is more likely to be the final location) tion, all locations (with the exception of two) experience also indicated that noise levels due to operation of the noise levels in excess of 35 dB(A). Several locations also attenuated compressor would be below the recom- experience a level in excess of 35 dB(A) with a temperature mended 35 dB(A) at all nearby residences. Minimal inversion present. increases in noise levels were predicted at some locations, and a decrease in noise levels of 3-4 dB(A) was predicted However, with appropriate noise attenuation devices at the two locations most affected by compressor noise applied to the turbine package (that is, enclosed, and inlet (Locations 1 and 2). Modelling of two additional resi- and exhaust fitted with 16.A.1 and 17.A.1 silencers,respec- dences (Locations 8 and 9) predicted noise levels of tively), none of the residences modelled experienced noise 20 dB(A) or less. levels in excess of the recommended 35 dB(A).

73 Chapter 8: Emissions SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 8-6: Noise Propagation Conditions Used in Modelling

Condition Detail General All conditions assume a temperature of 5°C, 50% humidity and a rural landscape. Condition 1: Neutral – no wind, no temperature inversion. Condition 2: Inversion of 1°C per 100m, no wind. Condition 3: Propagation to Location 1 “Tambo Hills” and Location 2 “Woodlands Park” favoured by 3m/s wind from 30°. Condition 4: Propagation to Location 3 “Swede Flat” and Location 4 “Yalandro” favoured by 3m/s wind from 190°. Condition 5: Propagation to Location 5 “Lindholm Park” favoured by 3m/s wind from 315°. Condition 6: Propagation to Location 6 favoured by 3m/s wind from 130°. Condition 7: Propagation to Location 7 favoured by 3m/s wind from 310°.

Pipeline Operation A workforce of seven field operators is expected for Minor noise emissions are generated at above ground the entire pipeline. Noise impacts associated with access, facility sites such as mainline valves and scraper stations, inspection and general maintenance duties will be particularly during testing, maintenance and emergency negligible. shutdowns. These will be negligible.

8.2.3 Impact Mitigation

Objectives: The principal management objective is to minimise adverse noise impacts to the amenity of local residents by containing noise emissions to an acceptable level.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 6.a To appropriately minimise and manage short term adverse noise impacts to the amenity of local residents by containing noise emissions within EPA requirements Operation 22.a To meet regulatory requirements for Compressor Station noise emissions *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 6.1 To minimise noise impacts associated with the movement and operation of construction vehicles and equipment 6.2 Minimise noise and vibration impacts associated with blasting 6.3 Minimise noise impacts associated with directional drilling or boring Operation 22.1 To minimise noise impacts associated with the movement of operation vehicles and equipment 22.2 Minimise noise emissions from the Yallamurray Compressor Station 22.3 Minimise noise impacts associated with operation of the pipeline and associated infrastructure *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

74 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions

Mitigation Measures Australian load growth, other generation projects and To mitigate potential noise impacts,SEA Gas will: power prices. Current Victorian brown coal generation • schedule normal construction in accordance with exports will continue to be very competitive in South respective state EPA recommendations (for South Australian markets. Australia, EPA Information Sheet IS No.7 and No.9 1999;for Victoria,EPA publication TG302/92 1992) 8.3.2 Overview of Greenhouse Gas • where practicable, restrict noisy activities for normal Intensity working hours • consult with local residents when unavoidable out-of- As indicated in Table 8-7,when total emissions over the full hours work is required fuel cycle are considered, natural gas remains the lowest • select appropriate equipment source of emissions for fossil fuel combustion because of its • fit and maintain appropriate mufflers on earth-moving inherent chemical characteristics. In electricity generation, equipment and other vehicles on the site natural gas results in the lowest emissions, with black and • carry out blasting in accordance with state legislation and brown coal producing the highest greenhouse gas emis- not close to any residential areas sions, respectively. Within natural gas fired electricity • use drilling equipment with noise ratings suitable for use generation, cogeneration has the lowest greenhouse gas on public roads intensity (kilotonnes of CO2 equivalent/PJ)3 and open • design compressor station to meet noise levels of cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) have the highest greenhouse 35dB(A) at all residences (requiring acoustic enclosure gas intensity. Comparisons are set out in Table 8-7. around the turbine package and silencers fitted to the inlet and exhaust) Greenhouse gas emissions from using energy source • re-model noise emissions based on detailed compressor depends primarily on the inherent and internationally design accepted greenhouse gas emissions’ characteristics of the • consult with landholders on the purpose and function of energy source. However, emissions associated with the blow off points extraction, processing and transport of fuels must also be • work closely with residents, local government, DNRE taken into account during the assessment process. Gas and PIRSA regarding the management of construction basins are associated with different levels of emissions noise,and during extraction and processing, particularly with respect • work closely with PIRSA and the South Australian EPA to the quantity of carbon dioxide extracted. Some fugitive regarding management of Compressor Station noise methane losses are also associated with extraction, emissions. processing,transmission and distribution. According to the Australian Gas Association (AGA) these losses account for less than 2 per cent of Australian wellhead gas production. 8.3 Greenhouse Gas 8.3.3 Greenhouse Implications 8.3.1 Background The greenhouse implication of the SEA Gas Project will, Natural gas for the SEA Gas Project will be sourced from like all gas pipeline projects,depend on three main factors: either the Otway or Bass Strait Basins. Gas from the Otway • the development of new natural gas fields, associated Basin will initially come from the Minerva field. Potential processing plants and pipelines and greenhouse emissions exists to source gas from a range of on-shore prospects and from such projects future developments such as Thylacine and Geographe. • increasing the use of natural gas in Australia,compared to The gas will be used for electricity generation using more greenhouse intensive fossil fuels,and modern high-efficiency combined cycle gas turbine tech- • impact on renewable energy sources. nology,and for reticulation to domestic users. Project Associated Emissions The benefit of the SEA Gas Project on electricity markets The greenhouse impacts of developing new natural gas will be to provide additional security of supply to South fields and associated infrastructure is highly variable and Australia during peak demand periods, and to potentially depends on a number of factors. As indicated above, the meet increases in the base load required by industry. The composition of the gas from the field is critical, in partic- impact on imports from Victoria will depend on South ular its CO2 content. The control of gas emissions in the

3 GHG intensity can also be expressed as tonnes of CO2 /MWh or kilotonnes/GWh. For 75 example 190.9 kt/PJ equates to 0.69 kt/GWh. Chapter 8: Emissions SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 8-7: Indicative CO2 equivalent emission factors for typical Australian fuels,including fuel and processing emissions (kt/PJ) Emissions intensity Fuel Processing Fugitive End-use Total combustion Natural gas 11.9 8.0 51.3 71.2 LPG 11.9 8.0 59.4 79.3 Diesel 14.0 8.0 70.0 92.0 Automotive gasoline 13.2 8.0 66.0 87.2 Fuel oil 14.7 8.0 73.3 96.0 Black coal – open cut 0.8 0.9 90.0 91.7 Black coal – underground 0.6 7.3 90.0 98.0 Brown coal 0.0 0.0 95.0 95.0 Derived electricity from: Natural gas1 – OCGT 11.9 8.0 171.0 190.9 Natural gas2 – CCGT 11.9 8.0 103.0 122.9 Distillate3 – OCGT 14.0 8.0 233.0 255.0 Black coal4 – underground 0.8 9.7 225.0 235.5 Brown coal5 0.7 0.0 290.0 290.7 Cogeneration6 11.9 8.0 71.0 90.9 Notes: 1. Open cycle gas turbine, 30 per cent efficiency. 2. Combined cycle gas turbine, 50 per cent efficiency. 3. Open cycle gas turbine, liquid fuel 30 per cent efficiency. 4. New supercritical coal-fired station, 40 per cent efficiency – fired with underground coal mine. 5. Typical existing brown coal stations, 33 per cent efficiency. 6. Typical new gas-fired cogeneration, 70 per cent efficiency. Source: Greenhouse Emissions Trading, January 2000, a report prepared by the Allen Consulting Group for the Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet, page 25.

gathering system is also essential, as is control of emissions 2. Gas from the SEA Gas Project has the potential to at the processing plant (not assessed as part of this project). displace more greenhouse gas intensive fuels in electricity generation through the use of open cycle gas Although natural gas is a fossil fuel, with associated green- turbines, combined cycle gas turbines, cogeneration house gas emissions,net-positive greenhouse gas outcomes plants (significant Origin plans) and/or micro gas can be achieved, depending on the intended use. The SEA turbines. Gas Project Gas will contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in two main ways: Increased Natural Gas Utilisation 1. The SEA Gas project will introduce gas on gas competi- Peak demands in South Australia are growing by 60-80 tion into South Australian markets. The extent of this MW per year. Victorian base and peak domestic demands competition will depend on market gate prices are also estimated to increase. If the Victoria to Tasmania compared with current market gate prices. The Project Basslink Project proceeds, exports to South Australia has the potential to lower real gas prices in South may potentially decrease, increasing the need for Australia over the 2004-15 period and beyond. This, in South Australia to increase electricity generation turn, will increase the market penetration of gas, capacity. displacing more greenhouse gas intensive (kg of

CO2e/GJ) fuels such as coal and petroleum products in Impact on Renewable Energy Sources a range of heating applications (particularly process, Should the SEA Gas Project displace electricity derived water heating). from renewable sources, the Project would be considered to result in a negative greenhouse impact. However, this

76 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 8: Emissions is very unlikely as the renewable electricity market is that nearby residences will not experience noise levels in protected from fossil-fuel competition by the federal excess of the recommended 35 dB(A). SEA Gas is confi- Mandated Renewable Electricity Target (MRET) legisla- dent that with the application of appropriate design and tion and voluntary purchases of Green Power. This market management strategies all impacts to the noise levels of the will require at least another 10,500 GWh of renewable Project area can be contained below legislated levels. energy (for MRET) and Green Power demands over 2001- 10 (and probably higher thereafter). To meet this natural The SEA Gas Project has the potential to significantly market,some plants are being built in South Australia – the reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Origin plantation wood plant (60 MW) at Tarpeena and the 30-60 MW Babcock-Brown wind plant at Lake Bonney.

Rigorous control of emissions from development facilities, both offshore and onshore,is critical. Although not directly related to this project, offset sink enhancement may also be undertaken by the primary offshore developer to achieve lower net emissions. However,these remedial measures are secondary to the abatement of greenhouse gas through emission management by the appropriate field operator. Rigorous management of pipeline related emissions will be undertaken by SEA Gas.

The SEA Gas Project has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The level of reduction depends on end-point gas usage, government policies and developments in the National Electricity Market (NEM).

8.4 Conclusion

A range of potential impacts to air quality of the Project area have been identified. These include generation of dust,minor vehicle and equipment emissions,and localised emissions from the compressor station and pipeline. Strategies for mitigation of these impacts have been outlined, and modelling of the Yallamurray Compressor Station indicates that emissions will comply with relevant ambient standards. SEA Gas is confident that with appropriate design and management all impacts to the air quality of the Project area can be reduced to an acceptable level.

Noise emissions generated by construction and operation of the Project have the potential to disturb people, stock and wildlife in the immediate area. Potential sources of noise include Project construction (relatively short duration and generally low intensity), operation of the compressor station, and operation of mainline valves and scraper stations (localised and minor noise emissions). Strategies for management of noise levels have been outlined, and modelling of the compressor station predicts

77 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

78 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

9 Ecology

SEA Gas acknowledges the importance of the ecological The bio-assessment consisted of the following: values of the Project area and is committed to their protec- • Desktop review: tion. It recognises that appropriate management of the • available published and unpublished literature Project is required to prevent or mitigate a range of impacts • regional conservation/biodiversity management plans, to flora and fauna species, communities and habitats. Such and those prepared for other development projects impacts may include: • State flora and fauna databases for the occurrence of • removal of remnant vegetation listed species and communities within the proposed • fauna mortality corridor,and • destruction of fauna habitats • aerial photography analysis to identify potential • fragmentation of fauna habitats features and areas of ecological significance (including • disruption to critical fauna lifecycle stages remnant vegetation, watercourses, roadsides and • loss of biodiversity wetlands). • spread of ecological weeds,and • A field survey,undertaken over eight days in June 2001, • spread of pathogens. which involved: • surveying the pipeline corridor, including areas identi- However,SEA Gas is confident that with the application of fied during the desktop review as potentially being appropriate impact avoidance and mitigation strategies all significant (such as areas of remnant vegetation) potential adverse ecological effects can be reduced to an • inspecting some 200 locations (approximately 100 in acceptable level. each State),and • compiling specific information at 88 sites. This Chapter broadly describes the ecological setting of the • An assessment report,which: Project area, identifies potential impacts and outlines • identified key sensitivities, communities and potential proposed avoidance and mitigation strategies. It provides a habitat locations bioregion-based overview of significant ecological issues • indicated the likelihood of these occurring in the and sensitivities, rather than presenting detailed flora or Project corridor,and fauna data. Information on flora and fauna issues at specific • provided a basis for management strategies. locations is presented in Appendix 3. This appendix also outlines potential approaches to impact mitigation at Confidence of Assessment these sites, and indicates where further survey work will The findings of the ecological assessment were based on a be beneficial in refining the site specific management three-part bio-assessment approach, in association with a measures (which will be included in the Construction field survey conducted in winter. In view of supporting Environmental Management Plan). information, there is moderate to high level of confidence in the results of the principal findings,including: • plant community description and condition assessment 9.1 Methodology • conservation status of plant community • habitat assessment,and The ecological assessment was undertaken by Ecology • potential for rare or threatened fauna or flora. Australia, using a streamlined bio-assessment approach, to identify key flora and fauna attributes. This provided a suit- The main limitations relate to the site inventories, particu- able technique for the identification and assessment of critical larly for rare or threatened plant species, and to a lesser ecological issues associated with the Project area. As outlined extent, rare or threatened fauna. Spring or summer annual in Chapter 5, this assessment is part of an iterative process. species may not have been detected in winter, and further Project refinement over time will occur as engineering and surveys for some sites are recommended at the appropriate environmental field studies provide greater site-specific time of year. This will allow the presence of such species to detail. This will improve the resolution of the 100m wide be determined, and appropriate impact mitigation strate- pipeline corridor (and the alignment within it), as well as gies to be refined. impacts and impact mitigation procedures at significant sites.

79 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

9.2 Existing Environment The locations of the field sites of potential significance referred to in the following sections are marked on Maps 4 The area traversed by the pipeline corridor has largely been to 11. Appendix 3 contains specific information on each cleared of native vegetation and is primarily used for agri- site, including ecological issues, potential impacts and culture (refer to Section 11.1). Areas of remnant woodland possible mitigation strategies. It also provides a summary of and grassland that do remain are restricted to conservation species and communities listed under the EPBC, NPW or parks,forest reserves,small stands of vegetation and isolated FFG Acts that may occur at these sites. individual trees on private property,riparian corridors and road reserves. The pipeline corridor avoids all areas Coastal Southwestern Victoria proclaimed for flora and fauna conservation and traverses The pipeline corridor in this bioregion is characterised by land that is principally cleared and developed. It passes a substantially cleared agricultural landscape, with most through a limited amount of degraded native vegetation, vegetation occurring as isolated patches in paddocks, as and only 1km of the 670km total length (0.15%) contains roadside remnants or associated with watercourses. After substantially intact vegetation that may be impacted by the 20km the corridor parallels the existing gas pipeline to pipeline. Portland for 40km. The alignment avoids major patches of remnant vegetation on farmland and does not impact It is within this context that the ecological assessment on any public reserves. Several roadside remnants are needs to be considered. That is,the following discussion by considered to comprise moderate to good quality vegeta- necessity focuses on remnant vegetation communities and tion. Watercourse crossings in this region include the ecologically sensitive areas. However, these areas are not degraded Spring and Port Campbell Creeks, the deep- representative of the environmental features of the pipeline water/estuarine Curdies River and the revegetated corridor as a whole. Hopkins River.

The following discussion is based on the eight bioregions Sites 1-8 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. as described in Section 5.1. Flora is discussed primarily on the basis of Ecological Vegetation Classes in Victoria and Key sensitivities include: Floristic Community in South Australia (using the • crossings of the Curdies and Hopkins rivers,and typology of Kahrimanis et al. (2001),Croft et al. (1999) and • remnant road reserve vegetation. Robertson (1998). The conservation status of each vegetation class, as defined in these sources and by DNRE Flora (unpublished data), Traill and Porter (2001) and Neagle The principal Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC) within (1995),is given as: the pipeline corridor include Swamp Woodland/Heath (V) • Depleted (D) and Riparian Scrub (V). Coastal Foothill Forest (D) is • Rare (R) present in the region,but the pipeline corridor crosses only • Vulnerable (V),and one roadside remnant of this EVC, between the Minerva • Endangered (E). and Iona gas plants.

The conservation status of flora and fauna species is indi- No rare or threatened plant species were identified within cated using an abbreviation of the legislation that they are the corridor,but potential species include Dianella callicarpa listed under: and Diuris palustris. • Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) Fauna • Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG),and Roadside remnants and watercourses represent potential • South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 habitat for a number of threatened species: (NPW). • Swamp Gums in road reserves and riparian corridors represent potential nectar sources for Swift Parrot Species listed under the EPBC Act are also referred to in (EPBC and FFG). However,literature suggests that there the text as having national conservation significance, and is a low likelihood of this species occurring in the Project those listed under State legislation are referred to as having area. state conservation significance. • Rufous Bristlebirds (FFG) are known to use strips of dense but narrow habitats along road reserves.

80 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

• The Chestnut-rumped Heathwren (Sites 2, 6), Eastern • Stoney Rises of the Harman Valley Volcanics – Tree Violet Pygmy-possum (Sites 2, 6) and Swamp Antechinus are shrublands, potential Striped Legless Lizard (EPBC, known to use Swamp Woodland/Heath, but are not FFG) habitat. known to utilise road reserves. • Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBC, FFG) have previously been Flora recorded in Spring Creek and Curdies River,although it Two significant species listed under the provisions of the is unlikely that these species are resident in the degraded EPBC Act and FFG Act were recorded within the current sections of the pipeline crossing. The Curdies River is alignment: also known feeding habitat for the Great Egret (FFG), • Carex tasmanica (Curly Sedge) – A large population was and potential habitat for other significant waterbirds (for identified from field survey on the floodplain of example Pied Cormorant and Royal Spoonbill). Breakfast Creek (Site 16, Plate 9-1). Published records • Yarra Pygmy Perch other significant species, such as also suggest possible occurrences south of Branxholme Australian Grayling (EPBC, FFG) and Dwarf Galaxias (Arrandoorong Creek). (EPBC, FFG), have previously been recorded in the • Dianella amoena (Matted Flax-lily) – This was located in Hopkins River. The River system also represents poten- Plains Grassland remnants at two road crossings and in tial habitat for River Blackfish, Mountain Galaxias, the decommissioned rail reserve, south of Branxholme Nankeen Night Heron, and Water Rat,with all species (Plate 9-2). moderately to highly likely to reside in the vicinity of the pipeline crossing. A number of other rare (and listed) grassland taxa potentially may occur in the identified remnants, including Volcanic Plains Glycine latrobeana, Cullen parvum and Leucochrysum albicans This bioregion would have formerly supported grasslands ssp. albicans var. tricolor. and grassy woodlands, which through the process of pastoralisation and rural development have been signifi- Fauna cantly reduced to a relic of their former range. Most Survey findings identified several fauna habitats that may remnants along the pipeline corridor are now confined to potentially support significant species: road reserves and degraded riparian locations. • Plains Grassland in road and rail reserves (sometimes in Consequently,remaining examples are highly significant. association with Poa Grassland) may support Striped Sites 9-21 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. Legless Lizard (EPBC, FFG) and Fat-tailed Dunnart (FFG) (Sites 11,12,15,20 and 21). Plains Grassland (FFG) is the major Ecological Vegetation • The Stoney Rises of the Harman Valley Volcanics display Class present on the older volcanics and is mostly confined significant reptile habitat, particularly for Striped Legless to road reserves. The pipeline corridor also traverses two Lizard (EPBC,FFG) (Site 17) and Fat-tailed Dunnart. younger larva flows, which would have supported quite • Breakfast Creek, where permanent streams with pools different vegetation to the older volcanic plains, such as support dense stands of aquatic vegetation, is potential Manna Gum Woodlands. However, of these two younger breeding habitat for the Southern Bell Frog (EPBC, flows, Harman Valley supports the only appreciable FFG) and Dwarf Galaxias (EPBC,FFG). State to nation- remnants, which include Tree Violet shrublands ally significant waterbirds (Great Egret,Buff-banded Rail (Hymenanthera sp. aff. dentata – Volcanic Plains variant). and Lewin’s Rail),are also moderately to highly likely to Field surveys identified a substantial population of Curly occur during flooded conditions (Site 16). Sedge Carex tasmanica (EPBC, FFG) at Breakfast Creek, northeast of Macarthur. In addition,the proposed corridor Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBC, FFG), has previously been intersects a remnant of Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland recorded in the bioregion. Drysdale Creek, a tributary of (identified from recent EVC mapping),approximately 8km the Merri River, is recorded to support this species. northeast of Digby. However, based on site inspection it is unlikely that the species is a resident in the degraded section of the pipeline Key sensitivities identified along the pipeline corridor crossing. within this bioregion include: • Plains Grassland in road reserves Brolga (FFG, NPW) have been recorded in this bioregion, • Curly Sedge population at Breakfast Creek floodplain, feeding and nesting in seasonal freshwater meadows or and marshes between July and December,and flocking to more

81 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR permanent wetlands for the remainder of the year (Arnol et During the field survey, the following habitat types were al.,1984). The pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid identified to potentially support significant species: such features. • Degraded Poa labillardieri Grassland (south of McCrae Creek) may support the Striped Legless Lizard (EPBC, Dundas Tablelands FFG), although the likelihood of occurrence is consid- The section of the pipeline corridor, along the southern ered low due to the degraded/grazed state (Site 22). edge of the Dundas Tableland, supports some remnants. • The Glenelg River riparian corridor is habitat for Bush Most are degraded examples of Grassy Woodland domi- Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Black-chinned nated by old growth Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) in Honeyeater and Tree Goanna. In addition,Yellow-tailed long-established pasture. The McCrae Creek and Glenelg Black-cockatoo are likely to occur due to the presence of River areas contain significant vegetation remnants,poten- breeding habitat (hollows). tially supporting a wide range of fauna species. Sites 22-25 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. Wimmera Plains The Wimmera bioregion comprises extensive sandy plains Key ecological sensitivities identified along the pipeline and aeolian dune landforms extending from Casterton to corridor in this bioregion include: Naracoorte. Prominent ecological attributes of these sands • widespread occurrence of Red Gums and their possible include extensive populations of old growth Red Gum use by the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (remnants of the former Grassy Woodlands) occurring on • instream and riparian corridor of the Glenelg River,and the plain, and heathy woodlands in dune systems (particu- • Common Tussock Grass Grasslands south of McCrae larly in the Dergholm area). Many of the streams support Creek. contiguous, albeit degraded vegetation. Sites 26-49 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. Flora South of McCrae Creek, extensive Common Tussock Wide-ranging ecological sensitivities identified along the Grass (Poa labillardieri) grassland occurs and is representative pipeline corridor include: of a former grassy woodland environment (Site 22). The • the predominance of Red Gums,recognised for intrinsic Glenelg River (Site 25) supports degraded but old growth values and as habitat for threatened fauna,particularly the Riverine Forest (that is,Red Gum populations). threatened Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo • road reserve vegetation supporting contiguous dense old Published data revealed no threatened plant species, growth Red Gums although the rare Casterton variant of Acacia verniciflua, • the presence of Damp Heathy Woodland/Damp Sand Prasophyllum diversiflorum and the rare grassland herbs listed Heath for the Volcanic Plains may occur. • riverine riparian corridors of Deep and Salt Creeks,and • habitat values of State Forest (including Roseneath State Fauna Forest) near Dergholm. Likely fauna habitat identified in the bioregion is generally restricted to watercourse corridors, grassland habitat and Flora Red Gum and other eucalypt stands. Species known to Major Ecological Vegetation Classes (Victoria) and occur within the Glenelg riparian corridor (Site 25) Floristic Communities (South Australia) recorded along include: the pipeline corridor in this section include: • residents such as Koala, Water Rat,Variegated Pygmy • Plains Grassy Woodland (Vic) syn. Eucalyptus camaldu- Perch and Yarra Pygmy Perch lensisWoodland (SA) (V) • Red-tailed Black-cockatoo (EPBC, FFG) and the bat • Damp Heathy Woodland (Vic) (V) species Southern Myotis associated with hollow-bearing • Damp Sand Heathland (Vic) (V),and trees and stags,and Woodland feeding habitat,and • Eucalyptus arenacea/baxteriWoodland (SA) (D). • Dwarf Galaxias (EPBC, FFG), River Blackfish and Mountain Galaxias. However,shallow flow,low instream Brown Stringy Bark and Sand Heath in excellent condi- diversity (eg. vegetation, fallen timber, litter etc.) and tion occur between Casterton and Dergholm, and are degradation potentially precludes the occurrence of resi- particularly evident in Roseneath State Forest (Plates 9-3, dents within the Project area. 9-4).

82 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

No rare or threatened plant species were recorded in the ground. The closest of the more permanent wetlands is pipeline corridor, but database records indicate that the Lake Caranta, which is over 1km from the proposed align- nationally significant species Caladenia formosa, Glycine ment. latrobeana,Pterostylis cucullata,Caladenea colorata and Dodonea procumbensi may occur along the pipeline route. Southern Mallee The pipeline corridor traverses remnant beach ridges, Fauna dunes and plains, characteristic of the Naracoorte Coastal Red Gum Grassy Woodlands, Damp Heathy Woodlands Plain. Much of the former dominant Mallee and South and Sand Heath potentially support diverse avian commu- Australian Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) Woodland nities. Key habitat areas include riparian corridors, communities from Naracoorte to Tailem Bend have been Roseneath Forest and road reserve vegetation, in addition cleared. At a landscape scale, remnants are patchily distrib- to isolated eucalypt stands. uted, isolated, with connecting links restricted to roadsides or watercourses. Within this bioregion, South Australian The entire Wimmera bioregion provides an important Blue Gum progressively replaces Red Gum as the domi- feeding, breeding and nesting habitat for the Red-tailed nant species of the plains ecosystem, with Red Gum Black Cockatoo. Locations in the pipeline corridor identi- confined to drainage lines and associated floodplains. Sites fied as most likely to support this species are associated with 50-63 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. riparian habitat,Deep Creek (Site 26),Salt Creek (Site 37), Mosquito Creek (Site 43) and Roseneath State Forest (Site Roadside remnants are often broad (>20m), contiguous 29 – 34 and 36). and of moderate to good quality,representing habitat links in an otherwise denuded landscape. Most roadsides are Deep Creek (Site 26), and Salt Creek (Site 37), ephemeral dominated by Mallee species,but several have extant South tributaries of the Glenelg River, may potentially contain Australian Blue Gum Woodland with scattered or co- Variegated and Yarra Pygmy Perch. However the likeli- dominant Rough Barked Manna Gum and/or Pink Gum. hood of these species occurring is low to moderate. Koala and Water Rat are known resident species of the tributaries, The pipeline corridor passes through two regions desig- and the riparian corridor may also potentially support nated as “Threatened Habitat Areas” (Croft et al., 1999) – species of national and state significance, such as Brown the Binnum-Hynam-Kybybolite Districts and the Keith- Treecreeper,Southern Myotis,Black-chinned Honeyeater, Willalooka Districts. The woodlands in these areas have Tree Goanna, Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo, and with been extensively cleared and are highly fragmented, poorly lower certainty Bush Stone-curlew and Diamond Firetail. conserved, and remnants contain many species and plant communities of conservation significance. They require Brown Stringybark Woodland and Sand Heath between action to conserve existing habitats and rehabilitate and Casterton and Dergholm, including Roseneath State restore the native vegetation cover to prevent the extinc- Forest, represents potential habitat for many fauna species tion of these species and communities. (Sites 29 – 34 and 36). Species with a moderate to high likelihood of occurring include the nationally significant Key ecological sensitivities identified along the pipeline Swift Parrot, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Heath Mouse, corridor within the bioregion include: Southern Brown Bandicoot, and several threatened wood- • Red Gum/South Australian Blue Gum Grassy land birds, including Flame Robin, Brown Treecreeper and Woodland associated with Morambro Creek Hooded Robin. In addition,the following state-significant • isolated SA Blue Gum and Red Gum stands and individ- species – Swamp Antechinus, Silky Mouse, Chestnut- uals rumped Heathwren,Tree Goanna, Southern Emu-wren, • Mallee remnants,mainly on roadsides,and Western Pygmy-possum and Yellow-tailed Black- • primary groundwater discharge locations supporting Cockatoo – are likely to occur, based on the presence of Halosarcia/Melaleuca shrubland communities. preferred habitat. Flora Brolga have also been recorded in this bioregion. The Major Floristic Communites recorded along the pipeline pipeline corridor passes within 100m of three degraded corridor in this bioregion are: wetlands in grazing land, which may represent potential • Eucalyptus leucoxylon ± E. fasciculosaWoodland (V) Brolga habitat, but avoids them by remaining on high • Eucalyptus arenacea Woodland on deep leached sands

83 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• Eucalyptus diversifolia ± E. incrassata Mallee Red-necked Wallaby (NPW) may occur at Site 57, and • Eucalyptus socialis ± E. dumosa ± E. gracilis Mallee (D), may forage at Sites 49 and 51, which contain open pastures and and have cover available nearby, in Grass Tree and • Halosarcia pergranulata ± H. halocnemoides ± Melaleuca Padthaway conservation parks. halmaturorum Saline Shrubland. Moderate to high quality Mallee roadside vegetation Two rare plant species were recorded in roadside Mallee: occurs at Sites 52, 58, 60 and 61, and may support many Melaleuca wilsonii (Site 58) and Eucalyptus behriana (Site 63). significant vagrant species (including the state significant Other rare or threatened species recorded on databases Striped Honeyeater), but is less likely to support resident within 1-5km of the pipeline corridor include the nation- bird species. In addition to road reserves,Site 59 represents ally endangered Acacia enterocarpa,Thelymitra epipactoides, the largest intact stand of Mallee (E. diversifolia/E. gracilis) Prostanthera eurybioides and Caladenia colorata, the nationally along the pipeline corridor, and provides potential habitat vulnerable Olearia pannosa var. pannosa,and the state signif- for the nationally significant Red-lored Whistler,Western icant Eutaxia microphylla var. microphylla, Leucopogon Whipbird, Malleefowl, Hooded Robin and the regionally clelandii, Schoenus laevigatus, Eucalyptus leucoxylon var. mega- significant Southern Scrub-robin. Where a litter-layer or locarpa, Choretrum spicatum, Carex invera invera, Juncus dense heath understorey is present (Site 52, 58 59 and 61), amabilis, Billardiera scandens scandens, Phebalium brachy- regionally significant Common Dunnart, Silky Mouse and phyllum, Zieia veronicea, Brachycome uliginosa and Brachycome Little and Western Pygmy-possums are likely to occur. parvula lissocarpa. Database records indicate sightings of Malleefowl (EPBC, NPW) and Diamond Firetail (NPW) in the Coonalpyn Fauna area,approximately 3km northeast and 3.5km southwest of The field survey identified the following locations within the alignment respectively. the current SEA Gas Project corridor as providing significant or potential habitat: Records of state significant Blue-winged Parrot and • Red Gum/South Australian Blue Gum Grassy Chestnut-rumped Heathwren occur from Woodlands associated with Morambro Creek and road Padthaway/Grass Tree conservation parks,and these species reserves are likely to occur in the adjoining areas (Sites 49, 50 and • isolated South Australian Blue Gums scattered in pastures 51). In addition, road reserves provide recognised habitat • healthy Mallee remnants along roadsides for the Blue-winged Parrot (Sites 46,47 and 48). • old growth Mallee • Halosarcia spp saline shrubland wetlands,and Although the Common Wombat (NPW) occurs in the • general road reserve locations. Swede Flat area (8km southeast of Site 52),there appears to be a low likelihood of this species occurring regularly along The Red Gum/South Australian Blue Gum Grassy the pipeline corridor in this bioregion. Woodland identified at Morambro Creek and in the adjoining road reserve (Site 50) provides potential habitat Murraylands for the nationally significant Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Bush Stone-curlew and Swift Parrot, the state significant The Murray River is the most significant feature of this Koala, Little Lorikeet,Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo and bioregion. The river corridor has been designated as a Painted Button-quail, and the regionally significant Threatened Habitat Area (Kahrimanis et al., 2001) due to Crested Shriketit. Sugar Gliders (NPW) may also occur at its biological significance and degree of human impact. this location. The proposed crossing point is highly modified and there are few ecological values associated with the terrestrial A South Australian Blue Gum Woodland remnant with habitats at proposed drill sites. Adjoining landuse is inten- Banksia ornata and Xanthorrhoea spp understorey occurs on sive agriculture and dairy farming. The adjoining plains are a vegetated dune extending some 250m (Site 57), and extensively cleared and the corridor intersects few potentially supports the bird species listed above. Scattered remnants, which are restricted to roadsides and creeklines. South Australian Blue Gums over pasture (Sites 50, 53-56) Site 74 (Appendix 3) is located in this bioregion. may also be utilised by these bird species, particularly Little Lorikeet, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo and Crested Key ecological sensitivities identified along the pipeline Shriketit. corridor in the Murraylands bioregion include:

84 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

• Roadside Mallee and CallitrisWoodland remnants is unknown, although Trout Cod is now extinct in the • instream and riparian corridor of the Murray River,and South Australian section. • Reedy Creek National Estate values. Mount Lofty Ranges Flora The major Floristic Communities occurring along the The steeply dissected granite terrain of the eastern Mount pipeline route in this bioregion are: Lofty Ranges has been extensively cleared. This area has • Eucalyptus porosa Open Mallee been designated as a Threatened Habitat Area (Kahrimanis • Eucalyptus incrassata +/- E. socialis Mallee (on dune et al., 2001) due to the severe depletion and degradation of ridges) vegetation and habitats. Vegetation remnants along the • Halosarcia Saline Shrubland pipeline corridor (including mature and old growth euca- • Callitris Woodland, which is severely depleted in this lypts) are few and the most common remnants are associ- bioregion,and ated with ephemeral and weakly incised drainage lines. • Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis Woodland, Drainage line vegetation appears secondary and invariably considered threatened in the region and recorded on occurs as sedgeland, dominated by Juncus spp. and Cyperus Reedy Creek within the National Estate area (Site 74). gymnocaulos.

The rare Eucalyptus behriana (NPW) was recorded at Site The western section of the route supports some remnants, 74. Other rare and threatened species recorded on data- albeit fragmented and degraded. bases within 5km of the pipeline corridor are the nationally endangered Prostanthera eurybioides, and the state There is also a high potential for spreading a range of weed significant Eleocharis sphacelata, Lycopus australis, Brachycome species, and the risk imposed by Phytophthora spp. or other basaltica gracilis, Ceratophyllum demersum and Hydrilla verticil- pathogens requires further evaluation prior to construction lata and incorporation into appropriate management procedures.

Fauna Sites 67-73 (Appendix 3) are located in this bioregion. Within the pipeline corridor in this bioregion, significant fauna species may occur in restricted habitats associated Key ecological sensitivities identified along the pipeline with Mallee and Callitris Woodlands,the Reedy Creek area corridor within the Mount Lofty Ranges bioregion or the Murray River. include: • newly identified Carex bichenoviana community at The Striped Honeyeater (NPW) may potentially occur Milendella Creek within mixed Mallee eucalypt communities (E. socialis/E. • significant road reserve vegetation,and incrassata),which are found on dune ridges. • woodlands, particularly Manna Gum Woodlands associated with Mt Crawford Forests. Site 74 includes Reedy Creek and patches of Mallee largely confined to gneissic (metamorphic rock) outcrops. Flora The Mallee understorey is dominated by Lomandra effusa Many plant communities within the Mount Lofty Ranges and significant species likely to occur in this ecosystem are considered threatened (Robertson 1998). While include the Dwarf Galaxias (EPBC,FFG) and the Southern avoiding major remnants through the western Ranges, the Bell Frog (EPBC, FFG, NPW). However, although dense pipeline route potentially traverses patches of the following cover of instream vegetation is consistent with species Floristic Communities: habitat requirements, poor water quality,the effects of live- • Eucalyptus fasciculosa ± E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis stock grazing and shallow summer flows may preclude the Woodland (V) presence of such species. • Enneapogon – Stipa – Paspalidium Grassland (most likely a former Grassy Woodland formation) (V) The Murray River potentially supports many significant • Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Woodland (V),and fish species. Commonly occurring species include Silver • Eucalyptus porosa Woodland (E) (essentially an Adelaide Perch, River Blackfish and Southern Pygmy Perch. The plains community,but reaches the lower western slopes status of the Murray Hardyhead, Freshwater Catfish and of the Mount Lofty Ranges). Short-headed Lamprey in the lower reaches of the Murray

85 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

In addition, a new sward of Carex bichenoviana has been State Forest. Although one sighting of the Orange-bellied recorded during field surveys at Milendella Creek (Site 73). Parrot (EPBC, NPW) is recorded 6km southwest of the This sward appears to be a remnant of a former lower pipeline corridor, the region does not contain preferred slopes and valley floor sedge woodland. This vegetation has habitat for this species. not been previously documented in regional surveys (Ann Prescott pers. comm.; Robertson, 1998) and to date, its Records of state significant waterbird species, including conservation status remains uncertain. Great Crested Grebe, Australasian Shoveler and Musk Duck, are primarily associated with either the Barossa or No rare or threatened plants were recorded at sites along Warren Reservoirs (approximately 3km from the align- the pipeline corridor. The nationally endangered ment). Prostanthera eurybioides (EPBC) is known from granite outcrops in the region. A number of other threatened Northern Adelaide Plains species are known from within Hale Conservation Park This bioregion is highly urbanised in comparison to the and other areas of intact vegetation in the region,including previous ecological and rural regions. Grassy Woodlands the nationally endangered Prostanthera eurybioides,Caladenia were once extensive on the Northern Adelaide Plains. behrii, Caladenia rigida and Pterostylis aff. nana – Hale, the However, these have been cleared to allow grazing and nationally vulnerable Prasophyllum pallidum, Corybas agriculture and more recently, urbanisation. Eucalyptus dentatus and Glycine latrobeana and the state significant porosa was a former dominant of these woodlands, inter- species Correa eburnea, Deyeuxia minor, Baumea gunnii, mixed with areas of E. camaldulensis and E. largiflorens on Aristida personata, Aristida australis, Crassula peduncularis, streamsides or poorly drained sites. Most were charac- Diuris behrii, Isolepis stellata, Prasophyllum constrictum, terised by grassy understoreys and where remaining, these Prasophyllum fecundum, Prasophyllum pruinosum, Stipa brevig- grassy ecosystems are considered Endangered (Kirkpatrick lumis, Acacia iteaphylla, Prostanthera chlorantha, Phebalium et al., 1996). Sites 78-88 (Appendix 3) are located in this hillebrandii, Cardamine paucijunga, Mentha diemenica, Ptilotus bioregion. erubescens, Eucalyptus viminalis viminalis, Sphaerolobium minus and Helichrysum rutidolepis. At the coastline adjacent to Barker Inlet, the pipeline corridor crosses the zone of reclaimed wetlands and salt Fauna evaporation ponds. Barker Inlet, including the eastern The Red-necked Wallaby (NPW) potentially occurs section of Torrens Island, supports extensive Mangrove and throughout the region. It was detected at Mount Crawford Samphire communities. (near Site 70) and is likely to occur at Site 69,where Manna Gum forest over pasture adjoins pine forest, and at Key ecological sensitivities identified along the pipeline Milendella Creek (Site 73). corridor within the Northern Adelaide Plains include: • remnant vegetation on roadsides Manna Gum and Red Gum Grassy Woodland at Site 70 • Roadside Significant Sites (RSS), as identified by may also support feeding Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Transport SA (NPW) and potentially Koala (NPW) populations. • wetlands (Samphire Lowland Shrublands) and salt fields However, the watercourse is more likely to provide a adjacent Barker Inlet,and dispersal corridor for Koala,rather than resident habitat. • reclaimed and reinstated wetland environments.

National and state significant bird species recorded in this Flora bioregion are closely associated with Hale and Sandy The floristic communities recorded along the route in this Creek conservation parks,and include Striped Honeyeater, bioregion include: Blue-breasted Fairy-wren,Blue-winged Parrot and Bassian • E. porosa Grassy Woodland (E) Thrush. Diamond Firetail (NPW), Black-chinned • E. camaldulensis Grassy Woodland (E) Honeyeater (NPW) and Crested Shriketit are likely to • E. largiflorens Grassy Woodland (E) regularly occur at Sites 69 and 70 and in the Olive-infested • Stipa ssp. Grassland (D) River Red Gum Woodland associated with Lyndoch • Wetland Mosaic associated with constructed wetlands Creek (Site 68). The Painted Button-quail (NPW) is also (not threatened) likely to occur within diverse understorey of the E. fascicu- • Sarcocornia – Sclerostegia Samphire Shrubland (not threat- losa – E. viminalis Woodland adjoining Mount Crawford ened),and

86 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

• Avicennia marina var. resinifera Mangrove Woodland (not crops and has low ecological significance. However, some threatened). areas of ecological sensitivity, where impacts may occur, have been identified along the proposed route. Two sites within the pipeline corridor are listed as Transport SA Roadside Significant Sites (RSS) and contain The following activities have the potential to affect the significant individual trees. RSS 864 contains significant ecological values of the Project area: Eucalyptus camaldulensis trees (Site 82) and RSS 558 • creation of construction access contains significant Eucalyptus largiflorens trees (Site 83). • clear-and-grade operations (creation of the construction right-of-way) Samphire Low Shrublands are listed as reasonably or • trenching (including blasting),and moderately conserved in South Australia (Neagle, 1995). • earthworks associated with creation of associated stock- However, several plant species occurring in these ecosys- piles, laydown or work areas and construction depots (if tems (Site 85) are listed as having vulnerable or unknown required). conservation status. Appropriate management of the Project will be required to Rare or threatened species listed on databases from within prevent a range of impacts to the ecological values of the the vicinity of the pipeline corridor include the nationally region. Such impacts include: vulnerable Halosarcia flabelliformisi on Torrens Island, the • removal of remnant vegetation state-significant Crassula sieberiana (endangered), Stipa • fauna mortality puberula, Eragrostis infecunda, Danthonia tenvior and Stipa • destruction of fauna habitats multispiculis (NPW). • fragmentation of fauna habitats • disruption to critical fauna lifecycle stages Fauna • loss of biodiversity Key fauna locations have been identified from field surveys to • spread of ecological weeds,and include Salt Crystallisation Lagoons of the Penrice Salt Fields • spread of pathogens. (Site 85), Greenfield/Barker Inlet Wetlands (Site 86) and the coastal foreshore of Torrens Island. The wetlands and saltfields A summary of these impacts is provided in the sections are inhabited by a number of bird species during summer,and below, followed by strategies to mitigate these impacts. are utilised by international migratory waders/shorebirds Potential impacts at significant sites are detailed in listed under the CAMBA/JAMBA migratory bird agree- Appendix 3. ments. The coastal foreshore of Torrens Island has supported a number of state significant bird species, including Fairy Removal of Remnant Vegetation Tern, Pacific Gull, Pied Oystercatcher, Eastern Curlew, The pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid the need Glossy Ibis and White-necked Heron. to clear significant areas of remnant vegetation. However, the corridor does encounter some areas of remnant vege- The Adelaide area formerly supported good numbers of tation, particularly when crossing road reserves. Although Orange-bellied Parrots (EPBC, NPW) (Higgins, 1999). the final alignment (and methods used for crossing road The most recent record of an Orange-bellied Parrot from reserves, as shown in Figure 9-1) will be designed to avoid the Adelaide area was collected in 1999 from the or minimise remnant vegetation removal, some clearing Onkaparinga River (Jon Starks, Birds Australia, pers. may be required for the preparation of a safe construction comm.). Although preferring habitat of coastal salt- area. The direct loss of vegetation will occur on the marshes, and adjacent grasslands and shrublands (such as construction right-of-way, which is normally 25m, but Barker Inlet Sarcocornia – Sclerostegia Samphire Shrubland,) can be reduced to 15m. The potential also exists for the the species now appears to be an infrequent visitor to the loss of vegetation on associated work areas if they are not Adelaide area (low-moderate likelihood of occurrence). appropriately located. Vegetation removal also has the potential to cause localised loss of rare or threatened plants. 9.3 Potential Impacts The field survey indicates that less than 1km (in total) of The vast majority of the proposed pipeline route passes the remnant vegetation likely to be impacted by the through cleared land,which carries introduced pasture and pipeline is substantially intact. A further 1km of slashed

87 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR heath in Roseneath State Forest (Site 31) along an existing The location of the pipeline corridor (in mainly cleared power line easement may also be impacted. land) and the selection of the final alignment will ensure that there will be no clearing of remnant old growth Grasslands have been identified as a particular issue. The Eucalypts. proposed corridor crosses five locations in Victoria where native grasslands,in varying condition,have been identified At watercourse crossings, direct impact to aquatic and (Sites 11,12,14,15 and 22). Impacts to these grasslands will riparian habitats may result from physical damage during be minimal, as they will either be avoided (using tech- earthworks. Indirect impacts may occur to downstream niques such as boring under roadside remnants) or habitats as a result of the mobilisation of sediments and the minimised (by restricting the right-of-way to 15m where subsequent increase in turbidity and sedimentation. The practicable and selecting the alignment to avoid main areas pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid direct impacts of native grasses). to wetland habitats.

Fauna mortality Fragmentation of fauna habitats Due to the disturbed nature of the Project area, and the Fragmentation is a potential issue inherent in all linear resultant low density of native fauna, the risks associated development projects. The pipeline has the potential to with mortality due to machinery operation or collision fragment remnant woodland, grasslands or vegetation with vehicles are likely to be low. However, some species corridors associated with roads or watercourses. may be encountered in trenching or grading operations, notably the Striped Legless Lizard (EPBC, FFG, NPW). The pipeline avoids almost all areas of remnant woodland While potential habitats will be surveyed for the presence within the Project area. The most substantial section of of this species and the alignment will be refined where woodland traversed is the Roseneath State Forest south of practicable, there is a low possibility it may be encountered Dergholm. This area will be traversed using existing ease- in degraded pasture, where trenching and grading opera- ments, thus avoiding the need to create new habitat frag- tions have the potential to cause some mortality. mentation. It is expected that the Project will not cause a long-term barrier to wildlife movement subsequent to The most likely direct effect on fauna is entrapment in the construction and rehabilitation. open trench. It is possible that small mammals, reptiles and amphibians may fall into the trench and either perish Localised fragmentation of grassland habitats may occur. through shock, as prey for larger animals (for example cats Any barrier effect or fragmentation of habitat is most likely or raptors) or be buried beneath backfill. to occur on a local scale, affecting local populations of small,ground dwelling mammals,reptiles and amphibians. Destruction of fauna habitats Due to the extent of historical clearing and the pipeline The pipeline crosses numerous linear vegetation corridors corridor selection process, any destruction of remnant associated with road reserves and watercourses. These fauna habitats will be minor and restricted to a local scale. features provide valuable links between larger habitat areas Habitat destruction is largely related to vegetation removal and pathways for the movement of fauna. The potential (see above). The main habitat types that may be impacted exists to fragment these corridors during pipeline are isolated trees, disturbed woodland at the edge of construction. existing easements, grassland areas and aquatic habitats (watercourses). The fragmentation of habitats may also increase access by introduced predators such as the Red Fox and Feral Cat. A number of fauna species are dependent on remnant trees as nesting, breeding and foraging habitat, particularly old Disruption to critical fauna lifecycle stages growth Red Gum, South Australian Blue Gum (known as The presence and activity of construction equipment and Yellow Gum in Victoria), and Brown Stringy Bark personnel may impact critical lifecycle stages of some remnants. These remnants occur either as stands or isolated species. For example, prolonged or unusual noise or trees. The area between Casterton and Naracoorte is activity may discourage the use of local habitats for particularly important in this regard where old growth breeding. Species of conservation significance such as the Eucalypts provide important habitats for species such as the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo or the Brolga have the poten- Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, which utilise tree hollows. tial to be disrupted by construction activities in this

88 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology manner. Red-tailed Black Cockatoos breed between Spread of Pathogens October and May,nesting within 2km of suitable feeding Two plant diseases are of particular ecological importance habitat. Males leave the nest to forage during the fledgling in the Project area:Phytophthora and Mundulla Yellows. period and return in the evenings to provide food for females and/or young. Brolga (FFG,NPW) breed between Phytophthora cinnamomi is a soil-borne organism that causes July and December,in freshwater meadows or marshes,and root rot of exotic and native plants. Infection often results flock to more permanent water from late December to in the death of the plant, with early symptoms including May. wilting, yellowing and retention of dried foliage, and dark- ening of young feeder roots and occasionally the larger Loss of biodiversity roots. Phytophthora cinnamomi requires moist soil conditions Significant species and communities can be affected by the and warm temperatures to be active, but damage caused by direct loss during clearing activities. Indirect consequences the disease most often occurs in summer when plants are include the loss of biodiversity through weed invasion, soil drought stressed. Phytophthora grows through the root erosion,altered light,hydrological or ecological conditions. destroying the tissue, which is then unable to absorb water For example, old growth Red Gums are relied on by many and nutrients. Zoospores are produced in sporangia, nationally significant bird species for feeding, breeding and particularly when the soil is moist and warm, and are nesting. A significant loss of such values may potentially released into the soil. Consequently zoospore numbers can affect local,regional or even statewide biodiversity. build up quite rapidly. Zoospores move in water and may infect neighbouring plants, especially those down slope Spread of ecological weeds from a site of infection. These spores are easily transported This discussion focuses on ecological weeds, which are in run-off water, in contaminated soil and on earthmoving introduced plant species that are invasive in remnant vege- equipment,tools,footwear and vehicles. tation. Agricultural weeds are discussed in Section 11. Most of the bioregions along the pipeline route are consid- The spread of weeds is an inherent problem for linear proj- ered as moderate risk areas for Phytophthora. The Mount ects. Weeds may be spread within regions into nearby sites Lofty Ranges are regarded as a high-risk area, and the formerly free of the species or over a long distance between Murraylands low risk. regions. Mundulla Yellows is a condition affecting native vegetation Examples of problematic weed flora include: around southern Australia. It affects eucalypts and a range • Nassella spp. (Needle-grasses and Serrated Tussock) on of other native species, and occurs in both young and old the Volcanic Plains are progressively eliminating native trees. Symptoms are yellowing of foliage,starting at the leaf grassland remnants throughout the region. There is a tips, followed by foliage loss. Affected trees often resprout high potential for these to spread to unaffected sites and from epicormic buds, and this foliage is also yellow. Trees other regions. exhibiting these symptoms have never been observed to • Myrsiphyllum asparagoides (Bridal Creeper), an exotic recover full health, and often die. The cause of Mundulla climber with a very broad range, is currently a major Yellows remains unknown, although a transmissible agent weed of Mallee communities on the Siliceous and such as a phytoplasma,viroid,virus or bacteria is suspected. Calcareous Sand Plains. The methods of transmission are not understood, but may • Olea europea (Olive) and Marrubium vulgare (Horehound) involve a vector such as an insect, although the possibility are major weeds of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Although of transmission through soil,water or contact with infected Olives are already widely spread by birds and foxes, both plant material have not been discounted. weed species can be readily dispersed by machinery. The spread of these diseases into non-contaminated areas Potential impacts of the spread of ecological weeds include: has the potential to cause damage to remnant native vege- • inhibition of regeneration of indigenous species on the tation. disturbed site, forming a longer term, perhaps permanent,weed cover,and • invasion of adjoining, non-disturbed vegetation, particularly by species not currently present.

89 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

9.4 Impact Mitigation Objective The principal management object is to minimise adverse impacts to the ecological values of the Project area.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 7.a To appropriately minimise and manage impacts to the ecological values of the Project area 7.b To appropriately rehabilitate the easement to pre-construction condition, as reasonably practical Operation 24.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to ecological values of the easement 24.b To appropriately monitor rehabilitation of the easement *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 7.1 To minimise and where practicable avoid clearing of remnant vegetation 7.2 To keep fauna fatalities to as low as possible 7.3 To avoid destruction of significant fauna habitats 7.4 To minimise and where practicable avoid fragmentation of fauna habitats 7.5 To minimise disruption to critical fauna lifecycle stages 7.6 To minimise loss of biodiversity 7.7 To avoid the spread of environmental and proclaimed weeds 7.8 To undertake appropriate actions to destroy environmental and proclaimed weeds 7.9 To avoid the spread of animal and plant pathogens, by undertaking practicable control and prevention procedures, and undertaking remediation works where required Operation 24.1 To avoid clearing of remnant vegetation 24.2 To avoid the spread of environmental and proclaimed weeds 24.3 To avoid the spread of pathogens 24.4 To effectively monitor rehabilitation of the easement *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

90 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

Regional Goals In addition to the more general goals outlined above, the following regional-specific goals apply. These address the key ecological sensitivities identified for each bioregion.

Bioregion Goal Coastal South- • To avoid or minimise the loss and fragmentation of roadside remnants western Victoria • To minimise the loss of Swamp Gums from roadside remnants and streamside corridors • To avoid impacts to in-stream environments of Curdies and Hopkins Rivers, where practicable Volcanic Plains • To avoid impacts to Plains Grassland and Matted Flax-lily populations, where practicable • To avoid significant impacts to Curly Sedge population at Breakfast Creek • To identify and utilise the least sensitive route through the Harman Valley Volcanics Dundas • To avoid undue removal of Red Gums (or other indigenous eucalypts), where practicable Tablelands • To avoid impacts to Common Tussock Grass grassland south of McCrae Creek, where practicable • To prevent significant impacts to in-stream values of the Glenelg River Wimmera Plains • To avoid clearing old growth eucalypts • To minimise clearing of Red Gums and Yellow Gums (South Australian Blue Gums) • To minimise impacts to the Damp Heath Woodland ecosystem (Roseneath State Forest) Southern Mallee • To avoid clearing old growth eucalypts • To minimise impacts to roadside Mallee remnants • To protect soil stability in dune systems Murraylands • To avoid impacts on the in-stream habitat of the Murray River • To avoid impacts where practicable, or to minimise adverse effects, to Lomandra effusa Grassland • To minimise impacts on downstream National Estate values associated with the Reedy Creek area Mount Lofty • To avoid impacts to good quality remnants of threatened plant communities Ranges • To minimise impacts to indigenous vegetation • To prevent the spread of weeds and disease as result of construction related activities Northern • To avoid impacts on significant vegetation Adelaide Plains • To minimise impacts to areas of significant but artificial habitat (i.e. constructed wetlands and salt ponds) known to support migratory and resident shorebirds • Minimise impacts to the Samphire – Mangrove Complex in Barker Inlet and Torrens Island

Mitigation Measures • integrate site specific management strategies into the Mitigation measures will follow the procedures outlined Construction Environmental Management Plan below. Potential approaches for ecologically sensitive sites (Construction Environmental Management Plan) identified during the field survey are listed in Appendix 3. • work in consultation with the Victorian Department of As indicated, some of these sites will require further survey Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) and the and refinement of mitigation strategies during the detailed South Australian Department for Environment and design stage, to ensure that impacts are avoided or limited Heritage (DEH) to obtain necessary approvals for vege- to an acceptable level. tation clearing ,and • work in close liaison with DNRE, DEH and Primary General Industries and Resources South Australia (PIRSA) To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: regarding the management of ecological issues. • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA Code Remnant Vegetation • conduct further survey work during the detailed engi- To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: neering phase at optimum survey times (for example • in areas containing remnant vegetation, select the final spring surveys in grasslands) as input to the final align- alignment with input from suitably qualified ecologists, ment and management strategies and in consultation with DNRE or DEH officers, with

91 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

the aim of minimising and where practicable avoiding • immediately prior to clear-and-grade operations, clearing remnant vegetation (for example by utilising employ a qualified ecologist to flag areas of reduced existing easements or gaps in vegetation) right-of-way and trees to be trimmed or retained • where practicable,drill or bore under significant roadside • implement protocols for mitigating impacts of tree or vegetation (in accordance with Figure 9-1) hollow branch removal • carry out surveys prior to construction at optimal times • incorporate education of construction workers on the (for example, spring) to check sensitive sites for rare or value of grasslands into the Construction Environmental threatened plants, and use the results of these surveys to Management Plan develop avoidance or mitigation strategies,such as modi- • develop and implement site specific rehabilitation proce- fying pipeline alignment, marking or fencing plants to dures to reduce the duration of potential impact, to be avoid damage, or developing salvaging or propagation developed in consultation with landholders, regulatory protocols agencies and other key stakeholders • restrict disturbance to the 25m right-of-way and desig- • comply with the DNRE net gain policy,and nated work areas • offset loss of native vegetation by carrying out suitable • reduce the right-of-way to 15m in areas of higher revegetation,in consultation with DNRE or DEH. ecological significance (such as selected roadside reserves, grasslands and watercourse crossings) as deter- Avoiding Fauna Mortality mined by the ecological assessment (Appendix 3) and by To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: consultation with DNRE and DEH • in areas of higher ecological sensitivity, construct the • trim branches that overhang the right-of-way rather than trench in shorter sections with ramps (or slopes) at each remove complete trees, whilst ensuring that safe access is end to facilitate fauna escape maintained • minimise the period for which the pipeline trench is • indicate areas of reduced right-of-way on the Alignment open (no more than one week in areas of higher ecolog- Diagrams ical significance)

Figure 9-1: Road Crossing Impact Mitigation Decision Tree

92 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 9: Ecology

• employ specialist fauna monitors to inspect the open • significant trees (for example hollow bearing or old trench each morning in areas of ecological sensitivity growth Eucalypts) will be flagged for avoidance. (animals trapped in the trench will be recovered, recorded and relocated),and Critical fauna lifecycle stages • develop appropriate protocols for dealing with signifi- To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: cant fauna populations that may be discovered during • where practicable, in areas of higher ecological signifi- construction. cance avoid construction during breeding periods for significant species Significant habitats • where threatened bird species have been identified in To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: roadside locations, vegetation will be cleared outside of • in areas containing remnant vegetation, select the final breeding periods alignment with input from suitably qualified ecologists, • where the above is not practicable,in key areas construc- and in consultation with DNRE or DEH/PIRSA tion will be organised to: Officers with the aim of minimising and where practi- • minimise the duration of activities cable avoiding destroying significant habitats • minimise the size of the workforce • avoid clearing old growth trees,particularly Eucalypts • utilise the minimum amount of construction equip- • avoid communities listed under State and Commonwealth ment,and legislation (for example,Plains Grassland) • select the most appropriate construction equipment • select watercourse crossing locations at existing clearances or areas of degraded riparian vegetation, where Biodiversity practicable Biodiversity issues are covered by those actions proposed to • select a watercourse crossing method that minimises minimise loss of vegetation and disturbance to fauna habi- impacts to significant in-stream habitats (see Section 7) tats and lifecycles. • minimise sediment impacts to downstream habitats by incorporating site specific management strategies into Spread of ecological weeds the Construction Environmental Management Plan, To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: which may include controls on timing,duration and flow • conduct a pre-construction survey of weed species conditions of watercourse crossings and the use of sedi- • develop a comprehensive weed management procedure, ment fencing,geotextile fabric and silt curtains,and detailing site specific requirements for: • develop and implement site specific rehabilitation proce- • pre-construction controls (such as spraying) dures to reduce the duration of potential impact that • quarantine requirements utilise local species where indigenous vegetation is • machinery,vehicle and personnel hygiene measures present. • wash down of construction machinery at appropriate frequency Habitat fragmentation • records management To mitigate potential impacts, in addition to those actions • monitoring proposed to minimise vegetation removal above, SEA Gas • post-construction control,and will: • incorporate the weed management procedures into the • select an alignment with input from suitably qualified Construction Environmental Management Plan. ecologists, and in consultation with DNRE or DEH officers that: Spread of pathogens • maximises the use of existing gaps in vegetation corri- To mitigate potential impacts,SEA Gas will: dors • conduct a pre-construction survey for Phytophthora and • utilises existing disturbed areas or easements through symptoms of Mundulla Yellows in high risk areas the vegetation rather than create new fragmentation • develop a comprehensive pathogen management proce- • aims to minimise impacts associated with fragmenta- dure,that details site specific requirements for: tion • quarantine requirements • reduce right-of-way width to 15m through sensitive • machinery,vehicle and personnel hygiene measures areas (for example,native grassland) • records management • where practicable, drill or bore under significant vegeta- • monitoring tion corridors,and • post-construction control,and

93 Chapter 9: Ecology SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• incorporate the pathogen management procedures into the Construction Environmental Management Plan.

9.5 Conclusion

The vast majority of the proposed pipeline corridor passes through cleared land. It avoids large remnants of native vegetation and areas proclaimed for flora and fauna conservation. A number of key ecological sensitivities and potential impacts have been identified in each of the bioregions crossed by the pipeline corridor. Regional-specific goals for impact mitigation have been developed to address these issues, and strategies for mitigation outlined. The adoption of these mitigation strategies will reduce potential adverse impacts on flora and fauna to an acceptable level.

94 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage

10 Cultural Heritage

SEA Gas acknowledges the importance of the cultural The SEA Gas Project proposes to traverse two Victorian heritage values of the Project area to the community and and five South Australian Aboriginal communities identi- is committed to their protection. It recognises that appro- fied under the Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait priate management of the Project is required to avoid or Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984. Victorian communi- mitigate a range of impacts to indigenous and historical ties consulted include Framlingham Aboriginal Trust and cultural heritage. Such impacts may include: the Kerrup-Jmara Elders Aboriginal Corporation. South • damage to surface artefact scatters Australian communities consulted include Kaurna • damage to subsurface cultural material, and Meyunna Inc, Kungari Aboriginal Cultural Heritage • damage to culturally significant vegetation. Association, Mannum Aboriginal Community Association, Ngarrindjeri Heritage Committee and However, SEA Gas is confident that by working closely Tattyara Aboriginal Heritage. with regulatory agencies and community representatives and with the application of appropriate impact avoidance Three native title claims are intersected by the Project. and mitigation strategies, all potential adverse effects to the The native title claimants are the Gournditch-Mara cultural heritage of the Project area can be reduced to an (Victoria) the Ngarrindjeri and others (South Australia), acceptable level. and the Kaurna Peoples (South Australia).

This Chapter broadly describes the indigenous and histor- At the time of writing, the Project was under discussion ical heritage setting of the Project area, identifies potential within the Ngarrindjeri Heritage Committee (associated impacts and outlines proposed avoidance and mitigation with the Culburra to Murray River region). A strategies. Memorandum of Understanding exists with the Ngarrindjeri and Others Native Title Claim, and it is likely that future surveys will be undertaken jointly. 10.1 Indigenous Heritage Additional consultation and fieldwork is also required 10.1.1 Existing Environment with the Kaurna Meyunna community.

The SEA Gas Project area has been divided into eight Consultation with all these groups will be a comprehen- bioregions. These are based on landforms encompassing a sive and ongoing process. Copies of all archaeological combination of environmental parameters that were reports and findings have been sent to the relevant groups likely to have influenced particular Aboriginal economies for their records. and settlement patterns (such as vegetation, habitat, topography and the nature of surface water). The bioregions are Literature Review and Field Survey described in Section 5.1. The pipeline corridor traverses a number of regions that have been the subject of detailed research. Investigations The indigenous cultural heritage setting of the Project undertaken for various development projects also provide area is broadly discussed in the following sections. The information on the archaeology of some areas. A compi- information is based on a combination of available litera- lation of these sources, together with unpublished literature, the results of Project specific consultation, predictive ture, provides a comprehensive background for the Project modelling and field survey as described below. area.

Consultation A preliminary survey (Wood, 2001) was also undertaken Consultation associated with the Aboriginal archaeologi- for the SEA Gas Project to consolidate background and cal and anthropological assessment of the SEA Gas Project desktop research, with particular reference to key areas of was undertaken with State Government authorities, archaeological sensitivity. The field survey was carried out including Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and Department of with representatives from local Aboriginal community State Aboriginal Affairs, South Australia, and local organisations, and covered approximately 9% of the Aboriginal organisations. pipeline route. The survey strategy was developed based

95 Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage SEA Gas Project EER/EIR on a number of factors, including the availability of repre- Summary of Existing Conditions sentatives from appropriate Aboriginal heritage groups, Indigenous archaeological sites within the Project area are land access, and the timing of the survey in relation to the likely to have been impacted through widespread land “firmness” of the alignment within the corridor. (Section clearance, a prolonged history of agricultural land practices 5.2.2 outlines the iterative nature by which the pipeline and rural and urban development. Despite this, a broad alignment is selected.The cultural heritage survey is a key range and a large number of sites have been recorded factor in influencing the alignment.) throughout the pipeline corridor. Site types most likely to be encountered, in association with likely landforms (pre- Further consultation and survey work will be carried out dictive model), are presented in Table 10-1 and include: prior to construction and at sensitive sites during con- • earthen mound sites struction, as discussed in Section 10.1.3. • quarries • scarred trees Predictive Modelling • burials The current aim of this assessment is to present a predic- • isolated artefacts tive model, which indicates the likely distribution of sites • stone fish traps within regions. The model is based on landform units, • stone artefact scatters and campsites with each unit defined by a suite of environmental • stone arrangements – domestic parameters. Such parameters are likely to have influenced • middens, and the types, distribution and utilisation of resources, includ- • art sites ing the availability of water, shelter, raw materials and suitable camping locations. This model has been developed Survey Results by previous research and is tested by the results of the Numerous areas within the Project area are considered to current survey. be of high archaeological sensitivity. In addition to a number of previously recorded sites, three new sites have The reliability of such a model varies according to the been recorded within the current corridor. These sites are degree of current archaeological knowledge or sampling shown in Maps 4-11. The following discussion includes potential. In areas that have been subjected to detailed general introduction to indigenous ethnographic and his- studies (such as Condah Swamp and Murray River), there torical background of each region, in addition to findings can be a high degree of confidence in the accuracy of the of preliminary survey results. predictions of site distribution. In contrast, for areas such as the Southern Mallee, where previous studies are few, Coastal Southwestern Victoria there is insufficient site data to discern patterns in the Early observations of the land and its people depict abun- archaeological record. Sites not necessarily homogeneous dant game, fish and bird life, exploited by Aboriginal with subsistence (for example ceremonial grounds) may groups through broad ranging and integrated economies. lie outside this model as they cannot always be predicted The diversity and reliability of resources provided for a with any degree of accuracy, particularly as they may be degree of sedentism and the maintenance of semi-perma- located in areas selected to fulfil requirements other than nent “villages”. Swamp habitats, in particular, were recog- conventional physiographic or environmental settings. nised as foci for Aboriginal exploitation and settlement (Hugh Donnelly, in Cusack, 1999b, p7). It is evident that In addition, present day patterns of site distribution may the region supported Aboriginal populations approaching not accurately reflect the full range or location of those of the most densely populated parts of Australia Aboriginal archaeological sites due to the differential (Lourandos, 1977, p219). destruction of archaeological remains resulting through landscape processes or modification (Byrne, 1983). A number of sites proximate to the existing Iona – Portland pipeline have previously been located (Wood and The reliability of any model is also tested and improved by Lance, 1990) and can be used to complement the current the survey of areas perceived to have low archaeological sen- survey. Wood and Lance (1990) recorded no sites along sitivity. This ensures that the assumptions used to construct this length of corridor. the predictive model are correct. As part of the SEA Gas Project, field-testing was undertaken in such areas and No sites were recorded during the preliminary survey throughout the range of landforms within any given region. (Wood, 2001). However, several locations are considered

96 Table 10-1: Common Site Types E a rjc E/I hpe 0 Cultural Heritage Chapter10: EER/EIR SEA GasProject Site Type Description Landform Earthen mound Characterised by a mounded accumulation of dark, charcoal rich Invariably occupy elevated ground on the edges of flood plains, lakes and sites sediment often containing artefactual and faunal material and swamp margins. Associated with poorly drained soils inherent in these occasionally human burials. Circular to oval in plan with typical environments. diameters of between 5 and 15m and less than 1m in height. Often dispersed through ploughing and erosion and occur singularly, paired and clustered. Scarred trees Most commonly River Red Gums though also Black and Grey Box. The distribution of these items has been heavily influenced by land Typically exhibit a symmetrical shape, usually oval or cigar shape. The clearing. Can be found in most landforms though probably in association scar will generally not continue to the ground and the tree will be with habitation areas. Presumably canoes were confined to the proximity of mature, a minimum age of approximately 100 years. larger swamps and watercourses though there is some evidence in the Lower Murray that bark canoes were transported considerable distance to be used along the Murray River. Isolated artefacts Any artefact located more than 50m from the next closest artefact. Occurring within all landforms. Stone artefact May comprise a small number of closely located artefacts or large Well drained locations most notably dune surfaces. Larger sites tend to be scatters and sprawling complexes containing numerous artefacts, reduction floors, located adjacent to resource areas while smaller sites may have been chosen campsites hearths, faunal remains. simply for convenience. Middens Accumulations of faunal material. Most commonly recognised as shell Well drained locations most notably dune surfaces. Occur in coastal and 97 middens. Vary in scale and depth from discrete thin heaps to open inland settings. sprawling complexes. Often poorly preserved through the action of chemical weathering. Quarries Identified by the presence of large quantities of primary flakes and Bedrock geology determines the location and type of stone materials unmodified stone debris. Common materials include flint, silcrete, present. For instance flint outcrops along the southern coastline as both in quartzite, chert, greenstone. Excavated pits may be present or evidence situ nodules within limestone cliffs and as cobble beach deposits, silcrete of flaked surfaces. outcrops in Geriwerd, chert is obtainable from the Murray Basin. Sources such as creekbeds were probably significant sources of material, most notably quartz and quartzite. Burials Isolated bone fragments to broad cemeteries containing numerous These sites generally occur in areas of loose soil, especially dunes or individuals. lunettes. Burials are relatively common within mound sites. May be located within small caves and crevices as found along the Murray River. Stone fish traps Often linear to curved stone walls and may have obvious sluices, weirs Typically found along major river systems, coastal and lagoonal settings. and gates. May have been supported by timber sections with woven traps placed across weirs and gates. Stone arrangements Semi-circular stone walls measuring 3-5m in diameter and 40cm in Found within the volcanic plains of south western Victoria and occasionally – domestic height. Presumably capped with covered bough structure forming in close association with fish traps. shelter. Occur in clusters, individually or in extensive complexes. Art sites Painted ochre motifs or engraved surfaces. Stylistic differences are noted Painted art invariably occurs in shelters or caves where preservation in between regions. enhanced. Engravings occur on covered and exposed rock faces. Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage SEA Gas Project EER/EIR to have potentially high sensitivity, most notably the line reserve. It has been assumed that although the land- Curdies and Hopkins river crossings. Port Campbell forms are sensitive, levels of disturbance are likely to have Creek has also been identified as having potentially high impacted on the preservation of any materials. sensitivity (Ecos, 1998). Based on the results of the current survey, as well as previous findings, the remaining sections No new sites were recorded during the preliminary sur- of corridor in this landform are deemed to be of general- vey (Wood, 2001). ly low sensitivity. Dundas Tablelands Volcanic Plains This region incorporates the traditional lands of the The record of Aboriginal occupation within this region is northwestern clans of the Dhauwurd, the western clans of defined largely by two site types: mounds, and stone the Jardwadjali and the eastern Buandig (Clarke, 1990). The houses or hut bases. These sites not only represent signifi- corridor north of Casterton approximates the boundaries cant levels of occupation, but an adaptive technology aimed of these last two groups. at exploiting the highly productive wetland habitats that proliferate throughout the volcanic plains. Access to these A preliminary pedestrian survey was undertaken in 10 habitats is believed to have supported increased sedentism. sample areas within this unit. Thick pasture cover limited visibility for much of this distance and no Aboriginal sites During the preliminary survey, 43 sample areas were were located (Wood, 2001). investigated, with more detailed survey conducted at eight of these (where survey was not hampered by limited However, the corridor traverses several moderate to ground surface exposure). Various locations throughout highly sensitive areas, most notably the courses of several this region are of extremely high archaeological substantial creeklines. Elsewhere, the corridor traverses a sensitivity. Such areas include: dissected tableland setting of high ridges and steep slopes, • Merri River crossing (though the previously recorded which is generally considered of low archaeological sensi- site on the eastern bank of the Merri River lies outside tivity. There was no evidence of Aboriginal scarring asso- the proposed corridor) ciated with large (old) gums within the survey areas. • Lake Cartcarrong • Moyne River crossing Wimmera Plains • the southern edge of Wild Dog Swamp A preliminary pedestrian survey was undertaken of 19 • an area of swampy basins (stony rises), between Back sample areas between Casterton and Dergholm and, simi- Creek and the Shaw River lar to other regions, ground surface visibility was limited • a large site complex located along the Eumeralla River by dense vegetation (Wood, 2001). course, immediately southeast of Macarthur. (This group of sites is particularly significant, as it is represen- Elsewhere in this region, archaeological sensitivity remains tative of the ethno-historically recorded “villages”), and significantly high in a number of locations, particularly: • Louth/Weerangourt/Scott Creek swamps (a major • near the southern boundary of the Wannon River val- branch of the Condah Swamp), where literally hundreds ley. (The sensitivity of this area is highlighted by a of sites have been previously recorded (the proposed group of scarred trees, mound sites and artefact scatters. corridor travels north of the swamp and has the poten- The use of an existing rail reserve does, however, reduce tial to incidentally disturb, damage or in some other way the integrity and sensitivity of this section to some affect, a number of unrecorded sites in this location dur- degree.) ing pipeline construction). • at Deep Creek and Red Cap Creek crossings, and • parallel to Salt Creek, where shallow granite outcrops The corridor has been aligned to avoid known sites in the over a low hill and is likely to collect water within the Louth/Weerangourt/Scott Creek swamp area (such as the course of Salt Creek. Macarthur Area sites which are listed on the Register of the National Estate). Further survey and consultation will One Aboriginal site was recorded during the survey, be carried out to determine an acceptable final alignment. Bangallah Road Site 1. This comprises a scatter of stone artefacts together with fragments of freshwater mussel Immediately west of Branxholme to the Hamilton- shell immediately adjacent the Glenelg River. The extent Dartmoor Road, the corridor parallels an abandoned rail of the site warrants further work and the final alignment

98 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage within this section of the corridor will need to consider No Aboriginal sites were recorded during the brief survey the site (Wood, 2001). from Willalooka to south of Tailem Bend, including a survey undertaken north of Culburra. Archaeological sensi- The eastern portion of the bioregion was inhabited by the tivity in this landform unit is generally low but increases Jardwadjali and the ethnography between Dergholm and markedly around a number of waterholes and skirts the Poolaijelo is largely similar to Dundas Tablelands. A pre- margins of the interdunal swamps (Wood, 2001). liminary pedestrian survey was undertaken at seven locations. A small number of moderately to highly sensitive Murraylands areas were identified. Of particular interest are the mar- The fertile habitats of the Lower Murray, Lakes District gins of several swampy basins and the courses of Mosquito and Coorong are thought to have supported one of Creek and a small tributary (lunette feature) (Wood, Australia’s largest temperate semi-sedentary populations. 2001). The study area extends through the traditional territories of what is now known as the Ngarrindjeri. The term Between Poolaijelo and Naracoorte, six of the 10 sampled Ngarrindjeri incorporates six groups, including the areas were deemed to be of low archaeological sensitivity Nganguruki, Ngaralta, Warki, Portaulun, Jarildekald and the and the remaining four, low to moderate sensitivity. No Ramindjeri, who inhabited the Lower Murray region. The Aboriginal sites were recorded during the survey (Wood, proposed corridor passes through the territory of the 2001). Ngaralta.

Southern Mallee Settlement patterns reflected the seasonal availability of The pipeline corridor will traverse the traditional territo- food resources. In spring and summer,Aboriginal people ries of three groups within this region, the Marditjali, occupied semi-permanent settlements near the river and Potarwutj and Ngarkat (Tindale, 1974). The Marditjali the availability of water allowed the Ngarrindjeri to venture inhabited the western Wimmera Plains, the Potaruwutj1, inland from permanent water sources. However, winter the open plains and ridge country between Naracoorte conditions encouraged semi-sedentism in areas near the and Keith, and the Ngarkat occupied the mallee scrublands lakes at the mouth of the Murray River. Fire-softened belt east of the Murray River to the Victorian border and river red gum bark was commonly used for canoes, and as far south as Keith. many trees exhibit scars (Berndt, 1941; Boehm, 1948).

The area occupied by the Ngarkat appears waterless with The archaeological sensitivity of the Murray River is con- only a few native wells and soaks. The Ngarkat relied sidered to be extremely high. A survey will be undertak- heavily on the water they obtained from the roots of the en east of the Murray River, but had not been carried out red mallee (Eucalyptus oleosa) and the needlebush (Hakea at the time of writing. Based on extrapolation of previous leucoptera) (Gara, 1985, p1-2). According to Tindale (1974, studies (Wood, 2000), archaeological sensitivity of the p215), Ngarkat bands were widely dispersed across their western region is generally low. The predominant land “tribal” territory,constantly shifting camp from one grove use is dairy farming and the irrigated land is highly dis- of mallee trees to the next and hunting kangaroos, wom- turbed. A number of previously recorded sites are located bats, emus and other animals in the scrub. It was only dur- immediately within the vicinity of the pipeline. These ing very dry or drought conditions that the Ngarkat were sites are concentrated on the river bank and become less driven to the big rivers such as the Murray (Tindale 1974, dense further from the river. The location of an appro- p62). It is likely that the Potaruwutji lead a similar nomadic priate horizontal directional drill crossing site will be lifestyle to that of the Ngarkat. selected in consultation with the Ngarrindjeri and will avoid impact to any heritage sites. Limited survey work was conducted between Naracoorte and north of Willalooka, with only 12 areas surveyed, due Five areas were surveyed in the northern alluvial plains. to land access constraints. No Aboriginal sites were No Aboriginal sites were recorded during the survey. recorded. Areas of high sensitivity include Morambro Archaeological sensitivity is generally low but increases Creek and the edges of permanent lagoons and swamps. adjacent to Reedy Creek, despite the lack of cultural Areas of moderate archaeological sensitivity include material (Wood, 2001). several locations near the eastern edge of the Naracoorte Range (Wood, 2001).

1 Potaruwutj translates to ‘wandering’ or ‘travelling men’ (Tindale 1974, p218). 99 Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Mount Lofty Ranges Subsequently further work will be undertaken and incor- The Peramangk group are thought to have occupied the porated into the detailed planning phase. eastern Mount Lofty Ranges to approximately Strathalbyn and Kanmantoo (Tindale, 1974, p217). Tindale (1974, 10.1.2 Potential Impacts p61) noted that the group kept to elevations below about 365m in winter to avoid the cold and wet conditions com- The following activities have the potential to affect the mon at this time of year. Their territory was well-watered cultural heritage values of the Project area: and fertile resulting in little movement to the mallee-cov- • creation of construction access ered limestone flatlands east of the Ranges. There was • clear-and-grade operations some trade between the Ngarrindjeri and the Peramangk, • trenching, and trading items such as red gum bark (canoe-making) and • horizontal directional drilling. whip-stick mallee spears (Tindale, 1974, p60). Provisions under the Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Eight areas were closely inspected in this bioregion. Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 Part 2A, the Archaeological sensitivity is moderate to high in the Victorian Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act vicinity of springs and watercourses and particularly South 1972 and South Australian Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 Para River, Torrens River and Millendella Creek. make it an offence to disturb, deface or damage an Sensitivity reduces markedly in areas of steep terrain Aboriginal object or site without the prior approval of the (Wood, 2001). relevant State regulatory authority, local Aboriginal community or relevant Federal Minister. The following sec- Northern Adelaide Plains tions of legislation outline the penalties for damage to or At the time of European settlement, the Aborigines of the disturbance of an Aboriginal heritage area or object: Kaurna language group inhabited the Adelaide area, com- • Section 2IU(1) of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prising the coastal plains from Port Wakefield to Cape Heritage Protection Act 1984 Jervis and to the western edge of the Mount Lofty Ranges • Section 28 of the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics (Gill 1909; Tindale 1974; but see Lucas 1989, p19 for Preservation Act 1972 alternative boundaries). • Section 44 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988.

The territory of the Kaurna comprised estuarine wetlands, Appropriate management of the Project will prevent or beach fronts, plains and ranges, all of which provided a successfully mitigate potential adverse impacts to the cul- variety of environments and resources. While there is tural heritage values of the region. Such impacts include: conflicting evidence regarding seasonal movement • damage to shallow artefact scatters through the country, many early historical accounts sug- • damage to subsurface material, and gest that the Kaurna occupied the coastal areas in summer • damage to significant vegetation (for example scarred and retreated to the inland during winter (Ellis, 1976, trees). p116; Edwards 1966, p239). Damage to Shallow Artefact Scatters The alluvial plains, coastal fringe and estuary zones of this Earthworks associated with construction activities have bioregion, like the Murray River and coastal areas of the the potential to disturb or damage shallow artefact scat- South East, is a resource-rich ecological zone thought to ters. These earthworks may be associated with either the have supported large numbers of Aboriginal people. The mainline pipeline construction or with incidental or relat- general region is archaeologically sensitive with numerous ed activities such as topsoil removal, trenching, the cre- recorded Aboriginal sites. Sites common to this area ation of access tracks, work areas, stockpiles, drill pads and include earthen mounds, stone artefact scatters/campsites, installation of pipeline infrastructure (for example cath- isolated artefacts and burials. The distribution of these sites odic protection equipment). suggests a concentration of settlement along the coastal fringes and about the major watercourses traversing the Damage to Subsurface Material plains, as well as ephemeral swamps and drainage lines. Trenching operations have the potential to damage previously unrecorded sites. A survey has not been undertaken for this section of the route. The area is of high archaeological sensitivity.

100 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage

Damage to Significant Vegetation Clearing operations, particularly associated with watercourse crossings, have the potential to damage significant vegetation, such as scarred trees.

10.1.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts to the indigenous cultural heritage of the Project area.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 8.a To minimise and manage adverse impacts to the Cultural heritage values of the Project area Operation 25.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to identified Cultural heritage sites *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 8.1 To protect surface and shallow artefact scatters from damage 8.2 To minimise damage to subsurface material 8.3 To avoid damage to culturally significant vegetation 8.4 To avoid damage to built heritage 8.5 To obtain all necessary approvals for unavoidable site disturbance 8.6 To implement appropriate protocols for dealing with cultural heritage material discovered during construction Operation 24.1 To protect surface and shallow artefact scatters from damage 24.2 To avoid damage to culturally significant vegetation 24.3 To implement appropriate protocols for dealing with cultural heritage material discovered during operations *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures Department of State Aboriginal Affairs, local Aboriginal To mitigate potential impacts to indigenous cultural her- community organisations and native title claimants itage, SEA Gas will implement the following measures. regarding the management of cultural heritage issues.

General Pre-construction Survey • consult with local Aboriginal communities throughout • conduct survey work in areas not inspected during the pre-construction and construction works preliminary survey • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA • conduct further analysis of areas of lower sensitivity to Code ensure accuracy of the predictive model • integrate site specific management strategies into the • include heritage sites identified in preliminary or fur- Construction Environmental Management Plan, and ther survey work as “no-go” areas on the Alignment • work in close liaison with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Sheets

101 Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• conduct further assessment of the Louth – Condah 10.2 Historical Heritage swamp areas • consider archaeological test excavations to determine 10.2.1 Existing Environment the presence of sub-surface deposits, at the following locations: Prior to the project commencing Heritage Victoria was • Curdies River notified of survey activities. However, South Australia • Glenelg River does not require prior notification. Heritage Victoria and • Hopkins River Heritage South Australia maintain non-indigenous her- • lunette in the Poolaijelo area itage registers, which were reviewed as part of the desktop • Merri River study. The Register of the National Estate was also • Mosquito Creek reviewed. • Eumerella River • South Para River Overview • Crawford River Small rural townships have represented the focus of early • coastal dunes on Torrens Island, and non-indigenous land use and history, and many can be • Dwyer Creek. considered historical precincts. Whereas landscapes can be seen as being historical artefacts (that is representative of Prevent Damage or Disturbance to Sites of Cultural pastoralism, agriculture and mining etc), the majority of Heritage Significance recorded historical sites lie within township boundaries, • where practicable, select a final alignment within the and subsequently will be avoided. proposed corridor that avoids cultural heritage sites • where lateral alignment changes may not avoid impact, Early colonial settlement was largely governed by the consider boring beneath sites basic needs of food, water and shelter. Other stimuli such • select locations of associated site works (for example the as discoveries of gold, improvements in transport, mapping horizontal directional drill site at the Murray River) of soils (for example, in the wine producing districts) and that avoid impacts to sites the re-settlement of refugees and soldiers, has also greatly • install flagging, protective fencing or erosion control influenced the pattern and style of settlement. The measures to protect sites near the easement, which will pipeline corridor has been divided into five regions in not be directly affected by construction which common historical themes can be identified. • obtain appropriate authorisation for unavoidable site disturbances necessary to permit the construction of the Survey Results pipeline The assessment identified three previously recorded sites • develop appropriate construction management proto- and seven new sites within the immediate area of the cols during the detailed design phase, in consultation pipeline corridor (Wood,2001). The following discussion with affected Aboriginal communities, which may includes a general introduction to the post-indigenous include: history of each region, in addition to the survey findings. • on-site monitoring by representatives from the relevant Aboriginal community in areas of high sensi- Victoria tivity during clear-and-grade and / or trenching Historical sites recorded in the region cover central themes • strategies for assessment of artefact occurrences iden- of early coastal settlement, pastoral expansion, road and rail, tified during construction by experienced / qualified gold, timber and soldier settlement. The Project is unlike- archaeologist ly to disturb historically significant sites recorded in the • site specific management measures general area. However, potential impacts may occur to • strategies for salvage of artefact sites identified during peripheral infrastructure such as road and rail linkages, par- construction, and ticularly as the corridor traverses several former rail ease- • ensure all personnel are adequately aware of the ments (for example, Branxholme-Casterton trunklines). required cultural heritage management procedures. A total of seven new non-indigenous sites were recorded during the survey to occur within the corridor. Six sites are associated with a railway, while the seventh is a road bridge.

102 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage

Wimmera Plains and Southern Mallee mills were established in various towns, such as Mount Pastoralists occupied the southeast border districts as early Pleasant (1865) and Eden Valley (1860s), and schools, as the 1830s. Tatiara to the north formed part of an inte- hotels, police and other community facilities followed. gral transport and communication route and towns were generally established as staging points and stopovers along Mining activities have a long history in the Mount Lofty the overland and gold routes to the Victorian gold fields Ranges, where silver was extracted. The quarry site north (Walker, 1986, p133). In the south, thousands of Chinese of Mount Pleasant is located within the archaeologically- immigrants arrived at the coastal ports of Robe and sensitive Barossa gold fields. In addition, the forestry Kingston and travelled eastward through the Penola – industry existed in the region since early settlement, estab- Naracoorte region. lishing as early as the 1840s in the Barossa area, with timber utilised for mining, rail and telegraph industries (Lester The centralisation and mechanisation of agriculture in the et al., 1981, p26). 1950s resulted in the decline of many smaller townships. Smaller grain yards, schools, shops and post offices closed Of particular note is the location of disused rail reserves and towns disappeared, albeit for the churches, district within the current Project area, which often contains his- halls and sports facilities evident throughout districts today toric artefacts. It is considered that a 25m wide construc- (Dallwitz and Marsden, 1983, p85). By contrast highway tion zone will impact the physical aspect of the reserves as and railway towns flourished. well as the visual aspect.

Previously recorded historical sites within the general There are a number of previously recorded sites in this Project area include Tintinara and Hynam Homesteads, region, some of which are in close proximity to the cor- Hynam shearing shed, William Harding’s Grave and a ridor. These include the Rosebank Shearing Shed, Mount Limestone Well. However, no sites will be impacted. One Crawford Cemetery, Glen Gillan Road Bridge, new site was recorded and comprises the Hynam Whispering Wall and various residences. However, only Cemetery established in 1846. The cemetery is located one site (a quarry) is located immediate to the current 400m east of the proposed corridor and will not be corridor. No new sites were recorded during the survey. impacted. Northern Adelaide Plains Murraylands Subsequent to initial establishment of colonial South The Murray River has always provided a common link Australia, settlement occurred within high rainfall areas between districts and towns (Dallwitz and Marsden, 1985, south of Adelaide which displayed familiar climatic condi- p16). European heritage broadly covers a range of settle- tions for European settlers. Gawler was one of the first ment activities such as overlanders, pastoralists, mission country towns established in South Australia (1839) and is settlements, riverboat trade, early irrigation schemes, the considered one of the most significant heritage towns various village settlement schemes and other agricultural (Walker, 1986, p97). Widespread settlement resulted in and horticultural developments. In addition to pastoral- large-scale clearing and replacement of native vegetation ism, the riverboat trade and irrigation strongly influenced with crops such as wheat and corn. regional history. Much of the intensive development is relatively recent, The overwhelming majority of recorded sites are located post-dating the Second World War and the expansion of adjacent the Murray River, often within township bound- industry in the Salisbury-Elizabeth district. Rapid urban- aries (such as Cooke Plains and Reedy Creek) and it isation resulted in the extensive modification of the land- appears that the SEA Gas Project may impact upon these scape, consolidated by the long fringes of the northern sites to some degree. No new sites were recorded during Adelaide suburban sprawl. the historic assessment in this region. A number of previously recorded sites are in the general Mount Lofty Ranges vicinity of the corridor and relate to early regional pas- The development of cropping and the influx of German toral and agricultural settlement. Sites in close proximity settlers occurred from the mid-1840s to the 1850s. The to the proposed corridor include residences, Dry Creek levels of wheat production and pastoral expansion resulted Railway and Torrens Island Quarantine Station. The in increased populations and role of service centres. Flour Edinburgh Airforce Base is located immediately adjacent

103 Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage SEA Gas Project EER/EIR the route and will be avoided. No new sites were torical heritage significance are readily identifiable; sites recorded during the survey. such as buildings, structures and cemeteries. As such, unintentional damage is less likely than for indigenous 10.2.2 Potential Impacts heritage items.

The following activities have the potential to affect the The main potential impacts are associated with the dis- cultural heritage values of the Project area: turbance to smaller scattered items occurring on or • creation of construction access immediately below the land surface as a result of earth- • clear-and-grade operations works. • trenching, and • horizontal directional drilling. 10.2.3 Impact Mitigation

Items of historical heritage significance are protected Objective under the Victorian Heritage Act 1995 and the South The principal objective is to avoid adverse impacts to the Australian Heritage Act 1993. The majority of items of his- historical heritage within the Project area.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 9.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts and long term environmental risk to Historical heritage of the project area Operation 26.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to identified historical heritage sites *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 9.1 To avoid damage to built heritage 9.2 To implement appropriate protocols for dealing with historical heritage material that may be discovered during construction Operation 26.1 To avoid damage to built heritage 26.2 To implement appropriate protocols for dealing with historical heritage material discovered during operations *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures Preconstruction Survey To avoid impacts to historical heritage SEA Gas will • conduct a heritage survey of the final alignment during implement the following measures. the detailed design phase to identify all known heritage sites General • conduct further field assessment of historical structures • adopt the principles and practices outlined in the APIA such as railway infrastructure and bridges, and Code • include site locations as “no-go” areas on the Alignment • integrate site specific management strategies into the Sheets. Construction Environmental Management Plan, and • work in close liaison with Heritage Victoria, Heritage Prevent Damage or Disturbance to Sites of Historical SA and local historical societies regarding the manage- Heritage Significance ment of historical heritage issues. • where practicable, select a final alignment within the proposed corridor that avoids historical heritage sites

104 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 10: Cultural Heritage

• select locations of associated site works that avoid impacts to sites • avoid impact to all standing buildings and structures • where stone walls are unavoidable consent from Heritage Victoria may be required and stones replaced after pipeline construction is complete • install flagging, protective fencing or erosion control measures to protect sites near the easement, which will not be directly affected by construction, and • ensure all personnel are adequately aware of the required historical heritage management procedures.

10.3 Conclusion

An assessment of potential impacts to the cultural heritage of the Project area has been carried out based on a combination of available literature, the results of Project specific consultation, predictive modelling and field survey. A range of potential impacts to the indigenous and historical cultural heritage of the project area have been identified, including damage to surface artefact scatters, damage to subsurface cultural material, and damage to culturally significant vegetation. A number of areas of high archaeological sensitivity within the Project area have been identified, and further work will be undertaken in these areas and incorporated into the detailed planning phase. SEA Gas is confident that by working closely with regulatory agencies and community representatives, and with the application of existing protocols and appropriate impact avoidance and mitigation strategies, all potential adverse effects to the cultural heritage of the Project area can be reduced to an acceptable level.

105 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

106 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

11 Socio-Economic Issues

This chapter assesses the potential social and economic Regional benefits will not be distributed evenly implications of the proposed SEA Gas Project. These throughout the Project area, and are largely dependent on include benefits, such as increased regional expenditure the construction program (that is,the location of construc- and development. In addition the chapter identifies the tion bases). These details will be finalised during the need to protect: detailed design and early construction phase of the Project • existing land use activities (see Section 5.2). • third party infrastructure,and • visual amenity. Regional profiles are based upon the published literature, with additional information gained from interviews with SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appro- local government authorities. Details of organisations priate management strategies, regional communities will consulted are outlined in Section 12. receive significant economic benefits and any negative socio-economic impacts can be avoided or reduced to an 11.1.1 Existing Socio-Economic acceptable level. Environment

Hopkins SSD 11.1 Regional Economic Issues At the time of the 1996 Census,59,606 persons lived in the region, where 23.5% were children aged 0-14 years. The The benefits to Victoria and South Australia, at the state SSD had an average household income of approximately level, are dealt with in Section 1.1. In addition, the Project $34,515 per annum compared to the Victorian average of will generate significant benefits for regional communities $41,599. in the Project area. Although the region had a relatively low unemployment Regional socio-economic analysis is traditionally based rate of 4.9% (DEWRSB, 2001), unemployment was upon Statistical Sub-Divisions (SSD) which group Local concentrated in the major urban centre of Warrnambool Government Areas with similar broad characteristics to (7.0%). The actual region through which the pipeline allow data to be presented in a concise manner. Other passes has an unemployment rate of less than 3.0%. sections of this document have divided the Project area Agriculture, forestry and fishing was the major employing into bioregions, due to the nature of the available industry (25.2%), followed by retail (14.7%) (Australian economic data these bioregions are not considered appro- Bureau of Statistics,1996). priate for regional economic analysis. The Statistical Sub- Divisions used are outlined in Table 11-1. As expected in an area dominated by agricultural employment, local people are mostly employed as managers or Estimates of the regional economic implications of the administrators (23.6%, of which 19.9% are farmers). Project were determined by identifying significant regional Tradespeople account for 12.4% of local employment, expenditures (in particular wages and salaries) and local predominantly in the food (1.8%), automotive (1.7%), purchases of goods and services (for example,food,accom- engineering (1.5%) and construction trades (1.3%). The modation, mechanical and earthmoving services and area has also experienced strong growth in the dairy compensation payments). The approximate value of these industry in recent years and much of this growth is attrib- purchases was determined by reference to previous gas uted contributed to small boutique businesses. pipeline projects and allocated on a pro-rata basis,reflecting the distance of pipe through each sub-division. Glenelg SSD Some 37,064 persons were recorded as living in these Direct expenditure is likely to lead to subsequent expendi- regions in the 1996 Census. The area has a relatively high tures in regional economies. It was estimated that subse- proportion of residents aged between 0-14 years and over quent expenditures would typically add no less than a 65 years. The average income of the region at that time was further 50% (multiplier of 1.5) to the local region. approximately $33,508. Currently,unemployment in the

107 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 11-1: Statistical Sub-Divisions

Statistical Local Government Pipeline passes Main population State Sub-Division Areas (LGA) through the centres or locations LGA Victoria Hopkins Corangamite Yes Camperdown Moyne Yes Port Fairy Warrnambool No Warrnambool Glenelg Glenelg Yes Portland Casterton Southern Grampians Yes Hamilton West Wimmera West Wimmera Yes (minor) Edenhope Horsham No Northern Grampians No South Upper South East Naracoorte and Yes Naracoorte Australia Lucindale Tatiara Yes Bordertown Padthaway Lacepede No Cape Jaffa Robe No Robe Murray Mallee The Coorong Yes Tailem Bend Meningie Murray Bridge Yes Murray Bridge Mid Murray Yes Mannum Barossa Barossa Yes Angaston Tanunda Mt Pleasant Light No Kapunda Mallala No Mallala Northern Adelaide Gawler Yes Gawler Playford Yes Elizabeth Salisbury Port Adelaide Enfield No (East & Inner) Western Adelaide Port Adelaide Enfield Yes (Coast & Port) Charles Sturt No West Torrens No

regions averages 5.9%, well below the Victorian average of The local economy of the region is currently exhibiting 6.5%. Most locals are employed in the agricultural,forestry strong economic growth, reflecting the expansion of the and fishing sectors (21.7%), followed by manufacturing forestry sector and strong farm commodity prices. (13.7%). Almost half of the employment in manufacturing Accommodation in Hamilton is currently under-supplied is in the metal products sector, reflecting the presence of with housing prices rising. There are a number of undevel- the Alcoa aluminium smelter in Portland. Similar to the oped projects in the general area including wood product Coastal South-west Victoria bioregion, there is a high processing proposals in association with the Glenelg Shire. proportion of local residents employed as managers and The mineral sand project located near Balmoral may also administrators (20.2%) and in the trades and related jobs be developed within the next few years. (13.5%). Over recent years, agricultural practices in the Glenelg Shire have changed substantially from pastoral land The Project traverses the north and western sectors of the to plantation forestry. Glenelg Shire, past Casterton to the South Australian

108 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues border. The pipeline also makes a slight incursion through Murray Bridge (8.5%). the southern boundaries of the West Wimmera Shire municipality. The Shire estimated unemployment rates of Murray Bridge is growing rapidly,partly in response to the 2.0% in March 2001, mainly attributed to the limitation of opening of the Adelaide Hills tunnel, but also by strong “workforce entry”jobs. industrial growth in town and at Monarto where BigW has centred its distribution operations for southern Australia. Upper South East SSD The largely agricultural SSD, is home to 17,986 persons, Barossa SSD 23.6% of whom were aged between 0-14 years. The aver- The pipeline traverses only a small area in the southern age household income was an estimated $36,413, com- section of the Barossa SSD, which had a population of pared to the State average of $36,808. The unemployment 17,692 with a slightly higher proportion of young children rate recorded in March 2001 was estimated at 3.4%. The aged 0-14 years (24.1%) and a lower than average share of agriculture, forestry and fishing sector dominated local older residents over 65 (11.3%). To be expected for employment (some 36.9%), while 11.8% were employed Australia’s primary wine producing centre, the manufac- in manufacturing (predominantly food processing – turing industry dominates (21.4%) with over half of this 8.6%). Construction employment accounted for a rela- represented by the food-processing sector. The occupa- tively low proportion of the total industries (3.9%). As tional structure of the SSD is less skewed towards manage- expected in an economy with an agricultural based indus- ment and administrative employment (15.0%) than other try structure, most were employed as managers and rural areas, with professional (13.7%) and trade related jobs administrators (26.5%) and farmers (22.9%), while trades- (14.3%) being closer to the State average. The average people accounted for only 11.5% of employment. household income in the area was $34,602,and unemployment was a low 3.9%. The region is experiencing a strong economic growth phase, indicted by almost no local unemployment. Northern Adelaide SSD Industries contributing to current strength include viti- This area is best described as the outer northern suburbs of culture (Coonawarra/Padthaway), abattoir and associated Adelaide. The 1996 Census identified some 325,132 meat production (Naracoorte) and other primary service persons living in this area. The age profile is relatively industries. young with 37.7% of residents less than 24 years old compared to 34.4% for the State. Most local residents are Specific to Tatiara,strong growth has occurred in the local employed in the manufacturing industry (19.8%),predom- dairy and viticultural industries. In addition, Tatiara inantly in machinery and equipment manufacturing Meats, an export abattoir, currently employs some 480 (7.4%). The predominant local employer is the General people and is also a signatory to the Greenhouse Motors Holden plant at Elizabeth. The retail trade is Challenge. considered a secondary industry providing 15.5% of Murray Mallee SSD employment. The most significant occupational category The population of the SSD was 31,342 at the time of the is the intermediate, clerical sales and services, employing 1996 Census. The region has a relatively older age profile 18.7% of employed residents. with some 30.5% of residents over the age of 65 years. It is a predominantly agricultural and manufacturing with The Northern Adelaide region had an average annual these industries employing 29.3% and 13.8% of local resi- household income of $36,101, compared to the State dents, respectively. Manufacturing is dominated by the average of $36,808. However, unemployment remains food processing sector (7.5%) and machinery manufacture relatively high at 9.4%. Within the region, disparities in (3.8%). Some 23.9% of locally employed persons are unemployment rates are marked, ranging from 21.4% at managers and administrators – mostly farmers (20.5%), Elizabeth in the central area of the SSD to 8.6% at Gawler while 13.0% of residents are employed as tradespeople. in the north and down to 4.7% at Tree Gully in the south east of the SSD. The average weekly household income recorded at the 1996 Census was a relatively low $29,937. The local Western Adelaide SSD unemployment rate was estimated at 7.1% compared to The area had a population of 201,801 persons, with a rela- the South Australian average of 7.4%. Unemployment tively high number of people aged 65 and over (18.6%), was highest in the urban areas of Mannum (8.6%) and possibly reflecting eastern coastal gulf locations such as

109 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Glenelg. Manufacturing was the largest employment on similar projects. The benefits incorporate a flow on (or generator (17.9%), with machinery and equipment manu- multiplier) effect based on a multiplier of 1.5. This incorpo- facturing contributing slightly over a third of this employ- rates the impact of subsequent expenditures in the regions, ment. Subsequent employment industries include retail which will be stimulated by the initial pipeline based trades (14.4%) and transport and storage, providing 5% of spending. The multiplier of 1.5 is a conservative estimate of jobs compared with a State average of only 3.8%. Most the likely flow on impacts reflecting the different characteris- residents were employed as intermediate clerical, sales and tics of potential support industries in the affected regions1. service workers (19.1%), while 15.8% are employed as professionals. The average income within the SSD was a The estimated benefits are specifically related to the relatively low $33,656, reflecting the age profile of the construction of the pipeline and do not include the impacts region. As of March 2001, the average unemployment rate of projects, which may be facilitated by the successful for the SSD was 8.5%. However,there were strong regional completion of the SEA Gas Project. Thus while this disparities, with the Enfield area having an unemployment project may lead to the commissioning of the Minerva Gas rate of 17.6% and Port Adelaide 8.7%. Project, any benefits associated with that project have been excluded from this analysis. 11.1.2 Regional Benefits 11.2 Land Use The socio-economic assessment estimated the expected total direct and indirect regional expenditure during the Minimising disruptions to the wide ranging land use activ- construction phase of the Project. The assessment identi- ities occurring within the Project area is an important fied a range of additional regional benefits associated with objective of the SEA Gas Project. It is recognised that employment, increased gas supply and stimulus for other appropriate management will mitigate: sectors. Table 11-2 summarises the findings. • any adverse effects to agricultural productivity or other primary production activities in both short term and The regional benefits reflect the direct impacts of pipeline long term construction pipeline through the regions estimated on a pro • disruption to important land use periods (that is,calving, rata basis reflecting the historical share of local expenditures lambing,breeding,sowing,harvesting or recreation)

Table 11-2: Summary of Regional Benefits Project Implications

SSD Regional Other Issues Expenditure Hopkins $7.6 million • Stimulus for Minerva development (the economic implications of which have not been considered here). • Four direct long term employment positions. Glenelg $8.1 million • Likely accommodation base during construction. • Opportunities for supply of gas to timber and minerals processing sectors. West Wimmera $0.6 million • Limited benefits due to short distance of SSD traversed. • Some scope for supply of gas to proposed olive processing facility in north of Shire. Upper South East $9.2 million • Local contract employment associated with compressor station. • Opportunities for supply of gas to wine and meat processing industries (eg. Naracoorte abattoirs and Tatiara Meats). Murray Mallee $10.4 million • Opportunities for increased gas reticulation and domestic supply. • Opportunities for supply of gas to the dairy industry. Barossa $2.3 million • Opportunities for supply of natural gas to the wine and food processing industries. Northern Adelaide $3.3 million • Construction employment opportunities particularly related to supply of earthmoving and mechanical services Western Adelaide $0.6 million • Opportunities for supply of natural gas for power generation.

1 There were no published statistics on regional multipliers for the construction regions. 110 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

• spread of noxious weeds,pests and diseases,and Table 11-3 illustrates broad land uses representative of each • disruption to conservation, recreational, industrial or bioregion. other third party land use activities. The following description of current land uses within the SEA Gas is confident that all impacts to current land use proposed SEA Gas Project area outlines key livestock, activities within the Project area can be reduced to an cropping periods and other important times, activities and acceptable level. requirements.

11.2.1 Existing Land Use Agriculture The south-west of Victoria is considered the third largest The Project predominantly traverses pastoral and agricul- agricultural production region in Australia (ABARE, tural properties. Land uses within the pipeline corridor 2000a). Victoria contributed 22% of the total gross value of include: agricultural production, 16% of total rural exports and • agriculture (including irrigated pasture/cropping, dairy, supported 25% of the total number of establishments with dryland cropping, stock grazing, other livestock and viti- agricultural activity in Australia. High average rainfall and culture) access to major sources of water for irrigation have enabled • conservation (including forestry reserves) the State to support a broad range of agricultural activities • mining and light industry including milk cattle, sheep and beef cattle farming, cereal • recreational,and grain, and fruit and vegetable production, all of which are • residential. represented in the south-west region.

A range of additional land-uses are present in the Project South Australia’s agricultural industry is dominated by the area but will not be directly impacted by the Project. These broadacre industries including grain growing, sheep and include nature conservation, mining and water storage and beef farming and grape growing (ABARE, 2000a). treatment. Broadacre industries represent 65% of all agricultural

Table 11-3: Representative Land Uses Within Each Bioregion Bioregion Representative Land uses Coastal Southwest Victoria • Irrigation Dairy • Minor grazing cattle and sheep farming, and some cereal cropping Volcanic Plains • Irrigation Dairy • Minor grazing cattle and sheep farming, and some cereal cropping Dundas Tablelands • Wheat and barley, with secondary crops comprising turnips and peas Wimmera • Wheat and barley, with secondary crops comprising turnips and peas • Forestry (Dergholm) • Plantations • Viticulture Southern Mallee • Cattle and sheep farming, and cereal cropping • Plantations • Viticulture Murraylands • Sheep grazing • Recreational (associated with Murray River) • Irrigation Dairy Mt Lofty Ranges • Prime sheep grazing – Mt Crawford • Olive Plantations • Viticulture • Hobby farming • Forestry (Mt Crawford) Northern Adelaide Plains • Industrial/Commercial • Horticulture • Hobby farming

111 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR industries in South Australia. Similar to Victoria,the extent paddocks during the wetter winter periods. Mole drains of the pipeline route traverses most agricultural practices consist of small subsurface channels,commonly at depths of and land uses within the State. 30cm.

Dairy Farming Intensive dairy farming along the Project route in South Victoria’s temperate climate and natural resources enable Australia is limited to a 1.5km strip of the Murray River year round grazing of quality pastures grown using rainfall or flood plain near Jervois. relatively low cost irrigation water. Victoria’s agricultural land use sector is dominated by the milk, beef cattle and Cattle and in particular sheep stock are susceptible to sheep industries. In 1999, the total number of milk cattle in respective “footrot” bovine and ovine disease (Dichelobacter Victoria was 1.9 million, representing 60% of all milk cattle nodosus). Footrot is primarily passed from foot to foot via in Australia. Milk production in this time has increased by pasture or mud. Consequently, moist pastures, laneways 56%, totaling 1.6 billion litres. The Victorian industry is and muddy yards are main areas where footrot may be focussed on milk production for manufacturing purposes, spread. Goats, cattle and possibly vehicles can act as whereas other States generally cater for the fresh milk carriers. Footrot is spread most rapidly when it is warm market. and moist,as in spring and some autumns. One property in Victoria’s south-west dairy region and one in Padthaway, Dairy farming is the most predominant agricultural and South Australia (approximately 5km from the alignment) land use practice in the Victorian sector of the pipeline have been identified to potentially support the footrot corridor, extending from Port Campbell to Branxholme. disease. Footrot control and management is administered Dairying in the west Moyne region is in the form of “irri- by DNRE’s Animal Health Officers in Victoria and by gated rotation paddocks”, where the use of paddocks are PIRSA in South Australia. alternated throughout the year to maximise milk quality. Paddock rotation is particularly concentrated during peak Other Livestock milking season. The prime milking period for dairy Improved pastures provide the feed-base for 90% of beef farmers in this region is summer, with calving occurring cattle and sheep on 16 000 farms. However,in recent years during June and August. Milk from this region is processed beef feedlots have expanded in Victoria. Although dairy at the Devondale facility or regional cheese factories, with farming is the most significant land use extending to product distributed to both regional and state retail outlets. Branxholme, north of Warrnambool, land uses also include grazing cattle and sheep farming, and some cereal crop- Representative of the boutique dairy industry is the ping. Timboon Farmhouse Cheese Factory located in Timboon, some 8 km from the corridor. The Timboon Farmhouse Numbers of sheep and lambs in South Australia totals 13.1 Cheese Factory produces an organic product based on million and represents 11% of the total number of sheep biodynamic farming, which is practiced at the site and by and lambs in Australia. Beef cattle number approximately 1 contributing farmers. Organic initiatives that have been million and represented 4% of Australia’s beef cattle herd. introduced into the pastoral regions are an important Cattle and sheep farming and cereal cropping extends from developing regional “boutique”industry. One criteria for the South Australian border, passing near Keith, organic certification is verification that products are free Coonalpyn, Cooke Plains to Tailem Bend. Sheep grazing from chemical contamination. predominantly occurs from Murray Flats to Palmer. Of significant note is prime sheep grazing land near Mount In addition to organic certification, several Victorian prop- Pleasant,South Australia. erties are Quality Assurance certified. To gain certification, farmers must implement specific and auditable manage- Sheep and cattle are primarily farmed for human meat ment controls, which primarily record the process and consumption. Paddocks are used on a rotational basis, not details of farming management (for example, cattle dip to the intensity of dairy farming. A secondary source of dates and washes, and other vaccinations, inoculations and income is sheep shearing for wool production. worming treatments). The calving season extends through autumn/winter. In Landholders in the south-west of Victoria commonly areas of summer rainfall or on properties with irrigation, construct “mole drains”to facilitate drainage of the pasture the spring growing period is extended and spring-born

112 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues calves may grow as well as autumn-born calves. The peak increasing in importance in the Wrattonbully region,south lambing period occurs during June and August. The first and east of Naracoorte. two weeks of lambing is considered the most critical to the success of the lambing season, as ewes must bond with A pest of concern to the grape growing industry is the newborn lambs. insect phylloxera. It attacks grapevine roots, causing a decline in health and ultimate death of vines. It can be Alternate livestock activities, including pig farming, occur spread between vineyards in a range of ways, including within close proximity to the proposed route. The corridor movement of soil and machinery. South Australia is abuts a property near Kiki,South Australia though does not currently free of phylloxera, and is designated a Phylloxera encroach operational activities. Exclusion Zone. While phylloxera is not known to be present in southwestern Victoria,the region is designated as Agriculture Phylloxera Risk Zone. PIRSA administers regulations to Wheat and barley are the main crops grown in Victoria and control the movement of vineyard machinery into South Australia. In Victoria, wheat crops produced 1.5 Phylloxera Exclusion Zones from Phylloxera Risk Zones million tonnes of grain from an area of 949 000 hectares (that is,into South Australia),and protocols exist to prevent and barley crops produced 0.9 million tonnes of grain from the spread of phylloxera (Phylloxera and Grape Industry 568 000 hectares. The combined grain value is estimated at Board of South Australia,2000). $400 million. South Australia’s barley crop is generally the largest in Australia with 2 million tonnes of grain harvested Forestry from 1 million hectares of plantings. Within the broad Project area, three main types of forestry are present: Grain legume or pulse production is increasing in both • blue gum plantation States. Pulses are grown in rotation with cereal crops to • native forest,and improve soil fertility and assist with the control of cereal • pine plantation. diseases. Fallowing typically occurs in July/August and crops are sown in the following autumn/winter. Blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), a tall (30m) fast growing species (from 7 years and up to 20 years), typically prefers Within Victoria, cropping occurs east of Macarthur and heavy loam-clay but can grow on a range of sites. The predominantly includes cereals such as wheat and barley, species is not considered drought or salt tolerant, although with secondary crops comprising turnips and peas. The is moderately frost tolerant. Blue gum timber is used for sandy soils near the South Australian border and limestone superior pulp and general building purposes, with harvest soils near Cooke Plains also support cereal cropping time depending on local markets and climatic conditions. pastures. Cereals are sown from mid-April to June, often Blue gums require a minimum 700mm annual rainfall, and later in the south. Crops ripen from mid-November areas with more rainfall are considered higher quality,faster (inland) to mid-January (near the coast) and are generally producing sites (Measki, 2000). The Victorian blue gum harvested in mid-summer. pulpwood industry has rapidly expanded in recent years, primarily dominated by plantation investment and forestry Olive plantations are a relatively new agriculture industry companies. in the southern states of Australia. Olive trees have recently been planted north of the corridor in the west Wimmera The area north of Branxholme, through Casterton and region,Victoria and in the Mount Lofty Ranges and Direk Dergholm contains extensive areas of blue gum plantation. area,South Australia. It is anticipated that most olive groves However,none are crossed by the pipeline corridor. will be avoided during construction, but some minor tree removal is anticipated at Direk. The Roseneath Sate Forest south of Dergholm contains large areas of native woodland, which historically has been Viticulture used for timber harvesting. The pipeline traverses approxi- South Australia dominates Australia’s grape growing mately 3km of native forest in this area using an electricity industry,producing an estimated 39% of the national grape easement (see Map 6). crop (ABARE,2000b). Viticulture is an important land use in the North Mount Lofty Ranges and Padthaway region The Mount Lofty Ranges contains approximately 9639ha (Northern Hills Soil Conservation Board, 1996), and is of plantation and 4400ha of native forests. These areas are

113 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR used for a combination of forestry,recreation and conserva- ational importance, with developed bushwalking and tion purposes. The corridor traverses two sections of pine picnic facilities. plantation in the Mt Crawford Forest area utilising existing firebreaks and tracks. The corridor crosses Reedy Creek some 1.5km upstream of the principal values associated with the listing through Conservation Areas an area used for grazing and cropping. Seventeen areas of designated conservation importance are located within 5km of the corridor (see Table 11-4). The Macarthur area (reference number 003728), located near a major branch of the Condah Swamp, is listed for its Parks indigenous heritage values. The pipeline corridor avoids all The pipeline corridor avoids all national,state,regional and sites that were identified in this area during initial consulta- conservation parks in Victoria and South Australia. tion with the Kerrup-Jmara Elders Aboriginal Coporation and government authorities or during the heritage survey National Estate Areas (see Chapter 11). Further consultation will be carried out Two areas listed on the Register of the National Estate are to ensure the project does not adversely impact the traversed by the pipeline corridor: heritage values of the area. • The Reedy Creek area,and • The Macarthur area. World Heritage The Naracoorte Caves are included on the World Heritage The Reedy Creek area (reference number 007895) is listed List and contain one of the world’s richest deposits for its geological representation of the relationship between Pleistocene vertebrate fossil deposits (Wells et al., 1984, the metamorphics of the Kanmantoo Group and the intru- Wells,1975). In addition to its World Heritage listing, the sive Reedy Creek granodiorite. Caloote Swamp is located Naracoorte Caves are proclaimed under the South in the eastern portion of the area and is recognised as an Australia National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. The caves are important water bird habitat. The area contains waterfalls, located some 8km from the corridor. rockpools and areas of remnant vegetation and is of recre-

Table 11-4: Conservation Areas Within Five Kilometres of the Pipeline Corridor

State Park Name Distance from Map Corridor Reference Victoria Port Campbell National Park 3km Map 4 Macarthur National Estate Area Traversed Map 5 Mocambro Bushland Reserve 1km Map 5 Dergholm State Park 500m Map 6 Beniagh Swamp Wildlife Reserve 2km Map6 Mageppa Bushland Reserve 4km Map 6 Meereek Bushland Reserve 3km Map 6 South Australia Grass Tree Conservation Park 2km Map 7 Padthaway Conservation Park 500m Map 8 Desert Camp Conservation Park 3km Map 8 Reedy Creek National Estate Area Traversed Map 11 Palmer Granite Boulders National Estate Areas 500m Map 11 Hale Conservation Park 2km Map 11 Warren Conservation Park 4km Map 11 Sandy Creek Conservation Park 2km Map 11 Para Wirra Recreation Park 3km Map 11 Torrens Island Conservation Park 1km Map 11

114 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

Recreation diary herds. However, significant disturbance to dairy The pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid most production is unlikely due to mitigation measures recreational areas. Key areas in close proximity to the described in the following Section,“Impact Mitigation”. corridor include: • the Reedy Creek National Estate area,and Summer is the most important period for dairy production • The Heysen Trail,near Mount Crawford (that is, for milk quality and quantity) in the southwest of Victoria. During this time, dairy farmers heavily rotate Mining and Other Industry stock to capitalise on high quality pasture paddocks. A number of mining operations are located in the vicinity of the corridor particularly in the area south of Gawler, In addition to the restriction of certain paddocks,Victoria’s however,there are no operational mines within the pipeline southwest dairy pastures are commonly irrigated using a corridor. One private sand-mining operation south of “travelling irrigator”. There is a potential that the irrigator Palmer may impact the corridor prior to construction will not be able to function at full capacity when the trench is open. An inherent and common problem associated with The Northern Adelaide Plains region contains a range of this irrigation system is the “burrowing” of the equipment light and heavy industries, dominated by manufacturing, into the ground during the cycle. Potential consequences assembly and storage industries. Of particular note are of the irrigation infrastructure intercepting the pipeline cement, battery and salt production, power generation and depth may cause direct damage to the integrity of the vehicle maintenance and wrecking. pipeline.

Rural Living “Mole”drains may also be affected by trenching activities. The corridor avoids all areas of closely settled residential development,but does traverse areas of rural properties and Other Livestock medium sized rural living areas on town fringes, in the The lambing period occurs from June to August. The first Adelaide Hills and on the Northern Adelaide Plains. two weeks of this period is considered critical to the success of breeding programs. The construction period 11.2.2 Potential Impacts may potentially impact on the lambing period, but prior planning aims to ensure that such impacts are unlikely. The following Project activities have the potential to affect However, restrictions to general sheep grazing activities the land use activities within the Project area: during the construction phase may occur. • construction access • earthworks The construction and operation of the SEA Gas Project is • materials transport and storage,and highly unlikely to contribute to the spread of ovine and • the storage and handling of small quantities of fuel and bovine diseases such as Johnes and Footrot due to strict chemicals quarantine and construction management protocols. Footrot can cause severe economic loss, animal suffering However, application of appropriate management strate- due to lameness and disruption to normal farm operations. gies will mitigate: The economic loss to landholders is directly related to • any adverse effects to agricultural productivity or other reduced body weight and growth, decreased wool produc- primary production activities in both short term and tion and restricted marketing opportunities. long term • disruption to important land use periods (that is,calving, Agriculture lambing,breeding,sowing,harvesting or recreation) Impacts to agriculture primarily relate to loss of produc- • spread of noxious weeds,pests and diseases,and tivity associated with construction activities. Post • disruption to conservation, recreational, industrial or construction impact can be a result of two primary factors other third party land use activities. – inadequate reinstatement of surface drainage and easement (that is, compaction) conditions, and soil inversion. Dairy Provided appropriate management strategies are imple- Construction of the SEA Gas Project may temporarily mented,the SEA Gas Project should not unduly contribute restrict stock access to paddocks where the easement to losses of productivity post construction. occurs and may potentially disturb access tracks used by

115 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

SEA Gas have an obligation of duty of care to minimise the allow for safe construction conditions. This incremental spread of weeds, particularly those weeds which cause increase will not significantly affect the forestry values or significant economic damage. Of particular note is the activities. weed species branched broomrape (Orobanche spp) which is a parasitic weed of broadleaf crop species such as oilseeds, Conservation Areas field peas, vegetables and lupins. Each broomrape plant is Conservation Parks capable of producing up to 500,000 dust-sized seeds,which The project will not impact any proclaimed parks or reserves. can remain dormant for up to 10 years. A broomrape quarantine area is located east of Murray Bridge, and the National Estate Areas pipeline route has been chosen to avoid this area. The National Estate values of the Reedy Creek will not be directly impacted by the Project. Control of sedimentation The avoidance of known broomrape areas, and the devel- and erosion will protect the area from indirect impacts. opment and implementation of strict weed management protocols during all phases of Project development (that is, The National Estate values of the Macarthur area will not planning, construction, restoration and operations) will be significantly impacted by the Project. The pipeline ensure that the spread of broomrape and other weeds to corridor avoids the National Estate sites (and other indige- uninfested areas is very unlikely. These protocols will be nous heritage sites) that were identified in this area during developed in consultation with PIRSA, and will include the consultation and survey process,and further survey and specifications for washdown, decontamination and inspec- consultation will ensure that significant impacts to this area tion of vehicles and machinery where necessary. are avoided.

Viticulture World Heritage There are no anticipated impacts to viticulture in the The Project will have no effect on the World Heritage Barossa and Padthaway region as the corridor has selec- values of the Naracoorte Caves. tively avoided all producing viticulture properties and operations. Minor impacts may occur to a small area of Mining and Other Light Industries vines (approximately 100m) in the Macdonald Park area on The SEA Gas Project will not directly impact mining the Northern Adelaide Plains. activities or light industry located within the pipeline corridor. However, potential indirect disturbances may Impacts on future vineyard development (for example in include short-term disruptions to local traffic conditions. the Hynam region) are likely to be limited to minor restrictions on development along the pipeline easement. Private sand mining operations north of Palmer will not be These may include requirements to use the easement as an impacted as a result of pipeline construction, as the land- access track,rather than for planting of vines. holder has indicated an intention to extract the resource prior to commencement of the Project. The construction and operation of the SEA Gas Project is highly unlikely to contribute the spread of phylloxera, as Recreation construction management protocols will ensure that The pipeline corridor avoids most areas of recreational machinery operating in wine-growing regions in South activity. Potential impacts to areas of recreational activities Australia complies with the Phylloxera Prevention (that is, Mount Crawford, Mount Lofty Ranges, Reedy Protocol (Phylloxera and Grape Industry Board of South Creek and Murray Bridge sections of the route) include Australia,2000). temporary restriction of public access during construction to ensure protect public safety. The SEA Gas Project may Forestry temporarily affect the recreational experience in some The SEA Gas Project has been selectively planned to use areas associated with a loss of visual amenity (see Section existing fire access trails and infrastructure easements where 11.3). possible. Construction through the short sections of forestry areas will not require the creation of new access tracks. In general, such impacts will be of a temporary nature and will not exclude the public from undertaking recreational In some forestry areas near Dergholm construction may based activities away from the immediate construction require the power easement to be widened by up to 5m to area.

116 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

11.2.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective is to minimise adverse impacts to land use activities.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 10.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts and long term environmental risk to current land use activities 10.b To appropriately reinstate and rehabilitate easement to allow continuation of current land use activities Operation 27.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts to land use activities during operations 27.b To appropriately monitor land use productivity post construction *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 10.1 To prevent adverse effects on stock during construction 10.2 To avoid unacceptable disturbances to landowner assets and infrastructure 10.3 To adequately protect conservation or recreational values and activities 10.4 To prevent the spread of, and to take practicable measures to control, weeds and animal and plant pests and diseases (such as branched broomrape, phylloxera and footrot), and to take appropriate remediation measures where required 10.5 To avoid adverse effects to residential and industrial activities Operation 27.1 To prevent adverse effects on stock during operations 27.2 To adequately monitor agricultural productivity post construction 27.3 To avoid unacceptable disturbances to landowner assets and infrastructure 27.4 To adequately protect conservation or recreational values and activities 27.5 To avoid the spread of agricultural weeds and diseases (such as branched broomrape phylloxera and footrot) and to take appropriate remediation measures where required 27.6 To avoid adverse effects to residential and industrial activities *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures • implement appropriate quarantine measures and weed, To mitigate potential impacts to land use,SEA Gas will: pest and disease control and management protocols • consider current land use practices and future infrastruc- during construction and operations,in consultation with ture extensions,and to design the pipeline accordingly relevant management authorities • work closely with landowners and managers to minimise • rehabilitate the construction right-of-way in consulta- conflict with existing land use activities tion with landholders • enter into formal easement agreements outlining the legal • consult with relevant management authorities (that is, responsibilities of both SEA Gas and the landowner Forestry SA and Department of Natural Resources and • where possible, avoid construction activities during peak Environment) to develop and implement strategies to lambing periods or, if not practicable, consult with land- control inappropriate public access holders to coordinate lambing beyond proposed • implement appropriate erosion and sediment control construction paddocks measures upstream of Reedy Creek

117 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• develop and implement appropriate traffic management pipeline corridor from Port Campbell to Mount Pleasant, procedures to minimise impacts in residential areas with forestry prevalent in the Mount Lofty Ranges and • consult Country Fire Authority/Service and other industry and residential development occurring on the emergency service agencies to develop alternative Northern Adelaide Plains. summer fire access response plans to be applied when existing fire access trails in forestry areas are being used, Key areas where visual amenity is considered an important and aspect of the Project are broadly outlined in Table 11-5. • monitor activities in close proximity to the easement to Visually sensitive locations principally correlate to impor- ensure the integrity of the pipeline is maintained and tant tourist,recreation,forest and conservation areas. that no potential land use conflicts arise.

11.3.2 Potential Impacts 11.3 Visual Amenity Potential impacts to visual amenity are generally described Pipelines, by their very nature, have a low level of impact as a visual or aesthetic disturbance to landholders, residents on visual amenity. Generally this is restricted to short term and tourists, where the Project may be perceived to disturbances associated with construction earthworks and contrast significantly with existing landscape settings and localised impacts associated with the presence of above aesthetic values. ground facilities. SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appropriate design and mitigation strategies,there The following Project activities have the potential to affect will be no significant long term impacts to the visual the visual attributes of the Project area: amenity of the Project area. • vegetation clearing and earthworks during construction • the success of easement reinstatement and rehabilitation This section deals with the existing visual sensitivities, works,and potential impacts and mitigation strategies. Other poten- • the presence of above ground facilitates. tial impacts to the local amenity are associated with dust and noise. These issues are dealt with in Chapter 8. The construction of the pipeline will result in short term disturbance to the visual amenity of the local environment. Key issues include the potential to create new breaks in 11.3.1 Existing Environment vegetation corridors, line-of-sight along the linear easement and the presence of construction vehicles,equipment Visual assessment involves the evaluation of the visual and stockpiles. As outlined below, all such issues can be effects of development in relation to the landscape and avoided or successfully mitigated. particular areas of visual sensitivity. The bare appearance of the easement after construction The “visual effect”of the SEA Gas Project is the expression and prior to revegetation will create local short term of the interaction between the development and the reduction to visual amenity in areas accessible to the public. existing landscape setting along the pipeline corridor. For However, due to the nature of the pipeline development example, a high visual effect will result in the pipeline such reductions are temporary and considered to be of low contrasting strongly with the landscape and being therefore potential impact. There will be no substantial,significant or obvious (for example tree clearing through forested area). long-term change to the aesthetic appearance of the The “visual sensitivity” of the Project principally depends natural environs associated with the pipeline route due to on land use, the distance of the development from the rehabilitation measures post construction. viewer and general visibility of the Project from critical view areas. During operations, any cleared gap in trees and shrubs will be maintained to allow access for pipeline inspection and The majority of the pipeline corridor is considered to have maintenance. As the corridor has been selected to low visual sensitivity as it is removed from general viewing, minimise vegetation and fragmentation of vegetation or already has been significantly modified by development corridors,such impacts will be few. (such as vegetation clearing, rural housing and infrastructure and roads). Agricultural activities dominate the

118 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

Table 11-5: Visually Sensitive Locations

Bioregion Location Reference Visual Visual Rationale Township Sensitivity Effect Coastal Great Ocean Port Campbell High Low • Areas important for Southwestern Road to tourism Victoria Warrnambool West Wimmera Dergholm State Dergholm Medium Low • Native forest Forests Southern Mallee Compressor Padthaway Low High • Distant from areas of Station Site tourism • Distant from vineyards • Visually contrasting Compressor Station Road reserves Padthaway to Medium Low • Remnant vegetation (various) Murray Bridge • Feasible opportunities to mitigate impacts Murraylands Murray River Tailem Bend Medium Medium • Some recreation use crossing • High volume general public motorists • Significant watercrossing Reedy Creek area Palmer Medium Low • Register of the National Estate • Crossing point removed from sensitive area • Conservation areas Mt Lofty Ranges Mt Lofty Ranges Mt Pleasant High Medium • Tourist precinct • Recreation areas • Forest areas • High volume general public motorists Northern Port River Port Adelaide Medium Low • Commercial / industrial Adelaide Plains Torrens Island Torrens Island setting • High public use • Conservation area removed from public view

Above ground facilities such as the compressor station, expected to reduce impacts to acceptable levels. Pipeline meter stations and marker signs will impact local amenity markers, which are designed to be seen, will not result in a in a more permanent manner. Mitigation measures,associ- significant visual impact. ated with site selection and screening (see below) are

119 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

11.3.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective is to minimise impacts on visual amenity.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 11.a To appropriately manage adverse long term impacts to visual amenity 11.b To appropriately rehabilitate the easement to minimise visual amenity Operation 28.a To appropriately minimise and manage adverse impacts on visual amenity 28.b To appropriately monitor easement rehabilitation to minimise long term visual amenity impacts *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goal is to have a limited effect on the landscape values of the local area.

Project Phase Goal* Construction 11.1 To have a limited effect on the landscape values of the local area Operation 28.c To have a limited long term effect on the landscape values of the local area. *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures 11.4 Third Party Infrastructure Mitigation measures recommended to reduce the effects of visual amenity include: Impacts to third party infrastructure can be easily mitigated • selecting an alignment that: by careful pre-construction planning and appropriate • avoids areas of high visual impact, except where an consultation with relevant regulatory authorities, public alternative alignment is unavailable or impractical utility service companies and landholders. With adequate • reduces the line of sight clearances along the easement management,the Project can prevent impacts such as: in areas of high sensitivity • disruption or damage to road and other transport infra- • minimises the extent of vegetation clearing structure or networks • stockpiling material and equipment in areas of away from • disruption or damage to utility services,and general public view,where practicable • disruption or damage to private third party property. • maintaining all working areas in a neat and orderly manner 11.4.1 Existing Environment • adopting appropriate waste management practices • restoring, reinstating and rehabilitating the easement as Transport Network soon as practicable following backfill The existing road network will be used wherever practi- • selecting locations for above ground infrastructure in cable as access to the easement and associated pipeline areas of low visual sensitivity,where practicable construction sites and for moving equipment and • planting screening vegetation around above ground personnel in the local area. In addition,the corridor crosses infrastructure,where necessary,and numerous roads. Primary roads, such as highways and dual • using suitable paint colours where appropriate. carriageways are outlined in the following table.

120 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

Table 11-6: SEA Gas Project Roadcrossings State Status Road Name Reference township Victoria Primary Princes Highway Allansford Hopkins Highway Warrnambool Henty Highway Branxholme Glenelg Highway Casterton South Australia Primary Riddoch Highway Willalooka South Eastern Freeway Murray Bridge Sturt Highway (Main North Road) Gawler/Elizabeth Port Wakefield Road Burton Proposed Gillman Highway Ottoway

All key highways are bitumen and sealed. It is anticipated In addition, the pipeline will cross three other transmission that all main highways will be crossed by boring. pipelines: • the Hamilton Lateral Pipeline (GPU GasNet) south of A series of secondary, minor and local roads, and farm Byaduk access tracks will also be used by vehicles associated with • the Angaston – Murray Bridge Pipeline (Envestra) at pipeline construction activities or transected by the Palmer,and pipeline alignment. Dependant on usage and other consid- • the Moomba – Adelaide Pipeline (including the Wasleys erations such as environmental, geological or safety, Loop) (Epic Energy) approaching Torrens Island. unsealed secondary roads are typically crossed using standard open cut construction techniques. Telecommunications The installation of telecommunication cables and associated The corridor crosses four railroads: infrastructure has increased dramatically over the preceding • Melbourne/Warnambool Rail,at Allansford five-year period,primarily due to the increase in demand for • Portland Hamilton Railroad (heavy freight), west of improved and expanded communication capacity and Branxholme coverage to regional and isolated centres. This expansion has • Adelaide – Melbourne Railway,west of Murray Bridge, occurred over a large scale across Australia,and as a result,any and new linear project is likely to cross or to be within close • Port Pirie Salisbury Railway,at Direk. proximity to a number of telecommunication cables.

Victrack, a private organisation, manages both Victorian Aside from regular private residential housing cables and railways, whereas Australian Rail Track Corporation is the infrastructure,the SEA Gas Project route will be within close responsible authority for the Adelaide-Melbourne Railway proximity to six major fibre optic telecommunication cables, and the Port Pirie Salisbury Railway. In addition to the and is likely to cross these cables at one or more points. two rail networks in the south-west of Victoria, several disused rail reserves may be used for the pipeline. The Water Utilities pipeline will be installed to a depth of 2m below the natural The SEA Gas Project will be required to cross numerous land surface level by boring. industrial and residential water pipes adjoining the properties to mains supply. However, of particular importance to Public Utilities the construction phase is the identification of important Gas Pipelines mains and township supply pipes and irrigation systems. The pipeline will parallel the existing GPU GasNet Pty Ltd Warrnambool Sales Gas Pipeline easement for approxi- The Project route intersects the Murray Bridge – mately 40km (15% of the Victoria sector). The pipeline will Onkaparinga water pipeline north of Murray Bridge. be located between 5m and 30m from the GPU GasNet pipeline. The separation distance will be varied to reduce In addition, the alignment will intersect the above ground environmental impacts and manage safety related issues. Barossa – Adelaide water pipeline east of Gawler and will

121 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR subsequently run parallel to the easement to Evanston Similar disturbance to traffic may be expected during the South (approximately 8km). slow passage through the Mount Lofty Ranges or through the Adelaide Plains (that is, steep inclines and/or high Power density traffic conditions resulting in “intermittent” move- The pipeline corridor will cross three major high-voltage ment). However, this is generally a “once-off” occurrence powerlines varying in capacity from 175kilovolts to during the early construction phase of the Project and 375kilovolts. The pipeline will also be constructed parallel therefore such impacts are not considered significant. to two standard powerlines in the Dergholm region. It is anticipated that there will be localised traffic disrup- Private Property tions associated with road crossings as typically standard A variety of private infrastructure is present within the open cut road-crossings can take up to six hours. pipeline corridor. Common types include gates and fences. Heavy vehicle and equipment movement may result in localised damage to the integrity of the road pavement or 11.4.2 Potential Impacts surface (that is through wear-and-tear). Boring beneath sealed roads will not cause damage to road integrity. With adequate management the following potential impacts to private infrastructure can be avoided or appro- Operation priately mitigated: Inspection of the easement will be required during opera- • disruption or damage to roads and other transport infra- tions. However,it is expected that inspections will be under- structure or networks taken by four wheel drive vehicles and by aerial inspection. • disruption or damage to utility services,and Impacts to roads or traffic conditions are considered negli- • disruption or damage to private infrastructure. gible as the frequency of vehicle use of the pipeline would normally be no more than once each six months. Transport Networks The following Project activities may disrupt or damage Public Utilities transport networks: The SEA Gas Project will not result in significant impacts • use of roads during construction by extendable semi- to public utility services. Utilities will be identified prior to trailers delivering stockpiles of pipe to worksites construction and incorporated into construction line lists • use of roads by low loaders mobilising construction and appropriately flagged, earthed, protected and avoided equipment between worksites during construction. Should the construction of the SEA • transporting of construction personnel to worksites Gas Project perforate, rupture or incise cables, pipes or • open cut crossings of unsealed roads,and other utility infrastructure, short term disruptions to serv- • pipeline surveillance and maintenance activities. ices such as electricity, water and telecommunication networks may occur. With adequate management the following potential impacts to the transport network can be avoided or Utility infrastructure may also pose safety risks to personnel adequately managed: during construction, in particular induced current and • loss of road integrity,and direct contact with ‘live’ wires arising from placement and • localised traffic congestion or disruptions. movement of construction equipment and large metal objects in parallel and close proximity to power lines. Construction Activities Arching between transmission lines and construction plant During construction it is estimated that up to 2800 pipe equipment and vehicles may also occur if required separa- sections will be delivered to various locations along the tion distances are violated. easement. Based on this requirement,it has been estimated that approximately 100 deliveries will be required for the Private Property SEA Gas Project, transported by extendable semi trailers. Impacts to private property will be necessary as part of the Impacts of pipe and equipment transportation during the normal construction process, but will occur with the prior construction period include slow moving traffic on roads knowledge and approval of the landholder. Such impacts and subsequent disturbance to local traffic and motorists. include cutting fences and installing temporary gates, and Levels of disturbance are anticipated to be greater in small modifications to existing gates or driveways. Inadvertent rural communities and associated local roads where the damage will be avoided where practicable. entire road breadth may be needed by the semi trailers.

122 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

11.4.3 Impact Mitigation

Objective The principal management objective of the SEA Gas Project with respect to third party infrastructure is to minimise and where practicable avoid impacts to transport networks, private property and to public utilities.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 12.a To minimise and where practicable avoid impacts to transport networks, private property and to public utilities 12.b To appropriate reinstate disturbed third party infrastructure as a result of construction activities Operation 29.a To minimise and where practicable avoid impacts to transport networks, private property and to public utilities 29.b To appropriately monitor reinstated third party infrastructure *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO. Goals The principal management goals are to:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 12.1 Minimise damage to road integrity 12.2 Avoid unacceptable disturbance to local traffic conditions and access 12.3 Prevent damage to public utilities 12.4 Protect construction personnel safety 12.5 Contain any damage to private property to agreed levels Operation 29.1 Minimise damage to road integrity 29.2 Avoid unacceptable disturbance to local traffic conditions and access 29.3 Prevent damage to public utilities 29.4 Protect construction personnel safety 29.5 Contain any damage to private property to agreed levels. *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Mitigation Measures • Road crossings will be planned to take place outside Transport peak periods and in one continuous construction cycle, Mitigation measures recommended to reduce the effects of where practicable. transport network disturbances include: • Open cut roads will be reinstated to the satisfaction of • Equipment and material transport routes and storage areas the local authorities. will be planned in consultation with local and state author- • Where practicable,shuttle buses will be used to transport ities to minimise disruption to residents and industry. personnel to worksites. • Delivery of project related equipment will be planned to • Project related traffic will drive at slow speeds near resi- occur during daylight hours,where practicable. dences. • A traffic safety management plan will be implemented • Temporary gates will be erected across easements at all that addresses the use of safety vehicles signs and flagmen. roads to reduce illegal entry. • Project related equipment will be stockpiled in close prox- • Where practical project equipment will be stockpiled imity to main roads to reduce impacts to unmade roads. close to main roads. • Where practicable, sealed road crossings will be bored to minimise disruptions.

123 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Public Utilities presented in this section and a copy of the assessment is Mitigation measures recommended to reduce the effects of included in Appendix 4. A detailed risk assessment will be public utilities disturbances include: carried out before construction in accordance with AS • close liaison with utility companies to identify existing 2885.1 – 1997. overhead and buried cables,lines,pipes,water mains • obtain standard clearance from services from various In accordance with AS 2885,a combination of physical and authorities procedural measures will be applied to ensure the pipeline • incorporating services onto “line lists”(see Section 5.2) design and management meet appropriate safety standards. • preventative flagging to mark the location of services and infrastructure Objectives • appropriate earthing of equipment and pipe at estab- The preliminary risk assessment and the subsequent devel- lished intervals,and opment of procedures are in accordance with AS 2885.1- • where possible, transmission easements will be crossed at 1997 (Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum,Part 1:Design or near 90 degrees and well away from structures. and Construction). The risk assessment is based on the pipeline design parameters as outlined in Chapter 3, in Private Property addition to potential risk locations and processes identified Mitigation measures recommended to reduce impacts to for the SEA Gas Project. private property include: • close liaison with all affected landowners The principle objectives of the risk assessment are: • pre-construction agreement of the type and extent of • to identify the threats to the pipeline and associated facil- impact to occur ities and evaluate the consequence of loss of integrity • appropriate notation on the line list of agreed impacts or (considering the location of each threat) modifications,and • to incorporate design, operational and maintenance • pre-construction agreement regarding strategies, and requirements in line with AS 2885.1 to ensure risk level responsibilities for rectification of, or compensation for, associated with threats is sufficiently dealt with (incorpo- damage. rating use of procedures) • to determine remaining unmitigated threats which may result in pipeline integrity loss and an associated 11.5 Public Safety and Risk hazardous event • to determine the frequency and consequence of a Pipelines are recognised as a safe and efficient means of hazardous event,and transporting natural gas. However, all developments • to implement necessary measures and/or procedures present some level of risk. As part of the preliminary engi- which will reduce the risk ranking to low or negligible neering, a preliminary pipeline risk assessment and has and ensure that a risk level As Low As Reasonably been completed by the Project’s engineering consultants, Practicable (ALARP) is achieved. Brown and Root. Summary details of the assessment are

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 15.a To incorporate design, operational and maintenance requirements in line with AS 2885.1 to ensure risk level associated with threats is sufficiently dealt, that is, As Low As Reasonably Practicable Operation 32.a To incorporate operational and maintenance requirements in line with AS 2885.1 to ensure risk level associated with threats is sufficiently dealt, that is, As Low As Reasonably Practicable 34.a To minimise and manage the occurrence of third party damage to the pipeline, risks to public health and safety 34.c To adequately ensure the security of production or supply of natural gas 35.a To ensure that all emergency responses are immediate, to reduce the severity of any emergency gas release and to follow existing procedures whilst maintaining public and personnel safety as a priority *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

124 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

Goals The principal management goals are to:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 15.1 To satisfactorily mitigate all risks through the adoption of the requirements under AS2885.1 Operation 32.1 To satisfactorily mitigate all risks through the adoption of the requirements under AS2885.1 34.1 To effectively manage third party operations in close proximity to the easement in accordance with AS 2885.1 34.2 To effectively maintain pipeline markers and safety signage during operations 34.3 To adequately protect public safety during uncontrolled releases and other unplanned incidents 34.4 To adequately reduce the likelihood of fire associated with uncontrolled releases and other unplanned incidents 35.1 To adequately respond to unplanned emergency incidents 35.2 To adequately protect public safety during emergency responses, uncontrolled releases and other unplanned incidents 29.5 To adequately reduce the likelihood of fire associated with uncontrolled releases and other unplanned incidents *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

11.5.1 Risk Methodology as well as threats due to unsatisfactory design, construction, materials and operations. Threats due to natural events such as Preliminary risk assessment was undertaken in accordance erosion and lightning are also considered. with AS 2885.1,where the process is summarised as follows: • location analysis The protection methods available to SEA Gas are broadly • threat identification described in Table 11-7. • threat analysis and mitigation 11.5.2 Results • failure analysis and risk evaluation,and • risk management. The preliminary risk assessment identified a number of threats, which can only be reviewed in the final risk assess- Threat Identification ment, as they must be assessed with respect to location. The threat identification process identifies all threats to the This final risk assessment will be carried out in accordance pipeline at all locations along its length. A threat to the with AS 2885.1 – 1997,and will result in the application of pipeline can be assumed to include any element which can physical and procedural measures to ensure that the potentially cause pipeline failure, including threats due to pipeline design, construction, operation and maintenance location (including crossing and land use segments) and meet appropriate safety standards. general threats common to the entire system (for example, corrosion). 11.6 Waste Management

The location analysis considered land use related activities Relatively small amounts of domestic and industrial wastes (for example, irrigated grazing, forestry, heavy industrial, will be generated during construction and operation. vineyards, recreation) and crossing segments (for example, main sealed roads,rail crossings,utilities and waterways). 11.6.1 Impact Mitigation

Threat Analysis and Mitigation Objective All identified threats will be mitigated through the adoption The principal management objective of the SEA Gas Project of the requirements under AS2885.1. Mitigation considers with respect to waste management is to minimise impacts of threats due to external interference (deliberate and accidental) waste management to the environment and third parties.

125 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 14.a To effectively minimise and manage all waste generated during construction 14.b To dispose of all waste in an appropriate manner Operation 30.a To effectively minimise and manage all waste generated during operations and to dispose of all waste in an appropriate manner *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are to:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 14.1 To have a limited effect on the environment of the local area. 14.2 To ensure all personnel are aware of appropriate waste minimisation and management protocols Operation 32.1 To have a limited effect on the environment of the local area. 34.1 To ensure all personnel are aware of appropriate waste minimisation and management protocols. *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Table 11-7: Pipeline Protection Safety Measures Methods Measures Description Physical Burial The entire pipeline will be buried at depth in accordance with AS2885.1. Measure Barrier/Slab Crash barriers and concrete slabs will be adopted where risks are not sufficiently mitigated (for example, within railway easements). Exclusion Fences will be installed where necessary to limit access by unauthorised personnel. Wall thickness Wall thickness is increased where higher levels of risk to pipeline integrity exists or the consequences of rupture is considered unacceptable (for example, populous centres) Barrier to Other physical barriers may be used to protect the pipeline such as Penetration coating or encasing. Procedural Liaison – Organisations, such as councils, utility or major agriculture/community Measure Contractors groups that may present a threat to the pipeline will be contacted. Marker Signs Pipeline signs will be posted in accordance with AS 2885.1 (Clause 4.2.5.4. (a)(ii) Marker Tape Marking tape will be used for the entire length of the pipeline. Liaison – Landowners will be contacted on an ongoing basis throughout Project Landholders development, construction and operation. One-call Project incorporated in a one call network for efficient processing of public inquiries and enabling an effective pipeline reporting mechanism. Patrolling Quarterly patrolling of the entire route throughout the life of the pipeline.

126 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues

Mitigation Measures • storage and handling of chemicals will be conducted in Specific mitigation and procedural measures to achieve the accordance with Section 11.7,and objectives and goals include: • on completion of each section of the pipeline, all waste • prior to the commencement of any waste producing material will be removed from the worksite. activities, specific waste management strategies will be developed for each waste stream based on the principles of “Reduce,Reuse,Recycle”and appropriate disposal 11.7 Hazardous Storage, Spill and • the workforce induction program will inform site Emergency Response Management personnel of the required waste management procedures • hazardous wastes,such as solvents,rust proofing agents and A variety of chemicals may be required on-site for the primer, will be managed in accordance with the require- construction of the SEA Gas Project. These include fuel, ments of relevant legislation and industry standards lube oils,solvents,rust proofing agents and primer. Potential • all personnel will be instructed in project waste manage- impacts include contamination to soils and water resources ment practices as a component of the environmental and other environmentally sensitive values. Such impacts induction process have been detailed in Sections 6,7 and 9 respectively. • all hydrotest water will be disposed of in accordance with the Construction EMP 11.7.1 Impact Mitigation • contractors will place a high emphasis on housekeeping and cleanliness at the site. All work areas will be main- Objective tained in a neat and orderly manner The principal management objective of the SEA Gas • hydrocarbon wastes,including lube oils,will be collected Project with respect to hazardous storage and spill response for safe transport off-site for reuse,recycling,treatment or is to minimise impacts of accidental exposure to the envi- disposal at approved locations,and ronment and third parties.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 13.a To appropriately prevent, minimise and manage adverse impacts and long term environmental risk as a result of spill events 13.b In the event of a spill, to appropriately remediate site location Operation 31.a To prevent, minimise and manage spills occurring and during operations. 31.b To appropriately monitor remediated spill locations (where applicable) *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

Goals The principal management goals are to:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 13.1 To ensure the storage and distribution of hazardous materials and fuels during construction, so as to prevent spillage and contamination 13.2 To ensure personnel are trained in spill prevention and response procedures 13.3 To liaise with relevant emergency services Operation 32.1 To ensure the storage and distribution of hazardous materials and fuels during operation, preventing spillage and contamination 34.1 To ensure personnel are trained in spill prevention and response procedures *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

127 Chapter 11: Socio-Economic Issues SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures recommended to reduce the effects of hazardous substances and spill events to the environment and third parties include: • hazardous material will not be stored or drained onto the ground or onto watercourses or floodplains • all fuels and hazardous materials used on-site will be appropriately stored (bunding as per regulatory guidelines) • vehicles and machinery will not be refuelled within 50m of a floodplain or watercourse • materials and equipment required to respond to a hazardous spill will be readily available • appropriate implementation of cleanup/spill response procedures in the event of a spill • material Safety Data Sheets to be kept for each chemical used on-site and at a location that is easily accessible 24 hrs per day,and • all personnel will be instructed in Project prevention, safety and response practices as a component of the environmental induction process.

11.8 Conclusion

The assessment of the potential social and economic implications of the SEA Gas Project has identified a range of additional regional benefits associated with employment, increased gas supply and stimulus for other sectors. The need to protect existing land use activities,third party infrastructure, and visual amenity has been identified. SEA Gas is confident that with the application of appropriate management strategies, regional communities will receive significant economic benefits and any negative socio- economic impacts can be avoided or reduced to an acceptable level.

128 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Part III – Conclusions

129 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

130 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 12: Consultaton

12 Consultation

SEA Gas Project personnel have actively sought stake- affect them. It is also because the involvement of the holder input to the environmental assessment process. This community results in a “better”project, one that is subject chapter details the ongoing consultation strategy of the to fewer delays and is more likely to be accepted and proposed SEA Gas Project,highlighting the key issues to be understood. managed. In particular,it documents: Consultation with stakeholders during the planning phase • consultation activities undertaken in preparing this of a project allows for early assessment of potential impacts document and assists in the development of appropriate mitigation • stakeholder groups consulted measures and further route refinement. The consultative • issues raised,and process allows an exchange of information and provides an • the SEA Gas Project responses. opportunity to promote understanding and resolution of competing interests. Consultation to date has been specific to the initial planning and approvals phase of the SEA Gas Project. However,SEA A systematic approach was adapted for the consultation Gas recognises that consultation is an ongoing process and process to ensure key groups were identified and an shall continue to facilitate discussion with all stakeholders informative method of consultation adopted. This was throughout the duration of the Project. important to ensure interested parties were provided with sufficient information to understand and assess the impact of the proposed SEA Gas Project on their area of interest, 12.1 Approach and Rationale and facilitate co-operation and communication in resolving any issues. The SEA Gas Project has placed a high priority on communication with key stakeholders including landowners/occupiers, government representatives, and 12.2 Objectives and Goals community interests. Objective An effective consultation program is an essential part of any The principal management objective is to effectively new project. This is partly because communities are communicate with all key landholders, stakeholders and increasingly interested in development projects and may other interested parties throughout the entire development wish to be involved in activities which have the potential to of the SEA Gas Project.

Project Phase Objectives* Construction 16.a To identify and satisfy stakeholders need for information by establishing and maintaining effective two-way communication and resolution of issues during construction Operation 33.a To identify and satisfy stakeholders need for information by establishing and maintaining effective two-way communication and resolution of issues during operations *Note: Objectives have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

131 Chapter 12: Consultation SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Goals The principal goals of the SEA Gas Project consultation program are:

Project Phase Goal* Construction 16.1 To ensure local communities and key stakeholders are aware of the SEA Gas Project and the associated assessment and approval process 16.2 To identify issues and concerns to provide the opportunity for them to be addressed during project planning, assessment and design 16.3 To provide opportunities for community and stakeholder input to the environmental impact assessment process 16.4 To provide a mechanism to ensure that SEA Gas’ consideration of stakeholder issues is reported back to the community with further consultation as required 16.5 To establish all necessary agreements with landholders directly affected by construction and operation of the SEA Gas Project Operation 33.1 To provide a mechanism to ensure that landholders and other parties are able to contact SEA Gas regarding operational issues *Note: Goals have been numbered to enable cross-referencing in the South Australian SEO.

The guiding principles underpinning the consultation A comprehensive list of stakeholder contacts is detailed in program are: Appendix 5. • to identify and satisfy the community’s need for information • to avoid confusion by presenting information clearly, 12.4 Methods openly and in a coordinated manner • to be open about all issues Seven broad groups of stakeholders were identified • to ensure there are no surprises,and (Section 12.3) and methods of consultation were selected • to establish and maintain effective two-way communica- to suit the interests and requirements of each of these tion. groups. Methods included: • press releases • meetings 12.3 Key Stakeholders • site visits • letters/facsimiles The following stakeholders were identified as having a • information brochures,and direct interest in the construction and installation of the • Website ( www.seagas.com.au). SEA Gas Project, and were consulted as part of the environmental assessment process: SEA Gas aimed to directly involve stakeholders at an early • politicians/Ministers (Commonwealth, Victorian and stage of project planning and shall continue throughout South Australian) construction to ensure all potential concerns are identified • regulatory agencies (Commonwealth, Victorian and and appropriately addressed. All stakeholder correspon- South Australian) dence has been documented on a Project Communication • local government (Victorian and South Australian) Register to ensure that issues are appropriately addressed. • private landowners / occupiers and utilities operators • non-government organisations The proposed consultation schedule for each phase of the • Aboriginal heritage groups and native title claimants,and project in relation to each stakeholder group is described in • the general public and media. Table 12-1.

132 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 12: Consultation

Table 12-1: Consultation Phases – Key Issues Phase I Phase II Phase III Phase IV (Environmental Approvals) (Pre-construction) (Construction) (Operation) • Introduction of the • Secondary • Environmental training • Environmental Project environmental • Site specific inspection • Route selection approvals (watercourse environmental issues • Environmental auditing crossings) • Environmental Impact • Landholder / occupier: • Rehabilitation of Assessment • Landholder / occupier access and rehabilitation easement • Landholder / occupier: compensation • Environmental access & option agreements compliance agreements • Detailed Environmental • Pipeline License and Management Plans Permit

12.5 Outcomes enabled project feedback and facilitated constructive and open channels of communication between the stakeholder 12.5.1 Ministers groups and the SEA Gas Project team.

SEA Gas coordinated political briefings to ensure Ministers Specific issues raised during consultation meetings have were provided with detailed information regarding the been addressed in greater detail in Part II of this document, proposed Project. Additional information and presentation ‘Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation’. These material has also been forwarded to relevant political issues include meeting EPA noise and air quality guide- advisers. lines, managing dust, protecting watercourses, sediment and erosion control, protecting grassland communities and SEA Gas will keep Ministers briefed on the Project during minimising impact to the red tailed black cockatoo. all stages of the impact assessment and development process. 12.5.3 Local Government

12.5.2 Regulatory Authorities SEA Gas met with council officers to discuss various aspects of the Project, including general briefings, A series of telephone discussions, meetings, and informa- landowner/occupier details, socioeconomic assessment tion brochures were provided to regulatory authorities, and environmental assessment. A series of telephone both in rural and urban areas, to facilitate open communi- discussions, meetings, and information brochures were cation, dissemination of information and encourage feed- provided to local government authorities (South Australian back. These agencies provided valuable input in identifying Councils and Victorian Shires), both in rural and urban environmental concerns and providing local knowledge of areas. The local government offices provided good access the Project area. to the local communities and knowledge of the Project area. The process of providing information to the Minister for Planning to determine whether an Environment Effects Local government agencies have been particularly inter- Statement under the Environment Effects Act is required, ested in the potential positive economic “spin-offs” the involves a screening meeting organised by the Department Project may generate in their area,particular with regard to of Infrastructure. A pipeline route inspection was also employment opportunities (see Chapter 11). The potential organised. Regulatory agencies, catchment management for the SEA Gas project to supply natural gas reticulation to authorities, local shire councils, and Aboriginal groups rural areas has also been queried. At this stage, SEA Gas is were invited to attend. The Department of Infrastructure seeking approval for the main gas pipeline to link Port sought comment from these groups regarding the potential Campbell and Adelaide. However,potential lateral pipeline issues associated with the SEA Gas Project and this infor- development projects will be reviewed at a later date, mation was used by the Minister to determine the appro- subject to community, economic and environmental priate level of assessment for the Project. The process also considerations.

133 Chapter 12: Consultation SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

12.5.4 Land owners / Occupiers Victoria Prior to the commencement of the field study, notices of SEA Gas representatives have held several discussions with intent to survey were submitted to the Heritage Services landowners and occupiers to facilitate communications Branch, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. Advice was subse- and establish a pipeline easement. Components of this quently received as to which Aboriginal communities hold process include the acquisition of Options, access arrange- responsibility for cultural heritage matters within the Project ments and landholder compensation agreements. Land use area (prescribed under the terms of the Commonwealth types and associated landholder issues have necessitated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act minor route deviations, construction management 1984). These include Framlingham Aboriginal Trust and the constraints (that is, right-of-way restrictions or manage- Kerrup-Jmara Elders Aboriginal Corporation. ment) and/or easement reinstatement requirements (that is,specific to land use type). Contact was made with both groups as well as the Regional Coordinator for the South West Cultural Personnel are consulting with landowners and occupiers Heritage Region. Representatives from both groups were on an individual basis and will continue to be available to invited to participate in the survey. In addition, a meeting discuss concerns, negotiate easements and provide Project with the Framlingham Aboriginal Trust was held to discuss information as required. the Project in more detail. Heritage groups requested they remain active members of the consultative process and be This ongoing process aims to keep all landowners satisfied informed of relevant project issues and progress. with the Project and address any concerns or queries that may arise. Copies of the draft report were sent to both groups for comment and a copy was also sent to the Regional 12.5.5 Non-Government Organisations Coordinator for the South West Cultural Heritage Region for their records and information. Several non-government organisations have been consulted to date, predominantly via telephone (see The Victorian section of the proposed alignment intersects Appendix 5). However,in some instances follow-up meet- the Gournditch-Mara Native Title Claim. Consultation ings were held. Information sheets were forwarded to will be a comprehensive and ongoing process. these organisations and a commitment given to continue to include these organisations in the consultation process, South Australia particularly as it progresses from the approvals phase to pre- Prior to the commencement of the fieldwork, the State construction planning and the development of detailed Aboriginal Heritage Committee, Department of State Environmental Management Plans. Aboriginal Affairs (DOSAA) was contacted to obtain details of relevant Aboriginal organisations to consult. The majority of issues raised by these Organisations will be Advice was received for the following groups to be addressed by refining the pipeline route to avoid sensitive included in the study: areas wherever possible and by applying industry environ- • Kaurna Meyunna Inc. mental codes of practice and environmental management • Kungari Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Association plans to minimise and where possible avoid impact. • Mannum Aboriginal Community Association • Ngarrindjeri Heritage Committee,and SEA Gas has also established a website where project infor- • Tattyara Aboriginal Heritage Consultancy. mation will continue to be displayed and updated as the Project progresses. The Chairperson of each of these groups was contacted to discuss the Project and to invite representatives to partici- 12.5.6 Aboriginal Heritage Group and pate in the field survey. Heritage groups requested they Native Title Claimants remain active members of the consultative process and be informed of relevant project issues and progress. Archaeologists and Aboriginal community representatives were employed during field survey and assessment to assist Copies of the heritage report were forwarded to all groups in the identification and protection of Aboriginal sites. and to DOSAA,with copies of completed site cards.

134 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 12: Consultation

The South Australian section of the proposed alignment • avoids wetlands near Poolaijelo intersects two native title claims, the Ngarrindjeri and • avoids areas of land slip and eroding soils Others, and the Kaurna Peoples Native Title Claim. • avoids known heritage sites,and Consultation will be a comprehensive ongoing process. • minimises impacts to affected communities (that is, location of road crossings). Further survey Prior to commencement of Project works, further survey The consultation process has also identified further works will be undertaken along the easement,particularly in areas to be undertaken, including Aboriginal monitoring prior of known heritage sensitivities. At the time of the field to construction, additional presentations to community survey the Ngarrindjeri Heritage Committee was still groups, establishment of a 24-hour telephone contact line discussing the Project. As they have a Memorandum of during construction, and involvement of conservation Understanding with the Ngarrindjeri and Others Native groups in rehabilitation activities. Title Claim, it is likely that these two groups will wish to A summary of consultation undertaken and key issues participate jointly in future surveys. identified is presented on a state by state basis in Tables 12-2 and 12-3. SEA Gas also held meetings with representatives The South East Nungas Community Organisation, based from Commonwealth Government agencies, including at Mount Gambier, considered the Project area to be Environment Australia. Key issues discussed included outside of their area of concern but requested that they be pipeline route selection,and the potential need to prepare a kept informed of the outcomes of the study. referral document under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act,1999. Copies of the draft report were sent to all groups for comment.

12.5.7 Media and Public

The SEA Gas website provides 24-hour public access to Project information, which will be progressively added to and updated as appropriate.

SEA Gas has released press statements throughout the planning phase of the Project and will continue to do so during the development phase. In addition, SEA Gas personnel have spoken to local media, both press and radio, and provided Project information on request.

12.6 Summary

SEA Gas will continue to facilitate discussion with all stakeholders throughout the duration of the Project. The results of consultation undertaken so far have been positive, with feedback incorporated into route selection, project design and environmental management procedures. In particular, input from key stakeholders has resulted in the selection of a pipeline route which: • avoids significant flora,fauna and ecosystems • avoids large stands of remnant vegetation and fragmentation of communities • locates watercourse crossings that will minimise environmental impact

135 Chapter 12: Consultation SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 12-2: Victorian Stakeholder Consultation Stakeholder Consultation Method/s Issues Raised Ministers Project briefing • Appropriate level of Project information provided • Due process followed for assessment of the Project Regulatory Agencies Telephone discussions • Consultation with Aboriginal heritage groups Aboriginal Affairs • Avoidance of heritage sites Victoria • Reporting of assessment Catchment Management Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Boards Onsite inspection • Watercourse crossings techniques Information sheets • Watercourse crossing approvals Telephone discussions • Weed management • Sediment and erosion management Department of Natural Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Resources and Onsite inspection • Ensure Native Title negotiations are given appropriate Environment (DNRE) Information sheets consideration Minerals and Petroleum Telephone discussions • Impact to significant ecosystems • Impact to local communities DNRE Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Environment officers1 Onsite inspection • Watercourse crossing techniques Information sheets • Weed management Telephone discussions • Impact to grasslands • Impact to red tailed black cockatoo • Impact to remnant roadside vegetation • Wetlands near Poolaijelo (Brolga habitats) Department of Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Infrastructure Onsite inspection • Ensure appropriate briefing of regional regulatory Information sheets officers Telephone discussions • Potential impact to significant ecosystems, flora and fauna • Potential impact to watercourse crossings • Potential impacts to Aboriginal heritage • Ensure adequate consultation with local Aboriginal community groups Local Government Project briefing • Potential economic benefits to Shire Shire Offices Information sheet • Potential for local employment Telephone discussions • Possibility of gas reticulation to Shire municipality • Environmental assessment process • Timing of construction Landholder / Occupiers Individual consultation • Ensure appropriate route selection Information sheet • Timing of construction • Access Non – Government Telephone discussion • Ensure appropriate route selection Organisations Information sheets • Protection of remnant flora • Management of weeds and soil pathogens • Impact to watercourse crossings Aboriginal Heritage Project briefing • Avoidance of heritage sites Groups / Native Title Onsite inspection • Using Aboriginal monitors Claimants Information sheets Telephone discussion Media and Public Melbourne press release • Pipeline route location Local press release • Environmental assessment process Radio interviews • Potential for local employment • Potential for gas reticulation to regional areas

1 Includes: National Parks & Wildlife, Environmental Protection Authority, Coastal 136 Managment, Flora, Fauna and Fisheries. SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 12: Consultaton

Table 12-3: South Australian Stakeholder Consultation Stakeholder Consultation Method/s Issues Raised Ministers Project briefing • Appropriate level of Project information provided • Due process followed for assessment of the Project Regulatory Agencies: Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Catchment Water Onsite inspection • Watercourse crossings techniques Management Boards Information sheets • Watercourse crossing approvals Telephone discussions • Weed management • Sediment and erosion management Department of Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Environment and Onsite inspection • Watercourse crossing techniques Heritage2 Information sheets • Noise levels Telephone discussions • Control of Dust • Air Quality • Weed management • Impact to grasslands Stakeholder Consultation Method/s• Impact to remnant Issues roadside Raised vegetation Department of State Telephone discussions • Consultation with Aboriginal Heritage groups Aboriginal Affairs • Avoidance of heritage sites • Reporting of assessment Primary Industries and Project briefing • Ensure appropriate route selection Resources South Australia Onsite inspection • Ensure appropriate briefing of regional regulatory (PIRSA) Information sheets officers Telephone discussions • Minimise impact to significant ecosystems • Ensure adequate consultation • Ensure appropriate consideration given to soil management PIRSA • Ensure appropriate route selection Regional Offices3 • Impact to significant ecosystems • Control of weeds and soil pathogens • Sediment and Erosion control • Impact to watercourse crossings Local Government Project briefing • Potential economic benefits to Shire Council Offices Information sheet • Potential for local employment Telephone discussions • Possibility of gas reticulation to Shire municipality • Environmental assessment process • Timing of construction • Rehabilitation of easement • 24 hour contact number during construction Landholder / Occupiers Individual consultation • Ensure appropriate route selection Information sheet • Access • Timing of Construction Non – Government Telephone discussions • Ensure appropriate route selection Organisations Information sheets • Protection of remnant flora • Management of weeds and soil pathogens • Impact to watercourse crossings Aboriginal Heritage Project briefing • Avoidance of heritage sites Groups / Native Title Onsite inspection • Aboriginal monitors utilised Claimants Information sheets Telephone discussions Media and Public Melbourne press • Pipeline route location release • Environmental assessment process Local press release • Potential for local employment Radio interviews • Potential for gas reticulation to regional areas

2 Includes: National Parks & Wildlife Services, Environmental 137 Protection Authority, Native Vegetation. 3 Includes: Forestry, Fisheries. SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

138 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 13: Commitments

13 Commitments

The preceding chapters have outlined the SEA Gas Project • to monitor critical areas post-construction to ensure site and the environmental protection and management meas- stability and successful rehabilitation progress ures to be implemented during the planning, construction and operational phases of the Project. SEA Gas is committed • to rectify any rehabilitation or stability problems identi- to responsible environmental management, and to fulfilling fied during the monitoring program the responsibilities and commitments made in the EER/EIR. This chapter presents a summary of the environ- • to carry out a post-construction environmental audit of mental management commitments made by SEA Gas. the pipeline,and rectify any identified problems,and

SEA Gas commits to the following: • to address any damage caused to roads, bridges, property infrastructure or any other private property caused by • to comply with all statutory laws and regulations, construction or associated activities. permit/licence requirements and industry Codes of Practice

• to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals prior to construction

• to design and construct the pipeline in accordance with the Australian Pipeline Code AS 2885 and in a manner that protects public safety

• to conduct further targeted fieldwork to assist in the development of site specific management strategies

• to prepare and adhere to a Project specific Statement of Environmental Objectives

• to prepare, implement and adhere to a Project specific Construction Environmental Management Plan during the detailed design phase

• to prepare Alignment Sheets and Line List during the detailed design phase that detail all site specific environmental management measures to be adopted during construction

• to ensure an appropriate environmental induction and education program is implemented to instruct construction workers regarding the environmental management measures and requirements to be adopted during the construction phase of the Project

• to keep all stakeholders, (government officers, local community,landholders, aboriginal groups and interest groups) appropriately informed of the Project’s progress and relevant environmental management issues

139 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

140 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Chapter 14: Conclusion

14 Conclusions

The SEA Gas Project is an important new energy develop- • disruption to public and private infrastructure will be ment that will increase the security of gas supply for both avoided where practicable and where such interference is South Australia and Victoria. The $250 million project will necessary it will be localised, small scale and managed in help alleviate South Australia’s predicted energy shortages consultation with the owner,and and provide new opportunities for gas powered develop- • public safety will be protected. ments, such as the proposed SAMAG magnesium smelter. The completion of the Adelaide – Melbourne – Sydney SEA Gas has developed a Project specific SEO to demon- pipeline ring main will facilitate increased competition and strate and to ensure the manner in which objectives and reduce gas prices. goals will be achieved. In addition, SEA Gas will integrate environmental management principles and procedures The Project will stimulate significant regional gas develop- during the detailed design and construction processes. In ments such as the Minerva,Yolla,Geographe and Thylacine particular, SEA Gas will prepare a Construction projects with an estimated value of more than $1 billion. Environmental Management Plan, which will outline the Interstate gas exports will earn Victoria an additional $107 environmental objectives,role and responsibilities for envi- million per annum and the regional economies along the ronmental management, site specific environmental pipeline route will benefit from the injection of up to $42 management procedures, training programs and moni- million during construction. toring,auditing and reporting systems.

The pipeline corridor has been selected to avoid all conser- SEA Gas firmly believes that the Project offers numerous vation parks and reserves, remnant vegetation, areas of and substantial community benefits that significantly instability, sites of cultural significance and sensitive land outweigh any potential adverse environmental or social uses, wherever practicable. Specialist studies have impacts. concluded that with the application of appropriate design standards, engineering controls and environmental management measures, no significant adverse impacts are expected. In particular,SEA Gas is confident that: • erosion and sedimentation will be adequately controlled • potential impacts associated with acid sulphate soils will be mitigated • localised terrain constraints will be managed • adverse impacts to groundwater will be reduced to an acceptable level • watercourses will be protected • air and noise emissions will meet regulatory requirements • ecological values will be protected and significant impacts to rare and endangered species and communities will be avoided • sites of indigenous and non-indigenous cultural heritage importance will be managed in consultation with community representatives and in accordance with a strict protocol • disturbance to sensitive land uses such as dairying, forestry, viticulture, residential and recreation will be successfully minimised and where practicable avoided • landowners will be suitably compensated for any unavoidable impact

141 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

142 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Acknowledgements

Acknowledgements

Preparation of this document has been a combined effort led by Ecos Consulting (Aust) with significant support from SEA Gas Management, the SEA Gas Project Team and specialist environmental consultants. The key con- tributors are listed below:

SEA Gas Project Team

Company Role

SEA Gas...... Project management and coordination

Ecos Consulting (Aust)...... Lead environmental consultant Stakeholder consultation Regulatory affairs

Brown and Root ...... Engineering GIS and mapping

Maloney Field Services...... Land owner liaison Refinement of pipeline alignment Easement acquisition

Fyfe Surveyors...... Survey Refinement of pipeline alignment

Johnson Winter Slattery ...... Legal advisors

Specialist Environmental Consultants to SEA Gas

Company Study

Enviromet Meteorological Consultants ...... Air Emissions Consulting Air pollution Modelling & Meteorology

Ecos Consulting (Aust)...... Climate Hydrology Land Use, Infrastructure and Planning

Vivienne Wood Heritage Consultant ...... Cultural Heritage

Ecology Australia ...... Ecology Soils and Terrain

Stephen Pugh Hydrogeologist ...... Hydrology

Watson Moss Growcott Acoustics...... Noise emissions

Saturn Corporate Services...... Socio-Economic Issues Greenhouse gas emissions

143 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

144 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Abbreviations

Abbreviations

% Percentage AAV Aboriginal Affairs Victoria AGA Australian Gas Association APIA Australian Pipeline Industry Association Inc ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council bbls Barrels BHPP BHP Petroleum Pty Ltd BCA Business Council of Australia CAMBA China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan CMA Catchment Management Authority CCSA Conservation Council of South Australia CO Carbon Monoxide CWMB Catchment Water Management Board dB(A) Decibels DEH Department of Environment and Heritage (South Australia) DNRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment (Victoria) DOI Department of Infrastructure (Victoria) DOSAA Department of State Aboriginal Affairs EA Environment Australia Ecos Ecos Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd EER Environmental Effects Report EES Environmental Effects Statement EIR Environmental Impact Report prepared in accordance with Section 97 of the Petroleum Act 2000 and Regulation 10. EMP Environment Management Plan EMS Environmental Management System EPA Environment Protection Authority (Victoria), Environment Protection Agency (South Australia) EPBC Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ERP Emergency Response Plan EVC Ecological Vegetation Class FFG Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Victoria) FVC Floristic Vegetation Community GCO Greenhouse Challenge Office GHCMA Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority GHG Greenhouse gas GJ Gigajoule (109 Joules) GLC Ground Level Concentrations ha Hectares hrs Hours ILUA Indigenous Land Use Agreement

145 Abbreviations SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

JAMBA Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement kg Kilogram kg of CO2e/GJ Kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents per gigajoule km Kilometre KP Kilometre Points kPa Kilopascal kph Kilometres per hour kt of CO2 Kilotonnes of carbon dioxide kV Kilovolt kW Kilowatt l Litre LPG Liquid Petroleum Gas m Metre m2 Square metres mg/l Milligrams per litre mm Millimetre MPV Minerals and Petroleum Victoria Mt Mount MW Megawatt NASAA National Association for Sustainable Agriculture NCS Nature Conservation Society NE North East

NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide NPW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (South Australia) NPWS National Parks and Wildlife Service ºC Degrees Celsius PEL Petroleum Exploration Licence PIRSA Primary Industries and Resources, South Australia PJ Petajoules (1015 Joules) PJ/a Petajoules per annum PJ/GWh Petajoules per Gigawatt hour ppm Parts per million Pt Port RGWA River Glades Wetlands Association ROW Right-of-way Scada System Control and Data Acquisition SCB Soil Conservation Board sec Seconds SEO Statement of Environmental Objectives SSD Statistical Sub-division syn. Synonymous TJ Terajoules (1012 Joules) TJ/d Terajoules per day TSA Transport SA

146 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Glossary

Glossary battered – Recontoured to provide a stable angle of slope. which the pipeline is filled with water and the pressure increased and monitored under controlled conditions. bellhole – An enlarged area of trench. karst depression – A depression formed by groundwater berms – Banks of soil placed on slopes to prevent erosion. dissolving underlying limestone in regions where it is exposed at or near the surface. bund – An earth, rock or concrete wall constructed to prevent the inflow or outflow of liquids. kilometre point – The approximate distance along the proposed alignment from the beginning of the pipeline. cathodic protection system – Application of an electrical current to the pipeline exterior to prevent the line list – A document for construction contractors electrochemical process of corrosion occurring. which itemises the management procedures to be undertaken and which gives site specific information for clear-and-grade – The preparation of the right of way for field operators. vehicular movement, trenching and other construction activities, involving clearing vegetation and other lunette – A crescent-shaped dune formed on the shore- obstacles from the right of way, grading topsoil to the line of a lake or playa (ephemeral lake) by the interaction edge of the right of way, and creating a safe working of wind, waves and currents. surface (and slope) for construction. mainline valves – Valves located in the pipeline at compressor station – Facility where gas is compressed and intervals along its length. reinjected into the pipeline. meter stations – Facility where the flow of gas is corridor – The area of study used for the EER/EIR measured, particularly where gas is to be reticulated or within which the pipeline alignment is to be transferred to local gas users. determined. The pre-feasibility studies used a 20km corridor around a preliminary alignment, and the padding – Fine grained soil placed in the trench to EER/EIR used a 100m wide corridor around a protect the pipeline coating from rock damage. preliminary alignment. pig – A tool which is inserted into the pipeline and easement – A right held by the proponent to make use carried by the gas flow to clean the pipe wall, separate of the land for the installation and operation of a the gas, or inspect the pipeline. pipeline. Also referred to as a right of way. pipeline alignment – The exact position of the pipeline fugitive emissions – Substances that escape to air from a (or easement) within the corridor. source not associated with a particular process, such as leaks from equipment. purging – Removing all air from the pipeline, using gas. geofabric – Fabric for placing on ground surfaces to radiography – Non-destructive examination of pipeline minimise erosion. welds using X-ray to detect any defects grading – Levelling of the right of way using graders, right of way – A cleared area approximately 25 metres backhoes and bulldozers. wide required to install the pipeline.Also referred to as an easement. ground level concentration – Measured or estimated concentration of a pollutant at ground level. scraper station – An above ground facility used to launch and receive pigs which have been inserted into the horizontal directional drilling – One method by which a pipeline system. pipeline trench is drilled at a shallow angle under a crossing (ie a stream bed, major road, some geological shading – Fine grained soil placed in the trench after the features) through which the pipe is threaded. pipe has been lowered in the trench to protect the sides and top of the pipe from abrasion. hydrostatic testing (or hydrotesting) – A means to check the pipeline for strength and leaks prior to operation in

147 Glossary SEA Gas Project EER/EIR shore – To reinforce the sides of the trench to prevent collapse. skids – Timber blocks similar to railway sleepers used to keep the pipeline off the ground. stringing – Laying the pipe adjacent the pipeline trench. trench or sack breakers – Sandbags placed in the trench to prevent the longitudinal flow of water, which may cause subsidence over the pipeline. trench spoil – Soil from the pipeline trench. turbidity – Interference with the passage of light through water caused by suspended matter.

148 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Bibliography

Bibliography

ABARE (2000a). The Australian Farm Surveys Report Nature Conservation Agency. Endangered Species 2000. Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Program: Project Number 124.Australian Nature Economics, Canberra. Conservation Agency, Canberra.

ABARE (2000b). Australian Winegrape Production and Commonwealth of Australia (1996). The National Strategy Winery Intake Projections 2002-2003. Australian Bureau for the Conservation of Australia’s Biological Diversity. of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Canberra. Department of Envrionment, Sport and Territories.

Arnol, J.D.,White, D.M. and Hastings, I. (1984). Croft,T., Carruthers, S., Possingham, H. and Inns, B. Management of the Brolga (Grus rubicundus) in Victoria. (1999). Biodiversity Plan for the South East of South Resources and Planning Branch,Technical Series No. 5. Australia. Department for Environment, Heritage and Fisheries and Wildlife Service, Department of Aboriginal Affairs. Conservation, Forests and Lands,Victoria. Cusack, J. (1999b). Extractive industry surveys.Archaeological Australian Bureau of Statistics (1996). Census of assessments of 7 extractive industry sites within the Glenelg Population and Housing. Shire Council area: Klatt’s Pit, Morton’s Pit,Warrock’s Pit, Pullen’s Pit, Gill’s Pit, Johnston’s Pit and Stark’s Pit. A Australian Water Resources of Australia (1975). report to Glenelg Shire Council,Victoria. Groundwater Resources in Australia.Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra. Cutten, J. (1998). Distribution and abundance of Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata) in the Murray Mallee and South-east Berndt, R.M. (1941).The bark-canoe of the lower River Regions of South Australia. Nature Conservation Society of Murray, South Australia. Mankind 3:17-28. South Australia Inc.,Adelaide.

Boehm, E.F.(1948).Aboriginal marked trees in southern Dallwitz, J. and Marsden, S. (1983). Heritage of the Lower districts. The South Australian Naturalist 25:16. North. South Australian State Historic Preservation Plan. Regional Heritage Survey Series: Region 8. South Brown & Root (2000). Port River Expressway Australian Department of Environment and Planning, Environmental Report. Prepared for Transport SA, Adelaide. Adelaide. Dallwitz, J. and Marsden, S. (1987). Heritage of the River Brown,W.A. (2001). Revegetation Mt Lofty Ranges.Mt Murray. South Australian Department of Environment Lofty Ranges Catchment Centre www.pir.sa.gov.au and Planning,Adelaide.

Byrne, D. (1983). The Five Forests:An archaeological and Department of Employment,Workplace Relations and anthropological investigation. NPWS, Sydney. 2 vols. Small Business (2001). Small Area Labour Markets, Australia. Bureau of Meteorology (2001). www.bom.gov.au Duncan,A., Baker, G.B. and Montgomery, N. (1999). The Canadian Pipeline Water Crossing Committee (1999). Action Plan for Australian Bats. Environment Australia and Water Crossings. Canadian Pipeline Water Crossing Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme, Canberra, Committee. ACT.

Carr, G.W.,Todd,J.A., Race, G.J. and Belcher, C.A. Ecos (1998). Underground Gas Storage Project Environment (1992). Flora and Fauna. In: Lake Condah Heritage Effects Statement. Gas Transmission Corporation. Management Plan. (Eds. Context Pty Ltd). Ecological Horticulture Pty Ltd, Clifton Hill,Victoria. Edwards, R. (1966).Aboriginal camp-site on the Sturt River at Coromandel Valley, South Australia. Records of the Clark, I.D. (1990).Aboriginal languages and clans: an South Australian Museum 15:2:237-241. historical atlas of Western and Central Victoria, 1800- 1900. Monash Publications in Geography No. 37, Monash Ellis, R.W.(1976).The Aboriginal inhabitants and their University, Melbourne. environment. In Twidale, C.R.,Tyler, M.J. and Webb, B.P. Natural history of the Adelaide region. Royal Society of Cogger, H.G., Cameron, E.E., Sadlier, R.A. and Eggler, P. South Australia, pp. 113-120. (1993). The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles. Australian

149 Bibliography SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Environment Protection Authority (1992). Noise control Kirkpatrick, J., McDougall, K. and Hyde, M.K. (1996). guidelines. Publication TG 302/92. Victorian Our Most Threatened Ecosystems – The Ecology and Environment Protection Authority. Conservation of Lowland Native Grasslands in South Eastern Australia. World Wide Fund for Nature.Australia, Sydney. Environmental Protection Agency (1999). Construction Noise. EPA Information Sheet No. 7, September 1999. Lee,A.K. (1995). The Action Plan for Australian Rodents. Government of South Australia. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra,ACT.

Environment Protection Authority (2000). The Lester, Firth and Mutton Pty Ltd. (1981). Barossa Valley Environmental Impact of Motor Vehicle Emissions in heritage study. Lutheran Publishing House,Adelaide. Melbourne. Publication 426. Victorian Environment Protection Authority. Lourandos, H. (1977).Aboriginal spatial organisation and population: Southwest Victoria reconsidered. Archaeology Environmental Protection Agency (2000). Environmental and Physical Anthropology in Oceania 12(3):202-225. Noise. EPA Information Sheet No. 9, March 2000. Government of South Australia. Lucas, P.(1989). The anthropological significance of Aboriginal sites at Sellicks Beach. Report to the Aboriginal Heritage Foulkes, J.N. and Gillen, J.S. (Eds.) (2000). A Biological Branch Department of Environment and Planning. Survey of the Murray Mallee, South Australia. Biological Survey and Research, Department for Environment and Maxwell, S., Burbidge,A.A. and Morris, K. (Eds.) (1996). Heritage and Geographic Analysis and Research Unit, The 1996 Action Plan for Australian Marsupials and Department for Transport, Urban Planning and the Arts, Monotremes. Wildlife Australia, Canberra. Adelaide. McDonough, R. (2000). Petroleum licensing in South Gara,T. (1985). Archaeological survey of the 275kV Australia. Primary Industries and Resources South transmission line from Tailem Bend to Monbulla.A report to Australia. www.pir.sa.gov.au the Electricity Trust of South Australia. Measki, B. (2000). Farm Forestry Species for Southwest Garnett, S.T. & Crowley, G.M. (2000). The Action Plan for Victoria. Natural Resources and Environment Australian Birds 2000. Environment Australia, Canberra. Agriculture Notes, Note Series No.AGO785.

Gill,T. (1909). Some anthropological notes on the South Mount Lofty Ranges Catchment Program (2001). Australian Aborigines. Proceedings of the Royal Geographical Catchment Maps of Mt Lofty Ranges Catchment Society of Australasia, South Australian Branch 10:220-48. Program. www.mlrcp.sa.gov.au

Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority Murray Plains Soil Conservation Board (1995). Murray (2000). Draft Glenelg Hopkins Native Vegetation Plan. Plains District Plan. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria. National Environment Protection Measure (1998). National Environment Protection Measure for the National Hardie, R. (1997). Regional Catchment Strategy. Glenelg Pollution Inventory. National Environment Protection Regional Catchment and Land Protection Board. Council, Canberra.

Higgins, P.J. (Ed.) (1999). Handbook of Australian, New National Pollution Inventory (2001). National Pollution Zealand and Antarctic Birds.Volume 4: Parrots to Dollar Bird. Inventory Database. www.environment.gov.au/epg/npi Oxford University Press, Melbourne Neagle, N. (1995). An Update of the Conservation Status of Isbell, R.F.(1996). The Australian Soil Classification. the Major Plant Associations of South Australia. Native CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne. Vegetation Management Branch, Department of Environment and Land Management. Isbell, R.F.,McDonald,W.S., and Ashton. L.J. (1997). Concepts and Rationale of the Australian Soil Classification. Nelson, K.D. (1985). Design and Construction of Small ACLEP,CSIRO Land and Water, Canberra. Earth Dams. Inkata Press. Melbourne

Kahrimanis, M. J., Carruthers, S., Oppermann,A. and North Adelaide and Barossa Catchment Water Inns, B. (2001). Biodiversity Plan for the South Australian Management Board (2000). Northern Adelaide and Barossa Murray-Darling Basin. Department for Environment and Catchment Water Management Plan- Volume 1. Heritage, South Australia.

150 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Bibliography

Northcote, K.H. (1979). A factual key for the recognition of Traill, B. and Porter, C. (2001). Nature Conservation Review Australian soils. Rellim Technical Publications,Adelaide. Victoria 2001.Victorian National Parks Association, East Melbourne. Northern Hills Soil Conservation Board. (1996) Northern Hills Soils Conservation Board district plan and three year Tyler, M. J. (1997). The Action Plan for Australian Frogs. plan: guidelines for management. Environment Australia, Canberra ACT.

Phylloxera and Grape Industry Board of South Australia Victoria Resources Online (2001). www.nre.vic.gov.au (2000). The Phylloxera Prevention Protocol, June 2000 – version #2. Victorian State Government (2000). Restoring our Catchments: Victoria’s Draft Native Vegetation Management Robertson, M.A. (1998). A Biological Survey of Grasslands Framework. Department of Natural Resources and and Grassy Woodlands of the Lofty Block Bioregion of South Environment. Australia. Biological Survey and Research Heritage and Biodiversity Division, Department for Environment, Wager, R. and Jackson, P.(1993). The Action Plan for Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs, South Australia, Australian Freshwater Fishes.Australian Nature Adelaide. Conservation Agency.

Robinson,A.C., and Casperson, K.D. (2000). List of the Walker, J. (Ed.) (1986). South Australia’s heritage. State Vertebrates of South Australia. Biological Survey and Heritage Branch, Department of Environment and Research Heritage and Biodiversity Division, Planning and Government Printing Division,Adelaide. Department of Environment and Heritage, South Australia,Adelaide. Wells, R.T. (1975). Reconstructing the past – excavations in Victoria Fossil Cave. Aust. Nat. Hist. 18(6): 208-11. Rosengren, N. J. (1984). Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance in the Shire of Otway. Wells, R.T. Moriarty, K. and Williams, D.L.G. (1984).The Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands,Victoria, fossil vertebrate deposits of Victoria Fossil Cave: an Environmental Studies Publication No. 324 introduction to the geology and fauna. Aust. Zool. 21(4): 305-33. Rosengren, N. (1984). Sites of Geological and Geomorphological Significance in Gippsland Lake Catchment. Willis, J.H. (1964).Vegetation of the basalt plains of Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands,Victoria, western Victoria. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Victoria Environment Studies Publication No. 402. 77:397-418.

Rosengren, N. (2001). Proposed Pipeline Route - Geology, Wood,V.and Lance,A. (1990). Proposed Allansford – Geomorphology, Soils, Land Systems. Unpublished report to Portland gas pipeline archaeological survey.A report to the Ecos Consulting (Aust.). Gas and Fuel Corporation of Victoria, Melbourne.

South-East Catchment Water Management Board Wood,V.(2001). A study of the Indigenous and Non- (1999). Initial Catchment Water Management Plan, February Indigenous cultural heritage along the proposed SEA Gas 1999-2000. Pipeline from Iona,Victoria, to Adelaide, South Australia. Draft Report.A report to Ecos Consulting (Aust). South-East Catchment Water Management Board (2001a).Water and the South-East- Planning for a Sustainable Future, Issue Paper 1, May 2001.

South-East Catchment Water Management Board (2001b). Managing the Impacts of Land Use and Development, Issue Paper 5, May 2001.

Thackway R. and Cresswell I. (Eds.) (1995). An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia: a framework for establishing the national system of reserves.Version 4.0. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.

Tindale, N.B. (1974). Aboriginal tribes of Australia – their terrain, environmental controls, distribution limits and proper names.Australian National University Press, Canberra.

151 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

152 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix I

Appendix I

SEA Gas – Environmental Policy

A1-1 Appendix I SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A1-2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix I

South East Australia Gas Pty Ltd ACN 096 437 900 Level 13, 1 King William Street Adelaide South Australia 5000 Ph 08 8217 5859 Fax 08 8217 5858 SEA Gas – Environmental Policy

SEA Gas aims for the highest practical standard of Environmental Management by:

• Protecting the environment;

• Committing itself to the principles of ecologically sustainable development;

• Promoting environmental responsibility amongst its workforce.

SEA Gas will demonstrate this commitment by:

• Our decision-making, resource management and social responsibilities that will be undertaken in such a way to maintain our commitments to sustainable environmental performance.

• The Management Team commitment to developing a culture within the organization that believes in and practices care of the environment.

• Monitoring compliance with environmental regulations and all legal and other obligations, and to perform better than they require, where appropriate.

• Using energy, raw materials, and natural resources efficiently and in a more sustainable way through integrating environmental factors into business decisions, goals and objectives, wherever it is practicable.

• Participating in the State and National government’s Greenhouse Gas management strategies through maintaining a high level of plant efficiency, availability and maintenance practices.

• Implementing and maintaining an effective environmental management system including systematic identification of environmental risk, its management, and on-going audit that contributes to continual improvements through a sound environmental performance.

• Implement a transparent environmental review process at the Board level and report its environmental performance regularly.

• Developing a positive and constructive relationship with local communities, regulators and authorities.

• Raising the environmental awareness of SEA Gas staff and developing a culture within the Company that empowers people to carry out their environmental responsibilities effectively.

Ed Metcalfe Andrew Stock Director Director SEA Gas Pty Ltd SEA Gas Pty Ltd

A1-3 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A1-4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix II

Appendix II

Noise Modelling

A2-1 Appendix II SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A2-2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix II

Noise Modelling

This Appendix describes the methods used to model the dition) was used. The turbine was modelled in both potential noise impact of the proposed compressor station its unenclosed and enclosed (by an acoustic enclosure) on Yallamurray Road, northeast of Padthaway. Two alter- configurations native compressor station locations adjacent to the road • Turbine Inlet were modelled: northwest of the road or southeast of the • Manufacturer’s data for a Centaur 40 turbine inlet road. with the turbine operating at full load (believed to be the condition in which the inlet emits the most noise) Receivers was used. The inlet was modelled as both unsilenced Noise levels due to the proposed installation were pre- and as fitted with a 16.A.1 inlet silencer. dicted at seven locations identified as potential residences • Turbine Exhaust from information provided and from SA Department of • Manufacturer’s data for a Centaur 40 turbine exhaust Lands 1:50,000 scale topographic maps. These locations with the turbine operating at full load (believed to be were: the condition in which the exhaust emits the most • Location 1 “Tambo Hills”,located approximately 3.5km noise) in was used. The exhaust was modelled as both SW of the proposed compressor station site unsilenced and as fitted with a 17.A.1 Centaur • Location 2 “Woodland Park”, also located approxim- exhaust silencer. ately 3.5km SW of the site • Location 3 “Swede Flat”, located approximately 4.5km In order to model worst-case noise emissions, noise data NNE of the site for the turbine package operating at part load was used. • Location 4 “Yalandro”, also located approximately However, information for the inlet and exhaust at part 4.5km NNE of the site load was not available. It is therefore considered that the • Location 5 “Lindholm Park”, located approximately noise predictions are likely to result in higher levels than 8.5km SE of the site will occur in practice. • Location 6, located approximately 4km NW of the site, and Air Coolers • Location 7, located approximately 5.5km SE of the site Octave band data for the air coolers was derived from information provided and from our own records. Two air Further modelling of two additional residences (Locations cooler sources were modelled. 8 and 9) was also carried out. These residences (Call-Anda Park and Narabyn) are located 9km E and 8km W of the Packaged Compressor site, respectively. Octave band data for the packaged compressor was derived from information provided and from our own It is believed that the noise impact of the installation will records. be greatest at these locations and that if limits are met at these points they will hence be met at all residential loca- Stand-by Generator tions. Octave band data for the stand-by generator was derived from information provided and from our own records. Sources Those items of plant which could significantly contribute Weather Conditions to emitted noise levels were identified and octave band The effect of differing weather conditions on noise prop- noise levels located or derived for each. The following agation from the installation was examined. A tempera- plant items were modelled: ture of 5°C and 50% humidity were assumed and the following effects considered: Gas Turbine • no wind • Turbine Package • a 1°C/100m temperature inversion, and • Manufacturer’s data for a Centaur 40 SoLoNox tur- • a 3ms-1 wind blowing from the source to the receiver. bine operating at part load (its loudest operating con-

A2-3 Appendix II SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

These can be considered “worst case” scenarios for noise propagation. The actual frequency of such conditions occurring is not known.

Modelling Package This source, receiver and meteorological data were combined with topographical data digitised from SA Department of Lands 1:50,000 scale topographic maps and terrain data using ENM, an environmental noise modelling package.

Results of the modelling are detailed in Section 8.2.

A2-4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Appendix III

Ecology

A3-1 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A3-2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Ecology

This appendix contains results of the field survey under- • Conservation status of plant community: Depleted (D), taken as part of the ecological assessment. It describes Rare (R),Vulnerable (V) or Endangered (E),based on potential impacts at the sites of ecological sensitivity • Victoria – DNRE (unpublished data) and Traill and surveyed,and contains recommendations made by Ecology Porter (2001) Australia for impact mitigation, based on ecological • South Australia – Kahrimanis et al. (2001), Croft et al. grounds. A summary table of sites at which impacts to (1999) and Robertson (1998). In South Australia we listed threatened species and ecological communities may define Depleted as those communities with less than occur is also provided. 10% protection, which are not otherwise rare or threatened Site Inventory The data collected at each site includes the following: • Fauna Habitat assessment • Habitat assessment focused on extent of native vegeta- • Site number and location (with GPS Easting and tion cover, floristics, structure, age, level of disturbance Northing) to indigenous vegetation, and presence or absence of features important in determining vertebrate habitat • Plant community: quality, including presence of hollow-bearing trees, • Victoria – Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) or prolific nectar-producing or bark-shedding trees, a Floristic Vegetation Community (FVC) shrub understorey and indigenous ground layer, an • South Australia – Floristic Community; following the abundance of fallen timber (logs) and litter, and typology developed by Kahrimanis et al. (2001), Croft connectivity to surrounding areas of indigenous fauna et al. (1999) and Robertson (1998) habitat. Particular attention was given to potential habitat attributes of threatened fauna. Using the pres- • Plant community quality, according to the following ence or absence of these features, remnant vegetation scale: was rated as supporting Low, Moderate, Good or • Quality 1 Vegetation structurally and floristically Excellent quality habitat for vertebrate fauna. intact or almost so; weed invasions minimal or weeds absent;disturbance minimal or absent • Rare or threatened fauna with a likelihood of occur- • Quality 2 Vegetation structurally and floristically rence substantially intact; low levels of weed invasion; low • The likelihood of rare or threatened vertebrates occur- levels of disturbance ring in vegetation remnants was determined by: 1) the • Quality 3 Vegetation partially intact structurally presence or absence of recent records of threatened and/or floristically; moderate levels of weed invasion: species in close proximity to the remnants; and 2) the woody vegetation intact and herbaceous vegetation presence or absence of the preferred habitat compo- greater than 50% cover;moderate levels of disturbance nents of threatened species. • Quality 4 Vegetation comprised of less than 50% cover of indigenous species and/or with much To guide design and construction techniques the following reduced species richness; in the case of woody vegeta- assessment information was collected: tion the upper strata may provide moderate to high • potential impacts,including direct and offsite,and cover but field layer substantially exotic or only scat- • suggested mitigation strategies to either avoid or reduce tered overstorey remnants but moderately dense impacts. understorey and/or field layer; high levels of disturbance For streams the following additional information was • Quality 5 Vegetation grossly modified with scattered collected: to rare dominants of upper strata only persisting; very • stream type:permanent / ephemeral high cover of weeds;current or former levels of distur- • width of stream bed bance high or very high • flow type,e.g. cascade,run,pool or backwater • substrate composition

A3-3 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

• instream habitat Regional Significance • bank vegetation • Vertebrate species • cover for fish • South Australia – vertebrate species listed as • water depth Regionally significant by Croft et al. (1999), • stability issues,and Kahrimanis et al. (2001) or Robertson (1998) for the • potential for rare or threatened fish species. relevant bioregion. • Victoria – There are no formal lists for Regionally Conservation Status threatened fauna in Victoria. On the basis of the Conservation significance was determined by: authors knowledge, species assessed as Regionally significant and discussed later in this report,are consid- National significance ered threatened Regionally,but secure on a state-wide • Plant species basis. • Species listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 References (EPBC Act 1999). • Vertebrate species Cogger, H.G., Cameron, E.E., Sadlier, R.A. and Eggler, P. • Species listed under the Commonwealth Environment (1993). The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles. Australian Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Nature Conservation Agency. Endangered Species Program: Project Number 124. Australian Nature (EPBC Act 1999), or under the National Action Plans Conservation Agency, Canberra. for Marsupials and Monotremes (Maxwell et al. 1996), Rodents (Lee 1995), Bats (Duncan et al. 1999), Birds Croft, T., Carruthers, S., Possingham, H. and Inns, B. (Garnett and Crowley 2000), Reptiles (Cogger et al. (1999). Biodiversity Plan for the South East of South Australia. 1993), Frogs (Tyler 1997) and Fish (Wager and Jackson Department of Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal 1993). Affairs,Adelaide.

State significance Duncan, A., Baker, G.B. and Montgomery, N. (1999). The Action Plan for Australian Bats. Environment Australia and • Plant species Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme, Canberra,ACT. • Victoria – species listed under Rare or Threatened species lists of the Department of Natural Resources Garnett, S.T.and Crowley,G.M. (2000). The Action Plan for and Environment (DNRE 2000). Australian Birds 2000. Environment Australia, Canberra. • South Australia – species listed as threatened on a State basis by Neagle (1995),(Croft et al. 1999),(Kahrimanis Kahrimanis, M.J., Carruthers, S., Oppermann,A. and Inns, et al. 2001) or (Robertson 1998). R. (2001). Biodiversity Plan for the South Australian Murray • Plant communities Darling Basin. Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia,Adelaide. • Victoria – plant communities listed as threatened on a state basis by Traill and Porter (2001), or by the JANIS Lee, A.K. (1995). The Action Plan for Australian Rodents. Criteria (used to assess the conservation status of Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra,ACT. Vegetation Types/Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC)). Maxwell, S., Burbidge, A.A. and Morris, K. (Eds.) (1996) • South Australia – plant communities listed as threat- The 1996 Action Plan for Australian Marsupials and ened on a State basis by Neagle (1995), (Croft et al. Monotremes. Wildlife Australia, Canberra. 1999),(Kahrimanis et al.2001) or (Robertson 1998). • Threatened vertebrates Neagle, N. (1995) An Update of the Conservation Status of the Major Plant Associations of South Australia. Native • Victoria – vertebrate species listed as threatened taxa Vegetation Management Branch, Department of under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Environment and Land Management. 1988, or under the List of Threatened Vertebrate Species in Victoria of the Department of Natural Robertson, M.A. (1998). A Biological Survey of Grasslands Resources and Environment (2000). and Grassy Woodlands of the Lofty Block Bioregion of South • South Australia – vertebrate species listed under the Australia. Biological Survey and Research Heritage and South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act Biodiversity Division, Department for Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs, South Australia,Adelaide. (1972) as Rare,Vulnerable or Endangered.

A3-4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Traill, B. and Porter, C. (2001). Nature Conservation Review Victoria 2001. Victorian National Parks Association, East Melbourne.

Tyler, M. J. (1997). The Action Plan for Australian Frogs. Environment Australia, Canberra ACT.

Wager, R. and Jackson, P. (1993). The Action Plan for Australian Freshwater Fishes. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra,ACT.

A3-5 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 1 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Peterborough Rd Easting 06 67922 Northing 57 29001

Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus ovata Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Swamp Woodland Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Swamp Gum Swamp Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Good with a sedgey understorey (roadside reserve) Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG: low likelihood) (potential habitat) State Swamp Antechinus Regional - Comments Flora Roadside remnant; contiguous vegetation. Fauna Potential wildlife corridor, reasonable structural integrity of vegetation; alignment crosses good quality vegetation on south side of road; no eucalypt canopy on north side where alignment bisects, just tussocks of Lomandra and Gahnia and Allocasuarina shrubs. Records given in Atlas of Victorian Birds and Higgins (1999) indicate a low likelihood of occurrence of Swift Parrot. Rufous Bristlebird known from area.

Potential Impacts • Loss of dense canopy and understorey south side Potential Mitigation • Move 10 m north, minimise construction width and tree loss Strategies • Rehabilitation

Further Study/Survey • Refine alignment

A3-6 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 2 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Curdie Vale, Port Campbell Rd Easting 06 67559 Northing 57 29479 Ecological Vegetation Swamp Woodland Vegetation Quality 2 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Swamp Gum Swamp Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Good with a heathy understorey (roadside reserve) Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG: low likelihood), Rufous Bristlebird (FFG) (potential habitat) State Swamp Antechinus, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren Regional Eastern Pygmy-possum Comments Flora Allocasuarina pallida – dominated. Contiguous roadside remnant on north side, degraded sections on south side. Fauna Potential wildlife corridor, reasonable structural integrity of vegetation; alignment crosses degraded open section on west side of road; goes through good quality habitat (a clump of Allocasuarina) on east side of road. Records given in Atlas of Victorian Birds and Higgins (1999) indicate a low likelihood of occurrence of Swift Parrot.

Potential Impacts • Loss of dense heathy vegetation Potential Mitigation • Move on north side to E: 06 67559 N: 57 29479, gap in vegetation Strategies: • Minimise construction width and vegetation loss • Rehabilitation

Further Study/Survey • Refine alignment

A3-7 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 3 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Spring Creek Easting 06 66514 Northing 57 30421 Ecological Vegetation Riparian Scrub/Woodland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status R Fauna Habitat Type 1) Degraded Riparian (Swamp Fauna Habitat Quality Low Gum) Woodland or Scrub. Instream: Low 2) Pasture. 3) Instream. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG: low likelihood), Flame Robin (1 pair (potential habitat) detected) State - Regional - Comments Flora Very degraded gap in vegetation; scattered old growth Swamp Gums. Fauna Alignment crosses most degraded section of creek where no eucalypt canopy exists, but should aim to avoid old, hollow-bearing Swamp Gums upslope. Nationally significant Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA) is known from Spring Creek, but this section is unlikely to support resident fish. Creek supports a high weed cover. Creek linked to a larger patch of forest. Records given in Atlas of Victorian Birds and Higgins (1999) indicate a low likelihood of occurrence of Swift Parrot.

Potential Impacts • Loss of old growth and stag E.ovata • In-stream sedimentation

Potential Mitigation • Stream crossing protocols Strategies • Minimise loss of old growth eucalypts

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-8 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 4 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Timboon Curdie, Vala Rd Easting 06 62559 Northing 5734871 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Highly modified vegetation – Fauna Habitat Quality Low plantation eucalypts over grassy/sedgey (Lomandra) and bracken ground layer – Rd reserve Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Very degraded roadside on both sides. Fauna Alignment crosses through clearing on both sides of road.

Potential Impacts • No significant issues

Potential Mitigation • Some indigenous species, so minimise construction disturbance Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

Site 5 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Curdies River Easting 06 61662 Northing 57 35818 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Broad, open (artificial) wetland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate on Curdies River Significant Fauna National Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG; low likelihood) (potential habitat) State Great Egret (FFG, detected), Royal Spoonbill, Pied Cormorant Regional - Comments Flora Exotic pasture to stream, scattered Typha, Phragmites, Juncus. Fauna Extensive shallow water zone, but paucity of dense vegetation to provide shelter limits potential for waterbirds and frogs. Grazing and pugging of margins; water quality probably low because rarely flushed (ie. river mouth closed); salinity fluctuations; Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA) known from the Curdies River, however, lack of aquatic vegetation probably precludes the presence of resident fish at this site. Potential Impacts • Disruption to in-stream habitat

Potential Mitigation • Avoid native vegetation at break of slope on east side of river Strategies • Directional drill Further Study/Survey • -

A3-9 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 6 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Whisky Creek Road Easting 06 60150 Northing 57 36603

Ecological Vegetation Swamp Woodland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Swamp Gum Swamp Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Good (north side with a heathy understorey of road) Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Rufous Bristlebird (FFG) (potential habitat) State Chestnut-rumped Heathwren Regional Eastern Pygmy Possum Comments Flora 15 m gap in vegetation as assess to valve station: contiguous roadside remnant on north side. Fauna Alignment crossed through degraded (exotic) road reserve on south side of road; on north side, proposed to cross though High Pressure Gas Pipeline Facility where road reserve is cleared for track entrance to facility; good quality heathy woodland on each side of entrance.

Potential Impacts • Only impact on roadside vegetation if widened to bypass valve station

Potential Mitigation • Minimise vegetation loss Strategies • If native vegetation loss occurs, replace at identified vegetation site Further Study/Survey • -

Site 7 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria Location Princes Hwy Easting 06 41723 Northing 57 50253 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Modified Wetland (sinkhole Fauna Habitat Quality Low depression) surrounded by pasture Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State Great Egret (FFG, feeding habitat) Regional - Comments Flora Highly modified; exotic vegetation. Fauna Modified wetland on sinkhole depression surrounded by pasture; good feeding habitat for locally significant waterbirds (Black Swans, Yellow- billed Spoonbill, Pacific Heron and White-faced Heron detected). Potential Impacts • Potential disturbance to waterbirds feeding in depression/sinkhole

Potential Mitigation • Avoid sinkhole; minimise disturbance if large number of waterbirds present; Strategies undertake construction when dry Further Study/Survey • -

A3-10 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 8 Land System Coastal Southwestern Victoria, Location Hopkins River Volcanic Plains Easting 06 39938 Northing 57 52017 Ecological Vegetation Revegetation Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Revegetation over weedy banks; Fauna Habitat Quality Low in-stream Significant Fauna National Australian Grayling (EPBCA, FFG), Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, (potential habitat) FFG), Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, FFG) State Nankeen Night Heron, River Blackfish, Mountain Galaxias Regional Water Rat Comments Flora Revegetated banks (both sides) understorey wholly exotic edge of basalt. Fauna Three Nationally significant fish species are known from the Hopkins River. Generally low quality habitat on river banks as regrowth eucalypts too young to provide significant habitat; instream values include wide expanse of deepish water and scattered aquatic vegetation.

Potential Impacts • In-stream issues of habitat and sedimentation • Loss of revegetation Potential Mitigation • Direction drill Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Fish survey to firm status of significant fish

A3-11 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 9 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Merri River on Grassmere Road Easting 06 33351 Northing 57 59669 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Exotic Riparian vegetation Fauna Habitat Quality Low (Willows) over exotic ground layer Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State Nankeen Night Heron, Great Egret (FFG) Regional Water Rat Comments Flora Exotic with Willows, grazed in-stream – Triglochin procerum, Eleocharis acuta, Bolboschoenus medianus., Typha sp., Phragmites australis. Fauna Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA) known from Drysdale Creek, tributary c. 4 km upstream of where alignment crosses Merri River; this section of River unlikely to provide habitat for resident fish; no native riparian vegetation, cattle grazing of banks and instream vegetation limits habitat value; Water Ribbons and Typha provide limited cover for fish.

Potential Impacts • Highly modified banks but instream issues Potential Mitigation • Trench protocols, construction during dry periods i.e. low flow conditions and Strategies surface wetness • Rehabilitation

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-12 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 10 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Russells Road Easting 06 28414 Northing 5763470 Ecological Vegetation Grassy Woodland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Manna Gum Grassy Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good Significant Fauna National Flame Robin (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Old growth Eucalyptus viminalis with largely grazed and exotic understorey. Fauna Large remnant with an abundance of large, hollow-bearing eucalypts over degraded understorey; some fallen timber is present; some dieback is evident Potential Impacts • Removal of old growth and/or stag Eucalyptus viminalis

Potential Mitigation • Align to north of remnant Strategies • Vegetation to south is plantings (non-local) and could be utilised if necessary • Avoid old growth Eucalyptus ovata on corner of plantings Further Study/Survey • -

A3-13 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 11 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Woolsthorpe – Koroit Road Easting 06 23068 Northing 57 67895 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassland (FFG) Vegetation Quality 2-3 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Themeda Plains Grassland – Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Good-Excellent Road Reserves. 2) Stoney Rises 2) Low-Moderate and grazed pasture in adjoining paddock to east. Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Eastern road reserve, population Dianella ameona many plants (EPBC Act), quite species rich, extensive on western reserve. Undescribed rare Leek-Orchid and Prasophyllum murfitti known from road reserve near corridor Fauna Extensive linear strips of Themeda Plains Grassland in road reserves; quality varies due to mowing/ploughing of fire breaks, although if allowed to regenerate would return to quality as good as none- mowed/ploughed sections of reserves; in general, good-excellent quality habitat Potential Impacts • Loss of Plains Grassland Potential Mitigation • Extend road crossing bore from adjacent private property Strategies Further Study/Survey • Survey for Striped Legless Lizard if directional drilling/boring not possible • Additional survey for seasonals and extent of Dianella ameona

A3-14 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 12 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Penshurst – Warrnambool Road Easting 06 14730 Northing 57 73400 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassland Vegetation Quality 2-3 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Themeda Plains Grassland – Road Fauna Habitat Quality Good-Excellent Reserve (West side of Road, only) Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Large contiguous patch on western side; adjoins to north drained swamp – Sandy Creek Width 20m. Fauna West side of Penshurst-Warrnambool Road supports a 25 m wide linear strips of Themeda Plains Grassland in road reserve; degraded creekline to north supports a dense stand of Phragmites australis; East side of road is degraded where alignment crosses, but there is Themeda Plains Grassland c. 10 m to south of alignment crossing. Potential Impacts • Loss of Plains Grassland

Potential Mitigation • Directional drill/bore Strategies • East side degraded but Plains Grassland 10 m to south • Realignment limited because extensive Plains Grassland to south and swamp to north • Keep to south of Wild Dog Swamp

Further Study/Survey • Survey for Striped Legless Lizard if directional drilling/boring not possible. Seasonal survey

A3-15 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 13 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Moyne River Willatook- Warrong Rd Easting 06 10083 Northing 57 75548 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Highly modified/exotic Riparian Fauna Habitat Quality Low Vegetation Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State Great Egret (FFG, feeding habitat) Regional - Comments Flora Exotic vegetation, grazed and cleared, some species in-stream bed: Typha, Phragmites, Schoenoplectss vaidus, Eleocharis acuta, Leptospermum lanigerum, Bolboschoenus medianus. Fauna Highly degraded river with no eucalypt canopy or shrub understorey and grazed banks to edge of stream; aquatic vegetation in pools or slow-flowing water includes Typha, Phragmites and Juncus and is reasonable instream habitat for locally common waterbirds (Purple Swamp Hen and Pacific Black Ducks recorded). Potential Impacts • Loss of in-stream habitat sedimentation

Potential Mitigation • Trench during dry conditions Strategies • Avoid scattered Leptospermum lanigerum if possible • Rehabilitation

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-16 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 14 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Glenlennson – Kangerton Road, Includes Back Creek Easting 06 03407 Northing 57 83060 Ecological Vegetation 1) Stoney Rise. 2) Poa labillardierei Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 4 Classes Grassland. Conservation Status 1) D 2) E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Modified Stoney Rises. 2) Poa Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Moderate Grassland. 2) Moderate Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG; low likelihood of occurrence) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Poa labillardierei remnants in Back Creek – broad drainage line, Stoney Rises very degraded. Fauna Highly modified habitat incorporating two habitat types; all now grazed by cattle and creekline dry and channelised by cattle walking in creek bed (broad drainage line channelised by cattle walking in deepest part). Potential Impacts • Loss of Poa labillardierei grassland Potential Mitigation • Choose narrowest section of remnant vegetation Strategies • Minimise construction with • Salvage Poa labillardierei as sods Further Study/Survey • -

A3-17 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 15

Land System Volcanic Plains Location Waterloo Lane Road Reserve Easting 05 95445 Northing 57 84874 Ecological Vegetation 1) Poa labillardierei Grassland. Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 4 Classes 2) Plains Grassland Conservation Status 1) E 2) E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Themeda Plains Grassland. Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Good 2) Poa Grassland. 3) Exotic 2) Moderate Grassland. 4) Scattered Black Wattles, Blackwood, eucalypts and other shrubs. Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG; low likelihood of occurrence) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Extensive areas of Poa labillardierei. in western section, scattered Themeda in eastern section. Fauna Mosaic of three habitat types with scattered trees and shrubs along a road reserve (no bitumen, just a grassy lane); patchy in quality and distribution of habitat types.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Plains Grassland

Potential Mitigation • Realign in paddocks to north or south Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-18 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 16 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Breakfast Creek Easting 05 88093 Northing 57 91567 Ecological Vegetation Grassy Wetland Vegetation Quality 3-4 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Grassy Wetland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Significant Fauna National Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, FFG), Lewin’s Rail (FFG); Southern (or (potential habitat) Warty) Bell Frog (Litoria raniformis) (EPBCA , FFG), including potential breeding habitat State Great Egret (FFG), Buff-banded Rail Regional - Comments Flora Large populations of Carex tasmanica in area, Carex app. Typha, Phragmites, Poa labillardierei, Eleocharis acuta, Carex gaudichaudiana, Juncus spp. and grazed. Fauna Phragmites australis dominated creekline with Poa labillardierei, exotic grasses and Curly Sedge (EPBCA) upslope; badly grazed and pugged by cattle, however, good frog and wetland bird habitat, especially when inundated. Permanent creekline with pools supporting dense aquatic vegetation is potential breeding habitat for the Nationally Vulnerable Southern Bell Frog.

Potential Impacts • Loss of remnant vegetation • Loss of Carex tasmanica (EPBC)

Potential Mitigation • Determine best crossing point Strategies • Dry (est) conditions • Salvage as sods – wetland material Further Study/Survey • Survey to determine status of Southern Bell Frog and Dwarf Galaxias in/along Breakfast Creek • Survey to determine distribution of Carex tasmanica; widespread in general area, also Gahnia trifid sedgeland nearby

A3-19 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 17 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Old Crusher Road Easting 05 78270 Northing 58 00940 Ecological Vegetation Harman Valley Volcanics Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Complex Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Stoney Rises – Harman Valley Fauna Habitat Quality Good-Excellent Volcanics Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Undocumented vegetation, dominated by dwarf Hymenanthera dentatum, Pteridium esculentum ± treeless, very scattered Acacia mearnsii, volcanic tumuli. Fauna Good-excellent reptile habitat – numerous basalt floaters across ground surface resulting from lava flow from Mt Napier; habitat includes numerous sinkhole depressions, bracken, Hymenanthera shrubs and grasses; probably also good shelter habitat for frogs.

Potential Impacts • Loss of substantial area of very rare vegetation type on Vic youngest lava flows (also Mt Eccles)

Potential Mitigation • Further work to decide best route Strategies • Could follow Old Crusher Road • Specific construction techniques

Further Study/Survey • Reptile survey to determine a least sensitive alignment through rocks • Flora and fauna (herps) and geomorph allied to choice of best route

A3-20 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 18 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Spring Lane Easting 05 74640 Northing 58 02479 Ecological Vegetation Juncus acutus Sedgeland (exotic) Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Juncus acutus rushland (exotic) Fauna Habitat Quality Low Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Saline discharge site. Fauna Saline discharge point along drainage line supporting Juncus acutus.

Potential Impacts • Seed spread Potential Mitigation • Regionally controlled weed species Strategies • Vehicle hygiene protocols • Avoid if possible Further Study/Survey • -

Site 19 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Arrandoovong Creek off Whytes Road Easting 05 72300 Northing 50 06350 Ecological Vegetation Lept. lanigerum Riparian Scrub Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Leptospermum lanigerum Riparian Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Scrub Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Site not visited but rare remnants, patchy distribution, record of Carex tasmanica from FIS. Fauna Viewed from Whytes Lane; drained and grazed stand of L. lanigerum Scrub. Potential Impacts • Loss of vegetation

Potential Mitigation • Avoid; pipeline to cross drained and grazed section to the south Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-21 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 20 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Carreys Range Road – disused rail reserve Easting 05 67517 Northing 58 11219 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Themeda Plains Grassland with Fauna Habitat Quality Good scattered Drooping She-oak and Blackwood – disused rail reserve Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG) (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Allocasuarina verticillata, old growth Acacia melanoxylon, triangular area at junction of Carreys Range Road and old railway – fenced. Fauna Disused and fenced railreserve with Themeda, Poa, and scattered wattles and Drooping She-oak. Potential Impacts • Loss of Plains Grassland

Potential Mitigation • Avoid; pipeline aligned to west in paddock Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-22 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 21 Land System Volcanic Plains Location Disused rail reserve west of Condah – Coleraine Road Easting 05 62823 Northing 58 14033 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Themeda Plains Grassland. Fauna Habitat Quality Good 2) Scattered Banksia marginata, Drooping She-oak, Swamp Gums and Black Wattles. Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG), Flame Robin (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Remnant includes old growth Allocasuarina verticillata and Banksia marginata, scattered Plains Grassland remnants along rail reserve. Also Dianella ameona (EPBC). Fauna Scattered trees and shrubs, including remnant oldgrowth Banksia marginata and Drooping She-oak, and odd Swamp Gum and planted Black Wattles over Themeda Grassland.

Potential Impacts • Substantial loss of Plains Grassland remnants of varying quality • Plantings of Acacia mearnsii

Potential Mitigation • Avoid; pipeline aligned in paddock to south Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Only if cannot be avoided

A3-23 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 22 Land System Dundas Tablelands Location McCrae Creek, Grassdale – Merino Road Easting 05 51645 Northing 58 21654 Ecological Vegetation 1) Tableland Grassland. Vegetation Quality 1) 3 2) 4 Classes 2) Riparian Scrub Conservation Status 1) E 2) E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Dundas Tableland Poa Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Moderate labillardierei grassland. 2) Moderate 2) Degraded Riparian Scrub. Significant Fauna National Striped Legless Lizard (EPBCA, FFG), Flame Robin (potential habitat) State Fat-tailed Dunnart Regional - Comments Flora Tableland Grassland: extensive area of Poa labillardierei grassland on southern side creek, Riparian Scrub: very degraded, scattered remnants mostly Acacia verticillata and Acacia mearnsii and Typha sp. Fauna Poa labillardierei grassland grazed. Degraded Riparian Scrub includes Black Wattles, Blackwoods, and Prickly Moses (A. verticillata). Instream values include dense beds of Typha and Juncus sp. Probably permanently wet due to seepage, although flow ephemeral. Probably good crake/rail habitat when flooded, but likelihood of significant species is low.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Tableland Grassland • Probably minor stream issues

Potential Mitigation • Avoid Grassland by aligning route to the east side of the road and cross Strategies downstream of road • Rehabilitation of creek environs • Investigate HDD due to unstable soils around creek margins

Further Study/Survey • Documentation required if cannot be avoided

A3-24 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 23 Land System Dundas Tablelands Location Merino Creek, Casterton – Portland Easting 05 47815 Northing 58 24238 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Highly modified/degraded Fauna Habitat Quality Low Creekline Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Cleared and grazed, very modified. Fauna Heavily grazed and weed invaded; no original vegetation Potential Impacts • Slope stability • Minor stream issues Potential Mitigation • Construction and rehabilitation protocols Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

Site 24 Land System Dundas Tablelands Location Disused rail reserve off McConachys Rd and Sugarloaf Rd. Easting 05 41351 Northing 58 32839 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Exotic grassland – disused rail Fauna Habitat Quality Low reserve Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Exotic vegetation, small Eleocharis acuta swamp on junction with Sugarloaf Road. Fauna Old growth scattered Red Gums of Wannon River Floodplain occur in surrounding area, but few Red Gums occur in disused rail reserve; surrounding area probably supports Nationally significant Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA). Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gums

Potential Mitigation • Avoid any indigenous trees (mostly Red Gums) Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-25 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 25 Land System Dundas Tablelands Location Glenelg River, Sandford – Baghallah Road Easting 05 37710 Northing 58 36380 Ecological Vegetation Riverine Forest Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Riverine River Red Gum Forest Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate -Good Significant Fauna National Southern Myotis, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG), Bush (potential habitat) Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Diamond Firetail (FFG, Low likelihood), Variegated Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG), Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG), Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, FFG) State Tree Goanna, River Blackfish, Mountain Galaxias Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Koala, Water Rat Comments Flora Degraded old growth Riverine Forest, most Eucalyptus camaldulensis pre-European and also on floodplain. Fauna Multi-aged stand of River Red Gums, including some old growth trees. Variegated Pygmy Perch and Yarra Pygmy Perch occur in the Glenelg River System. However, shallow water and low instream diversity at this point, probably precludes presence of resident (and significant) fish. Cattle have degraded river, despite fencing. Surrounding area probably supports Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo. Southern Myotis has been recorded along the Glenelg River.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gums • Limited in-stream habitat but issues of sedimentation, etc • Bank stability

Potential Mitigation • Directional drill Strategies • Rehabilitation of banks

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-26 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 26 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Deep Creek, off Deep Creek Lane Easting 05 31682 Northing 58 42572 Ecological Vegetation Riverine Forest Vegetation Quality Probably 4 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Riverine River Red Gum Forest Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good Significant Fauna National Southern Myotis (movement and dispersal and temporary feeding (potential habitat) habitat when flowing), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Diamond Firetail (FFG, low likelihood), Variegated Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG), Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG). State Tree Goanna Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Koala Comments Flora Site inspected from a distance. Fauna Viewed from 120 m. Good corridor of multi-aged River Red Gums, including some oldgrowth trees/grazed understorey. Asymetrical creek valley with a terrace on one side and steep slope on the other. Surrounding area probably supports Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo. Probably ephemeral creekline, precluding the presence of breeding habitat for Pygmy Perches. However, because of its close location to the Glenelg River, into which it flows, there is a low-moderate likelihood that Variegated and Yarra Pygmy Perches occur near the crossing of the alignment (ie. when Deep Creek is flowing).

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gum • Instream effects

Potential Mitigation • Align to gap in canopy on both sides of creek (see photo) Strategies • Avoid loss of Red Gum, particularly mature, old growth • Dredge protocols • Rehabilitation

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-27 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 27 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Barrs Road Easting 05 30604 Northing 58 45071 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassy Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good Woodland Significant Fauna National Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (potential habitat) (FFG) State - Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Pre-European stand of Red Gums. Fauna Pre-European stand of River Red Gums over pasture; includes an abundance of scattered, large, hollow-bearing Red Gums. Potential Impacts • Loss of old growth Red Gum Potential Mitigation • Avoid Red Gum Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

Site 28 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Fingerpost Road Easting 05 29215 Northing 58 49694 Ecological Vegetation Highly Modified Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Highly Modified Creekline Fauna Habitat Quality Low Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Severely modified with 6m cliffs, scattered Acacia melanoxylon and a few Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Phragmites in stream. Fauna Steep-sided creekline with a small ravine on one side. Scattered, non- mature River Red Gums, Blackwood shrubs, grassy/bracken dominated banks and Phragmites-lined creekline with an ephemeral flow.

Potential Impacts • Minor biological impacts • Bank erosion issues Potential Mitigation • Adequate rehabilitation, including battering embankment Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-28 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 29 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Casterton – Apsley Road, including Red Cap Creek Easting 05 26939 Northing 58 53259 Ecological Vegetation 1) Plains Grassy Woodland. Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 2-3 3) 3 Classes 2) Riparian Scrub. 3) Damp Heathy Woodland. Conservation Status 1) E 2) V 3) V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Moderate Woodland. 2) Swamp 2) Moderate Gum/Gahnia sieberana Scrub. 3) Moderate 3) Eucalyptus baxteri/Eucalyptus 4 )Low. arenacea Heathy Woodland. 4) Pinus radiata plantation. Significant Fauna National Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG; probably only feeding (potential habitat) habitat), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG) State Swamp Antechinus Regional Koala, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Dense Red Gum canopy, Gahnia sieberana dominated, lower quality under power easement, dominated by Eucalyptus baxteri and Bracken. Swamp Greenhood (Pterostylis tenuissima (EPBCA)) occurs in the Woolly Tea-tree vegetation on the northern edge of the pipeline easement Fauna 1) Dense canopy of young River Red Gums (few hollows). 2) Swamp Scrub supports a scattering of Swamp Gum over a dense Gahnia ground/shrub layer. 3) Brown Stringybark Woodland supports few hollows and has a ground layer of bracken: the heath has been thrashed out. 4) Pine Forest adjoins area.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gum • Removal of Heathy Woodland • Loss of Riparian Scrub Potential Mitigation • Utilise existing powerline easement (c. 14m) Strategies • Rehabilitate Red Cap Creek and confine to existing easement • Avoid Qual 2 Riparian Scrub downstream of easement • Avoid sedimentation downstram - consider boring • Protect Woolly Tea-tree area with fencing • Possible revegetation site for OFFSETS Further Study/Survey • Required if appreciable clearing

A3-29 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 30 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Casterton – Apsley Road Easting 05 22205 Northing 58 57050 Ecological Vegetation Damp Heathy Woodland Vegetation Quality 2 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus baxteri/Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality Good arenacea Heathy Woodland Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Hooded Robin (FFG), Diamond Firetail (FFG), Flame Robin, Heath Mouse (EPBCA, FFG), Southern Brown Bandicoot (EPBCA) State Swamp Antechinus, Silky Mouse, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Tree Goanna Regional Southern Emu-wren, Western Pygmy-possum, Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo Comments Flora Reasonably intact, dominant species: Eucalyptus baxteri, Xanthorrhoea semiplanata, Leucopogon ericoides, Acacia mearnsii, extensive and contiguous, old growth Eucalypts, Eucalyptus aromophloia and Eucalyptus leucoxylon. Fauna Multi-aged stand of trees, including large, hollow-bearing trees; a diverse ground layer is present, including Leucopogon sp., Xanthorrhoea sp. and bracken. Yellow Gum and Scent–bark are also present. This is part of a very large remnant (Roseneath State Forest/Reserve).

Potential Impacts • Loss of substantial area of Heath Woodland • Further fragmentation and edge effects

Potential Mitigation • Utilise existing easement (c. 40 m) Strategies

Further Study/Survey • A detailed survey is required if any substantial clearing

A3-30 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 31 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Apsley – Casterton Road Easting 05 20513 Northing 58 60300 Ecological Vegetation Damp Sand Heathland Vegetation Quality 1 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) E. baxteri/Eucalyptus arenacea Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Excellent Heathy Woodland. 2) Excellent 2) Sand Heathland. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Hooded Robin (FFG), Diamond Firetail (FFG), Flame Robin, Heath Mouse (EPBCA, FFG), Southern Brown Bandicoot (EPBCA) State Swamp Antechinus, Silky Mouse, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Tree Goanna Regional Southern Emu-wren, Western Pygmy-possum, Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo Comments Flora Intact and extensive, Allocasuarina pallidus, Allocasuarina pusilla, Hakea rugosa., Xanthorrhoea sp. Leptospermum continentale, Hyolaena. fastigata. Fauna Mixture of Heathy Woodland and Open Heathland. A diverse ground layer is present, including Astroloma conostephoides, Allocasuarina pusilla, Hibbertia sp., Leucopogon sp., Xanthorrhoea sp. and Banksia marginata. Yellow Gum, Scent–bark and Manna Gum are also present. The wetter heath is very sedgey. This is part of a very large remnant (Roseneath State Forest/Reserve).

Potential Impacts • Loss of substantial area of Sand Heath • Further fragmentation and edge impacts

Potential Mitigation • Utilise existing power easement, and trench in track Strategies • Reduce clearance width within slashed area on southern side of road and along easement through Roseneath Reserve • Easement is slashed heath and substantially intact & c. 12 m wide or beside road

Further Study/Survey • A detailed survey is required for this site • Seasonal flora surveys required if easement used; may require orchid relocation • Flora and fauna required if additional clearing

A3-31 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 32 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Aspley – Casterton Road Easting 05 19305 Northing 58 61268 Ecological Vegetation Damp Heathy Woodland Vegetation Quality 1 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus baxteri/Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality Excellent arenacea Heathy Woodland Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Hooded Robin (FFG), Diamond Firetail (FFG), Flame Robin, Painted Honeyeater (FFG), Heath Mouse (EPBCA, FFG), Southern Brown Bandicoot (EPBCA) State Swamp Antechinus, Silky Mouse, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Tree Goanna Regional Southern Emu-wren, Western Pygmy-possum, Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo Comments Flora Extensive areas of E. baxteri dominance, at western end also E. ovata with Acacia. mearnsii, Xanthorrhoea sp. u./s dominance. Fauna Multi-aged stand of trees, including large, hollow-bearing trees; an abundance of fallen timber is present. Swamp Gum is also present in canopy. The understorey is verging on sedgey. Mistletoe potentially provides a food resource for the Painted Honeyeater. This is part of a very large remnant (Roseneath State Forest/Reserve).

Potential Impacts • Loss of Heathy Woodland • Fragmentation and edge impacts Potential Mitigation • Utilise existing easement which is quite modified and c. 10 m width or beside Strategies road Further Study/Survey • A detailed flora and fauna survey is required for this site if additional clearing required

A3-32 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 33 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Apsley – Casterland Road Easting 05 18754 Northing 58 62313 Ecological Vegetation Damp Heathy Woodland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus baxteri/Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality Good arenacea Heathy Woodland Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Hooded Robin (FFG), Diamond Firetail (FFG), Flame Robin, Painted Honeyeater (FFG), Heath Mouse (EPBCA, FFG), Southern Brown Bandicoot (EPBCA) State Swamp Antechinus, Silky Mouse, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Tree Goanna Regional Southern Emu-wren, Western Pygmy-possum, Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo Comments Flora Grazed, smaller patch. Fauna Multi-aged stand of trees, including large, hollow-bearing trees. The understorey is grazed and therefore more grassy than previous sites (30-32). This is part of a very large remnant (Roseneath State Forest/Reserve).

Potential Impacts • Loss of Heathy Woodland Potential Mitigation • Follow existing power easement between remnant and road Strategies • Keep to outer edge of remnant and minimise vegetation loss

Further Study/Survey • A detailed survey is required for this site

A3-33 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 34 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Dorodong Road Easting 05 18413 Northing 58 63894 Ecological Vegetation Highly Modified (Old pine Vegetation Quality 5 Classes plantation adjoining Heathy Woodland) Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type 1) Edge of Degraded E. Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low-moderate baxteri/Eucalyptus arenacea Heathy 2) Low Woodland. 2) Highly modified 3) Low Creekline. 3) Grassy/Bracken dominated clearing. Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Former pine plantation. Fauna Scattered Black Wattles with other shrubs along creekline. Degraded edge of Heathy Woodland remnant. Clearing as a result of clearing of Pine trees. Alignment impacts only on Pine plantation. Potential Impacts • No significant issue unless impact on Heathy Woodland Potential Mitigation • Align through old pine plantation to the north-east of Heathy Woodland Strategies remnant Further Study/Survey • -

A3-34 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 35 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Apsley – Casterton Easting 05 17731 Northing 58 67526 Ecological Vegetation Damp Heathy Woodland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) E. baxteri/Eucalyptus arenacea Fauna Habitat Quality Low-Moderate, Heathy Woodland regrowth except for good under powerline easement. quality Heathy 2) Scattered eucalypts in road Woodland to east. reserve. 3) E. baxteri/Eucalyptus arenacea Heathy Woodland outside of easement (to east). 4) Yellow Gum Grassy Woodland (pasture) to north. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG) and Bush Stone-curlew (FFG) in grassy (potential habitat) Yellow Gum Woodland State - Regional Koala, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Regrowth under existing power easement. Fauna Degraded regrowth, mostly Tea Tree in easement. Eucalypts in road reserve with Banksia marginata. Good quality Heathy Woodland outside of easement to east. Scattered Yellow Gums over grassy ground layer to north.

Potential Impacts • Significant impacts unlikely • Loss of regrowth • Mature E. aromophloia in road reserve Potential Mitigation • Construction techniques to min loss and max regeneration potential Strategies • Construct between old E. aromophloia in road reserve to west Further Study/Survey • -

A3-35 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 36 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Apsley – Casterton Road Easting 05 14914 Northing 58 70897 Ecological Vegetation 1) Swamp Woodland. Vegetation Quality 1) 2. 2) 3. Classes 2) Regrowth Heathy Woodland. Conservation Status 1) V. 2) D. Fauna Habitat Type 1) Swamp Gum – Brown Fauna Habitat Quality Good Stringybark Swamp Woodland along drainage line. 2) Eucalyptus baxteri/Eucalyptus arenacea Heathy Woodland on drier slopes. 3) Scattered Yellow Gums over pasture to south and in road reserve adjoining drainage line. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG) and Bush Stone-curlew (FFG) (in grassy (potential habitat) Yellow Gum Woodland), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG), Heath Mouse (EPBCA, FFG), Southern Brown Bandicoot (EPBCA) State Swamp Antechinus Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Small patch 70 x 10 m Eucalyptus ovata and Carex appressa, regrowth Heathy Woodland under power easement. Maroon Leek-orchid (Prasophyllum frenchii) (EPBCA, FFG-Nominated) and Metallic Sun Orchid (Thelymitra epipactoides) (EPBCA, FFG) occur within this area. Fauna Swamp Woodland over sedgey/rushy drainage line with Tea Tree and Bracken in understorey also. Ephemeral drainage line probably always damp. Diverse remnant comprising three fauna habitats with good linkage value to road reserve.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Swamp Woodland • Disturbance to indigenous regrowth

Potential Mitigation • Align route outside of mature trees in drainage line; and follow existing easement Strategies c. 30 m width • Construction techniques to minimise disturbance to regrowth • Location of orchid site to be identified on site and be protected with mesh barrier during construction Further Study/Survey • Seasonal flora survey if clearing outside easement

A3-36 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 37 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Salt Creek Apsley – Casterton Road Easting 05 11448 Northing 58 75442 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassy Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Yellow Gum Grassy Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Significant Fauna National Southern Myotis, Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (potential habitat) (FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Diamond Firetail (FFG, low likelihood) Variegated Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG), Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG), Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, FFG) State - Regional Koala, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Oldgrowth Eucalyptus camaldulensis and E. leucoxylon in pasture with Juncus dominated Drainage line, granite outcrops. Known populations of Swamp Greenhood (EPBCA) occur within Salt Creek on eastern side of Apsley-Casterton Road. Fauna Old growth Yellow Gums and River Red Gums over pasture. Good linkage value to high quality road reserve supporting Yellow Gums and Red Gums. Variegated and Yarra Pygmy Perches both recorded in Salt Creek – a tributary of the Glenelg River: recorded in Salt Creek c. 7 km downstream of alignment at bridge over Dergholm Road. Salt Creek is ephemeral at this point and comprises a broad, open and shallow drainage line. Likelihood of resident Pygmy Perch at this point is low.

Potential Impacts • Loss of eucalypts – mature and old growth Potential Mitigation • Avoid eucalypts wherever possible Strategies • Replanting and rehabilitation • Locate pipeline on western side of Apsley-Casterton Road as proposed

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-37 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 38 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Naracoorte – Apsley/Casterton Road Easting 05 09311 Northing 58 79528 Ecological Vegetation Lunette Woodland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type 1) Eucalyptus aromophloia Lunette Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Woodland with a bracken dominated understorey. 2) Red Gum/Yellow Gum Grassy Woodland in road reserve. 3) Pasture Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, FFG), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Red-tailed (potential habitat) Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG) State - Regional Koala Comments Flora Dominated by Eucalyptus aromophloia and Pterideum esculentum on sandy lunette, vegetation in depression appears exotic. Fauna Old growth and hollow-bearing E. aromophloia over bracken understorey. Clearing for easement to east ( = pasture). Yellow Gums and River Red Gums in road reserve. Swift Parrot and Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo potentially in road reserve only.

Potential Impacts • Loss of vegetation and old growth E. aromophloia Potential Mitigation • Align in cleared section of property/power easement between house and road Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Flora and fauna required if impacts on lunette

A3-38 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 39 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Caranta Lane Road Reserve Easting 05 04233 Northing 58 85202 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassy Woodland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Woodland – Road Reserve and Pasture Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG; (potential habitat) low likelihood), Brown Treecreeper State Brolga (FFG, NPW) - known nesting and flocking sites nearby Regional Koala, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Comments Flora Roadside remnant of mature and old growth Eucalyptus camaldulensis (on both sides). Fauna Mostly a continuous corridor of multi-aged River Red Gums, including some large, hollow-bearing trees. Degraded, exotic grassy ground layer. Reserve c. 5 m wide on north side and c. 8 m wide on south side.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gums Potential Mitigation • Choose gap in Red Gums and reduce construction width as necessary Strategies • Avoid disturbance to Brolga during breeding season Further Study/Survey • -

Site 40 Land System Wimmera Plains Location West of Naracoorte – Casterton/Apsley Road and south of Caranta Lane. Site not seen Easting 05 06000 Northing 58 8400 Ecological Vegetation Wetland Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Depression with a possibly lunette Fauna Habitat Quality - Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Access not available, depression with possible lunette. Fauna Access not available.

Potential Impacts • Disturbance to wetland Potential Mitigation • Realign to avoid Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Need site inspection if not avoided

A3-39 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 41 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Edenhope – Penola Road Easting 04 99725 Northing 58 89973 Ecological Vegetation Plains Grassy Woodland Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Woodland – Road Reserve Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (FFG), Brown Treecreeper, Red-tailed Black- (potential habitat) Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG; low likelihood) State - Regional Koala Comments Flora Road reserve with ± contiguous canopy of Red Gum, different position to mapped position. Fauna Multi-aged stand of River Red Gums, including some large, hollow- bearing trees. Degraded, exotic grassy ground layer of Phalaris. Reserve c. 5 m wide on north side and c. 8 m wide on south side.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gums Potential Mitigation • Align through gap in canopy Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

Site 42 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Wetland west of Naracoorte – Casterton Road and east of Penola– Edenhope Road. Site not seen. Easting 05 01700 Northing 58 88600 Ecological Vegetation Wetland Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Wetland Fauna Habitat Quality - Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Access not obtained. Fauna Access not obtained.

Potential Impacts • Loss of wetland Potential Mitigation • Avoid wetland Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Site inspection required if cannot be avoided

A3-40 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 43 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Mosquito Creek at Victorian – South Australian border Easting 04 97377 Northing 58 94887 Ecological Vegetation Riverine Forest Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status E Fauna Habitat Type Riverine River Red Gum Forest Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate overall (Red Gums moderate: instream Low-moderate) Significant Fauna National Southern Myotis (SA NPW), Bush Stone-curlew (FFG, SA NPW), (potential habitat) Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, FFG, SA NPW), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Brown Treecreeper, Diamond Firetail (FFG, SA NPW), Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, FFG, SA NPW), Yarra Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG, SA NPW) and Variegated Pygmy Perch (EPBCA, FFG, SA NPW) (low likelihood of resident fish at crossing point) State Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo (SA NPW) Regional Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo (Victoria), Koala, Water Rat Comments Flora Oldgrowth Red Gum on long grazed creek and floodplain, instream: Triglochin precerum, Schoenoplectus pungens, Chara sp., stream very degraded. Fauna Multi-aged stand of River Red Gums, including an abundance of large, hollow-bearing old growth trees. Degraded, exotic grassy ground layer. In-stream – Water Ribbons, Isolepis and filamentous algae and fallen timber, but shallow flow with a few deeper pools. Probably supports pools of water year round, but water quality in pools seemed to be very poor. Yarra Pygmy Perch and Variegated Pygmy Perch recorded in Mosquito Creek east southeast of Lang Koop c. 20 km downstream from border. Yarra Pygmy Perch also recorded c. 6 km downstream at Lang Koop. However, likelihood of resident fish at crossing point appears to be low due to low in-stream values. Potential Impacts • Loss of mature/old growth Red Gums • Significant in-stream impacts most unlikely

Potential Mitigation • Align through gaps in Red Gum Strategies • Apply stream crossing protocols • Consider boring/horizontal directional drilling to reduce impacts

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-41 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 44 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Naracoorte – Edenhope Road (150 m east of East Settlement Road) Easting 04 95145 Northing 58 97379 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Low Woodland – Road Reserve. 2) Pasture. Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW; low likelihood), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW) State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Road reserve, dense patch of Red Gums at junction with East Settlement Road. Fauna Canopy of Red Gums continuous along road reserve, but large, hollow-bearing trees not abundant at alignment crossing. Grazed, exotic understorey under a few large Red Gums in paddocks adjoining road reserve.

Potential Impacts • Removal of Red Gums Potential Mitigation • Align to gaps in Red Gums Strategies • Reduce construction width Further Study/Survey • -

A3-42 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 45 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Nolans Road Easting 04 87114 Northing 59 08832 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Low Woodland – Road Reserve. 2) Pasture. Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW; low likelihood), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW) State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Road reserve, old growth Red Gum. Fauna Canopy of Red Gums is discontinuous along road reserve. There are a few large, hollow-bearing trees in road reserve. There are also scattered Red Gums in paddocks over pasture. Alignment goes through break in canopy of Red Gums in road reserve. Potential Impacts • Removal of Red Gums Potential Mitigation • Align to gaps and reduce construction width Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-43 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 46 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Naracoorte – Apsley Road (west of Hynam Road) Easting 04 85969 Northing 59 11822 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Low-Moderate Woodland – Road Reserve and adjoining paddocks. 2) Pasture. Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW; low likelihood), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Brown Treecreeper State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW), Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo (SA NPW) Regional Common Dunnart, Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Extensive stand of old growth Eucalyptus camaldulensis in paddocks and road reserve, population pre-European and typical of this landscape. Fauna A large remnant supporting a multi-aged stand of River Red Gums with a moderate abundance of large, hollow-bearing trees. The canopy of Red Gums is continuous along the road reserve, and there is a good litter layer in the reserve. The understorey in the road reserve is exotic, and is grazed in the paddocks.

Potential Impacts • Removal of Red Gums Potential Mitigation • Avoid Red Gums in paddocks with careful route alignment; stay if possible Strategies beyond drip line • Position in gaps in road reserve (in property gates) and reduce construction width

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-44 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 47 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Lane Easting 04 83250 Northing 59 15200 Ecological Vegetation 1) Highly modified. 2) Eucalyptus Vegetation Quality 1) 5 2) 4–5 Classes camaldulensis Woodland. 3) 2– 3 3) Eucalyptus arenacea Woodland

Conservation Status 1) - 2) V 3) D Fauna Habitat Type 1) Modified Bracken-dominated Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low Ridge. 2) Eucalyptus baxteri/E. 2) Moderate arenacea Heathy Woodland. 3) - 3) River Red Gum Grassy Woodland – Road Reserve and adjoining paddocks. Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW), Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Brown Treecreeper State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW), Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo (SA NPW), Painted Buttonquail (SA NPW; in bracken of Heathy Woodland) Regional Common Dunnart, Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Bracken dominated lunette, Red Gums in paddocks, small remnant on sandy lunette. Fauna Brown Stringybark Heathy Woodland supports a bracken dominated understorey (Painted Buttonquail habitat): multi-aged stand with some larger trees, although hollow-bearing trees are not abundant. Scattered, large, hollow-bearing River Red Gums with some Yellow Gums over pasture comprise part of Beatwood Swamp. In all, good habitat for Bush Stone-curlew, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Swift Parrot, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Little Lorikeet, Painted Buttonquail and Crested Shriketit.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Red Gums/Yellow Gums • Route avoids E. arenacea. Woodland and passes through bracken

Potential Mitigation • Avoid Red Gums and Yellow Gums Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-45 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 48 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Schinkles Lane Easting 04 80293 Northing 59 16702 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good Woodland with Yellow Gum – Road Reserve and adjoining paddocks Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW), Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Brown Treecreeper State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW), Painted Buttonquail (SA NPW; in litter) Regional Common Dunnart, Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Road reserve with dense mature and old growth Red Gums and Yellow Gums, A, sand pH6 (40 cm), B, clay pH3. Fauna Contiguous canopy of multi-aged River Red Gums and Yellow Gums with largish trees, but few hollow-bearing trees. Good nectar source. Exotic grassy ground layer with a good cover of litter. In all, good habitat for Bush Stone-curlew, Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Swift Parrot, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Little Lorikeet, Painted Buttonquail and Crested Shriketit.

Potential Impacts • Loss of mature old growth Red Gums and Yellow Gums Potential Mitigation • Move alignment 20 m to east (from tape on fence) to GPS reading, i.e. choose Strategies gap through road reserve Further Study/Survey • -

A3-46 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 49 Land System Wimmera Plains Location Adjoining Grass Tree Conservation Park, Boddingtons Road Easting 04 74782 Northing 59 25607 Ecological Vegetation Highly modified Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Scattered eucalypts over open Fauna Habitat Quality Low grassland Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State Red-necked Wallaby (SA NPW) feeding habitat only: cover provided by adjoining Conservation Park Regional - Comments Flora Very degraded, long history of grazing, Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygn. Fauna Cattle grazed area on sandy soils. Multi-aged eucalypts over grassland. E. aromaphloia and Yellow Gum over Juncus sp., Xanthorrhoea sp., Bracken and pasture grasses. Banksia marginata in road reserve.

Potential Impacts • Degraded and grazed, no significant impacts likely Potential Mitigation • Avoid eucalypts Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-47 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 50 Land System Southern Mallee Location Morambro Creek and Bordertown Road Reserve Easting 04 67251 Northing 59 37743 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis – Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Eucalyptus leucoxylon Woodland Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Grassy Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Moderate Woodland with Yellow Gum – 2) Moderate Road Reserve. 2) River Red Gum Grassy Woodland over pasture along Morambro Creek. Significant Fauna National Bush Stone-curlew (SA NPW), Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (EPBCA, (potential habitat) SA NPW), Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Brown Treecreeper State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW), Yellow-tailed Black- Cockatoo (SA NPW), Sugar Glider (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Roadside remnant; adjoining paddocks and creek floodplain, also Banksia marginata and Carex tereticaulis, stream severely degraded. Fauna Multi-aged stand of River Red Gums and Yellow Gums, including large, hollow-bearing trees. Good nectar source. Banksia marginata on east side road reserve. Exotic grassy ground layer in road reserve: pasture in paddock. Creek dry during inspection – low instream habitat quality.

Potential Impacts • Removal of Red Gum, Yellow Gum • Stream bed dry and very degraded, no impacts anticipated

Potential Mitigation • Avoid Red Gums, Yellow Gum Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-48 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 51 Land System Southern Mallee Location Area adjoining Padthaway Conservation Park Easting 04 60816 Northing 59 48787 Ecological Vegetation 1) Eucalyptus diversifolia – Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 5 Classes Xanthorrhoea caespitosa Mallee. 2) Eucalyptus leucoxylon Woodland Conservation Status 1) D 2)V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low. 2) Low. diversifolia/Xanthorrhoea Mallee 3) Moderate. over pasture (south side of road). 2) Yellow Gum Woodland over pasture (south side). 3) Eucalyptus diversifolia Open Mallee surrounded by pasture (north side). Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW) in Yellow Gum Woodland (potential habitat) State Koala (SA NPW), Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum Comments Flora Apart from scattered eucalypts and Xanthorrhoea vegetation exotic. Trees in ploughed paddock. Calcarenite ridge with terra rosa A horizon pH 7. Fauna Scattered E. diversifolia and a Xanthorrhoea sp. over grazed pasture immediately south of road. Scattered Yellow Gum over ploughed land to south. North side of road supports denser, small patches of E. diversifolia Mallee over pasture.

Potential Impacts • Removal of Yellow Gum • Xanthorrhoea sp. and Eucalyptus diversifolia

Potential Mitigation • Avoid mature Yellow Gums and minimise loss of Eucalyptus diversifolia Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-49 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 52 Land System Southern Mallee Location Rowney Road Easting 04 46101 Northing 59 67757 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus diversifolia (and E. Vegetation Quality 2 Classes incrassata) Mallee Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus diversifolia/Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality Excellent incrassata Heathy Mallee – road reserves Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin (SA NPW), Western Whipbird (EPBCA, SA NPW), (potential habitat) Red-lored Whistler (EPBCA, SA NPW), Western Whipbird (EPBCA, SA NPW), Regent Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW) State Slender-billed Thornbill (SA NPW) Regional Common Dunnart, Silky Mouse, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin, Purple-gaped Honeyeater, Shy Heathwren Comments Flora High quality old growth roadside vegetation contiguous and wide reserves. Other species: Melaleuca uncinata, Lepidosperma viscidum, Xanthorrhoea caespitosa. Leptospermum myrsinoides, Allocasuarina pusilla, Banksia marginata. Fauna Wide reserves (10-15 m wide) supporting excellent quality E. diversifolia/E. incrassata Mallee (including old growth E. diversifolia) over heathy understorey. Broombush, Allocasuarina pusilla, Xanthorrhoea sp., Banksia marginata, Hibbertia serricea and sedges present in the understorey.

Potential Impacts • Loss of roadside remnant and potential loss of connectivity Potential Mitigation • Investigate other nearby crossing point Strategies • Avoid tree removal • Minimise construction width • Specific technique for minimising damage to understorey vegetation • Rehabilitate Further Study/Survey • Determine best crossing point

A3-50 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 53 Land System Southern Mallee Location One Hundred Line Road Easting 04 32747 Northing 59 90446 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus incrassata Mallee Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type 1) Eucalyptus incrassata Mallee Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate over exotic grassland - road reserves. 2) Scattered Yellow Gum over pasture. Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; occasional visitor (potential habitat) from more northern areas of Mallee) State - Regional Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin Comments Flora Degraded roadside remnant, abundance of gaps. Fauna Roadside reserves support Mallee with an exotic grassy understorey: reserves are surrounded by pasture. Mallee-form Eucalyptus arenacea also in road reserve. Remnant scattered Yellow Gums in paddocks

Potential Impacts • Loss of Eucalyptus incrassata or Eucalyptus leucoxylon in paddock. Potential Mitigation • Avoid trees Strategies

Further Study/Survey • - Site 54 Land System Southern mallee Location Keith - Cantara Rd Easting 04 31638 Northing 59 94165 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus leucoxylon Woodland Vegetation Quality 4-5 Classes Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type Scattered Yellow Gum over Fauna Habitat Quality Low pasture in paddocks Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; low likelihood), Bush Stone-curlew (potential habitat) (SA NPW), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW; low likelihood), Brown Treecreeper (low likelihood) State Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora No vegetation in road reserve, scattered E. leucoxylon in adjoining paddocks. Fauna No indigenous vegetation in roadside reserves. Remnant scattered Yellow Gums over pasture in paddocks, include budding trees, but no old growth trees.

Potential Impacts • Loss of E. leucoxylon in paddocks Potential Mitigation • Avoid trees Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-51 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 55 Land System Southern Mallee Location Browns Road, Martins Camp Road, Monkoora Excahnge Road Intersection Easting 04 23241 Northing 60 06926 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus leucoxylon. Woodland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes with Melaleuca brevifolia and Melaleuca lanceolata Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Scattered Yellow Gum with Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Melaleuca brevifolia and Melaleuca lanceolata in understorey and grassy ground layer. 2) Scattered Yellow Gum over ploughed paddocks. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; low likelihood), Black-chinned (potential habitat) Honeyeater (SA NPW; low likelihood), Brown Treecreeper (low likelihood) State Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Road reserves with most remnants just back from junction. Shallow sand over clay; leached acid sands. Fauna Dense thickets of Melaleuca forming two tiers under scattered Yellow Gum in road reserves. Remnant scattered Yellow Gums in ploughed paddocks adjoining road reserves. Potential Impacts • Loss of eucalypts and melaleucas Potential Mitigation • Present alignment through junction should avoid remnants Strategies

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-52 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 56 Land System Southern Mallee Location Lucas Road Easting 04 14746 Northing 60 19477 Ecological Vegetation Melaleuca halmaturorum – Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Halosarcia halocnemoides Open Woodland Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type 1) Melaleuca halmaturorum over Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate saline shrubland (Halosarcia sp.). 2) Scattered Yellow Gum over pasture paddocks. Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; low likelihood), Black-chinned (potential habitat) Honeyeater (SA NPW; low likelihood), Brown Treecreeper (low likelihood) State Little Lorikeet (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit Comments Flora Discharge zone, primary salinity probably exacerbated, dieback evident in old growth Mel. hal., site previously cultivated. Fauna Dense thickets of Melaleuca forming two tiers under scattered Yellow Gum in road reserves. Remnant scattered Yellow Gums in ploughed paddocks adjoining road reserves.

Potential Impacts • Loss of some community remnant • (Dianella revoluta var. brev) in road reserve Potential Mitigation • Melaleuca halmaturorum is sparse and easily avoided Strategies • Halos is c. 20% and locally denser but narrow construction corridor possible • Halos would probably recolonise but require some planting; dry season construction

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-53 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 57 Land System Southern Mallee Location Lucas Road Easting 04 14372 Northing 60 20382 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus leucoxylon Heathy Vegetation Quality 2-3 Classes Woodland with Xanthorrhoea caespitosa and Banksia ornata, Conservation Status D Lepidosperma viscidum, Itypos fast, Leptospermum myrsinoides, Eucalyptus incrassata Fauna Habitat Type Yellow Gum Heathy Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good Significant Fauna National Swift Parrot (EPBC, SA NPW)), Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA (potential habitat) NPW) State Little Lorikeet (SA NPW), Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo (SA NPWS), Common Wombat (SA NPW), Red-necked Wallaby (SA NPW), Slender-billed Thornbill (SA NPW), Sugar Glider (SA NPW) Regional Crested Shriketit, Shy Heathwren, Common Dunnart, Little Pygmy- possum, Western Pygmy-possum Comments Flora Reasonable quality but grazed, approx 200 – 250 m of vegetated dune. Fauna Grazed, but generally good remnant of Heathy Woodland on a sandy hill, including Eucalyptus incrassata, Xanthorrhoea caespitosa and Banksia ornata. Approximately 200 m wide stretch of Woodland. The heathy Woodland may provide cover for the Red-necked Wallaby which may feed in adjoining open pasture (moderate likelihood of occurrence). The Sugar Glider is known from Yellow Gum with Xanthorrhoea and Banksia in the understorey and may potentially occur at this Site (low-moderate).

Potential Impacts • Loss of vegetation • Dune destabilisation • Also crosses blowout to north

Potential Mitigation • Shift alignment to west to avoid vegetated dune and blowouts Strategies Further Study/Survey • Not required unless dune impacted

A3-54 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 58 Land System Southern Mallee Location Coonalpyn - Field Road Easting 03 92978 Northing 60 46659 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus socialis, E. dumosa, E. Vegetation quality 2 Classes gracilis Mallee Conservation status D Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus socialis/Eucalyptus Fauna habitat quality Good-Excellent dumosa Mallee over exotic grassland - Rd reserves Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (EPBC, occasional visitor from more (potential habitat) northern areas of Mallee) State Striped Honeyeater (SA NPW) Regional Common Dunnart, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin Comments Flora Roadside remnants. Other species Lasiopetalum behrii, Grevillea aquifolium, Melaleuca uncinata, Billardiera scandens, Clematis aristata, Mel incl, Bursaria spinosa var spinosa, Olearia ramulosa, Baeckea crassifolia. Shallow red sands on calcarenite. Fauna Diverse stand of Mallee in wide roadside reserves (c. 50 m north side of road and c. 18 m south side). A good litter layer and fallen timber are present with scattered grass tussocks and scattered rocks. Bark-shed and Dodder Laurel are present in the canopy: this is not a stand of old growth.

Potential Impacts • Road reserve is wide (50 m north) and 20 m south and substantially intact • Major impact is loss of vegetation and loss of connectivity

Potential Mitigation • Check for least impact route Strategies • Minimise construction width/bore • Rehabilitate Further Study/Survey • Seasonal flora survey may be required

A3-55 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 59 Land System Southern Mallee Location Butlers Way

Easting 03 83817 Northing 60 58532 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus diversifolia and E. gracilis Vegetation Quality 1 Classes Mallee (Xanthorrhoea caespitosa, Leptospermum myrsinoides, Crypt Conservation Status D tom, Itihb rip, Astroloma conostephoides, Glischcaryon behrii, Bach cross, Allocasuarina pusilla, Leprol vis, Exocarpus sparteus). Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus diversifolia Heathy Fauna Habitat Quality Excellent Mallee Significant Fauna National Malleefowl (EPBCA, SA NPW), Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (potential habitat) (EPBCA, SA NPW; occasional visitor from more northern areas of Mallee), Red-lored Whistler (EPBCA, SA NPW), Western Whipbird (EPBCA, SA NPW) State Slender-billed Thornbill (SA NPW), Striped Honeyeater (SA NPW) Regional Silky Mouse, Common Dunnart, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin (detected), Shy Heathwren, Purple-gaped Honeyeater Comments Flora Large intact block of Mallee on pale sand over calcarenite, road through centre, E. diversifolia in flower. pH 6.5. Fauna A large remnant of c. 100 ha bisected by a track. This is not a stand of old growth, but is in excellent condition nonetheless. Potential Impacts • Loss of intact Mallee • Exacerbation of fragmentation effects • Paddocks have wild pumpkin

Potential Mitigation • Place in cleared road easement c. 10 – 12 m Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Flora and fauna survey required if any appreciable clearing

A3-56 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 60 Land System Southern Mallee Location Frost Road Easting 03 81847 Northing 60 62986 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus diversifolia – E. gracilis Vegetation Quality 2 Classes Mallee (with Allocasuarina muelleriana, Melaleuca lanceolata, Conservation Status D Lasiopetalum behrii) Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus diversifolia Heathy Fauna Habitat Quality Good-Excellent Mallee (with Eucalyptus gracilis) – road reserve Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; occasional visitor (potential habitat) from more northern areas of Mallee), Western Whipbird (EPBCA, SA NPW), Red-lored Whistler (EPBCA, SA NPW) State Slender-billed Thornbill (SA NPW), Striped Honeyeater (SA NPW) Regional Silky Mouse, Common Dunnart, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin, Shy Heathwren, Purple-gaped Honeyeater Comments Flora Wide road reserve and contiguous Mallee. Fauna Road reserves of c. 21 m in north (with a fire break at 15 m) and 25 m in south. Some old growth eucalypts present with a dense shrublayer and moderate ground layer: scattered surface rocks are also present. Allocasuarina sp., Correa sp. and Melaleuca sp. are present.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Mallee • Loss of connectivity Potential Mitigation • Current (tagged) alignment probably at lesser end of impacts Strategies • Construction protocols: minimise construction width, slash vegetation, removal limited to over trench; rehabilitate Further Study/Survey • Seasonal plant survey advised

A3-57 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 61 Land System Southern Mallee Location Yumali Road Easting 03 81180 Northing 60 65113 Ecological Vegetation E. diversifolia – E. incrassata Mallee Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus diversifolia Heathy Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Mallee (with Eucalyptus gracilis)–Rd reserve Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; occasional visitor (potential habitat) from more northern areas of Mallee), Western Whipbird (EPBCA, SA NPW), Red-lored Whistler (EPBCA, SA NPW) State Slender-billed Thornbill (SA NPW), Striped Honeyeater (SA NPW) Regional Silky Mouse, Common Dunnart, Western Pygmy-possum, Little Pygmy-possum, Southern Scrub-robin Comments Flora Site of crossing more degraded than above but similar floristics, road reserve generally wide (20 – 15 m) and continuous. Fauna Similar floristics to Site 60. However, site is more degraded than Frost Road: narrower reserve with a wide fire break and has been used as a rubbish dump (south side). Potential Impacts • Loss of Mallee and connectivity Potential Mitigation • Chosen generally disturbed section to cross Strategies • Implement crossing protocols as above Further Study/Survey • Seasonal plant survey advised for south side and north side near tip in roadside

Site 62 Land System Southern Mallee Location Dukes Highway Easting 03 76024 Northing 60 75485 Ecological Vegetation Halosarcia pergranulata Low Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Shrubland and open water lagoons Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type Halosarcia saline shrubland Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Significant Fauna National Latham’s Snipe (SA NPW, EPBCA) (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Primary saline site on dense lacustine dolomite and internally drained, large saline waterbodies. Extensive site, grazed out from route aligned. Fauna Probably a good wetland bird site. Ephemeral wetland to east, adjoining shrubland where alignment crosses. This is a natural saline discharge point, which is grazed by sheep.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Halosarcia pergranulata shrubland • Seasonally wet

Potential Mitigation • Avoid, align in paddock to south west Strategies Further Study/Survey • Unnecessary if avoided

A3-58 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 63 Land System Southern Mallee Location Un-named track off Dukes Highway Easting 03 72995 Northing 60 78803 Ecological Vegetation E. dumosa – E. socialis – E. gracilis Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Mallee Conservation Status D Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus socialis/Eucalyptus Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate-Good dumosa Savanna Mallee (=modified Heathy Mallee) Significant Fauna National Hooded Robin, Regent Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW; occasional visitor (potential habitat) from more northern areas of Mallee) State Striped Honeyeater (SA NPW) Regional - Comments Flora Small patch of Mallee , understorey disturbed but good Eucalyptus canopy and population of old growth Eucalyptus behriana on eastern side. Fauna E. dumosa and E. socialis with Moonah (Melaleuca lanceolata) scattered over savanna grassland: probably formerly Heathy Mallee with the shrub layer removed/scraped off.

Potential Impacts • Loss of moderate quality Mallee Potential Mitigation • Avoid or place route in the south – south east section where tree density lowest, Strategies then cross road into minimum construction width • Avoid old growth Eucalyptus behriana

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-59 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 67 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location South Para Road (Eckerman Road) Easting 02 94527 Northing 61 67024 Ecological Vegetation 1) E. fasciculosa Woodland (with Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 3 Classes Typha sp and Juncus sp.). 2) Pasp – Ennae derived grassland. Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Eucalyptus fasciculosa Riparian Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low. 2) Low. vegetation. 2) Stipa/Danthonia grassy slopes of steepish valley. Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Creek crossing on water pipeline easement, E. fasciculosa sparse, understorey degraded. Small grassland patch on east west side of pipe just of Echerman Road. Species Danthonia, Anthro stric, Lomandra sp, Stipa sp Lepidium sp. Fauna Scattered Eucalyptus fasciculosa over a Typha/Juncus dominated creekline, with degraded grassland upslope on steepish valley: grassland results from past-clearing of eucalypts. Grassland includes Stipa and Danthonia. Surface rock outcropping is present on slopes and along creekline.

Potential Impacts • Loss of E. fasciculosa • In-stream effects • Loss of grassland remnant

Potential Mitigation • Avoid E. fasciculosa in stream crosses Strategies • Stream crossing protocols • Minimise impact on grasslands • Avoid or specific alignment techniques

Further Study/Survey • Seasonal surveys of grassland site

A3-60 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 68 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location Mamba Road – Lyndoch Creek crossing Easting 03 06208 Northing 61 64773 Ecological Vegetation E. camaldulensis ssp camaldulensis Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Woodland *Olea major weed in Ck Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type River Red Gum dominated Fauna Habitat Quality Low-Moderate creekline with an understorey of olives Significant Fauna National Black-chinned Honeyeater (potential habitat) State Crested Shriketit Regional - Comments Flora Scattered mature and old Red Gum in paddocks and along creek. Also young regrowth Red Gum. Fauna River Red Gum dominated creekline with a shrub understorey of olives, and grassy banks. The creekline is surrounded by vineyards. A good multi-aged stand of large (but non-hollow-bearing) River Red Gums: the corridor is well connected to a second good stand of Red Gums in the road reserve. The creekline was dry during survey and supports little in-stream value.

Potential Impacts • Loss of young Red Gum stand on west side of Creek • Loss of mature/old growth Red Gum

Potential Mitigation • Difficult to mitigate loss of Red Gum with current alignment Strategies • Possibly better alignment to north Further Study/Survey • -

A3-61 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 69 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location Victoria Creek – Springton Road Easting 03 10972 Northing 61 61097 Ecological Vegetation E. camaldulensis spp. camaldulensis Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Woodland Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) River Red Gum Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low. 2) Low. along creekline. 2) Manna Gum 3) Low. Forest over exotic grassland upslope. 3) Pinus radiata Forest. Significant Fauna National Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Diamond Firetail (SA NPW) (potential habitat) State Red-necked Wallaby (SA NPW), Koala (SA NPW), Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo (SA NPW), Crested Shriketit (SA NPW) Regional - Comments Flora Degraded stream crossing with scattered E. camaldulensis. and E. viminalis ssp. syn Major weeds Salix, Delairea. odorata, Watsonia bulb., Ulex europaeus.. Fauna Asymetrical creek valley – steep slope with rock outcropping. Very weedy creekline with Willows and Gorse in understorey. River Red Gum dominated creekline with Manna Gum upslope – good bark- shed and an abundance of mistletoe in Mann Gums. Creek is shallow and muddy and supports little instream value.

Potential Impacts • Loss of eucalypts • In-stream issues • Transport of weed seed Potential Mitigation • Avoid eucalypts Strategies • Stream crossing protocols Further Study/Survey • -

A3-62 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 70 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location Glen Devin Road adjoining Mount Crawford State Forest Easting 03 17438 Northing 61 57701 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus fascicularis and E. Vegetation Quality 2 –3 (road reserve Classes viminalis ssp. cyg Woodland with and within Mt Banksia marginata, Acacia pycnantha C.F.) 4 – 5 in paddock Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Eucalyptus fasciculosa Woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Overall Moderate- with grassy understorey. 2) Open Good grassy clearings. 3) Pinus radiata Forest. Significant Fauna National Black-chinned Honeyeater (SA NPW), Diamond Firetail (SA NPW) (potential habitat) State Red-necked Wallaby (SA NPW, scats of this species detected, and one animal seen on opposite side of Mount Crawford), Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo (SA NPW), Crested Shriketit (SA NPW), Painted Button-quail (SA NPW) Regional - Comments Flora Good quality vegetation in road reserve and Mt Crawford Forest verge, roadside remnant contiguous through pines plantation. Fauna Best vegetation occurs in the road reserve and easement (adjoining paddock) where the woodland supports a diverse ground layer, including Xanthorrhoea sp., Dianella sp. and Lepidosperma sp. Scattered eucalypts, wattles and banksias occur in the road reserve, and mistletoes are abundant in the canopy. Eucalypts are not hollow-bearing, and occur over pasture within the adjoining paddock. Red-necked Wallaby scats were detected in the diverse grassy understorey in the easement and in the road reserve. Potential Impacts • Loss of E. fascicularis Woodland remnant • Loss individual trees

Potential Mitigation • Locate in paddock and avoid trees as far as possible Strategies • After intersection align route in Mt Crawford in cleared section between pines and road; do not use road reserve through plantations

Further Study/Survey • Flora – seasonal survey if any appreciable clearing

A3-63 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 71 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location McBeans Road – road reserve and adjoining paddock Easting 03 21641 Northing 61 53838 Ecological Vegetation 1) E. viminalis ssp. cygn Woodland Vegetation Quality 1) 5 2) 3 Classes 2) other euc (E. camal ? E. fascicularis) Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Themeda grassland Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Moderate. with/without Manna 2) Low-Moderate. Gum/Eucalyptus fasciculosa in road 3) Low. 4) Low. reserve. 2) River Red Gum Grassy Woodland in paddock. 3) Pasture Grassland. 4) Farm dam/wetland. Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Q 5 in paddocks. With grassland remnants Themeda, Acaena, Athrop in roadside reserve north of corner. Fauna Manna Gum/Eucalyptus fasciculosa in the road reserve are of moderate age and are hollow-bearing. There are also some old growth eucalypts over grassland in the paddock scattered around the large farm dam/wetland.

Potential Impacts • At corner where route crosses no grassland remnants but old growth E. viminalis ssp. cygn and E. fasciculosa Potential Mitigation • Avoid old growth eucalypts Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-64 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 72 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location Palmer–Cooks Hill Rd – Geological/ Geomorphological site Easting 03 30550 Northing 61 47750 Ecological Vegetation - Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Pasture with (alluvial flan Fauna Habitat Quality Low intercepted) outcropping granite Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Alluvial fan in dissected granite dominated valley. Fauna -

Potential Impacts • None Potential Mitigation • - Strategies Further Study/Survey • -

A3-65 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 73 Land System Mt Lofty Ranges Location Milendella Creek - Palmer/Cooks Hill Road Easting 03 30880 Northing 61 46795 Ecological Vegetation Carex bichenoviana Sedgeland Vegetation Quality 3 Classes with./without Cyperus gymnicaulus Conservation Status V Fauna Habitat Type 1) Carex sedgeland/grassland. Fauna Habitat Quality Low 2) Granite outcropping. 3) Pasture. 4) Ephemeral creekline. Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State Red-necked Wallaby (SA NPW) Regional - Comments Flora Granite outcrops are potential habitat for Prostanthera eumbioides. Carex bichenoviana, Cyperus gymnicaulus are present. There are a couple of ha upslope of the road. Carex bichenoviana is the dominant species. Fauna Carex sedgeland/grassland amongst granite outcropping with lichen and surrounded by pasture. An ephemeral creekline, dry during the survey, and supporting largish, scattered Red Gums, has cut a channel down to Milendella Creek. Scats, possibly from the Red-necked Wallaby, were found in the channel.

Potential Impacts • Loss of Carex Sedgeland. Cyperus dominated vegetation on creekline is probably secondary vegetation. Potential Mitigation • Align upslope beyond remnant and cross creek to south also beyond remnant Strategies • Avoid granite outcrops Further Study/Survey • Determine extent of sedgeland • Flora survey of granite outcrops for Prostanthera eumbioides (EPBCA).

A3-66 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 74 Land System Murraylands Location Reedy Creek (near Abraham Road) (National Estate) Easting 03 35014 Northing 61 33812 Ecological Vegetation 1) Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Vegetation Quality 1) 4 2) 3 Classes camaldulensis Riparian Woodland. 2) Mallee (Eucalyptus behriana) Conservation Status 1) V 2) V with Lomandra effusa. Fauna Habitat Type 1) Degraded River Red Gum Fauna Habitat Quality 1) Low-moderate. Riparian Woodland. 2) Moderate. 2) Degraded Mallee on granite 3) Low. 4) Good. outcropping/ knolls. 3) Pasture. 4) Instream values. Significant Fauna National Dwarf Galaxias (EPBCA, SA NPW; low likelihood), Southern Bell (potential habitat) Frog (EPBCA, SA NPW) State - Regional Water Rat Comments Flora Stream bed species Phragmites and Juncus, Muehlenbeckia sp. and Isolepis sp.. Mostly secondary vegetation. Mallee on gneissic knolls to west; old growth. Fauna Creekline heavily grazed by livestock. However, instream values include dense stands of Phragmites and Juncus with Baumea and Isolepis. There are also deeper, slow-moving pools and shallow, faster flowing areas. There is also underwater vegetation, including filamentous algae, and rocks to provide shelter. Scattered thickets of Lignum also occur on the creek bank. The water quality is probably poor, and low summer flows may preclude the presence of significant fish. However, the presence of the Dwarf Galaxias should not be totally discounted. Overall, good locally common frog, waterbird and reptile habitat. Permanent pools along the Creek, and supporting dense aquatic vegetation, are potential breeding sites for the Nationally significant Southern Bell Frog. However, poor water quality and the effects of livestock, may preclude the presence of this species (low-moderate likelihood of occurrence). Potential Impacts • Loss of Mallee • Loss of Red Gums • In-stream effects Potential Mitigation • Avoid Mallee patches on gneissic knolls Strategies • Red Gums are scattered and could be avoided • Stream crossing protocols

Further Study/Survey • Survey to firm the status of the Southern Bell Frog.

A3-67 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 78 Land System Northern Northern Adelaide Location Potts Road Plains (Evanston Park) Easting 02 93702 Northing 61 65891 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus porosa (+/- E. gracilis) Vegetation Quality 2 Classes grassy woodland Conservation Status Endangered Fauna Habitat Type Eucalyptus porosa grassy woodland Fauna Habitat Quality Good with Enneapogon spp./Stipa spp on gully slopes Significant Fauna National Unknown (potential habitat) State Unknown Regional Unknown Comments Flora Good grass cover on gully slopes. Olea europea, Piptatherum miliaceum, Oxalis pes-caprae, Marrubium vulgare weed infestations. Fauna Fox observed during survey.

Potential Impacts • Loss of grassy woodland remnant • Spread of Olives and Horehound • Erosion on gully slopes Potential Mitigation • Avoid woodland (re-route pipeline west of current alignment/water pipeline) Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Seasonal flora survey of remnant and follow-up monitoring where disturbance occurs

A3-68 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 79 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Bentley Road (Bibaringa) Easting 02 92965 Northing 61 64752 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus porosa grassy woodland Vegetation Quality 2 Classes over Stipa spp on gully slopes. Conservation Status Endangered Fauna Habitat Type Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate Significant Fauna National Unknown (potential habitat) State Unknown Regional Unknown Comments Flora Already some disturbance due to current road building activities on Bentley Road. Oxalis pes-caprae and exotic grasses spreading into remnant. Fauna - Potential Impacts • Loss of Grassy Woodland remnant • Spread of weeds • Erosion on gully slopes

Potential Mitigation • Avoid Woodland Strategies • Re-route pipeline West of existing water pipe and alignment • Implement protocols to cross creek/gully

Further Study/Survey • Seasonal flora survey of remnant

A3-69 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 80 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Bentley Road (Uleybury) Easting 02 92241 Northing 61 63616 Ecological Vegetation Stipa spp. Grassland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status Depleted Fauna Habitat Type Stipa spp. Grassland (degraded) on Fauna Habitat Quality Low gully slopes) Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Possibly degraded remnant of Eucalyptus porosa Grassy Woodland. Weed infestations of Cynara cardunculus (Artichoke thistle) and Lycium ferrocissimum (Aftrican box-thorn). Fauna -

Potential Impacts • Loss of Stipa grassland remnant. Erosion on gully. Spread of African boxthorn and Artichoke thistle Potential Mitigation • Narrow pipeline corridor to minimise disturbance. Control weeds prior to Strategies pipeline construction Further Study/Survey • -

Site 81 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Gale Road (Evanston South) Easting 02 91491 Northing 61 62528 Ecological Vegetation Stipa Grassland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status Depleated Fauna Habitat Type Degraded Stipa Grassland, Fauna Habitat Quality Low possibly remnant of Eucalyptus porosa Grassy Woodland Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Site is currently a council reserve. Lower sections are currently mown and plantings nearby for amenity. Fauna - Potential Impacts • Loss of grassland remnant • Erosion on gully

Potential Mitigation • Narrow pipeline corridor Strategies • Implement protocols to cross creek/gully

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-70 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 82 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Heaslip Road (Penfield Gardens) Easting 02 82743 Northing 61 60737 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 4 Classes Conservation Status Vulnerable Fauna Habitat Type Red-gum woodland with old Fauna Habitat Quality Moderate hollow bearing trees (poor quality understorey) Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Transport SA RSS 864 (Roadside Significant Site) adjacent. Degraded understorey with exotic grasses. Fauna -

Potential Impacts • Damage to old E. camaldulensis trees Potential Mitigation • Avoid trees – alignment should be kept at a distance on western side of Heaslip Strategies road Further Study/Survey • -

Site 83 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Heaslip Road (Penfield Gardens) Easting 02 82512 Northing 61 60269 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus largiflorens Open Vegetation Quality 4 Classes woodland Conservation Status Endangered Fauna Habitat Type River Box open woodland with Fauna Habitat Quality Low degraded understorey but contiguous with higher quality vegetation on property on eastern side of Heaslip Road. Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Transport SA RSS 558 (Roadside Significant Site) adjacent to current alignment. Trees few and in poor condition. Exotic grass understorey. Fauna

Potential Impacts • Damage to remnant trees Potential Mitigation • Avoid trees, no vehicle parking Strategies • Route pipeline at distance on western side of Heaslip road away from RSS 558

Further Study/Survey • -

A3-71 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 84 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Sellar Road (Bolivar) – Crossing Little Para River Easting 02 78986 Northing 61 48382 Ecological Vegetation Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland Vegetation Quality 2 Classes over Typha sp. Conservation Status Endangered Fauna Habitat Type Red gum Woodland over stream Fauna Habitat Quality High bed with Typha sp and reeds. Mature Red gums with hollows. Disturbed away from the river but adjacent to wetland with water birds. Significant Fauna National Unknown (potential habitat) State Unknown Regional Unknown Comments Flora Area disturbed by earthworks. Fauna Frogs audible in river and wetland. White faced herons, Black shouldered kites, New Holland honeyeaters and Australian Shelldrake observed at the site. Potential Impacts • Loss of mature Red gums • Disturbance of reed-beds • Sediment into Little Para River Potential Mitigation • Avoid loss of mature trees Strategies • Implement stream crossing protocols

Further Study/Survey • Monitor impacts of construction on the river

A3-72 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 85 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Penrice Salt Fields (Northern End) Easting 02 79275 Northing 61 46927 Ecological Vegetation Salt Crystalisation Lagoons Vegetation Quality 5 Classes Conservation Status Vulnerable Fauna Habitat Type Salt Crystallisation Lagoons Fauna Habitat Quality High visited by waders – including migratory species Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional Numerous species of migratory birds protected by international treaties (CAMBA/JAMBA) potentially occur in the salt-fields. Some breed in the salt fields. Migratory species observed in the salt-fields area include: Lathams Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Little Curlew, Marsh Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Wood Sandpiper, Terek Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone, Red Knot, Red-necked Stint, Long- toed Stint, Pectoral Sandpiper, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Pacific Golden Plover, White- winged Black Tern and Fork-tailed Swift. Comments Flora - Fauna Current alignment is along access road where some bird species roost. Excavation should be conducted in winter when migratory bird numbers are low. Potential Impacts • Disturbance to migratory and water bird habitat Potential Mitigation • Keep disturbance to current access track Strategies • Excavation should be conducted in winter when migratory bird numbers are low Further Study/Survey • The alignment should be surveyed for presence of bird roosts before excavation

A3-73 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 86 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Greenfield/Barker Inlet Wetlands (Wingfield) Easting 02 78675 Northing 61 42785 Ecological Vegetation Melaleuca spp./Phragmites australis/ Vegetation Quality 2 Classes Typha sp. Wetland complex Conservation Status Constructed (Vulnerable) Fauna Habitat Type Mixed Wetland / Reedbed Fauna Habitat Quality Good mosaic Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State - Regional The wetlands are visited by many water birds and migratory species. Some migratory species are protected under international conventions. Migratory species observed in the Greenfield Wetlands include: Lathams Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Little Curlew, Marsh Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Wood Sandpiper, Terek Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone, Red Knot, Red-necked Stint, Long- toed Stint, Pectoral Sandpiper, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Pacific Golden Plover, White- winged Black Tern and Fork-tailed Swift. Comments Flora - Fauna Other animals known to be present in the Greenfield/Barker Inlet Wetlands include: Brush-tailed Possum, Lesser Long-eared Bat, Native Water-Rat, Marbled Gecko, Morethia adelaidensis, Eastern Blue Tongue, Shingleback Lizard, Bearded Dragon, Eastern Brown Snake, Long-necked Tortoise, Brown Tree Frog, Bull Frog, Marbled Frog, Brown Froglet, Gongoli, Climbing Galaxias, Common Galaxias, Blue- spotted Goby and Callop.

Potential Impacts • Disturbance to wetland • Sediment into wetland

Potential Mitigation • Avoid wetland edges Strategies • Implement wetland protection protocols

Further Study/Survey • Monitor changes in plant health along wetland edges • The alignment should be surveyed for presence of bird roosts before excavation

A3-74 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix III

Site 87 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Gillman – Grand Trunkway Road (Gilman) Easting 02 73648 Northing 61 44737 Ecological Vegetation Halosarcia spp./Nitraria billardierei Vegetation Quality 3 Classes Samphire Shrubland Conservation Status Vulnerable Fauna Habitat Type Salt marsh shrubland Fauna Habitat Quality Good Significant Fauna National Orange-bellied Parrot (EPBCA, SA NPW) (potential habitat) State - Regional - Comments Flora Site difficult to access. Some areas not surveyed. Some areas are patchy and disturbed. Fauna Saltmarsh habitats are utilised by Orange-bellied Parrots for feeding. The Adelaide area was formerly a good area for Orange-bellied Parrots. They now appear to be infrequent visitors to the area. Possibly a low likelihood of regular occurrence in the saltmarsh.

Potential Impacts • Samphire removal Potential Mitigation • Minimise disturbance corridor Strategies • Rehabilitate after construction • Undertake works outside months (late-March to early November) when Orange-bellied Parrots visit the mainland from Tasmania

Further Study/Survey • Detailed seasonal survey and follow-up monitoring required • Detailed survey of saltmarsh habitats prior to commencing construction works

A3-75 Appendix III SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Site 88 Land System Northern Adelaide Plains Location Torrens Island (not visited) Easting Northing Ecological Vegetation Vegetation Quality - Classes Conservation Status - Fauna Habitat Type Coastal foreshore Fauna Habitat Quality - Significant Fauna National - (potential habitat) State The following species with conservation ratings (SA) have been observed along the northern end of Torrens Island : Fairy Tern – V, Pacific Gull – U, Pied Oystercatcher – U, Eastern Curlew – V, Glossy Ibis – R, White Necked Heron – U. Regional - Comments Flora - Fauna -

Potential Impacts • - Potential Mitigation • - Strategies

Further Study/Survey • Survey of the proposed pipeline route on Torrens Island should be carried out. Depending on the results of initial survey, follow-up monitoring surveys should be conducted after construction.

A3-76 Site information for EPBC Act 1999, NPW Act 1972 and FFG Act 1988 listed species and communities. EER/EIR SEA GasProject

Site(s) Location Listed Item EPBC NPW FFG Potential Impact Potential Mitigation Residual Level of Strategies Impact Confidence

2 Curdie Vale - Port Rufous Bristlebird - - + Loss of habitat Survey to determine -- Campbell Road status 5 Curdies River Yarra Pygmy – Perch (low V V + None predicted Directional drill Low Moderate-high likelihood of occurrence) where alignment crosses. 8 Hopkins River Australian Grayling V V +Disturbance to instream Directional drill Low Moderate habitat and sedimentation Yarra Pygmy Perch V V + Fish survey to determine status Dwarf Galaxias VV+ 11 Woolsthorpe – Dianella ameona (known) V - - Loss of part population Directional drill / Negligible High Koroit Rd, South of bore under road Woolsthorpe reserve Striped Legless Lizard V V + Loss of habitat and/or (potential) individuals A3-77 Plains Grassland - - + 12 Penshurst – Striped Legless Lizard V V + Loss of habitat and/or Directional drill / Negligible High Warrnambool (potential) individuals bore under road Road, East of reserve Willatook Plains Grassland - - + 15 Waterloo Lane Striped Legless Lizard VV+Loss of habitat and/or Align in paddock to Negligible High Road Reserve, (potential) individuals north or south Southeast of Macarthur 16 Breakfast Creek, Southern bell Frog V V + Loss part of population Survey to determine Currently north of Macarthur status unknown Disruption to individuals Dwarf Galaxias (potential) V V + Unknown Fish survey to Currently Moderate Appendix III Appendix III Site(s) Location Listed Item EPBC NPW FFG Potential Impact Potential Mitigation Residual Level of Strategies Impact Confidence 16 (continued) determine status unknown Carex tasmanica V - + Loss of part population Realign to avoid Impact on low major population no. of plants 17 Harman Valley Striped Legless Lizard Loss of habitat and/or Additional surveys to Currently Volcanics, individuals assess least sensitive unknown northwest of route Macarthur 20-21 Disused Rail Dianella ameona (known) V - - Loss of part population Align in paddock to None High Reserve – South the south West of Banxholme Plains Grassland - - + Loss of part population Striped Legless Lizard V V + Loss of habitat and/or individuals Numerous Glenelg River (Vic) Red-tailed Black-cockatoo EE+Removal of nesting and Avoid nesting habitat Low – Moderate - high to Padthaway (SA) feeding habitat (old growth Eucalyptus significant and stags) impact unlikely Disturbance to breeding

A3-78 birds Avoid any appreciable loss of foraging habitat (Heathy woodland). Construct outside breeding season in known areas 25 Glenelg River Variegated Pygmy Perch V V + None predicted (low Directional drill or Low – Moderate-high likelihood of occurrence trench in dry significant at position of alignment conditions with no impact unlikely crossing) removal of Red Gums Rehabilitate banks Yarra Pygmy Perch V V + 30, 31, 32, 36 Casterton – Apsley Southern Brown Bandicoot VV-Loss of habitat (Heathy Align in existing Low – Moderate – high

Rd, Roseneath, (potential) Woodland and Sand power line easement significant EER/EIR SEA GasProject Roseneath State Heath) and rehabilitate. impact unlikely Forest and freehold, E a rjc EER/EIR SEA GasProject Site(s) Location Listed Item EPBC NPW FFG Potential Impact Potential Mitigation Residual Level of Strategies Impact Confidence

30, 31, 32, 36 near Dergholm Increase fragmentation Surveys to determine (continued) and edge effects. status Red-tailed Black-cockatoo E E + Loss of foraging habitat Align in existing Low – High (known) power easement and significant rehabilitate impact unlikely

Heath Mouse (potential) V-+Loss of habitat, increase Align in existing Low – Moderate fragmentation and edge power easement and significant effects rehabilitate impact unlikely Survey to determine status Numerous Dergholm (Vic) – Swift Parrot EV+Loss of feeding habitat Avoid removal of Low – High Murray River (SA) (South Australian Blue South Australian Blue significant Gum) Gum impact unlikely 59 Butlers Way (South Malleefowl (potential) V V + Loss of habitat Align in existing road Low – High West of Coonalpyn) clearing significant

A3-79 impact unlikely Red-lored Whistler VV+Disturbance to nesting Construct outside key Low Moderate (potential) birds breeding period Regent Parrot (occasional) VV+ Western (Mallee) Whipbird) VV+ Mallee Emu-wren VV+ (potential) 58, 60 Road Reserve, Mallee Woodland birds (not V V + Loss of habitat Minimise vegetation Low Moderate Southwest and Mallee fowl) as above loss and rehabilitate Northwest of Coonalpyn 76 Army Range Road, Lomandra effusa Grassland Sub- - - Loss of part of community Avoid by aligning to Low High East of Murray mitted west. Bridge Appendix III Appendix III Site(s) Location Listed Item EPBC NPW FFG Potential Impact Potential Mitigation Residual Level of Strategies Impact Confidence

77 Murray River Trout Cod (low likelihood E P + None predicted Significant High of occurrence) impact unlikely Murray Hardyhead VV-Not known because of Directional Drill Currently - uncertain status unknown Fish survey to firm status 73 Palmer – Cooks Hill Prostanthera eurybioides E E - Not known Avoid areas of likely Survey to - Road (potential) habitat: granite determine status

85-88 Coastal including CAMBA/ JAMBA listed + - - Loss of habitat Align to avoid Low Moderate to high Barkers Inlet – wader/shorebird species significant habitat Torrens Island Construction related Complex disturbance Construct outside summer migration period Orange-bellied Parrot E E + Loss of habitat Align to avoid Low Moderate to high A3-80 significant habitat Construction related disturbance Survey to firm status prior to undertaking construction activities Construct outside migration period (March and September) E a rjc EER/EIR SEA GasProject SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Appendix IV

Preliminary Risk Assessment

A4-1 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A4-2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

SEA Gas Pipeline Project AS 2885 Preliminary Pipeline Risk Assessment and Detailed Procedure

Prepared for: SEA Gas Pty Ltd GPO Box 2666 ADELAIDE SA 5001 Telephone (08) 8217 5859,Facsimile (08) 8217 5858

Prepared by: Brown & Root Services Asia Pacific Pty Ltd ABN 91 007 660 317 186 Greenhill Road, Parkside, South Australia SA 5063 Telephone (08) 8301 1234,Facsimile (08) 8301 1401

8 October 2001

AE1233-X-001-Rev. 1

A4-3 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Brown & Root Services Asia Pacific Pty Ltd (formerly Kinhill) is a member of the Australian Engineering Achievers Group. Members of the Group adhere to best practice in their fields of engineering endeavour and are leaders in industry excellence. They demonstrate Australia’s expertise in the field of engineering and show innovation in the way engineering solutions are developed and implemented.

Acknowledgments

Limitations Statement The sole purpose of this report and the associated services performed by Brown & Root Services Asia Pacific Pty Ltd (Brown & Root) is to determine and assess the risks of installing the SEA Gas pipeline in the preliminary phase in accordance with the scope of services set out in the contract between Brown & Root and SEA Gas Pty Ltd (‘the Client’). That scope of services was defined by the requests of the Client, by the time and budgetary constraints imposed by the Client, and by the availability of access to the site.

Brown & Root derived the data in this report primarily from examination of records in the public domain and interviews with individuals.The passage of time, manifestation of latent conditions or impacts of future events may require further exploration at the site and subsequent data analysis, and re-evaluation of the findings, observations and conclusions expressed in this report.

In preparing this report, Brown & Root has relied upon and presumed accurate certain information provided by the Client and others identified herein.

The findings, observations and conclusions expressed by Brown & Root in this report are not, and should not be considered, an opinion. No warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied, is made with respect to the data reported or to the findings, observations and conclusions expressed in this report. Further, such data, findings, observations and conclusions are based solely upon information supplied by the Client in existence at the time of the investigation.

This report has been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of the Client, and is subject to and issued in connection with the provisions of the agreement between Brown & Root and the Client. Brown & Root accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any third party.

A4-4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Document Status Record

Project Number AE1233 Sheet 1 of 1

Project title SEA Gas Pipeline Project Client SEA Gas Pty Ltd Document title AS2885.1 Preliminary Risk Assessment and Detailed Procedure Document type Report Document code AE1233-X-001 First issue date 22 August 2001 This sheet records the issue and revisions of the document. If only a few revisions are made, only the new or revised pages are issued. For convenience, the nature of the revision is briefly noted under ‘Remarks’, but these remarks are not part of the document.

Revision Date Chapter/section/page revised, plus any remarks Signatures code revised Originator Checked Approved

0 22/8/01 Issue to client MM SP JHP 1 8/10/01 Page 3, pipe wall thickness altered MM JT SP

A4-5 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Contents

Section Page 1 Introduction A4-7 2 Pipeline Environment A4-7 3 Pipeline Design and Operation A4-8 4 Risk Assessment Methodology A4-9 5 Preliminary Assessment A4-12

Appendices A AS 2885.1 Risk Assessment Process A4-29 B Preliminary Risk Assessment A4-33

A4-6 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

AS 2885.1 – 1997 Preliminary Risk Assessment and Detailed Procedure 1 Introduction regions. The Northern Adelaide Plains and the Mt Lofty Ranges incorporate some hobby farming and built up South East Australia Gas Pty Ltd (SEA Gas),a joint venture regions. A list of land use segments and crossing segments is company owned by Origin Energy and Australian given in Section 5 of this document. National Power, propose to build a pipeline to supply natural gas from Western Victoria (near Port Campbell) to Soil types the Adelaide market. The pipeline passes through a variety of soils types as detailed in Table 2.1. As part of the preliminary design phase of the project, a Temperature preliminary pipeline risk assessment and accompanying Based on measured data taken along the pipeline route, the procedure for the detailed assessment (to be conducted pipeline will experience ground temperature ranges from during the detailed design phase) has been composed and is 5°C to 30°C along various sections of the route, over an included in this document. Both the preliminary and annual period. detailed risk assessment procedures are in accordance with AS 2885.1-1997 (Pipelines - Gas and Liquid Petroleum, The average maximum summer temperature is 40°C and Part 1:Design and construction). the average minimum winter temperature is 5°C.

Elevation 2 Pipeline Environment The elevation of the pipe will range from sea level near the Land use coast and at various river crossings to around 500 m The proposed pipeline will follow the route indicated in Australian Height Datum (AHD) at the Mt Lofty Ranges. Figure 1 of the Main Report. Gas composition The pipeline will predominantly pass through open,gently Dry natural gas will be transported and will be processed to undulating dryland grazing country stocked predomi- achieve sales quality. The proposed composition of the gas nantly with either sheep and/or cattle with some cropping will comply with the Victorian VENCORP standard.

Table 2.1 Soil types

Pipeline Section Soil description

South-western Victoria Deep quartz sands, calcareous sands, grey brown loam/clay, and grey brown sands. South-east South Australia Sandy/sandyloam rises, flats and depressions sometimes overlying limestone which comes to the surface in localised regions. Murray Mallee Sandy soils incorporated in long low lying rises, flats and depressions. North Mt Lofty Ranges Red-brown earths and loams in broad valleys and gentle slope. Shallow loams and lithosols on steep hills and slopes. Northern Adelaide Plains Gently undulating brown loamy sands, fine sandy loams, grey brown salty clays and clay loams. Saline soils are present on coastal region. (reference: SEA Gas Pipeline Feasibility Report).

A4-7 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

3 Pipeline Design and Operation the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA) enabling remote control. Design,construction and installation of the pipeline will be in accordance with AS 2885.1. Initially one compressor station will be required near Padthaway (South Australia) to recharge the gas pressure in Pipeline Material the line and enable the required daily flowrate to be The pipeline material will be grade API 5L X70. The wall achieved. The BHP and Minerva Plant will supply gas to thickness of the pipe will be 7.84 mm (as required by the start of the pipeline at the MAOP. Clause 4.3.4 of AS 2885.1). Heavier wall thickness will be employed as a physical method of protection of the The pipeline will be designed to operate at the MAOP and pipeline where deemed suitable in the detailed risk assess- the compressor station will be controlled to not exceed the ment conducted in the design phase. MAOP.

Corrosion Management and Mechanical Operations and Maintenance Protection The pipeline and compressor station(s) will be monitored The pipeline will be externally coated in a Fusion Bonded remotely via a control room connected to the SCADA Epoxy (FBE) at a thickness of 500 microns. Mechanical system. An active landowner, occupier and public liaison protection in the form of different types of concrete and program will be implemented, initially based on six high build urethane coatings will be applied over the FBE in monthly visits to occupiers of land along the pipeline route rock areas, directional drills (or road bores) and for weight and annual visits to the local government authorities,exca- loading where buoyancy is a problem. All joints along the vation contractors and public utilities local offices. pipeline will be coated with an approved high build epoxy or polyurethane tape wrap or field applied FBE coating. Pipeline route inspection will occur annually with additional inspection of creeks and washaways after very high An epoxy lining of nominal 50 microns thickness will be rainfall events. applied to the internal pipe to reduce friction from the gas flow. Impressed current cathodic protection will be A One-call network will enable pipeline inquiries and a employed along the total length of the pipeline to protect reporting mechanism. against external and internal corrosion. Installation Parameters Pipeline Control and Overpressure Protection Generally, the pipeline will be buried at a depth of The Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP) for 750-900 mm in accordance with AS 2885.1 Table 4.2.5.3. the pipeline is 15.320 MPag. The pipeline will initially Additional cover will be used where necessary due to carry 45 PJ/annum of gas. Regulation of the line will be perceived threats at crossings or due to land use characteris- achieved through the incorporation of mainline valves tics. Above ground piping shall only be located at the facil- with venting facilities along its length in accordance with ities specified in Table 3.1. The pipe remains underground AS 2885.1 Table 4.2.6.6. These valves will be connected to in all other locations.

Table 3.1 Above ground piping, valves, fittings and equipment

Pipeline Section Piping above ground?

Main line valves Ancillary only (pipe remains below ground) Pigging stations Yes Compressor stations Yes Future off-take sites No, off take is buried with main pipeline Meter stations Yes The total length of the pipeline will be approximately 670 km.

A4-8 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

4 Risk Assessment Methodology • land use segments, (including all rural, residential and industrial zones and it’s usage); Objective • crossing segments, (including easement and utility The risk assessment procedure according to AS 2885.1 has crossings). been adopted where practical for the preliminary assessment. The procedure will be revised and expanded for specific Step 2 – Threat Identification points along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment The threat identification process endeavours to identify all during the design phase. The risk assessment objectives are: threats to the pipeline at all locations (identified in step 1) • to identify the threats to the pipeline and associated along its length. A threat to the pipeline can be assumed to facilities and evaluate the consequence of loss of include any element, which can potentially cause failure of integrity (considering the location of each threat); the pipeline. This includes: • to incorporate design, operational and maintenance • threats due to location; requirements in line with AS 2885.1 to ensure risk • general threats common to the entire system (eg. level associated with threats is sufficiently dealt with corrosion). (incorporating the use of procedures); • to determine whether remaining unmitigated threats Step 3 – Threat Analysis and Mitigation may result in pipeline integrity loss and an associated The threats identified shall be mitigated (where possible) Hazardous event; through the adoption of the requirements of AS 2885.1 as • to determine the frequency and consequence of a presented in Table 4.1. Hazardous event; • to implement necessary measures and/or procedures The application of protection measures sufficient which will reduce the “risk ranking” to low or for adequate mitigation is outlined in Clause 4.2.5. negligible and ensure that a risk level As Low As Mitigation considers threats due to external interference Reasonably Practical (ALARP) is achieved. (deliberate and accidental) as well threats due to unsatisfactory design, construction, materials and operation. The Process Threats due to natural events such as erosion and lightning The risk assessment procedure described in AS 2885.1 are also considered. Section 2 will be adopted in order to fulfil the stated objectives ensuring the identification and mitigation of the SEA Gas have contracted a field consultant to undertake an pipeline threats. extensive survey of the conceptual pipeline route. This survey includes face to face contact/interviewing of all A flow chart showing the steps involved in the process is landowners, councils, local contractors and utilities along presented in Appendix A. the route. As part of this process, each contact has be consulted on potential threats in the area to the pipeline. The staged process can be summarised as follows: The process adopted is ongoing,providing continual liaison ensuring a high public awareness of the proposed pipeline. Step 1 – Location Analysis SEA Gas are encouraging interaction with potentially The location analysis identifies varied land types and uses. affected parties in an effort to identify and mitigate threats It is performed considering the following two elements: in the conceptual and (at the latest) design processes.

Table 4.1 AS 2885. 1 Requirements

Component Section in AS 2885. 1

Material and Component Selection Section 3 Pipeline Design Section 4 Corrosion Mitigation Section 5 Construction Section 6 Inspection and Testing Section 7

A4-9 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 4.2 lists the protection methods adopted to ensure pipeline due to land use and crossings as well as general protection of the SEA Gas pipeline, and consequently the threats to the entire facility are presented. safety of the public and the environment. The Detailed Assessment Step 4 – Failure Analysis and Risk Evaluation The detailed risk assessment shall also incorporate the later When mitigation is insufficient to alleviate a threat, failure parts of the process including failure analysis and risk analysis (ref AS 2885.1 Clause 2.3.4) shall be performed management as discussed earlier. In the presentation of the and combined with the threat analysis to define the condi- detailed assessment, chainage points will be identified and tions in which a hazardous event may occur and its magni- location specific threats referenced and evaluated. The tude (ref AS 2885.1 Clause 2.3.5). detailed assessment will consider location specific population, nature and ecology which may be threatened by The perceived risk is then evaluated as specified in pipeline loss of integrity. AS 2885.1 Section 2.4 for frequency analysis, consequence analysis and risk ranking. The following documents will be consulted for the formation of the detailed risk assessment: Step 5 – Risk management • the pipeline design basis; Once a risk is identified and evaluated, a risk management • pipeline route drawings and alignment sheets; plan will be put into place in compliance with AS 2885.1 • GIS data, geotech surveys and aerial photographs; Section 2.5. • the operating and maintenance plan; • third party requirements – obligations, regulatory The Preliminary Assessment requirements, environmental requirements, etc.; For the purpose of the preliminary risk assessment,only the • landowner reviews and consultant findings; threat identification, analysis and general mitigation • intersecting utilities operation and maintenance (according to the standard external interference Protection) procedures; can be considered due to the dependence on pipeline • contractor procedures; design features and locations which are currently not • meteorological data; defined. The results of the preliminary assessment are • future building and construction approvals; shown in Appendix B of this document. Threats on the • this document.

A4-10 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Table 4.2 Description of Physical and Procedural Pipeline Protection Methods according to AS 2885.1 Clauses 4.2.5.3 and 4.2.5.4 a) Physical Protection Measures Protection Description

Burial The entire pipeline will be buried at depths in accordance with Table 4.2.5.3 of AS 2885.1. Where practical, identified threats shall be mitigated by increased pipeline depth. Design requirements according to or exceeding Clause 4.3.8 will be adopted at all identified threat regions Barrier/Slab Crash barriers and concrete slabs will be adopted where threats are not sufficiently mitigated. Examples of potential areas requiring this type of measure may be a bridge crossing where the pipe is exposed to passing traffic or within a railway easement, where increased depth is not considered sufficient to mitigate the threat of derailment. Exclusion Fences will be adopted where necessary to limit access to the pipeline by unauthorised personnel. Other forms of exclusion include electrical exclusion and rerouting of the pipe to avoid a potentially threatening area or location of the pipe in a region where damage is unlikely, eg. under a bridge rather than on it. Wall thickness Pipe wall thickness will be increased where higher levels of risk to pipeline integrity exist or the consequence of a rupture is considered unacceptable, eg. in a sensitive environment or where intensive population exists. Barrier to penetration Other physical barriers may be used to protect the pipeline such as concrete coating or encasement of the pipe. b) Procedural Measures

Protection Description

Liaison – Contractor Ongoing liaison will be conducted with contractors, which work on the pipeline and unrelated activities, which may compromise the pipeline integrity. Bodies such as councils, telecom/water/power utilities or major agricultural/civil contractors, which may present a threat to the pipeline, will be contacted. Relevant license issuing government authorities will also be informed of the pipeline route. SEA Gas will monitor state and national newspapers for any notices of works/plans that potentially threaten the pipeline. Marking by signs Signs will be posted in accordance with Clause 4.2.5.4.(a)(ii) of AS 2885.1 Marking tape Marking tape will be used for the entire length of the pipeline in accordance with Clause 4.2.5.4.(a)(i) of AS 2885.1 Liaison – Landowner Landowners will be contacted on an ongoing basis before and during the construction of the pipeline. On completion of the construction landowners will be contacted a minimum of once annually. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibit potential pipeline threatening activities such as digging, tree planting, building, etc been conducted by the landowner before consultation with SEA Gas. An automatic change of ownership tracking system has been adopted which tracks change of title ownership, thereby alerting SEA Gas of new landowners along the pipeline easement. One-call The SEA Gas pipeline and facilities will be incorporated in a one call network for efficient processing of public inquiries and enabling an effective pipeline reporting mechanism. Patrolling Quarterly patrolling of the whole pipeline route will be maintained throughout the life of the pipeline. Additional patrolling will be conducted on relevant sections of the pipeline after any extreme climatic event (eg. extreme rainfall etc).

A4-11 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

5 Preliminary Assessment Threat Identification The threat identification considers all threats presented in Tables showing the preliminary risk assessment are shown in tables shown in Appendix B that can be grouped into the Appendix B. The analysis has been performed at a high level following categories: which encapsulates threats identified at the conceptual stage • location specific – considering land use and crossing of the project. As mentioned a more detailed assessment segments following the methodology identified in Section 4 of this • location non specific – considering SEA Gas facilities document will be required in the design stage. in general. The analysis considers known threats and future identified Location Analysis threats. Future unknown threats can not be specifically The location analysis has been performed considering: mitigated during the preliminary risk assessment, as they • land use segments are related to location. • crossing segments. The probability of these unknown threats occurring is A summary of the land use segments considered is given in minimised by the ongoing liaison and various other threat Table 5.1. specific procedural measures as outlined in Section 4 sub- The land location is classified in accordance with the section titled “The Process, Step 3 – Threat Analysis and Classes R1 – T2 specified in AS 2885.1 Clause 4.2.4.4. Mitigation”. A break down of the location specific threats is presented in Table 5.3.

Table 5.1 Land-Use Segments

Land Use Description

Irrigated grazing Irrigation: centre-pivot, flood, fixed spray, travelling irrigator Grazing: predominantly cattle (dairy), some sheep eg. lucerne Dryland grazing Cleared land, improved pasture interspersed with scrub and lone trees Grazing: cattle, sheep and llama Irrigated cropping Irrigation: centre-pivot, flood, fixed spray, travelling irrigator Crops: eg. lucerne, seeds, canola Dryland cropping Crops: eg. seeds, oats, barley, wheat, meadow hay National park – tourism Native scrub and grasses Forestry Blue-gums, pine Light industrial Small business manufacturing, assembly and storage Heavy industrial Heavy manufacturing including large plant and machinery Mining Sand mine identified. Possibility of gold and other mining activities along the route Residential Suburb housing, small towns Vineyards/orchards Winery vineyards, orangeries, olive trees Hobby farms Minor grazing and light machinery operation: horses, cattle, goats, sheep Swampland-marshes Native swamps and boggy pasture Reservoirs Town/city water supplies Sporting grounds Sporting ovals, racecourses Caravan parks Tents,campers and caravans Churches Regular gathering – increased population Utilities Power, gas, water, telecom The land location is classified in accordance with the Classes R1 – T2 specified in AS 2885.1 Clause 4.2.4.4.

A4-12 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Crossings The pipeline will cross the utilities identified in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Crossing Segments

Land Use Description

Main sealed road Dual lane highways to small sealed roads Minor road Public dirt roads Facility access track SEA Gas facility tracks Farm access track Farm lanes and tracks Railway crossing Freight and passenger rail. Used and disused Major waterways Permanent rivers and major seasonal creeks. Major drains Minor waterways Normally dry low flow rivers,natural drainage gutters,man-made drains High voltage power lines (above ground) ≥ 11 kV mounted on tower Low voltage power lines (above ground) < 11 kV mounted on poles Telephone lines (above ground) Mounted on telephone poles High voltage power lines > 11 kV (below ground) ≥ 11 kV installed in trench Low voltage power lines (below ground) < 11 kV installed in trench Telephone lines (below ground) Installed in trench Optic fibre Installed in trench Major water pipelines Installed in trench. Town/city supplies Private water pipelines Farm supplies - stock water,local supplies Gas pipelines Trunk and residential lines Airports/airstrips Council and farm based Sewage/drains In piping installed below ground - town/city based Note – In some locations the pipeline may also run within the easement parallel to the specified utility.

A4-13 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 5.3 Location Specific Threats a) Land Use Segments Threat Comments/Description i) Future development Threats caused by foreseeable changes to the land use and developments in the future New wells, bores and dams Construction or mining in the adjacent to or on the pipeline route (without New irrigation channels consultation with the pipeline operator) provides a significant threat to the New land drains pipeline due to the implementation of heavy equipment which may infringe on New mines the pipeline structure. New silage pits New shed/house New access tracks Installation of new roads,tracks or airstrips which are not planned for in the New airstrips pipeline design phase would result in the cover over the pipeline being reduced and potential safety threats being created due to the unplanned operation of machinery over the pipeline. New fences Installation of a new fence on top of or across the pipeline route may jeopardise the pipeline’s integrity as power boring equipment or post rammers are standard equipment used to install the posts and may physically damage the buried pipe. Redevelopment/change of land use A large range of threats may result due to a change of land use. Generally, individual threats are outlined in this table, including use of heavy equipment to put in irrigation channels or installation of plantations. ii) Maintenance of Existing Services The pipeline will pass through regions which contain services/infrastructure which require continual/intermittent maintenance Dam maintenance Rebuilding of dam walls and sediment/silt removal is common practise. Dam failure Failure modes include wall failure and excessive water seepage under the dam wall. Ploughing Deep ploughing (eg. ripping or blade ploughs) may impinge on the pipeline surface. Vehicle/Plant bogging Bogging of heavy plant on the pipeline may result in pipeline denting and fracture. Drain maintenance Removal of silt from existing drains or channels using graders or three point Channel maintenance linkage blade. Tree planting Tree planting may pose a significant threat to the pipeline. Traditional methods used include deep ripping and post hole diggers (boring) Fence maintenance new post-boring Fence maintenance may pose a similar threat to the pipeline as tree planting. Traditional methods include hole boring and post rammers.

A4-14 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

b) Crossing Segments Threat Comments/Description

Specific Maintenance Threats due to maintenance procedures on facilities located in easements/crossings. Grader Generally used for road crossings. Backhoe – maintenance For digging up of utilities and clearing of drains. access and clearing Bulldozer For major maintenance on facilities. Excavator Front end loader/grader blade For digging up of utilities and clearing of drains. Ballast regulator For the maintenance of ballast levels and position on railways. Proline borer For replacement/installation of power poles. Dredge For the removal of sediment at the bottom of rivers in order to maintain depth for shipping. Emergency Consideration of pipeline failure due to transport accident Car accident On tracks and roads Plane crash At airstrips Train derailment and jacking In railway easements Future upgrade/ongoing operations Consideration of threats foreseen in the future due to upgrading of utilities or ongoing (within easement) operations Bridge construction New bridge construction at locations previously serviced with a ford or upgrading of an existing bridge resulting in new foundations being dug with heavy machinery. Soil compaction Soil compaction due to traffic in crossing easements may place unacceptable stress on the pipe. Road widening Widening of roads as part of a road upgrade is conceivable. Inadequate burial depth to the side of the road may result in pipe infringement during upgrade. Cable plough New optic fibres, piping or cabling may be laid in a crossed easement using this Ripper/Pipe layer equipment. Ditch witch Anchor dragging From boats on creeks and rivers Proline borer – For new power lines crossing the proposed route. Power pole replacement Crossing specific natural events Natural events can pose a threat along the entire length of the pipeline. Events which are especially relevant to crossings are identified in the crossing risk assessment. Lightning Lightning is more likely to strike towers contained in power line or railway easements due to their height. Induced voltage Scenarios which may occur due to presence of power facilities/lines in the Load current crossing easement. Fault currents Soil erosion Soil erosion is likely to occur in any site where large volumes of water are channelled, including rivers and creeks, channels or roadside drains.

A4-15 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 5.4 identifies the general threats on the pipeline and SEA Gas facilities that are not related to location but are relevant along the entire length of the route.

Table 5.4 Non-Specific Threats

Threat Comments/Description

Human interference External interference threat, intentional or accidental. Vandalism Vandalism to the system may be as a result of amateur pranks or professional terrorism. Vehicle impact Vehicles may impact with facilities above ground. Natural events Threats created by acts of nature Bushfire Above ground facilities are susceptible to fire. Lightning Lightning strike of above ground facilities. Excessive rainfall Excessive rainfall may cause pipeline undermining and flooding of facilities. Extreme temperatures The extreme ambient temperatures (air and ground) are not outside design temperatures and therefore do not threaten the pipeline integrity and operation. Erosion Soil erosion is likely to occur in any site where large volumes of water are experienced. Flooding – pipe floatation Flooding of pipeline segments may result in flotation of the pipeline. Sink holes – soil settlement Soil settlement along the pipeline route may result in application of additional stress on the pipe. Induced voltage – General Installation of the pipeline in the vicinity of major electrical utilities may result fault currents in undesirable electrical effects including disruption of the cathodic protection system. Operations Threats due to operation of the pipeline Overpressure The pipeline may be subjected to overpressure (eg. due to compressor operation whilst mainline valves are closed). Incorrect valve operating sequence Threat to pipeline and facility due to incorrect operation of pipeline and facility Operation of control/protective equipment. equipment Operator error e.g. incorrect manual control after equipment bypass Material defects Threats due to material defects Incorrectly identified components Incorrectly tagged material/components may be included in construction. Incorrect specifications Incorrect or incomplete specifications could result in supply of materials and equipment unsatisfactory for the proposed purpose. Understrength pipe Pipe failure due to design strength of pipe being exceeded by higher operational pressures. Manufacturing defect Operational or strength compromises may result. Lack of adequate inspection and testing Inadequate testing or monitoring could result in a threat not being identified. Design defects Threats due to incorrect design processes Incorrect materials Incorrect application analysis, calculation method or error resulting in Incorrect design and engineering a design which is deficient in operational scenarios. analysis Incorrect operating condition definition Safe operation and maintenance not considered

A4-16 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Threat Comments/Description

Construction defects Threats due to incorrect construction processes Damaged pipe Implementation of materials or workmanship inadequate to maintain system Weld defects integrity. Inadequate testing of materials prior to handover Failure to install specified Incorrect installation resulting in unapproved designs being implemented. materials/equipment Failure to adhere to installation procedures Installation not in accordance with design Dangerous chemicals Exposure of equipment or personnel exposure to dangerous chemicals. Maintenance Threats associated with incorrect/inadequate maintenance processes Incorrect pigging operation Potential hazardous area created and employee safety issues. Trench recrowning Trench recrowning shall be required approximately 1 year after installation of the pipeline. This process poses potential threat to the pipeline inherent through the use of heavy machinery. Possible threat may result due to soil compaction by plant or impact with the pipeline with implement or plant. Inadequate procedures Inadequate procedures, or actions in conflict with procedures, may result in an Actions in conflict with procedures action or sequence of actions being performed which may result in dangerous operating/maintenance conditions. Inaccurate testing equipment Incorrect readings obtained by testing and measuring equipment or use of inappropriate measuring equipment will result in unknown operating conditions. Inadequate servicing equipment Inadequate or incomplete servicing equipment will result in unsafe or irregular maintenance of the facilities. Corrosion Pipeline corrosion will result in decreased wall thickness increasing likelihood of fracture External Corrosion Corrosion due to external or operational factors may jeopardise pipeline Solid transport – internal corrosion integrity. Environment related cracking Gas impurities – internal corrosion Bacterial corrosion Other Non categorised threats Explosion Explosions nearby to the pipeline may result in damage or fracturing of the pipeline. Explosion sources include stump removal or mining activities.

Threat Analysis and Mitigation Generally, increased wall thickness and increased depth, The identified threats must be evaluated and mitigated as according to AS 2885.1 Clause 4.3.8, will be implemented required. Tables 5.5 and 5.6 consider the protection at all crossing segments combined with all external inter- methods in place to prevent identified threats from ference procedural measures. becoming a reality. According to AS 2885.1 Clause 4.2.5.1, threats that can not be satisfactorily mitigated by the standard procedures as identified in Section 4.2.5 will undergo failure analysis (see following section).

A4-17 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Table 5.5 Location Specific Threats a) Land Use Segments Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation i) Future development New wells, bores and dams The Pipeline route survey has included individual contact with each landowner along the route. Future developments have been addressed as part of the survey. Where a future site has been identified, the pipeline route has been altered to by-pass the site or compensation paid where rerouting is impractical. No future excavation will be allowed along the final pipeline route where not previously identified during liaisons unless appropriate specific measures are taken to ensure the pipeline is not compromised. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the digging of land on the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison combined with an automated title notification system, (which highlights any change in ownership along the pipeline route), should minimise the threat of any unidentified future dams proposed. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified dam building is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. New irrigation channels Piping will be buried at a greater depth in the region where future irrigation channels are likely as identified by landowner during ongoing liaisons. No future channels that may threaten the pipeline will be allowed where not identified during liaisons unless appropriate specific measures are taken to ensure the pipeline is not compromised. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the digging of land on the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison combined with an automated title notification system, (which highlights any change in ownership along the pipeline route), should minimise the threat of any unidentified channels proposed. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified channel building is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. New land drains Proposed drainage schemes (eg.The Upper South East Integrated Catchment Management Program) at the time of the pipeline design will be noted and increased pipeline depth incorporated to ensure sufficient cover in the drainage region. Standard external interference protection measures shall mitigate any threat to the pipeline due to future drains. The standard burial depth of 750 mm makes puncturing of the pipe highly unlikely. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the digging of land on the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. New mines A mining license must be obtained from the Office of Minerals and Energy Resources (part of PIRSA), or the Office of Minerals and Petroleum Victoria (part of Dept. of Natural Resources and Environment) to enable mining or quarrying activities to commence. Granting of the license involves a long process including obtaining of titles (where easement details are recorded), advertising in statewide papers for native title claims (SEA Gas has a consultant employed for scanning of newspapers for relevant articles/notices) and site inspection of the designated area by department representatives. In addition, GIS checks are made for the site specified. Both departments will be issued with GIS information outlining the actual pipeline route. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison combined should minimise the threat of mining.

A4-18 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

New mines (cont.) From the above it would be deemed that the level of risk from this threat is low. Existing mining licenses will be identified and agreements with the holder negotiated. (A sand mine has been located along the route and arrangements made to close the mine before the pipeline is constructed.) Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified mining activities is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. New silage pits Potential future sites identified by landowner during ongoing liaisons will be avoided by rerouting of the pipeline or compensation (where rerouting is impractical). No future pits that may threaten the pipeline will be allowed where not identified during the liaison process unless appropriate specific measures are taken to ensure the pipeline is not compromised. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the digging of land on the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison should minimise the threat of any unidentified pits proposed. (As pits are generally made via scrapping runs with a front end loader, marking tape is likely to be unearthed before the pipe is compromised). New shed/house Where a future building site has been identified, the pipeline route has been altered to by-pass the site or compensation paid where rerouting is impractical. No future building will be allowed along the final pipeline route where not identified during liaisons unless appropriate specific measures are taken that ensure the pipeline is not compromised. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison when combined with council approval procedures and Landowner-SEA Gas contracts (prohibiting the building on land located in the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas) should minimise the threat of any unidentified buildings proposed. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified building activities is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. New access tracks Piping will be buried at a greater depth in the region where future access tracks are proposed. Standard external interference protection measures shall mitigate any threat to the pipeline due to future tracks. New airstrips Potential future sites identified by landowner during ongoing liaisons will be avoided by rerouting of the pipeline or compensation (where rerouting is impractical). The building of a new airstrip in itself will not pose a threat to the pipeline, however a threat is created due to air traffic and possible plane crash. No future airstrips that may threaten the pipeline will be allowed where not identified during the liaison process unless appropriate specific measures are taken to ensure the pipeline is not compromised. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the building on and earthworks of any land located in the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Patrolling, one-call and landowner liaison should minimise the threat of any unidentified pits proposed. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified airstrips is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment.

A4-19 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

New fences Piping will be buried at a greater depth in the region where future fences are proposed. The depth of fences is traditionally around 600 mm in the regions the pipe travels through however strainer posts may be installed at depths of 1200 mm. As the standard pipe depth ranges between 750-900 mm the strainers pose a significant threat. Standard external interference protection measures shall minimise the threat of any unidentified future fences. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the building on and earthworks of any land located in the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Landowner/contractor liaison and the one-call facility enables cooperation between SEA Gas and the landowner. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified fences is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. Redevelopment/change of land use Landowner and council liaison together with landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts will minimise any threat created by a change of land use. ii) Maintenance of Existing Services Dam maintenance Existing dams along the route have been identified via the pipeline route survey. These dams will be avoided. Dam failure The pipeline route considers the location of all adjacent dams and has been relocated where a threat due to dam failure exists. Ploughing The pipeline is buried a minimum of 750 mm (excluding rock excavation areas where ploughing would not occur). This is deeper than any standard ploughing depth. Deep ripping drainage is not practised in the regions which the pipeline passes through. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified deep ploughing is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. If deep ripping or blade ploughing regions are determined during detailed assessment, ploughing depth should be determined on a location specific basis at this point. Vehicle/Plant bogging As the pipeline is 750 mm minimum deep it is unlikely that plant would impact the pipe even in extreme cases. Typical heavy equipment plant which may be bogged generally rubber tyred equipment such as tractors, trucks, irrigators, etc. Steel tracked equipment is unlikely to bog and will be controlled by either contractor or landowner that are informed of the pipeline presence. Standard external interference protection measures shall sufficiently mitigate the threat of plant bogging. Drain maintenance Removal of silt from existing drains or channels is unlikely to result in threat to the pipeline. The pipe will be buried at an increased depth when it passes under Channel maintenance existing drains resulting in sufficient cover to avoid damage due to grader or three point linkage blade. Standard external interference protection measures shall sufficiently mitigate the threat of drain maintenance. Tree planting Trees are traditionally planted at depths less than 750 mm, therefore this threat is unlikely to infringe on the pipe. Any uncontrolled planting on the pipeline will be spotted during patrolling of the route. The only exception to this may be the planting of full-grown trees. A development of this type is highly unlikely considering the land use segments along the pipeline route. Ongoing landowner

A4-20 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Tree planting (cont.) consultation shall mitigate this threat when combined with other procedural protection measures. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the planting of trees on any land located in the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. If full grown trees are planted they shall be excluded from the pipeline area. Fence maintenance new post-boring No practical physical protection method exists to mitigate this threat. Procedural protection measures are relied upon to prevent pipeline penetration due to external interference. As signage is placed on each fence crossing at the crossing site it is reasonable to assume this threat is unlikely to occur. The location of strainer posts will be considered when surveying the pipeline route. Continual liaison with the landowner should reduce the risk due to this threat. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. b) Crossing Segments Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation Specific Maintenance Grader Increased depth in accordance with AS 2885.1 Clause 4.3.8.7 combined with Backhoe – maintenance access standard external interference protection measures shall sufficiently mitigate this and clearing threat. Bulldozer Excavator Front end loader/grader blade Ballast regulator Proline borer - Exclusion methods such as fencing will be adopted when the threat is not Power pole replacement sufficiently mitigated by standard external interference protection measures. Theoretically this threat is not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 if physical protection is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. This will be assessed on a case by case basis in the detailed assessment. Dredge Dredging practices for river crossings will be investigated. Where dredging is adopted or is foreseeable in the future, this threat will be mitigated through the increased depth. Directional drilling methods will be adopted at major rivers. Emergency Car accident Increased depth in accordance with AS 2885.1 Clause 4.3.8.7 shall sufficiently mitigate this threat. Plane crash Generally the route of the pipeline will exclude airstrips wherever practical. Where the pipeline does cross an airstrip the standard physical external interference protection measures will be implemented in the vicinity of the strip. These measures combined with standard procedural external interference protection measures adopted for the entire pipeline shall sufficiently mitigate this threat. Train derailment and jacking Installation of the pipeline at railway crossings shall be in accordance with AS 2885.1 Clause 4.3.8.7. Additional barriers/slabs will be implemented in the vicinity of the track to protect against infringement during a derailment. These measures combined with standard external interference protection measures adopted for the entire pipeline shall sufficiently mitigate this threat.

A4-21 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Future upgrade/ongoing operations (within easement) Bridge construction No practical physical protection method exists to mitigate this threat. However pipeline depth will assessed at road and river crossings in accordance with AS 2885.1. Pipeline route selected was checked with relevant authorities and landowners to avoid any current proposals for new bridges. This combined with ongoing landowner and contractor liaison should eliminate this threat. Landowner-SEA Gas easement contracts prohibits the building on and earthworks of any land located in the pipeline easement without prior contact and approval by SEA Gas. Nevertheless, theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against unidentified bridges is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. Soil compaction This scenario shall be mitigated during design of the crossing. Road widening This scenario shall be mitigated during design of each road crossing to allow for future widening. Increased pipeline depth will span the entire width of a road easement. Cable plough Current users of the easements will be informed of the existence and location Ripper/Pipe layer of the pipeline within the easement. New easements will need to allow for the Ditch witch existence of the pipeline in their installation procedures. Theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as physical protection against this equipment is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. Anchor dragging Increased depth is adopted at all creek and river crossings to accommodate anchor dragging and river realignment. Directional drilling methods will be adopted at major rivers. Proline borer – Power pole replacement Power utilities will be informed of the presence and location of the pipeline within a power line easement together with all other users of each easement. The pipeline route will be chosen to avoid placement directly under power lines (when running within an easement due to safety hazards during installation and maintenance as well as electrical effects due to magnetic fields on the pipeline. Where the pipeline crosses an easement with power lines installed, consideration will be given to power pole replacement and an assessment made whether additional barriers to penetration are required at each specific site. Theoretically this threat is still not mitigated according to Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1 as where physical protection against this equipment is not implemented. Therefore location specific failure analysis should be conducted along the pipeline in the detailed risk assessment. Crossing specific natural events Lightning Power line design will cater for the safety of the power line but their protection Induced voltage system may increase the threat to the nearby pipeline. Other hazards to the Load current pipeline (as listed) may occur due to the presence of an electrical source Fault currents adjacent to the pipeline. Installation of the pipeline within power/railway easements requires specific attention and additional design and procedural protection measures to ensure safety and threat mitigation to the pipeline. Appendix B of AS 2885.1 will be adopted as a basis for design of the pipeline together with accepted practices for pipeline design within the vicinity of electrical hazards.

A4-22 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Soil erosion Crossings on railways and roads will be design in accordance with Figure 4.3.8.7 (a and b) and Clause 4.3.8.7 of AS 2885.1 which includes a minimum depth under drains incorporated in the easement. Increased depth is adopted at all creek and river crossings to accommodate river realignment/erosion. Directional drilling methods will be adopted at major rivers. Regular patrolling of the pipeline will identify any threat due to unexpected erosion rates.

Table 5.6 Non-Specific Threats

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Human interference Vandalism The entire length of the pipeline is buried underground out of sight and is not a likely target for an amateur prank. Above ground facilities will be protected from intrusion via high chain fencing with barb wire strung along the top of poles. Gates to facilities will be locked and accessibility restricted to authorised personnel. Remote notification of access through any gate will be indicated via signal sent to the control room. Terrorist activities will not be allowed for in the design of the pipeline. This threat is considered extremely low in Australia and along the proposed route and can be considered acceptable. Vehicle impact Designated roads will be maintained within facility boundaries. Concrete bollards will be installed where necessary to protect equipment from damage due to vehicles. Only authorised vehicles will be allowed within the facility compounds Natural events Bushfire The entire length of the pipeline is buried underground and is not susceptible to fire. Above ground facilities will be located in cleared areas away from trees. Equipment will be installed on hardstand and fusible loops and fire alarms employed to notify the control room of fire. Facilities will be fitted with fire fighting equipment as required by relevant regulations. Lightning The entire length of the pipeline is buried underground resulting in the threat due to lightning being minimal unless located near to high (metallic) structures. Isolation gaskets are incorporated along the length of the pipeline ensuring that a lightning strike is not transferred along the pipeline to installed facilities. Insulation will be fitted with surge units to ensure its integrity. SEA Gas facilities will be fitted with lightning protection systems where necessary. Excessive rainfall Drainage systems for all SEA Gas facilities will be designed to withstand high intensity or prolonged rainfall events in accordance with extreme rainfall figures measured by the Bureau of Meteorology. The pipeline will be patrolled after any extreme rainfall event for evidence of washouts or soil settlement. The pipeline will have anti-flotation protection such as concrete coating in susceptible swamp/wet areas. Extreme temperatures The SEA Gas facilities employ material and equipment specifications, which are capable of withstanding the maximum and minimum ambient temperatures (air and ground) recorded along the route. Erosion See Table 5.3 b) for erosion at crossing segments. General soil erosion along the length of the pipeline in general land use segments will be detected by patrolling of the pipeline. Remote events such as flash flooding could cause pipeline unearthing. Each crossing will be reviewed in the detailed design phase and additional measures provided or deemed necessary by prevalent pipe reroute analysis. A designed drainage network prevents erosion of facility sites.

A4-23 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Flooding - pipe floatation Swampy and wet areas will be identified in the land survey along the pipeline route. These areas will be avoided where possible or suitable anti-flotation methods employed. Sink holes - soil settlement This threat will be mitigated through realignment of the pipeline or specialised design in swamp and unstable soil areas however unforeseen settlement may occur in other sections of the pipeline due to excessive rainfall. The pipeline will be designed to and comply with AS 2885.1 which incorporates safety factors which will accommodate this event. Patrolling of the pipeline occurs immediately after any extreme climatic event which will result in settlement areas being quickly identified. Induced voltage - General The pipeline route will avoid electrical utilities wherever possible. When fault currents unachievable this threat will be mitigated by design. Operations Overpressure The pipeline and facility design pressure will exceed the operational pressure in accordance with AS 2885.1 requirements. The pipeline will be designed to be protected from over pressurisation. High-pressure scenarios will be analysed during the pipeline HAZOP. Incorrect valve operating sequence The pipeline/facilities will be protected by a number of safety systems to Operation of control/ prevent hazardous situations occurring due to operations (including valve protective equipment sequencing). Fault generated electrical alarm will be implemented together with mechanical systems such as check valves to preserve the pipeline and prevent reverse/high/low or zero flow. Instrumentation located at facilities will inform the control centre of unusual operation. The mainline valves along the length of the line can be remotely controlled and an override mechanism is installed on each valve to allow manual intervention. Positioner located on the mainline valves will indicate satisfactory operation and routine testing of all equipment will be implemented. Operator error e.g. incorrect manual Operation procedures will be put in place to ensure safe working practices and control after equipment bypass avoid possible threat to the pipeline and facilities. Safeguard mechanisms will be implemented to prevent unsafe conditions as a result of operator error and incorrect procedures. Operator error will be considered in the HAZOP review. All operator will be trained and performance routinely reviewed. Material defects Incorrectly identified components This threat can never be completely mitigated practically. Materials and equipment will be sourced from reputable suppliers with accreditation and testing certificates where deemed necessary by the Engineer. A supplier audit program will be set up to ensure supply in accordance with specifications and sampling of materials will be taken and tested as deemed necessary by the quality plan. All materials will be recorded including test results and inspection reports as specified in AS 2885.1 Clause 3.7. Identification of components will be in accordance with Clause 3.1.8 as a minimum Incorrect specifications Specifications will be prepared by experienced engineers. All engineering specifications will incorporate checking and approval by independent reviewers in accordance with the Brown & Root quality system. Understrength pipe Pipeline design will be in accordance with AS 2885.1 Section 4, incorporating safety factors as required. Design calculations will be checked and approved in accordance with the Brown & Root quality system. Manufacturing defect All critical equipment will be supplied with quality certificates and where necessary testing certificates to guarantee quality and operation in accordance with the engineering specification. Ongoing testing and monitoring of the systems should identify untraced defects once implemented. Alarms and shutdown procedures will be implemented to prevent a hazardous situation from occurring.

A4-24 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Lack of adequate inspection and testing A testing and inspection program will be developed as part of the documentation supporting the pipeline installation. Regular testing and inspection will be implemented as part of the operation and maintenance of the pipeline. Design defects Incorrect materials Brown & Root has developed a quality management system to ensure Incorrect design and engineering recording, checking and accounting of the engineering process. Brown & Root analysis has considerable experience in the design of gas pipelines and associated Incorrect operating condition facilities. All engineering work shall be conducted by appropriately qualified definition personnel. Safe operation and maintenance not considered Construction defects Damaged pipe Personnel employed for the construction of the pipeline will have appropriate Weld defects qualifications and follow specified procedures on installation and construction. Inadequate testing of materials prior Inspection of all work and materials will be conducted before, during and after to handover construction in accordance with the quality management plan. Testing of materials and workmanship will be conducted on a spot check or blanket basis depending on the criticality of the work. NDT techniques will be adopted during and after construction including x-raying of all welds. Inspection of components will be in accordance with AS 2885.1 Section 6.4, whilst testing and inspection of construction will be in accordance with Section 7. Failure to install specified Construction personnel will have appropriate qualifications and experience in materials/equipment pipeline construction. Inspectors will be employed during construction to Failure to adhere to installation ensure correct work and materials is adopted. A punch list will be developed procedures which must be eliminated before work is approved. Construction and Installation not in accordance installation will comply with AS 2885.1 Section 6 with design Dangerous chemicals All potentially dangerous chemicals will be appropriately stored. Storage method will be dependent on the chemical nature. Procedures will be put in place for the handling of chemicals. All chemicals will be classed according to the Hazchem classification scheme and MSDS will be held on site for all chemicals. Maintenance Incorrect pigging operation This activity will be conducted routinely by qualified personnel in accordance with written procedures. Adopted procedures will be in line with accepted procedures for existing pipelines and will be prepared in consultation with pig suppliers. Pigging is classified as an abnormal process and appropriate care will be taken to avoid hazardous situations arising. Trench recrowning Documentation will be put in place directing refill contractors of the threat posed by operation of recrowning equipment and appropriate safety procedures to be adhered to. The contractor will also be briefed of the risks and asked to submit a work procedure for the job. Where possible, light plant will be employed. Inadequate procedures Procedures will be installed for the pipeline operation and maintenance in line with existing pipelines and facilities. These procedures will be prepared and reviewed by experts in the pipeline industry and will follow approval procedures as outlined in the quality management plan. Actions in conflict with procedures This threat will be minimised by the employment of appropriate qualified personnel to conduct operations and maintenance. Maintenance of standards will be carried out by routine training of staff. Design of the facilities will incorporate safeguards against operator error to ensure that hazardous situations are prevented or as a minimum, retained and appropriate alarms sent to the control centre. The pipeline and facilities HAZOP will also consider incorrect operations and consequences, which will be mitigated where possible by design changes.

A4-25 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Threat Threat Analysis and Mitigation

Inaccurate testing equipment Generally the facility is safeguarded against dangerous situations due to the inherent design (eg. pressure regulation). However the safeguards are in place for emergency situations and should not be considered for normal operational conditions. Instrumentation and testing equipment will be calibrated in accordance with relevant standards and supplier recommendations. Critical systems will be designed with redundancy in place. Inadequate servicing equipment The operation and maintenance plan will identify all equipment required for maintenance and operation. HAZOP of the facilities and pipeline will consider maintenance and operability of the plant. Servicing equipment list will be based on existing pipelines and relevant facilities and operator/designer experience. Corrosion

External corrosion The potential internal pipeline corrosion is low due to very low CO2,H2S and Solid transport - internal corrosion other acidic compound levels. The gas will be a dry sales quality gas and Environment related cracking conditions related to environmental cracking will be evaluated and alleviated Gas impurities - internal corrosion along the length of the pipeline. An epoxy coating will be employed internally Bacterial corrosion within the pipeline to decrease friction and reduce corrosion potential. The pipeline will be protected by two complementary external corrosion systems an impressed current system and a FBE coating (see Section 3 “Corrosion Management and Mechanical Protection” of this document). Corrosion systems will monitored and tested to ensure effective operation. Corrosion protection systems will be designed in accordance with AS 2885.1 Section 5 and Appendices G, H and I. Other Explosion Explosions in the region of the pipeline could pose a serious threat to its integrity. Removal of stumps using explosives is rare and requires a permit. Standard external interference protection measures shall sufficiently mitigate this threat. Blasting due to mining activities will be conducted by qualified personnel in a controlled manner. The presence of mines along the route shall be identified by the land survey. Agreements and procedures will be put in place if mining operations can potentially compromise the pipeline. The pipeline route selected currently considers all operational mines.

Failure Analysis and Risk Evaluation Threat mitigation and Failure analysis and Risk evaluation will be conducted for evaluation resulted in the following threats being unsatisfac- the identified unmitigated threats. Due to the location torily mitigated by standard external interference protec- specific nature of these threats and the accompanying tion procedures,based on Clause 4.2.5.1 of AS 2885.1: analysis, this stage of the risk assessment can only be conducted in the detailed risk assessment in the next phase Land Use Segments: of the project. • new wells, bore and dam construction • new irrigation channel construction The following location specific documents will be prepared • new mining activities in the detailed risk assessment: • new silage pits construction • listing of the equipment used (specific to the • new shed/house construction unmitigated threats) which may cause leakage or • new airstrips construction full-scale rupture of the pipeline should be • new fences construction determined and documented; • ploughing (deep) • a detailed failure analysis based on the pipeline design • fence maintenance features outlined in Section 2.3.4 of AS 2885.1;

Crossing Segments: A hazardous event schedule, based on the combination of • proline borer power pole replacement the threat analysis, failure analysis and equipment list will • bridge construction then be produced to identify risks to the pipeline. • cable plough, ripper/pipe layer, ditch witch.

A4-26 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

For each hazardous event, a risk evaluation to determine type and seriousness of identified risks according to AS 2885.1 Section 2.4 will be conducted including: • frequency analysis • consequence analysis • risk ranking.

Risk Management All identified risks will be managed according to AS 2885.1 Section 2.5. The aim of the risk management is to design out or to remove the threat if the risk assessment does not produce an ALARP outcome. This work will be completed in the next phase during the detailed risk assessment. The procedure will follow the methodology shown in the process flow chart in AppendixA.

A4-27 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A4-28 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Appendix A

AS 2885.1 Risk Assessment Process

A4-29 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A4-30 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Figure A1 The AS2885.1 Risk Assessment Process

A4-31 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A4-32 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Appendix B

Preliminary Risk Assessment

A4-33 Appendix IV SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A4-34 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Name: SEA Gas pipeline (Minerva Plant to Gepps Cross/Pelican Point Off-take Station) Protocol for this sheet: Services related to SEAgas equipment in this sheet Standard: AS 2885.1-1997. Pipeline design, construction, testing and protection will be in accordance with this standard Date: 26-Jul-01 Revision: 0 (22-Aug-01) THREATS

GENERAL ANALYSIS - SEA Gas facilities Human interference Vandalism Vehicle impact Natural events Bushfire Lightning Excessive Rainfall Extreme Temperatures Erosion Flooding - pipe floatation Sink holes - soil settlement Induced Voltage - General Fault Currents - General Operations Overpressure Incorrect valve operating sequence Incorrect operation of control/protective equipment Operator error e.g. incorrect manual control after equipment bypass Material defects Incorrectly identified components Incorrect specifications Understrength pipe Manufacturing defects Lack of adequate inspection and testing Design Defects Incorrect materials Incorrect design and engineering analysis Incorrect operating condition definition Safe operation and maintenance not considered Construction defects Damaged pipe Weld defects Inadequate testing of materials prior to handover Failure to install specified materials/equipment Failure to adhere installation procedures Installation not in accordance with design Dangerous chemicals Maintenance Incorrect pigging operation Trench recrowning Inadequate procedures Actions in conflict with procedures Inaccurate testing equipment Inadequate servicing equipment Corrosion External Corrosion Solid transport - internal corrosion Environment related cracking Gas impurities - internal corrosion Bacterial corrosion Other Explosion Comments Location Segment Responsibility line No. Classification 1 Buried piping SEA Gas R1,R2,T1 ' ''''''' ''' ' ''''' ''' ' '' ' ' '' ''''' ''''' 'General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.3.9.1 2 Above ground piping SEA Gas R1,R2,T1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.3.9.1 3 Pig launcher sites SEA Gas R1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.3.9.2 4 Main line valve sites SEA Gas R1,R2,T1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.3.9.3 5 Compressor station site SEA Gas R1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.4 6 Meter station site SEA Gas T1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.4 7 Future offtake site SEA Gas T1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- 4.3.9.5 8 cathodic protection elements SEA Gas R1,R2,T1 '' ''''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' General ref. AS 2885.1- sect 5 9 Protection 10 Physical Measures Standard Clause 11 Burial General AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3 (a)(i), '' ''''' ' ' Burial protection is relevant for the buried pipeline only 12 Barrier / Slab AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(iii) ' Separation via fencing, isolation via design (e.g electrical or pressure relief) or isolation via location (pipeline rerouting 13 Exclusion AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(ii) '''' '''' ' '' ''''around hazard) 14 Wall Thickness (increased) AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i), Appendix E4 '' ' ' ''Wall thickness is increased for all above ground piping 15 Barrier to Penetration AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(ii), Appendix E4 '' ' '' 16 Procedural Measures 17 Liaison-Contractor AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 18 Marking by Signs AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(ii), fig 4.2.4.5 '' 19 Marking Tape AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(i) ' ' 20 Liaison-Landowner AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) '' '' ' ' ' ' ' ' 21 One-Call AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(iii) ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' 22 Patrolling AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i) '''''''''' ''' ' '' ' ' ' ''''' ' 23 Other 24 Inspection AS 2885.1 4.2.5.5 '' ''''' '''' ''' ' ' ''' ' ' ' '' ' ''' '''''' ''''' ' 25 Design - electrical AS 2885.1 2, Appendix B ''' ''' 26 Design - stress/pressure AS 2885.1 2, 4, Appendix C, D, F, J '''' ''' ' '' ' 27 Design - equipment/material selection AS 2885.1 2, 3,4, Appendix G, H, I ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 28 Design - drainage/soils AS 2885.1 All '''' ' ''' 29 Design - control/alarm systems AS 2885.1 All '' '' ' ' ' ' ' ' 30 HAZOP AS 2885.1 2 '' '''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 31 Quality Management Plan AS 2885.1 2 '' ''''' ''' ' '' ' ' '' ' ' '' ''''' 32 Testing and commissioning AS 2885.1 7 '' ' ' ' ''' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 33 Risk Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B) Y Y YYYYY YYYY YYY Y YYYYY YYY Y YY Y Y YYY YYYYYY YYYYY Y Failure analysis must be conducted if requirements of 34 Failure Analysis: loss of Integrity? Yes/No AS 2885.1 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B), 2.3.4 Table 4.2.5.2 (B) can not be satisfied

If failure analysis reveals no failure mode then risk is 35 Risk Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 2.3.4 mitigated, otherwise Hazardous Event must be analysed 36 Hazardous Event AS 2885.1 2.3.5, 2.4 37 FREQUENCY ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.2 38 Frequent AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 39 Occasional AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 40 Unlikely AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 41 Remote AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 42 Improbable AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 43 Hypothetical AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 44 CONSEQUENCE ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.3 45 Catastrophic AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 46 Major AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 47 Severre AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 48 Minor AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 49 RESULTING RISK CLASS AS 2885.1 2.4.4 50 High AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 51 Intermediate AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 52 Low AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 53 Negligible AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) Corrective action must be taken if the risk remains significant. Design Stage - ref 2.5.2, Operating Stage - ref 54 Management Plan AS 2885.1 2.5 2.5.3 55 ALARP 56 COMMENTS

Minimum No. of Protection Measures taken from Table 4.2.5.2 (B) - AS 2885.1-1997 Classification of location R2 R1 T1 T2 Physical measure required (Note 1 & 2) 1 1 2 2 Procedural measures required (Note 3) 2 2 2 2

Note 1 - The no. of physical measures in locations Class T1 & T2 may be reduced to 1 where the designed physical measure is determined to provide absolute protection from the design event in the location Note 2 - Physical measures for protection against high powered boring equipmenty shall not be considered absolute Note 3 - Procedural measures for protection class R1 may be reduced to 1 where there are no activities in the vicinity of the pipeline which could represent a hazard to the pipeline

A4-35 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Name: SEA Gas pipeline (Minerva Plant to Gepps Cross/Pelican Point Off-take Station) Protocol for this sheet: Segments will be determined by road, rail, or water crossing Services in road or rail easment included here Services NOT in road, rail or water easment in "Land Use Segments" Fences included in "Land Use Segments" Services related to SEAgas equipment in "SEAgas facilities" Standard: AS 2885.1-1997. Pipeline design, construction, testing and protection will be in accordance with this standard Date: 26-Jul-01 Revision: 0 (22 Aug 01) THREATS

LOCATION ANALYSIS - Crossings/Easements/Utilities Specific Maintenance Grader Backhoe - maintenance access & clearing Bulldoser Excavator Front end loader/grader blade Ballast regulator Proline Borer Dredge Emergency Car accident Plain crash Train derailment & jacking Future upgrade/ongoing operations (within easement) bridge construction Soil compaction Road widening Cable plough Ripper/Pipe layer Ditch witch Anchor dragging Proline Borer - Power Pole Replacement Crossing specific natural events Lightning Induced Voltage Load Current Fault Currents Soil Erosion Comments line No. Segment Responsibility Location Classification 1 Main Sealed Road State gov/Local council All ' ' ' ''' ' 2 Minor Road Local council All ' ' ' ''' ' 3 Facility access track SEAgas All ' ' ' ''' ' 4 Farm access track Farmer All ' '' ' ' ''' ' 5 Railway crossing Railway All ' '' ' ' ' ' ''''' 6 Major waterways Local council All '' ' ' ' ' 7 Minor waterways Local council All '''' ' ' ' ' 8High voltage power lines (above ground) Electricity supplier All ' ' '''' 9 Low voltage power lines (above ground) Electricity supplier All ' ' '''' 10 Telephone lines (above ground) Telecom All ' '' 11 High voltage power lines (below ground) Electricity supplier All ' ' ' ' ' 12 Low voltage power lines (below ground) Electricity supplier All ' ' ''' 13 Telephone lines (below ground) Telecom All ' ' 14 Optic fibre Telecom All ' '' 15 Major water pipelines Various All ' 16 Private water pipelines Farmer/landowner All '' '' 17 Gas pipelines Various All ' 18 Airports/airstrips Council/landowner R2 '' ' ' 19 Sewage/drains Council/farmer All '''' ' 20 Protection 21 Physical Measures Standard Clause 22 Burial General AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3 (a)(i), 4.2.5.3(a)(i), 4.3.8.7, fig 4.3.8.7(b), 23 Burial Roads AS 2885.1 4.3.6.5(ii) 4.2.5.3(a)(i), 4.3.8.7, fig 4.3.8.7(a), '''''''' '' ' ''' ' ''' ' ' 24 Burial Railway Crossings AS 2885.1 4.3.6.5(ii) 25 AS 4799 26 Burial Waterway AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(i), 4.3.8.4, 4.3.8.5 27 Barrier / Slab AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(iii) 28 Exclusion AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(ii) ' ' ''' 29 Wall Thickness (increased) AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i), Appendix E4 '' 30 Barrier to Penetration AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(ii), Appendix E4 ' 31 Procedural Measures 32 Liaison-Contractor AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) ' ' '' ''' ' ' '' '' ' ' 33 Marking by Signs AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(ii), fig 4.2.4.5 ' ' '' ' ''' ' ' ''''' ' 34 Marking Tape AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(i) ' ' '' ' ''' ' ' '''' ' ' 35 Liaison-Landowner AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) ' '' ' ''' '' ' ' 36 One-Call AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(iii) ' ' '' ' ''' ''''''' ' ' 37 Patrolling AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i) ' ' '' ' ''' ' ' ''''''' ' ' ' 38 Other 39 Inspection AS 2885.1 4.2.5.5 ' ' '' ' '' ' ' '''' ' ' 40 Design - Soils AS 2885.1 All ''' ' 41 Design - Electrical AS 2885.1 Appendix B ' ''' 42 Design - Emergency '' ' 43 Risk Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B) Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y N Y Y N N N Y Y YYYYY Failure analysis must be conducted if requirements of Table 4.2.5.2 (B) can 44 Failure Analysis: loss of Integrity? Yes/No AS 2885.1 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B), 2.3.4 not be satisfied (clause 4.2.5.1) If failure analysis reveals no failure mode then risk is mitigated, otherwise Hazardous Event must be analysed 45 Risk Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 2.3.4 46 Hazardous Event AS 2885.1 2.3.5, 2.4 47 FREQUENCY ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.2 48 Frequent AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 49 Occasional AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 50 Unlikely AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 51 Remote AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 52 Improbable AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 53 Hypothetical AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 54 CONSEQUENCE ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.3 55 Catastrophic AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 56 Major AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 57 Severre AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 58 Minor AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 59 RESULTING RISK CLASS AS 2885.1 2.4.4 60 High AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 61 Intermediate AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 62 Low AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 63 Negligible AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) Corrective action must be taken if the risk remains significant. Design Stage - ref 2.5.2, Operating Stage - ref 2.5.3 64 Management Plan AS 2885.1 2.5 65 ALARP 66 COMMENTS

A4-37 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix IV

Name: SEA Gas pipeline (Minerva Plant to Gepps Cross/Pelican Point Off-take Station) Protocol for this sheet: Fence crossings included in this sheet Services contained in crossings or easements included in "Crossing segments" Services related to SEAgas equipment in "SEAgas facilities" Standard: AS 2885.1-1997. Pipeline design, construction, testing and protection will be in accordance with this standard Date: 26-Jul-01 Revision: 0 (22-Aug-01) THREATS

LOCATION ANALYSIS - Land Use Future development New wells/bores New dams New irrigation channels Land drains New Mines New Silage pits New shed / house New access tracks New airstrips New fences Redevelopment / change of land use Maintenance of Existing Services Dam maintenance Dam Failure Ploughing Vehicle/Plant bogging Drains Maintenance Channels Maintenance Tree Planting Fence Maintenance, new post-boring Comments Location Segment Responsibility line No. Classification 1 irrigated grazing Landowner R1 '''''''' ' ' ''' ''' ' 2 dryland grazing Landowner R1 '' '''''' ' ''' ' ' 3 irrigated cropping Landowner R1 '''''''' ' ' ''' '''' ' 4 dryland cropping Landowner R1 ''''''' ' ' '''' ' 5 national park - tourism State Government R1 '' '' '''' ' '' '''' ' 6 forestry Landowner R1 '' '' '''' ' ''' '''' ' 7 light industrial Landowner T1 ''''' '' 8 heavy industrial Landowner T1 ''''' '' 9 mining Landowner R1 ''''''' ''' ' 10 residential Landowner T1 ' ' '' '' 11 vineyards/orchards Landowner R1/R2 ''''' '' ' ' ''' '''' ' 12 hobby farms Landowner R2 '' '' '' ' ' ''' '''' ' 13 swampland-marshes Landowner R1 '' '' ' ' ' '''' ' 14 reservoirs SA / Vic water R1 '''' 15 sporting grounds Council T1 '' '' ' ' '' ' ' 16 caravan parks Landowner T1 '' '' ' ' '' ' ' ' 17 churches Church T1 '''' '' 18 utilities Electricity Supplier T1 ''''''' 19 Protection 20 Physical Measures Standard Clause Location of the pipeline through an ' '''''' ' existing fence will consider additional 21 Burial General AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3 (a)(i), ' ' depth and post locations 22 Barrier / Slab AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(iii) For Future developmet - where exlcusion ' isnt possible, appropriate protection 23 Exclusion AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(a)(ii) ''''''' ' ' '' measures should be taken 24 Wall Thickness (increased) AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i), Appendix E4 25 Barrier to Penetration AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(ii), Appendix E4 26 Procedural Measures 27 Liaison-Contractor AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) '''''''''' ' ' '''' ' 28 Marking by Signs AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(ii), fig 4.2.4.5 '''''''''' ' ' ''' ' 29 Marking Tape AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(a)(i) '''''''''' ' ' ''' ' 30 Liaison-Landowner AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(ii) '''''' ''' ' ' ' '''' ' 31 One-Call AS 2885.1 4.2.5.4(b)(iii) '''''''''' ' ' ' ''' ' 32 Patrolling AS 2885.1 4.2.5.3(b)(i) '''''''''' ' ''' ' ''' ' 33 Other 34 Inspection AS 2885.1 4.2.5.5 ''' '' ''' ' '''' ' 35 Design - Specific AS 2885.1 All '' '' 36 Approval '''''

Unforeseen developments which are not identified through ongoing landowner discussions (e.g. new fences) are not 37 Threat Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B) N N N Y N N N Y N N Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y N allowed for in this asssessment Failure analysis must be conducted if 4.2.5.1, Table 4.2.5.2 (B), requirements of Table 4.2.5.2 (B) can not 38 Failure Analysis: loss of Integrity? Yes/No AS 2885.1 2.3.4 be satisfied If failure analysis reveals no failure mode then risk is mitigated, otherwise 39 Risk Mitigation Acceptable? Yes/No AS 2885.1 2.3.4 Hazardous Event must be analysed 40 Hazardous Event AS 2885.1 2.3.5, 2.4 41 FREQUENCY ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.2 42 Frequent AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 43 Occasional AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 44 Unlikely AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 45 Remote AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 46 Improbable AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 47 Hypothetical AS 2885.1 Table 2.4.2 48 CONSEQUENCE ANALYSIS AS 2885.1 2.4.3 49 Catastrophic AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 50 Major AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 51 Severre AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 52 Minor AS 2885.1 2.4.3, Table 2.4.4(B) 53 RESULTING RISK CLASS AS 2885.1 2.4.4 54 High AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 55 Intermediate AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 56 Low AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) 57 Negligible AS 2885.1 2.4.4, Table 2.4.4(A) Corrective action must be taken if the risk remains significant. Design Stage - ref 58 Management Plan AS 2885.1 2.5 2.5.2, Operating Stage - ref 2.5.3 59 ALARP 60 COMMENTS

A4-39 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix V

Appendix V

Stakeholder Consultation

A5-1 Appendix V SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

A5-2 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Appendix V

Stakeholder Consultation

The following lists those stakeholders consulted to date • Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority during the planning and assessment phases of the SEA Gas • VicRoads Project. Victorian Shire Councils Commonwealth • Moyne Shire Council Federal Ministers • Corangamite Shire Council • Minister for Environment and Heritage – Senator The • Glenelg Shire Council Hon R Hill • Southern Grampians Shire Council • Minister for Industry, Science and Resources – Senator • West Wimmera Shire Council The Hon N Minchin Victorian Non-Government Organisations Federal Shadow Ministers • National Threatened Species Network • Shadow Minister for Environment and Heritage – The • South-west Environmental Action Group Hon N Bolkus • Shadow Minister for Industry, Science and Resources – Victorian National and Regional Newspapers The Hon M Evans • The Australian • Herald Sun Victoria • The Melbourne Age Ministers Victoria State Government • Warrnambool Standard • Premier – The Hon S Bracks MP • Western Weekly • Minister for Environment and Conservation (DNRE) – • Casterton News The Hon S Garbutt • Edenhope West Wimmera Advocate • Minister for Energy and Resources (DNRE) – The • Hamilton Spectator Hon C Broad MLC • Portland Observer • Minister for State and Regional Development – The Hon J Brumby MP Victorian Aboriginal Organisations • Gournditch-Mara Native Title Claim (combined appli- Shadow Ministers Victoria State Government cation Gournditch-Mara #1-6) • Shadow Minister for Conservation and Environment • Wotjobaluk People Native Title Claim • Shadow Minister for Natural Resources and Energy and • Wotjobaluk Native Title Claim (combined application Ports Wotjobaluk and others #2-4) • Framlingham Aboriginal Trust Victorian State Government Authorities: Melbourne • Kirrae Whurrong Native Title Group • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria • Kerrup Jmara Elders Aboriginal Corporation • Department State and Regional Development • Gournditch-Mara Native Title Claim • Department of Infrastructure – Impact Assessment • DNRE Minerals and Petroleum Victoria South Australian • DNRE Crown Lands Management Officer: South West Ministers SA State Government Region • Premier – The Hon John Olsen MP • DNRE Flora and Fauna Coordinator • Minister for Industry and Resources, and Regional • Environment Protection Agency (EPA) Development – The Hon Rob Kerin MP • Greater Green Triangle Farm, Forestry and Plantation • Minister for Environment and Heritage – The Hon Iain Committee Evans MP • Corangamite Catchment Management Authority • Minister for Minerals and Energy – The Hon Wayne • Greening Australia (Regional Facilitators) Matthew MP • Southern Rural Water (Gippsland and Southern Rural Water Authority)

A5-3 Appendix V SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Shadow Ministers SA State Government SA Soil Conservation Boards • Shadow Minister for Environment and Natural • Murray Plains SCB Resources and Water Resources – Mr J Hill MP • Northern Hills SCB • Shadow Minister for Industry and Resources – The • Lacepede-Tatiara SCB Hon Annette Hurley MP • Coorong and Districts SCB • Shadow Minister for Mines and Energy, Industry and Finance – Mr P Holloway MLC South Australian Conservation Organisations • River Glades Wetlands Association South Australian State Government Agencies • Friends of Tea Tree Gully Hills Face and Rural Living • Department for Environment and Heritage (DEH) • Zone Inc. • Environment Protection Agency (EPA) • Nature Conservation Society of SA Inc. • EPA (Mt Lofty Catchment Area) • North East Hills Environment Conservation Assoc. • Native Vegetation Council • The Conservation Council of SA Inc. • National Parks and Wildlife • Crown Lands South Australian Media • The Advertiser Newspaper • Department of Primary Industries and Resources • News Review (Messenger) (PIRSA) • The Border Watch • Forestry SA • Naracoorte Herald • PIRSA (Petroleum Group) • The Murray Valley Standard • PIRSA (Animal and Plant Control Commission) • The Bunyip • Soil Conservation Board • Border Chronicle • Angaston Leader • Department of State Aboriginal Affairs • The Barossa and Light Herald

• Department of Transport Urban Planning and the Arts South Australian Aboriginal Organisations • Transport SA • Ngarrindjeri and Others Native Title Claim • Kaurna Peoples Native Title Claim • Department for Water Resources • Kaurna Meyunna Inc. • South East Catchment Water Management Board • Kungari Incorporated • River Murray Catchment Water Management Board • Mannum Aboriginal Community Association • Mount Lofty Ranges Catchment Program Board • Ngarrindjeri Heritage Committee • Northern Adelaide and Barossa Catchment Water • South East Nungas Association Management Board • Tattyara Aboriginal Heritage Consultancy • Torrens and Patawalonga Catchment Water Management Board

South Australian Local Councils • Tatiara District Council • Naracoorte Lucindale Council • Coorong District Council • Murray Bridge Regional Council • Mid-Murray District Council • The Barossa Council • Gawler Council • City of Playford Council • Port Adelaide Enfield Council • Salisbury City Council

A5-4 SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Plates and Maps SEA Gas Project EER/EIR SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Plates

Plate 3-1: Typical Compressor Station

Plate 3-2: Typical Mainline Valve

Plate 3-3: Typical Scraper Station Plates SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Plate 3-4: Typical Meter Station

Plate 3-5: Clear-and-Grade

Plate 3-6: Trenching SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Plates

Plate 5-1: Coastal Southwestern Victoria

Plate 5-2: Volcanic Plains

Plate 5-3: Dundas Tablelands Plates SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Plate 5-4: Wimmera Plains

Plate 5-5: Southern Mallee

Plate 5-6: Murraylands SEA Gas Project EER/EIR Plates

Plate 5-7: Mount Lofty Ranges

Plate 5-8: Nothern Adelaide Plains

Plate 9-1: Curly Sedge against modified grassland above Breakfast Creek (Site 16b) Plates SEA Gas Project EER/EIR

Plate 9-2: Plains Grassland in Woolsthorpe/Koroit Road reserve (Site 11)

Plate 9-3: Damp Sand Heath (Casterton Rd, Dergholm), showing existing slashed powerline easement (Site 31)

Plate 9-4: Damp Heathy Woodland (Casterton Rd, Dergholm), showing existing road and easement (Site 32) rlls2qp 5 qret2estern

r im

e 5 m

v iver i er

r22 w

hergholm2tte2rk t 2 g

o 5 le 2g lg 222i2x2i2i2 re e flmorl e n k le 5 q qrmpins2xtionl2rk errt

5 hergholm 2i222i22x2222r22

feufort 5 ooloyEvke2wundi2 ildlife2eserve

gsterton vke2qoldsmith golerine oseneth2tte2porest 5 5 q2v2i2x2i2v2q2222r22 222 nn o uldro2 n q2v2i2x2i2v2q2222r22 22 ildlife2eserve 222 22 22 r2i2x22222r22 werino i kipton ve r fol 5 trethm 5 5 5 f vke2vinlithgow e2E2sg22forder ry 2greek n2 5 ilkin2plor2nd2pun2eserve vke2fullrush 5 qrssdle rmilton vke2fol

enhurst 5 r2e2w2s2v22y2x2222r22 vke2qellies iver frnxholme r grwford2iver2egionl2rk 5 e v i grwford wount2xpier2tte2rk hrtmoor vke2vogn lg 5 gor2uillu2ildlife2eserve e n 22s2x2g2i22222r22 grmut e k k l e e q 5 e e r r g 2g lt vower2qlenelg2 xtionl2rk wrthur 5 r2y22u2s2x22222r22 itzroy222 p 222 r2i2x222222r22

i 2

ve u

r r

e rwkesdle 5 m v r i

i e 2 5 wortlke 2

iv t

5 wount2iles w

reywood r r

e e

v v

2i2e22q22s222i2p2e2l2i2n2e xtionl2rk i 5 i

illtook

l vke2golongul l

urrey r oolsthorpe

2222222 e 5

iv e m n vke2gorngmite

e y w vke22ueilmete r u o e

i w rr 22s2x2g2i22222r22 i2 2

hisovery2fy2gostl2rk i v s e n r i erng 5 w k p h o r goden ortlnd 22s2x2g2i22222r22 5 5 gol fridgewter2fy 5 5 5 r ellnsford iv e ort2piry grpendeit2plor rrnmool nd2pun2eserve 5 2owns egister2of2xtionl2istte s x urdie 6 son2qs2lnt vkes g i 6 winerv2qs2lnt rks2nd2gonservtion2eres ie2qs2ipeline tte2porest PH H PH uilometers 6 grlisle2tte2rk 6 r righwys ive 5 ods ort2gmpell rojetionX2 wD2one2SR wp2P d ilwy2line htumX2qheWR rojet2xoX2eiIPQQ n r ht2oureX rojet2itleX2son2to2edelide2ipeline i l

hxi2nd2qeomti2ehnologies hteX2QH2eugust2PHHI hrwn2y2t l hringe e

oftwreX2erview2QFP vyoutX2sgpostereQ gheked2y2 q pileX2dXGeiIPQQGiposterrevSFpr ersionX2ev2FHT ytwy2xtionl2rk

golerine 5 PS 5 eter2prnis2oints2eroretum2plor2eserve q 5 5 7 2v2 d i2 n x n 2 2i nnon2pids2plor2eserve on o 2v 2 in 2q r 2 e 2r 5 ive 2 r 2w 2E 2 e 5 n fhgllh2rR2fushlnd2eserve 7 i 5 er PR or ol tl g n d 2E oolk2rIH2plor2eserve 5 2g 2 st e rt nnon2plls2 2 o r n eni2eserve 2 2 2 d nn 2 on 2 2 x vke2holing2 womoro2rPV 2 22 i 2 i 2 holing2vke2eserve fushlnd2eserve ve 22 r r r2 2q222 x2i2v 5 werino q2v2i2 PQ 5 w e r 7 in womoro2rPW2 o 2 fushlnd2eserve 22 rmilton g vke2vinlithgow282fullrush r d e wmp2vke2eserve e 5 2 k n PP 7 o

e r t 2e2w2s s 2v2 2y2x vke2vinlithgow

g 222

2 wurndl2xPQ2vke2eserve 2r2 vke2uennedy E

higy2rQH2fushlnd2eserve 2 2 vke2fullrush

d h

n rtmoo

r2E2r

l m

t ilton2

r d

o vke2uennedy2ildlife2eserve 5 higy2rQI2 5 fushlnd2eserve 5 higy qrssdle

PI d 2 y ir 7 2p higy2rS2 5 rt fushlnd2eserve o 2 PH 2E n g frnxholme to o il higy2rQP2fushlnd2eserve n 7 d m d

h r or2wmp2ildlife2eserve 2 2

e E n 2 5 g r r o t l o 5 i

l n e d m r ildlife2eserve oo i

r n r 2 e n E

2 g

IW e 2g l d r d fyduk2xorth e 5

e 7 e

k tmerone2lke2gR2ildlife2eserve

l 2

wount2xpier2tte2rk 2 r IV 2 2 2 d222 2 for ive grwford2vke2ildlife2eserve inyyung2rQQ2fushlnd2eserve w r 2 r g 2 7 x 2 5 IU i 2 r lledle2 wrthur2ere grwford2iver2egionl2rk 7 rotspur2rQR2 5 fushlnd2eserve qreenhills2rQT2 5 fushlnd2eserve enny2rQS2fushlnd2eserve

2 2s2 x2g wymyn2E2werthur2d 2i2 22 r2 IT 2 er 5 iv 7 5 22 l el qrssy2plts2ildlife2eserve er hrumorgD2gurrurt2 um wrthur 5 5 i rIQ2fushlnd2eserve r m ilt on w 2E oy vke2gondh 2w ne 22 vke2gondh2ildlife2eserve er th iv ur e inlir2vke2ildlife2eserve 2 IS r wount2iles2tte2rk d wymyn2rQV2fushlnd2eserve 7 IR remine2wmp2ildlife2eserve 5 7

5 owns 5 egister2of2xtionl2istte x 5 5 7 iologil2sites 5 5 55 5 eoriginl2reritge2sites gonservtion2res i 5 wp2S 5 ristoril2reritge2sites 5 tte2porest IH H IH PH uilometres 5 5 ie2qs2ipeline2 5 vke 5 righwys le2IX2PSHDHHH wngrove 55 eondry2od 5 5 5 5 5 rojetionX2 w2one2SR 5 eservoir 5 5 5 winor2 rn2od rojet2xoX2eiIPQQ htumX2qheWR 5 5 5 ujet2to2inundtion hteX2II2ytoer2PHHI ht2supplied2yX2qeomtis2tehnologies2nd2hxiD2itoriF 5 5 5 ivers vyoutX2wp2S rimry2sndustries2nd2esouresD2outh2eustrli hrwn2yX2t outeX2etulyII oftwreX2erview2QFP ilwy2line wmp ersionXX2evFHT pileX2qs5I2dXGeIPQQGenviromsterrevFHTFpr2 gheked2yX2

2d 22 2n 2w 2o 2t 2r 2e 2d 2r 2o f worm ro22g reek prnes 7 SH 5 vke gdnite lpr2gonservtion2rk ueppoh 5

2 goktoo2vke s2 h 2h 2y 2 g 2r 22 2r 2

2 2

qrss2ree2 gdgee gonservtion2rk 7 RW 5 llgeir wount2ott2gonservtion2rk pirview2 voher2wmp gonservtion2rk

wullinger2wmp2 gonservtion2rk

ek gre te22 oor r x 7 RV ll2ll 5 7 RU

55 xroorte 7 RT5 rynm 222 2e2222r 2 eEsg2forder 5 2w2i 2s2w 7 RS

2l2e2222d v2u22i2n2d2 ilmor22hrin2 uoppmurr 5 wo squ ito2g reek

xroorte2gves 7 gonservtion2rk RR e e d y 2 trun 2 g

r e 5 RQ 7 e 5 k fig2reth rks2vgoon2 5 gonservtion2rk gonservtion2rk hiry2plt tonn fool2vgoon2 qme2eserve RI 7

5 owns x 7 iologil2sites egister2of2xtionl2istte 5 5 eoriginl2reritge2sites i 5 5 gonservtion2res 5 5 ristoril2reritge2sites 5 55 tte2porest IH H IH PH uilometres 5 wp2U

ie2qs2ipeline2 5 vke 5 5 righwys le2IX2PSHDHHH 5 wngrove 5 eondry2od 55 winor2 rn2od eservoir rojetionX2 w2one2SR 5 rojet2xoX2eiIPQQ htumX2qheWR 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 hteX2II2ytoer2PHHI ht2supplied2yX2qeomtis2tehnologies2nd2hxiD2itoriF hrwn2yX2t 5 ivers ujet2to2inundtion 5 vyoutX2wp2U rimry2sndustries2nd2esouresD2outh2eustrli 5 5 5 5 outeX2etulyII oftwreX2erview2QFP gheked2yX2 5 ilwy2line wmp ersionXX2evFHT pileX2qs5I2dXGeIPQQGenviromsterrevFHTFpr2

gllington wurry2fridge 5 5

22 s2x2g2i 2222 wnport 22r2 22 5

e wonrto 2 wonteith d2 gonservtion2rk e2 5 l2 2i2 d2 e2 r 2E e 2w iv 2e 2l r2 2 e 2o m 2u e 2r r 2n f 2 e2 oods2oint 5 22 2 2i2 l2w 2 perriesEwhonld 2 gonservtion2rk y ilem2fend 5

tervois 5 woorlnds 5 qrsslnds

5 ellington w2e2v2v2i2 i2222r222 5

olderol g gooke2lins 2 5

x 5

gonservtion2rk 2

h 2 7 2u TR 2i 2 22 22r 2 TQ 2 v22k2e22e2l2e2x22n2d2r2i2n22 7

TP 7 goomndook 5

TI 7 TH 7

owns 5 x 5 7 iologil2sites egister2of2xtionl2istte 5 5 i 5 5 eoriginl2reritge2sites 5 gonservtion2res 5 5 5 ristoril2reritge2sites IH H IH PH uilometres 5 tte2porest 5 wp2IH ie2qs2ipeline2 5 5 vke 5 righwys le2IX2PSHDHHH 5

wngrove 55 eondry2od 5

5 5 5 5 eservoir rojetionX2 w2one2SR 5 winor2 rn2od 5 5 5 rojet2xoX2eiIPQQ htumX2qheWR 5 hteX2II2ytoer2PHHI ht2supplied2yX2qeomtis2tehnologies2nd2hxiD2itoriF hrwn2yX2t 5 5 ivers ujet2to2inundtion 5 5 5 vyoutX2wp2IH rimry2sndustries2nd2esouresD2outh2eustrli ilwy2line wmp outeX2etulyII oftwreX2erview2QFP gheked2yX2 ersionXX2evFHT pileX2qs5I2dXGeIPQQGenviromsterrevFHTFpr2 5 ungroo2plt 5 osedle uiserstuhl gonservtion2rk vyndoh 5 qwler 5 wo2ells 5 5 5 ndy2greek gonservtion2rk 2 7 y 5 wrne2lley 2 TU 2 gonservtion2rk 7 k TV e 22 5 2 UV e 5 iden2lley r 2 7 7 g e er2 2 2 er22iv 2 u wl 5 q UW 5 i 2i r 7 5 o 2p t

2 VH 5 i s2 fross2eservoir wilner i 5 2 7 v 5 illimstown

5 2h r 5 TW irgini VP VI e 2 5 v r2irr 2 i 5 2 5 5 7 2 eretion2rk 2 7 h rle VQ 7 r ort2qwler gonservtion2rk gonservtion2rk 5 2 5 h 5 t 5 u o UH prington 5 5 5 7 5 rren2eservoir outh2r2eservoir 5 5 ilizeth rren vittle2r2eservoir gonservtion2rk UI 5 7 engs2lley t2uild 5 5 r22iver tle22 frker2snlet vit 5 lisury wount2lesnt orrens2sslnd 5 5 55 5 2h 5 5 gonservtion2rk 5 2 gromer2gonservtion2rk 5 22 goler2greek 5 elin2oint25 5 2r 6 5 2 gonservtion2rk 5 5 7 2 uersrook 5 UP yfftke2ttion VR 2y x 7 elin2oint 22 22 7 2x 7 VS 2s e2ree2qully UQ 5 2e r2rills 5 w 5 5 5 5 willsrook2eservoir 5 firdwood 7 5 VU VT 5 engove2ru qumerh 5 gonservtion2rk 5 5 5 75 gudlee2greek 6 enstey2rill emphore 5 gonservtion2rk 5 5 5 qepps2gross2 rope2lley2eservoir ungroo2greek lmer weter2ttion eservoir 22 22e 5 22 flk2rill wount2orrens 22 5 22 gonservtion2rk 2222w 222 22i r wontute 22 ive ostrevor gonservtion2rk 22s 22 ns 5 re or 5 voethl 5 worilt2gonservtion2rk 5 eedy2greek2 5 qrnge UR xtionl2istte2ere 7 wnnum ghrleston gonservtion2rk 5ehiveshi rorsnell2qully q gonservtion2rk le n2y sm on d 2 uenneth2tirling epko d gonservtion2rk 5 glelnd2gonservtion2rk

frownhill2greek wount2qeorge gonservtion2rk tu gonservtion2rk rt2 22 2 he2unoll i v 2 e hepherds2rill gonservtion2rk 2 r2 y gonservtion2rk 2 2 2r felir2xtionl2rk 222 i2 e2 turt2qorge wrk2yliphnt 2 2i yhllorn2rill gonservtion2rk gonservtion2rk 2 2x2 gonservtion2rk wylor 222p gonservtion2rk 22

owns 5 x 5 7 iologil2sites egister2of2xtionl2istte 5 5 i 5 5 eoriginl2reritge2sites 5 gonservtion2res 5 5 5 ristoril2reritge2sites IH H IH PH uilometres 5 wp2II tte2porest 5 ie2qs2ipeline2 5 5 vke 5 righwys le2IX2PSHDHHH 5

wngrove 55 eondry2od 5