Australian Capital Territory

Planning and Development (EIS Exemption Application – Molonglo 132KV Transmission Lines Relocation) Consultation Notice 2020

Notifiable Instrument NI2020- 221 made under the

Planning and Development Act 2007, s 211C (EIS Exemption Application – public consultation) and s 147AB (Public notification of concurrent documents)

1 Name of instrument This instrument is the Planning and Development (EIS Exemption Application – Molonglo 132KV Transmission Lines Relocation) Consultation Notice 2020.

2 Commencement

This instrument commences on the day after its notification day.

3 EIS exemption application (1) The proposed Molonglo 132KV Transmission Lines Relocation is located within Block 71 Molonglo Valley and Block 1578 Belconnen. (2) The proponent has applied for an EIS exemption for the proposal under section 211B of the Planning and Development Act 2007. This EIS exemption application is in the schedule and is available on the planning and land authority website (see note 1). (3) The EIS exemption application is a concurrent document for a concurrent development application. (4) In this instrument: concurrent document see section 147AA of the Act. concurrent consultation period see section 147AA of the Act. concurrent development application see section 147AA of the Act EIS means environmental impact statement, see section 208 of the Act. EIS exemption see section 211 of the Act. EIS exemption application see section 211B of the Act.

4 Concurrent development application (1) The proponent has lodged a concurrent development application, DA 201936352, for the proposal under section 147AB of the Act. The concurrent development application is available on the planning and land authority website (see note 2).

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

(2) The concurrent development application cannot be finalised until the concurrent process is complete (see s 147AB(3)(a)(ii) of the Act). (3) If the EIS exemption application is refused, rejected or withdrawn, the concurrent development application is taken to have been refused (see s 147AB(3)(c) of the Act).

5 Public consultation (1) The public consultation period (concurrent consultation period) on the EIS exemption application and concurrent development application commences on the day this instrument commences and ends 35 working days later. Anyone may give a written representation to the Chief Planning Executive (delegate) about the EIS exemption application or the concurrent development application. (2) Representations may be given only during the consultation period.

6 Making of representations (1) Representations should be addressed to the Chief Planning Executive and sent by: • email to [email protected]; • mail to: Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Customer Service GPO Box 158 Canberra ACT 2601; or • hand to the Access Canberra Shopfront at 16 Challis Street, Dickson.

(2) Representations should include the application reference number (EIS exemption 201900048) and the name and contact details of the person making the representation.

Note 1 The EIS exemption application is available during the consultation period on the planning and land authority website at https://www.planning.act.gov.au/development_applications/da_assessment/environm ental_assessment/exemption_from_requiring_an_eis_s211 Note 2 The concurrent development application is available during the consultation period on the planning and land authority website at https://www.planning.act.gov.au/development_applications/pubnote Note 3 Printed copies of the EIS exemption application and background documents are available for inspection and purchase at the Access Canberra Shopfront, 16 Challis Street, Dickson. The Customer Service Centre is open Monday to Friday (except public holidays) between 8:30am and 4:30pm. Please call 02 6207 1923 to arrange a copy for purchase. Note 4 As required by s 211F of the Act, copies of submissions will be made publicly available on the planning and land authority website (see note 1) until the consultation period ends or the submission is withdrawn. Also, copies of submissions will be provided to the proponent. Published submissions will include the name and contact details of the person making the submission as well as the other content of the submission. A request for exclusion of information from publication can be made under section 411 or 412 of the Act. A request for exclusion under these sections must be made in writing, clearly identifying what exclusions are sought and how the request satisfies the exclusion criteria in sections 411 or 412 of the Act.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

Note 5 The Minister has delegated his functions under sections 211C, 211D, 211E, 211F and 211H (6) of the Act to the Chief Planning Executive (refer to Legislation (Planning and Development) Delegation 2015 (No 3) Notifiable instrument NI2015–180).

Ben Ponton Chief Planning Executive (delegate of the Minister for Planning and Land Management) 14 April 2020

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Schedule - see section 3(2) . Access··~ Canberra .. • Application for Environmental Impact Assessment Processes - Submission confirmation Your submission has been successful. Please keep a copy of this receipt for your records. Date and time Reference code

29 Oct 2019 4:57:40 PM Z2VKV3 ..______,] [..______, $formProperties['FollowUpDetails']

Access Canberra GPO Box 158 Phone: (02) 6207 1923 ABN: 68 367 113 536 Canberra ACT 2601 Email: [email protected] Type of application Type of application * Request for Exemption to Provide EIS

Have you attended a pre‐application meeting or received written pre‐application advice in relation to the proposal that is the subject of this application? * 0 Yes 0 No

Project name * MOLONGLO 132KV TRANSMISSION LINES RELOCATION

Project description * The Project includes the relocation of existing overhead 132kV transmission lines in Molonglo in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The existing transmission lines are currently located within the Molonglo Stage 3 Future Urban Area, proposed for residential development over the next 25 years. The new transmission lines will be located on a different alignment to the existing overhead lines, which is more conducive to the future development of Molonglo Stage 3. The cost of the project is offset by the benefit the project delivers for urban development.

Lease/site details

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Site 1 Suburb * Section * Block * [MOLONGLO VALLEY D )[ 0 ) [ 71 ) Address line 1

l J Address line 2 I I Suburb State Postcode rMOLONGLO VALLEY D l [ACT )LJ2611 Land Use Zone/s applicable to this site * l Approved Rural - CZ1, PRZ1, RZ1, NUZ4, TSZ1

Site 2 Suburb * Section * Block * [BELCONNEN D )[ 0 ] [ 1587 ) Address line 1 William Hovell Drive Road Reserve (For a length outside the blocks mentioned and above entering Block 1587 l J Address line 2 I I Suburb State Postcode rBELCONNEN D l [ACT )LJ2617 Land Use Zone/s applicable to this site * I Road Reserve J

Applicant details Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Are you applying as: * a company/department/government agency

Name of company/department/government agency * Position held in company/department/government agency * Calibre Professional Services Pty Ltd Transport Leader

Enter an ABN or ACN: * ABN (Australian Business Number) ACN (Australian Company Number) 55070683037 Contact person

Title Given name * Family name * Mr Michael Merange Postal address

Address line 1 * Level 6,121 Marcus Clarke Street

Address line 2

Suburb * State * Postcode * Canberra lACT Jn2601 Enter at least one phone number: * Home phone number Work phone number Mobile number ______,I [0262117105 I[____ 0447177263 ___,

Email * [email protected]

Lessee (property owners) or land custodian (Government) details

Lessee/land custodian 1

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au  Same as applicant Is the lessee/land custodian a company? * 0 Yes 0 No

Title Given name * Family name * Mr Mark Sweaney [ ] ..______, ,.______, Company name * Position held * ACT Government - Parks and Conservation Service | AssistantEnvironment, Director Planning (Area and Manger) Sustainable – Urban Development Reserves North Directorate ,I Enter an ABN or ACN: * ABN (Australian Business Number) ACN (Australian Company Number) 66893463785 ,I Address line 1 * 500 Cotter Rd

Address line 2

Suburb * State * Postcode * Coombs ACT 2611 ------J ____l D

Enter at least one phone number: * Home phone number Work phone number Mobile number 0262050526 0427745420

Email * [email protected] ,I

Lessee/land custodian 2

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Is the lessee/land custodian a company? * 0 Yes 0 No

Title Given name * Family name * Mr Ken Marshall

Company name * Position held * ACT Government - City Places and Infrastructure, RoadsExecutive ACT | Branch Transport Manager, Canberra Roads and ACT City Services Directorate J Enter an ABN or ACN: * ABN (Australian Business Number) ACN (Australian Company Number) 37307569373

Address line 1 * 496 Northbourne Avenue

Address line 2

Suburb * State * Postcode * Dickson ACT 2602 ,.______; [ ]LJ Enter at least one phone number: * Home phone number Work phone number Mobile number 0262076588

Email * [email protected] J

Request for Exemption to Provide Environmental Impact Statement  The relevant development table states that the impact track applies. The proposal is of a kind mentioned in Schedule 4 of the Planning and Development Act 2007  (http://www.legislation.act.gov.au/a/2007-24/). Please list the relevant Part(s) and item numbers: Part 4.2 and 4.3  The Minister has made a declaration under section 124 in relation to the proposal. Section 125 (Declaration by Public Health Act Minister affects assessment track) provides that the impact track applies  to the proposal. Section 132 (Impact track applicable to development proposals not otherwise provided for) provides that the impact  track applies to the proposal. A bilateral assessment applies as the proposal is a controlled action under the Commonwealth Environment Protection  and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc).

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Prescribed entities Have you had any meetings/discussions with relevant prescribed entities? * 0 Yes 0 No

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC)

Does the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 affect your proposal? * 0 Yes 0 No

Supporting documents Attach lessee/land custodian authorisation (http://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/898422/LETTER_OF_AUTHORISATION.pdf).

PCS - S211 - Form.pdf

TCCS - s211 Form.pdf

Attach all required documentation.

8139b_R01_FINAL_s211.pdf

Is your documentation larger than 10MB? * 0 Yes 0 No

Conflict of interest declaration

Does the applicant or lessee have any association with EPSDD staff? * 0 Yes 0 No

Applicant declaration

Please tick the relevant boxes I/we declare that this application is accompanied by all of the required information and or documents and *  understand that the documentation provided via electronic lodgement will be considered to be the relevant documentation associated with this application; and understand that the information submitted with this application form will undergo a documentation check.  I/we declare that this application will be considered lodged once the relevant application fees have been paid; * I/we hereby acknowledge that the lessee may authorise ACT Government officers to access the subject property(s) *  for the purpose of evaluating the proposal;  I/we declare that all the information given on this form and its attachments is true and complete; * I/we declare that I/we have the appropriate delegation or authority to apply on behalf of the company, organisation *  or Government agency.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au LETTER OF AUTHORISATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESSES ACT FOR APPLICANTS TO OBTAIN PERMISSION FROM THE LESSEE/S TO LODGE AN Government APPLICATION WITH THE ACT GOVERNMENT.

LEASE/SITE DETAILS (Please Print) ff more than one lease/site please attach the following details for each additional lease/site on a separate sheet

Suburb Section I I Molonglo Valley Block 1.... _ N_IA_ _ ___, .__N_/A_ _ _ __.

Unit Several Crossing points and through the reserve on south side of ~ N_/_A_ _ ~I Street Address No. William Hovell Drive

This application relates to: (please tick the applicable bo,c below)

□ Environmental Significance □ EIS scoping document !!I S211 exemption from EIS Opinion (ESQ)

LESSEE(s) DECLARATION all lessees/land custodians must authorise the lodgement of this application. In dol~g so the lessee/land custodian gives authority to the applicant to negotiate any deallngs in relation to the application through to Its determination. If more than two lessees please provide details of each addi tional lessee on a separate sheet

• I/we declare that I am/we are the lessee(s) of the land described above; • I/we have been made aware of the declaration clauses; and • I/we declare that all the information given on this form is true and complete. • I/we the undersigned, declare that this application is accompanied by all of the required information and or documents and understand that the documentation provided via electronic lodgment will be considered to be the relevant documentation associated with this application; and understand that the information submitted with this application form will undergo a documentation check. • I/we understand that this application will be considered lodged once the relevant application fees have been paid; • I/we the undersigned (lessee) appoint the applicant whose name and signature appear below to act on my/our behalf in relation to this application. This authorises the applicant to pay for all application fees, bonds, end securities, liaise with the planning and land authority when required, alter amend or provide further information as necessary and receive any communications relating to this application; • I/we declare that all the information given on this form and its attachments is true and complete; • If signing on behalf of a company, organisation or Government agency: • I/we the undersigned, declare I/we have the appropriate delegation or authority to sign on behalf of t he company, organisation or Government agency

Print Signature Date I 7ffJo7rcz 1

Print Signature Date I I

APPLIC

• I/we declare that all Information given on this form and its attachment is true and correct. • If signing on behalf of a organisation or Government agency:- I/we the undersigned declare I/we have the appropriate delegat io·n or authority to sign on behalf of the organisation or Government Agency.

Applicant Organisation Name I Michael Merange Name Calibre

Signature 22/10/2019

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Privacy Notice The personal information on this form is provided to Access Canberra (AC) and Environment, Planning and Sust<1inable Development Directorate (EPSDD) to enable the processing of your application. The collection of personal information is authorised by the Planning and Development Act 2007. If all or some of the personal information is not collected AC or EPSDD cannot process your application. The Planning and Development Act 2007 requires the details of applications, decisions and orders to be kept on a register and made available for public inspection. Information and documentation relevant to a development spplication may be made available via the Internet. The personal Information you provide may be disclosed to Australian Bure.iu of St stist ics, ACT Revenue Office, the Registrar General's Office, ACTEW Corporation, Icon Water, Evoenergy, Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate and other Government agencies with a direct interest in the development assessment process. The information may also bed isclosed where authorised by law or court order, or where the Di rectorote reasomibly believes that the use or disclosure of the information is reasonably necessary for enforcement-related activities conducted by, or on behalf of, an enforcement body. EPSDD's Information Privacy Policy contains information about how you may access or seek to correct your personal information held by EPSDD, and how you may complain about an alleged breach of the Territory Privacy Principles. The EPSDD Information Privacy Policy can be found at http:ljwww.planning.act.gov.au Contact I nformalion: Online: Phone; In Person: www.acl.gov.au/accessCBR (02) 62071923 Building Services shopfront - Mitchell or TTY {02) 62072622 Environment, Planning and Land Shopfront - Dickson Please visit http://www.planning.act.gov.au/home or call 13 22 81 for opening hours and location details.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 2 LETTER OF AUTHORISATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESSES FOR APPLICANTS TO OBTAIN PERMISSION FROM THE LESSEE/S TO LODGE AN APPLICATION WITH THE ACT GOVERNMENT.

LEASE/SITE DETAILS (Please Print)

If more than one lease/site please attach the following details for each additional lease/site on a separate sheet

Block Section Suburb I

Unit ..------,I Street Address No.

This application relates to: (please tick the applicable box below)

 Environmental Significance  EIS scoping document  S211 exemption from EIS Opinion (ESO)

LESSEE(s) DECLARATION all lessees/land custodians must authorise the lodgement of this application. In doing so the lessee/land custodian gives authority to the applicant to negotiate any dealings in relation to the application through to its determination. If more than two lessees please provide details of each additional lessee on a separate sheet

 I/we declare that I am/we are the lessee(s) of the land described above;  I/we have been made aware of the declaration clauses; and  I/we declare that all the information given on this form is true and complete.  I/we the undersigned, declare that this application is accompanied by all of the required information and or documents and understand that the documentation provided via electronic lodgment will be considered to be the relevant documentation associated with this application; and understand that the information submitted with this application form will undergo a documentation check.  I/we understand that this application will be considered lodged once the relevant application fees have been paid;  I/we the undersigned (lessee) appoint the applicant whose name and signature appear below to act on my/our behalf in relation to this application. This authorises the applicant to pay for all application fees, bonds, and securities, liaise with the planning and land authority when required, alter amend or provide further information as necessary and receive any communications relating to this application;  I/we declare that all the information given on this form and its attachments is true and complete;  If signing on behalf of a company, organisation or Government agency:  I/we the undersigned, declare I/we have the appropriate delegation or authority to sign on behalf of the company, organisation or Government agency ,I I /,\ Print Signature Date Name I 22/10/19

Print Signature Date Name I

APPLICANT DECLARATION

 I/we declare that all information given on this form and its attachment is true and correct.  If signing on behalf of a organisation or Government agency:- I/we the undersigned declare I/we have the appropriate delegation or authority to sign on behalf of the organisation or Government Agency.

Applicant Organisation Name Name

Signature Date

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 1

Privacy Notice The personal information on this form is provided to Access Canberra (AC) and Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) to enable the processing of your application. The collection of personal information is authorised by the Planning and Development Act 2007. If all or some of the personal information is not collected AC or EPSDD cannot process your application. The Planning and Development Act 2007 requires the details of applications, decisions and orders to be kept on a register and made available for public inspection. Information and documentation relevant to a development application may be made available via the Internet. The personal information you provide may be disclosed to Australian Bureau of Statistics, ACT Revenue Office, the Registrar General’s Office, ACTEW Corporation, Icon Water, Evoenergy, Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate and other Government agencies with a direct interest in the development assessment process. The information may also be disclosed where authorised by law or court order, or where the Directorate reasonably believes that the use or disclosure of the information is reasonably necessary for enforcement-related activities conducted by, or on behalf of, an enforcement body. EPSDD’s Information Privacy Policy contains information about how you may access or seek to correct your personal information held by EPSDD, and how you may complain about an alleged breach of the Territory Privacy Principles. The EPSDD Information Privacy Policy can be found at http://www.planning.act.gov.au Contact Information: Online: Phone: In Person: www.act.gov.au/accessCBR (02) 62071923 Building Services shopfront – Mitchell or TTY (02) 62072622 Environment, Planning and Land Shopfront - Dickson Please visit http://www.planning.act.gov.au/home or call 13 22 81 for opening hours and location details.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 2

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MOLONGLO 132KV TRANSMISSION LINES RELOCATION

EIS Exemption Application Supporting Documentation FINAL

February 2020

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

C calibre CONSULTING

MOLONGLO 132KV TRANSMISSION LINES RELOCATION

EIS Exemption Application Supporting Documentation

FINAL

Prepared by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited on behalf of Calibre Group

Project Director: Karina Carwardine Project Manager: Amanda Ellem Report No. 8139b/R01/V6 Date: February 2020 ,

umwelt Canberra

2/99 Northbourne Avenue Turner, ACT 2612

Ph. 1300 793 267

www.umwelt.com.au

This report was prepared using Umwelt’s ISO 9001 certified Quality Management System. IQuality ISO 9001

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

Disclaimer This document has been prepared for the sole use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that for which it was supplied by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (Umwelt). No other party should rely on this document without the prior written consent of Umwelt.

Umwelt undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to any third party who may rely upon or use this document. Umwelt assumes no liability to a third party for any inaccuracies in or omissions to that information. Where this document indicates that information has been provided by third parties, Umwelt has made no independent verification of this information except as expressly stated. ©Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd Document Status

Rev No. Reviewer Approved for Issue

Name Date Name Date

V1 Amanda Ellem 16/08/2018 Karina Carwardine 16/08/2018

V2 Caitlin Adcock 5/09/2018 Karina Carwardine 5/09/2018

V3 Karina Carwardine 14/09/2018 Karina Carwardine 14/09/2018

V4 Karina Carwardine 18/10/2019 Karina Carwardine 18/10/2019

V5 Karina Carwardine 29/11/2019 Karina Carwardine 29/11/2019

FINAL Karina Carwardine 12/02/2020 Karina Carwardine 12/02/2020

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction 6 2.0 Project Details 7 2.1 Project Description 7 2.1.1 Project Staging 9 2.2 Objectives of the Project 9 2.3 Planning Context 9 2.4 Project Area 12 3.0 Planning and Development Act Triggers 14 3.1 Electricity Transmission Line Construction 15 3.2 Clearing of Native Vegetation 17 3.3 Impacts to Heritage Places or Objects 19 4.0 Description of Nature Conservation Values 20 4.1 Importance of the Project Area for Existing Processes or Natural Systems of the ACT 20 4.2 Unusual Richness or Diversity of Flora, Fauna, or Landscapes 20 4.3 Uncommon, Rare, or Endangered Flora, Fauna, Communities, Natural Landscapes, or Phenomena 21 4.4 Location Important for Demonstrating Principal Characteristics of the Range of Landscapes, Environments, or Ecosystems Identified as Characteristic of their Class 21 4.5 Location Importance for Providing an Understanding of the ACT’s Natural History 21 5.0 Measures to Avoid, Mitigate, and Offset 22 6.0 Preliminary Risk Assessment 23 7.0 Interaction with Existing Planning Approval Conditions 24 7.1 Decision under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 24 7.2 Decision under the Planning and Development Act 2007 24 7.3 Project’s Consistency with Existing Approval Conditions 24 8.0 Additional Information Required 26 8.1 Currency of Supporting Documentation 26 8.2 Consultation 30 9.0 Conclusion 31 10.0 References 32

Molon glo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Introduction 8139b_R01_V6_s211 5

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 1.0 Introduction

This report is provided for the information of the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) as supporting documentation for a request for an exemption from requiring an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (hereafter referred to as the exemption application) under Section 211 of the Planning and Development Act 2007 (ACT) (PD Act) for the relocation of 132kV transmission lines in Molonglo (the Project, defined in Section 2).

Information presented in this document and the accompanying risk assessment matrix (Appendix 1) addresses the information requirements outlined in Section 9 of Form 1M ‘Application For: EIS Scoping Document, Environment Significance Opinion, s211 Exemption from EIS’1 and the associated guidelines (EPSDD, 2017) (summarised in Table 1.1).

Table 1.1 Form 1M Information Requirements

Required Information under Form 1M Location in this Report

1 A statement outlining the objectives of the Project and why it is Section 2.2 needed.

2 A description of the nature/type of project proposed by providing Section 2 location map(s) of the project site(s), preliminary design drawings and satellite/aerial photographs.

3 A preliminary risk assessment (PRA) based on the guidance Section 6 document for Proponents (EPSDD, 2017). Appendix 1

4 A description of the natural conservation values of the site based Section 4 on the considerations listed in the guidance document for Proponents (EPSDD, 2017).

5 A description of measures included within the Project that seek Section 5 to avoid and minimise (and as a last resort, offset) impacts on identified conservation values.

6 Any decision made under the Environment Protection and Section 7.1 Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) (EPBC Act).

Details of qualifications, expertise, and experience of the Section 8.1 person(s) who conducted previous studies supporting the application.

Details of public consultation undertaken as part of statutory Section 8.2 7 requirement or otherwise, for projects or previous studies included as supporting documentation undertaken.

Verification from a qualified person that the information in the Section 8.1 previous studies supporting the application is still current.

1 Approved form AF2017-201, approved by Ben Ponton, Chief Planning Executive, Planning and Land Authority, on 29 September 2017 under section 425 of the Planning and Development Act 2007 and revokes form AF2017-37.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Introduction 8139b_R01_V6_s211 6

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 2.0 Project Details

2.1 Project Description

The Project includes the relocation of existing overhead 132kV transmission lines in Molonglo in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) (Figure 2.1). The existing transmission lines are currently located within the Molonglo Stage 3 Future Urban Area (hereafter referred to as Molonglo Stage 3), proposed for residential development over the next 25 years (Umwelt, 2017). The new transmission lines will be located on a different alignment to the existing overhead lines, which is more conducive to the future development of Molonglo Stage 3 (Figure 2.1). The cost of the project is offset by the benefit the project delivers for urban development.

The existing transmission lines are above ground, supported by steel towers. The new transmission lines will consist entirely of underground cabling. Connection to the existing grid will occur to the east of Kama Nature Reserve (within Molonglo Stage 3), at the north-eastern end of the alignment (north of William Hovell Drive), and at the south-eastern end of the alignment (at Tuggeranong Parkway). This is described further in Section 3.1.

Where the proposed alignment crosses William Hovell Drive and the Tuggeranong Parkway, existing underpasses, culverts or under-boring will be used to limit traffic disruptions and damage to road surfaces.

Specifically, the Project includes the following activities:

• Construction of approximately nine kilometres of underground 132kV transmissions lines built to Evoenergy standards, along the alignment shown in Figure 2.1. This activity will include the following elements:

o Installation of conduit and cables within temporarily open trenches (up to 10 metres disturbance width depending upon number of conduits laid). Trenches will be backfilled with thermally stabilised backfill (e.g. sand), topsoil, and revegetated;

o Installation of numerous access points for ongoing maintenance access (not visible post construction); and

o Construction of an access track, which will be around five to seven metres wide (excluding any required batters in steep areas) to be used for construction and ongoing maintenance access. Existing or proposed roads (e.g. within Whitlam) and tracks (e.g. Boundary Road within the Arboretum) will be used as the access track where possible.

• Decommissioning and removal of approximately nine kilometres of the existing overhead 132kV transmission lines, including 29 steel lattice towers.

The total impact area along the alignment is expected to be no more than 20 metres wide, including all temporary and permanent works.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Project Details 8139b_R01_V6_s211 7

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File Name: R01-8139B_001 10/12/2019 2:49:19 R01-8139B_001 PM 10/12/2019 Name: File V R E COOMBES L RIVE E HINDMARSH D M km 1:59195.5 at A4 0 0.5 1 2 6087042 Legend c:::J S211 Exemption Boundary Underground Transmission Line Alignment Existing Overhead Transmission Line Easement FIGURE 2.1 Roads Watercourse Existing and Proposed Alignment Location

Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 2.1.1 Project Staging

The Project will be relocating two existing 132kV alignments. These overhead alignments currently extend from:

• Kama Nature Reserve across to Tuggeranong Parkway in the south-east – the Belconnen/Woden line; and

• William Hovell Drive, south to Tuggeranong Parkway – the Civic/Woden line.

The Project will relocate these existing transmission lines through the following stages:

• Stage 1:

o trenching and installation of conduit and cables for the Belconnen/Woden line;

o trenching and installation of conduit only for the Civic/Woden line; and

o decommissioning of the current Belconnen/Woden overhead lines.

• Stage 2:

o Installation of cables into the already installed conduit for the Civic/Woden line; and

o decommissioning of the Civic/Woden overhead line.

The first stage of the Project is set by the need to remove the Belconnen/Woden overhead line as this line runs through the proposed Whitlam Stage 3 Future Urban Area (FUA). Whitlam Stage 3 is planned to commence in 2020.

Stage 2 of the relocation will occur at a later date. The towers in the Civic/Woden line will need to be removed prior to development reaching the Arboretum, expected to be in the order of 10 years from now. 2.2 Objectives of the Project

The primary objective of the Project is to allow for the residential development of Stage 3 of the Molonglo Valley. The location of the existing transmission lines conflicts with residential development due to the land take of the transmission lines, the devaluation of land values near transmission lines, and the constraints put on suburb design. The proposed location and the underground method of installation of the new transmission lines will result in greatly reduced impacts on the development and amenity of Molonglo Stage 3.

To enable construction of Whitlam Stage 3 to commence, Stage 1 of the Project needs to be completed by Autumn 2020. 2.3 Planning Context

As linear infrastructure associated with an approved residential development, the Project is located across both Territory land and Designated Areas (see Figure 2.2). These two land designations are subject to the following separate approvals processes:

• Territory Land: approval from EPSDD under the Planning and Development Act 2007 (PD Act); and

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Project Details 8139b_R01_V6_s211 9

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu

• Designated Area: Works Approval from the National Capital Authority (a Commonwealth Agency).

Furthermore, the vast majority of the Project occurs within the boundary of an existing EIS exemption approval, thus does not require further assessment under the Impact Track of the PD Act. The Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption was approved by the Minister for Planning and Land Management on 8 May 2018. This existing EIS exemption approval is for the residential development of Molonglo Stage 3; and includes the decommissioning of the existing transmission lines and the construction of the new transmission lines within the boundary of the Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption approval (Figure 2.2).

The Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption application documentation concluded that any residual impacts of the relocation of the transmission lines occurring within the future urban area (FUA) boundary had been considered and appropriately mitigated or offset by the commitments of the ‘Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance’ (NES Plan) (ACTPLA 2011) and outcomes of the 2015 feasibility study.

Hence this exemption application applies to all portions of the Project that occur outside the existing Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption boundary, within Territory Land (discussed further in Section 2.4). Remaining areas outside of the existing Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption will be subject to Works Approval from the National Capital Authority.

Given the lineal and contiguous nature of the Project, it is noted that this assessment considers the broader context of the Project along its entire length to ensure a full and detailed assessment is undertaken.

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 683704 685204 686704 688204 689704 °!

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km 1:40000 at A4 0 0.5 1 2 6089142 Legend c:::J S211 Exemption Boundary Underground Transmission Line Alignment D Territory Land FIGURE 2.2 D Designated Area 122::::l EIS Exemption Approved Planning Context for the Project Roads Watercourse

Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 2.4 Project Area

For the purposes of this exemption application, the Project Area includes the portions of the alignments (both proposed and existing) that are located within Territory Land, outside of the existing Molonglo Stage 3 FUA as shown in Figure 2.3. The Project Area, as assessed in this application, includes the maximum extent of works (20 metres, as described below) with an additional 40 metre wide buffer. This footprint has been defined to ensure all surrounding environmental values are captured in the assessment, and to ensure any minor changes to the alignment during detailed design are still captured. The actual impact area will be substantially smaller, limited to the following areas:

• Temporary disturbance from the construction of trenches along the length of the proposed new alignment (up to 10 metres disturbance width depending upon number of conduits laid);

• Permanent access track (excluding batters) (five to seven metres wide), generally located parallel to the trench however may deviate away in areas with steep slopes and creek crossings (permanent);

• Minor disturbance around towers during removal (temporary); and

• Minor disturbance from stockpiles during trenching and vehicle parking (temporary).

The total impact area along the proposed alignment is expected to be no more than 20 metres wide, including temporary and permanent impacts.

The Project Area is located within the existing road reserves for William Hovell Drive and Coulter Drive; and adjacent paddocks. While in proximity to the Mount Painter Nature Reserve and Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve which are protected for their high environmental values; the environment of the Project Area is generally highly modified from historical agricultural, forestry, and infrastructure use (Umwelt 2018; Umwelt 2017; and ELA 2011).

Soils landscapes within the Project Area include the colluvial Campbell soil landscape; transferral Williamsdale soil landscape; the erosional Burra soil landscape; and the alluvial Lower Molonglo Variant B (ACT Government, 2018). The topography of the Project Area generally slopes upwards to the north towards Mount Painter and the Pinnacle. A number of creek and drainage lines run generally south from the Project Area, tributaries to the Molonglo River.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Project Details 8139b_R01_V6_s211 12

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 686318 687818 °! GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Zone MGA 1994 GDA

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km 1:10000 at A4 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 6093921 Legend c:::J S211 Exemption Boundary Underground Transmission Line Alignment Watercourse FIGURE 2.3 Project Area Subject to this EIS Exemption Application

Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 3.0 Planning and Development Act Triggers

During preparation of this document, a literature review of all available documentation relating to the Project was completed. The findings of the literature review were compared against the triggers for Impact Track assessment under Schedule 4 of the PD Act. The items that will, or may, be triggered by the Project are listed in Table 3.1, noting that this table does not include items that have been determined to be not applicable to the Project.

Table 3.1 Schedule 4 Triggers Relevant to the Project

Part Item Trigger Relevant Report I I I I Section 4.2 2 Proposal that involves – Yes Section 3.1 (a) electricity transmission line construction, including additions or realignment works, outside an existing easement or exceeding 500 m in length, that are intended to carry underground or above-ground transmission lines with a voltage or 132kV or more.

4.3 2 Proposal involving – Yes Section 3.2 (a) the clearing of more than 0.5ha of native vegetation in a native vegetation area, other than on land that is designated as a future urban area (FUA) under the territory plan, unless the conservator of flora and fauna produces an environmental significance opinion that the clearing is not likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact.

4.3 6 Proposal that is likely to have a significant adverse impact Potential Section 3.5 on the heritage significance of a place or object registered under the Heritage Act 2004, unless – (a) The heritage council produces an environmental significance opinion that the proposal is not likely to have a significant adverse impact.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 14

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 3.1 Electricity Transmission Line Construction

The Project involves the relocation of existing 132kV transmission lines by installing a new underground transmission line and removing the existing steel tower overhead lines. The objectives and detail of the Project are described in Section 2.

The two existing transmission lines currently connect the following:

• the TransGrid Canberra 330/132kV sub-station in Holt to the Woden zone sub-station in Lyons – the Belconnen/Woden line; and

• the Civic zone sub-station (at the base of Black Mountain) to the Woden zone sub-station in Lyons – the Civic/Woden line.

These lines are critical infrastructure that supply power to large areas of Canberra and will support all three stages of the Molonglo development (Calibre 2019). The existing 132kV transmission lines are suspended on large steel lattice towers on the alignment shown in Figure 2.1, and are each located on 40 metre wide easements that converge at the southern end of Molonglo Stage 3, near the southern limit of the National Arboretum.

Approximately 8.4 kilometres of the existing 132kV transmission line (including 29 towers) would be removed and replaced with approximately nine kilometres of underground transmission line. Evoenergy (then ActewAGL Distribution) has been consulted throughout the design process and the new transmission lines will be built to their engineering and safety standards (Calibre 2017).

A detailed feasibility study and concept design report were prepared for the Project. A preliminary stakeholder workshop was held on 12 June 2014 to discuss planning considerations for the Project. Following this, 11 alignment options were developed for internal feasibility assessment by the Project Team. This stage identified six alignment options that were discussed at a second workshop in August 2014, which further refined the shortlist to four options plus the ‘do-nothing’ base option. These five short-listed options were subject to detailed design, cost-benefit-analysis, and triple bottom line analysis.

Since this time the original assessment has been reviewed based on a more accurate estimate of the cost of undergrounding 132kV transmission lines. The review included new rounds of options assessment. The current design for the Project was identified as the preferred option in the triple bottom line assessment (CIE 2018).

Further refinement of the route for the 132kV relocation was triggered in 2018 as the previous route was inconsistent with the newly proposed widening of William Hovell Drive. Hence the Belconnen/Woden line will be located within the existing William Hovell Drive road reserve, south of William Hovell Drive as far as possible. The Project design has been an iterative process that included consultation with key infrastructure providers (e.g. Roads ACT, Evoenergy), urban planners associated with the future development of Molonglo, and ecologists so that impacts to vegetation and future land uses have been minimised as much as possible.

The proposed alignment would maximise the amount of developable land located in the Molonglo Stage 3 area otherwise lost to easements, setbacks, and maintenance tracks. CBRE (2017) valued the available land for each of the shortlisted alignment options. CIE used these values and their own research into land devaluation due to transmission lines to produce a triple bottom line report that indicated the relocation project had more benefits than costs.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 15

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu The effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from underground 132kV transmission lines were assessed by L3D (2014b), and subject to a peer review by GHD (2020). The following are extracts from that report:

A common concern with the operation of transmission assets is the effect of the electromagnetic fields produced by transmission lines and underground cable systems. Any device that produces a voltage and carries electric current will produce electric and magnetic fields. As well as electricity supply network assets, industrial, commercial equipment and household appliances also produce EMF and EMR. Electromagnetic fields are made up of two components – electric fields and magnetic fields. An electric field (kV/m) is produced by the network operating voltage and is not a concern in an underground cable installation because the field is completely contained within the underground cable.

A magnetic field is produced by the flow of electric current and is measured in gauss (G) or teslas (T). The EMR produced by underground cable installation will be greatest directly above the cable circuit, and will diminish as the distance increases away from the circuit. EMR levels will also vary depending on the load currents carried by the underground cable circuit.

The recommended Electromagnetic Radiation Levels (EMR) that the public can be exposed to, based on the Energy Networks Association Ltd (ENA) (NHMRC/ARPANSA) recommendations, are 1,000mG over a 24 hour period and 2,000mG levels for intermittent exposure.

As determined from the EMR levels calculated, residents living adjacent to the underground cable easement would not be exposed to high levels of EMR radiation that exceed the 24 hour exposure level of 1,000mG advised by the Energy Networks Association Ltd (ENA) based on ARPANSA and NHMRC Guidelines.

The maximum EMR exposure level at the edge of the cable easement is only 16% (158.83mG) of the 24 hour exposure level and where people are likely to reside the levels would be significantly lower the further they are away from the cable easement and would possibly be similar to EMR exposure levels found in the domestic environment.

GHD (2020) confirmed that the magnetic fields from the 132 kV cable arrangement would not exceed the 1000 mG or 2000 mG limits at any point above a height of 500 mm above ground level, when the 132 kV circuit is operating in peak, off peak normal or emergency load conditions. Therefore, should the 132 kV underground circuit arrangement be installed as described in this report, the allowable magnetic field limits are not exceeded anywhere within or outside the 132 kV easement.

The requirements and standards of Evoenergy have been considered over the life of this Project to date. The Project has been designed to meet current and predicted future energy needs of Canberra and to fit with Evoenergy’s existing and planned infrastructure.

Constructing the transmission lines underground substantially reduces the impacts associated with the Project; particularly visual and vegetation clearing. The majority of the Project impacts will be temporary, and limited to the construction period. These will be able to be managed through a standard construction environmental management plan (CEMP). Unavoidable and residual impacts to native vegetation and heritage values as a result of the Project are discussed in the following sections.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 16

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 3.2 Clearing of Native Vegetation

The Project will not impact upon any threatened or protected species or ecological communities within Territory Land (outside the Molonglo 3 EIS exemption approval area); however will impact more than 0.5 hectares of vegetation defined as ‘native’ under the Nature Conservation Act 2014 (NC Act) (ACT).

Umwelt (2018) mapped the extent of native vegetation within the Project Area. The vegetation communities affected and the extent of impact is summarised in Table 3.2 below and shown on Figure 3.1.

Table 3.2 Native Vegetation within the Project Area

Vegetation Type Vegetation Description Impact (ha) (Umwelt, 2018)

Plantings – Local Woodland Woodland comprising a planted native canopy 0.2 which includes yellow box and red box. The understorey is predominantly exotic, contains few native understorey non-grass species, and no important species.

Plantings - Mixed Local and Woodland comprising a native canopy which 0.4 Non-local includes yellow box, red box and Blakey’s red gum. The understorey is predominantly exotic and contains few native understorey non-grass species.

Mixed Pasture Mixed native and exotic pasture occurs primarily in 1.2 the blocks north of William Hovell Drive. There is no significant canopy, with a sparse mid-storey of briar rose (Rosa rubiginosa). Understorey is co- dominated by native and exotic species.

Total 1.8

NB: Approximately 25m2 of derived native grassland occurs on the far eastern boundary of the Project Area. Due to its small area and low likelihood of being impacted by the Project, it has not been included in the Table 3.2 above.

The Project will result in two types of impacts to native vegetation:

• Temporary: from trenching works for the new transmission lines. The trenches will be dug, the conduits and lines placed, and the hole back-filled along the length of the proposed new alignment. In these areas the vegetation will be disturbed during the construction phase, however will be re-seeded and rehabilitated post construction with an appropriate groundcover (e.g. native dryland grass mix).

• Permanent: from construction of access roads. These areas have been co-located with existing access tracks and roads wherever possible to minimise impacts to existing vegetation.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 17

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt

Clearing of native vegetation may impact upon local ecological values, and result in impacts to abiotic conditions such as soil and water. The impacts on native vegetation associated with this action are likely to result from:

• Removal of surface vegetation;

• Soil disturbance;

• Introduction of weeds due to construction activities and subsequent operational access; and

• Minor removal of over- and mid-storey vegetation.

It is noted that the over-storey vegetation in the Molonglo Valley is particularly important for habitat connectivity for bird species. The Project has been designed to minimise the number of trees that will be removed from the landscape; furthermore, where trees must be removed, this will be limited to a few individuals per stand. It is therefore not considered likely to affect the connectivity value of the landscape.

The decision to install the lines underground reduces the overall environmental impact of the Project. By underboring in key areas, environmentally sensitive locations are unlikely to be significantly impacted by the Project.

The Project should also be considered in the broader context of the Molonglo Valley urban development. As portions of the Project are to occur on land subject to existing approval conditions (Commonwealth and ACT) construction will be undertaken in line with a CEMP that will govern construction and post- construction rehabilitation and ensure mitigation measures are implemented so that indirect impacts into adjacent native vegetation areas are mitigated.

Mitigation measures for the entire Project will include:

• rehabilitation:

o undertake weed control on any noxious weeds prior to and following respreading of spoil for a set period post-construction (e.g. 12 months);

o respread topsoil and rehabilitate all disturbed areas progressively to minimise the time soil is exposed;

• erosion and sedimentation control:

o strip areas progressively and only where it is necessary for works to occur;

o employ stabilisation methods such as matting, grassing or mulch;

o place stockpiles uphill of open trenches;

• tree protection:

o mark trees for protection prior to construction commencing and install temporary fencing;

o avoid tree protection zones when trenching.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 18

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 686330 687830 INSET °! GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Zone MGA 1994 GDA

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m 1:10000 at A4 0 125 250 500 6093758 Legend c::J S211 Exemption Boundary Underground Transmission Line Alignment Vegetation Community FIGURE 3.1 D Derived Native Grassland Mixed Pasture Native Vegetation in the Project Area Plantings - Local Woodland -Plantings - Mixed Local and Non-Local -Watercourse -Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 3.3 Impacts to Heritage Places or Objects

The Project Area for this exemption application is located entirely within the William Hovell Drive and Coulter Drive road reserves. These areas are not identified as containing Places or Objects on the ACT Heritage Register (ACT Government 2018).

A number of listed heritage sites are located in close proximity of the project area, as listed below.

Table 3.3 Aboriginal Heritage Sites Listed in the Direct Vicinity of the Project Area (Umwelt, 2019)

Site Name Heritage ID Location ID Recorded By

12B2 1172 1998 Bullbeck and Boot 1990

12B4 1172 868 Bullbeck and Boot 1990

12I1 1172 2499 Bullbeck and Boot 1990

BELC 22 1172 1422 Kabalia 1999

BELC 29 1172 2844 Kabalia 1999

CLB7 1162 2823 Knight 2003

The cultural heritage assessment completed for the Project (Umwelt 2019) identified a number of isolated finds within the wider area surrounding the Project Area, however found no constraints within the Project Area itself. No further Aboriginal or historical archaeological work is recommended.

An unanticipated discovery plan has been prepared for use during construction.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Planning and Development Act Triggers 8139b_R01_V6_s211 19

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 4.0 Description of Nature Conservation Values

This section describes the nature conservation values present within the Project Area with consideration of the guidance document for Proponents (EPSDD, 2017). 4.1 Importance of the Project Area for Existing Processes or Natural Systems of the ACT

The Project Area is a thin strip of land traversing the area north of the Molonglo River, the river system that runs through the centre of Canberra; and is within the vicinity of Kama Nature Reserve, Mount Painter Nature Reserve, Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve, and ‘Patch GG’ (an identified offset area for the NES Plan). On a landscape scale these areas are important natural systems in the ACT as they contain substantial ecological values and contribute to landscape connectivity throughout the region.

Notwithstanding the above, the Project Area is in general considerably degraded as a result of historic land use for agriculture, pine plantations, and the construction and operation of William Hovell Drive and the Tuggeranong Parkway.

The remnant native trees within the Project Area provide limited value as habitat for woodland birds as they move through the landscape. The remainder of the Project Area is not considered important in maintaining existing processes and does not contain any significant movement corridors or natural systems. 4.2 Unusual Richness or Diversity of Flora, Fauna, or Landscapes

Historically, much of the Molonglo Valley would have contained a range of woodland communities, including riparian shrubland and Casuarina cunninghamiana (river she-oak) open forest adjacent to the Molonglo River, and potentially natural temperate grassland at lower altitudes. These communities now persist in smaller, disturbed patches; generally interspersed by exotic pastoral grasslands or planted pine (Biosis, 2017).

Due to historic land clearing, only small patches of woodland remain, generally with a non-diverse native understorey; often forming a mosaic with annual or perennial exotic pasture grasses. Most open areas are dominated by Phalaris aquatica (phalaris), although patches dominated by native grasses persist in some areas (Umwelt 2017). Most of the Project Area is covered by exotic vegetation or existing infrastructure (i.e. roads). Areas of mixed vegetation are not considered diverse and do not add value to the floral, faunal, or landscape diversity of the ACT.

It should be noted that areas of high diversity, particularly box gum woodland, that persist in the Molonglo Valley have either been retained in Nature Reserves already, or have been considered as part of the Commonwealth and Territory approvals processes. These areas have generally been avoided, with the highest quality areas included as part of the NES Plan offset strategy. In the broader context of the Molonglo Valley, it is considered that these actions have preserved areas of greatest value to the ecological diversity of the ACT. Given these characteristics, the Project Area is not considered important in exhibiting unusual richness of flora, fauna, or landscapes.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Description of Nature Conservation Values 8139b_R01_V6_s211 20

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 4.3 Uncommon, Rare, or Endangered Flora, Fauna, Communities, Natural Landscapes, or Phenomena

The Molonglo Valley contains a number of threatened fauna species and vegetation communities that are protected at both Commonwealth and Territory levels. Of note, there is extensive habitat for pink-tailed worm-lizard, particularly associated with the Molonglo River corridor; and areas of box gum woodland. As discussed, many of these values have been considered and managed as part of the NES Plan and Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption.

Due to its history of disturbance, the Project Area has minor ecological value. Pink-tailed worm lizard habitat, and box gum woodland (Capital Ecology, 2015) has been identified north of William Hovell Drive, however this is avoided entirely by the alignment. The grassland and grassy woodland vegetation within the Project Area may constitute marginal foraging habitat for little eagle, as does all woodland vegetation in the Molonglo area. The remainder of the Project Area includes exotic or highly disturbed habitat that is not considered to constitute habitat for uncommon, rare, or threatened flora, fauna, or ecological communities. 4.4 Location Important for Demonstrating Principal Characteristics of the Range of Landscapes, Environments, or Ecosystems Identified as Characteristic of their Class

The broader Molonglo Valley is characterised by a sequence of vegetation that transitions from the dry forest and woodland communities on the upper slopes, through to box gum woodland, then natural grasslands on lower elevations, through to riparian shrubland and forests along the Molonglo River corridor. Historic land uses have resulted in expansive areas of pastoral land dissecting these remnant vegetation communities.

The Project Area is not considered important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of any landscapes, environments, or ecosystems. It contains some remnant woodland, however in general, is typical of the agriculturally modified landscape of the ACT and Southern Tablelands.

The more intact areas of native vegetation, which demonstrate the characteristics of the pre-European vegetation communities and landscapes, have been protected and avoided through the Canberra Nature Reserve system (e.g. Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve) and the commitments of the NES Plan (e.g. Molonglo River Corridor and Kama Nature Reserve). The Project Area therefore contributes little to these broader landscape values and vegetation sequences as it consists of areas of lower ecological value. 4.5 Location Importance for Providing an Understanding of the ACT’s Natural History

The Project Area is not considered of any importance for contributing to a wider understanding of the ACT’s natural history. The key areas of ecological and landscape value in the Molonglo Valley, namely the Kama Nature Reserve and the Molonglo River Corridor, are being conserved under the commitments of the NES Plan and Molonglo Stage 3 s211. It is not considered that the Project Area retains any representative natural history values that are not already represented within protected areas.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Description of Nature Conservation Values 8139b_R01_V6_s211 21

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 5.0 Measures to Avoid, Mitigate, and Offset

Substantial work has been undertaken to design the transmission lines to avoid the majority of adverse impacts to the environment and community. By installing all lines underground impacts to land value and visual amenity, and perceived health and safety concerns are ameliorated. The Project is considered to improve visual amenity over the current situation by removing the existing towers and lines.

Impacts to environment and heritage are greatly reduced through the final proposed design. The design phase of the Project has been an iterative process taking into consideration the location of known ecological values and current and future land uses so that potential impacts to the environment and community are avoided.

Measures to mitigate the temporary impacts of construction on the environment are included in the attached Preliminary Risk Assessment (PRA) (Appendix 1) and summarised below:

• Rehabilitation of temporary trenches, including undertaking weed control on any noxious weeds prior to and following respreading of soil and progressively rehabilitate disturbance areas.

• Erosion and sedimentation controls, including: strip areas progressively and only where it is necessary for works to occur, employ stabilisation methods such as matting, grassing or mulch, and place stockpiles uphill of open trench.

• Ensure environment protection areas (especially trees) are marked prior to construction commencing and avoid these areas during construction.

• Construction will be subject to CEMPs that will include the following as a minimum:

o Safeguards for controlling heavy machinery movement so that adjacent habitat areas are avoided;

o Erosion prevention and mitigation measures;

o Weed and disease control measures;

o Relocation of animals found within construction areas; and

o Monitoring and reporting requirements.

• All construction and decommissioning works will be undertaken in accordance with relevant health and safety requirements.

• All construction and decommissioning waste will be appropriately disposed of.

No offsets are required for this Project, as no significant impacts to threatened species or ecological communities would result.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Measures to Avoid, Mitigate, and Offset 8139b_R01_V6_s211 22

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 6.0 Preliminary Risk Assessment

A Preliminary Risk Assessment (PRA) has been prepared and attached as Appendix 1. According to the ‘Preparation of an Application for Scoping and Preparation of an ESO’ guidelines (ACTPLA, undated, p.4), the purpose of a PRA is described below.

Identifying possible impacts requires the consideration of all of the likely activities that will be involved in the construction, operation and decommissioning of the project with further consideration given to all the impacts that these activities could lead to.

Based on this objective, the environmental risks during design, construction, and operation of the proposed transmission lines and the decommissioning of the existing transmissions lines have been identified and assessed. The risk assessment has been prepared identifying both unmitigated and mitigated risks.

The key risks identified in the PRA are as follows:

• Impacts to Molonglo Stage 3 land release program due to delayed construction of critical infrastructure;

• Delays and complications due to the cross-jurisdictional approvals required (EPSDD / NCA);

• Impacts to MNES (particularly box gum woodland and pink-tailed worm lizard);

• Impacts to greater than 0.5 hectares of native vegetation outside of a FUA;

• Risk of bushfire from any construction activities;

• Disruption to existing services; and

• Health and safety risks during installation and decommissioning of transmission lines.

A large proportion of the risks identified are inherent to the design and construction aspects of the Project. These risks can be mitigated through standard management measures, such as the development and implementation of a CEMP.

By undergrounding the transmission lines, a large number of risks are also reduced in severity, as impacts will be restricted to the duration of construction. Following the application of mitigation measures, the following key risks remain:

• Impacts to Molonglo Stage 3 land release program due to delayed construction of critical infrastructure; and

• Impacts to greater than 0.5 hectares of native vegetation outside of a FUA.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Preliminary Risk Assessment 8139b_R01_V6_s211 23

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 7.0 Interaction with Existing Planning Approval Conditions

7.1 Decision under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

On 16 September 2008 the Federal Minister and the ACT Minister for Planning announced that a Strategic Assessment of the Molonglo and North Weston Structure Plan would be undertaken in accordance with Section 146 of the EPBC Act. The decision was amended to include the preparation and strategic assessment of ‘Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance’ (the NES Plan) (ACTPLA, 2011), so as not to unduly constrain the Structure Plan’s implementation.

On 7 October 2011, the Federal Environment Minister endorsed the NES Plan. The endorsement of the NES Plan allowed the Federal Environment Minister to consider giving approval to actions or class of actions that are taken in accordance with the endorsed Plan. On 20 December 2011, the Federal Environment Minister approved actions associated with urban development in East Molonglo as described in the endorsed NES Plan.

The majority of the existing transmission lines, and a large proportion of the proposed alignment occur within the NES Plan area (refer to Figure 2.2). The impact area outside the boundary of the NES Plan has not been subject to assessment or approval under the EPBC Act. 7.2 Decision under the Planning and Development Act 2007

The ACT planning approvals process for the development of Molonglo was separated into the development stages. Molonglo Stage 3 was assessed under the PD Act, based on the extent of information collated as part of the EPBC Act strategic assessment, Molonglo Stage 2 planning processes (i.e. an EIS exemption was approved), and the completion of extensive due diligence assessments. The Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption was approved by the Minister for Planning and Land Management on 8 May 2018.

The Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption included all urban development (including electricity infrastructure) within the boundary shown in Figure 2.2. 7.3 Project’s Consistency with Existing Approval Conditions

The following commitments and/or approval conditions from the above mentioned approvals are relevant to the Project:

• No more than 110 hectares of EPBC Act listed White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland (box-gum woodland) critically endangered ecological community is to be impacted by development of the Molonglo Valley.

• No more than 27 hectares of pink-tailed worm-lizard (Aprasia parapulchella) (a vulnerable reptile) habitat is to be impacted by development of the Molonglo Valley.

• Construction will be subject to CEMPs that will include the following as a minimum:

o Safeguards for controlling heavy machinery movement so that adjacent habitat areas are avoided;

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Interaction with Existing Planning Approval Conditions 8139b_R01_V6_s211 24

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt

o Erosion prevention and mitigation measures;

o Weed and disease control measures;

o Relocation of animals found within construction areas; and

o Monitoring and reporting requirements.

• A buffer outside of Kama Nature Reserve will be established to protect the ecological values within the reserve. Specifically, this buffer will be between the proposed development area and Kama Nature Reserve and will allow for appropriate uses consistent with nature conservation for the reserve.

The Project has been designed to minimise impacts to box-gum woodland and pink-tailed worm-lizard where possible. Any residual impacts to box-gum woodland and pink-tailed worm-lizard within the Molonglo Stage 3 FUA will be appropriately reported and included as part of the maximum extent of the impacts.

The Project will be managed by a CEMP that will be consistent with the controls identified above.

Part of the proposed new transmission lines will be installed within the Kama Nature Reserve Buffer. This is required to connect with the existing overhead lines within the Kama Nature Reserve; and is consistent with the key objective of the Project to minimise impacts to the Molonglo Stage 3 development as whole.

Impacts as a result of the Project in the Kama Buffer include temporary impacts associated with the installation of new conduits and cables and the permanent impacts associated with a dirt access road and any new towers. The risks to the ecological values of the Kama Nature Reserve associated with weed incursion and other construction impacts would be mitigated by the CEMP.

The proposed alignment through the Kama Buffer has been determined in consultation with the Parks and Conservation Service.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Interaction with Existing Planning Approval Conditions 8139b_R01_V6_s211 25

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 8.0 Additional Information Required

8.1 Currency of Supporting Documentation

An EIS exemption application requires the following verification for source documents:

• details of qualifications, expertise and experience of the person(s) who conducted previous studies supporting the application; and

• verification from a qualified person that the information in the previous studies supporting the application is still current.

All primary sources cited in this exemption application and used as the basis for the attached PRA are listed in the references section of this report.

Section 50A of the Planning and Development Regulation 2008 (PD Regulation) prescribes the criteria for a development application exemption from EIS with reference to Section 211 of the PD Act as follows:

The following criteria are prescribed:

a) whether the study was conducted by an appropriately qualified person with relevant expertise and experience in relation to the environmental values of the land in the proposal;

b) if the study does not relate directly to the proposal—whether there is sufficient detail to allow assessment of the environmental impacts likely to occur if the proposal proceeds;

c) whether the part of the study relevant to the proposal required public consultation through a statutory process or as part of a government policy development;

d) that the study is not more than 5 years old;

e) if the study is more than 18 months old—that an appropriately qualified person with no current professional relationship with the proponent verifies that the information in the study is current.

The following primary sources (Table 8.1) were utilised by Umwelt for the assessment of the Project.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Additional Information Required 8139b_R01_V6_s211 26

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!JJ,. .J dmwelt

Table 8.1 Information Sources Utilised Criteria Report ✓ meets criteria Source Principal Author (s) - criteria not applicable Verified as Current Age X does not meet criteria A B C D E Centre for 12 The author and reviewer are considered to be X - - ✓ - N/A. Less than 18 months International months appropriately qualified and experienced. old. Economics (CIE) (2018) Author: Cost benefit analysis of proposed major Ben McNair, Principal Economist electrical No qualifications provided, however has 15 years’ infrastructure experience applying economic analysis to the energy and relocation: Molonglo 3 water industries. Prior to joining The CIE in 2016, Ben was in the Molonglo Valley Principal Economist at ActewAGL Distribution (now ACT Evoenergy). Reviewer: David Pearce, Executive Director No qualifications provided, however has over 30 years’ experience in a wide variety of economic analysis, including cost-benefit analysis in the utilities sector.

CBRE (2017) 2 years The author is considered to be appropriately qualified and ✓ - - ✓ - N/A. Less than 18 months Consultancy Report: experienced. old at the time of impact Proposed Major assessment. Now provides Author/Reviewer: Electrical an assessment relevant for Infrastructure Timothy Heaton the point in time at which Relocation Molonglo 3 Tertiary qualifications not provided. it was prepared. Certified Practicing Valuer, Australian Property Institute.

L3D (2014b) Molonglo 5 years The author is considered to be appropriately qualified and ✓ - - ✓ - Peer review for accuracy 3 132kV Transmission experienced. and currency provided by

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Criteria Report ✓ meets criteria Source Principal Author (s) - criteria not applicable Verified as Current Age X does not meet criteria A B C D E Line Relocations Author/Reviewer: GHD in 2020. Options Study: As above. Completed by Martyn Assessment of the Costello, Technical Director Electro Magnetic Field – Electrical, who is (EMF) Profile Adjacent appropriately qualified to to the Proposed undertake this review. ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Transmission Line and Underground Cable Assets

Umwelt (2018) 18 The author is considered to be appropriately qualified and ✓ - - ✓ - N/A. Less than 18 months Ecological Assessment months experienced. old. Molonglo Stage 3 Author/Reviewer: 132kV Transmission Line Relocation, Draft David Moore, Principal Ecologist Report (August 2018) • Master of Environmental Management and Development • Bachelor of Science (1st Class Honours), The Australian National University • Accredited BAM Assessor • Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP) 10 years’ experience in ecological assessments, biodiversity offsetting, strategic environmental planning and ecological management advice.

Umwelt (2019) <12 The author and reviewer are considered to be ✓ - - ✓ - N/A. Less than 18 months Cultural Heritage months appropriately qualified and experienced. old.

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Criteria Report ✓ meets criteria Source Principal Author (s) - criteria not applicable Verified as Current Age X does not meet criteria A B C D E Assessment Molonglo Author: Stage 3 132kV Ashley O’Sullivan, Senior Archaeologist Transmission Line Relocation, Draft • Bachelor of Arts (Hons) – Archaeology and Report (April 2019) Anthropology • Native Title for Anthropologists 7 years’ experience in cultural heritage management and archaeology. Reviewer: Nicola Roche, Manager – Cultural Heritage • Bachelor of Anthropology (First Grade Honours) 13 years’ experience in Aboriginal cultural heritage and archaeological assessment, development and implementation of archaeological salvage and monitoring programs, and provision of expert advice.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Additional Information Required 8139b_R01_V6_s211 29

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 8.2 Consultation

There has not been any public consultation undertaken specifically for this Project, noting however, that the relocation of the transmission lines was included in the Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption which was publicly notified.

Consultation with the following key stakeholders has been undertaken during the planning and design phase of the Project:

• Evoenergy;

• National Capital Authority;

• ACT Heritage Council;

• ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate;

• Suburban Land Agency;

• Roads ACT; and

• Icon Water.

This supporting documentation will also be supplied to relevant stakeholders for comment during assessment, and made publicly available for comment.

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au _!!Ji. J Gmwelt 9.0 Conclusion

As outlined in this exemption application, the Project is for the relocation of existing overhead 132kV transmission lines and the Molonglo zone sub- that are currently located within the Molonglo Valley in the ACT (Figure 2.1). The proposed construction of the 132kV transmission lines along the new alignment is required to allow for the planned future urban development of Molonglo Stage 3. Subsequent to the proposed construction, the existing overhead transmission lines will be decommissioned.

The proposed new alignment was subject to a detailed feasibility study, which assessed a number of options in a triple bottom line assessment. This assessment included infrastructure requirements, access, land value, environmental and heritage considerations and potential electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Since that time Calibre have undertaken further options analysis and have identified entirely underground cabling as being the preferred option. This substantially reduces the impacts associated with the project, particularly visual, vegetation clearing, and perceived health and safety issues. It is considered that the majority of the project impacts will be restricted to the construction period, and will be able to be managed through standard construction management plans.

An ecological assessment has been completed which has mapped in detail the ecological conditions of the project area. No threatened species or ecological communities would be impacted by the works.

No further Impact Track triggers apply to the project area.

It is considered that sufficient information is available to make a determination of the project’s impacts, without the requirement for an EIS.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation Conclusion 8139b_R01_V6_s211 31

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au dt -,, Gmweu 10.0 References

ACT Government (2018) ACTmapi, accessed online (July 2018): http://www.actmapi.act.gov.au/.

ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA) (2011) Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance (NES Plan), ACT Government, Canberra.

Arup (2015) Molonglo 3 Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation Feasibility Study: Input to Options Assessment, Appendix D in Calibre (2015), prepared for Brown Consulting, Canberra.

Capital Ecology (2015) William Hovell Drive Investigation Area – Pink-tailed Worm-lizard Survey and Habitat Mapping, briefing note to Infrastructure Planning and Design, Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra.

Calibre Consulting (2015) Molonglo 3 Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation: Concept Design Report, unpublished report prepared for the ACT Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate, Canberra.

Calibre Consulting (2019) PSP Report Molonglo 3 Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation – Stage 2, prepared for ACT Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate, Canberra.

CBRE (2017) Consultancy Report: Proposed Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation Molonglo 3, prepared for Calibre Consulting, Canberra.

Centre for International Economics (CIE) (2018) Cost benefit analysis of proposed major electrical infrastructure relocation: Molonglo 3 in the Molonglo Valley, ACT, prepared for Calibre Consulting, Canberra.

ELA (2013) Molonglo Valley Vegetation Survey: Baseline Condition Assessment, prepared for Design & Development, Territory and Municipal Services Directorate, Canberra.

Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) (2017) Proponent’s Guide to Environmental Impact Statement Exemptions, ACT Government, Canberra.

GHD (2020) Molonglo 132kV Line EMF Review – Peer Review, prepared for Calibre Consulting, Canberra.

L3D (2014a) Molonglo 3 Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation Feasibility Study, Appendix B in Calibre (2015), prepared for Brown Consulting, Canberra.

L3D (2014b) Molonglo 3 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study: Assessment of the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Transmission Line and Underground Cable Assets, Appendix K in L3D (2014a), prepared for Bowen Consulting, Canberra.

Umwelt (2017) Molonglo Stage 3 s211 Application Supporting Documentation, prepared for the Land Development Project Group, ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, Canberra.

Umwelt (2018) Ecological Assessment Molonglo Stage 3 132kV Transmission Line Relocation (August, 2018), prepared for Calibre Group, Canberra.

Umwelt (2019) Re-Location of 132kV Transmission Lines, Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area: Supporting Documentation Cultural Heritage Assessment(April, 2019), prepared for Calibre Group, Canberra.

Molonglo 132kv Transmission Lines Relocation References 8139b_R01_V6_s211 32

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

APPENDIX 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au CONSEQUENCE Insignificant (F) Minor (I) Moderate (D) Major (J) Catastrophic / Significant (S) Negligible complaints or Public concern limited to local Local public or media Attention from media or Adverse national media or concerns complaints attention and complaints heightened concern from public attention community Community People largely unaffected Temporary and localised Widespread and temporary, Widespread and temporary, Entire villages, communities Consequence effects on peoples livelihoods or, localised and permanent or, localised and permanent or groups are displaced and Descriptions effects on peoples livelihoods effects on livelihood and/or livelihoods are affected displacement of people

Impacts such as localised or Onsite release with minor Onsite release and some Resulting in off-site release Resulting in permanent offsite short term effects on habitat, environmental impacts. detrimental effects. and some detrimental effects. detrimental effect. species or environmental Environmental attributes. Consequence Negligible environmental Localised, long term Localised and irreversible Widespread and persistent Loss of a significant portion of Descriptions impacts degradation of sensitive habitat damage or loss of changes to habitat, individual a valued species or loss of habitat, species or habitat, species or species or environmental effective ecosystem function environmental attributes. environmental attributes. attributes. on a widespread scale.

Risk matrix and criteria for Likelihood and Consequence is derived from: ACTPLA (undated) No detectable change Some minor detectable Change requiring basic Change resulting in medical Significant / life threatening Preparation of an application for scoping; Preparation of an application for an change treatment or medical attention treatment and hospitalisation change Health /Safety Environmental Significance Opinion, A guide Consequence No Injuries First Aid treatment Medical treatment, lost time Extensive injuries, plant Multiple deaths or deaths, Descriptions Online: injuries, plant damage damage permanent significant injury http://www.actpla.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/21617/Application_for_scopin g.pdf Minimal losses Several thousand dollars lost Half million dollars in lost One million dollars in lost Several million dollars in lost Economic revenue or remediation costs revenue or remediation costs revenue or remediation costs revenue or remediation costs

CONSEQUENCE LIKELIHOOD Insignificant (F) Minor (I) Moderate (D) Major (J) Catastrophic / Significant (S) Remote (R) Extremely rare or previously unknown to occur Remote (R) Negligible (N) Negligible (N) Very Low (L) Low (W) Medium (M) Unlikely (U) Unlikely to occur during the Project Unlikely (U) Negligible (N) Very Low (L) Low (W) Medium (M) High (H) Possible (P) Possible under exceptional circumstances Possible (P) Very Low (L) Low (W) Medium (M) High (H) Very High (V) Likely (L) May occur during the Project or beyond the Project Likely (L) Low (W) Medium (M) High (H) Very High (V) Extreme (E) LIKELIHOOD Almost Certain (C) Expected to occur during the Project or beyond the Project Almost Certain (C) Medium (M) High (H) Very High (V) Extreme (E) Extreme (E)

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 132kV Lines PRA - Design Phase of Activity Effects Mitigation/Management Measures Development Without the application of mitigation or management measures Category Risk of Likelihood Consequence Rating Risk Approvals Approvals Delays in approval decisions result in financial - Commence planning and approvals processes early. implications for the ACT Government and - Have realistic expectations of potential delays / length of time required for approvals to be appropriately considered and decisions delays in the land release program as the made. Financial P J H infrastructure construction is not able to be - Undertake due diligence studies prior to commencing approvals processes to minimise scoping document requirements. commenced in a timely manner.

Design timeframes are not met due to - Engage in consultation with the NCA and EPSDD early, to ensure the alignment and sub-station are sited in a location suitable to all complications with consultation with the NCA parties, and that the appropriate approvals pathway is taken. and EPSDD regarding the siting of a Project that - Consider all planning requirements during the design and approvals stage and undertake works concurrently as much as possible. crosses multiple planning jurisdictions. Service Delivery P I W Particularly in relation to the location of the sub- station and access roads.

Risks are not adequately identified, resulting in - Use the most up to date information to inform the preliminary risk assessment (completed). an incomplete understanding of environmental Environmental U D W constraints. Design Design Development The transmission lines will need to be overhead - Consider constraints, costs, and benefits of all alignment options early in the design process (completed). rather than underground due to a constraint Infrastructure/ - Choose an alignment where impacts are minimised (completed). R J W not being appropriately considered during the Engineering design stage. The alignment results in significant impacts to - Use the most up to date information available when designing the Project, inculding the consideration of known or portential MNES MNES without approval from the within the vicinity of the Project Area (completed). Commonwealth Minister for the Environment Various P J H - Undertake ecological survey along the entire alignment, targeting the identification of MNES and their habitat in accordance with and Energy. appropriate guidelines to improve the likelihood of MNES identification (completed). - Avoid known MNES and their habitat during the design phase (completed). The Project results in impacts to NC Act - Use the most recent, robust survey information available to inform the EIS Exemption Application (completed). protected species and communities not - Use an iterative approach to design so that information gathered as part of the EIS Exemption Appilcation process can inform the considered in this EIS Exemption Application. Ecological U D W design (completed). - Take a precautionary approach in design by considering the largest possible Project footprint, incorporate buffers and other design mechanisms to avoid protected species and communities, and use a 'likelihood of occurrence' approach to assessing likely impacts to protected matters. The Project results in the loss of greater than - Avoid impacts to native vegetation where possible (completed). 0.5 hectares of native vegetation. Ecological C I H - Consider impacts to native vegetation in the EIS Exemption Application (completed), using a precautionary approach regarding the extent of impacts (completed). The Project results in impacts to heritage - Ensure appropriate heritage assessments are completed for the Project Area. values. - Consult with the ACT Heritage Council regarding the location and ongoing management of known sites within the surrounding area. - Develop an unanticipated discovery plan for implementation during construction. Environmental U D W - Consult with RAOs to determine if any areas of Aboriginal cultural significance occur and are likely to be impacted by the Project. - Avoid any places of known heritage value.

The proposed 132kV lines are not correctly - Consider existing and future demand when designing the proposed 132kV lines (completed). designed to cope with the demand or to Infrastructure/ - Consider and incorporate the existing infrastructure when designing the proposed 132kV lines, particularly where the proposed line is U J M integrate with the existing infrastructure. Engineering to connect to the existing infrastructure (completed). - Ensure that access and maintenance requirements are incorporated into the design (completed). Electromagnetic radiation levels are not - Include an assessment of electromagnetic radiation risks associated with various alignment options (completed). appropriately assessed during the design phase - Consider the risk of electromagnetic radiation during the design phase and when deciding upon the final preferred alignment resulting in a sub-standard design that poses a Community U J M (completed). risk to the health and safety of the public. - Adhere to existing planning constraints that minimise the risk to the public of electromagnetic radiation.

The community is not satisfied with the design - Include consultation with relevant community stakeholders. of the connection between the proposed new - Consider visual impacts of the connections during the design phase (completed). transmission lines and existing transmission Community L F W lines.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Development Phase of Site Investigations Activity result. inappropriate design concepts developed asa construction activities identified not and Subsurface conditions that mayimpact PD Act approval. removal etc. resulting in non-compliance with weedcompaction, introduction, vegetation adjacentof (unapproved) areas through soil during site investigations results in degradation Uncontrolled accessvehicles of and personnel requirements are considered. not timeframe because all likely costs and The exceeds Project its budget and delivery infrastructure. The disrupts Project existing services and causes trafficdisruption and delays. The proposed crossing William of Drive Hovell use the of land. activities, hindering future development and lines limits future land uses and management theThe of location proposed new transmission management measures Without the application mitigation of or Effects Infrastructure/ Environmental Engineering Community Community Financial Location Authorised Category of Risk by the ACT Parliamentary U U U P P P Likelihood Counsel—also D D D D D J Consequence W W M M M M Risk Rating accessible assessments into project planning decisions. - Undertake contamination and geotechnical investigations and incorporate recommendations contamination of and geotechnical - Incorporate understanding the of geology and its effects construction, on costs,and timing into the options analysis. - Ensure contractorsimplement an environmental management plan intrusive for site. on works allany constraints- Inform contractorsof associated with the site and the approval conditions that must be complied with. - Include lifetime costs and requirements in the options analysis (completed). - Consider end users when planning the staging the particularly of Project, when scheduling any shut-down requirements. - Consider existing infrastructure capabilities when designing the proposed lines 132kV (completed). - Consider traffic disruptions when planning the construction staging. the- Locate crossings in existing underpasses, reducing impacts trafficand on damage pavement to (completed). (completed). - Consider the implications future of access land to (including adjacent land) asaresult the the of of location transmission lines (completed). - Consider surrounding land uses and potential future uses land of when deciding upon the final preferred alignment option Mitigation/Management Measures at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 132kV Lines PRA - Construction Phase of Activity Effects Mitigation / Management Measures development Without the application of mitigation or management measures Category Risk of Likelihood Consequence Rating Risk Construction Vegetation and Clearing vegetation outside approved - Establish no-go zones, site boundaries, and fences prior to construction commencing to prevent unauthorised access into adjacent Habitat Clearing disturbance area results in non-compliance with areas. PD Act approval. Service Delivery P D M - Develop and implement a CEMP that identifies clearing limits. - Ensure all contractors are informed of the boundary and relevant approval conditions prior to construction commencing.

Clearing vegetation outside approved - Establish no-go zones, site boundaries, and fences prior to construction commencing to prevent unauthorised access into adjacent disturbance area results in removal of avoided areas. trees. Environmental P I W - Develop and implement a CEMP that identifies clearing limits. - Ensure all contractors are informed of the boundary and relevant approval conditions prior to construction commencing.

Existing environment is degraded by clearing - Implement a CEMP, including weed control, erosion and sediment control as required. associated with trenching activities. Ecological P D M - Reseed impacted areas once construct activities are complete as appropriate.

Site Access and Uncontrolled access by vehicles leads to - Establish no-go zones, site boundaries, and fences prior to construction commencing to prevent unauthorised access into adjacent Management dispersal of litter and other pollutants, damage areas. to habitat in sensitive areas or areas to be Environmental U D W - Develop and implement a CEMP that identifies clearing limits. retained, soil compaction, and spread of weeds. - Ensure all contractors are informed of the boundary and relevant approval conditions prior to construction commencing.

General Construction Temporary construction areas are not - Undertake weed control on any noxious weeds prior to and following respreading of soil. Activities appropriately rehabilitated following - Respread topsoil and rehabilitate areas progressively alogn the alignment. installation of the conduits and cables, resulting Ecological L I M in increased indirect impacts to adjacent vegetation areas. Discovery of previously unidentified - Implement the recommendations of Phase 1 contamination assessment conducted prior to construction commencing. contaminated soil during construction results in - Develop and implement an Unexpected Finds Protocol for all earthworks and construction activities on site, including training delays to program, increased costs due to Service Delivery U D W personnel in the procedure. remediation, or health and safety concerns.

Earthworks result in the destruction of - Implement the recommendations of heritage assessments. previously unidentified Aboriginal or European Community P D M - Develop and implement an Unanticipated Discovery Plan during clearing and construction activities, including training personnel in the cultural heritage items. procedure. Construction activities result in impacts to air - Develop and implement a CEMP that includes an air quality and dust management plan. quality (vehicle emissions, dust, etc.), reducing - Identify sensitive receivers. local amenity, potentially resulting in non- Environmental P I W - Conduct construction activities in accordance with Environment Protection Authority's requirements. compliance with the EP Act. - Maintain plant and equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and best practice.

Sparks from machinery during construction may - Implement an approved bushfire hazard management plan during construction. catch on dry grass and have the potential to Various U S H - Maintain plant and equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and best practice. start a bushfire. - Ensure fire fighting equipment is available and staff are trained in the appropriate use of equipment. Fuel or chemical spills or inappropriate material - Develop and implement a CEMP that includes a waste management plan, including storage and stockpiling of raw materials, transport storage contaminates soil, ground water, of materials to site, and disposal of materials. and/or local waterways, which could result in Various P D M - Develop a spill management protocol and include in the site inductions. fines under the EP Act and damage to nearby ecosystems. Construction activities disrupt existing services - Schedule all necessary disruptions during low demand times and at a time when the disruption will be as quick as possible. and infrastructure, particularly electricity Infrastructure/ - Notify potentially affected premises within a suitable timeframe. P J H supply. Engineering - Identify and implement alternative service networks, if available and practical.

Construction activities disrupt recreational - Limit disturbed areas and disturbance time. amenity and access into Mount Painter Nature Community P D M - Identify alternative walking/cycling routes throughout the disturbance period. Reserve. - Ensure noise works are conducted in accordance with the EPA's restrictions. Construction activities disrupt access and use of - Consult with the lessee prior to construction commencing. the leased land north of William Hovell Drive. Community L I M - Limit disturbed areas and disturbance time. - Ensure noise works are conducted in accordance with the EPA's restrictions.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Health and Safety The installation of existing powerlines poses a - Implement all relevant health and safety measures across the work site. risk to the health and safety of the people - Ensure all staff are inducted and appropriately trained and experienced for the work they are required to complete. undertaking the work. - Nominate a person to be responsible for oversight of all health and safety measures and of implementation of actions. Community P J H - Ensure all equipment is maintained in working order and used per manufacturers guidelines. - Ensure the site is not accessible to the public or any unauthorised personnel. - Provide access to first aid and medical treatment in the event of an incident. Compliance Construction activities result in environmental -Undertake works in accordance with relevant approvals and CEMP. impacts that are not reported or otherwise - Ensure the CEMP has provisions for compliance, reporting, and auditing. Environmental U D W acted upon adequately. - Incorporate relevant approval restrictions into the site induction process.

CEMPs, including monitoring and auditing - Require, as a condition of consent, that contractors appoint an independent third party to conduct audits on environmental approvals requirements, are not implemented effectively and performance against criteria identified in the CEMP. leading to various environmental, social, and Various U D W economic impacts.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 132kV Lines PRA - Operation Phase of Activity Effects Mitigation / Management Measures development Without the application of mitigation or management measures Category Risk of Likelihood Consequence Rating Risk Operational Functionality of the New 132kV lines do not cope with the demand - Conduct regular maintenance and checks on the transmission lines and sub-station. Infrastructure/ transmission lines or or integrate with the existing infrastructure. U J M - Monitor the demand and use of the transmission lines and sub-station within the context of the broader ACT power network. Engineering the sub-station Public health and Electromagnetic Radiation levels exceed those - Operate transmission in accordance with relevant standards and guidelines. safety expected, resulting in a risk to the health and Community U D W - Conduct regular maintenance and checks on the transmission lines and sub-station. safety of the public. Inadvertent unearthing/cutting of underground -Construct and operate transmission in accordance with relevant standards and guidelines. powerlines during maintenance or future - Ensure location of new transmission lines are lodged with the appropriate agency (i.e. EvoEnergy) so that they are identified as a Community U J M development results in a safety risk to workers. constraint for future works. - Install warning signage along easement. Maintenance Maintenance is not completed effectively or - Ensure all scheduled maintenance activities are completed on time by a suitably qualified professional. appropriately over the life of the transmission - Conduct maintenance activities on a regular basis so that any issues may be identified and rectified early. lines, resulting in increased costs (e.g. Various U J M - Conduct regular checks on the output and efficacy of the transmission lines to identify early if any unexpected changes to capacity remediation) and/or the system not operating occur. efficiently or as designed.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 132kV Lines PRA - Decommissioning Phase of Activity Effects Mitigation / Management Measures development Without the application of mitigation or management measures Category Risk of Likelihood Consequence Rating Risk Decommissioning General Uncontrolled access by vehicles leads to - Establish no-go zones, site boundaries, and fences prior to decommissioning commencing to prevent unauthorised access into Decommissioning dispersal of litter and other pollutants, damage adjacent areas. to habitat in sensitive areas or areas to be - Prepare and implement an access management plan to manage decommissioning activities and assign responsibilities for retained, soil compaction, and spread of weeds. Environmental P D M environmental management and monitoring. - Ensure all contractors are informed of the boundary and relevant approval conditions prior to decommissioning commencing.

Decommissioning requires additional - Undertake works within the existing easement as far as practicable. vegetation clearing and/or impact that was not - Prepare and implement a management plan for decommissioning activities that includes avoidance and measures to minimise anticipated during the design and planning Environmental P D M environmental risks (e.g. sedimentation, erosion, weeds, storm water runoff etc.). phase of the Project. - Ensure all disturbance areas are appropriately remediated in a timely manner.

Earthworks result in the destruction of - Implement the Unanticipated Discovery Plan during decommissioning works. previously unidentified Aboriginal or European Community R D L cultural heritage items. Decommissioning activities result in amenity, - Identify sensitive receivers. noise and vibration impacts, reducing local - Conduct decommissioning activities in accordance with Environment Protection Authority's requirements. amenity, potentially resulting in non- Environmental P D M compliance with the EP Act.

Decommissioning activities disrupt recreational - Limit disturbed areas and disturbance time. amenity and access (e.g. into nearby Nature Community P D M - Identify alternative walking/cycling routes throughout the disturbance period. Reserves). - Ensure noise works are conducted in accordance with the EPA's restrictions. Sparks from machinery may catch on dry grass - Implement an approved bushfire hazard management plan during decommissioning. and have the potential to start a bushfire. - Maintain plant and equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and best practice. Various U S H - Ensure fire fighting equipment is available and staff are trained in the appropriate use of equipment.

Electricity Supply Electricity supply is disrupted whilst lines are - Schedule all necessary disruptions during low demand times and at a time when the disruption will be as quick as possible. decommissioned. Infrastructure/ - Notify potentially affected premises within a suitable timeframe. U J M Engineering - Identify and implement alternative service networks, if available and practical.

Disposal of Waste The decommissioned lines are not disposed of - Identify the appropriate method of disposal for decommissioned lines and associated infrastructure, including recycling of appropriately. Various P D M components where possible. Health and Safety Discovery of previously unidentified - Implement the Unexpected Finds Protocol for all earthworks and construction activities on site, including training personnel in the contaminated soil during decommissioning procedure. results in delays to program, increased costs Service Delivery U D W due to remediation, or health and safety concerns.

Fuel or chemical spills, or inappropriate - Develop a spill management protocol and include in the site inductions. material storage contaminates soil, ground water and/or local waterways, which could result in fines under the EP Act and damage to Environmental P D M nearby ecosystems.

The decommissioning of existing powerlines - Implement all relevant health and safety measures across the work site. poses a risk to the health and safety of the - Ensure all staff are inducted and appropriately trained and experienced for the work they are required to complete. people undertaking the work. - Nominate a person to be responsible for oversight of all health and safety measures and of implementation of actions. Community P J H - Ensure all equipment is maintained in working order and used per manufacturers guidelines. - Ensure the site is not accessible to the public or any unauthorised personnel. - Provide access to first aid and medical treatment in the event of an incident.

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Newcastle Perth Canberra Sydney Brisbane

75 York Street PO Box 783 PO Box 6135 50 York Street Level 11 Teralba NSW 2284 West Perth WA 6872 56 Bluebell Street Sydney NSW 2000 500 Queen Street First Floor O’Connor ACT 2602 Brisbane QLD 4000 7 Havelock Street West Perth WA 6005

Ph. 02 4950 5322 Ph. 1300 793 267 Ph. 02 6262 9484 Ph. 1300 793 267 Ph. 1300 793 267 www.umwelt.com.au

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cat :11d

07 February, 2020

Tara Lockwood Our ref: 12524019-93467 Your ref: Project Manager Calibre Consulting (NSW) Pty Ltd Level 6, 121 Marcus Clarke Street Canberra City ACT 2601

Dear Tara,

Molonglo 132 kV Line EMF Review Peer Review This letter provides a summary of the peer review process undertaken by GHD of the following document:

[1] Molonglo 3 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study Assessment of the Electo Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Underground Cable Installations (Revision 2.0A) In accordance with our letter to Calibre Consulting on 8th January 2020, the following aspects of the report are noted:

 Text describing nature and effects of EMF and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) is accurate

 A review of applicable standards and legislation determined: o All aspects of [1] are correct, with exception to the statement that Australian industry follows the NHMRC (1989) interim guidelines for 50/60 Hz electric and magnetic fields, which uses a limit of 1000 mG for public exposure to fields. Current practice by ARPANSA (the regulatory authority) is adoption of the ICNIRP (2010) guidelines for limits on electric and magnetic fields from 1 Hz to 100 kHz, which uses a limit of 2000 mG for public exposure to fields. Therefore, the ultimate limit for compliance in [1] is more conservative than current practice.

 Typical EMR values for household appliances are in accordance with current literature (as specified in ENA EMF Handbook)

 A technical review of EMR calculations determined: The simulated results specified in section 5 of [1] appear accurate, although [1] does not specify what elevation the calculation of EMR has been completed in. GHD’s simulation of the 132 kV underground cable arrangement using the same parameters described in [1] produced magnetic field values approximately the same as the values specified in [1] when completing the calculation at an elevation of 0.5 m above ground.

GHD pty Ltd ABN 39 008 488 373 Level 15 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney New South Wales 2000 Australia T +61 2 9239 7100 F +61 2 9475 0725 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

Typical practice is to complete calculation/measurement of EMR at 1 m above ground, where the magnitude of EMR reduces to approximately 66% of its peak value. Consequently: . The magnetic fields from the 132 kV cable arrangement do not exceed the 1000 mG or 2000 mG limits at any point above a height of 500 mm above ground level, when the 132 kV circuit is operating in emergency load conditions. . Considering emergency load conditions are the most onerous emitting condition for EMR, the magnetic fields from the 132 kV cable arrangement do not exceed the 1000 mG or 2000 mG limits at any point above a height of 500 mm above ground level, when the 132 kV circuit is operating in peak or off peak normal load conditions. Therefore, should the 132 kV underground circuit arrangement be installed as described in [1], the allowable magnetic field limits are not exceeded anywhere within or outside the 132 kV easement, during any of the operating conditions specified in [1].

Sincerely GHD

Martyn Costello Technical Director - Electrical +61 2 92397304

12524019/12524019 Molonglo 132 kV Line EMF Assessment Peer 2 Review.docx

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:

r· r~w1~n_ ~ @&~D@[j[] Neil Rendell ABN 45 678 101 976 NSW Level 3 Accredited Mobile 0413 153 031 Service Provider No. 3750 [email protected] www.L3D.com.au

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 3 - 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study Assessment of the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Underground Cable Installations

Document History and Status

Revn Date Prepared Approved Description 1.0 25/06/2014 R Jarman N Rendell Initial Issue

2.0A 13/07/2014 R Jarman N Rendell Report Revised

Distribution of Copies

Revn Date. Copy No Delivery Issued to 1.0 25/06/2014 1 Email Brown Consulting 2.0A 15/07/2014 1 Email Brown Consulting

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 3 - 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study Assessment of the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Underground Cable Installations

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2. ACTEWAGL DISTRIBUTION (AAD) 132KV TRANSMISSION NETWORK ...... 1 3. ELECTRO MAGNETIC FIELDS (EMF) AND RADIATION (EMR) ...... 2

3.1. REGULATION ...... 4

3.2. TYPICAL EMR VALUES FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES ...... 4

4. 132KV UNDERGROUND CABLE ARRANGEMENT ...... 4 5. 132KV UNDERGROUND CABLE ELECTRO MAGNETIC RADIATION ANALYSIS ...... 6 6. CONCLUSIONS AND DISCUSSION ...... 11 7. REFERENCES ...... 12

Appendix ActewAGL Distribution - Transmission Network Diagram.

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1. Introduction

The Land Development, Strategy and Finance Branch of the Economic Development Directorate (EDD) has initiated a feasibility study with the objective of investigating options for the relocation of existing 132kV overhead transmission lines through or around the Molonglo 3 development and to determine a preferred option. In this regard, EDD has engaged Brown Consulting to perform this feasibility options study with the submission of a concept design report that includes the options considered. The study comprises a range of options that includes: i. Leaving the existing 132kV steel towers transmission lines in their present location. ii. Relocation of the 132kV overhead lines to route locations that minimise the impact on the development of Molonglo 3. iii. Relocation of the 132kV overhead lines to an underground cable installation along route locations that minimise the impact on the development of Molonglo 3. iv. Relocation of the 132kV overhead lines to a combination of overhead line and underground cable installations. Relocations will be subject to ActewAGL Distribution (AAD) transmission line standards and approvals. As the transmission lines form part of the transmission network supplying the NSW south coast approvals will also be required from TransGrid and the Australian Energy Management Operator (AEMO).

2. ActewAGL Distribution (AAD) 132kV Transmission Network

AAD’s 132kV transmission network is supplied from the TransGrid 330/132kV Canberra and Williamsdale Substations. Refer 132kV Network Diagram – Appendix 1 The AAD 132kV transmission lines impacting of the Molonglo 3 development are the following circuits: i. TransGrid Canberra Transmission Substation – Woden Zone Substation ii. Civic Zone Substation - Woden Zone Substation iii. In addition, AAD plan to develop the Molonglo 132/11kV Zone substation in the near future, which will be connected into the Civic Zone Substation - Woden Zone Substation transmission line.

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 3 - 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study Assessment of the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Underground Cable Installations

From the conduct of previous studies, AAD advised that the rated capacity of the 132kV transmission lines is defined in the following Table:

132kV Subtransmission Line Current Rating (Amps) Summer Day Winter Day Continuous Emergency Continuous Emergency 1950A 2960A 2540A 3320A

3. Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF) and Radiation (EMR)

A common concern with the operation of transmission assets is the effect of the electromagnetic fields produced by transmission lines and underground cable systems. Any device that produces a voltage and carries electric current will produce electric and magnetic fields. As well as electricity supply network assets, EMF and EMR are also produced by industrial, commercial equipment and household appliances. Electromagnetic fields are made up of two components – electric fields and magnetic fields. An electric field (kV/m) is produced by the network operating voltage and is not a concern in an underground cable installation because the field is completely contained within the underground cable. A magnetic field is produced by the flow of electric current and is measured in gauss (G) or teslas (T). The EMR produced by underground cable installation will be greatest directly above the cable circuit, and will diminish as the distance increases away from the circuit. EMR levels will also vary depending on the load currents carried by the underground cable circuit. The peak body for Energy networks is the Energy Networks Association Ltd and relevant documentation “emf update” that includes the following advice: “The Australian electricity industry follows the “Interim guidelines on limits of exposure to 50/60 Hz electric and magnetic fields” as developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) in 1989. The NHMRC Guidelines suggest a magnetic field public exposure limit of 1,000mG. These Guidelines are currently recommended by ARPANSA pending finalisation of their new Guideline. The two internationally recognised exposure limit guidelines originate from the • » Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) of the USA, and;

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• »International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), an expert advisory body to the WHO. Under the IEEE Standard of 2002 the recommended magnetic field public exposure limit is 9,040 milligauss (mG). Under the ICNIRP guidelines of 2010 the recommended magnetic field public exposure limit is 2,000 milligauss (mG).” Energy Networks Association publication Electricity Industry EMF Measurement Protocol for High Field Areas states that “High field areas are considered to be those that may be comparable to or exceed the NHMRC or ICNIRP recommended limits of exposure at power frequencies in Tables 1 and 2”.

Table 1. NHMRC (1989) recommended EMF limits of exposure Electric Field Magnetic Flux Strength (kV/m) Density (mG) Occupational Whole working day 10 5,000 Short term 30 50,000 For limbs - 250,000 General Public Up to 24h/day 5 1,000 Few hours/day 10 10,000

Table 2. ICNIRP (1998) recommended EMF limits of exposure Electric Field Magnetic Flux Strength (kV/m) Density (mG) Occupational Whole working day 10 5,000 General Public Up to 24h/day 5 1,000

Table 3 shows the corresponding limits of exposure for the IEEE standard for comparison.

Table 3. IEEE (2002) recommended EMF limits of exposure Electric Field Magnetic Flux Strength (kV/m) Density (mG) Occupational Whole working day 20 27,100 For limbs - 758,000 General Public Up to 24h/day 5* 9,040 Extremities - 758,000

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3.1. Regulation

“In Australia, the Commonwealth body with responsibility for developing safety standards for electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) is the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), an agency of the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.” (Reference ENA Update 2011). ARPANSA has a range of publications and statements on its web site www.arpansa.gov.au related to electricity and health, including information on the draft EMF Standard. In particular Fact Sheet 19 “Electricity and Health” of May 2011 in summary states: “The scientific evidence does not firmly establish that exposure to 50Hz electric and magnetic fields found around the home, the office or near power lines is a hazard to human health.”

3.2. Typical EMR Values for Household Appliances

For comparison with the EMR values emitted by a power frequency underground cable installation the following table provides a listing of typical EMR values from household appliances as published by the Energy Networks Association.

Appliance Range of measurements (mG)

Electric stove 2 – 30

Refrigerator 2 – 5

Electric kettle 2 – 10

Toaster 2 – 10

Television 0.2 – 2

Personal computer 2 – 20

Electric blanket 5 – 30

Hair dryer 10 – 70

Pedestal fan 0.2 – 2

It is worthwhile to note that the range for magnetic fields at the edge of an overhead transmission line easement is 2mG to 50mG with a typical value of 10mG.

4. 132kV Underground Cable Arrangement

The existing 132kV overhead lines that traverse the Molonglo 3 development have been constructed with Twin ‘Moose (54/6/0.139” + 1/0.146” ACSR/GZ) phase conductors on single circuit steel transmission towers. A 132kV underground cable

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installation to replace the existing transmission line will be designed and installed to have an equal current rating to the 132kV transmission lines. The proposed 132kV underground cable groups have been selected from manufacturer’s data to provide a load carrying capacity equivalent to the 132kV transmission lines. From discussion with AAD, the load carrying capacity of the preferred underground cable equivalent to the 132kV transmission line is two (2) parallel underground cable groups, with each group comprising 3 x 72.5/132kV, single core (1c), 1,600mm2 copper conductor, XLPE insulated / lead alloy sheath / copper wire screened / PVC / HPDE over-sheath cable. It is noted that cable designs are available with other types of metallic sheaths such as corrugated aluminium alloy and corrugated stainless steel sheaths that provide a moisture / water barrier for the cable and will have similar current ratings to the cable specified above. i. The combined rated capacity of the above twin cable groups, direct buried and in a flat configuration is as follows:

• Summer rating with a Load Factor of 1.0 and an operating temperature of 90oC is 2,394A and;

• Winter rating with a Load Factor of 1.0 and an operating temperature of 90oC is 2540A.

The ultimate cable rating will be determined by the type of cable selected, geothermal data of the local soil conditions along the easement and installation configuration relating to a preferred flat cable arrangement. Underground cables can also be installed in a trefoil arrangement but configuration is NOT preferred by AAD for operational and maintenance reasons and is therefore not considered in this report. ii. Laying depth: 1200mm; Soil Resistivity: 1 0Cm/W; Load Factor 1.0; Conductor Temperature: 900C; Soil Temperature: 300C; Ambient Temperature: 400C; and Earthing Method of Single Point Bonding. iii. A 15m nominal easement width, as initially proposed by AAD for a 132 kV underground cable installation. iv. Direct buried cable installation with a backfill of 14:1 sand and cement mixture and a concrete cover to protect the installation. The sketch below shows a cross-section of a 132kV underground cable installation comprising two groups of single core cables.

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Ground Level

1200 mm I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I cpI cpI cpI cp I cpI

500mm 500 mm 2000 mm 500mm 500 mm

'D' 'D' 'S' 'D' 'D'

NOTTO SCALE

ActewAGL Easement Width 15m

Proposed ActewAGL 132kV Underground Cable Install ation Flat Configuration

Two (2) Cable Group Configuration S (mm) D (mm)

Flat Cable Arrangement 2,000 500

5. 132kV Underground Cable Electro Magnetic Radiation Analysis

To determine the 24hour electromagnetic radiation exposure located adjacent to the 132kV underground cable easement, consideration has been given to the cyclic nature of the load transmitted through the underground cable groups during peak and off peak periods. Daily load profiles for the cables will vary over the year, with different maximum demands expected during winter and summer. It should be noted that the maximum or emergency loading would only occur very infrequently, when the network has been reconfigured for operational purposes. EMR studies have been conducted on a flat cable configuration under estimated continuous maximum load, estimated daily peak loads (occurring for up to five hours per day) and off-peak loads. The following table records the results of EMR calculations conducted for the 132kV underground cable installations comprising two groups of single core cables. The single core cables of the two cable groups are arranged with the following phasing relationship A1-B1- C1 and C2-B2-A2.

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EMR Calculation Values (mG)

Phasing Arrangement Cable Spacing 2 132kV Cable Groups 2m Between Groups 0.5m Between Cables A1-B1-C1 - C2-B2-A2 132kV UG Cable Rating Equivalent to Winter AAD Anticipated Distance m Transmission Line AAD Peak Load AAD Off Peak Load Maximum Load Continuous Thermal Rating Load 2540A 1175A 750A 375A -25.00 14.12 6.53 4.17 A 2.09 -24.50 14.71 6.80 4.34 2.17 -24.00 15.33 7.09 4.53 / "- 2.26 -23.50 15.99 7.40 4.72 2.36 /)v -23.00 16.70 7.72 4.93 ~ >2.47 -22.50 17.45 8.07 5.15 2.58 -22.00 18.26 8.45 ( V/5.39 2.70 -21.50 19.12 8.84 5.65 2.82 -21.00 20.04 9.27/'- ~5.92 > 2.96 -20.50 21.04 9.73 6.21 3.11 -20.00 22.11 10.23\ \ 7 ,-../6.53 3.26 -19.50 23.26 10.76 6.87 3.43 -19.00 24.51 / \ 11.34\ \ 7.24 3.62 -18.50 25.86 11.96 7.63 3.82 ,I -18.00 27.32< ~ 12.64/ 8.07 4.03 -17.50 28.91 13.37 8.54 4.27 -17.00 / 30.65 / 14.18 9.05 4.52 -16.50 32.54 15.06 9.61 4.80 -16.00( 34.62'""'"J I 16.02 10.22 5.11 -15.50 ' 36.91 17.07 10.90 5.45 -15.00 39.43 18.24 11.64 5.82 -14.50 '" /42.21 19.53 12.46 6.23 -14.00 45.30 20.96 13.38 6.69

-13.50 48.74 22.55 14.39 7.20

-13.00 52.59 24.33 15.53 7.77

-12.50 56.92 26.33 16.81 8.40

-12.00 61.80 28.59 18.25 9.12

-11.50 67.33 31.15 19.88 9.94

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-11.00 73.64 34.07 21.75 10.87

-10.50 80.88 37.41 23.88 11.94

-10.00 89.23 41.28 26.35 13.17

-9.50 98.93 45.76 29.21 14.61

-9.00 110.28 51.02 32.56 16.28

-8.50 123.69 57.22 36.52 18.26

-8.00 139.65 64.60 41.23 20.62

-7.50 158.82 73.47 46.90 23.45 -7.00 182.08 84.23 53.77 / / 26.88 -6.50 210.60 97.42 62.19 31.09

-6.00 245.91 113.76 72.61 36.31 "

3.50 604.42 279.60 178.47 89.24

4.00 501.53 232.01 148.09 74.04

4.50 415.15 192.05 122.58 61.29

5.00 345.47 159.81 102.01 51.00

5.50 290.02 134.16 85.64 42.82

6.00 245.91 113.76 72.61 36.31

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6.50 210.61 97.43 62.19 31.09

7.00 182.09 84.24 53.77 26.88

7.50 158.83 73.48 46.90 23.45

8.00 139.66 64.61 41.24 20.62

8.50 123.70 57.22 36.53 18.26

9.00 110.29 51.02 32.57 16.28

9.50 98.93 45.77 29.21 14.61

10.00 89.23 41.28 26.35 ~ 13.17 10.50 80.87 37.41 23.88 11.94 11.00 73.64 34.06 21.74 /- 10.87 11.50 67.32 31.14 19.88 9.94 12.00 61.79 28.58 /;·18.24 '"./ 9.12 12.50 56.91 26.33 16.80 8.40 13.00 52.58 24.32 < V/15.53 7.76 13.50 48.73 22.54 14.39 7.19 14.00 45.29 20.95/'--_ ".l13.37 6.69 14.50 42.20 19.52 12.46 6.23 15.00 39.41 18.23\ \/ r/11.64 5.82 15.50 36.89 17.07 10.89 5.45 16.00 34.61 / 16.01\ > 10.22 5.11 16.50 32.53 15.05 9.61 4.80

17.00 30.64 14.17/ 9.05 4.52 \ v ~ ' 17.50 28.90 13.37 8.53 4.27 18.00 / 27.31 / 12.63 8.06 4.03 18.50 25.85 11.96 7.63 3.82 19.00< 24.50)"' I 11.33 7.23 3.62 19.50 ' 23.25 10.76 6.87 3.43 20.00 "/22.10 10.22 6.53 3.26 20.50 21.03 9.73 6.21 3.10

21.00 20.04 9.27 5.92 2.96

21.50 19.11 8.84 5.64 2.82

22.00 18.25 8.44 5.39 2.69

22.50 17.45 8.07 5.15 2.58

23.00 16.69 7.72 4.93 2.46

23.50 15.99 7.40 4.72 2.36

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24.00 15.33 7.09 4.53 2.26

24.50 14.71 6.80 4.34 2.17

25.00 14.12 6.53 4.17 2.08

1000.00

900.00 -

800.00 -

·-c-

1--f- -

700.00 :...l 132kV UG Cable Rang - -- Equivalent to Winter - Transmission Line Connuous ·- -- Rang 2540A 600.00 ._ - Emergency Load 1175A - -- 500.00 -- r - ~ '...... !...- ...

~ --Peak Load 750A 400.00 A H _, 1 -fI - 1

EMR (mG) --1 300.00 - - -Off Peak Load 375A -- T .. - ~ .. I I I j I I / I I • I I I I I I - I 200.00 I I I I I I I I I I I I I , I I , .j , j .. , , - I I I I \ r I I100.00 I '_\ it- ' ' ~ '£.. , ~ ' ' ' - -.;,, .,,,, i., .. " ...... II T ' ' -- - - ' --' -- 0.00 -30.00 -20.00 -10.00 0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 Distance from Centre Line of Cable Groups (m)

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Molonglo 3 - 132kV Transmission Line Relocations Options Study Assessment of the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) Profile Adjacent to the Proposed ActewAGL Distribution 132kV Underground Cable Installations

6. Conclusions and Discussion

The recommended Electromagnetic Radiation Levels (EMR) that the public are exposed to are summarised as follows: Organisation Recommended Comment EMR Value Energy Networks Association Ltd 1,000mG Reference - ARPANSA and (ENA) NHMRC Guidelines Institute of Electrical and 9,040mG IEEE Standard of 2002 Electronics Engineers (IEEE) of the USA International Commission on Non- 2,000mG Advisors to the World Health Ionizing Radiation Protection Organisation (WHO) (ICNIRP),

Loading Condition Load EMR Level at Edge EMR Level at Distance of 7.5m Distance 25m from from the Centre the Centre Line of Line of the Cable the Cable Group and Group and Easement Easement Continuous Load 2,540A 158.83mG 14.12mG Emergency Load 1175A 73.47mG 6.53mG Peak Load 750A 46.90mG 4.17mG Off Peak Load 375A 23.45mG 2.08mG

As determined from the EMR levels calculated, residents living adjacent to the underground cable easement would not be exposed to high levels of EMR radiation that exceed the 24 hour exposure level of 1,000mG advised by the Energy Networks Association Ltd (ENA) based on ARPANSA and NHMRC Guidelines. Under normal network operations the EMR exposure levels will vary daily with peak and off peak loads over the working week and during weekends.

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7. References

i. http://www.ena.asn.au/policy/consumer-and-community/electric-and-magnetic- fields/ ii. http://www.ena.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/EMF_Update_May-11.pdf iii. Energy Networks Association - Electricity Industry EMF Measurement Protocol for High Field Area. iv. Australian Government –Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear safety Agency – Technical Report – Pilot Study of Residential Power Frequency Magnetic Fields in Melbourne (2005) - Ken Karipidis and Lindsay J Martin

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,.

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Inspired people I Dedicated team Quality outcomes

C ::, calibre

RE-LOCATION OF 132KV TRANSMISSION LINES, MOLONGLO STAGE 3 URBAN AREA: SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Cultural Heritage Assessment

FINAL

December 2019

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C _; calibre

RE-LOCATION OF 132KV TRANSMISSION LINES, MOLONGLO STAGE 3 URBAN AREA: SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Cultural Heritage Assessment

FINAL

Prepared by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited on behalf of Calibre Consulting

Project Director: Karina Carwardine Project Manager: Amanda Mulherin Technical Director: Nicola Roche Technical Manager: Ashley O’Sullivan Report No. 8139/R03/V3 Date: December, 2019

umwelt Canberra

PO Box 6135 56 Bluebell Street O’Connor ACT 2602

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Disclaimer

This document has been prepared for the sole use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that for which it was supplied by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (Umwelt). No other party should rely on this document without the prior written consent of Umwelt.

Umwelt undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to any third party who may rely upon or use this document. Umwelt assumes no liability to a third party for any inaccuracies in or omissions to that information. Where this document indicates that information has been provided by third parties, Umwelt has made no independent verification of this information except as expressly stated. ©Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd Document Status

Rev No. Reviewer Approved for Issue

Name Date Name Date

V1 Nicola Roche 11 September 2018 Nicola Roche 11 September 2018

V2 Ashley O’Sullivan 12 April 2019 Ashley O’Sullivan 12 April 2019

V3 Ashley O’Sullivan 18 October 2019 Ashley O’Sullivan 18 October 2019

V3 (R) Ashley O’Sullivan 2 December 2019 Ashley O’Sullivan 2 December 2019

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Executive Summary

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd has been engaged by • Grinding grooves may be present within the Calibre Consulting to prepare a Cultural Heritage project area, but given that outcrops or large Assessment for an update to the location of proposed boulders of sandstone are generally uncommon 132kV high voltage lines as part of the Molonglo Stage across the soil landscapes that make up the project 3 Urban Area (Figure 1.1). A number of assessments area, these are unlikely to occur. have been previously undertaken for the Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area and the project area is entirely • While one piece of flaked glass has been identified within the north side of the Molonglo River Corridor. within the region, this is the only evidence for This assessment has been undertaken to determine post-contact archaeology and as a result this type the potential for Aboriginal and/or historic heritage of artefact is unlikely to occur within the project sites to occur, using our existing understanding of the area. environmental, archaeological and cultural context of the area. • Based on the regional model, other site types are unlikely to occur within the project area. Archaeological site patterning throughout the Molonglo Valley area suggests that there is potential With regarding to historic heritage, the following site for Aboriginal and historic heritage sites within the types have potential to occur: project area. Generally, the following Aboriginal site types have the potential to occur: • Remains of nineteenth century structures, such as dwellings, stock yards and other rural farm use • Artefact scatters and isolated finds are moderately items. These items may remain as intact likely to occur within the project area, structures, ruins or archaeological deposits ; predominantly in exposed or eroded areas. Parts of the project area are in proximity to a major • Fence lines, that may be found along site watercourse (either Deep Creek or Molonglo boundaries or stock yard borders; River). Archaeological patterning for the region indicates that areas in close proximity (generally • Early tracks, stock routes and roads; less than 200m) to reliable water sources retain the highest potential for these sites to occur. • Early survey markers, such as trigonometric Impacts from European occupations such as stations. vegetation clearance and topsoil removal for roads and tracks may have affected this potential in The landscape of the project area was generally some areas. undulating lower slopes, with exposed areas present within existing tracks and eroded slopes. Field • Scarred trees are unlikely to occur, but may exist if investigation undertaken as part of this assessment unidentified old growth trees or remnant resulted in the identification of three previously woodland are present in the project area. unidentified Aboriginal objects (all isolated artefacts). No areas of potential archaeological deposit (PADs) or historic heritage items were identified within the

i Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au .-!JJ,,__ J Gmwelt project area. All three sites identified are considered to have low scientific significance. This is primarily due to the low research potential and low rarity value of the sites, as they were found in highly eroded or disturbed contexts and are a common site type within the Molonglo Valley area. No specific comments on cultural significance was received from the Representative Aboriginal Organisations (RAOs).

The recommendations below are made to ensure that the proposed construction of new high voltage lines minimises impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage where possible, and complies with all relevant legislative requirements. We highlight that the preferred heritage outcome is to avoid impacts to heritage items.

• The three newly identified sites (MV-HVL-IF-1, MV- HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3) should be inspected and fenced off prior to construction beginning (Figure 6.1 and Figure 6.2). This fencing should give each site a 5m perimeter, to ensure that no direct or indirect impacts can occur during construction. Upon completion of construction, the fencing should be removed.

• No further Aboriginal or historical archaeological work is recommended, and the project may proceed with caution. Should unanticipated discoveries be made during construction, work should cease and follow the protocols provided in Section 9.0 – Unanticipated Discovery Plan.

• The three newly identified sites (MV-HVL-IF-1, MV- HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3) will be registered with ACT Heritage.

• Following finalisation, a copy of this report should be provided to ACT Heritage for their review and approval.

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Table of Contents

Executive Summary i 1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Project Description 1 1.2 Project Area 1 1.3 Project Methodology 1 1.3.1 Background Research 1 1.3.2 Field Investigation 2 1.3.3 Report Production 2 1.4 Project Team 2 2.0 Heritage Register Searches 4 2.1 Commonwealth Registers 4 2.1.1 Australian Heritage Database 4 2.1.2 National Native Title Register 4 2.2 ACT Heritage Register 4 2.3 Non-Statutory Register 5 2.3.1 The National Trust of Australia (ACT) 5 3.0 Representative Aboriginal Organisation Consultation 6 3.1 ACT Heritage Consultation 6 3.2 Consultation with the RAOs 6 4.0 Environmental Context 8 4.1 Geology 8 4.2 Soils 8 4.3 Hydrology 9 4.4 Past Vegetation 9 4.5 Existing Disturbance 9 5.0 Archaeological and Cultural Background 13 5.1 Ethnographic Background 13 5.2 Information Provided by the RAOs 13 5.3 Regional Aboriginal Archaeological Background 13 5.4 Regional Historic Archaeological Background 14 5.5 Local Archaeological Studies 16 5.6 Predictive Model 19 5.6.1 Aboriginal Archaeology 19 5.6.2 Historical Heritage 19

Re-Location of 132kV Transmission lines, Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area: Supporting Documentation 8139_R03_CHA_V3_Redacted.docx

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6.0 Field Investigation 20 6.1 Survey Methodology 20 6.2 Project Team and Participation 20 6.3 William Hovell Drive Survey Area 20 6.3.1 MV-HVL-IF-1 21 6.4 Tuggeranong Parkway Survey Area 23 6.4.1 MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3 23 7.0 Significance Assessment 27 7.1 Principles and Evaluation Criteria 27 7.2 Assessment of Significance 27 7.2.1 ACT Heritage Criteria 27 7.2.2 Scientific Significance 28 7.3 Aboriginal Community Cultural Significance 28 7.4 Significance of the Newly Identified Sites 28 8.0 Management Strategy and Conclusions 29 8.1 Management Strategy and Recommendations 29 9.0 Unanticipated Discovery Plan (UDP) 30 10.0 References 33

Re-Location of 132kV Transmission lines, Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area: Supporting Documentation 8139_R03_CHA_V3_Redacted.docx

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Figures

Figure 1.1 The project area 3 Figure 4.1 Existing geology of the project area and general locality 10 Figure 4.2 Existing soil landscapes of the project area and general locality 11 Figure 4.3 Existing hydrology of the project area and general locality 12 Figure 5.1 Weetangera Parish Maps, 1912 15 Figure 5.2 Previous archaeological studies of the Molonglo Valley that have occurred in close proximity to the current project area 18 Figure 6.1 Results of the William Hovell Drive survey area 25 Figure 6.2 Results of the Tuggeranong Parkway survey area 26

Plates

Plate 6.1 Existing sheep track and general grass coverage in the southwest of the William Hovell Drive survey area. 22 Plate 6.2 General grass coverage along an existing drainage line, looking east on the south side of William Hovell Drive. 22 Plate 6.3 View across heavily disturbed area in the centre of the roadway.. 22 Plate 6.4 Example of the grass coverage and track exposures in the north eastern part of the William Hovell Drive survey area. 22 Plate 6.5 Location of MV-HVL-IF-1 (pink, centre of track) along cut and exposed track. Looking west, towards proposed impact area. 22 Plate 6.6 MV-HVL-IF-1 22 Plate 6.7 View east across fire trail within project area, on the banks of the Molonglo River. 24 Plate 6.8 View west across fire trail within project area, on the banks of the Molonglo River. 24 Plate 6.9 Example of the heavily eroded track, looking towards project area / Molonglo River. 24 Plate 6.10 Location of MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3 on heavily eroded track, facing south towards the Molonglo River (not visible). 24 Plate 6.11 MV-HVL-IF-3 24 Plate 6.12 MV-HVL-IF-3 24

Tables

Table 2.1 Aboriginal heritage sites listed in the direct vicinity of the project area 4 Table 3.1 Representative Aboriginal Organisation consultation during this project 6 Table 5.1 Studies undertaken in close proximity to the current project area 16 Table 6.1 Artefacts in proximity to the William Hovell Drive survey area 21 Table 6.2 Aboriginal sites identified in proximity to the Tuggeranong Parkway survey area 23 Table 7.1 Significance Assessment of the three sites identified 28 Table 9.1 Process for Discovery of Aboriginal Places, Objects or Features 31 Table 9.2 Process for Unanticipated Discovery of Skeletal Material 32

Re-Location of 132kV Transmission lines, Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area: Supporting Documentation 8139_R03_CHA_V3_Redacted.docx

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1.0 Introduction

1.1 Project Description

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (Umwelt) has been engaged by Calibre Consulting on behalf of the ACT Government, Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate (ESDD) to undertake an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHA) for an update to the location of proposed 132kV high voltage lines as part of the Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area.

This report is provided for the information of the ESDD as supporting documentation for an amendment to an existing exemption made under Section 211 (s211) of the Planning and Development Act 2007 (PD Act).

The purpose of this assessment is to undertake desktop and field investigation to determine if the realignment of the proposed 132kV high voltage lines will impact any previously unidentified historical or Aboriginal cultural heritage items.

1.2 Project Area

The project area is primarily located with the Molonglo Valley, which is approximately 15km west of the Canberra City centre, following the lower reaches of the Molonglo River. Cultural heritage assessments have been undertaken throughout the Molonglo Valley (Stage 1, 2 and 3) in recent years to support the development of a new hub that will house 55,000 people. These cultural heritage assessments have informed our understanding of the Molonglo Valley as a whole, identifying numerous sites that were not otherwise registered and increasing our knowledge on Aboriginal utilisation of the area.

The project area is two areas in the northern southern part and southern part of the proposed 132kV high voltage lines locations footprint. This current project area is made up of parts of the proposed high voltage lines footprint that has not previously been subject to an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (refer to Figure 1.1). For the purposes of the survey, the project area has been broken in to the William Hovell Drive Survey Area and Tuggeranong Parkway Survey Area.

1.3 Project Methodology

The project methodology was designed by Umwelt, in accordance with the project brief provided by Calibre Consulting and included input from the ACT Heritage Unit and Registered Aboriginal Organisations (RAOs). The methodology was designed to fulfil the primary aims of the heritage assessment, and is split in to the following stages:

1.3.1 Background Research

A search was undertaken of the ACT Heritage Register and copies of relevant reports requested from the ACT Heritage Unit to ensure that all background information for the project (including previous assessments, previously recorded sites) was available for this assessment. All previous assessments available were summarised and provided in this report. Further to this, a search of the ACT National Trust Register and the Register of the National Estate was undertaken to ensure that no previously recorded historical archaeological sites occurred within the project area.

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1.3.2 Field Investigation

After review of all relevant documentation and land access arrangements, field investigation of the project area was undertaken. The investigation focused on the identification of any landforms of archaeological interest and previously unidentified Aboriginal sites / potential archaeological deposits (PADs). Further information on the detailed survey methodology for the project can be found in Section 6.1.

1.3.3 Report Production

The background research and outcomes of the field investigation for the project area have been compiled and provided in this report, clearly presenting the findings.

1.4 Project Team

This assessment has been prepared by Ashley O’Sullivan (Senior Archaeologist) with technical direction provided by Nicola Roche (Manager – Cultural Heritage), Amanda Mulherin (Environmental Scientist) and Karina Carwardine (Principal – Environmental Impact Assessment, ACT).

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Le ge nd c::::::J Project A,eo c::::J Ex isling 132kV Al" FIGURE 1.1 Proposed 132kV Arlgnme nt :::ZI~ p rgnment roposed 132kV Ali gnment Centre line Project Area Location

20191018File Nome isA4.d ; R03/8139 __ 004.dgn Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au ...!!),_ .J Gmwelt 2.0 Heritage Register Searches

The following sections provide the results of the desktop analysis drawn from the searches of the statutory and non-statutory heritage registers, schedules and databases and the review of other existing heritage information available for the project area.

2.1 Commonwealth Registers

2.1.1 Australian Heritage Database

A search of the Australian Heritage Database, incorporating the Commonwealth Heritage List, National Heritage List, Register of the National Estate (RNE) and World Heritage List was undertaken on 27 August 2016.

No items are listed on the Commonwealth Heritage Register or National Heritage List for the Project area.

The RNE was closed in 2007 and is no longer a statutory list. The RNE is now an archive of 13,000 places in Australia that includes places of local and state significance. Many places in the RNE are now included in other statutory lists, such as state heritage lists, or local government heritage registers. As a result, those places receive protection under the relevant federal, state, territory or local legislation. RNE places can be protected under the EPBC Act if they are included in another Commonwealth statutory heritage list or are owned by the Commonwealth.

There are no items within the project area listed on the RNE.

2.1.2 National Native Title Register

A search of the National Native Title Tribunal’s online database was undertaken on 27 August 2018 and showed no Indigenous Land Use Agreements, Native Title Applications, Registrations or Determinations in the ACT.

2.2 ACT Heritage Register

The Heritage Register is a public list containing registration details of each recognised heritage place or object in the ACT, including natural, indigenous and built. Records of provisionally registered, as well as nominated places and objects are maintained on the register by the Heritage Council.

A search of the ACT Heritage Register was undertaken on 27 August 2018. The search identified no Aboriginal sites that have management constraints within the project area. Sites listed below in Table 2.1 have been recorded within the vicinity of the project area.

Table 2.1 Aboriginal heritage sites listed in the direct vicinity of the project area

Site Name Heritage ID Location ID Recorded By 12B2 1172 1998 Bullbeck and Boot 1990 12B4 --1172 ■868 Bullbeck and Boot 1990 12I1 -1172 2499 Bullbeck and Boot 1990 BELC 22 --1172 1422 Kabalia 1999 BELC 29 --1172 2844 Kabalia 1999 CLB7 --1162 2823 Knight 2003 Re-Location of 132kV Transmission lines, Molonglo Stage 3 Urban Area: Supporting Documentation Heritage Register Searches 8139_R03_CHA_V3_Redacted.docx 4

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2.3 Non-Statutory Register

2.3.1 The National Trust of Australia (ACT)

The National Trust of Australia (ACT) Heritage Register is not a statutory list. Furthermore in 2004 the National Trust Act ceased classifying heritage sites and instead nominates them to the ACT Heritage Register (local), National Heritage List (national significance) and Commonwealth Heritage List (heritage sites controlled by Commonwealth Government).

No items are listed on the National Trust of Australia (ACT) Heritage Register for the project area or within the immediate vicinity.

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3.1 ACT Heritage Consultation

During the course of the project, consultation with ACT Heritage has been ongoing.

3.2 Consultation with the RAOs

Representative Aboriginal Organisation (RAO) consultation for this project has been undertaken in accordance with ACT Heritage recommendations. The four RAOs registered with ACT Heritage were contacted and invited to participate in development of the methodology and field investigation. These organisations were:

• Buru Ngunawal Aboriginal Cultural Consultancy (BNACC)

• King Brown’s Tribal Group (KBTG)

• Little Gudgenby River Tribal Council (LGRTC)

• Ngarigu Currawong Clan (NCC)

Consultation with all the RAOs listed above was undertaken during this project. Table 3.1 provides a detailed breakdown of RAO consultation undertaken.

No comment on the final report was provided by the RAOs.

Table 3.1 Representative Aboriginal Organisation consultation during this project

Phase of RAO Contact Response Date Undertaken Consultation I I Person I I Notification of BNACC Mr Wally Bell Happy with methodology and 21 August 2018 project and available to undertake field invitation to investigation. participate in KBTG Mr Carl Brown Happy with methodology and 21 August 2018 development of available to undertake field methodology and investigation. field investigation. LGRTC Ms Matilda Did not respond. 21 August 2018 House NCC Mr James Did not respond. 21 August 2018 Mundy Field investigation BNACC Mr Justin Bell Participated in field investigation 29 August 2018 and provided input on archaeological and cultural heritage value of the project area. KBTG Mr Carl Brown Was unable to participate in field 29 August 2018 investigation due to clashing commitments.

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Phase of RAO Contact Response Date Undertaken Consultation Person I Report Review BNACC Mr Wally Bell Did not respond. 20 March 2019 – 10 April 2019 KBTG Mr Carl Brown Did not respond. 20 March 2019 – 10 April 2019 LGRTC Ms Matilda Did not respond. 20 March 2019 – House 10 April 2019 NCC Mr James Did not respond. 20 March 2019 – Mundy 10 April 2019

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4.0 Environmental Context

4.1 Geology

The project area is located within the Mount Painter Volcanic groups, dating to the late Silurian period. The Mount Painter Volcanics found in the project area are primarily acidic, with types of volcanic rock including ignimbrites, siltstones and tuff. Typically, due to the deep soils and topographic landscape, there are few rock outcrops associated with this geological process. Exception to this geological practice are found in close proximity to major waterways, with shallow topsoil deposition and rock exposures created by the fast moving waterways. Where present, fine-grained materials such as silcrete, tuffs and high quality quartz are found throughout the project (and general) area, and would have been utilised by Aboriginal people.

4.2 Soils

The project area is located upon two soil landscapes, the Burra and Williamsdale groups, with the northern part (William Hovell Drive survey area) in close proximity to the Campell soil landscape and the southern part (Tuggeranong Parkway survey area) in close proximity to the Lower Molonglo Variant B. The northern part of the project area (William Hovell Drive survey area) is located entirely upon the Burra soil landscape, while the southern portion (Tuggeranong Parkway survey area) is located entirely upon the Williamsdale soil landscape (Jenkins 2000).

The Burra soil landscape is described as complex, primarily due to the steeply dipping landscape and its broad coverage area. The variance of the upper soil profile is found across four primary landscape features: crest and upper slopes, midslopes, lower slopes and open depressions. Crests and upper slopes generally consist of deposits less than 50cm, open depressions are generally 50-100cm with midslopes and lower slopes between 50cm -150cm. The Burra soil landscape has been subject to typically extensive disturbance and alteration of landscape, soils and drainage networks within suburban areas. Within rural contexts, minor sheet erosion and moderate gully erosion is widespread.

The Williamsdale soil landscape often has considerable changes in soil profile within its vast coverage area, and as such is considered to have a widely variable soil profile. Generally found on lower slopes and in close proximity to drainage lines, deposits of this soil profile range from 50-150cm. This profile is highly susceptible to erosional processes (both water and wind) across all different land use types, including cultivation, grazing and urban development.

The Campbell soil landscape is a collection of erosional remnants of various volcanic blocks that form the generally isolated ridges, hills and mountains of the Canberra lowlands. Soils consist of generally shallow (<50cm), well drained materials formed on the crests and upper slopes with deeper topsoils (50-150cm) generally found in mid to lower slopes. This soil profile is generally subject to high or very high erosion, due to historic vegetation clearance. In some areas, revegetation has been undertaken to attempt to control the high erosion levels.

Lower Molonglo Variant B soil landscape (not shown in Figure 4.2, but contained within the Molonglo River) generally consists of exposed bedrock with little soil development apart from patches of shallow sand veneers in hollows of the rocky streambed. It is distinguished by larger, high-energy watercourses with incised channels, but little or no sand bar development. This profile is restricted to the streambed and banks of the lower reaches of the Molonglo River (as the soil landscape name suggests), between Lake Burley Griffin and the Molonglo River’s confluence with the Murrumbidgee River. The land this soil landscape is formed on is generally unused due to severe flood risk and erosion hazard.

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4.3 Hydrology

The closest substantial water course to the project area is the Molonglo River, with the Tuggeranong Parkway section of the project area located on the banks of the Molonglo River. The Molonglo River is part of the Murrumbidgee catchment within the Murray-Darling basin, and feeds Lake Burley Griffin to the west of the project area. Deep Creek, a first order tributary that runs to the north of the Molonglo River, cuts through the northern part of the study area. A number of other minor tributary creek lines run in close proximity to the project area. As a reliable source of fresh water and associated resources, the Molonglo River would have been a focal point of Aboriginal occupation of the Molonglo Valley. Other, less reliable water courses would also periodically provided an attractive camping location. Generally, land within proximity to reliable water courses is identified as having high potential for Aboriginal objects or sites, as these areas were of high value to Aboriginal people.

4.4 Past Vegetation

Vegetation within the project area has been impacted by historical clearance by early European settlers, for farming and agricultural practices. Eucalyptus open woodland would have been the dominant vegetation type across the two parts of the project area, with the species most likely to occur including Eucalyptus blakeyi (Blakely’s Red Gum), Eucalyptus bidgesiana (Apple Box) and Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box). Any remaining original vegetation is now generally isolated to remnant stands of Eucalypts and associated species on ridgelines. Grassland coverage would have primarily comprised of Themeda, Austraodathonia, Austrostipa and Poa species, with these species generally still present today.

4.5 Existing Disturbance

Historical and recent development of the project area can impact the potential for Aboriginal objects or sites to occur throughout. The project area is generally within a part of the Canberra area that has not been subject to extensive disturbance through urban development.

However, as described above, the area would have been subject to historical clearance of vegetation, with this generally impacting the erosional process across the area and likely minimising the potential for culturally scarred trees to occur. Some revegetation has occurred across nearby ridgelines to assist in managing sediment movement down these slopes in to drainage lines and other water courses.

Road, drainage and electrical infrastructure has had the largest impact on areas within or near to the project area, with the construction of William Hovell Drive, Coulter Road, Coppins Crossing Road and Tuggeranong Parkway likely removing any remnant topsoil. Associated drainage works bordering the roadways further minimises the likelihood of the original soil profile remaining, and as a result any areas within the road reserve generally have a low to nil likelihood of Aboriginal objects or sites remaining. In some cases, these items can be identified in heavily disturbed contexts, but will generally not have any associated sub-surface potential. Impacts associated with existing electrical infrastructure within the general locality Include the installation of poles and wires and ongoing clearance and vehicle movements within the easement.

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5.0 Archaeological and Cultural Background

5.1 Ethnographic Background

Understanding of the organisation (both socially and by language group) of Aboriginal people in the Canberra region is limited to a small number of written and oral history documents (primarily Avery 1994, Flood 1980, Gillespie 1984). Through dispossession of land and the subsequent loss of these histories, historians/ethnographers have only been able to put together small parts of the story of Aboriginal life and custom through nineteenth century ethnographic accounts.

Similarly to distribution across other parts of Australia, Aboriginal people generally identified tribal territories through drainage basins, major waterways or other geographical landmarks, with this evident in the southern uplands (Flood 1980). As described above in the environmental section, the local relief throughout this area creates significant drainage basins with clearly identifiable major waterways (such as the Murrumbidgee and Molonglo Rivers) and would have signified tribal boundaries in the past. These areas were used seasonally, with the major waterways acting as guidelines to return to different areas throughout the seasons. These waterways also acted as communication lines, with groups that were present within a catchment area generally sharing common language and beliefs.

Flood (1980) identified that the Bogong moth was of great important to Aboriginal people in the area. It inhabits the mountain areas, and was an important food source for communities who are believed to have travelled a great distance to exploit this resource and partake in associated ceremonial activities. This also would have led to trade and exchange of other items / ceremonial practices during the spring and summer months, with Aboriginal people from as far as the coast participating in these trade networks (Avery 1994).

First contact between Aboriginal people of this area and Europeans is likely to have occurred in the 1820s, through explorers such as Throsby, Smith, Vaughn and Wild. While they did not directly interact with Aboriginal people, fires in the distance were observed and suggestions of Aboriginal campsites are made (Gillespie 1984). Early accounts of interaction between Aboriginal groups and early pastoralists were documented, predominantly near Yass and Lake George. These interactions generally led to violence between the two groups, as Aboriginal people fought to keep their traditional hunting grounds from being cleared for stock grazing and agriculture. In some cases, there are examples of Aboriginal people utilising resources from these early pastoral areas, through various methods (either by force, in exchange for work or given freely).

Gillespie (1984) suggested that not all relationships between Aboriginal people and early pastoralists led to violence, with the Palmer, Davis and Wright families having amicable relationships with Aboriginal people they employed and the wider community. Another example is Ginninderra Station, which had a number of Aboriginal people playing on their cricket team.

5.2 Information Provided by the RAOs

No specific cultural information was provided by the RAOs during their review of the assessment.

5.3 Regional Aboriginal Archaeological Background

Through recent development of the Canberra area, and specifically the recent project planning for the Molonglo Valley Stages 1, 2 and 3, a number of archaeological assessments have been undertaken that have further informed our understanding of how Aboriginal people used the local landscape.

One of the first and most significant assessments of the Canberra region was undertaken by Flood (1973, 1980), who documented in great detail the available information on the Aboriginal inhabitants of the area.

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Flood documented a site on the slopes of Black Mountain Peninsula, which consisted of a large, high density artefact scatter. Prior to the formation of Lake Burley Griffin, Black Mountain Peninsula was a deep bend in the Molonglo River recognised as a good source of fish and other river subsistence. Barz (1985) undertook an assessment in close proximity to the peninsula for an extension to the National Botanic Gardens, identifying four Aboriginal sites and further confirming the importance of Black Mountain to Aboriginal people.

Another significant assessment undertaken to further our understanding of Aboriginal land use and site patterning across the area was Bullbeck and Boot (1990), who were engaged by ACT Forests to survey the Stromlo Pine Forest. Through the findings of this assessment, they identified that Aboriginal people generally favoured the occupation of lower spurs overlooking water courses. The site patterning also identified that while not as commonly used, intermediate slopes were utilised due to their ease of access. Steep terrain and areas further away from water courses were generally not considered favourable for Aboriginal people.

Navin Officer has undertaken a wide array of assessments in the region and throughout Canberra, including assessments for West Belconnen Urban Land Releases, the National Botanic Gardens, development of fire trails within all Canberra nature parks, Black Mountain, and ActewAGL development of the northern bank of the Molonglo River, all of which have relevance to the current assessment. The works at West Belconnen (Navin Officer 1995) identified four scarred trees and six artefact scatters (all low density), with all scatters located adjacent to major creek lines. The assessment undertaken for the National Botanic Gardens (Navin Officer 1995), confirmed the results of the Barz assessment and further identified one potentially scarred tree. Navin Officer (2003a) undertook survey and excavation along fire trails within all of Canberra’s nature parks, including Black Mountain, O’Connor Ridge, Bruce Ridge, Aranda Bushland, Rob Roy Range and Gungahlin Hill. Areas of highest archaeological sensitivity were landscape features such as low gradient spurs, lower slopes, and flats adjacent to major drainage lines and water courses.

Generally, Aboriginal sites across the region have been found on mid-lower slopes and creek flats in proximity to major water courses (generally <100m). The Molonglo River and associated tributaries are the most likely water resources within the region for Aboriginal people to utilise, and lower slopes in close proximity to this resource have been proven to contain Aboriginal cultural deposits.

5.4 Regional Historic Archaeological Background

Historical research has been undertaken to gain an understanding of the regional context and how the project area relates to early European land use patterns, and any non-visible or sub-surface disturbance that can be identified.

The project area was entirely located in the Parish of Weetangera. The western extent of the William Hovell Drive survey area in 1912 was owned by GE Shumack and J Kinlyside and the land was divided in to quite small holdings (between 40 and 69 acres). The other portion of this northern part of the project area was entire owned by Donald McDonald, across two separate 100 and 160 acre leases. The southern part of the project area was entirely contained within the Yarralumla / Yarrowlumla property, held by Francis Mowatt. This property was successively owned after Mowatt by the Murray, Gibes and Campbell families (Coulthard-Clark 1988).

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Table 5.1 below describes a number of studies undertaken in proximity to the current project area.

Table 5.1 Studies undertaken in close proximity to the current project area

Assessment Author Summary William Hovell Navin This assessment was undertaken to determine if there were heritage Drive Duplication Officer constraints for the proposed duplication of William Hovell Drive, between – Bindubi Street 2002 Bindubi Street and Coulter Drive (including areas that are within the to Coulter Drive – boundary of the current assessment). At this time, there were no previously Cultural Heritage recorded or heritage listed Aboriginal or historic sites or features within the Assessment project area. A predictive model for this area suggested that given the location of the roadway within the general landscape, there was some potential for artefact scatters or isolated finds. It was determined that this area was unlikely to contain significant or high density Aboriginal cultural deposits, as there were more favourable areas for Aboriginal people within the locality. The field investigation did not identify any Aboriginal or historic heritage sites or objects within the project area. The assessment recommended that the work proceed with an unexpected finds procedure put in place. National CHMA This assessment was undertaken as part of a salvage of three Aboriginal sites Arboretum 2011 (SP1, SP2 and SP3) identified along a proposed sewerage pipeline easement, Proposed located to the southwest of the Canberra International Arboretum and Sewerage Gardens (and to the east of the current project area). This assessment Pipeline: Artefact formed part of a larger overarching assessment prepared by CHMA (2008, Salvage Program 2011) and Australian Archaeological Survey Consultants (2005, 2008) for the Arboretum and Gardens, North Weston and Weston Creek residential developments. The 2005 AASC assessment across the Arboretum and Gardens identified six Aboriginal heritage and two non-Aboriginal heritage sites, which were salvaged during a 2008 assessment. The CHMA 2011 assessment salvaged the three sites identified along the proposed sewerage easement. Site types salvaged across the area generally were made up of artefact scatters, with some of these sites isolated finds. Of note was the presence of a flaked glass artefact, identified during the sewerage pipeline salvage, which demonstrates the potential for post-contact archaeology in the area. Based on the outcomes of this assessment, all sites identified in association with the Canberra International Arboretum and Gardens have been subject to archaeological salvage.

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Assessment Author Summary Molonglo Stage 3 Biosis This assessment was undertaken for the proposed Stage 3 Molonglo Valley Future Urban 2012 Future Urban releases on the north side of the Molonglo River (primarily to Releases: Detailed the south and west of the current project area). Predictive modelling Heritage suggested that the potential for Aboriginal sites within the project area was Assessment – high, and likely to be dominated by low density stone artefact scatters on Aboriginal and lower lying areas with larger sites situated on elevated terraces or slopes Historical adjacent to water courses. Scarred trees were likely to occur where remnant Heritage woodland and old growth trees remained. The potential for historical sites to occur was also identified, related to the early pastoral settlement of the Molonglo Valley. Field investigation identified 33 previously unrecorded sites consisting of artefact scatters and isolated finds. Nine Potential Archaeological Deposits (PADs) were identified, all in conjunction with artefact scatters. One new historical heritage site was identified, consisting of the Kallenia Rivers Woolshed. This was determined to meet the criteria for nomination to the ACT Heritage Register. This assessment recommended that surface collection of the identified sites be undertaken, and test excavation of the PAD areas (as well as areas outside the PAD to test the predictive model) be undertaken. Molonglo Stage 3 Biosis This assessment is the follow up to the Biosis 2012 report, and undertook Future Urban 2013 surface collection and test excavation of the identified Aboriginal sites and Releases: PADs (plus testing outside of the PAD areas) and undertook further research Subsurface and material analysis of the Kallenia Rivers Woolshed. Testing Report A total of 147 test pits were excavated across the nine PAD areas and outside and Further of the PAD areas. Surface collection resulted in 335 Aboriginal objects being Studies recovered from across the 33 sites. Test excavation provided unexpected results, with the predictive model suggesting that sub-surface deposits would be identified in gently sloping elevated areas above the Molonglo River. However, these PADs returned little to no Aboriginal cultural materials during the sub-surface testing. More generally, the PAD testing returned very little cultural material when compared to the surface scatters. The presence of surface scatters, but no distinct sub-surface deposits suggests that these areas were most likely used transiently by Aboriginal people. This is further suggested by the lack of flaking or knapping floors present in the scatters. This lack of sub-surface deposits may also reflect the level of disturbance across the area that was not previously identified. With regard to the Kallenia Rivers Woolshed, it was assessed as having high significance and recommended that it be maintained and a site specific CMP be developed to assist in the long-term curation and management of this site. Molonglo Stage 3 Biosis This assessment was undertaken for the proposed Molonglo Stage 3 Additional Areas 2014 Residential Development Area C, situated to the east of the current project Cultural Heritage area. Predictive modelling suggested that open camp sites (artefact scatters) Assessment and isolated finds are the most common site types likely to occur, with scarred trees likely in areas with remnant woodland and old growth trees. The potential for historical sites to occur was also identified, related to the early pastoral settlement of the Molonglo Valley. Field investigation identified 32 previously unrecorded and one previously recorded Aboriginal cultural heritage site, with all but one being low density artefact scatters. A number of Potential Archaeological Deposits (PADs) were identified during the assessment, commonly in association with the artefact scatters. From a historical perspective, one previously unrecorded historical site was identified (a bottle dump).

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Figure 5.2 Previous archaeological studies of the Molonglo Valley that have occurred in close proximity to the current project area © Umwelt, 2018

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5.6 Predictive Model

The following archaeological predictive models have been formulated based on the results of the desktop assessment that identified a number of Aboriginal and historic heritage sites across in the local and regional context. This site patterning has been broken down, and compared directly to the characteristics present within the current project area.

5.6.1 Aboriginal Archaeology

The environmental, ethnographic and archaeological background of the project area suggests that Aboriginal people would have likely used this area in some way, whether it is through transient movement or more established campsites. Archaeological assessments undertaken in proximity to the current project area suggest that if Aboriginal cultural heritage items are to remain, they will most likely come in the form of surface scatter or isolated finds in exposed or eroded areas (such as existing tracks or eroded slopes). The following broad model can be suggested for the project area:

• Artefact scatters and isolated finds are moderately likely to occur within the project area, predominantly in exposed or eroded areas. Given parts of the project areas are in proximity to watercourses (either Deep Creek or Molonglo River or associated tributaries), areas in close proximity (generally less than 200m) are retain the highest potential for these sites to occur. Impacts from European occupations such as vegetation clearance and topsoil removal for roads and tracks may have removed this potential in some areas.

• Areas of potential archaeological deposits (potentially associated with surface artefacts) may occur in landforms with direct access to water resources and where topsoil deposits remain extant. The presence or absence of PADs will be closely linked to the extent of disturbance.

• Scarred trees are unlikely to occur, but may exist if unidentified old growth trees or remnant woodland are present in the project area.

• Grinding grooves may be present within the project area, but given that outcrops or large boulders are generally uncommon across the soil landscapes that make up the project area, these are unlikely to occur.

• While one piece of flaked glass has been identified within the region, this is the only evidence for post- contact archaeology and as a result this type of artefact is unlikely to occur within the project area.

• Based on the regional model, other site types are unlikely to occur within the project area.

5.6.2 Historical Heritage

Based on the land use history of the project area and surrounding region, potential heritage features may include:

• Remains of nineteenth century structures, such as dwellings, stock yards and other rural farm use items. These items may remain as intact structures, ruins or archaeological deposits;

• Fence lines, that may be found along site boundaries or stock yard borders;

• Early tracks, stock routes and roads;

• Early survey markers, such as trigonometric stations.

Given the location of the project areas and based on the results of previous assessments, it is unlikely that historical heritage items will be found during field investigation for this assessment.

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6.0 Field Investigation

6.1 Survey Methodology

The main aims of the field investigation were to:

• Identify any Aboriginal objects or sites present within the project area through visual inspection.

• Identify any potential deposits or landforms of archaeological interest that may be present within the project area.

• Identify evidence of previous and existing disturbance that may have impacted any Aboriginal objects that may have been present.

• Discuss and identify any cultural values of the project area with the Representative Aboriginal Organisations.

The survey methodology involved the field team traversing the project area, which covers a number of landforms and road corridors. Due to the size of the project area, coverage of the entire area was possible through distribution of the team. Generally, the field investigation team walked between 5 – 10 metres apart, and covered all areas twice to allow for maximum opportunity to identify Aboriginal stone artefacts, or the potential for these to occur. Any areas with good ground exposure were examined for archaeological evidence such as stone artefacts scatters or isolated finds. Where identified, ground surfaces and cuttings were also examined to document landscape configuration, soil profiles, soil disturbance, erosion and potential for subsurface archaeological deposits.

The survey was split in to a northern survey parcel (William Hovell Drive survey area), and a southern survey parcel (Tuggeranong Parkway survey area). Results will be provided as such below.

6.2 Project Team and Participation

The field investigation was conducted by Ashley O’Sullivan (Senior Archaeologist) accompanied by Justin Bell (Buru Ngunawal Aboriginal Cultural Consultancy).

6.3 William Hovell Drive Survey Area

Generally, this part of the project area was covered with medium to dense grass coverage, with the only clear ground surface visibility available on existing tracks or eroded patches on hill slopes. Vegetation varied across this survey area, with the area to the south of William Hovell Drive covered with dense grass and both areas to the north of William Hovell Drive (either west or east of Coulter Drive) covered with a finer grass and much better for ground surface visibility. The only visibility available on the south side of William Hovell Drive was a cutting that has been made for sheep movement under William Hovell Drive (Plate 6.1). Also on the south side of William Hovell Drive is a small drainage line that runs directly in to Deep Creek (Plate 6.2). This part of the survey area was at the lower edge of a gentle slope that continues north to the other side of the William Hovell Drive, and follows the reaches of Deep Creek.

The north side of William Hovell Drive to the west of Coulter Drive had generally fair visibility with some exposures present amongst the consistent grass coverage. The land in this part of the survey area was generally quite flat and one of the lowest points in the general area. These features suggest that it would not have been the most appropriate location for Aboriginal occupation or use, as other more favourable elevated areas occur to the north (outside of the project area).

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An area that forms a traffic island at the intersection of Coulter Drive and William Hovell Drive was also surveyed to determine if there were any Aboriginal objects in this disturbed context, but none were found (Plate 6.3).

Similarly, the part of the survey area to the east of Coulter Drive and north of William Hovell Drive had fair visibility, with a number of tracks and slope erosion providing the best opportunity to assess the soil profile (Plates 6.4 and 6.5). The existing tracks in this area are heavily eroded / graded, and indicate that topsoil in this area is generally quite thin. While some of the landforms in this area are of a type associated with artefact scatters in other areas, they are heavily disturbed and contain limited depth of topsoil. Only one isolated find (MV-HVL-IF-1) was identified in this portion of the project area within a heavily disturbed context.

No scarred trees, potential archaeological deposits (PADs), historic heritage sites or other site types were observed within the William Hovell Drive survey area. The lack of potential archaeological deposits identified throughout this survey area is generally attributed to the lower slopes present throughout this survey area being subject to erosion from vegetation clearance on upper slopes, and topsoil removal in key areas to create tracks. In undisturbed areas, topsoil depth identified was quite low and not conducive to sub-surface archaeological deposits.

6.3.1 MV-HVL-IF-1

This site was identified on a track, at the top of a low gradient crest to the east of the project area (Plates 6.5and 6.6). Visibility immediately surrounding the isolated artefact was good, with no further Aboriginal cultural material identified. Given the site’s location on a heavily eroded track, no further sub- surface potential was identified in association with the isolated find.

Table 6.1 Artefacts in proximity to the William Hovell Drive survey area

Grid Reference Artefact Material Size (mm) 687526, 6094761 MV-HVL-IF-1 IMTC 20 x 10 x 7

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Plate 6.1 Existing sheep track and general grass Plate 6.2 General grass coverage along an existing coverage in the southwest of the William Hovell Drive drainage line, looking east on the south side of survey area. William Hovell Drive. © Umwelt, 2018 © Umwelt, 2018

Plate 6.3 View across heavily disturbed area in the Plate 6.4 Example of the grass coverage and track centre of the roadway.. exposures in the north eastern part of the © Umwelt, 2018 William Hovell Drive survey area. © Umwelt, 2018 Redacted from public display Redacted from public display

Plate 6.5 Location of MV-HVL-IF-1 (pink, centre of Plate 6.6 MV-HVL-IF-1 track) along cut and exposed track. Looking west, © Umwelt, 2018 towards proposed impact area. © Umwelt, 2018

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Given the proximity of this survey area to the Molonglo River, prior to survey this area was anticipated to have the highest potential to contain Aboriginal objects. The visibility across the survey area was generally good, with a number of heavily eroded tracks / fire trails present. The fire trail along the banks of the Molonglo River provided an indication of the level of previous disturbance that has occurred in this area (Plates 6.7 and 6.8), with the track removing much of the subsurface potential. Further to this disturbance, impacts from the development of the bridge (Plate 6.8) and erosion from a rough track were observed (Plates 6.9 and 6.10).

The lower slope that extends north in the eastern part of this survey area was heavily eroded, likely due to light vehicle movement. A number of naturally occurring cobbles were identified in this area, with signs of recent fracture due to this vehicle movement however these did not exhibit diagnostic features indicative of stone artefact manufacture. In a heavily eroded part of this track to the north of the project area, two isolated finds were identified (MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3).

No scarred trees, potential archaeological deposits (PADs), historic heritage sites or other site types were observed within the Tuggeranong Parkway survey area. The lack of potential archaeological deposits in this area can be attributed to the heavy erosion present on the lower slope identified, and the impacts from the creation of the fire trail. These two locations would have previously had archaeological potential, but with these impacts (both natural and recent), this sub-surface potential no longer remains.

6.4.1 MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3

The two sites were identified on a heavily eroded track, near a slope crest (Plates 6.10 – 6.12). Visibility immediately surrounding the isolated artefacts was good, with no further Aboriginal cultural material identified. Given the sites location on a heavily eroded track, no further sub-surface potential was identified in association with the isolated finds.

Table 6.2 Aboriginal sites identified in proximity to the Tuggeranong Parkway survey area

Grid Reference Artefact Material Size (mm) 687526, 6090413 MV-HVL-IF-2 Quartz 12 x 10 x 8 687527, 6090417 MV-HVL-IF-3 Volcanic 25 x 15 x 6

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Plate 6.7 View east across fire trail within project Plate 6.8 View west across fire trail within project area, on the banks of the Molonglo River. area, on the banks of the Molonglo River. © Umwelt, 2018 © Umwelt, 2018

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Plate 6.9 Example of the heavily eroded track, Plate 6.10 Location of MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3 looking towards project area / Molonglo River. on heavily eroded track, facing south towards the © Umwelt, 2018 Molonglo River (not visible).

© Umwelt, 2018 Redacted from public display Redacted from public display

Plate 6.11 MV-HVL-IF-3 Plate 6.12 MV-HVL-IF-3 © Umwelt, 2018 © Umwelt, 2018

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Figure 6.1 Results of the William Hovell Drive survey area © Umwelt, 2018

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Figure 6.2 Results of the Tuggeranong Parkway survey area © Umwelt, 2018

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7.0 Significance Assessment

7.1 Principles and Evaluation Criteria

Although there are no formal guidelines for the assessment of significance specified for Aboriginal archaeological places in the ACT, the definition of heritage significance under Section 10 of the ACT Heritage Act 2004 includes some of the following categorie:

• Technical, aesthetic, rarity, historical, social significance;

• Contribution to cultural history of ACT; and

• Significance in accordance with Aboriginal tradition.

7.2 Assessment of Significance

7.2.1 ACT Heritage Criteria

The ACT Heritage Act 2004 specifies twelve criteria (a - l) against which the significance of a place can be assessed.

Criteria a) it demonstrates a high degree of technical or creative achievement (or both), by showing qualities of innovation, discovery, invention or an exceptionally fine level of application of existing techniques or approaches; b) it exhibits outstanding design or aesthetic qualities valued by the community or a cultural group; c) it is important as evidence of a distinctive way of life, taste, tradition, religion, land use, custom, process, design or function that is no longer practised, is in danger of being lost or is of exceptional interest; d) it is highly valued by the community or a cultural group for reasons of strong or special religious, spiritual, cultural, educational or social associations; e) it is significant to the ACT because of its importance as part of local Aboriginal tradition; f) it is a rare or unique example of its kind, or is rare or unique in its comparative intactness; g) it is a notable example of a kind of place or object and demonstrates main characteristics of that kind; h) it has strong or special associations with a person, group, event, development or cultural phase in local or national history; i) it is significant for understanding the evolution of natural landscapes, including significant geological features, landforms, biota or natural processes; j) it has provided, or is likely to provide, information that will contribute significantly to a wider understanding of the natural or cultural history of the ACT because of its use or potential use as a research site or object, teaching site or object, type, locality or benchmark site; k) for a place—it exhibits unusual richness, diversity or significant transitions of flora, fauna or natural landscapes and their elements;

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7.2.2 Scientific Significance

Scientific significance is determined by assessing the research potential, educational value, rarity and representativeness of archaeological sites. Research potential considers the contents of the site and the condition of the site, with sites that contain a large range of cultural materials that are in excellent condition valued inherently higher than those with little to no cultural material. Given that the three sites identified during this assessment are all isolated finds within disturbed contexts, their research potential is low. The education value of the sites identified generally ties to their identification within the disturbed contexts, and not necessarily through future research outcomes. As a result, while there is educational value in these sites, it only adds a small amount of value to the overall archaeological picture. Representativeness relates to the regional distribution of site types, and how the site being assessed relates to that. The three sites identified were all isolated finds, a common site type throughout the local and regional area and do not present any different information to our understanding of Aboriginal people’s use of the landscape. This also ties into the rarity aspect of significance, as this is a common site type, it is not considered rare within the local area.

As a result, all three sites are considered to have low scientific significance.

7.3 Aboriginal Community Cultural Significance

Sites of potential antiquity and which contain cultural material are frequently identified as of importance to Aboriginal people, and as such the site can be considered to have associated cultural values. As part of the consultation undertaken for this assessment, the RAOs have been asked to provide any comment on the cultural value of the sites identified or the project area more generally.

On site discussions with Justin Bell of BNAC reflected that more significant sites were identified to the south of the current project area (when discussing the William Hovell Drive survey area), as part of the Biosis (2014) assessment. The landforms in this area more closely match those identified in the predictive model, and this land falls closer to Molonglo River. He also discussed that important sites were found in other areas nearby and that the area surveyed was likely to have been used transiently rather than for long-term camps as there was no major watercourse.

No comment on the cultural significance of the project area was provided by the RAOs.

7.4 Significance of the Newly Identified Sites

Table 7.1 presents the significance assessment for the three newly identified sites in close proximity to the project area. Table 7.1 Significance Assessment of the three sites identified

Site Name Scientific Significance Cultural Significance Heritage Register Criteria MV-HVL-IF-1 Low Low C, E MV-HVL-IF-2 Low Low C, E MV-HVL-IF-3 Low Low C, E

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8.0 Management Strategy and Conclusions

8.1 Management Strategy and Recommendations

The development of heritage management recommendations in the context of the proposed impacts in the project area are based on the significance or heritage values of the area, the relevant legislative protection and the feasibility of avoiding impacts to heritage items.

Based on the findings of this report, the project area is best described as having low potential for Aboriginal objects or sites within the curtilage. The northern part of the project area is generally on the lower parts of low gradient slopes, and has been subject to various impacts including damming of Deep Creek, road infrastructure development and various horse trail impacts (construction of fence lines, tracks, etc). The southern part of the project area has been subject to impacts through the development of fire trails, the bridge across the Molonglo River and existing high voltage infrastructure. Three previously unrecorded Aboriginal sites were identified in proximity to the project area, and their management should form part of the overall project approvals. As they are outside the project area and will not be subject to impact by the project, these artefacts can remain in situ and protective measures can be adopted to ensure that the artefacts come to no harm during construction.

No historical heritage items or potential for these to occur was observed during the field investigation.

While no Aboriginal or historical heritage sites were identified within the project area, this does not preclude the potential for unanticipated discoveries occurring during construction.

The recommendations below are made to minimise the impact of the project on Aboriginal cultural heritage and to ensure compliance with relevant legislative requirements. We highlight that the preferred heritage outcome is to avoid impacts to heritage items.

• The three newly identified sites (MV-HVL-IF-1, MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3) should be inspected and fenced off prior to construction being undertaken (see Figure 6.1 and Figure 6.2). This fencing should give each site a 5m perimeter, to ensure that no direct or indirect impacts can occur during construction. Upon completion of construction, this fencing should be removed.

• No further Aboriginal or historical archaeological work is recommended, and the project may proceed with caution. Should unanticipated discoveries be made during construction, work should cease and the protocols provided in Section 9.0 – Unanticipated Discovery Plan should be followed.

• The three newly identified sites (MV-HVL-IF-1, MV-HVL-IF-2 and MV-HVL-IF-3) will be registered with ACT Heritage.

• Following finalisation, a copy of this report should be provided to ACT Heritage for their review and approval.

If further changes are made to the project which require impacts outside of areas previously investigated or the project area assessed in this report, further assessment should be undertaken to identify and appropriately manage Aboriginal and Historic heritage objects/sites/place that may occur within any additional areas.

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9.0 Unanticipated Discovery Plan (UDP)

No Aboriginal archaeological sites have been discovered in the project area. Although there is a low potential that Aboriginal archaeological material will be discovered during construction works, it is possible that Aboriginal archaeological material may be present.

Based on current understanding of archaeological sites in this landscape generally, such sites are likely to be low density scatters of artefacts (densities <2 artefact/m²). This site type is generally classified as being of low significance and conservation value.

If previously unrecorded Aboriginal archaeological material is exposed during the construction works, work in the vicinity of the archaeological objects must cease and the site must be reported to the ACT heritage Council. The ACT Heritage council will determine any additional requirements.

Unanticipated discoveries include all Aboriginal site types (although most site types are considered to be very unlikely, refer Section 5.6.1). This includes (but may not be limited to), low, moderate to high density artefact scatters, scarred trees, stone procurement (quarry) sites, ochre deposits and skeletal remains (burials).

Please Note: There are two different processes presented for the mitigation of these anticipated and unanticipated discoveries. The first process applies for the discovery of Aboriginal or historic places, objects or features (refer to Table 9.1), which include all site types mentioned above, with the exception of skeletal remains (burials). The second process applies exclusively to the discovery of skeletal remains (burials) (refer to Table 9.2). There are very strict protocols for the discovery of human skeletal material. Human skeletal remains are considered to be a potential crime scene until it is confirmed by police that this is not the case.

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Table 9.1 Process for Discovery of Aboriginal Places, Objects or Features

Step Details 1 If any project personnel, contractors or subcontractors believe that they have discovered or uncovered Aboriginal or historical places, objects or features, the individual should notify the person in charge of the activity (Site Supervisor) that is currently under way. The Site Supervisor is to inform operators that are working in the general vicinity of the area that earth disturbance works should stop immediately. Remember health and safety requirements when approaching machinery operators. 2 A buffer protection zone of 20 m x 20 m should be established around the suspected Aboriginal or historical places, objects or features. No unauthorised entry or earth disturbance will be allowed within this ‘archaeological zone’ until such time as the suspected Aboriginal places, objects or features have been assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures have been carried out. 3 The discovery must be reported to the ACT Heritage Council within five working days (in accordance with Section 51 of the Heritage Act 2004). The Site Supervisor should do this. The Site Supervisor should also contact a qualified archaeologist to conduct a heritage assessment of the material. 4 A heritage assessment should be conducted by a qualified archaeologist in consultation with the RAOs (in accordance with Section 75 of the Heritage Act 2004). If possible, this assessment should be completed within 1 working week of the discovery. 5 Based on the findings of the assessment, appropriate management recommendations should be developed for the Aboriginal places, objects or features. These recommendations should be submitted to the ACT Heritage Unit for review and endorsement. 6 Once endorsement has been obtained, the prescribed management recommendations should be carried out by the appropriate personnel. If salvage collection or excavation of archaeological material is required, the work is to be done in accordance with the regulations set out in the Heritage Act 2014 and with appropriate archaeological procedure. The archaeologist may retain custody of salvaged Aboriginal archaeological material for up to three months for analysis. If a longer time is needed, the archaeologist must consult with the RAOs and seek approval from the ACT Heritage Council. When analysis is complete, all material, labelled, bagged and catalogued is to be provided to ACT Heritage of the RAOs, together with a management plan for where it will be placed. 7 On the completion of the prescribed works, the relevant authorities (ACT Heritage Unit) should advise the Site Supervisor (or other Project Personnel) that construction works may recommence in the ‘archaeological zone’. If there are further constraints to construction works in the ‘archaeological zone’, then the Site Supervisor should be informed of these. It is the responsibility of the Site Supervisor to inform construction crews of these constraints. Generally, construction work may recommence within an area of exclusion when: • The appropriate protective measures have been implemented • Relevant archaeological material recording forms have been completed • All parties agree there is no other prudent or feasible course of action • Any relevant disputes have been resolved

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Table 9.2 Process for Unanticipated Discovery of Skeletal Material

Step Details 1 Under no circumstances should the suspected skeletal remains be touched or disturbed. If these are human remains, then this area potentially is a crime scene. Tampering with a crime scene is a criminal offence. 2 Any person discovering suspected skeletal remains should notify operators that are working in the general vicinity of the area that earth disturbing works should stop immediately. Remember health and safety requirements when approaching machinery operators. The person who discovers the suspected skeletal remains must inform the Site Supervisor immediately. 3 A buffer protection zone of 50 m x 50 m should be established around the suspected skeletal remains. No unauthorised entry or earth disturbance will be allowed within this buffer zone until such time as the suspected skeletal remains have been assessed. 4 The relevant authorities (ACT Police and Coroner’s Office) are to be contacted and informed of the discovery. If there is reason to believe that the remains are Aboriginal, the Site Supervisor must also notify ACT Heritage Council and RAOs. If the skeletal remains are suspected to be of Aboriginal origin, the authorities may decide to seek the advice of an archaeologist or appropriate expert in relation to the discovery. No media is to be contacted in regard to the discovery of human remains. No photos of human remains are to be taken without appropriate approval of the RAOs. 5 Should the skeletal remains be declared an Aboriginal burial site, the following procedures will be implemented: • An archaeologist, in consultation with the RAOs should carry out an assessment of the skeletal remains • Based on the findings of the assessment, appropriate management recommendations should be developed. These recommendations should be submitted (in the form of a Conservation and Management Plan) to the ACT Heritage Unit and the Heritage Council for review and endorsement • Once endorsement has been obtained, the prescribed management recommendations should be carried out by the appropriate personnel • The treatment of salvaged Aboriginal human skeletal remains must be in accordance with the direction of the RAOs and Act heritage Council. • On the completion of the prescribed works, the relevant authorities (ACT Heritage Unit) should advise the Site Supervisor (or other Project Personnel) that construction works may recommence in the ‘archaeological zone’. If there are further constraints to construction works in the ‘archaeological zone’, then the Site Supervisor should be informed of these. It is the responsibility of the Site Supervisor to inform construction crews of these constraints. • As noted for non-skeletal finds, certain criteria must be met before works can recommence.

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10.0 References

Avery, S. (1994). Aboriginal and European Encounter in the Canberra Region: a question of change and the archaeological record. Canberra ACT: Attorney Generals Dept.

Barz, R. (1985). An Archaeological Survey of the Site of the Proposed Extension to the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra. Report to NCDC.

Biosis. (2012). Molonglo Stage 3 Future Urban Releases: Detailed Heritage Assessment -Aboriginal and Historical . Report to Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate.

Biosis. (2014).

Bulbeck, C. &. (1990). Stromlo Forest Cultural Resource Survey and Conservation Plan. Report to ACT Parks and Conservation Service.

Coulthard - Clark, C. (1988). Gables, Ghosts and Governor Generals: The Historic House at Yarralumla, Canberra. Sydney: Allen and Unwin.

Cultural Heritage Management Australia. (2008). Coombs, Wright and Environs Detailed Heritage Assessment Report No 0901. Report to ACT Planning and Land Authority.

Cultural Heritage Management Australia. (2011). National Arboretum Sewerage Pipeline Extension Conservation Management Plan. Report to Dept. of Land and Property Services.

Flood, J. (1973). The Moth Hunters - Investigations towards a prehistory of the South Eastern Highlands of Australia. Canberra: PHD Thesis.

Flood, J. (1980). The Moth Hunters: Aboriginal Prehistory of the Australian Alps. Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.

Gillespie, L. (1984). Aborigines of the Canberra Region. Canberra: Lyell Gillespie.

Jenkins, J. (2000). Soil Landscapes of the Canberra 1:100 000 Sheet. Queanbeyan: Department of Land and Water Conservation.

Kabaila, P. (1997). Belconnens Aboriginal Past: A glimpse into the Archaeology of the Australian Capital Territory. Canberra: Black Mountain Projects.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (1991). West Belconnen Urban Release Area Archaeological Assessment. Report to Kinhill Pty Ltd.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (2002). Gungahlin Drive Extension, ACT: Cultural Heritage Assessment. A report to WP Brown and Partners for the ACT Dept of Urban Services.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (2003). A Cultural Heritage Assessment of some proposed Gungahlin Drive Extension Easements in the Glenloch Interchange Area. Report to ACT Roads.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (2003). Investigations of Aboriginal Places along Fire Trails in Canberra Nature Parks. Report to ACT Heritage Unit.

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Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (2004). Gungahlin Drive Extension Tree Clearing and Ground Disturbance Heritage Protocol Report. Report to ACT Roads.

Navin Officer Heritage Consultants. (2011). Relocation of Emergency Services Agency Sites. Report to peckvonhartel.

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ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

Molonglo Stage 3 132KV Transmission Line Relocation

FINAL

March 2019

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

C calibre CONSULTING

ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

Molonglo Stage 3 132KV Transmission Line Relocation

FINAL

Prepared by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited on behalf of Calibre Consulting (ACT)

Project Director: Karina Carwardine Project Manager: Amanda Mulherin Technical Director: David Moore Report No. 8139B_R02_V2 Date: March 2019

Canberra

PO Box 6135 2/99 Northbourne Avenue Turner ACT 2612

Ph. 1300 793 267

www.umwelt.com.au

This report was prepared using Umwelt’s ISO 9001 certified Quality Management System. IQuality ISO 9001

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Disclaimer This document has been prepared for the sole use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that for which it was supplied by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (Umwelt). No other party should rely on this document without the prior written consent of Umwelt.

Umwelt undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to any third party who may rely upon or use this document. Umwelt assumes no liability to a third party for any inaccuracies in or omissions to that information. Where this document indicates that information has been provided by third parties, Umwelt has made no independent verification of this information except as expressly stated. ©Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd Document Status

Rev No. Reviewer Approved for Issue

Name Date Name Date

FINAL Karina Carwardine 14 March 2019 Karina Carwardine 14 March 2019 ecological assessment Introduction 8139b_R02_V2.docx 4

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1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Project Description 1 1.2 Project Area 2 2.0 Methods 4 2.1 Literature Review 4 2.2 Field Assessment 4 2.2.1 Meandering Transects 4 2.2.2 Rapid Vegetation Assessments 4 2.2.3 Habitat Tree and Fauna Habitat Features Survey 5 2.2.4 Opportunistic Fauna Survey 5 3.0 Results 6 3.1 Literature Review 6 3.1.1 ACTmapi Significant Plants and Animals 6 3.1.2 Protected Matters Search Tool Results 6 3.1.3 Existing Reports 7 3.1.4 Summary of Literature Review 8 3.2 Field Assessment 10 3.2.1 Vegetation Communities 10 3.2.2 Fauna Habitat Features 15 3.2.3 Opportunistic Observations 16 4.0 Threatened Species and Ecological Communities 18 4.1 Threatened Ecological Communities 18 4.1.1 EPBC Act Listed Ecological Communities 19 4.1.2 NC Act Listed Ecological Communities 20 4.2 Threatened Flora 22 4.3 Threatened and Migratory Fauna 22 4.3.1 Reptiles and Amphibians 22 4.3.2 Birds 22 4.3.3 Mammals 23 4.3.4 Invertebrates 23 5.0 Conclusion 24 6.0 References 25

ecological assessment 8139b_R02_V2.docx

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Figure 1.1 Project Area 3 Figure 3.1 Previously Identified Threatened Ecological Communities and Threatened Species Habitat 9 Figure 3.2 Vegetation Communities Identified in Field Survey 11 Figure 3.3 Key Fauna Habitat Features 17 Figure 4.1 Zones that Potentially Support EPBC Act or NC Act Box-gum Woodland 21

Tables

Table 3.1 PMST Report Summary 6 Table 4.1 Vegetation Communities with the Potential to Meet EPBC Act Box-Gum Woodland Criteria 18 Table 4.2 EPBC Act Box-gum Woodland Condition Criteria Assessment 19 Table 4.3 NC Act Box-gum Woodland Condition Criteria Assessment 20

Appendices

Appendix A Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment 27 Appendix B PMST Report 47

ecological assessment 8139b_R02_V2.docx

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Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (Umwelt) were engaged to prepare an ecological assessment to support the environmental approvals for the proposed relocation of 132kV transmission lines currently located within the Molonglo Valley of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and construction of a new 132kV sub-station (the Project, described in Section 1.1). This assessment will form the basis for the following processes:

 A request for an exemption from requiring an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under Section 211 of the Planning and Development Act 2007 (PD Act). This will be submitted to the ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) seeking EIS exemption for the Project on all Territory Land outside of existing approval boundaries (see Figure 1.1); and

 An application for Works Approval for the components of the Project that occur on Designated Land (see Figure 1.1). This will be submitted to the National Capital Authority (NCA) for assessment.

A large proportion of the Project occurs within the boundary of an existing EIS exemption approval, thus does not require further assessment under the Impact Track of the PD Act. The Molonglo Stage 3 EIS exemption was approved by the Minister for Planning and Land Management on 8 May 2018. This existing EIS exemption approval is for the residential development of Molonglo Stage 3 and includes the decommissioning of the existing transmission lines and sub-station and the construction of the new transmission lines within the boundary of the Molonglo Stage 3 Future Urban Area (FUA) (Figure 1.1).

The objectives of this report are to:

 Verify existing vegetation and/or habitat mapping where available and provide vegetation mapping in any unmapped areas;

 Determine whether any matters protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) (EPBC Act) or the Nature Conservation Act 2014 (ACT) (NC Act) occur or are likely to occur;

 Identify potential nesting and habitat trees; and

 Record any opportunistic fauna observations made during field survey. 1.1 Project Description

The existing overhead 132kV transmission lines and proposed location of the new Molonglo zone sub- station (sub-station) are currently located within the Molonglo Stage 3 FUA (hereafter referred to as Molonglo Stage 3), proposed for residential development over the next 25 years (Umwelt, 2017). The aim of the Project is to relocate existing overhead 132kV transmission lines and proposed location of the sub- station to a new position that is conducive to the future residential use of the land.

The existing transmission lines are above ground, supported by steel towers. The new transmission lines will consist entirely of underground cabling, emerging in three locations to connect to the existing overhead lines and into the sub-station. Connection to existing transmission lines will occur to the east of Kama Nature Reserve (within Molonglo Stage 3), at the north-eastern end of the alignment (north of William Hovell Drive), and at the south-eastern end of the alignment. Where the proposed alignment crosses William Hovell Drive and the Tuggeranong Parkway, existing underpasses or culverts will be used. If this is not possible, under-boring will occur to limit traffic disruptions and damage to road surfaces.

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Following completion of construction of the new underground transmission lines, the existing overhead lines will be decommissioned and demolished. 1.2 Project Area

The Project Area for this ecological assessment is shown in Figure 1.1. The Project Area excludes Molonglo Stage 3 and includes the following elements:

 Two versions of the proposed new alignment with a 40 metre assessment buffer;

 The proposed new location of the sub-station, including the 130 square metre fenced compound; and

 The existing electricity easement.

It is noted that the Project will not impact the entirety of these areas, rather that this ecological assessment will provide information regarding the environmental context for the Project to support assessment.

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Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

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This ecological assessment was undertaken in two stages:

1. Literature review of available databases and existing reports; and

2. Field survey.

The methods for these stages are described in detail in the following sections. 2.1 Literature Review

A literature review and database search was undertaken to identify the range of threatened and migratory species, endangered populations, and threatened ecological communities (TECs) that could potentially occur within the Project Area.

The following databases were searched based on a ten kilometre radius encompassing the Project Area:

 ACT Government (2018) ACTmapi ‘Significant Species, Vegetation Communities and Registered Trees’ layer; and

 Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) (2018) ‘Protected Matters Search Tool’.

Existing reports and available mapping for the Project Area and adjacent areas were reviewed to identify additional records of threatened species and ecological communities nearby. 2.2 Field Assessment

A field assessment was conducted to verify existing mapping, provide vegetation mapping in any unmapped areas, identify whether any areas meet classification criteria as threatened ecological communities under the EPBC Act or NC Act, identify potential nesting and habitat trees, and record any opportunistic fauna observations within the Project Area.

The Project Area was surveyed on foot using general meandering transects and semi-quantitative rapid vegetation assessments. Any opportunistic fauna observations were recorded. All flora encountered during these surveys were identified to genus or species level, while fauna was identified to species level.

2.2.1 Meandering Transects

Meandering transects were walked across much of the Project Area to map vegetation types and significant fauna habitat. Opportunistic sampling of vegetation was undertaken along these transects, particularly searches for threatened or otherwise significant species, endangered populations, and threatened ecological communities.

2.2.2 Rapid Vegetation Assessments

Rapid vegetation assessments assessed cover-abundance of dominant upper-, mid-, and lower storey flora species across a patch. At each distinct patch of vegetation, roughly 5 to 10 minutes was spent examining the groundcover, mid-storey, canopy, and emergent layers to identify the patch and to assess its extent.

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Any substantial changes in vegetation that were insufficient to be classified as a new patch (for example, a gradient from a high to medium diverse groundcover across the patch) were noted.

Rapid vegetation assessment results were used to assist with vegetation community delineation and preliminarily identification of threatened ecological communities.

2.2.3 Habitat Tree and Fauna Habitat Features Survey

The location and species of all habitat trees was recorded using a handheld GPS. Habitat trees included hollow-bearing trees and those that may provide habitat for specific fauna species (e.g. bats).

Any hollows identified were described by the following size categories based on their estimated diameter:

 Tiny: less than 25 millimetres;

 Small: 26 to 50 millimetres;

 Medium: 51 to 100 millimetres;

 Large: 101 to 300 millimetres; and

 Massive: greater than 300 millimetres.

The results from the habitat tree survey were cross-referenced with the results from the literature review.

Additional habitat features were opportunistically recorded during the field survey.

2.2.4 Opportunistic Fauna Survey

Fauna species were surveyed opportunistically throughout the field survey. Observation techniques included intermittent pausing and listening for bird calls and inspection of suitable habitat features where possible.

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3.1 Literature Review

3.1.1 ACTmapi Significant Plants and Animals

The ACTmapi (ACT Government, 2018) Significant Species, Vegetation Communities and Registered Trees layers were overlayed on the Project Area. The following records were identified:

 One endangered ecological community;

 Four threatened flora species;

 Two rare or important flora species; and

 Habitat for one threatened fauna species.

No registered trees were identified within or adjacent to the Project Area.

A likelihood of occurrence assessment for these protected matters is provided in Appendix A.

3.1.2 Protected Matters Search Tool Results

The Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) (DoEE, 2018) was used on 6 August 2018 to produce a report that identified the matters of national environmental significance (MNES) protected under the EPBC Act that may occur within the Project Area.

The results of the PMST are provided in Table 3.1 and the report is provided in Appendix B. A detailed likelihood of occurrence of these MNES is provided in Appendix A.

Table 3.1 PMST Report Summary

MNES Records Identified Comment in the PMST

World Heritage Properties None Not applicable. Not addressed further in this report.

National Heritage Places 4 The Project will not occur in the vicinity or line of sight of National Heritage Places. These Places will not be impacted by the Project.

Wetlands of International 4 The Project is located between 600 and Importance 900 kilometres upstream of the identified wetlands of international importance. At this scale, the Project is minor and there is no potential for any measurable adverse environmental impacts to occur as a result of the Project.

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MNES Records Identified Comment in the PMST

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park None Not applicable.

Commonwealth Marine Area None Not applicable.

Listed Threatened Ecological 2 The potential for listed threatened Communities ecological communities to occur within the Project Area is discussed in detail in Section 4.1 and Appendix A.

Listed Threatened Species 39 The potential for listed threatened species to occur within the Project Area is discussed in detail in Section 4.2, 4.3 and Appendix A.

Listed Migratory Species 14 The potential for listed migratory species to occur within the Project Area is discussed in detail in Section 4.3 and Appendix A.

3.1.3 Existing Reports

The following reports were reviewed as part of the ecological assessment:  Molonglo Valley Strategic Assessment and supporting documents, primarily ‘Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance’ (ACTPLA, 2011) and ‘Molonglo Valley Vegetation Survey Baseline Condition Assessment’ (ELA, 2013). These documents provide the basis for development within the Molonglo Valley, including the protection of key environmental values in designated offsets.

 Biosis (2016) ‘Molonglo Stage 3 Development Area: Vegetation Classification and Condition Assessment’. This report classified the vegetation and its condition in the Molonglo Stage 3 area, excluding certain previously mapped patches (Kama interface, Patch ‘C’, ‘J’ and ‘GG’).

 Biosis (2014) ‘Belconnen – Aranda Snow Gums/Glenloch Ecological Values and Constraints Assessment’. This report classified vegetation types, extent, and condition and identified the potential habitat for threatened flora and fauna that may occur within the vicinity of William Hovell Drive, Caswell Drive, and the Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve.

 Capital Ecology (2016) ‘Kama Interface Management Strategy’. This report was prepared to provide advice regarding the ongoing management of the buffer between the Kama Nature Reserve and Molonglo 3 urban development. It included vegetation mapping that updated mapping completed by Umwelt (2013a).

 Capital Ecology (2015) ‘William Hovell Drive Investigation Area – Pink-tailed Worm-lizard Survey and Habitat Mapping’. Capital Ecology undertook surveys for pink-tailed worm-lizard (Aprasia parapulchella) in an area north of William Hovell Drive, including mapping of potential and confirmed habitat. Preliminary vegetation types were also determined and habitat trees mapped.

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 SMEC (2017) ‘Round Hill Station Vegetation Assessment’. SMEC undertook a vegetation and potential threatened species habitat assessment for Round Hill Station, located north of William Hovell Drive either side of Coulter Drive, excluding the road reserves.

 Umwelt (2013b) ‘Review of ACT Environmental Offsets Calculator Stage 2’. As part of a review of the ACT Environmental Offsets Calculator, Umwelt collated field data for a number of woodland patches within the Molonglo Stage 3 area and Kama Nature Reserve.

 Umwelt (2013c) ‘Vegetation Mapping for Kama Nature Reserve, Molonglo’. This report included mapping within the Kama Nature Reserve.

 Umwelt (2014) ‘Molonglo Stage 3: Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation, Environmental and Heritage Constraints’ and (2016) ‘Molonglo High Voltage Electricity Infrastructure Relocation’. This report incorporated information from a range of sources to identify ecological constraints present within the Molonglo Valley in the context of the proposed relocation.

This literature review provided the regional context to the assessment, and helped to target the field surveys.

3.1.4 Summary of Literature Review

The broader landscape surrounding the Project Area is known to support two EPBC Act listed critically endangered ecological communities:

 Natural Temperate Grassland of the South Eastern Highlands (natural temperate grassland); and

 White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy woodland and Derived Native Grassland (box-gum woodland).

The ACT equivalent (NC Act) endangered ecological communities: Natural Temperate Grassland and Yellow Box – Red Gum Grassy Woodland have also been recorded in the Molonglo Valley.

Natural temperate grassland has been recorded in Kama Nature Reserve (Umwelt, 2013a; 2013c; ELA, 2010) and in small patches in the lower elevation areas of Molonglo Stage 3 (Biosis, 2016).

Box-gum woodland has been recorded more broadly throughout the Molonglo Valley in both woodland and derived grassland states (examples include Biosis, 2014 and 2016; Capital Ecology, 2015; and Umwelt, 2013b). Box-gum woodland has been previously mapped immediately adjacent to the Project Area (Figure 3.1).

Pink-tailed worm-lizard habitat has been mapped immediately adjacent to the Project Area, north of William Hovell Drive (Figure 3.1).

Threatened woodland birds are known to utilise box-gum woodland within the Molonglo Stage 3 area, including the Project Area on a transitory and opportunistic basis and the Kama Nature Reserve for foraging and nesting.

Potential habitat for EPBC Act and NC Act threatened invertebrate species golden sun moth (Synemon plana) was also identified in the literature review. This habitat has not been surveyed for the species, therefore occupancy is unknown.

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Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

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3.2.1 Vegetation Communities

A field survey of the Project Area was completed on 19 April 2018. This targeted the area of the zone sub- station and a preliminary alignment. Following this survey, the alignment was further modified to reduce impacts to identified ecological values. An additional field survey was completed on 2 August 2018 to target any un-surveyed areas within the alignment. Meandering transects and 18 semi-quantitative rapid vegetation assessments were completed across the Project Area (Figure 3.2).

The field survey identified 11 vegetation categories within the Project Area. These are shown on Figure 3.2 and described in the following sections.

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 681322 682822 684322 685822 687322 INSET 2 HOVELL WILLIAMDRIVE °! GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55Zone MGA 1994 GDA

SEE INSET 1 COULTER DRIVE 6095187 6093687

SEE INSET 2 6092187

URIARRA ROAD

TUGGERANONG PARKWAY

km 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 6090687 INSET 1 6089187 COTTER ROAD

km 0 0.25 0.5 1 File Name: R02-8139B_003 20/08/2018 1:12:57 R02-8139B_003 PM 20/08/2018 Name: File km 1:40000 at A4 0 0.5 1 2 6087687 Legend Project Area Cl Project Groundcover Mixed - Plantings Arboretum Non-Local and Local Mixed - Plantings Vegetation Communities Vegetation Grassland DNative Derived ground) bare track, access (road, Other Disturbed/Exotic Vegetation -Disturbed/Exotic Roads FIGURE 3.2 ACT16 Eucalyptus melliodora –E. blakelyi –E. melliodora Eucalyptus ACT16 Tableland Grassy Woodland Grassy Tableland Pasture Mixed -Watercourse Vegetation Communities ACT18 Tableland Dry Shru bby Woodland ShruDry bby Tableland -D ACT18 Plantation -D Pine Identified in Field Survey Arboretum Plantings - Exotic Groundcover Exotic - DPlantings Arboretum Woodland Local - -Plantings Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

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Tableland dry shrubby woodland was found to occur north of William Hovell Drive in the east of the Project Area, primarily beyond the unfenced road reserve (at least 20 metres from the road) (Figure 3.2). Approximately 0.6 hectares was recorded within the Project Area, however it is noted that this community extends north beyond the Project Area boundary.

The community is characterised by an open woodland comprising mature and regenerating brittle gum (Eucalyptus mannifera), Blakely’s red gum (E. blakelyi), broad-leaved peppermint (E. dives), candlebark (E. rubida), and apple box (E. bridgesiana).

The mid-storey comprises blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon), black wattle (A. mearnsii), silver wattle (A. dealbata), sweet bursaria (Bursaria spinosa), and regeneration of canopy species. Some of these shrubs are believed to have been planted.

The understorey is co-dominated by exotic and native species. The native grasses and forbs include kangaroo grass (Themeda australis), redleg grass (Bothriochloa macra), common bluebell (Wahlenbergia communis), tall spear grass (Austrostipa bigeniculata), rough spear grass (A. scaber), rock fern (Cheilanthes sieberi), billy buttons (Chrysocephalum apiculatum), spiky-mat rush (Lomandra longifolia), pale flax-lily (Dianella longifolia), purple wiregrass (Aristida ramosa), spreading panic (Paspalidium distans), yellow rush lily (Tricoryne elatior), spiky mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia), daphne heath (Brachyloma daphnoides), raspwort (Gonocarpus tetragynus), many-flowered mat-rush (Lomandra multiflora), wheat grass (Elymus scaber), hairy panic (Panicum effusum), wallaby grasses (Rytidosperma spp.), slender tick-trefoil (Desmodium varians), crane’s-bill (Geranium solanderi), new Holland daisy (Vittadinia cuneata), paper daisy (Xerochrysum viscosum), downy sheep’s burr (Acaena ovina), and urn heath (Melichrus urceolata).

The exotic grasses and forbs include wild oats (Avena fatua), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea), skeleton weed (Chondrilla juncea), phalaris (Phalaris aquatica), spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare), fuzzy mullein (Verbascum thapsus), briar rose (Rosa rubiginosa), and purple salsify (Tragopogon pratensis).

3.2.1.2 ACT16 Eucalyptus melliodora – E. blakelyi Tableland Grassy Woodland

Eucalyptus melliodora – E. blakelyi Tableland Grassy Woodland occurs in small patches north of William Hovell Drive and along Coulter Drive, west from patches of ACT18 (Figure 3.2). Approximately 0.8 hectares was recorded within the Project Area. The patches are small and disjunct, characterised by Blakely’s red gum, yellow box, and red box (Eucalyptus polyanthemos)

The community contains a sparse midstorey of introduced shrubs: briar rose and Cootamundra wattle (Acacia baileyana).

The understorey is dominated by exotic forbs and grasses, including ribwort plantain, African lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula), phalaris, alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides), blackberry (Rubus anglocandicans) and St. John’s wort. Native grasses and forbs also occurred at very low density (around five per cent), including tall spear grass, rough spear grass, hairy panic, redleg grass, tall sedge (Carex appressa), new Holland daisy, and leafless rush (Juncus filicaulis).

The community grades towards a higher proportion of natives in the understorey (about 70 per cent) to the west.

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A total of approximately 7.5 hectares of derived native grassland was recorded within the Project Area, all of which is generally located along William Hovell Drive (Figure 3.2). These areas are dominated by perennial native species (around 70 per cent cover) and are of varying quality. The condition of this community directly results from the disturbance history (namely grazing) of the area.

The large patch, west of Coulter Drive, was assessed as high quality, due to the presence of diverse, non- grass species. The native understorey species included kangaroo grass, rock fern, spiky mat-rush, daphne heath, purple wiregrass, raspwort, many-flowered mat-rush, wheat grass, tall spear grass, rough spear grass, hairy panic, wallaby grasses, redleg grass, leafless rush, slender tick-trefoil, yellow rush lily, billy buttons, new Holland daisy, urn heath, and common tussock-grass (Poa labillardierei). Exotic understorey species were wild oats, purple salsify, common sow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus), sheep’s sorrel (Acetosella vulgaris), crane’s-bill, briar rose, spear thistle, downy sheep’s burr, common centaury (Centaurium erythraea), flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata), St. John’s wort, skeleton weed, hare’s foot-clover (Trifolium arvense), and ribwort plantain.

The two small patches located north of William Hovell Drive and east of Coulter Drive were assessed as low quality, due to the absence of a diversity of native forbs. Native understorey species observed in these patches included tall spear grass, rough spear grass, hairy panic, redleg grass, tall sedge, and leafless rush. No other native forbs were observed. Exotic grasses and forbs recorded included ribwort plantain, African lovegrass, phalaris, alligator weed, blackberry, and St John’s wort.

The small patches located south of William Hovell Drive were assessed as low quality, due to a low diversity of forbs, however are contiguous with previously mapped patch of box-gum woodland in ‘Patch C’ (ELA, 2013).

3.2.1.4 Mixed Native and Exotic Pasture

Mixed native and exotic pasture occurs primarily in the blocks north of William Hovell Drive (generally outside of the road reserve), where it intergrades with ACT16 north of the Project Area (SMEC, 2017). An additional patch occurs in the central portion of the Project Area between the National Arboretum and the exotic pine plantations (mapped by Biosis, 2016) (Figure 3.2). A total of approximately 21.4 hectares was recorded within the Project Area. The condition of this community directly results from the disturbance history (namely grazing) of the area.

A sparse mid-storey of exotic briar rose was recorded in this vegetation community.

The understorey is co-dominated by native and exotic species. Exotic grass and forb species included ribwort plantain, African lovegrass, phalaris, alligator weed, blackberry, and St. John’s wort. Native grass and forb species recorded included tall spear grass, rough spear grass, hairy panic, redleg grass, tall sedge, and leafless rush.

3.2.1.5 Local Woodland Plantings

Local woodland plantings are present on the north-western corner of the Coulter Drive and William Hovell Drive intersection (Figure 3.2). These plantings occur in two patches, totalling approximately one hectare.

The planted tree species are typical of box-gum woodlands (yellow box, red box, and apple box); and there is no mid-storey present. The understorey is dominated by exotic species, including phalaris, African lovegrass, Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana), cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), ribwort plantain, and St John’s wort.

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Scattered native grasses comprised a minor component of the understorey, including tall spear grass and redleg grass.

3.2.1.6 Mixed Local and Non-local Plantings

Mixed local and non-local plantings occur in three general portions of the Project Area (Figure 3.2):

 Along William Hovell Drive, east from Coulter Drive;

 The southern portion of the National Arboretum; and

 A small patch adjacent to the Molonglo River, in the south of the Project Area.

These plantings total approximately 9.3 hectares within the Project Area, and generally grade into adjacent vegetation.

The upper strata of this vegetation community is characterised by a mixture of local tree species that do not naturally co-occur or occur in this landscape position. Species included brittle gum, apple box, broad- leaved peppermint, candlebark, ribbon gum (Eucalyptus viminalis), snow gum (E. pauciflora), red box, yellow box, and Blakely’s red gum.

The mid-storey comprises a dense cover of exotic and native local and non-local shrubs. Exotic species included briar rose and wild plum (Prunus domestica); native local and non-local species included hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa), Cootamundra wattle, hickory wattle (Acacia implexa), black wattle, blackwood, and Parramatta wattle (A. parramattensis).

The understorey was dominated by exotic grasses and forbs, including wild oats, African lovegrass, phalaris, tall fescue, Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), couch (Cynodon dactylon), winter grass (Poa annua), flatweed, purple salsify, skeleton weed, ribwort plantain, mustard weed (Rapistrum rugosum), St. John’s wort, tall flatsedge (Cyperus eragrostis), sheep’s sorrel, black nightshade (Solanum nigricans), and spear thistle.

Native grasses and forbs recorded at low density in this vegetation community included common tussock- grass, redleg grass, tall spear grass, wallaby grasses. common bluebell, many-flowered mat-rush, wattle mat-rush, rock fern, leafless rush, crane’s-bill, slender tick trefoil (Desmodium varians), climbing saltbush (Einadia nutans), downy sheep’s burr, and common reed (Phragmites australis).

3.2.1.7 Arboretum Plantings – Mixed Native and Exotic Groundcover

Two patches (approximately 0.5 hectares) of vegetation that are part of the National Arboretum plantings were identified as having mixed native and exotic groundcover (Figure 3.2). These are located within the central portion of the Project Area, along the western boundary of the National Arboretum. Grasses and forbs occurred at low density, including perennial and annual native grasses such as tall spear grass, redleg grass, wallaby grasses, windmill grass (Chloris truncata), and hairy panic. Exotic grasses observed included goosegrass (Eleusine tristachya), African lovegrass, phalaris, St John’s wort, and ribwort plantain.

3.2.1.8 Arboretum Plantings – Exotic Groundcover

Plantings with a predominantly exotic groundcover occur within approximately 1.9 hectares of the Project Area, along the western boundary of the National Arboretum (Figure 3.2). These areas comprise of juvenile plantations of exotic and non-local native tree species. The predominantly exotic groundcover is dominated by goosegrass, couch, winter grass, phalaris, and ribwort plantain.

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Pine plantations are present in the southern end of the Project Area (Figure 3.2), across an area of approximately 2.4 hectares. The primary patches are located to the east of the Tuggeranong Parkway and north of the Molonglo River; two smaller patches occur west of the Tuggeranong Parkway between the Project Area and the Molonglo Stage 3 area. The primary patches are separated by the existing overhead powerline easement that is classified as disturbed/exotic vegetation.

The community is characterised by dense plantation forest of Monterey pine (Pinus radiata).

The mid-storey comprises a sparse cover of exotic shrubs, including briar rose, canopy regrowth, firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia), Cootamundra wattle, and Parramatta wattle.

The understorey was generally less than one metre tall and dominated by blackberry. Grasses and forbs occurred at low density, including tall spear grass, rough spear grass, ribwort plantain, African lovegrass, phalaris, hairy panic, and St. John’s wort.

3.2.1.10 Disturbed/Exotic Vegetation

The Disturbed/Exotic Vegetation community occurs extensively throughout the Project Area (Figure 3.2), totalling approximately 20.2 hectares. It is generally located adjacent to and within disturbed areas, such as the pine plantation, roads, and the National Arboretum. Some patches along William Hovell Drive intergrade into ACT16.

These areas do not contain a canopy. The mid-storey comprises a sparse cover of exotic shrubs, dominated by briar rose, firethorn, and Cootamundra wattle.

The understorey was generally less than one metre tall and dominated by phalaris, blackberry, serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma), and tall fescue. Other grasses and forbs occurred at low density, including red-flowered mallow (Modiola caroliniana), ribwort plantain, common centaury, paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), and hedge mustard (Sisymbrium officinale). Native grass species are present as a minor component of these areas, with the majority of species comprising river tussock, tall spear grass, and redleg grass.

3.2.1.11 Other

Non-vegetated ground associated with access tracks, roads, and construction areas are mapped separately. These areas do not support vegetation. There is a total of approximately 7.8 hectares within the Project Area.

3.2.2 Fauna Habitat Features

Fauna habitat within the Project Area is considered to be generally of poor condition. The Project Area has been highly disturbed by grazing, vegetation clearing, road construction, and infrastructure installation; as a result, the habitat is disturbed and fragmented.

Habitat features identified within the Project Area include small rocky outcrops and isolated patches of remnant woodland, including hollow bearing trees. The habitat trees identified by Capital Ecology (2015) within the Project Area were confirmed during the field survey. No additional habitat trees were identified. Areas of planted native vegetation with disturbed groundcover lack hollow bearing trees and do not support significant fauna habitat.

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Rocky habitat patches identified during the field survey are consistent with those identified by Capital Ecology (2015) and SMEC (2017) north of William Hovell Drive.

No extensive areas of native grassland likely to be derived from natural temperate grassland were identified; hence threatened grassland species are considered unlikely to occur within the Project Area. Native grassland derived from box-gum woodland has a low to moderate potential to support threatened invertebrate species such as golden sun moth (Synemon plana) and perunga grasshopper (Perunga ochracea).

Key habitat features identified in the Project Area are shown in Figure 3.3.

3.2.3 Opportunistic Observations

No threatened fauna species were recorded opportunistically during the field survey.

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 681322 682822 684322 685822 687322

HOVELL WILLIAMDRIVE °! GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55Zone MGA 1994 GDA SEE INSET COULTER DRIVE 6095187 6093687 6092187

URIARRA ROAD

TUGGERANONG PARKWAY 6090687 INSET 6089187 COTTER ROAD

km 0 0.25 0.5 1 File Name: R02-8139B_004 20/08/2018 1:12:59 R02-8139B_004 PM 20/08/2018 Name: File km 1:40000 at A4 0 0.5 1 2 6087687 Legend Cl Project Area Habitat Trees D Potential Pink-tailed Worm-lizard Habitat FIGURE 3.3 Roads Key Fauna Habitat Features Watercourse

Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

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The results of the database searches identified that a number of threatened ecological communities and threatened and migratory species have the potential to occur within the Project Area. The following sections refine this potential to occur based on the results of the field survey. 4.1 Threatened Ecological Communities

The literature review identified that the following threatened ecological communities may occur within a 10 kilometre radius of the Project Area:

 Natural temperate grassland, meeting both the EPBC Act and NC Act criteria; and

 Box-gum woodland, meeting both the EPBC Act and NC Act criteria.

Natural temperate grassland occurs at lower elevations than box-gum woodland. The potential presence of natural temperate grassland in the Project Area has been excluded due to its landscape position and the presence of remnant woodland trees nearby. It is considered likely that most of the Project Area supported box-gum woodland prior to European settlement.

Vegetation communities identified in Section 3.2.1 that currently support native vegetation (as either canopy or groundcover) and occur within areas likely to have historically supported box-gum woodland are identified in Table 4.1 and Figure 4.1.

Table 4.1 Vegetation Communities with the Potential to Meet EPBC Act Box-Gum Woodland Criteria

Zone Vegetation Community Description Area (ha)

A ACT16 Eucalyptus Supports isolated mature woodland trees with 0.74 total melliodora - E. blakelyi a low diversity native or mixed native and (ranging Tableland Grassy Woodland exotic understorey. from 0.03 Nine patches identified within the Project Area. and 0.2)

B ACT16 Eucalyptus Supports mature and regenerating woodland 0.02 melliodora - E. blakelyi trees, with a predominantly native Tableland Grassy Woodland understorey. This patch is continuous with high diversity native grassland within the Project Area and with high diversity woodland patches outside of the Project Area (SMEC, 2017).

C ACT18 Tableland Dry Four patches supporting mature brittle gum, 0.62 total Shrubby Woodland Blakely’s red gum, broad-leaved peppermint, (ranging candlebark, and apple box. Patches include from 0.04 regenerating shrubs and trees, or plantings of and 0.37) locally occurring shrubs with a native understorey. Patches are of a moderate diversity.

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Zone Vegetation Community Description Area (ha)

D Derived Native Grassland Derived grassland with a low perennial exotic 5.72 content and a high diversity native understorey.

E Derived Native Grassland Derived grassland with a low perennial exotic 1.62 content and a low diversity of native forbs.

F Derived Native Grassland Derived grassland with a moderate perennial 0.13* exotic content and a low diversity of native forbs. This area is continuous with a patch of mapped EPBC box-gum woodland (ELA, 2013).

G Plantings – Local Woodland Planted local woodland tree species, including 0.99 yellow box, red box, and apple box; with a predominantly exotic understorey. *Area within the Project Area not the continuous patch.

Each of these areas is assessed against the classification criteria for the EPBC Act listed critically endangered ecological community White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland in Section 4.1.1 and against the NC Act listed endangered ecological community Yellow Box – Red Gum Grassy Woodland in Section 4.1.2.

4.1.1 EPBC Act Listed Ecological Communities

The vegetation zones identified in Table 4.1 are assessed in Table 4.2 against the EPBC Act listing criteria for box-gum woodland.

Table 4.2 EPBC Act Box-gum Woodland Condition Criteria Assessment Criteria I A I B I C I D I E I F I G Is, or was previously, at least one of the Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes most common overstorey species white box (Eucalyptus albens), yellow box, or Blakely’s red gum?

Does the patch have a predominantly Yes Yes - Yes Yes Yes No native understorey?

Is the patch greater than or equal to 0.1 No Yes* - Yes Yes Yes* - hectares?

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Criteria A B C D E F G

Are there 12 or more native non-grass - Yes* - Yes No Yes* - understorey species present, including at least one important species? OR Is the patch two hectares or greater in size, has an average of 20 or more mature trees per hectare; or has regeneration of the dominant overstorey eucalypt species.

EPBC Act Box-gum Woodland No Yes No Yes No Yes* No *Continuous with adjacent area previously identified as EPBC box-gum woodland; does not meet the criteria on its own.

The Project Area supports a total of 5.9 hectares of EPBC Act critically endangered box-gum woodland, located in zones B, D, and F. Figure 4.1 shows the location and extent of EPBC Act listed threatened ecological communities present within the Project Area.

4.1.2 NC Act Listed Ecological Communities

The vegetation zones identified in Table 4.1 are assessed in Table 4.3 against the NC Act listing criteria for box-gum woodland.

Table 4.3 NC Act Box-gum Woodland Condition Criteria Assessment Criteria I A I B I C I D I E I F I G Is, or was previously, at least one of the Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes most common overstorey species yellow box or Blakely’s red gum?

Does the patch have 2-50% tree cover No Yes - Yes No Yes* No and moderate diversity and cover of native species, including disturbance tolerant species? OR Does the patch have less than 2% tree cover (i.e. tree cleared) and have a moderate diversity and cover of native species, including disturbance tolerant species?

NC Act Box-gum Woodland No Yes No Yes No Yes* No *Continuous with adjacent area previously identified as EPBC box-gum woodland; does not meet the criteria on its own.

The Project Area supports a total of 5.9 hectares of the NC Act listed endangered Yellow Box – Red Gum Grassy Woodland in zones B, D, and F. Figure 4.1 shows the location and extent of NC Act listed threatened ecological communities present within the Project Area.

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Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au 681322 682822 684322 685822 687322

HOVELL WILLIAMDRIVE °! GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55Zone MGA 1994 GDA

COULTER DRIVE SEE INSET 1 6095187 SEE INSET 2 6093687 6092187

INSET 1 URIARRA ROAD

TUGGERANONG PARKWAY 6090687

INSET 2 6089187 COTTER ROAD

km 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 File Name: R02-8139B_005 20/08/2018 1:14:22 R02-8139B_005 PM 20/08/2018 Name: File km 1:40000 at A4 0 0.5 1 2 6087687 Legend CJ Project Area White Box - Yellow Box - Blakely's Red Gum Roads Listed Vegetation Communities Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Watercourse -Grasslands - CEEC (EPBC Act, NC Act) 0 Towns FIGURE 4.1 White Box - Yellow Box - Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Derived Native Grassland (EPBC Act, NC Act) CJ Vegetation Zones that Potentially Support -Grasslands - CEEC (EPBC Act, NC Act) Derived Native Grassland (NC Act) - EBC Act or NC Act Box-gum Woodland

Image Source: Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT Government (2016) Data source: Umwelt (Australia) (2018)

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The PMST identified 15 EPBC Act listed flora species as potentially occurring within 10 kilometres of the Project Area. A record for one of these species, hoary sunray (Leucochrysum albicans var. tricolor), occurs on ACTmapi (ACT Government, 2018), approximately 500 metres from the Project Area. A further two ‘rare or important’ flora species (defined by Conservation Planning and Research for the ACT) were recorded adjacent to the Project Area (ACT Government, 2018): zornia (Zornia dyctiocarpa) and hairy anchor plant (Discaria pubescens).

Potential habitat for hoary sunray occurs in derived native grassland within the Project Area, however this species was not observed during surveys. This species is highly detectable at all times of the year, therefore its presence within the Project Area is considered low (see Appendix A).

No other threatened flora species were identified in proximity to the Project Area by the literature review. No EPBC Act or NC Act listed, or rare or threatened flora species were recorded during the field assessment.

Furthermore, the potential for threatened flora species to occur within the Project Area is considered low, due to the level of past disturbance and the dominance of exotic groundcover vegetation throughout most of the Project Area. A detailed assessment of likelihood of occurrence is provided in Appendix A. 4.3 Threatened and Migratory Fauna

No EPBC Act or NC Act listed threatened or migratory fauna species were recorded during the field assessment.

No habitat for aquatic species is present on site. Aquatic species have consequently not been addressed further in this report.

No significant habitat for migratory bird species is present on site. Migratory species have consequently not been addressed further in this report.

The following sections summarise the potential for threatened and migratory fauna habitat to occur within or directly adjacent to the Project Area. A detailed likelihood of occurrence assessment for species identified in the literature review is provided in Appendix A.

4.3.1 Reptiles and Amphibians

Habitat for pink-tailed worm-lizard is known to occur within the Project Area. Pink-tailed worm-lizard is listed as vulnerable under the EBPC Act and NC Act. No other threatened reptile and amphibian species are considered likely to occur (Appendix A). Confirmed habitat was identified to the north of William Hovell Drive by Capital Ecology (2015).

A single, isolated patch of low quality potential habitat for the species occurs within the proposed sub- station site, north of William Hovell Drive and east of Coulter Drive. The species is unlikely to be present in this patch due to the low quality and isolated nature of the single patch of habitat identified.

4.3.2 Birds

A range of woodland birds listed as threatened under the EPBC Act and/or the NC Act are known to occur in the landscape surrounding the Project Area (see Appendix A).

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While there is potential for threatened woodland birds to move through the surrounding landscape, and many of these species are known to occur within the Molonglo Valley, the Project Area comprises degraded vegetation that does not comprise significant habitat for birds dependent on a woodland or forest structure. Natural habitat for woodland or forest bird species is absent and areas of tree plantings and saplings are immature or sparse, therefore do not provide habitat for woodland birds. The isolated paddock trees present within the Project Area do not form a remnant woodland structure that would be suitable breeding habitat or high value foraging habitat for threatened woodland birds.

Superb parrot is known to disperse through the Belconnen suburbs surrounding the Project Area, using vegetation in urban and peri-urban contexts for foraging. There is potential for superb parrot to fly over the Project Area and use plantings of native non-woodland trees and fragments of remnant woodland on an opportunistic basis, however there is an absence of suitable nesting trees for the species, and is therefore unlikely to utilise the Project Area on any permanent basis.

While threatened woodland birds are likely to move through the landscape, and may intermittently utilise woodland plantings and isolated paddock trees for foraging or transit through the landscape, the Project Area does not support any key habitat features, such as patches of remnant woodland vegetation suitable for breeding.

4.3.3 Mammals

The Project Area comprises degraded vegetation, often comprising an exotic understorey or planted canopy species that do not provide suitable habitat for threatened mammal species identified as potentially occurring in the Project Area.

Highly mobile species, such as spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) may occasionally utilise the landscape, but are considered to have a low likelihood of occurring.

Hollow-bearing trees identified within the Project Area comprise of isolated paddock trees in a highly disturbed landscape. Disturbance sensitive threatened micro-bat species are unlikely to utilise habitat in this context. Hollows are likely to be inhabited by common and mobile bird and mammal species only.

4.3.4 Invertebrates

Derived native grasslands are known to support invertebrates listed as threatened under the NC Act and the EPBC Act. The majority of the Project Area supports highly disturbed vegetation dominated by exotic pasture grasses or dense plantings that are not potential habitat for threatened invertebrates.

Patches of derived native grassland are present in the landscape north of William Hovell Drive (Figure 3.2). While these grassland areas are not in close proximity to the historical extent of natural temperate grassland, these areas can comprise potential habitat for golden sun moth, listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act and endangered under the NC Act; and perunga grasshopper, listed as vulnerable under the NC Act. No records for these species occur, therefore they have been assessed as having a moderate likelihood of occurrence only.

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The majority of the Project Area has been extensively disturbed by historical land uses such as grazing, forestry and road construction and supports highly disturbed vegetation communities, including exotic grassland, exotic plantations and landscape plantings of local and non-local native trees and shrubs. Potential significant habitat features, i.e. hollow bearing trees, rocky areas and areas supporting a diverse native groundcover were restricted to areas north of William Hovell Drive. Areas of degraded natural vegetation comprising ACT16 Eucalyptus melliodora – E. blakelyi Tableland Grassy Woodland and ACT18 Tableland Dry Shrubby Woodland are present within the Project Area along William Hovell Drive. The majority of native vegetation is restricted to areas north of William Hovell Drive. Three vegetation zones totalling 5.9 meet criteria for inclusion in both the Commonwealth EPBC Act listed White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grasslands critically endangered ecological community and the ACT NC Act listed Yellow Box – Red Gum Grassy Woodland endangered ecological community. Two of these patches meet the listing criteria only on the basis of being part of larger woodland patches assessed in ELA (2013). No threatened flora or fauna were observed in the Project Area during the site assessment. A patch of low quality potential habitat for pink-tailed worm lizard, listed as vulnerable under both the EPBC Act and the NC Act, was identified at the proposed substation site north of William Hovell Drive and east of Coulter Drive (Figure 3.3). No other additional pink-tailed worm lizard habitat was identified in the Project Area. Due to the low quality and isolation of this habitat, the species is considered unlikely to be present in the patch identified during the field survey. Patches of derived native grassland are present in the landscape north of William Hovell Drive (Figure 3.2). While these grassland areas are not in close proximity to the historical extent of natural temperate grassland, and no records occur in the immediate area, these areas must be considered to comprise potential habitat for golden sun moth, listed as critically endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act and endangered under the NC Act, and perunga grasshopper, listed as vulnerable under the NC Act. The Project Area is within a landscape which is known to provide habitat for a range of threatened woodland bird species. While these threatened woodland birds are likely to move through the landscape, and may intermittently utilise woodland plantings and isolated paddock trees for foraging or transit through the landscape, the Project Area does not support any key habitat features suitable for breeding. No potential habitat for any other EPBC Act or NC Act threatened fauna was identified as occurring in the Project Area. No other matters of national environmental significance listed under the EPBC Act were identified as potentially occurring in the Project Area.

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ACT Government (2018) ACTmapi ‘Significant Species, Vegetation Communities and Registered Trees’ layer, accessed online (August 2018): http://app.actmapi.act.gov.au/actmapi/index.html?viewer=ssvcrt.

ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA) (2011) Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance: NES Plan, ACT Government, Canberra.

Biosis (2014) Belconnen – Aranda Snow Gums/Glenloch Ecological Values and Constraints Assessment, unpublished report prepared for the Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra.

Biosis (2016) Molonglo Stage 3 Development Area: Vegetation Classification and Condition Assessment, unpublished report prepared for the ACT land Development Agency, Canberra.

Capital Ecology (2015) William Hovell Drive investigation area - Pink-tailed Worm-lizard survey and habitat mapping, briefing note prepared for ACT Infrastructure Planning and Design, Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate, Canberra.

Capital Ecology (2016) Kama Interface Management Strategy, unpublished report prepared for Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra.

Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) (2018) Protected Matters Search Tool, accessed online (August 2018): http://www.environment.gov.au/webgis-framework/apps/pmst/pmst.jsf, Australian Government, Canberra.

EcoLogical Australia (ELA) (2010) Draft Strategic Assessment Report of the Molonglo Valley Plan for the Protection of Matters of National Environmental Significance, unpublished report prepared for the ACT Planning and Land Authority, Canberra.

EcoLogical Australia (ELA) (2011) Molonglo and North Weston EPBC Act Strategic Assessment: Supplementary Report, unpublished report prepared for the ACT Planning and Land Authority, Canberra.

EcoLogical Australia (ELA) (2013) Molonglo Valley Vegetation Survey: Baseline Condition Assessment, unpublished report prepared for Design & Development, Territory and Municipal Services Directorate, ACT Government, Canberra.

SMEC (2017) Round Hill Station Vegetation Assessment Round Hill Station (Blocks 1491, 1492 and 1587), Belconnen ACT, unpublished report prepared for the Land Development Agency, Canberra.

Umwelt (2013a) Ecological Values of the Kama Nature Reserve – Molonglo Stage 3 Outer Asset Protection Zone, briefing note prepared for ACT Land Development Agency, Canberra.

Umwelt (2013b) Review of ACT Environmental Offsets Calculator Stage 2, unpublished report prepared for the Land Development Agency, ACT Government, Canberra.

Umwelt (2013c) Vegetation Mapping for Kama Nature Reserve, Molonglo, briefing note prepared for ACT Land Development Agency, ACT Government, Canberra.

Umwelt (2014) Molonglo Stage 3: Major Electrical Infrastructure Relocation, Environmental and Heritage Constraints, unpublished report prepared for Brown Consulting, Canberra.

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Umwelt (2016) Molonglo High Voltage Electricity Infrastructure Relocation: Environmental Impact Assessment, unpublished report prepared for Calibre Consulting, Canberra.

Umwelt (2017) Molonglo Stage 3 s211 Application Supporting Documentation, prepared for the Land Development Project Group, ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, Canberra.

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APPENDIX A Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Ecological Communities

Natural Natural E CE A naturally occurring grassland of the temperate Nil Project Area contains Temperate Temperate zone, dominated by native perennial tussock remnant trees. Grassland of the grassland grasses, with associated native herbs and native Characteristics for this South Eastern fauna. ecological community are Highlands absent.

White Box-Yellow Yellow-box E CE A naturally occurring woodland of the temperate High Characteristics for this Box-Blakely's Red Red Gum zone, in which Yellow Box co-occurs with Blakely’s ecological community are Gum Grassy Grassy Red Gum. It includes the species rich understorey present. Woodland and Woodlands of native tussock grasses, herbs and scattered Derived Native shrubs, together with a large number of native Grassland animal species.

Birds

Actitis Common - M, Utilises a wide range of coastal wetlands and some Nil Suitable habitat is absent hypoleucos sandpiper B,C,K,J inland wetlands, with varying levels of salinity, and within the Project Area is mostly found around muddy margins or rocky and the surrounding area. shores and rarely on mudflats. Roost sites are typically on rocks or in roots or branches of vegetation, especially mangroves.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Anthochaera Regent E CE The species inhabits dry open forest and woodland, Low Intermittent visitor to the phrygia honeyeater particularly Box-Ironbark woodland, and riparian ACT region. The potential forests of River She-oak. These habitats have for the species to move significantly large numbers of mature trees, high through the site and canopy cover and abundance of mistletoes. Key potentially forage in eucalypt species include Mugga Ironbark, Yellow scattered woodland trees Box, Blakely's Red Gum, White Box and Swamp is consistent with the Mahogany. Nectar and fruit from the mistletoes majority of urban and are also eaten during the breeding season. woodland areas in the ACT.

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed - M,C,J,K Aerial space over a variety of habitat types; feeds Low May utilise aerial space swift on insects; breeds in Asia. over the Project Area.

Calidris Sharp-tailed - M, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper prefers muddy edges of Nil Suitable habitat is absent acuminata Sandpiper B,J,K,C shallow fresh or brackish wetlands, with inundated within the Project Area or emergent sedges, grass, saltmarsh or other low and the surrounding area. vegetation.

Calidris Curlew CE E Coastal migratory species with a NSW distribution Nil Suitable habitat is absent ferruginea sandpiper from Hastings Point to Shoalhaven Heads. Found in within the Project Area open, sandy beaches with exposed sand bars and and the surrounding area. rocky outcrops. Rare use of near-coastal wetlands.

Calidris Pectoral - M, Shallow freshwaters with low vegetation, flooded Nil Suitable habitat is absent melanotos sandpiper B,J,K,C pasture, swamp margins, sewage ponds; within the Project Area occasionally mudflats and saltmarsh. and the surrounding area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Hirundapus White- - M,C,J,K Aerial space over a variety of habitat types, but Low May utilise aerial space caudacutus throated prefers to forage over treed habitats as these over the Project Area. needletail would provide a greater abundance of insect prey; often forage on the edge of low pressure systems and may follow these systems ; breeds in Asia.

Gallinago Latham's - M, Soft wet ground, shallow water with tussocks, Nil Suitable habitat is absent hardwickii snipe B,J,K inundated parts of paddocks, seepage below dams, within the Project Area saltmarsh and mangrove fringes. and the surrounding area.

Grantiella picta Painted V V Occurs in Eucalyptus woodland and forests, with a Low Core foraging habitat honeyeater preference for mistletoe (Amyema spp.). Can also absent, may intermittently occur along watercourses and in farmland. Nests move through the from spring to autumn in outer canopy of landscape. eucalypts, she-oak, paperbark and mistletoe branches.

Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed V Mainly in coastal habitats such as large intertidal Nil Suitable habitat is absent baueri godwit sandflats, banks, mudflats, estuaries, inlets, within the Project Area harbours, coastal lagoons and bays. Less frequently and the surrounding area. it occurs in salt lakes and brackish wetlands, sandy ocean beaches and rock platforms.

Limosa lapponica Northern CE Usually forages near the edge of water or in Nil Suitable habitat is absent menzbieri Siberian Bar- shallow water, mainly in tidal estuaries and within the Project Area tailed godwit harbours. and the surrounding area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Lathamus Swift parrot V CE In NSW mostly occurs on the coast and south west Low Migratory visitor to the discolor slopes, occurring in areas where eucalypts are ACT region. The potential flowering profusely or where there are abundant for the species to move lerp (from sap-sucking bugs) infestations. Favoured through the site and feed trees include winter flowering species such as potentially forage in Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta), Spotted scattered woodland trees Gum (Corymbia maculata), Red Bloodwood (C. is consistent with the gummifera), Mugga Ironbark (E. sideroxylon), and majority of urban and White Box (E. albens). woodland areas in the ACT.

Numenius Eastern - CE Estuaries, tidal mudflats, sandspits, saltmarsh, Nil Suitable habitat is absent madagascariensi curlew mangroves. within the Project Area s and the surrounding area.

Monarcha Black-faced - M,B Mainly occurs in rainforest ecosystems, including Nil Suitable habitat is absent melanopsis monarch semi-deciduous vine-thickets, complex notophyll within the Project Area vine-forest, tropical (mesophyll) rainforest, and the surrounding area. subtropical (notophyll) rainforest, mesophyll (broadleaf) thicket/shrubland, warm temperate rainforest, dry (monsoon) rainforest and (occasionally) cool temperate rainforest.

Motacilla flava Yellow - M,C, J, Requires wet habitats. Nil Suitable habitat is absent wagtail K within the Project Area and the surrounding area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Myiagra Satin - M,B Inhabit heavily vegetated gullies in eucalypt- Low Migratory visitor to the cyanoleuca flycatcher dominated forests and taller woodlands, and on ACT region. The potential migration, occur in coastal forests, woodlands, for the species to move mangroves and drier woodlands and open forests. through the Project Area. Previously recorded in the locality.

Pandion Osprey - M,B Requires clear estuarine and inshore marine waters Nil Suitable habitat is absent haliaetus and coastal rivers for foraging, and nests in tall within the Project Area (usually dead or dead-topped) trees in coastal and the surrounding area. habitats from open woodland to open forest, within 1-2 km of water.

Polytelis Superb V V Inhabits Box-Gum, Box-Cypress-pine and Boree High Known breeding swainsonii parrot Woodlands and River Red Gum Forest. population 9 km to west, and known movement through area. Breeding habitat absent from alignment due to sparsity of mature trees, but regeneration and tree plantings in surrounding area contains dispersal and foraging habitat.

Rostratula Australian - E, M Inhabits shallow inland wetlands, either freshwater Nil Suitable habitat is absent australis painted snipe or brackish water bodies. Nests on the ground within the Project Area amongst tall reed-like vegetation near water, and and the surrounding area. feeds near the water’s edge and on mudflats.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Rhipidura Rufous - M, B Subtropical and temperate rainforests, wet Nil Suitable habitat is absent rufifrons fantail sclerophyll forest usually with a dense understorey, within the Project Area occasionally tall, dense coastal heath; drier forest and the surrounding area. and woodlands during migration.

Fish

Maccullochella Murray cod - V Found in most parts of the Murray-Darling Basin, Nil Suitable habitat is absent peelii with the exception of the upper reaches of some within the Project Area tributaries. and the surrounding area.

Macquaria Macquarie - E Found in both river and lake habitats, especially Nil Suitable habitat is absent australsica perch the upper reaches of rivers and their tributaries. within the Project Area and the surrounding area.

Amphibians

Litoria aurea Green and - V It Inhabits marshes, dams and stream-sides, Nil No records in the locality. golden bell particularly those containing bullrushes (Typha Suitable habitat is absent frog spp.) or spikerushes (Eleocharis spp.) within the Project Area and the surrounding area.

Litoria Booroolong - E The species is predominantly found along the Nil No records in the locality. booroolongensis frog western-flowing streams and their headwaters of Suitable habitat is absent the Great Dividing Range, and a small number within the Project Area of eastern-flowing streams in the north end of its and the surrounding area. range.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Litoria castanea Yellow - E It requires large permanent ponds or slow flowing Nil No records in the locality. spotted tree 'chain-of-ponds' streams with abundant emergent Suitable habitat is absent frog vegetation such as bulrushes and aquatic within the Project Area vegetation. and the surrounding area.

Reptiles

Aprasia Pink-tailed V V Inhabits sloping, open woodland areas with Known Confirm record by Capital parapulchella worm lizard predominantly native grassy groundlayers, Ecology (2015) in high particularly those dominated by Kangaroo Grass quality habitat in western (Themeda australis). Sites are typically well- section of the Project drained, with rocky outcrops or scattered, partially- Area. Low quality habitat buried rocks. is scattered in the eastern section of the Project Area.

Delma impar Striped V V The striped legless lizard is a grassland specialist, Nil Known population legless lizard found only in areas of native grassland and nearby approximately 2km km grassy woodland and exotic pasture. Habitat is south; however, no where perennial, tussock-forming grasses such as habitat connectivity within Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis), spear-grasses the area. (Austrostipa spp.) and poa tussocks (Poa spp.) dominate grassland. Sometimes present in modified grasslands with a significant content of exotic grasses.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Tympanocryptis Grassland E E Dominated by wallaby grasses (Nothodanthonia Low No records in the locality. pinguicolla earless spp.), spear grasses (Austrostipa spp.), Poa Tussock dragon (Poa sieberiana), Red Grass (Bothriochloa macra), and occasionally Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis). Introduced pasture grasses occur at many of the sites supporting this species, which has also been captured in secondary grassland. The species prefers areas with a more open structure, characterised by small patches of bare ground between the grasses and herbs.

Invertebrates

Perunga Perunga V - Natural temperate grassland dominated by Moderate Potential to occur in ochracea Grasshopper wallaby, kangaroo and spear grasses with forb food secondary grassland plants located in the inter-tussock spaces. Grass derived from box – gum tussocks are used also to escape predators. It may woodland. also occur in open woodland areas with a grassy understorey, including the endangered Yellow Box–Red Gum Grassy Woodland community.

Synemon plana Golden sun E CE Occurs in Natural Temperate Grasslands and grassy Moderate Potential to occur in moth Box-Gum Woodlands in which ground layer is secondary grassland dominated by wallaby grasses Rytidosperma spp. derived from box – gum woodland. Known habitat is approximately 1.5km west of the Project Area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Mammals

Chalinolobus Large-eared - V Roosts in disused mine shafts, caves, overhangs Nil Suitable habitat is absent dwyeri pied bat and disused Fairy Martin nests for shelter and to within the Project Area raise young. Also potentially roost in tree hollows. and the surrounding area. Occurs in low to mid-elevation dry open forest and woodlands, preferably with extensive cliffs, caves or gullies. Pied Bat is largely restricted to the interface of sandstone escarpment (for roost habitat) and relatively fertile valleys (for foraging habitat).

Dasyurus Spotted E E Utilises a range of habitat types, including Low Occasional visitor in urban maculatus tailed quoll rainforest, open forest, woodland, coastal heath and peri-urban areas. maculatus and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine Habitat absent. zone to the coastline. Individual animals use hollow-bearing trees, fallen logs, small caves, rock crevices, boulder fields and rocky-cliff faces as den sites.

Petauroides Greater - V Eucalypt forests and woodlands, preferring mature Nil Suitable habitat is absent volans glider forest with numerous large tree hollows. within the Project Area Folivorous, usually selecting habitats with a and the surrounding area. diversity of Eucalypt species. Sensitive to habitat fragmentation, restricted to gliding locomotion and reluctant to disperse through non-native habitat.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Petrogale Brush-tailed E V This species prefers rocky habitats, including loose Nil Suitable habitat is absent penicillata Rock-wallaby boulder-piles, rocky outcrops, steep rocky slopes, within the Project Area cliffs, gorges, isolated rock stacks and tree limbs. and the surrounding area. Preference for north-facing slopes and cliff lines. A range of vegetation types are associated with Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby habitat, including dense rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest, vine thicket, dry sclerophyll forest, and open forest.

Phascolarctos Koala - V Inhabits a range of eucalypt forest and woodland Low Feed tree species are cinereus communities. Adequate floristic diversity, present (i.e. Brittle gum), availability of feed trees (primarily Eucalyptus there been no known tereticornis and E. viminalis) and presence of records within the Project mature trees very important. Preferred food tree Area and is unlikely to species vary with locality and there are quite inhabit the area. distinct regional preferences. They are able to persist in fragmented habitats, and even survive in isolated trees across a predominantly agricultural landscape.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Pteropus Grey headed - V Occur in subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall Nil Suitable habitat is absent poliocephalus flying fox sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and within the Project Area swamps as well as urban gardens and cultivated and the surrounding area. fruit crops. Roosting camps are commonly found in gullies, close to water, in vegetation with a dense canopy. They travel up to 50 km to forage, on the nectar and pollen of native trees, in particular Eucalyptus, Melaleuca and Banksia, and fruits of rainforest trees and vines.

Threatened Flora Species

Ammobium Yass Daisy - V Found in moist or dry forest communities, Box- Low No known records within craspedioides Gum Woodland and secondary grassland derived the locality. No specific from clearing of these communities. Grows in habitat is present within association with a large range of eucalypts the Project Area. (Eucalyptus blakelyi, E. bridgesiana, E. dives, E. goniocalyx, E. macrorhyncha, E. mannifera, E. melliodora, E. polyanthemos, E. rubida). Apparently unaffected by light grazing, as populations persist in some grazed sites.

Amphibromus Floating - V Amphibromus fluitans grows mostly in permanent Nil Suitable habitat is absent fluitans Swamp swamps. The species needs wetlands which are at within the Project Area Wallaby- least moderately fertile and which have some bare and the surrounding area. grass ground, conditions which are produced by seasonally-fluctuating water levels.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Caladenia Canberra E CE Grows in transitional vegetation zones between Nil Suitable habitat is absent actensis Spider Orchid Yellow Box – Red Gum Tableland Grassy Woodland within the Project Area (dominated by Eucalyptus blakelyi, E. melliodora and the surrounding area. and E. pauciflora) and Red Stringybark Tableland Grass/Shrub Forest (dominated by E. rossii) at an altitude of 645 to 745 m.

Dodonaea Trailing Hop- - V Grows in low-lying, often winter-wet areas in Nil Suitable habitat is absent procumbens bush woodland, low open forests, heathland and within the Project Area grasslands, on sands and clays. and the surrounding area.

Eucalyptus Black gum - V Often grows with other cold-adapted eucalypts, Nil Suitable habitat is absent aggregata such as Snow Gum or White Sallee (Eucalyptus within the Project Area pauciflora), Manna or Ribbon Gum (E. viminalis), and the surrounding area. Candlebark (E. rubida), Black Sallee (E. stellulata) and Swamp Gum (E. ovata). Black Gum usually occurs in an open woodland formation with a grassy groundlayer dominated either by River Tussock (Poa labillardierei) or Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis), but with few shrubs.

Lepidium Ginninderra E V Grows on the flood plain in Natural Temperate Nil Suitable habitat is absent ginninderrense Peppercress Grassland dominated by Austrodanthonia spp. and within the Project Area Bothriochloa macra. and the surrounding area.

Lepidium Basalt - E Eucalyptus and/or Allocasuarina woodland with a Nil Suitable habitat is absent hyssopifolium peppercress grassy understorey, and native temperate within the Project Area grasslands. and the surrounding area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Leucochrysum Hoary Sunray - E Occurs in a wide variety of grassland, woodland Low No known recent records albicans var. and forest habitats, generally on relatively heavy in the locality. Absence tricolor soils. confirm by site walk-over.

Muehlenbeckia Tuggeranong E E Species is found in a highly disturbed riparian Nil Suitable habitat is absent tuggeranong Lignum shrubby woodland association, heavily invaded by within the Project Area exotic weeds. The tree layer is largely remnant. The and the surrounding area. species is found on almost bare rock, or tangled amongst other vegetation.

Pelargonium sp. Omeo - E Usually just above the high-water level of Nil Suitable habitat is absent Striatellum Storksbill irregularly inundated or ephemeral lakes, in the within the Project Area (G.W.Carr 10345) transition zone between surrounding grasslands or and the surrounding area. pasture and the wetland or aquatic communities.

Pomaderris Pale - V This species usually grows in shrub communities Nil Suitable habitat is absent pallida Pomaderris surrounded by Brittle Gum (Eucalyptus mannifera) within the Project Area and Red Stringybark (E. macrorhyncha) or Callitris and the surrounding area. spp. woodland.

Prasophyllum A leek orchid E CE Known to occur in open eucalypt woodland and Nil Suitable habitat is absent petilum grassland. within the Project Area and the surrounding area.

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Species Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential Comment Common NC EPBC to occur Scientific Name Name Act ACT

Rutidosis Button E E Occurs in Box-Gum Woodland, secondary grassland Nil Suitable habitat is absent leptorrhynchoide Winklewort derived from Box-Gum Woodland or in Natural within the Project Area s Temperate Grassland; and often in the ecotone and the surrounding area. between the two communities. Grows on soils that are usually shallow, stony red-brown clay loams; tends to occupy areas where there is relatively less competition from herbaceous species (either due to the shallow nature of the soils, or at some sites due to the competitive effect of woodland trees).

Swainsona recta Small purple E E Grassy understorey of woodlands and open-forests Low No known recent records pea dominated by Blakely’s Red Gum Eucalyptus in the locality. blakelyi, Yellow Box E. melliodora, Candlebark Gum E. rubida and Long-leaf Box E. goniocalyx. Grows in association with understorey dominants that include Kangaroo Grass Themeda australis, poa tussocks Poa spp. and spear-grasses Austrostipa spp.

Thesium australe Austral E V Suitable habitat for this species includes grassland Nil Suitable habitat is absent Toadflax (sometimes pasture) and grassy woodland, often in within the Project Area damp sites. Root parasite on grasses, particularly and the surrounding area. Themeda australis. B Bonn Convention CE Critically Endangered C CAMBA E Endangered J JAMBA V Vulnerable K ROKAMBA BC Act Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 SPS Special Protection Status EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 M Marine

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APPENDIX B PMST Report

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EPBC Act Protected Matters Report

This report provides general guidance on matters of national environmental significance and other matters protected by the EPBC Act in the area you have selected.

Information on the coverage of this report and qualifications on data supporting this report are contained in the caveat at the end of the report.

Information is available about Environment Assessments and the EPBC Act including significance guidelines, forms and application process details.

Report created: 06/08/18 16:12:34

Summary Details Matters of NES Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act Extra Information Caveat Acknowledgements

This map may contain data which are ©Commonwealth of Australia (Geoscience Australia), ©PSMA 2010

Coordinates Buffer: 10.0Km

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Summary

Matters of National Environmental Significance

This part of the report summarises the matters of national environmental significance that may occur in, or may relate to, the area you nominated. Further information is available in the detail part of the report, which can be accessed by scrolling or following the links below. If you are proposing to undertake an activity that may have a significant impact on one or more matters of national environmental significance then you should consider the Administrative Guidelines on Significance.

World Heritage Properties: None National Heritage Places: 4 Wetlands of International Importance: 4 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: None Commonwealth Marine Area: None Listed Threatened Ecological Communities: 2 Listed Threatened Species: 39 Listed Migratory Species: 14

Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act

This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated. Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment anywhere.

The EPBC Act protects the environment on Commonwealth land, the environment from the actions taken on Commonwealth land, and the environment from actions taken by Commonwealth agencies. As heritage values of a place are part of the 'environment', these aspects of the EPBC Act protect the Commonwealth Heritage values of a Commonwealth Heritage place. Information on the new heritage laws can be found at http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage

A permit may be required for activities in or on a Commonwealth area that may affect a member of a listed threatened species or ecological community, a member of a listed migratory species, whales and other cetaceans, or a member of a listed marine species.

Commonwealth Land: 18 Commonwealth Heritage Places: 76 Listed Marine Species: 21 Whales and Other Cetaceans: None Critical Habitats: 1 Commonwealth Reserves Terrestrial: None Australian Marine Parks: None

Extra Information

This part of the report provides information that may also be relevant to the area you have nominated.

State and Territory Reserves: 32 Regional Forest Agreements: 1 Invasive Species: 37 Nationally Important Wetlands: 1 Key Ecological Features (Marine) None

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Details

Matters of National Environmental Significance National Heritage Properties [ Resource Information ] Name State Status Historic Australian Academy of Science Building ACT Listed place Australian War Memorial and the Memorial Parade ACT Listed place High Court - National Gallery Precinct ACT Listed place Old Parliament House and Curtilage ACT Listed place

Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar) [ Resource Information ] Name Proximity Banrock station wetland complex 700 - 800km upstream Hattah-kulkyne lakes 500 - 600km upstream Riverland 700 - 800km upstream The coorong, and lakes alexandrina and albert wetland 800 - 900km upstream

Listed Threatened Ecological Communities [ Resource Information ] For threatened ecological communities where the distribution is well known, maps are derived from recovery plans, State vegetation maps, remote sensing imagery and other sources. Where threatened ecological community distributions are less well known, existing vegetation maps and point location data are used to produce indicative distribution maps. Name Status Type of Presence Natural Temperate Grassland of the South Eastern Critically Endangered Community likely to occur Highlands within area White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Critically Endangered Community likely to occur Woodland and Derived Native Grassland within area Listed Threatened Species [ Resource Information ] Name Status Type of Presence Birds Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater [82338] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper [856] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Grantiella picta Painted Honeyeater [470] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot [744] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Limosa lapponica baueri Bar-tailed Godwit (baueri), Western Alaskan Bar-tailed Vulnerable Species or species habitat Godwit [86380] may occur within area

Limosa lapponica menzbieri Northern Siberian Bar-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit Critically Endangered Species or species habitat (menzbieri) [86432] may occur within area

Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew, Far Eastern Curlew [847] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Status Type of Presence Polytelis swainsonii Superb Parrot [738] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe [77037] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Fish Maccullochella peelii Murray Cod [66633] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Macquaria australasica Macquarie Perch [66632] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Frogs Litoria aurea Green and Golden Bell Frog [1870] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area

Litoria booroolongensis Booroolong Frog [1844] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Litoria castanea Yellow-spotted Tree Frog, Yellow-spotted Bell Frog Endangered Species or species habitat [1848] likely to occur within area

Insects Synemon plana Golden Sun Moth [25234] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Mammals Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied Bat, Large Pied Bat [183] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (SE mainland population) Spot-tailed Quoll, Spotted-tail Quoll, Tiger Quoll Endangered Species or species habitat (southeastern mainland population) [75184] known to occur within area

Petauroides volans Greater Glider [254] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area

Petrogale penicillata Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby [225] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Phascolarctos cinereus (combined populations of Qld, NSW and the ACT) Koala (combined populations of Queensland, New Vulnerable Species or species habitat South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory) known to occur within area [85104] Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox [186] Vulnerable Roosting known to occur within area Plants Ammobium craspedioides Yass Daisy [20758] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Amphibromus fluitans River Swamp Wallaby-grass, Floating Swamp Vulnerable Species or species habitat Wallaby-grass [19215] may occur within area

Caladenia actensis Canberra Spider Orchid [76138] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Status Type of Presence Dodonaea procumbens Trailing Hop-bush [12149] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area

Eucalyptus aggregata Black Gum [20890] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Lepidium ginninderrense Ginninderra Peppercress [78474] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Lepidium hyssopifolium Basalt Pepper-cress, Peppercress, Rubble Pepper- Endangered Species or species habitat cress, Pepperweed [16542] may occur within area

Leucochrysum albicans var. tricolor Hoary Sunray, Grassland Paper-daisy [56204] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Muehlenbeckia tuggeranong Tuggeranong Lignum [64934] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Pelargonium sp. Striatellum (G.W.Carr 10345) Omeo Stork's-bill [84065] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area

Pomaderris pallida Pale Pomaderris [13684] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Prasophyllum petilum Tarengo Leek Orchid [55144] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area

Rutidosis leptorrhynchoides Button Wrinklewort [7384] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Swainsona recta Small Purple-pea, Mountain Swainson-pea, Small Endangered Species or species habitat Purple Pea [7580] known to occur within area

Thesium australe Austral Toadflax, Toadflax [15202] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area

Reptiles Aprasia parapulchella Pink-tailed Worm-lizard, Pink-tailed Legless Lizard Vulnerable Species or species habitat [1665] known to occur within area

Delma impar Striped Legless Lizard [1649] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Tympanocryptis pinguicolla Grassland Earless Dragon [66727] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Listed Migratory Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Migratory Marine Birds Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Migratory Terrestrial Species

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Threatened Type of Presence Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail [682] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail [644] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher [612] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Migratory Wetlands Species Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper [59309] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris acuminata Sharp-tailed Sandpiper [874] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper [856] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper [858] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit [844] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew, Far Eastern Curlew [847] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area

Pandion haliaetus Osprey [952] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act Commonwealth Land [ Resource Information ] The Commonwealth area listed below may indicate the presence of Commonwealth land in this vicinity. Due to the unreliability of the data source, all proposals should be checked as to whether it impacts on a Commonwealth area, before making a definitive decision. Contact the State or Territory government land department for further information. Name Defence - 139 CANBERRA AVE - FYSHWICK Defence - ADC / JSSC - WESTON Defence - ADFA MARINE FACILITY - YARRALUMLA Defence - AIDAB Building Defence - AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY Defence - BELCONNEN RADIO STATION ; BELCONNEN COMMUNICATIONS STATION Defence - CAMPBELL PARK Defence - DEAKIN OFFICES Defence - DEFENCE RECRUITING UNIT - GIO BUILDING

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Defence - HEWLETT PACKARD BUILDING - FERNHILL PARK Defence - MAWSON OFFICE ACCOMM Defence - NCC BUILDING - CANBERRA CITY Defence - NORTHBOURNE HOUSE Defence - NORTHCOTT DRIVE PLAYING FIELDS (Addison Rd) Defence - PHYSICS FIELD TESTING STATION - CANBERRA Defence - ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGE - DUNTROON Defence - RUSSELL HILL COMPLEX Defence - WERRIWA DEPOT

Commonwealth Heritage Places [ Resource Information ] Name State Status Natural State Circle Cutting ACT Listed place Synemon Plana Moth Habitat ACT Listed place Indigenous Aboriginal Embassy Site ACT Within listed place Historic Acton Conservation Area ACT Listed place Acton Peninsula Building 1 ACT Listed place Acton Peninsula Building 15 ACT Listed place Acton Peninsula Building 2 ACT Listed place Acton Peninsula Limestone Outcrops ACT Listed place Anzac Memorial Chapel of St Paul ACT Listed place Apostolic Nunciature ACT Listed place Apple Shed Asset C58 ACT Listed place Australian American Memorial and Sir Thomas Blamey Square ACT Listed place Australian Forestry School (former) ACT Listed place Australian National Botanic Gardens (part) ACT Listed place Australian War Memorial ACT Listed place Blundells Farmhouse, Slab Outbuilding and Surrounds ACT Listed place CSIRO Main Entomology Building ACT Listed place Cameron Offices (Wings 3, 4 and 5, and Bridge) ACT Listed place Canberra School of Art ACT Listed place Canberra School of Music ACT Listed place Captains Quarters Assets B1 to B4 ACT Listed place Carillon ACT Listed place Casey House and Garden ACT Listed place Changi Chapel ACT Listed place Commandants House Asset B9 ACT Listed place Commencement Column Monument ACT Listed place Communications Centre ACT Listed place Drill Hall Gallery ACT Listed place Duntroon House and Garden ACT Listed place East Block Government Offices ACT Listed place Edmund Barton Offices ACT Listed place General Bridges Grave ACT Listed place Gungahlin Complex ACT Listed place Gungahlin Homestead and Landscape ACT Listed place High Court - National Gallery Precinct ACT Listed place High Court of Australia ACT Listed place Institute of Anatomy (former) ACT Listed place John Gorton Building ACT Listed place King George V Memorial ACT Listed place Lennox House Complex ACT Listed place Mount Stromlo Observatory Precinct ACT Listed place National Gallery of Australia ACT Listed place National Library of Australia and Surrounds ACT Listed place National Rose Gardens ACT Listed place Old Parliament House Gardens ACT Listed place Old Parliament House and Curtilage ACT Listed place Parade Ground and Associated Buildings Group ACT Listed place Parliament House Vista ACT Listed place Parliament House Vista Extension - Portal Buildings ACT Listed place Patent Office (former) ACT Listed place Phytotron ACT Listed place

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name State Status R G Menzies Building ANU ACT Listed place RMC Duntroon Conservation Area ACT Listed place Reserve Bank of Australia ACT Listed place Residence Asset B5 ACT Listed place Residence Asset B7 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C12 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C13 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C14 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C15 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C7 ACT Listed place Residence Asset C8 ACT Listed place Royal Australian Naval Transmitting Station ACT Listed place Russell Precinct Heritage Area ACT Listed place Sculpture Garden National Gallery of Australia ACT Listed place The CSIRO Forestry Precinct ACT Listed place The Lodge ACT Listed place The Royal Australian Mint ACT Listed place The Surveyors Hut ACT Listed place Toad Hall ANU ACT Listed place University House and Garden ACT Listed place West Block and the Dugout ACT Listed place Westridge House & Grounds ACT Listed place Yarralumla and Surrounds ACT Listed place York Park North Tree Plantation ACT Listed place Russell Cafeteria ACT Within listed place

Listed Marine Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Birds Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper [59309] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret [59541] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret [59542] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Calidris acuminata Sharp-tailed Sandpiper [874] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper [856] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper [858] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Chrysococcyx osculans Black-eared Cuckoo [705] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Threatened Type of Presence Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail [682] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot [744] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit [844] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail [644] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher [612] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew, Far Eastern Curlew [847] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area

Pandion haliaetus Osprey [952] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species habitat known to occur within area

Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato) Painted Snipe [889] Endangered* Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Critical Habitats [ Resource Information ] Name Type of Presence Lepidium ginninderrense (Ginninderra Peppercress) - Northwest corner Listed Critical Habitat Belconnen Naval Transmission Station, ACT

Extra Information State and Territory Reserves [ Resource Information ] Name State Aranda Bushland ACT Australian National ACT Black Mountain ACT Bruce Ridge ACT Bullen Range ACT Callum Brae ACT Cooleman Ridge ACT Crace ACT Dunlop Grassland ACT Farrer Ridge ACT Gossan Hill ACT

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name State Gungaderra Grassland ACT Isaacs Ridge ACT Jerrabomberra Wetlands ACT Kama ACT Lower Molonglo River Corridor ACT McQuoids Hill ACT Mt Ainslie ACT Mt Mugga Mugga ACT Mt Painter ACT Mt Pleasant ACT Mt Taylor ACT O'Connor Ridge ACT Oakey Hill ACT Percival Hill ACT Red Hill ACT Stony Creek ACT The Pinnacle ACT Unnamed ACT Urambi Hills ACT Wanniassa Hills ACT Woodstock ACT

Regional Forest Agreements [ Resource Information ] Note that all areas with completed RFAs have been included. Name State Southern RFA New South Wales

Invasive Species [ Resource Information ] Weeds reported here are the 20 species of national significance (WoNS), along with other introduced plants that are considered by the States and Territories to pose a particularly significant threat to biodiversity. The following feral animals are reported: Goat, Red Fox, Cat, Rabbit, Pig, Water Buffalo and Cane Toad. Maps from Landscape Health Project, National Land and Water Resouces Audit, 2001.

Name Status Type of Presence Birds Acridotheres tristis Common Myna, Indian Myna [387] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Alauda arvensis Skylark [656] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Anas platyrhynchos Mallard [974] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Carduelis carduelis European Goldfinch [403] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Carduelis chloris European Greenfinch [404] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Columba livia Rock Pigeon, Rock Dove, Domestic Pigeon [803] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Passer domesticus House Sparrow [405] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Turtle-Dove [780] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling [389] Species or species

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Status Type of Presence habitat likely to occur within area Turdus merula Common Blackbird, Eurasian Blackbird [596] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Mammals Bos taurus Domestic Cattle [16] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Canis lupus familiaris Domestic Dog [82654] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Felis catus Cat, House Cat, Domestic Cat [19] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Feral deer Feral deer species in Australia [85733] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Lepus capensis Brown Hare [127] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Mus musculus House Mouse [120] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit, European Rabbit [128] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Rattus norvegicus Brown Rat, Norway Rat [83] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Rattus rattus Black Rat, Ship Rat [84] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Sus scrofa Pig [6] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Vulpes vulpes Red Fox, Fox [18] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Plants Alternanthera philoxeroides Alligator Weed [11620] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper, Bridal Veil Creeper, Smilax, Florist's Species or species habitat Smilax, Smilax Asparagus [22473] likely to occur within area

Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera Boneseed [16905] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Cytisus scoparius Broom, English Broom, Scotch Broom, Common Species or species habitat Broom, Scottish Broom, Spanish Broom [5934] likely to occur within area

Genista monspessulana Montpellier Broom, Cape Broom, Canary Broom, Species or species habitat Common Broom, French Broom, Soft Broom [20126] likely to occur within area

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Name Status Type of Presence Genista sp. X Genista monspessulana Broom [67538] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn, Boxthorn [19235] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Nassella neesiana Chilean Needle grass [67699] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Nassella trichotoma Serrated Tussock, Yass River Tussock, Yass Tussock, Species or species habitat Nassella Tussock (NZ) [18884] likely to occur within area

Opuntia spp. Prickly Pears [82753] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Pinus radiata Radiata Pine Monterey Pine, Insignis Pine, Wilding Species or species habitat Pine [20780] may occur within area

Rubus fruticosus aggregate Blackberry, European Blackberry [68406] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Sagittaria platyphylla Delta Arrowhead, Arrowhead, Slender Arrowhead Species or species habitat [68483] likely to occur within area

Salix spp. except S.babylonica, S.x calodendron & S.x reichardtii Willows except Weeping Willow, Pussy Willow and Species or species habitat Sterile Pussy Willow [68497] likely to occur within area

Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed, Madagascar Ragwort, Madagascar Species or species habitat Groundsel [2624] likely to occur within area

Ulex europaeus Gorse, Furze [7693] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area

Nationally Important Wetlands [ Resource Information ] Name State Jerrabomberra Wetlands ACT

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Caveat The information presented in this report has been provided by a range of data sources as acknowledged at the end of the report.

This report is designed to assist in identifying the locations of places which may be relevant in determining obligations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. It holds mapped locations of World and National Heritage properties, Wetlands of International and National Importance, Commonwealth and State/Territory reserves, listed threatened, migratory and marine species and listed threatened ecological communities. Mapping of Commonwealth land is not complete at this stage. Maps have been collated from a range of sources at various resolutions.

Not all species listed under the EPBC Act have been mapped (see below) and therefore a report is a general guide only. Where available data supports mapping, the type of presence that can be determined from the data is indicated in general terms. People using this information in making a referral may need to consider the qualifications below and may need to seek and consider other information sources.

For threatened ecological communities where the distribution is well known, maps are derived from recovery plans, State vegetation maps, remote sensing imagery and other sources. Where threatened ecological community distributions are less well known, existing vegetation maps and point location data are used to produce indicative distribution maps.

Threatened, migratory and marine species distributions have been derived through a variety of methods. Where distributions are well known and if time permits, maps are derived using either thematic spatial data (i.e. vegetation, soils, geology, elevation, aspect, terrain, etc) together with point locations and described habitat; or environmental modelling (MAXENT or BIOCLIM habitat modelling) using point locations and environmental data layers.

Where very little information is available for species or large number of maps are required in a short time-frame, maps are derived either from 0.04 or 0.02 decimal degree cells; by an automated process using polygon capture techniques (static two kilometre grid cells, alpha-hull and convex hull); or captured manually or by using topographic features (national park boundaries, islands, etc). In the early stages of the distribution mapping process (1999-early 2000s) distributions were defined by degree blocks, 100K or 250K map sheets to rapidly create distribution maps. More reliable distribution mapping methods are used to update these distributions as time permits.

Only selected species covered by the following provisions of the EPBC Act have been mapped: - migratory and - marine The following species and ecological communities have not been mapped and do not appear in reports produced from this database:

- threatened species listed as extinct or considered as vagrants - some species and ecological communities that have only recently been listed - some terrestrial species that overfly the Commonwealth marine area - migratory species that are very widespread, vagrant, or only occur in small numbers The following groups have been mapped, but may not cover the complete distribution of the species: - non-threatened seabirds which have only been mapped for recorded breeding sites - seals which have only been mapped for breeding sites near the Australian continent Such breeding sites may be important for the protection of the Commonwealth Marine environment.

Coordinates

-35.268452 149.052416,-35.274758 149.067351,-35.277281 149.081427,-35.285829 149.084517,-35.291994 149.074904,-35.305024 149.063918,-35.309086 149.062888,-35.319032 149.064776,-35.322113 149.052588,-35.308946 149.036967,-35.284007 149.039198,-35.268171 149.052416,-35.268452 149.052416

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au Acknowledgements This database has been compiled from a range of data sources. The department acknowledges the following custodians who have contributed valuable data and advice: -Office of Environment and Heritage, New South Wales -Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Victoria -Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Tasmania -Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, South Australia -Department of Land and Resource Management, Northern Territory -Department of Environmental and Heritage Protection, Queensland -Department of Parks and Wildlife, Western Australia -Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT -Birdlife Australia -Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme -Australian National Wildlife Collection -Natural history museums of Australia -Museum Victoria -Australian Museum -South Australian Museum -Queensland Museum -Online Zoological Collections of Australian Museums -Queensland Herbarium -National Herbarium of NSW -Royal Botanic Gardens and National Herbarium of Victoria -Tasmanian Herbarium -State Herbarium of South Australia -Northern Territory Herbarium -Western Australian Herbarium -Australian National Herbarium, Canberra -University of New England -Ocean Biogeographic Information System -Australian Government, Department of Defence Forestry Corporation, NSW -Geoscience Australia -CSIRO -Australian Tropical Herbarium, Cairns -eBird Australia -Australian Government – Australian Antarctic Data Centre -Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory -Australian Government National Environmental Science Program -Australian Institute of Marine Science -Reef Life Survey Australia -American Museum of Natural History -Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Inveresk, Tasmania -Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart, Tasmania -Other groups and individuals

The Department is extremely grateful to the many organisations and individuals who provided expert advice and information on numerous draft distributions.

Please feel free to provide feedback via the Contact Us page.

© Commonwealth of Australia Department of the Environment GPO Box 787 Canberra ACT 2601 Australia +61 2 6274 1111

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au

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Ph. 02 4950 5322 Ph. 1300 793 267 Ph. 02 6262 9484 Ph. 1300 793 267 Ph. 1300 793 267 www.umwelt.com.au

Authorised by the ACT Parliamentary Counsel—also accessible at www.legislation.act.gov.au