Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Executive summary

Shire of Roebourne (the Shire) commissioned Strategen to undertake an evidential analysis of physical and environmental limiters on land use to inform development of a Local Planning Strategy (LPS) for the Shire. The LPS is being prepared to guide expected future growth and development across the Roebourne municipality, particularly the Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne, Point Samson, Wickham and Cossack townsites, and inform revision of the Shire of Roebourne Town Planning Scheme No. 8.

As part of the project, Strategen undertook a detailed review of the environmental and planning framework and overarching legislation which affects land development in Western Australia. This included review of relevant state and Australian Government environmental approvals processes; state planning approvals processes; and key policies and guidelines that may be relevant to ongoing planning and development of the Shire.

A key component of the project was a comprehensive review of the existing physical, biological and social environment of the Shire. This involved reviewing an extensive range of available environmental investigations, reports and data, which enabled Strategen to present a ‘snapshot’ of the current situation and identify any environmental issues which might affect the strategic planning process and limit future development of the Shire.

Strategen compiled a list of potential development constraints for each townsite (Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne, Point Samson, Wickham and Cossack) on the basis of the existing physical, biological and social environment. Where GIS data was available, Strategen mapped the key limiters on land use to provide a visual overview of the key development constraints at each townsite. This essentially provided definitive boundaries to guide the direction of strategic planning and possible future development and ensure that unacceptable environmental impacts do not occur.

Results varied for each townsite; however, the following environmental constraints were considered to pose the highest risk to the strategic planning process and possible future development of the Shire:

1. Climate: climate change projections estimate an increase in the severity of extreme weather events and storms, including an increase in the strength of tropical cyclones impacting the Pilbara region. 2. Topography: Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne and Wickham are all situated near topographic rises and hills which will restrict development in these areas. 3. Coastal processes: every townsite is expected to be inundated to some extent from flooding and/or storm surge following a 100-year or 500-year ARI event. Encroachment of future development beyond the designated flood fringes is not advised if avoidable. 4. Acid sulphate soils: there is low to high probabilities of acid sulphate soil occurrence in the vicinity of Karratha, Roebourne, Point Samson and Cossack. Future investigations are recommended to determine the extent of potential acid sulphate soils prior to development in these areas. 5. Surface hydrology: Roebourne and Cossack are situated in the vicinity of Harding River, which will restrict development in this area. 6. Water supply: future demand may exceed current water supply availability. Implementation of the State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year will help address this issue in the short term. However, continued investigation into alternative water supplies for the Shire is recommended. 7. Contaminated sites: known contaminated sites exist in the vicinity of Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne and Point Samson. These areas should be avoided or remediated prior to future development in the vicinity. 8. Environmentally sensitive areas: several areas of significant environmental value occur in the vicinity of the townsites, including nature/conservation reserves, a National Park, Priority Ecological Communities, mangrove habitat and turtle nesting sites. Future development should not encroach into or negatively impact these areas. 9. Marine environment: the local marine environment contains significant habitat areas for marine flora and fauna and is protected through a marine park and management area. Future development should not encroach into or negatively impact these areas. 10. Land use: Karratha and Mount Welcome pastoral leases encroach on the Karratha, Wickham and Roebourne townsites, so development is restricted in these areas. 11. Infrastructure and servicing: upgrades to local townsite infrastructure and servicing is recommended in areas of future development, which may involve improving current servicing for Point Samson and Dampier (i.e. upgrades to sewerage infrastructure, water supply and wastewater infrastructure). 12. Aboriginal heritage: all townsites are located within or near registered Aboriginal heritage sites. Future development areas will require investigation to determine the significance of any heritage values prior to development and possible disturbance. 13. European heritage: all townsites contain European heritage values as documented in the Shire of Roebourne heritage inventory, particularly Cossack and Roebourne. Future development should be cognisant of the existing heritage values of the Shire.

Contents Reporting acronyms and abbreviations ...... 1 1 Introduction ...... 2 1.1 Background ...... 2 1.2 Purpose of the report ...... 2 1.3 Aim and objective ...... 2 1.4 Structure of the report ...... 3 2 Environmental regulatory context ...... 4 2.1 State environmental approvals ...... 4 2.1.1 Environmental Protection Act 1986 ...... 4 2.1.2 Department of Water processes ...... 7 2.1.3 Department of Aboriginal Affairs processes ...... 9 2.1.4 Other relevant legislation ...... 10 2.2 Federal environmental approvals ...... 11 2.2.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ...... 11 2.3 State planning approvals ...... 12 2.3.1 Land use planning levels ...... 12 2.3.2 Strategic planning framework ...... 13 2.3.3 Statutory planning framework ...... 13 2.4 Key policies and guidelines ...... 14 2.5 Local Planning Policies ...... 15 3 Existing environment ...... 16 3.1 Physical environment ...... 16 3.1.1 Location...... 16 3.1.2 Climate ...... 16 3.1.3 Landform and topography ...... 21 3.1.4 Coastal processes ...... 23 3.1.5 Geology and soils ...... 29 3.1.6 Hydrogeology ...... 37 3.1.7 Surface hydrology ...... 37 3.1.8 Water supply ...... 40 3.1.9 Salinity risk ...... 41 3.1.10 Contaminated sites ...... 41 3.2 Biological environment ...... 45 3.2.1 Bioregional context ...... 45 3.2.2 Terrestrial vegetation and flora ...... 45 3.2.3 Terrestrial fauna and habitat ...... 48 3.2.4 Environmentally sensitive areas ...... 49 3.2.5 Marine environment ...... 51 3.2.6 Invasive species ...... 51 3.2.7 Wildfire risk ...... 51 3.3 Social environment ...... 53 3.3.1 Social context ...... 53 3.3.2 Land use ...... 55 3.3.3 Infrastructure and servicing ...... 57 3.3.4 Cultural heritage ...... 59 3.3.5 European heritage ...... 59 4 Findings and recommendations ...... 61 4.1 Dampier...... 61 4.2 Karratha ...... 64 4.3 Roebourne ...... 67 4.4 Point Samson ...... 70 4.5 Wickham ...... 73 4.6 Cossack ...... 76 5 References ...... 79

Figures

Figure 1: Shire of Roebourne regional location Figure 2: Town site locations Figure 3: Shire of Roebourne average monthly climate statistics Figure 4: Topography Figure 5: Coastal processes (Greater Shire of Roebourne area) Figure 6: Shire of Roebourne coastal processes Figure 7: Land systems Figure 8: Acid sulfate soils Figure 9: Water resources included in the Pilbara Groundwater Allocation Plan Figure 10: Surface hydrology and water supply Figure 11: Salinity risk Figure 12: Contaminated sites Figure 13: Bioregional context Figure 14: Pre-European vegetation extent Figure 15: Environmentally sensitive areas Figure 16: Marine environment Figure 17: Pastoral leases Figure 18: Infrastructure and servicing Figure 19: Cultural heritage

Appendices

Appendix 1: EPBC Act online database search results Appendix 2: Key development constraints maps (Figures 20–25)

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Reporting acronyms and abbreviations

ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics

ARI Average Recurrence Interval

BHPB BHP Billiton

DOP Department of Planning

FIFO Fly-in, fly-out

GFC Global financial crisis

M million m metre

PICC Pilbara Industry Community Council

RDA Regional Development Australia

RTIO Rio Tinto Iron Ore

Settlement Refers to urban settlements in the study area i.e. Dampier, Wickham and Point Samson

SIA Strategic industrial area

SOR Shire of Roebourne i.e. administrative and governance body

TAFE Technical and Further Education

The Pilbara The Pilbara region i.e. geographical region where the study area is located

The Shire Shire of Roebourne i.e. the geographical study area

Town centre “CBD” activity centres within the Shire

Township refers to the activity centres within the Shire i.e. Karratha and Roebourne

TWA Temporary worker accommodation

WAPC Western Australian Planning Commission

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

1 Introduction

1.1 Background Shire of Roebourne (the Shire) has experienced unprecedented growth in the last 20 years, with expansions in the oil, gas and iron ore industries being the major drivers. The growth trend is expected to continue, with large, long term contracts for LNG production and iron ore extraction projects set to drive growth of the local economy and the Shire until at least 2030.

There is a deficiency in the current strategic planning system at the Shire level, where current state- adopted planning policies focus either on the Pilbara Region or Town of Karratha, rather than the Roebourne municipality as a whole. As a result, the Shire has commissioned preparation of a Local Planning Strategy (LPS) to guide expected future growth and development across the Roebourne municipality, particularly the Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne, Point Samson, Wickham and Cossack townsites, and inform revision of the Shire of Roebourne Town Planning Scheme No. 8 (TPS No. 8). The LPS is anticipated to set the strategic planning direction for the Shire over the next 10–15 years.

1.2 Purpose of the report There is a broad range of environmental factors that require due consideration in preparation of the LPS. Strategen has been commissioned to undertake an evidential analysis of physical and environmental limiters on land use to inform the LPS, based on relevant technical papers provided in support of the LPS development process.

1.3 Aim and objective This evidential analysis aims to determine key environmental opportunities and constraints at a strategic level across the Shire and define boundaries beyond which future development is not advised due to potential environmental impacts or development limitations.

The objective of this document is to outline key environmental factors that require consideration at the strategic planning level and provide guidance on the potential opportunities and constraints to future development in the region, as well as potential environmental impacts that may result from such development. In addressing this objective, this document:  incorporates technical information on regional environmental factors, as provided in supporting documentation sought for the preparation of the LPS;  utilises relevant environmental and planning legislation, policies and best practice guidelines;  describes the key environmental constraints to development within the region;  provides advice on the environmental limiters and recommendations for management of potential environmental impacts.

The information presented in this report is designed to be applied at a regional level, providing strategic direction for the LPS. Further detailed investigation of site specific environmental conditions, including flora and fauna values, are expected to be required in support of future planning and development stages, such as local structure planning.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

1.4 Structure of the report The report is structured as follows:  Section 1 Introduction: provides general background to the project and outlines the purpose, aim, objectives and structure of this report.  Section 2 Environmental regulatory context: outlines the environmental and planning framework and overarching legislation which affects land development and planning at the regional level in Western Australia.  Section 3 Existing environment: provides a ‘snapshot’ of the existing physical, biological and social environment of the Shire, focussing on key factors which could affect future development of Shire townsites.  Section 4 Findings and recommendations: provides a summary of key development constraints for each Shire townsite, as well as recommendations for management.  Section 5 References: documents references used in preparation of this report.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2 Environmental regulatory context

2.1 State environmental approvals

2.1.1 Environmental Protection Act 1986 The Environmental Protection Act 1986 (EP Act) governs the following environmental assessment processes:  assessment of significant development proposals and Planning Schemes under Part IV, administered by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA);  assessment of the clearing of native vegetation, construction and operation of prescribed premises, and discharge of pollution to the environment under Part V, administered by Department of Environment Regulation (DER).

Other Acts that govern particular environmental aspects relating to land development include:  Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (RiWI Act), which governs water resource protection in WA;  Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947 (CAWS Act), which governs the protection of proclaimed Public Drinking Water Source Areas (PDWSAs), controlled catchments and water reserves against the effects of pollution;  Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (AH Act), which governs protection of Aboriginal heritage in WA;  Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WC Act), which governs protection of WA wildlife (i.e. flora and fauna);  Conservation and Land Management Act 1984 (CALM Act), which deals with state conservation and land management matters and the vesting or reservation of land;  Contaminated Sites Act 2003 (CS Act), set out the requirements for reporting, classifying and reporting known or suspected contaminated sites.

2.1.1.1 Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986

Development proposals Under the state environmental assessment process, development proposals expected to have a significant environmental impact may be referred by any person or decision making authority to the EPA under section 38 of the EP Act. In general, referrals under the EP Act should contain information on the potential environmental impacts of the proposal, the proposed management mechanisms to be implemented to minimise and mitigate these impacts and how the principles of the EP Act have been addressed.

Future development proposals under an endorsed Shire of Roebourne LPS and scheme amendment that have not been subject to thorough assessment or environmental approval may trigger this referral process and early consultation with the EPA is advised to determine the relevant approvals pathway.

When a development proposal is referred to the EPA, a section 38 referral form needs to be completed with any additional relevant information attached that would assist the EPA in determining whether the proposal should be assessed and, if it is to be assessed, the level of assessment required. Information the EPA would expect in a referral under Part IV of the EP Act includes:

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

 a definition of the proposal;  the environmental setting;  relevant environmental aspects and factors;  potential environmental impacts and environmental risks that may arise from relevant environmental aspects (including risk assessment);  controls that are proposed to address identified environmental risks with particular reference to the mitigation hierarchy (avoidance, minimisation, rectification and reduction).

The EPA will determine whether a proposal requires assessment and, in the case that it does, will set the level of assessment, based on information contained in the referral. The Environmental Impact Assessment Administrative Procedures (EPA 2010) identifies two basic levels of assessment: 1. Assessment on Proponent Information (API), where no public review is required and the environmental acceptability or unacceptability of the proposal is apparent at the referral stage. 2. Public Environmental Review (PER), which applies to proposals that potentially have environmental consequences that warrant detailed assessment and public consideration and review.

Depending on the level of assessment set by the EPA, the proponent may have to provide additional detailed information for the EPA to adequately assess the proposal and provide an informed recommendation to the State Minister for the Environment regarding project approval. The level of additional information will be guided by the level of assessment pertaining to the proposal and may include detailed environmental investigations and/or detailed documentation to support the API or PER processes.

On receipt of a recommendation report from the EPA, and following resolution of any appeals and consultation with decision-making authorities, the State Minister for the Environment will issue a statement formally documenting the environmental approval outcome, as well as any conditions of approval. Timing for this process can vary greatly from three months to 18 months or longer, depending on the complexity of the proposal and if it is to be assessed, the level of assessment.

Planning Scheme Amendments All Planning Schemes and Amendments must be referred to the EPA by the Responsible Authority, which in this case is Shire of Roebourne. Under section 48A of the EP Act, the EPA must be given such information about the scheme as is sufficient to enable the EPA to decide whether or not to assess the scheme. The referral would need to contain:  a copy of the Council’s resolution to prepare or adopt the scheme;  scheme documentation including text and maps (GIS or CAD);  environmental checklist (in EPA format) including information on the biophysical factors, pollution management, social surroundings and any additional information as required.

In the case of the Shire of Roebourne LPS and subsequent scheme amendment, the above process will need to be confirmed in consultation with the EPA as early as possible to determine the relevant environmental approval requirements.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2.1.1.2 Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986

Works Approval Proposal premises may be classified as ‘prescribed premises’ under Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987, such that a Part V Works Approval is required for construction of associated facilities. A premise is of a prescribed class if it is proposed to involve a significant discharge of waste or emission of noise, odour or electromagnetic radiation into the environment. Prescribed premises that may be constructed within the Shire include waste disposal facilities and wastewater treatment plants. These development proposals will trigger the Part V Works Approval process and early consultation with DER should be undertaken to facilitate the necessary approvals.

Works Approval applications usually take approximately three months to be assessed by DER. The granting of a Works Approval (including amendments) cannot occur until after any related Part IV assessment is complete. Applications can still be submitted during this period, potentially allowing for situations where DER grants approval immediately following the Ministerial decision, shortening approval timeframes. The Works Approval application is usually required to be supported by an environmental impact assessment.

When a Works Approval is granted, it is advertised and subject to third party appeal. Depending on appeals received, the approval may take several months to finalise. Construction may commence at any point during this process, but the proponent runs the risk of portions of the construction requiring modification/reconstruction as a result of any appeals.

Importantly, a Works Approval permits commissioning of constructed facilities, but not operation. Once commissioned, a compliance report is required to be submitted and approved by DER before a licence to operate can be granted. If a Works Approval is required, then a Part V licence will also be required to permit and control any associated discharges/emissions to the environment during operation.

Licensing and Regulation A Part V licence is required to enable operation of any facility that involves the discharge of waste or the emission of noise, odour or electromagnetic radiation into the environment. A licence is not a pre- requisite to commence construction of the facility. Licences can carry conditions relating to the level of discharges/emissions, as well as monitoring and reporting requirements of prescribed premises, such as waste disposal facilities and wastewater treatment plants.

If the proposal is assessed under Part IV of the EP Act, then the issue of the impact of the discharges/emissions and their management should have been comprehensively assessed. Obtaining a licence should be relatively straightforward and would not be critical to commencement of operations, provided application was made reasonably soon after obtaining the Works Approval. Regardless, a licence should not take more than about two months to obtain.

Importantly, if Works Approval is not required, then a Part V licence is not required. However, the proponent would still fall under the general requirements of Part V of the EP Act, which prohibits anyone from causing pollution or environmental harm. Potentially polluting premises that do not qualify as ‘prescribed premises’ under the regulations, may require registration under Part IV of the EP Act. This is generally a simple process that would take several weeks.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Native Vegetation Clearing Permits If a proposal is assessed and approved for implementation under Part IV of the EP Act, there is no requirement to obtain a native vegetation clearing permit under Part V of the EP Act. This assumes that the required clearing was adequately described and assessed within the Part IV assessment process.

If there is no Part IV assessment, a native vegetation clearing permit will be required to clear native vegetation, unless the clearing is exempt under Schedule 6 of the EP Act or the Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004. Exemptions include clearing in accordance with a subdivision approval granted by the responsible authority under the Planning and Development Act 2005.

In the case of future development proposals within the Shire, the Part V clearing permit process may be triggered if native vegetation is proposed to be cleared without an existing environmental approval or clearing exemption. Early consultation with DER should be undertaken to determine the relevant approval requirements if this is the case.

There are two types of clearing permits that can be applied for, including area permits and purpose permits. The assessment process conducted for both permits is the same: 1. Area permits: under s 51(e) of the EP Act, an area permit can only be applied for by an applicant who is the owner of the land, likely to become the owner of the land, or where an applicant is undertaking clearing on behalf of the owner of the land and has written authority to do so. Area permits are for clearing of defined areas (i.e. limited by exact spatial boundaries). Area permits are generally approved for a default period of two years. 2. Purpose permits: under s 51(e) of the EP Act, a purpose permit can only be applied for by the person undertaking the clearing or on whose behalf the clearing is to be done. Purpose permits are for clearing of different areas generally approved for a default period of five years.

Native Vegetation Clearing Permit applications usually involve submission of an application form, supported by any environmental investigations and assessment against the 10 principles for clearing native vegetation, outlined in Schedule 5 of the EP Act. They can take up to three months to be assessed by DER, which will only issue a permit to clear if the application and supporting documents demonstrate compliance with the clearing principles, as well as suitable mitigation of any potential environmental impacts from clearing.

2.1.2 Department of Water processes

2.1.2.1 Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914

Department of Water (DoW) is responsible for managing state water resources. By issuing licences and permits under the RiWI Act, DoW protects state water resources and promotes the sustainable and efficient use of water. The RiWI Act requires people to hold a licence for any of the following activities:

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

 to take water from a watercourse or wetland that is located within a proclaimed surface water area (under section 5C);  to take water from any artesian underground water source throughout the state (under section 5C);  to take water from any non-artesian underground water source that is located within a proclaimed groundwater area (under section 5C);  to construct or alter an artesian well (or bore) (under section 26D);  to construct or alter a non-artesian well (or bore) in a proclaimed groundwater area (under section 26D);  to interfere with or obstruct the bed and banks of a watercourse or wetland in a proclaimed area (under section 11 and section 17);  to interfere with or obstruct the bed and banks of a watercourse or wetland in an unproclaimed area where access is via road or crown reserve (under section 21A).

Future development proposals within the Shire that are expected to result in any of the abovementioned actions will trigger the relevant DoW approvals processes. Early consultation with DoW is advised to facilitate licence application and granting of the relevant licence.

On receiving an acceptable application, DoW will undertake a preliminary assessment to determine if sufficient information has been provided to make a decision on whether to grant the application. In some cases, a hydrological or hydrogeological assessment may be requested by DoW. The main factors considered by DoW when determining this are:  volume and pumping regime requested;  existing level of use in groundwater management area (groundwater area or subarea);  potential impacts on other users;  potential impacts on groundwater dependent ecosystems;  existing salinity of the groundwater resource.

An operating strategy or water conservation/efficiency plan may also be required dependent on the volume of abstraction that will be undertaken. Early consultation with DoW is recommended in order to eliminate the risk of delays due to requests for further information. There are no statutory timeframes on processing applications, which can take upward from several months to reach a resolution. As with clearing permits described above, DoW is prohibited from making a decision on any application until any EP Act Part IV process is complete.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2.1.2.2 Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947

There are numerous PDWSAs, controlled catchments and water resources in rural WA proclaimed under the CAWS Act. Consequently, these resources have a high priority for protection against pollution, including salinity resulting from the clearing of native vegetation. The CAWS Act is used to control activities with the potential to contaminate water resources intended for use in town water supplies, regulate land use, inspect premises and take steps to prevent or clean up pollution.

Early consultation with DoW will be required if any future development proposals within the Shire are expected to impact on known PDWSAs, such the Harding Dam Catchment Area (Priority 1) or the Roebourne Water Reserve (priority classification currently unassigned).

2.1.3 Department of Aboriginal Affairs processes

2.1.3.1 Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972

In accordance with s 17 of the AH Act, any person who undertakes the following commits an offence under the AH Act unless they are acting with the authorisation of the Registrar of Aboriginal Sites under s 16 of the AH Act, or the consent of the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs under s 18 of the AH Act:  excavates, destroys, damages, conceals or in any way alters any Aboriginal heritage site;  alters, damages, removes, destroys, conceals, or who deals with in a manner not sanctioned by relevant custom, or assumes the possession, custody or control of any object on or under an Aboriginal site.

Given the scale of known Aboriginal heritage sites located throughout the Shire, particularly in coastal areas, the abovementioned actions could result from future development proposals unless Aboriginal heritage is thoroughly investigated through comprehensive survey and assessment prior to development, and relevant consultation and approvals sought from Department of Aboriginal Affairs (DAA).

In the event that an Aboriginal site (registered or not) resides within, or partly within a proposed development area, consent from the Minister is required prior to disturbance. Applications to disturb a site are assessed in cycles by DAA, with each cycle commencing at approximately four week intervals. If an application is deemed to be complete, DAA will include it on the Aboriginal Cultural Material Committee (ACMC) agenda for assessment. If an application is deemed incomplete, the proponent will have to provide the required information to DAA within a very short timeframe or otherwise resubmit/accept a later assessment cycle.

The type of information required in an application includes:  application form;  cover letter;  certificate(s) of title;  maps and photographs;  Aboriginal heritage survey reports;  DAA site recording forms (for newly recorded sites or sites that have new information recorded).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Applications are assessed by the ACMC, taking into account recommendations by DAA to determine whether the site to be impacted is a site, and whether the proposed impacts to the site are considered acceptable. The ACMC is required to determine whether or not any Aboriginal sites exist on the land and, if confirmed, to evaluate the importance and significance of the site. This is often conducted through consultation with local Aboriginal groups to assist in the evaluation of the importance of places and objects. A recommendation is then made to the Minister as to whether to consent to the disturbance, and if so, under what conditions. The assessment process generally takes approximately four months to complete unless impeded by a related EPA assessment process.

2.1.4 Other relevant legislation

The following legislative processes may be triggered if future development proposals within the Shire are expected to impact on threatened native species, state conservation land, or occur in the vicinity of a contaminated site.

2.1.4.1 Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

The WC Act provides for taxa (species, subspecies and varieties) of native flora and fauna to be specially protected because they are under identifiable threat of extinction, are rare, or otherwise in need of special protection. Such specially protected wildlife is considered to be ‘threatened’. The WC Act is supplemented periodically by notices issued by Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW), which are lists of species subject to protection under the WC Act, including the Wildlife Conservation (Specially Protected Fauna) Notice 2008(2) and the Wildlife Conservation (Rare Flora) Notice 2012(2). The lists are arranged in Schedules according to levels of vulnerability.

Any person wanting to capture, collect, disturb or study fauna listed under the WC Act requires a permit to do so in consultation with DPaW. In addition, any person wanting to collect flora listed under the WC Act, for either commercial or scientific purposes, must also obtain a licence to do so.

2.1.4.2 Conservation and Land Management Act 1984

The CALM Act establishes a set of legislative provisions dealing with state conservation and land management matters regulated by DPaW. The Act provides for the vesting or reservation of land, including National Parks, and the ability to enter into agreements with private landholders.

2.1.4.3 Contaminated Sites Act 2003

Sites that are known or suspected to be contaminated are dealt with under the regulatory provisions of the CS Act. The CS Act set out the requirements for reporting, classifying and reporting known or suspected contaminated sites. Reported sites are classified, in consultation with the Department of Health, based on the risks posed to the community and the environment. All reported sites are recorded on a public database administered by DER.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2.2 Federal environmental approvals

2.2.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places defined under the Act as Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES).

Under the environmental assessment provisions of the EPBC Act, ‘actions’ (proposals/projects) that are likely to have a significant impact on one or more MNES are subject to assessment and approvals process administered by the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Populations and Communities (DSEWPaC). The eight broad MNES protected under the EPBC Act are:  world heritage properties;  national heritage places;  wetlands of international importance (listed under the Ramsar convention);  listed threatened species and ecological communities;  migratory species protected under international agreements;  Commonwealth marine areas;  the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park;  nuclear actions (including uranium mines).

If significant impacts on MNES are likely to occur as a result of a proposed action from a future development proposal within the Shire, then early consultation and possible referral to DSEWPaC would be required.

The completion and submission of a referral form is the principal basis for the Minister's decision as to whether approval is necessary and, if so, the type of assessment that will be undertaken. Following referral of an action under the EPBC Act, the action is determined by the Minister to be either a ‘controlled action’ or ‘not a controlled action’ depending on whether the action is likely to have a significant impact on one or more MNES.

If the project is deemed to be ‘not a controlled action’, it may be either considered ‘not a controlled action’ or ‘not a controlled action particular manner’. If the decision is ‘not a controlled action’, approval is not required if the action is taken in accordance with the referral. If the decision is ‘not a controlled action particular manner’, approval is not required if the action is taken in accordance with the manner specified (i.e. according to management measures specified to mitigate potential impacts to ensure the impacts will not be significant). Examples of ‘particular manner’ approaches may include timing of works to avoid critical breeding periods for listed threatened species, identification and avoidance of important habitat and design measures or adoption of work practices to reduce or avoid impacts.

If the proposal is determined to be a ‘controlled action’, the Minister will set a level of assessment (similar to the Part IV EP Act approval process) and outline information required from the proponent. The levels of assessment (excluding Public Inquiry, which is not generally used) in increasing order of timeframe and information required are:

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

1. Assessment on Referral Information. 2. Assessment on Preliminary Documentation. 3. Assessment by Public Environment Report/Environmental Impact Statement.

If DSEWPaC considers the action to be a ‘controlled action’ and the proposal is subject to a PER level of assessment under Part IV of the EP Act, the Australian Government environmental assessment process may be undertaken through the State assessment process via the Bilateral Agreement. Referral under the EPBC Act should occur concurrently with the State referral to enable the process of a combined assessment through the Bilateral Agreement to be triggered, if required.

2.3 State planning approvals

2.3.1 Land use planning levels The Planning and Development Act 2005 is the principal town planning legislation in Western Australia and outlines three levels of land use planning, including state, regional and local. All levels take into account social, economic and environmental factors and how they are dealt with by relevant government agencies. The relationship between the levels and the components of each is outlined in Table 1.

Table 1 – Land use planning hierarchy

State Planning Strategy

State Planning Policies

State Development Policies

Resource Management Policies

Conservation Policies Regional Planning Strategy

Regional Strategy/Plans

State Management Plans

Resource Development and Economic Plans

Environmental Protection Policies

Statutory Region Schemes Local Plans and Strategies

Local Planning Strategies

Town Planning Schemes

Land Use Plans

Structure Plans

Improvement Plans

Development Plans

Environmental Management Plans

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2.3.2 Strategic planning framework

The long term planning strategy for the Shire is currently defined by the following key policy documents:  Pilbara Planning and Infrastructure Framework (WAPC 2012);  Shire of Roebourne Final Strategic Plan 2009–2013 (SoR 2009);  Shire of Roebourne Strategic Community Plan 2011–2021 (SoR 2011);  Karratha City of the North Plan (LandCorp 2010);  Shire of Roebourne Community Facilities Plan (SMCo 2011);  Wickham Local Structure Plan;  Shire of Roebourne Coastal Management Strategy (Draft) (SoR 2005a);  Pilbara State of the Environment Report 2013 (Essential Environmental 2013a).

The Shire aims to progress the strategic direction for growth of the Roebourne municipality through consolidation of the abovementioned documents into one cognitive, workable and clear LPS. The LPS will translate the abstract, strategic visioning at the state and regional scale, into a clearly defined, shire- wide growth strategy, focussing on policy and strategic planning, land use and development of the Shire through to 2031. The LPS is not a statutory document, but will be the principal document on which a review of the statutory TPS No. 8 will be based.

2.3.3 Statutory planning framework

2.3.3.1 Region Planning Scheme

Region Planning Schemes outline objectives for state and regional development and provide a statutory mechanism to assist strategic planning, coordinate the provision of major infrastructure and set aside areas for regional open space and other community purposes (WAPC 2007a). In areas not covered by a Region Planning Scheme, such as the Shire, the classification of scheme reserves and zones is generally made through Local Planning Schemes.

2.3.3.2 Shire of Roebourne Town Planning Scheme No. 8

Local Planning Schemes are prepared by local governments and set out the way land is to be used and developed within the municipality. TPS No. 8 (DoP 2000) is the prevailing statutory zoning scheme for the Shire. It provides detailed zoning information, the categories and use/s of land within each zone and specific development requirements. Once prepared, the LPS for the Shire will facilitate revision of TPS No. 8 to ensure that future land zoning classifications and subsequent developments are consistent with the strategic direction for the Shire.

2.3.3.3 Structure Plans

Although not always a statutory requirement, Structure Plans provide a framework for the coordinated provision of infrastructure, land use and development. They are also used by Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) and local government to help make decisions regarding the subdivision and development of land. There are three levels of Structure Plans that can be prepared, including region, district and local. Each of these needs to adhere to existing strategic policy directions and legislation applicable to the local context (i.e. the relevant LPS and TPS).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

With regards to the Shire, a Local Structure Plan (LSP) will generally be required to guide future development and expansion of individual townsites in line with the endorsed LPS and revised TPS. At this stage, LSPs are proposed for the Roebourne, Dampier and Point Samson townsites. An LSP has already been prepared for the Wickham townsite. The Karratha City of the North Plan (LandCorp 2010) aims to guide future development of the Karratha townsite.

These documents will typically provide specific detail on the proposed pattern of land use for each area such as residential and industrial areas. LSPs also provide a framework for the assessment of detailed rezoning, subdivision and development and must be approved by the local government and WAPC following advertisement for public submissions.

2.4 Key policies and guidelines

The Western Australian planning framework is complimented by a suite of State Planning Policies and guidelines. The following provides a list of key policies and guidelines specific to environmental planning, which will need to be given due consideration throughout development of the LPS and ongoing development of the Shire.  State Planning Policy 2 Environment and Natural Resources;  State Planning Policy 2.4 Basic Raw Materials;  State Planning Policy 2.5 Agricultural and Rural Land Use Planning;  State Planning Policy 2.6 State Coastal Planning Policy;  State Planning Policy 2.7 Public Drinking Water Source Policy;  State Planning Policy 2.9 Water Resources;  State Planning Policy 3 Urban Growth and Settlement;  State Planning Policy 3.4 Natural Hazards and Disasters;  State Planning Policy 3.5 Historic Heritage Conservation;  State Planning Policy 4.1 State Industrial Buffer Policy;  State Planning Policy 5.4 Road and Rail Transport Noise and Freight Considerations in Land Use Planning;  Acid Sulphate Soil Planning (provided by WAPC);  Planning for Bush Fire Protection Guidelines (Edition 2) (provided by WAPC);  Better Urban Water Management (provided by WAPC);  Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors (provided by EPA).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2.5 Local Planning Policies

The Shire has developed numerous local planning policies which guide preparation of development applications and communicate planning objectives in relation to development and land use. The following is a list of key policies that should be taken into consideration during development of the LSP to ensure consistency with the regional planning approach:  DP1 Karratha City Centre Development Requirements;  DP5 Industrial Zones and Industrial Development Requirements;  DP8 Roebourne and Wickham Mixed Business Zone Development Requirements;  DP9 Town Centre Zone Development Requirements;  DP10 Transient Workforce Accommodation;  DP12 Commercial Zone Development Requirements;  DP13 Tourism Zone Development Requirements;  DP14 Point Samson Development Requirements;  DP15 Gap Ridge Industrial Estate Development Requirements – General Industrial Precinct;  DP15 Gap Ridge Industrial Estate Development Requirements- Light Industrial Precinct.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3 Existing environment

The Shire has been subject to an extensive range of environmental investigations over the last two decades. Strategen has undertaken a comprehensive literature review of the relevant technical papers provided by the Shire in order to present a ‘snapshot’ of the existing physical, biological and social environment, as outlined in the following subsections.

3.1 Physical environment

3.1.1 Location

The Shire of Roebourne is one of four Local Government Areas in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia (Figure 1). The Shire covers an area of approximately 15 882 km2 and occurs along a 350 km portion of Pilbara coastline. The Shire is bound by Town of Port Hedland to the east, Shire of Ashburton to the south and the Indian Ocean to the north and west. Major settlements within the Shire include Karratha, Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson and the historical settlement of Cossack (Figure 2).

3.1.2 Climate

The Pilbara Region experiences an arid-type climate with two distinct seasons: hot summers and mild, dry winters (Loechel et al. 2011a). Rainfall in the Pilbara is generally low (270–400 mm) and variable throughout the year (Loechel et al. 2011a), the majority of which occurs in summer.

Climate statistics recorded at Karratha Aero, Dampier Salt, Roebourne, Cossack and Roebourne Aero Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) weather stations were compared to provide an average climate profile for the Shire (Figure 3). Results indicate that the hottest months occur between October and April, a period which experiences average maximum temperatures ranging from 35°C–37°C (BoM 2013). Temperatures between May and September are milder, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 26–31°C (BoM 2013). The Shire experiences cooler nights between May and September, with minimum temperatures ranging from 13–18°C (BoM 2013). Diurnal temperature range increases with increasing distance from the sea. This results in more extreme maximum and minimum temperatures at inland locations, which could be a key planning factor to consider for proposed future development of the Shire.

Average annual rainfall for the Shire is 292 mm (BoM 2013), which falls predominantly between January and March in association with summer storms and occasional tropical cyclones. The Pilbara coastline (Broome to Exmouth) receives tropical cyclones with a frequency and severity higher than anywhere else in Australia, with an average of two tropical cyclones crossing the Pilbara coastline each year (Loechel et al. 2011a).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 1: Shire of Roebourne regional location

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 2: Town site locations

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

40 80

35 70

30 60

C) 25 50

20 40 Mean rainfall Mean max temp 15 30 Rainfall (mm) Temperature ( Mean min temp

10 20

5 10

0 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Month

Figure 3 – Shire of Roebourne average monthly climate statistics Source: BoM 2013

3.1.2.1 Predicted climate change

Maximum temperatures throughout the Pilbara have risen between 0.05–0.15°C per decade over the period 1960–2010 (Loechel et al. 2011b). During the same period, rainfall has increased in the north and central inland areas of the Pilbara by 0–50 mm per decade, but has decreased by 0–15 mm per decade in south-western areas close to the coast (Loechel et al. 2011b).

Climate change projections vary markedly across numerous recent studies undertaken for the Pilbara region. Results from one study on climate change are provided in Table 2. These temperature and rainfall projections have been made according to four of the best performing climate models available (NCAR: National Centre for Atmospheric Research; ECHAM: Max Planck Institute for Meteorology; GFDL: Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory; HADGEM: Hadley Centre Global Environmental Model) and reflect both summer (November to April) and winter (May to October) periods to 2030 and 2070 relative to a 1990 baseline.

Table 2 – Projected climate change scenarios for temperature and rainfall NCAR NCAR ECHAM ECHAM GFDL GFDL HADGEM HADGEM Temp Rain Temp (°C) Rain (%) Temp Rain Temp (°C) Rain (%) (°C) (%) (°C) (%) November– 0.87 8 1.19 -1 1.37 -6 1.08 -4 April 2030 May–October 1.28 -8 1.19 -2 1.29 -6 1.02 1 2030 November– 2.35 21 3.23 -4 3.71 -17 2.90 -11 April 2070 May–October 3.44 -22 3.24 -6 3.49 -22 2.76 4 2070 Source: Loechel et al. 2011b

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

The models provided in Table 2 project an increase in temperature of slightly over 1°C by 2030, which will increase the rate of evapotranspiration in the region. Although one model suggests an increase in summer rainfall of 8% by 2030, the remaining models project decreases of approximately 4% across the summer, which may affect water availability in the region. The already low winter season rainfall is expected to drop by around 4% by 2030.

Projections for 2070 indicate a temperature increase of around 3°C compared with 1990. One projection (NCAR) shows a substantial increase in summer rainfall of 21%, although the other three models show declines averaging 11% over the summer period. The majority of scenarios show a decrease in rainfall during the winter period.

Future climate scenarios provided in Loechel et al. (2011b) generally indicate a hotter and drier Pilbara climate; however, rainfall projections vary markedly between the models, suggesting a greater degree of uncertainty for future rainfall trends. In a context of continued industry and population growth, increased evapotranspiration and reduced rainfall can be expected to put additional stress on availability of water resources.

Loechel et al. (2011b) also projects an increase in the severity of extreme weather events and storms, including an increase in the strength of tropical cyclones impacting the Pilbara. An increase in tropical cyclone intensity not only increases the degree of destruction at the centre of the cyclone but also the geographic area over which the cyclonic winds and flooding rains impact (Loechel et al. 2011b).

In another climate change study, projections for Karratha provided by JDA et al. (2012a, 2012b) indicate the following, which are generally indicative of findings from Loechel et al. (2011b):  the projected climate conditions for 2060 include a 0.3 m rise in sea level, 10% increase in intensity and frequency of cyclones and a 0–20% increase in rainfall intensity for events greater than a 20-year ARI (Average Recurrence Interval) storm event;  the projected climate conditions for 2110 include a 0.9 m rise in sea level, 10% increase in intensity and frequency of cyclones and a 10–30% increase in rainfall intensity for events greater than a 20-year ARI event.

Potential impacts from climate change on development within the Shire will exacerbate those associated with coastal processes (refer to Section 3.1.4), and combined, have the potential to significantly constrain future development of the Shire, particularly within the Point Samson and Cossack townsites. The combined effects of these factors are discussed further in Section 3.1.4.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.3 Landform and topography

The Pilbara region contains a diverse range of landform features, from low mud flats, rocky promontories and sandy beaches of coastal areas, to inland desert areas characterised by stony ridges, abrupt escarpments and steep scree slopes, separated by stony, sediment plains (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Coastal settlements of the Shire are contained within an extensive coastal plain traversed by numerous north flowing rivers that drain the northern side of the Chichester Plateau. The coastal plain is generally alluvial and has varying topography including areas of extensive flat plains from 0–50 mAHD (Australian Height Datum), low stony hills and flat top residual rock outcrops from 50–100 mAHD (Figure 4).

Each of the coastal settlements has been developed on low-lying areas of the coastal plain and avoids hilly or rocky areas. This has created ongoing flood, storm surge and drainage risks, which is expected to increase with the projected increase in tropical cyclone and storm activity in the area.

Dampier, Point Samson and Cossack are situated immediately on the coast. Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne and Wickham are located adjacent to hilly areas. Consequently, landform and topography have restricted development of coastal settlements within the Shire, assisted in defining the current form of these settlements and is expected to continue to be a physical limiter on proposed land use within the Shire.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 4: Topography

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.4 Coastal processes

Coastal, low lying areas of the Shire are extremely vulnerable to inundation during tropical cyclones, storms and tsunami events. These areas are subject to very large tidal ranges, which coupled with the adjacent wide and shallow continental shelf, leads to the coastline being highly susceptible to storm surge and impacts from tsunamis (GEMS 2009).

The strongest cyclone ever to cross the Australian coast, Severe Tropical Cyclone Vance (March 1999), narrowly missed Karratha and Dampier but caused millions of dollars worth of damage to Onslow and Exmouth.

In 2006, cyclones Clare and Glenda caused inundation throughout coastal settlements of the Shire. While storm surges were associated with both events, wave action from Glenda had the more significant impact, with maximum surge at Point Samson coinciding with a very high tide, resulting in surges of 3.7 m above mean sea level (GEMS 2009). This level was estimated to be exceeded at Cossack, where sediment deposits on local infrastructure were observed to be as high as 5 mAHD (GEMS 2009).

Modelling scenarios considered in this report are the 100-year ARI Stormwater Flood Extent and the 500- year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Selection of this data was based on providing worst-case scenario modelling to determine impacts from coastal processes in accordance with State Planning Policy 2.6 State Coastal Planning Policy.

The 100-year ARI Stormwater Flood Extent shows those areas that will be affected by stormwater from an oncoming 100-year storm, essentially displaying the path of stormwater runoff and flooding. The 500- year ARI Storm Surge Extent shows those areas affected by an oncoming 500-year ARI storm due to the combined impacts from rises in sea level, rivers, tides and wave action associated with wind stress and low atmospheric pressure. In the Shire of Roebourne, these scenarios would normally be associated with tropical cyclones.

3.1.4.1 Coastal processes for Greater Shire of Roebourne

GEMS (2009) documents integration of historical storm surge modelling data into a revised storm surge model (GEMSURGE) and wave model (SWAN) to produce a suite of inundation maps for the area between Cleaverville and Cossack covering the 10-year, 25-year, 50-year, 100-year, 500-year and 1000- year ARI events. Results indicate that most of this coastal area is affected by the 10-year ARI event and certainly by the 100-year ARI event (GEMS 2009).

Modelling results for the area between Cleaverville and Cossack (described above) were combined with results from previous studies to produce a single data set for the 100-year ARI event for coastal areas of the Shire between Dampier and Cossack (Figure 5). Results indicate that Point Samson and Cossack settlements are significantly affected by this event. However, Wickham, Roebourne, Karratha and Dampier are only partially affected, with the line of inundation reaching the outskirts of built up areas for these settlements. Key infrastructure (roads, rail, powerlines, etc) which link each settlement is also expected to be affected by the 100-year ARI event.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.4.2 Coastal processes for Dampier

JDA Consultant Hydrologists identified areas of Dampier prone to inundation from the effects of climate change, cyclonic activity, flooding and storm surge. The Dampier Coastal Vulnerability Study (JDA et al. 2012a) provides conclusions on climate change (refer to Section 3.1.2.1), coastal movement and potential areas of inundation across Dampier at three time periods (2010, 2060 and 2110), as detailed in the following paragraphs:

The Dampier Coastal Vulnerability Study determined that much of the study area was subject to some degree of inundation following the 100-year ARI flood event. Within the Dampier townsite, flooding was generally restricted to the roads, reserves and creek lines, with only minor, localised flooding of residential and commercial lots. Generally, runoff was generated locally, and greater depths of ponding were found in downstream locations or within topographic low points in the landscape.

Storm surge impacts to Dampier were limited to coastal areas with Foul Point, the Ian Williams Crescent boat ramp and beach south of the Hampton Sports Oval the areas of greatest inundation. The largest impact from flooding was The Esplanade on either side of Ian Williams Crescent, which experienced inundation following the 100-year ARI event, with approximately 200 m of road surface under water for a period of time. This is due to culverts under The Esplanade not having the capacity to discharge flow from the creek along Central Avenue. Ian Williams Crescent was also inundated from The Esplanade to the boat ramp under this modelling scenario.

The simulated change in climate from 2010 to 2060 to 2100 resulted in increased flood levels across Dampier. For the 2060 scenario, flood levels generally increased by 0.1–0.2 m within terrestrial creeks, with the predicted change in sea level (0.3 m) resulting in a storm surge level increase of up to 0.5 m. Similarly, flood levels increased further for the 2110 scenario. Impact of climate change on flood extent was not significant within the town catchments, but more pronounced near the coast as a result of sea level rise increasing inundation.

Shoreline location was predicted to change as a result of sea level rise and climate change. A rocky scarp dominates the Dampier coastline and limits shoreline retreat. Beach areas show the greatest impact of climate change, with shoreline retreating between 40 m and 100 m. The greatest impact was seen at Dampier and Hampton Sports Ovals, which were areas of mobile sediment. Infrastructure impacted included the two ovals and club houses and The Esplanade embankment north of Foul Point.

3.1.4.3 Coastal processes for Karratha

JDA Consultant Hydrologists identified areas of Karratha prone to inundation from the effects of climate change, cyclonic activity, flooding and storm surge. The Karratha Coastal Vulnerability Study (JDA et al. 2012b) provides conclusions on climate change (refer to Section 3.1.2.1), coastal movement and potential areas of inundation across Karratha at three time periods (2010, 2060 and 2110), as detailed in the following paragraphs:

The Karratha Coastal Vulnerability Study determined that a significant proportion of the study area was subject to some degree of inundation following a 100-year ARI flood event, with the Nickol River tidal flats impacted by storm surge. Riverine flooding was generally along 7 Mile Creek and the western tributaries of Nickol River.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

In general, extending development in Karratha was not impacting by flooding, with most of the existing townsite, Gap Ridge, Baynton West and the Karratha Light Industrial Area situated above the 100-year ARI flood level. The only affected areas were properties along Balmoral Road between Gawthorne Drive and Warambie Road, which were subject to some inundation as a result of storm surge.

The road bridges on North West Coastal Highway at Nickol River, Turnoff, Lulu and Hilux Creeks all provided protection against the 10-year ARI event, but the roadway was subject to some inundation in the 100-year ARI event. Other creek crossings along North West Coastal Highway were generally floodways and subject to inundation, where the length of inundation varied between 200 m and several kilometres. The road bridge at Dampier Road for 7 Mile Creek has a level of service just under the 100-year ARI, with a shallow depth of flow over a short length of roadway expected to occur following this event.

The area to the south of the Karratha Hills and north of North West Coastal Highway was subject to some inundation, but flow was often shallow and this area may be developable. A significant depth of flow may occur within creek lines. The majority of the area between Turnoff Creek, Nickol River, North West Coastal Highway and the eastern section of the Karratha Hills was subject to inundation.

The simulated change in climate from 2010 to 2060 to 2100 resulted in increased flood levels across the study area. For the 2060 scenario, flood levels generally increased by 0.2–0.3 m, with the predicted changed in sea level (0.3 m) accounting for changes adjacent to the coast and increased rainfall intensities accounting for increased flood levels inland. Similarly, flood levels increased further for the 2110 scenario. Shoreline location is predicted to change as a result of sea level rise and climate change.

In the Western Nickol Bay, the Dampier Salt bunds were assumed to be protected by infrastructure following the expected change in sea level over the 100 year timeframe. The tidal creek expansion was predicted to accelerate as sea level increases. Destabilisation of fringing mangroves will occur with increased sediment transport resulting from sea level rise over the 100 year timeframe, which may result in breaching of the dune adjacent to the airport.

In the West Karratha section, a tidal flat and mangrove fringe is backed by a high, largely continuous coastal dune. The sediment demand of the tidal flat is unlikely to be met due to sea level rise, which is expected to result in progressive inundation of the tidal flat and subsequent destabilisation of the mangroves. As sea level rise continues, the coastal dune may be breached due to zones of focussed erosion. Breaching is likely to occur by 2110.

The East Karratha section of coast has a narrow fringe of mangroves fronting a thin section of low lying sandy foreshore backed by rocky hinterland. The mangroves are expected to be destabilised due to rising sea levels; however, the rock structure provides a significant constraint to potential coastal movement.

Wave run-up in the Karratha area was estimated based on empirical techniques. The most significant factor impacting wave run-up is the near and onshore slopes. Modelling of the Karratha floodplain areas impacted by the 100-year to 500-year ARI storm surge events indicates that wave run-up is less than 0.3 m. Future development in these floodplain areas may require management where fill is required to provide clearance, as this may result in steep batter slopes which will significantly increase wave run-up.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.4.4 Flood and storm surge mapping outputs and summary

The following sources of available data were drawn on to create a Shire of Roebourne coastal processes map (Figure 6) to determine those areas of the Shire subject to the affects of flooding and storm surge for the 100-year and 500-year ARI events in accordance with State Planning Policy 2.6 State Coastal Planning Policy:

 JDA et al. (2012a, 2012b), which provides a series of flood maps highlighting areas of Dampier and Karratha subject to flooding and storm surge impacts following the 100-year and 500-year ARI events;  GEMS (2009), which indicates areas of the greater Shire of Roebourne subject to inundation following the 100-year ARI event, as well as the depth of inundation;  data provided by Shire of Roebourne, which indicates areas around the Roebourne townsite subject to storm surge inundation following a 500-year ARI event.

Results indicate that storm surge from a 500-year ARI event will affect the existing Karratha and Dampier townsites, particularly those areas situated at the northern and north-western outskirts respectively. Similarly, stormwater flood extent following a 100-year ARI event will affect both townsites, as indicated in the detailed extracts above.

Eastern outskirts of the Roebourne townsite are marginally affected by storm surge from a 500-year ARI event, but the existing townsite lies outside the 100 ARI event inundation line, which is generally associated with the Harding River to the east.

The existing Wickham townsite is situated outside the 100 ARI event inundation line, which will constrain future development to the east and northwest. Conversely, future development within the Point Samson and Cossack townsites will be significantly constrained due to the coastal location of each and associated inundation expected to occur from a 100-year ARI event.

Coastal processes, particularly flooding and storm surge, will continue to have a significant effect on current and future development of the Shire, particularly low lying areas around Point Samson and Cossack. Consequently, coastal processes are a key environmental constraint and limiter on land use and are expected to be a major factor in determining future planning and development outcomes in the region.

Future development within areas of the modelled 100-year ARI Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent is not advised; however, potential development may not necessarily be completely restricted provided due consideration of coastal processes has been incorporated into building design, in accordance with adaptive management measures outlined in State Planning Policy 2.6 State Coastal Planning Policy.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 5: West Pilbara coastal processes (GEMS 2009)

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 6: Shire of Roebourne coastal processes

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.5 Geology and soils

3.1.5.1 Regional geology

Geological Survey of Western Australia provides the Urban Geology Series of maps (1:50 000) covering coastal areas of the Shire (GSWA 1979a, 1979b, 1979c, 1980). Key geological features include limestone islands, coastal plains, coastal flats, beaches, dunes and mud and silt flats, which are described in detail in the Shire of Roebourne Coastal Management Strategy (SoR 2005a).

3.1.5.2 Land system descriptions

Van Vreeswyk et al. (2004) provides descriptions for land systems identified as part of the Pilbara region condition survey and inventory. Land systems occurring throughout coastal areas of the Shire are illustrated in Figure 7 and described in Table 3. Geology is not expected to be a significant limiter on land use for strategic planning purposes, but will need to be investigated further at future, more detailed stages of development at the site level.

Table 3 – Land system descriptions

Land Geology Geomorphology Land management Condition Townsite system summary Boolgeeda Quaternary Predominantly Hard spinifex Vegetation: N/A colluvium depositional surfaces; grasslands are not very good very gently inclined stony preferred by livestock 82%, good slopes and plains below but soft spinifex is 13%, fair 4%, hill systems becoming moderately preferred poor 1%. Soil almost level further down- for a few years erosion: nil slope; closely spaced, following fire. 100%. dendritic and sub-parallel Vegetation is generally drainage lines. Relief up not prone to to about 20 m. degradation and the system is not susceptible to erosion. The system is subject to fairly frequent burning. Calcrete Tertiary Depositional surfaces; Some shrubs and Vegetation: N/A calcrete, minor valley fill deposits-stony grasses associated very good Quaternary plains as a mosaic of with the spinifex 72%, good alluvium calcrete tables and low grasslands of this 17%, fair 8%, rises elevated up to 10 m system are attractive to poor 2%, very above the surrounding grazing animals and poor 1%. Soil surfaces of narrow inter- may be depleted if erosion: nil table drainage areas and grazing levels are 99%, minor restricted sandy plains; excessive. Low 1%. drainage patterns absent erosion risk. to sparse tributary tracts and occasional through going trunk channels.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Land Geology Geomorphology Land management Condition Townsite system summary Cheerawarra Quaternary Depositional surfaces; Most units of the Vegetation: N/A eolian sand gently undulating, sandy system are highly very good and alluvium surfaced coastal plains susceptible to wind 34%, good and level plains with erosion if vegetative 34%; fair 14%; saline clay soils and bare cover is depleted. poor 14%, very saline scalds with wind poor 4%. Soil hummocks; very rare erosion: nil distributary drainage 90%; minor lines. 3%; moderate 7%. Granitic Archaean and Erosional surfaces; hill Much of the system is Vegetation: Dampier Proterozoic tracts and domes on poorly accessible; hard very good granite, gneiss, granitic rocks with rough spinifex vegetation is 97%, good granodiorite crests, associated rocky not preferred by 2%, fair 1%. and porphyry hill slopes, restricted livestock, soft spinifex Soil erosion: lower stony plains; is moderately nil 100%. narrow, widely spaced preferred. The system tributary drainage floors is subject to fairly and channels. Relief up frequent burning and is to 100 m. not susceptible to erosion. Horseflat Quaternary Depositional surfaces; Tussock grass Vegetation: Karratha, alluvium gilgaied and non-gilgaied vegetation is very good Roebourne clay plains, stony plains, moderately attractive to 17%, good narrow linear drainage grazing animals and is 30%, fair 22%, depressions and prone to decline if poor 23%, very dissected slopes marginal overgrazed. Parts of poor 8%. Soil to the River land system; some units of the erosion: nil mostly internally drained, system (non-gilgaied 82%, slight some through going trunk plains, alluvial plains 5%, minor 2%, drainage channels. and dissected slopes, moderate 5%, units 4, 5 and 6) are severe 3%, moderately to highly extreme 3%. susceptible to erosion if vegetation is depleted, other flat units with clay soils and stony mantles are inherently resistant. Littoral Quaternary Depositional surfaces; About 70% of the Vegetation: Point mudflat saline coastal flats; system is tidal flat very good Samson, deposits, clay, estuarine and littoral which supports no 59%, good Cossack salt and sand; surfaces with extensive vegetation, coastal 31%, fair 10%. eolian sand bare saline tidal flats dunes are highly Soil erosion: subject to infrequent tidal susceptible to wind nil 96%, slight inundation, slightly higher erosion if plant cover is 2%, minor 2%. samphire flats and alluvial lost by fire or other plains, mangrove disturbance; mangrove seaward fringes with communities are dense branching patterns significant habitats. of shallow tidal creeks, minor coastal dunes, limestone ridges, sandy plains and beaches. Relief up to 8 m.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Land Geology Geomorphology Land management Condition Townsite system summary Macroy Archaean Erosional surfaces; gently Mature spinifex Vegetation: N/A granite and undulating stony plains vegetation is not very good granodiorite; and interfluves with quartz preferred by grazing 85%, good Quaternary surface mantles, sandy animals but younger 9%, fair 5%, eluvium, surfaced plains, minor stands after burning poor 1%. Soil colluvium and calcrete plains, closely are moderately erosion: nil minor alluvium spaced tributary drainage preferred. Vegetation 98%, slight lines in upper parts of is generally not prone 1%, minor 1%. system becoming much to grazing induced wider down-slope; minor changes but fairly granite hills, tor fields and regular fires change quartz ridges. Relief is up botanical composition to 25 m. and vegetation structure in the short term. The system has low or very low erosion hazard. Mallina Quaternary Depositional surfaces; Soft spinifex vegetation Vegetation: N/A alluvium and level sandy surfaced is moderately preferred very good eluvium plains on alluvium with by grazing animals if 42%, good occasional patches of kept in immature 36%, fair 15%, small claypans, minor condition by poor 7%. Soil clay plains with gilgai appropriate fire and erosion: nil microrelief, minor stony grazing management. 87%, slight plains and occasional Alluvial plains (unit 3) 6%, minor 4%, isolated low hills; are moderately to moderate 3%. drainage patterns highly susceptible to restricted to rare, non erosion if vegetative tributary through channels cover is seriously with narrow terraces. depleted. River Quaternary Flood plains and river Buffel grass and soft Vegetation: Roebourne alluvium terraces subject to fairly spinifex on this system very good regular overbank flooding are highly and 56%, good from major channels and moderately preferred 26%, fair 13%, watercourses, sandy respectively by poor 5%. Soil banks and poorly defined livestock. The system erosion: nil levees and cobble plains. is largely stabilised by 94%, slight Banks, levees and slightly buffel and spinifex and 3%, minor 2%, higher upper terraces accelerated erosion is moderate 1%. receive less regular uncommon. However, flooding than lower susceptibility to erosion terraces and flood plains is high or very high if vegetative cover is removed.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Land Geology Geomorphology Land management Condition Townsite system summary Rocklea Archaean Erosional surfaces; hills, Spinifex hummock Vegetation: N/A basalt, Lower ridges and plateaux grasslands are poorly very good Proterozoic remnants on basalt with accessible and are 89%, good basalt, dolerite, steep stony slopes, generally not preferred 7%, fair 2%, tuff and restricted lower slopes, by livestock. The poor 2%. Soil agglomerate, stony interfluves and system is subject to erosion: nil minor shale minor gilgai plains; fairly regular burning. 100%. and jaspilite moderately spaced The system has very tributary drainage low erosion hazard. patterns of small channels in shallow valleys in upper parts becoming broader floors and channels down-slope. Relief up to 110 m. Ruth Archaean and Erosional surfaces; Predominantly hard Vegetation: Karratha, Proterozoic rounded hills and ridges spinifex vegetation very good Roebourne, intermediate with restricted lower which is not preferred 72%, good Cossack and basic slopes and stony by livestock. Some 11%, fair 11%, volcanic rocks; interfluves, moderately to soft spinifex which is poor 6%. Soil also quartz, widely spaced drainage moderately attractive erosion: nil minor chert, patterns. Relief up to for a few years 100%. jaspilite, shale 90 m. following fire. The and siltstone system is prone to fairly regular burning but is not susceptible to erosion. Sherlock Quaternary Depositional surfaces; Snakewood Vegetation: N/A alluvium level stony alluvial plains communities and very good with some gilgai tussock grasslands on 41%, good development; very rare, this system include low 15%, poor mainly non-tributary, shrubs and perennial 37%, very poor through going drainage grasses which are 7%. Soil lines and channels. highly preferred by erosion: nil grazing animals and 96%, minor are prone to 4%. degradation if overgrazed. The system is generally not susceptible to erosion.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Land Geology Geomorphology Land management Condition Townsite system summary Uaroo Quaternary Depositional surfaces; The system supports Vegetation: Wickham colluvium and level sandy plains up to hard spinifex very good alluvium 10 km or more in extent vegetation which is not 68%, good with little organised preferred by grazing 24%, fair 7%, through drainage; pebbly animals and soft poor 1%. Soil surfaced plains and plains spinifex which is erosion: nil with calcrete at shallow moderately preferred 99%, slight depth; broad, mostly when young such as 1%. unchannelled, tracts for 2 or 3 years receiving more following burning. concentrated sheet flow, Occasionally some minor low stony hills and erosion and pasture rises. Relief mostly less decline is evident on than 10 m but isolated drainage tracts (unit 6), hills up to 30 m. but generally the system is not susceptible to erosion or significant vegetation degradation. Source: Van Vreeswyk et al. 2004

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 7: Land systems

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.5.3 Soils

Numerous soil types are found on the Roebourne coastline. Saline loams with shelly sands occupy areas of coastal flats which fringe the mainland coast (SoR 2005). Major soils comprising the broad coastal plain of the region include alkaline red soils between Port Weld and the Fortescue River; brown loams and earthy loam soils in the area south of Cape Preston; deep cracking clays around Balla Balla River; and red earths, soils and light clays between Balla Balla River and Peawah River (SoR 2005). The stony hills in the vicinity of Karratha, Cleaverville, Roebourne, Wickham and Point Samson have shallow, stony earth loams, although there are extensive areas without soil cover (SoR 2005a). Soil type is not expected to be a significant limiter on land use for strategic planning purposes, but will need to be investigated further at future, more detailed stages of development at the site level.

3.1.5.4 Acid sulphate soils

Acid sulphate soils (ASS) are naturally occurring soils, sediments and peats that contain iron sulphides, predominantly in the form of pyrite materials. These soils are most commonly found in low-lying land bordering the coast or estuarine and saline wetlands and groundwater-dependent wetlands (DEC 2009). If located below the natural water table, disturbance, such as through dredging or excavation activities, can cause these materials to oxidise, which results in a reduced soil pH and often the formation of a yellow and/or red mottling in the soil profile (DEC 2009). Acidity can then be transferred to waterways through mobilisation of the oxidised material, which can cause environmental harm. Groundwater dependent vegetation can also be adversely affected by the release of metals into the low pH groundwater, particularly aluminium.

ASS risk has been mapped for coastal areas of the Shire (Figure 8). ASS risk generally decreases with increasing distance from the sea and watercourses/drainage lines. ASS risk mapping indicates that Point Samson and Cossack contain the highest ASS risk, as they occur predominantly in areas of low to high probability of ASS occurring within 3 m of the natural soil surface. This is a direct result of the coastal, low lying location of these settlements.

Karratha and Roebourne are considered to contain the next highest ASS risk, as they occur in areas of extremely low, low and high probabilities of ASS occurring within 3 m of the natural soil surface. Dampier and Wickham occur predominantly in areas with an extremely low probability of ASS occurring within 3 m of the natural soils surface.

Although the above information suggests a significant presence of potential ASS along coastline and mudflat areas of the Shire, site investigations have yet to encounter any actual acid sulphate soils (Essential Environmental 2013a). Nevertheless, the occurrence of potential ASS will need to be a key consideration of any future development in the Shire, which is usually undertaken at later planning stages, such as local structure planning. This will involve confirmation of the presence of ASS during any ground work associated with specific developments. Where ASS is confirmed, site specific management strategies will need to be developed and implemented in order to minimise the environmental impact from exposure or disturbance of these soils.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 8: Acid sulphate soils

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.6 Hydrogeology

Fractured rock aquifers dominate coastal and inland areas of the Shire (Figure 9) and exist within a variety of different basement rock formations across the Pilbara coast. Groundwater occurs where secondary porosity is developed in fractured and weathered zones or along bedding planes and joints (Haig 2009). The rocks contain very little groundwater outside of these zones. Groundwater recharge is rainfall dependent and will only occur directly where fractured, jointed and weathered zones are exposed to rainfall (Haig 2009). Recharge will also happen through leakage from overlying sediments and from surface flows directly to areas of secondary porosity. Groundwater flow is largely controlled by local geological structures and weathering (Haig 2009).

Alluvial aquifers overly fractured rock aquifers along coastal areas of the Shire where groundwater is generally contained in unconfined conditions in Quaternary sediments. Groundwater is in hydraulic connection with the underlying weathered fractured rock aquifers. Recharge to coastal alluvial aquifers occurs mostly from river flow (Haig 2009). Consequently, the most important areas for groundwater resources are where the major surface watercourses cross the coastal plain. Groundwater salinity is also lowest in these zones.

The abovementioned aquifers are not utilised as sources of water supply to the Shire since groundwater storages are small and yield is reliant on seasonal effects and is consequently unreliable.

3.1.7 Surface hydrology

The Shire covers numerous surface water catchments, including Fortescue River, George River, Harding River, Maitland River, Peawah River, Peter Creek, Robe River, Sherlock River, Turner River, Yule River and Coastal catchments (Figure 10). Coastal settlements of the Shire are situated within the Coastal catchment area.

All waterways in the Shire of Roebourne are highly variable, flowing for only part of the year in response to larger, generally cyclonic, rainfall events (Essential Environmental 2013a). Major river systems of the Shire originate on higher ground to the south and traverse over the coastal plain, with most watercourses terminating in sand and mud flats some distance inland from the sea (SoR 2005a).

The major drainage system in proximity to coastal settlements of the Shire is the Harding River, which traverses Roebourne and discharges near Cossack (Figure 10). The Harding Dam, located upstream from Roebourne along the Harding River, is the only surface water source used as a major water supply in the Pilbara. There are numerous tributaries of smaller river systems, creek lines and drainage lines that occur throughout the coastal plain; however, these are predominantly ephemeral but can be subject to flooding following cyclonic events (refer to Section 3.1.4).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 9: Water resources included in the Pilbara Groundwater Allocation Plan

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 10: Surface hydrology and water supply

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.1.8 Water supply

Water supply to the Shire is via the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme, which occurs through conjunctive use of the Millstream aquifer (borefield) and Harding Dam. Due to evaporation losses and high levels of sediment, the Harding Dam is not a continually reliable water source, and is only able to supply water at current levels of demand for approximately two years without a large recharge event (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Taking into account the variability in recharge of the Millstream aquifer, the combined reliable yield for the scheme is 10 GL/year with 94% reliability (DoW 2012). However, current demand on the scheme is around 14 GL/year, which is expected to increase to 18.5 GL/year by 2016 and 27.5 GL/year by 2031 in accordance with population demand projections (DoW 2012). The port facilities at Cape Lambert, Dampier and the Burrup Peninsula are the main industry users of scheme water (Haig 2009).

A recent state agreement with Rio Tinto will see this scheme augmented with 10 GL of water from the Bungaroo Valley for the next two years (until 2015), although the long term security of this supply is not known (Essential Environmental 2013a).

3.1.8.1 Water source protection areas

Surface and groundwater resources of the Shire are contained within the Pilbara Surface and Groundwater Areas, which are proclaimed and protected under the RiWI Act. In addition, there are two PDWSAs in the Shire protected under the CAWS Act. These are the Harding Dam Catchment Area, which includes the Millstream aquifer (Protection Area P1); and the Roebourne Water Reserve (Protection Area not assigned) (Figure 10). Any future development of the Shire will need to consider potential impacts on these PDWSAs, as required under the CAWS Act.

3.1.8.2 Potential water supply options

Haig (2009) provided a range of water supply options for the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme to achieve future demand targets. These include: 1. Lower Fortescue River alluvium: this is a well documented resource with early estimates of potential yield around 10 GL/year. However, a sustainable yield is probably much less than this and further work is required to assess any potential environmental impacts. 2. Fractured bedrock aquifers: associated with the Sholl shear zone in the vicinity of the Upper Harding River have been explored at three locations. Estimates of total potential yield from the three sites range from 3–6 GL/year; however, significant work is required to prove up the resources. 3. Maitland River and George River areas: minor groundwater resources have been identified. The resources are limited and have not been extensively investigated. The resources may have some potential as supplementary sources and future assessment work is warranted.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4. Millstream aquifer system: this has been extensively investigated through drilling and test pumping and is used conjunctively with the Harding Dam as the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme. Millstream aquifer has yielded 4 GL/year during drought periods without significant falls in aquifer levels. Yields of about 9 GL/year have been problematic, while yields at 14– 15 GL/year have resulted in significant falls in aquifer levels. Due to the significance and sensitivity of the dependent ecosystems, the aquifer is managed using numerous criteria including mean minimum aquifer levels and rates of decline. When necessary, supplementation to maintain pools and springs is required. A numerical groundwater model has been developed for the aquifer to assess impacts, but this requires further work.

The use of water from the dewatering of mine sites should also be given consideration, potentially providing additional water sources to be used for purposes appropriate to its quality and volume (Essential Environmental 2013a).

3.1.9 Salinity risk

Groundwater salinity in the Pilbara is documented to be lowest in the coastal alluvial and fractured rock aquifers (Haig 2009). This is supported by Department of Water salinity risk mapping, which indicates that groundwater underlying coastal settlements of the Shire has salinity levels of 1000–3000 mg/L TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) grading to 500–1000 mg/L TDS at inland locations (Figure 11). Salinity risk increases to 3000–7000 mg/L TDS along the south-western coastline beyond 40 Mile Beach. Salinity is not considered to be a significant constraint to future development of the Shire.

3.1.10 Contaminated sites

Known contaminated sites located in the vicinity of coastal settlements of the Shire were mapped using the DER Contaminated Sites database. A total of seven contaminated sites were identified, detailed in Table 4 with locations illustrated in Figure 12. Contamination consisted of hydrocarbons in soil and groundwater, metals and polychlorinated biphenyls in soil and asbestos in soil.

There is a potential risk posed by the existence of sites that are contaminated, but are yet to be registered on the database. Contaminated material, due to inadequate operational practices in relation to past activities, could be present for unregistered sites within the Shire. Verification of the presence of contaminated sites requires a site specific sampling and analysis program in accordance with relevant guidelines. This should be undertaken to inform future development at the site level.

Table 4 – Details of contaminated sites

Location Classification BP Service Station and Road Reserve, 30 Balmoral Road, Karratha WA 6714 Contaminated – remediation required 1032/1033 Mardie Road and Road Reserve, Karratha Industrial Estate WA Contaminated – remediation 6714 required 1932 Coolawanyah Road, Karratha Industrial Estate WA 6714 Contaminated – remediation required Lot 65 on Plan 241547, Point Samson WA 6720 Contaminated – remediation required Lot 175 on Plan 26146, Gap Ridge WA 6714 Contaminated – remediation required

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Dampier Fuel Facility, Parker Point Road, Dampier WA 6713 Contaminated – remediation required Lot 17 on Plan 205908, Roebourne WA 6718 Remediated for restricted use

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 11: Salinity risk

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 12: Contaminated sites

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.2 Biological environment

3.2.1 Bioregional context

Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) divides Western Australia into 26 biogeographic regions and 53 subregions based on dominant landscape characteristics of climate, lithology, geology, landform and vegetation (McKenzie et al. 2003).

The Shire is situated in the Pilbara bioregion and comprises three IBRA subregions (Figure 13), including (as described in McKenzie et al. 2003): 1. Roebourne subregion: comprises Quaternary alluvial and older colluvial coastal and sub- coastal plains, with a grass savanna of mixed bunch and hummock grasses, and dwarf shrub steppe of Acacia translucens or A. pyrifolia and A. inaequilatera. Resistant linear ranges of basalts occur across the coastal plains. These uplands are dominated by Triodia hummock grasslands. Ephemeral drainage lines support Eucalyptus woodlands. Samphire, Sporobolus grasslands and Mangal occur on the marine alluvial flats and river deltas. The islands are Quaternary sand accumulations, basalt and/or limestone. The majority of coastal Shire settlements occur within the Roebourne subregion. 2. Chichester subregion: has undulating Archaean granite and basalt plains including significant areas of basaltic ranges. Plains support a shrub steppe characterised by Acacia pyrifolia over Triodia pungens hummock grasslands, while Eucalyptus leucophloia tree steppes occur on the ranges. 3. Hamersley subregion: is a mountainous area of Proterozoic sedimentary ranges and plateaux, dissected by basalt, shale and dolerite gorges. The valley floors have low mulga woodland over bunch grasses on fine textured soils, while the ranges have Eucalyptus leucophloia over Triodia brizoides on skeletal soils.

3.2.2 Terrestrial vegetation and flora

3.2.2.1 Predominant vegetation types

The pre-European vegetation extent located throughout coastal areas of the Shire is consistent with the Abydos Plain vegetation type (Figure 14). This vegetation is described by Beard (1975) as containing the following vegetation communities: 1. Shrub steppe: the predominant community of the granite plain is shrub steppe of the Acacia pyrifolia-Triodia pungens association, in which there is a general cover of hummock grasses dotted with rather widely spaced shrubs. 2. Dwarf-shrub steppe: on the seaward margin of the granite plain, between the Sherlock and Strelley Rivers, the alluvium is mainly sandy and there are extensive sandplains covered by dwarf-shrub steppe in which there is a general cover of the hummock grass Triodia pungens interspersed by numerous very low spreading shrubs of Acacia translucens. 3. Grass plains: where finer-grained alluvium has been deposited, particularly those derived from the weathering of basic rocks, there are open plains of grass or mixed grass/spinifex.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 13: Bioregional context

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 14: Pre-European vegetation extent

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.2.2.2 Flora diversity and conservation significance

Coastal areas of the Shire and offshore islands comprise significant native flora values. Terrestrial areas of the Dampier Archipelago support a high proportion (approximately 32%) of the flowering plant species known from the Pilbara region (Essential Environmental 2013a). In addition, approximately 200 different vegetation associations have been described on the Burrup Peninsula, which is a reflection of the area’s habitat diversity (DEC 2006). The Burrup Peninsula Conservation Reserve, Murujuga National Park and Dampier Archipelago Nature Reserves were created to protect these significant flora values.

According to the DER Threatened Flora Database, five Priority 3 species are recorded in the vicinity of Karratha, including one located in the Karratha foothills adjacent to the existing town centre (Essential Environmental 2013a). There are no flora species protected under the EPBC Act located throughout coastal areas of the Shire. The potential impact on native flora from ongoing development of the Shire will generally need to be addressed at future planning stages, such as local structure planning. This is expected to require a detailed site assessment conducted in accordance with Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors No. 51: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004a), which will determine vegetation values, condition and presence/absence of threatened flora at the site level.

3.2.3 Terrestrial fauna and habitat

3.2.3.1 Fauna diversity and conservation significance

Coastal areas of the Shire, particularly the Burrup Peninsula and Dampier Archipelago, support a wide diversity of native terrestrial fauna, including over 100 species of sea and shore birds (many of which are migratory), as well as several mammal and reptile species. These relatively undisturbed terrestrial habitats comprise numerous threatened fauna species; some of which are protected under the State WC Act and/or the Australian Government EPBC Act (refer to Appendix 1 for EPBC Act listed species).

The potential impact on native fauna from ongoing development of the Shire will generally need to be addressed at future planning stages, such as local structure planning. This is expected to require a detailed site assessment conducted in accordance with Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors No. 56: Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004b), which will determine fauna and habitat values and presence/absence of threatened fauna at the site level.

3.2.3.2 Key habitat areas

The Burrup Peninsula and islands of the Dampier Archipelago provide significant habitat for terrestrial fauna. This has resulted in creation (or proposed creation) of the Burrup Peninsula Conservation Reserve, Murujuga National Park and Dampier Archipelago Nature Reserves. Management of these conservation areas is guided by:  Dampier Archipelago Nature Reserves Management Plan 1990-2000 (CALM 1990);  Murujuga National Park Management Plan 78 (DEC 2013);  Proposed Burrup Peninsula Conservation Reserve Draft Management Plan 2006–2016 (DEC 2006). Future development of the Shire will need to be cognisant of the abovementioned management documents to ensure development does affect these key habitat areas.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.2.4 Environmentally sensitive areas

Environmentally sensitive areas comprise National Parks, conservation reserves, threatened/priority ecological communities and key habitat areas for native flora and fauna. Many different environmentally sensitive areas occur throughout the Shire, particularly along coastal areas (Figure 15). The following is a summary of environmentally sensitive areas that may restrict future development of the Shire: 1. Burrup Peninsula Conservation Reserve: is 60 km2 and has significant conservation and environmental values. The peninsula contains a diverse range of flora and fauna and provides an undisturbed habitat for many species endemic to the Pilbara. Much of the peninsula remains in a relatively untouched state. The area is also rich in aboriginal heritage sites and cultural values. The Burrup Peninsula contains the world’s richest known concentration of rock art and as such, is a conservation resource of international significance (WAPC and DoP 2009). 2. Murujuga National Park: covers an area of 4913 ha within the Burrup Peninsula, is privately owned by the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation and jointly managed with Department of Parks and Wildlife. The park is also ecologically and biologically diverse. Major landforms and habitats within the park include steep scree strewn granophyre and gabbro hills, narrow valleys, sandy and rocky shores, mangroves, mudflats and sea cliffs. Triodia pungens hummock grasslands predominate, and there are numerous other vegetation communities of limited distribution. Several threatened and migratory species are known to frequent the area and are protected under state and national environmental laws (DEC 2013). 3. Dampier Archipelago Nature Reserves: the archipelago comprises 42 islands, islets and rocks lying within 45 km of Dampier. Twenty-five of the islands are incorporated into four nature reserves, including one Class A reserve, one Class B reserve and two Class C reserves (CALM 1990). 4. Mangroves: these are located along various stretches of Shire coastline and are considered regionally significant arid zone mangroves. They act as nursery, feeding and breeding grounds for marine fauna and as buffer zones against wave action, reducing erosion and storm surge damage to coastal areas. They are considered an integral part of coastal and marine processes (WAPC and DoP 2009). 5. Ecological communities: five Priority Ecological Communities (PECs) have been identified in the Shire, including Roebourne Plains gilgai grasslands; Roebourne chenopod association; Wona Land System; Burrup Peninsula rock pile communities and the Horseflat Land System (Essential Environmental 2013a). Each PEC has an associated buffer which will need to be confirmed with DPaW prior to any potential disturbing activities, particularly in Roebourne, which is situated adjacent west of a Priority 3 PEC. There are no Threatened Ecological Communities in the Shire. 6. Turtle nesting sites: the most significant turtle rookery beaches are likely to be located around the Cape Lambert development near Wickham. Based on limited surveys, Bell’s Beach (also known as Back Beach) near Wickham is considered the most significant turtle nesting beach in the Cape Lambert area, with 90–100 Flatback turtles nesting each year. Cooling Water Beach at Cape Lambert also has turtle nesting, with 10–15 Flatback turtles nesting each year. These beaches comprise about 10% of nesting female Flatback turtles within the region. Small numbers of Green and Hawksbill turtles also nest on these beaches. There are also significant nesting beaches offshore from the Shire within the Dampier Archipelago, notably Rosemary Island, which potentially hosts the largest rookery of Hawksbill turtles globally.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 15: Environmentally sensitive areas

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.2.5 Marine environment

The mainland coastline of the Shire of Roebourne stretches for approximately 350 km and contains a diverse range of ecosystems. These marine waters fall within the Northwest Shelf Province of the Northwest Marine region, an area that supports a complex range of habitats including rocky coastlines, sandy substrates with mangroves and seagrass, and a number of islands and associated reefs (Figure 16) (Essential Environmental 2013a). These habitats support a high diversity of marine wildlife, including significant populations of state and nationally protected marine mammal, reptile and shark species (refer to Appendix 1 for EPBC Act listed species).

Key protected areas include the Dampier Archipelago Marine Park and Cape Preston Marine Management Area, which align with Department of Transport and Port Authority controlled waters located off the Karratha and Damper coast lines. Management of these specially protected marine areas is guided by the Indicative Management Plan for the Proposed Dampier Archipelago Marine Park and Cape Preston Marine Management Area (CALM 2005).

Foreshore management plans have been prepared for 40 Mile Beach, Karratha, Point Samson (Essential Environmental 2013b) and Cleaverville (SoR 2005b) to provide guidance for the management of human use impacts on the respective foreshores. Future development of coastal townsites of the Shire will need to be cognisant of the management recommendations outlined in these plans.

3.2.6 Invasive species

Introduction of weeds, pests and feral animals can lead to loss of vegetation, habitat and biodiversity, including flora and fauna, as a result of increased competition for food, water, soil and land. Key animal species of concern in the Shire include the horse, house mouse, black rat, feral cat, red fox and rabbit. Environmental weeds also require a substantial management effort to control. Key weed species in the Shire include buffel grass, prickly pear, Parkinsonia and mesquite (refer to Appendix 1 for the full list of invasive species).

Detailed site investigation to determine the presence of invasive species is expected to be required at a project specific level. The level of impact due to the presence of invasive species is dependent on the type and scale of development. This factor is unlikely to present a significant limitation on future development provided appropriate management techniques are adopted to minimise the environmental impact from invasive species.

3.2.7 Wildfire risk

Pre-European burning of spinifex grasslands was once common practice for indigenous communities. However, this no longer occurs to the same historical extent and consequently, fuel loads throughout the Shire have accumulated and pose an increased wildfire risk to life, property and the environment.

These altered fire regimes have the ability to significantly impact on existing settlements and biodiversity values of the Shire. Fires, which may be ignited accidentally by visitors or from lightning strikes, have the ability to cause widespread damage, particularly when they occur in the hotter months of the year. As such, wildfire risk to life, property and the environment must be a key consideration for any future development in the Shire, in particular for those areas in proximity to long unburnt spinifex grassland fuels. Planning for wildfire protection is generally undertaken at later planning stages, such as Local Structure Planning.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 16: Marine environment

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.3 Social environment

3.3.1 Social context

3.3.1.1 Settlement areas

The Shire contains six key settlement areas. The key regional city of Karratha provides service support for the other centres of Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham, Cossack and Point Samson. There are also three Aboriginal communities in the Shire, including Cheeditha, which is based close to Roebourne, and Weymul and Mingullatharndo, which are more remote. The history of development of the Shire underpins the pattern of settlement (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Karratha is currently the primary service and administrative centre for the Shire. As such, the Karratha City of the North (KCN) Plan (LandCorp 2010) was developed to provide an overall framework for the future development of Karratha and subsequent evolution into a city. The KCN Plan is a ‘business plan’ for delivering the Pilbara Cities Vision to create Karratha as a:

“world leading resource development area focussing on mineral extraction, petroleum exploration and production and the primary stages of downstream processing. The region’s population will grow in the future, fuelled by specific resource development projects, the sustainable development of Karratha and a more diverse economy. A growing tourism industry will have developed based upon the region’s unique natural environment.”

3.3.1.2 Population projections

The Shire has a rapidly growing population, largely due to natural resource projects in the region which include the mining of iron ore and other minerals, and oil and gas operations. Continuing expansion of these operations, new projects and investment in infrastructure are expected to drive further population growth in the Shire.

Population projections for the Shire have been documented in an unpublished Syme Marmion & Co (2012) report, inclusive of 2011 Census Data (Table 5). The projection is based on assessments of demand created by known resource projects and the employment created, and reflects current expectations of population growth consequences in the economic base of the Shire. Results indicate that the 2011 population of 23 927 persons is expected to increase by 77% to approximately 42 430 persons by 2031.

Table 5 – Shire of Roebourne population projections

Year Population 2006 17 650 2011 23 927 2016 29 232 2021 34 442 2026 38 630 2031 42 430 Source: SMCo 2012

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

A breakdown of these population projections for each settlement area is provided in Table 6. Results indicate that:  in 2011, approximately 29% of the Shire’s population is located in settlement areas outside the Karratha district  by 2031, only 19% of the total population would be located outside the Karratha district.

Table 6 – Population projections in settlement areas of the Shire

Year Karratha district Dampier Wickham/Point Samson Roebourne town Shire total 2011 17 096 1351 2538 2942 23 927 2016 22 779 1340 2670 2443 29 232 2021 27 424 1463 3194 2361 34 442 2026 30 801 2066 3380 2383 38 630 2031 34 482 2201 3359 2388 42 430 Source: Source: Syme Marmion and Co 2012

3.3.1.3 Workforce

A significant proportion of the Shire workforce services the resource sector, including mining of iron ore and other minerals, oil and gas operations and port operations. There are two active mining operations in the Shire of Roebourne (Sino Cape Preston Iron and Dampier Salt), which accounts for much of the Shire’s workforce capacity. In addition, Karratha provides administrative and service support to a substantial part of the resources industry in the Pilbara, including the North West Shelf gas fields (Woodside resource projects), with Cape Lambert and Dampier providing port infrastructure for Rio Tinto Iron Ore operations (Essential Environmental 2013a).

The Shire is under significant pressure to retain a workforce base throughout each of the settlements. The lack of services and amenity, coupled with a high cost of living forces many to leave, with a poor reputation and lack of affordable housing also undermining the ability to attract and retain a workforce base (LandCorp 2010). This compounds the need for the resources sector to pursue a fly–in-fly-out (FIFO) operating model, which places further pressure on the Shire and stifles population growth and transition to a normal socio-economic profile (LandCorp 2010). Current estimated FIFO labour in Karratha is approximately 4000, which is around 30% of the resident population (LandCorp 2010).

Workforce projections for the Shire indicate the following, as documented in PWC (2012):  the Shire will see a decline in the overall workforce directly related to minerals and energy projects, expected to commence in 2014 and increase through to 2018;  a major driver of the decline is the large construction workforce already employed in the area in 2011, which will decrease as the current set of projects is completed;  although there will be a corresponding increase in the operations workforce, this will not be large enough to offset the decline in construction personnel. These issues are being addressed directly through implementation of the following, which aim to create sustainable regional centres throughout the Shire by normalising land and housing supply, improving infrastructure and community facilities, while supporting the health and well-being of the resident population;

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

 Pilbara Planning and Infrastructure Framework (WAPC 2012);  Pilbara Regional Sustainability Strategy (Newman et al. 2005);  Shire of Roebourne Final Strategic Plan 2009–2013 (SoR 2009);  Shire of Roebourne Strategic Community Plan 2012–2022 (SoR 2011);  Karratha City of the North Plan (LandCorp 2010).

3.3.2 Land use

3.3.2.1 Early settlement and land use

Early European settlement in the Pilbara occurred at Roebourne and Cossack in the 1860s (WAPC & DoP 2009). Early industry was largely pastoral, gold mining and pearling. Cossack grew in response to the pearling industry, and Point Samson was established as a port for Roebourne. Growth across the Shire was low until the discovery of iron ore deposits and offshore natural gas fields in the 1960s (Essential Environmental 2013a).

The response to the growth of the mining industry saw Dampier established as a port in 1963 by Hamersley Iron. Karratha was then settled in 1968 to supplement the urban capacity of Dampier in a joint State Government/Hamersley Iron project. This was followed in 1970 by development of Wickham, which was constructed by Cliffs Robe River Iron Ore in 1970 to provide accommodation for the Cape Lambert iron ore processing and shipment facility (Essential Environmental 2013a).

3.3.2.2 Current land use

Current land use throughout the Shire is in accordance with the current TPS No. 8, which allows for numerous types of residential, commercial, industrial and rural uses, guided by state and local land use planning policies. Future land use across the Shire will be guided in the first instance by the LPS, then through a revised TPS and individual townsite structure plans.

Pastoral leases in the Shire are predominantly restricted to south of North West Coastal Highway; however, Karratha and Mount Welcome pastoral leases encroach near the western extents of Wickham and Roebourne (Figure 17), which may limit future expansion of these towns. Other key land uses across the Shire include mining exploration, extraction, processing and export of iron ore, salt and natural gas via port operations at Dampier, Cape Lambert and proposed Anketell Point.

3.3.2.3 Buffer zones

A variety of industrial activities at Cape Lambert, Dampier, Karratha (including the Karratha Industrial Estate) and the Burrup Peninsula require implementation of buffer zones to mitigate potential impacts from air quality, noise and dust emissions on surrounding sensitive receptors. The size of buffer areas depends on the industry and emission type, as well as the level of potential impact, and is guided by State Planning Policy 4.1 State Industrial Buffer Policy. Buffer zones are recommended for individual industrial projects including waste disposal facilities and wastewater treatment plants in accordance with Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors No. 3: Separation Distances between Industrial and Sensitive Land Uses (EPA 2005). Ongoing planning and development of the Shire will need to take into consideration the location of any industrial buffer zones, which could limit the expansion of some land uses, such as residential and commercial.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 17: Pastoral leases

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.3.3 Infrastructure and servicing

The current extent of major infrastructure located throughout coastal areas of the Shire is presented in Figure 18. This includes built up areas, key transport networks (major/minor roads, tracks and railways), powerlines, airports, helipads and landing grounds.

Power supply for the Shire is currently provided by Horizon Power as part of their Northwest Interconnected System. The current capacity of the system is stretched and is recognised as insufficient to cater for the projected growth in the Pilbara region (Essential Environmental 2013a). This may be offset by additional power generation as a result of the Chevron Wheatstone LNG project.

Water and wastewater in Dampier and Wickham are provided by Rio Tinto utilities. Water Corporation provides both water and wastewater services to Karratha and Roebourne; however, Point Samson is unsewered, with only water provided by Water Corporation through the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Upgrades are currently occurring to the wastewater treatment plants in Karratha and the output will produce up to six million litres per day of high quality recycled water. Recycled water is proposed to be used to irrigate the Shire parklands and could also provide a fit-for-purpose source of non-drinking water via a reticulated network within the proposed Mulataga development (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Waste collections services are provided by the Shire in the townsites. The Shire operates the 7 Mile Waste Facility, which is located approximately 10 km from Karratha, and the Roebourne/Wickham Waste Transfer Station, which is located on the Roebourne-Point Samson Road (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Future plans for waste management within the Shire should consider the establishment of local or regional recycling facilities and the development of waste to energy plants (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 18: Infrastructure and servicing

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

3.3.4 Cultural heritage

3.3.4.1 Aboriginal communities

There are three Aboriginal communities in the Shire, including Cheeditha, which is based close to Roebourne, and Weymul and Mingullatharndo, which are more remote. Weymul Community exists on a freehold lot within the Mount Welcome pastoral lease and is managed by the Weymul Aboriginal Corporation, established in 1999 to represent the Ngarluma people who are the traditional owners of the Ngarluma region of the Pilbara (Essential Environmental 2013a). Mingullatharndo Community is located approximately 10 km east of Roebourne and 1 km south of North West Coastal Highway.

3.3.4.2 Native title

The Ngarluma/Yindjibarndi people are recognised as having native title rights over a significant portion of the Shire and the Jaburara Aboriginal language group are recognised as the original inhabitants of the Burrup Peninsula and Dampier Archipelago (Essential Environmental 2013a).

Native title is considered to be a land access limitation, rather than an environmental limitation on proposed land use. Nevertheless, any future development within the Shire will need to be cognisant of existing Native title rights over any lands proposed to be developed.

3.3.4.3 Aboriginal heritage sites

Over 2000 Aboriginal heritage sites have been identified in the Shire and are protected under the AH Act (Figure 19). Potential impacts to heritage values will need to be addressed for any future development in the Shire, which is usually undertaken at later planning stages, such as local structure planning.

3.3.5 European heritage

The Shire contains significant European heritage values, in particular the historic town of Cossack and many important heritage buildings and sites in Roebourne. These heritage values are documented in a municipal heritage register prepared by O’Brien Planning Consultants (1996) and maintained by the Shire. Future development within the Shire will need to be cognisant of the requirement of protecting and retaining these heritage values.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Figure 19: Cultural heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4 Findings and recommendations

Analysis of the existing environment provided in Section 3 has allowed identification of key environmental limiters on land use at each townsite considered for future development as part of the LPS. The following subsections provide a summary of these with regards to physical, biological and social factors. Where GIS data has been available, these factors have been mapped on an aerial image to provide a visual overview of the key development constraints at each townsite (refer to Appendix 2). Recommendations for management of environmental constraints has also been provided.

Key constraints identified as part of this evidential analysis represent environmental factors that could potentially have a significant influence on strategic planning processes within the Shire. Factors considered to present a minor influence on strategic planning have been shown as not being a constraint (i.e. N/A).

4.1 Dampier

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Dampier is provided in Table 7. A key constraints map for Dampier is provided in Figure 20, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Dampier.

Table 7 – Environmental limiters on land use: Dampier

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location Yes Coastline to the west restricts None. environment development Climate Yes Climate change projections 1) Address climate change issues may have negative effects on through ongoing planning and future development in the development of Dampier. area (e.g. increased occurrence and severity of tropical cyclones) Landform and Yes Ridge to the south and east None. topography restricts development Coastal Yes 100-year and 500-year ARI 1) Avoid future development processes events will inundate areas of within the 100-year ARI Dampier Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and soils No N/A N/A Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface No N/A N/A hydrology Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply alternative water supplies for the availability Shire.

2) Implement State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Salinity risk No N/A N/A Contaminated Yes Dampier Fuel Facility (Parker 1) Remediate contaminated site. sites Point Road) is a known contaminated site 2) Avoid development in the vicinity of the contaminated site. Biological Bioregional No N/A N/A environment context Terrestrial Yes Native vegetation of the 1) Investigate the vegetation and vegetation and Abydos Plain vegetation type flora significance of future flora occurs in the area development areas.

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Significant fauna habitats of 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat the Burrup Peninsula are in habitat significance of future the vicinity of Dampier development areas.

2) Avoid disturbance to native vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally Yes Burrup Peninsula 1) Avoid development in or near sensitive areas Conservation Reserve and environmentally sensitive areas. Murujuga National Park are in the vicinity of Dampier Marine Yes Dampier Archipelago Marine 1) Avoid development in gazetted environment Park is in the vicinity of marine parks. Dampier 2) Avoid residual impacts to protected marine waters, such as contamination from surrounding industrial areas. Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels 1) Investigate wildfire risk for occur in the vicinity of future development areas and Dampier ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may exceed ongoing planning and current townsite capacity development of Dampier. Land use No N/A N/A Infrastructure and No N/A N/A servicing Cultural heritage Yes Dampier and surrounds is 1) Investigate Aboriginal heritage situated within an Aboriginal significance of future heritage site. development areas.

2) Avoid disturbance to known Aboriginal heritage sites.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European No N/A N/A heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4.2 Karratha

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Karratha is provided in Table 8. A key constraints map for Karratha is provided in Figure 21, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Karratha.

Table 8 – Environmental limiters on land use: Karratha

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location Yes Coastline to the north restricts None. environment development Climate Yes Climate change projections may 1) Address climate change have negative effects on future issues through ongoing development in the area (e.g. planning and development of increased occurrence and Karratha. severity of tropical cyclones) Landform and Yes Hills to the south restrict None. topography development Coastal Yes 100-year and 500-year ARI 1) Avoid future development processes events will inundate areas of within the 100-year ARI Karratha Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and Yes There is a low to high 1) Investigate the ASS risk for soils probability of ASS occurrence, future development areas. especially in northern areas of Karratha towards the coast line 2) Avoid areas where ASS has been confirmed.

3) Manage any known or perceived ASS risk for future development areas. Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface No N/A N/A hydrology Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply availability alternative water supplies for the Shire.

2) Implement State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year. Salinity risk No N/A N/A Contaminated Yes BP Service Station and Road 1) Remediate contaminated sites Reserve (30 Balmoral Road), site. 1032/1033 Mardie Road and Road Reserve and 1932 2) Avoid development in the Coolawanyah Road (Karratha vicinity of the contaminated Industrial Estate) are all known site. contaminated sites

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Biological Bioregional No N/A N/A environment context Terrestrial Yes Native vegetation of the Abydos 1) Investigate the vegetation vegetation and Plain vegetation type occurs in and flora significance of future flora the area development areas.

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Local areas of native vegetation 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat and coastal mangrove areas to habitat significance of future the north may provide habitat development areas. for conservation significant fauna 2) Avoid disturbance to native vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally Yes Mangrove areas are located to 1) Avoid development in or sensitive areas the north of Karratha near environmentally sensitive areas. Marine Yes Cape Preston Marine 1) Avoid development in environment Management Area is in the gazetted marine parks. vicinity of Karratha 2) Avoid residual impacts to protected marine waters, such as contamination from surrounding industrial areas. Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels occur 1) Investigate wildfire risk for in the vicinity of Karratha future development areas and ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire. Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may exceed current ongoing planning and townsite capacity development of Karratha. Land use No N/A N/A Infrastructure No N/A N/A and servicing

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Cultural heritage Yes Karratha and surrounds is 1) Investigate Aboriginal situated within an Aboriginal heritage significance of future heritage site. development areas.

2) Avoid disturbance to known Aboriginal heritage sites.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European No N/A N/A heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4.3 Roebourne

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Roebourne is provided in Table 9. A key constraints map for Roebourne is provided in Figure 22, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Roebourne.

Table 9 – Environmental limiters on land use: Roebourne

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location No N/A N/A environment Climate Yes Climate change projections 1) Address climate change issues may have negative effects on through ongoing planning and future development in the development of Roebourne. area (e.g. increased occurrence and severity of tropical cyclones) Landform and Yes Hills to the west restrict None. topography development Coastal Yes 500-year ARI event is 1) Avoid future development processes expected to inundate eastern within the 100-year ARI areas of Roebourne Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and soils Yes There is a low probability of 1) Investigate the ASS risk for ASS occurrence to the east future development areas. in association with the Harding River and tributaries 2) Avoid areas where ASS has been confirmed.

3) Manage any known or perceived ASS risk for future development areas. Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface Yes The Harding River restricts None. hydrology development to the east Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply alternative water supplies for the availability Shire.

2) Implement State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year. The Roebourne PDWSA is 1) Assess any potential impacts located to the southeast on the Roebourne PDWSA from future development and manage these accordingly. Salinity risk No N/A N/A Contaminated Yes Lot 17 on Plan 205908 is a 1) Review restricted use category sites known contaminated site prior to development in this area.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Biological Bioregional No N/A N/A environment context Terrestrial Yes Native vegetation of the 1) Investigate the vegetation and vegetation and Abydos Plain vegetation type flora significance of future flora occurs in the area development areas.

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Local areas of native 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat vegetation may provide habitat significance of future habitat for conservation development areas. significant fauna 2) Avoid disturbance to native vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally Yes Priority 1 and Priority 3 1) Avoid development in or near sensitive areas Ecological Communities are environmentally sensitive areas located east and west of and associated buffer zones. Roebourne respectively Marine No N/A N/A environment Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels 1) Investigate wildfire risk for occur in the vicinity of future development areas and Roebourne ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire. Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may exceed ongoing planning and current townsite capacity development of Roebourne. Land use No N/A N/A Infrastructure and No N/A N/A servicing

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Cultural heritage Yes There are several Aboriginal 1) Investigate Aboriginal heritage heritage sites in the vicinity of significance of future Roebourne. development areas.

2) Avoid disturbance to known Aboriginal heritage sites.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European No N/A N/A heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4.4 Point Samson

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Point Samson is provided in Table 10. A key constraints map for Point Samson is provided in Figure 23, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Point Samson.

Table 10 – Environmental limiters on land use: Point Samson

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location Yes Coast line to the east and None. environment north restricts development Climate Yes Climate change projections 1) Address climate change issues may have negative effects on through ongoing planning and future development in the development of Point Samson. area (e.g. increased occurrence and severity of tropical cyclones) Landform and No N/A N/A topography Coastal Yes 100-year ARI event will 1) Avoid future development processes inundate areas of Point within the 100-year ARI Samson and surrounds Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and soils Yes There is a low to high 1) Investigate the ASS risk for probability of ASS occurrence future development areas. in this area 2) Avoid areas where ASS has been confirmed.

3) Manage any known or perceived ASS risk for future development areas. Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface No N/A N/A hydrology Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply alternative water supplies for the availability Shire.

2) Implement State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year. Salinity risk No N/A N/A Contaminated Yes Lot 65 on Plan 241547 is a 1) Remediate contaminated site. sites known contaminated site 2) Avoid development in the vicinity of the contaminated site. Biological Bioregional No N/A N/A environment context

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Terrestrial Yes Native vegetation of the 1) Investigate the vegetation and vegetation and Abydos Plain vegetation type flora significance of future flora occurs in the area development areas.

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Local areas of native 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat vegetation and coastal habitat significance of future mangrove areas to the south development areas. may provide habitat for conservation significant fauna 2) Avoid disturbance to native vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally Yes Mangrove areas are located 1) Avoid development in or near sensitive areas to the south of Point Samson environmentally sensitive areas. Marine Yes Cape Preston Marine 1) Avoid development in gazetted environment Management Area is in the marine parks. vicinity of Point Samson 2) Avoid residual impacts to protected marine waters, such as contamination from surrounding industrial areas. Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels 1) Investigate wildfire risk for occur in the vicinity of Point future development areas and Samson ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire. Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may exceed ongoing planning and current townsite capacity development of Point Samson. Land use No N/A N/A Infrastructure and Yes Point Samson is unsewered 1) Investigate the potential to servicing connect Point Samson to sewerage infrastructure prior to future development.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2) Avoid disturbance to known Aboriginal heritage sites.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European No N/A N/A heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4.5 Wickham

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Wickham is provided in Table 11. A key constraints map for Wickham is provided in Figure 24, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Wickham.

Table 11 – Environmental limiters on land use: Wickham

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location No N/A N/A environment Climate Yes Climate change projections may 1) Address climate change have negative effects on future issues through ongoing development in the area (e.g. planning and development of increased occurrence and severity Wickham. of tropical cyclones) Landform and Yes Hills to the southwest restrict None. topography development Coastal Yes The 500-year ARI event may 1) Avoid future development processes inundate areas of Wickham within the 100-year ARI Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and No N/A N/A soils Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface No N/A N/A hydrology Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply availability alternative water supplies for the Shire.

2) Implement State Agreement with Rio Tinto for scheme augmentation and provision of additional 10 GL/year. Salinity risk No N/A N/A Contaminated No N/A N/A sites Biological Bioregional No N/A N/A environment context

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Terrestrial Yes Native vegetation of the Abydos 1) Investigate the vegetation vegetation and Plain vegetation type occurs in the and flora significance of flora area future development areas.

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Local areas of native vegetation 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat may provide habitat for habitat significance of future conservation significant fauna development areas.

2) Avoid disturbance to native vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally No N/A N/A sensitive areas Marine No N/A N/A environment Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels occur in 1) Investigate wildfire risk for the vicinity of Wickham future development areas and ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire. Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may exceed current ongoing planning and townsite capacity development of Wickham. Land use Yes Mount Welcome pastoral lease is None. located to the west of Wickham, which will restrict development Infrastructure No N/A N/A and servicing

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Cultural heritage Yes There are several Aboriginal 1) Investigate Aboriginal heritage sites in the vicinity of heritage significance of future Wickham. Aboriginal heritage development areas. surveys have previously been conducted for a number of 2) Avoid disturbance to developments in the area known Aboriginal heritage including the motocross track sites. relocation and the pony club track realignment. 3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European No N/A N/A heritage

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

4.6 Cossack

A summary of environmental limiters on land use at Cossack is provided in Table 12. A key constraints map for Cossack is provided in Figure 25, outlining the critical environmental factors to be considered in strategic planning in an around Cossack.

Table 12 – Environmental limiters on land use: Cossack

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Physical Location Yes Coast line to the east None. environment restricts development Climate Yes Climate change projections 1) Address climate change issues may have negative effects through ongoing planning and on future development in the development of Cossack. area (e.g. increased occurrence and severity of tropical cyclones) Landform and No N/A N/A topography Coastal Yes The 100-year ARI event will 1) Avoid future development processes inundate areas of Cossack within the 100-year ARI Stormwater Flood Extent and 500-year ARI Storm Surge Extent. Geology and Yes There is a low to high 1) Investigate the ASS risk for soils probability of ASS future development areas. occurrence in this area 2) Avoid areas where ASS has been confirmed.

3) Manage any known or perceived ASS risk for future development areas. Hydrogeology No N/A N/A Surface Yes The Harding River 1) Investigate whether the hydrology discharges in the vicinity of Harding River discharge area will Cossack limit development of Cossack. Water supply Yes Future demand may exceed 1) Continue investigation into current water supply alternative water supplies for the availability Shire.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

2) Avoid clearing native vegetation for any future development.

3) If clearing of native vegetation is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Terrestrial fauna Yes Local areas of native 1) Investigate the fauna and and habitat vegetation and coastal habitat significance of future mangrove areas to the south development areas. may provide habitat for conservation significant 2) Avoid disturbance to native fauna vegetation and other known fauna habitat areas.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. Environmentally Yes Mangrove areas are located 1) Avoid development in or near sensitive areas to the south of Cossack environmentally sensitive areas. Marine Yes Cape Preston Marine 1) Avoid development in gazetted environment Management Area is in the marine parks. vicinity of Cossack 2) Avoid residual impacts to protected marine waters, such as contamination from surrounding industrial areas. Invasive species No N/A N/A Wildfire risk Yes Spinifex grassland fuels 1) Investigate wildfire risk for occur in the vicinity of future development areas and Cossack ensure that future development is cognisant of any perceived wildfire risk.

2) Where necessary, implement wildfire risk management measures to protect life, property and the environment from wildfire. Social Social context Yes Population and workload 1) Address issues as part of environment projections may cause ongoing planning and issues for ongoing development of Cossack. development Land use No N/A N/A Infrastructure and No N/A N/A servicing

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Environment Factor Constraint Description Recommendations Cultural heritage Yes There are several Aboriginal 1) Investigate Aboriginal heritage heritage sites, as well as the significance of future development Cossack Indigenous areas. Reserve located in the vicinity of Cossack. 2) Avoid disturbance to known Aboriginal heritage sites.

3) If disturbance is unavoidable, obtain necessary environmental approvals. European Yes Cossack has significant 1) Future development of heritage European heritage values Cossack will need to retain and possibly be consistent with the existing European heritage values of the townsite.

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

5 References

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Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

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Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

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Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Appendix 1 EPBC Act online database search results

Shire of Roebourne Local Planning Strategy Evidential Analysis Paper: Physical and Environmental Limiters on Land Use

Appendix 2 Key development constraints maps (Figures 20–25)