Central Eyre Iron Project Mining Lease Proposal

APPENDIX J ECOLOGICAL SURVEY

COPYRIGHT Copyright © IRD Mining Operations Pty Ltd and Iron Road Limited, 2015 All rights reserved This document and any related documentation is protected by copyright owned by IRD Mining Operations Pty Ltd and Iron Road Limited. The content of this document and any related documentation may only be copied and distributed for purposes of section 35A of the Mining Act, 1971 (SA) and otherwise with the prior written consent of IRD Mining Operations Pty Ltd and Iron Road Limited. DISCLAIMER A declaration has been made on behalf of IRD Mining Operations Pty Ltd by its Managing Director that he has taken reasonable steps to review the information contained in this document and to ensure its accuracy as at 5 November 2015. Subject to that declaration: (a) in writing this document, Iron Road Limited has relied on information provided by specialist consultants, government agencies, and other third parties. Iron Road Limited has reviewed all information to the best of its ability but does not take responsibility for the accuracy or completeness; and (b) this document has been prepared for information purposes only and, to the full extent permitted by law, Iron Road Limited, in respect of all persons other than the relevant government departments, makes no representation and gives no warranty or undertaking, express or implied, in respect to the information contained herein, and does not accept responsibility and is not liable for any loss or liability whatsoever arising as a result of any person acting or refraining from acting on any information contained within it..

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REPORT

CENTRAL EYRE IRON PROJECT: MINE SITE ECOLOGICAL SURVEY

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Revision Issue Date Revision Description Document Author Checked By Authorised By A 21/02/2012 Final Draft K Fels N Bull 0 13/05/2014 Approved K Fels / Z Bull N Bull Lachlan Wilkinson 1 31/07/2014 Approved – minor Z Bull N Bull amendment to section 6.

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Contents

List of Figures ...... 4 List of Tables ...... 4 List of Plates ...... 4 Executive summary ...... 5 1 Introduction ...... 8 1.1 Iron Road deposits ...... 8 1.2 Iron Road Limited and EL3699/ EL4849...... 8 1.3 Waramboo CEIP infrastructure requirements...... 8 1.4 Study area ...... 9 1.4.1 Bioregion ...... 9 1.4.2 Historical landuse ...... 11 1.4.3 Landscape, geology and soils ...... 11 1.4.4 Watercourses and wetlands ...... 11 1.4.5 Climate ...... 11 1.5 Study objectives...... 12 2 Legislation ...... 13 2.1 Commonwealth legislation ...... 13 2.2 Commonwealth policy ...... 14 2.3 South Australian Legislation ...... 14 2.4 South Australian policy ...... 15 3 Methodology ...... 16 3.1 Ecological desktop review ...... 16 3.2 Flora and fauna field survey ...... 17 3.3 Survey site selection ...... 18 3.3.1 Flora survey and landscape description ...... 21 3.3.2 Fauna survey ...... 21 3.3.3 Evaluation of conservation significance ...... 25 4 Results of desktop flora and fauna study ...... 26 4.1 Eyre Yorke Block bioregion ...... 26 4.1.1 Eyre Mallee (EYB5) sub-region ...... 26 4.2 Biodiversity and conservation context ...... 26 4.3 Regional Vegetation Association ...... 27 4.4 Listed flora and ecological communities ...... 27 4.5 Weeds ...... 28

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4.6 Listed fauna ...... 31 5 Results of field survey ...... 35 5.1 Weather conditions ...... 35 5.2 Vegetation communities ...... 35 5.3 Survey site vegetation descriptions ...... 38 5.3.1 Species richness ...... 41 5.4 Vegetation condition assessment ...... 41 5.4.1 Disturbance levels ...... 44 5.4.2 Weeds ...... 45 5.4.3 Environmental offset ratios ...... 47 5.5 Fauna survey ...... 50 5.5.1 Fauna ...... 50 5.5.2 Fauna diversity across broad habitat types ...... 58 5.5.3 Fauna species richness ...... 59 6 Conservation significance ...... 61 6.1 Significant species summary...... 61 6.1.1 Species with low likelihood of occurrence ...... 61 6.1.2 Species possibly present ...... 64 6.1.3 Significant flora and fauna identified during survey in study area ...... 68 7 Mine site legislation and approvals ...... 71 7.1 Environment ...... 71 7.1.1 EPBC Referral Determination ...... 71 7.1.2 Native Vegetation Act and SEB ...... 71 7.1.3 Natural Resources Management Act ...... 72 7.1.4 Environment Protection Act ...... 72 8 Summary and conclusion ...... 73 9 References ...... 75 Appendix A EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool ...... 79 Appendix B Site Photos ...... 88 Appendix C Flora of the study area ...... 96 Appendix D Fauna of the study area ...... 109

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List of Figures Figure 1-1 CEIP Mineral Exploration Licence and Proposed Mine Lease Site Map ...... 10 Figure 1-2 Climate Summary for study area ...... 12 Figure 3-1 CEIP flora and fauna survey sites...... 20 Figure 5-1 Cumulative number of bird species recorded over survey ...... 55 Figure 5-2 Cumulative number of reptile species recorded over survey ...... 56 Figure 5-3 Cumulative number of mammal species recorded over survey ...... 58 Figure 5-4 Cumulative fauna by site ...... 59

List of Tables Table 3-1 Broad survey components of the 2011 flora and fauna survey, CEIP ...... 17 Table 3-2 Field survey site locations ...... 19 Table 3-3 Total trapping effort ...... 24 Table 4-1 Conservation significant flora potentially present (EPBC PMST) within the study area3 ...... 27 Table 4-2 Conservation significant flora previously recorded (BDBSA) within 5 km of the ML ...... 28 Table 4-3 Conservation significant flora previously recorded (BDBSA) within EL and surrounds...... 28 Table 4-4 Invasive flora flagged as potentially present (EPBC) within the study area ...... 28 Table 4-5 Weeds previously recorded within 5 km of the proposed ML ...... 30 Table 4-6 Conservation significant fauna potentially present (EPBC PMST3) within study area ...... 32 Table 4-7 Conservation significant fauna previously recorded within study area (EL, ML 5km buffer) ...... 33 Table 4-8 Pest fauna flagged as potentially present (EPBC) within the study area ...... 34 Table 5-1 Field survey weather (Kyancutta Station 18044) ...... 35 Table 5-2 Vegetation communities and types of the mine site study area ...... 36 Table 5-3 Site specific vegetation associations of the mine site study area ...... 37 Table 5-4 Summary of weed presence (field results and historical records) ...... 46 Table 5-5 Initial offset ratios for survey sites ...... 48 Table 5-6 Birds recorded by site ...... 52 Table 5-7 Reptiles observed by site ...... 55 Table 5-8 Mammals observed by site ...... 57 Table 5-9 Species diversity by site ...... 58 Table 6-1 Likelihood of Occurrence – EPBC / NPW listed flora species considered unlikely to occur ...... 62 Table 6-2 Likelihood of Occurrence – EPBC / NPW listed fauna species considered unlikely to occur ...... 63

List of Plates Plate 5-1 Habitat condition variation within native vegetation patches of the study area (site 1 & 4) ...... 43 Plate 5-2 Habitat condition variation within native vegetation patches of the study area (site 2,3 & 5) ...... 44 (See Appendix B for additional plates).

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Executive summary Sinclair Knight Merz (now Jacobs) was engaged by Iron Road Limited (IRD) to undertake an investigation of ecological values at the proposed Central Eyre Iron Project (CEIP) site, near Warramboo on the central Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. This investigation will inform IRD of any future legislative obligations that will need to be fulfilled in order to obtain approval for the proposed development, and provide information regarding management measures which will need to be implemented.

A desktop analysis was undertaken to determine the potential presence of matters of conservation significance within the study area, as listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPW Act). A flora and fauna survey was undertaken between 10 and 14 October 2011 to confirm the matters raised by the desktop analysis and to provide a targeted assessment of the proposed development site. The baseline survey established a ‘snapshot’ of the flora and fauna present across the common habitat types of the study area. Desktop and field results were then used to assess likelihood of occurrence and potential impacts for 28 species of conservation significance.

For the purposes of this baseline assessment, the ‘study area’ is defined as the proposed mining lease (ML) and surrounds (Figure 1-1). Field studies targeted remnant vegetation patches within the proposed ML area to maximise potential of identifying species and ecological values at the site. This overall assessment provides Iron Road with a broad assessment which retains relevance despite any possible future changes in the proposed ML area.

Context of the Central Eyre Peninsula The project is located within the Eyre Mallee subregion of the Eyre Yorke Block bioregion. The Eyre Mallee subregion has the highest biodiversity within the EYB bioregion with 1,212 recorded plant species (6 endemic), 177 bird species, 82 reptile species and 23 species of mammals (DEH 2002). Habitat fragmentation and degradation are key threatening processes for native flora and fauna in the bioregion as a result of the significant clearance of native vegetation for agriculture and grazing. Feral animals including rabbits, foxes, cats, goats and horses as well as introduced stock present substantial threats to native plant and animal species through grazing, competition and predation. Competition from aggressive exotic weed species presents a further threat to native vegetation communities and habitat values.

Environment Typical of the district, a large proportion of the study area has been cleared for agriculture, and remnant vegetation is restricted to scattered and isolated scrub blocks of varying size on farmland and as roadside vegetation. The proposed mining lease covers an area of approximately 85 km2 of which approximately 12.4% is mapped as native vegetation (Native Vegetation Layer, DEH 2004). The remaining 87.6% of the study area is predominantly cleared agricultural land dominated by exotic species. Larger areas of native vegetation are found on the northern portion of the study area including a group of larger scrub blocks which comprise the Heritage Agreement 869 (Figure 3-1).

Four vegetation types were identified during the flora survey of the study area, namely:

• Red Mallee (Eucalytpus oleosa)/Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Narrow-leaved Mallee (E. leptophylla) low open woodland on calcareous sandy plains and low dune flanks • Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata)/Red Mallee (E. socialis)/Gilga (E. brachycalyx) low open woodland on the deeper sands of dune crests • Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open woodland on sandy calcareous plains

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• Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) low open woodland with Brown-head Samphire (Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya) and Grey Samphire (T. halosarcia ssp. halosarcia) open low shrubland on saline depressions or small lakes.

These four vegetation types broadly fall within two representative vegetation communities described by Milne et al. (2008). These two vegetation communities are EP 5 “Mallee with open to mid-dense sclerophyll shrub understorey on inland dunes and sandy-loams”; and EP 8 “Mallee and low woodlands with an open sclerophyll shrub and chenopod understorey on calcareous loams”. For both of these broad communities where more than 25 weeds are present the condition of the vegetation is considered to be in poor or very poor condition (Milne et al. 2008).

The vegetation condition across the study area is heavily influenced by significant clearance and agricultural practices immediately adjacent to, and often completely surrounding, each patch of native vegetation. The vegetation condition in general varied considerably with size of the remnant patch, and there were large areas devoid of vegetation and or supporting salt affected vegetation where the saline groundwater table was elevated. Where present, most degradation was observed within the understorey strata at each site, with herbaceous and grassy weeds comprising the majority of introduced species found. This is commensurate with poorer condition Mallee on sand dunes and Mallee and low woodland communities described for the Eyre Peninsula by Milne et al. (2008). Vegetation observed throughout the study area was mature with little evidence of active recruitment.

Vegetation groups identified during the surveys are common throughout the central Eyre Peninsula and condition of vegetation was moderate to poor. Mining within the proposed ML is considered unlikely to have a significant impact on the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora and vegetation at species and ecosystem level.

Diversity and Abundance of Species A range of standard SA Biological Survey methodologies were employed including Elliot, pitfall and cage trapping, 30 minute bird surveys, active reptile searches, opportunistic sightings, ANABAT sound recording for bats, spotlighting for nocturnal species, and call play back for birds. A total of 77 vertebrate species, and 145 plant species were identified within the study area from the 5 flora and fauna survey sites, 10 flora only survey (roadside) sites and from opportunistic observations. These totals included 7 introduced fauna and 27 weed species. Fauna (and flora) sites were selected to represent a range of habitat types in the best possible condition to maximise possible return for effort (biodiversity), whilst noting opportunistic fauna sightings across more degraded and exotic habitats. Fauna species diversity was considered low relative to the condition of the habitat fragments encountered, most likely due to a range of factors including habitat fragmentation and isolation, direct disturbance, saline groundwater impacts, size and shape of patches, age and complexity, and distance from larger, better quality conservation parks.

Mammal and bird species richness was around what would be expected for an agriculturally dominated landscape interspersed with only a small proportion of fragmented native regrowth (Doherty 1998, Menkhorst and Bennett 1990) and a few remnant stands. Most bird groups were represented, although some such as the raptors (three species) and robins (one species) were poorly represented. Bat species richness was relatively low for what would usually be expected for Mallee or grassy woodland habitat, with the notable absence of three common groups (Nyctophilus, Mormopterus and Tadarida). Dunnarts were a notable mammal absence, and would usually be anticipated particularly with areas of Spinifex and sandy dune crests found in the region. Reptile species richness was low compared to what would normally be expected for this habitat type, with notable absences of smaller reptiles such as Sliders (Lerista), Menetia greyii and Hemiergis spp., and also larger

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species such as the Sand Goanna (Varanus gouldii). Reptile richness is usually high for mallee habitat types particularly where there is considerable leaf and bark litter build-up and a reasonable shrub storey or ground cover (DEH 2002, Moseby and Read 2001).

Species, Communities and Other Matters of Significance Six (6) species of conservation significance under state (National Parks and Wildlife Act, NPW Act) and or national (Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, EPBC Act) legislation were recorded in the study area, including one plant and five birds. One bird holds significance under the EPBC Act, the Rainbow Bee-eater. The remaining five species, including one plant and four birds have ratings under the NPW Act; Large-fruited Crassula, Gilbert’s Whistler, Restless Flycatcher, Slender-billed Thornbill and White-winged Chough). A further 21 species of conservation significance were identified by the desktop assessment as having the possibility of occurring on site. A total of 28 species of conservation significance have thus been considered by this report.

Of a possible 28 species of conservation significance, the likelihood assessment indicated 12 are considered unlikely to occur in the study area and 10 have the possibility of being present. Significant impacts to all possible species of conservation significance are not expected, however it is important to note that the field survey undertaken to produce this report did not constitute a targeted species search for listed species, with the exception of Malleefowl. A substantial amount of active searching was undertaken for Malleefowl or evidence of presence (e.g. active, dis-used, or abandoned mounds) in habitat considered to be suitable for Malleefowl across the field study area (original proposed ML). No evidence of Malleefowl was found, and no vegetation patches appeared to support the level of litter cover required to support foraging and nest building of Malleefowl. Malleefowl are considered unlikely to be present within the study area.

There were no other matters of national environmental significance (MNES) identified as relevant to the study area (i.e. commonwealth lands or marine areas, threatened communities, wetlands of international significance).

This study established a baseline of flora and fauna diversity and condition at the Warramboo CEIP project site but represents one snapshot in time. . A comprehensive baseline provides a solid basis on which to frame future management and rehabilitation, and likewise against which to dismiss or confirm the influence of any particular activity on a particular species, community or environment.

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1 Introduction Sinclair Knight Merz (now Jacobs) was engaged by Iron Road Limited (IRD) to undertake an investigation of ecological values at the proposed Central Eyre Iron Project (CEIP) near Warramboo on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The mine will be developed within the proposed mining lease, which falls within Mineral Exploration Lease EL4849 (Refer Figure 1-1). This report forms part of a suite of environmental impact and baseline studies associated with a proposal to develop the site into a mining operation. The outcomes of this and other studies will characterise the site, and provide the necessary information to facilitate the next steps including impact assessment, approvals under state and federal legislation, design, construction, operation and ultimately post closure rehabilitation.

The desktop component of this report summarises information on the existing environment of the project area derived from State (e.g. Biological Database of South Australia) and Commonwealth (e.g. Protected Matters Database) databases as well as general distribution texts and published information from previous ecological investigations in the region. This report also presents the outcomes of a detailed in-field flora and fauna survey of the site, which has further refined the desktop dataset and improved knowledge and understanding of the local environment.

1.1 Iron Road deposits The proposed Warramboo CEIP project is located centrally on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, approximately 25km to the south east of Wudinna and south of the Eyre Highway (Figure 1-1). The CEIP is a collection of three iron deposits, namely Warramboo, Kopi and Hambidge.

The focus of this report is the primary Warramboo project which consists of the Murphy South and Boo-Loo deposits along with the proposed mining lease area required to develop the site. The Warramboo project is located within the larger Mineral Exploration Lease 4849.

1.2 Iron Road Limited and EL3699/ EL4849 IRD is a South Australian focused resource company who target exploration, evaluation and development of iron ore projects in South Australia (SA) and Western Australia (WA). IRD acquired EL3699 from Adelaide Resources Limited in June 2008. Previous work undertaken by Adelaide Resources included the drilling of six Reverse Circulation (RC) drill holes during 2000 and performing associated metallurgical test work on samples collected. IRD have subsequently undertaken a staged drilling program within the EL to further define the resource.

Note: since the time of this study the EL3699 expired and was updated to EL4849.

1.3 Waramboo CEIP infrastructure requirements The location of the Warramboo CEIP is favourable in terms of proximity to power and transport infrastructure, and the geological and metallurgical results are considered outstanding. Site infrastructure requirements are detailed by the pre-feasibility study (Iron Road Limited 2011b), and will include facilities that support:

• Open pit excavation including crushing, grinding and milling facilities • Processing plant including metallurgical facilities, product as concentrate or granulised pellet, tailings handling and retention • Mine site infrastructure, including temporary and permanent camps, workshops, warehouses, airstrip, fire, security and emergency services • Other associated infrastructure including rail, port facility, loading and unloading facilities, electrical power, water intake and delivery pipeline.

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1.4 Study area For the purposes of this baseline assessment the ‘study area’ was defined as the proposed mining lease boundary and immediate surrounds (5 km buffer), with reference also made to the environment of the larger Mineral Exploration Licence (EL) 3699 (now EL 4849) (Figure 1-1). The proposed mining lease boundary has been revised a number of times during project development and is currently approximately 85 km2 compared with 111 km2 in 2011. An intensive onground survey concentrated on a range of native habitat types found within the proposed ML.

The proposed project area lies entirely within the Wudinna District Council, but the mineral Exploration Licence area for the broader CEIP covers an area of 663 km2 and crosses both the Wudinna and Elliston District Councils. The location of the CEIP is indicated on Figure 1-1, along with the field ‘study area’ based on the proposed mining lease and the exploration licence areas held by IRD.

The location of the CEIP is favourable in terms of proximity to power and transport infrastructure, and the geological and metallurgical results are considered outstanding. IRD have narrowed the options available for product transport to a preference for new, purpose built rail and port facilities delivering ore concentrate to the east coast of the Eyre Peninsula near Cape Hardy. Other major infrastructure required to support the mine include a water pipeline from a borefield located along the rail corridor, and transmission line power network to link the mine to the South Australian network.

The desktop and baseline ecological assessments for the additional infrastructure developments associated with the project are the subject of further studies undertaken by SKM (2012a, 2012b).

1.4.1 Bioregion The study area is located within the Eyre Yorke Block (EYB) bioregion as described by the Interim Bio- regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) of Thackway and Cresswell (1995).

Due to the diverse landscapes and habitats found within the bioregion, sub-regions are used for the purposes of describing biodiversity issues. Within the EYB bioregion, there are three sub-regions located within the Eyre Peninsula (Eyre Hills, Talia and Eyre Mallee). The Project site is located within the Eyre Mallee subregion (see 4.2.1 for further detail).

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Figure 1-1 CEIP Mineral Exploration Licence and Proposed Mine Lease Site Map

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1.4.2 Historical landuse The Department for Environment and Heritage estimated that in 2002, 43% of the original native vegetation remained on the Eyre Peninsula and that much of this was concentrated in areas less suited to agriculture (DEH 2002). Consistent with the history of the broader bioregion, the Mallee vegetation that previously dominated the Eyre Mallee subregion (in which the study area is located) has been significantly cleared for agriculture including cereal cultivation and livestock grazing (DEH 2002). The proposed mining lease covers an area of approximately 85 km2 of which 12.4 % is mapped as native vegetation (Native Vegetation Layer, DEH 2004). A review of the native vegetation layer across the study area indicates a high proportion of clearance with 87.6 % (74.5 km2 of a total 85 km2) being cleared or supporting exotic vegetation (DENR 2004). However, the Eyre Mallee sub-region has a significantly higher proportion of its native vegetation protected within reserves compared to other subregions of the Eyre Peninsula (DEH 2002).

Major land cover uses within the Eyre Mallee subregion are described by DEH (2002) to include: • Grazing – native pastures (37%) • Conservation (14%) • Native forest outside public land (12.8%) • Vacant Crown land and Crown Reserves (0.02%).

1.4.3 Landscape, geology and soils The Eyre Yorke Block (EYB) bioregion is characterised by Archaean basement rocks and Proterozoic sandstones overlain by undulating to occasionally hilly calcarenite and calcrete plains and areas of aeolian quartz sands, with Mallee woodlands, shrublands and heaths on calcareous earths, duplex soils and calcareous to shallow sands.

The Eyre Mallee subregion consists of undulating planes with an extensive cover of dunes and sand sheets. The shallow calcareous earths or deeper duplex soils of the plains support a Mallee association of Eucalyptus socialis and E. gracilis, with E. incrassata/Melaleuca uncinata Mallee occurring on the dune sands (DEH 2002).

1.4.4 Watercourses and wetlands There are no permanent watercourses in the study area. A series of smaller salt lakes (depressions where waters from the surrounding catchment pool) are found in the north of the EL, the largest of which form part of the Lake Warramboo complex. These lakes are just north of the current proposed mining lease but within the larger study area. Survey Site 5 (discussed further below) was located within a smaller salt lake considered to be characteristic of the salt lakes in the EL.

1.4.5 Climate The climate of the study area is arid with mean annual rainfall of approximately 287mm (Northern end) over the past 80 years (sourced from nearest meteorological stations at Kyancutta, Bureau of Meteorology, 2013). Rainfall is typically winter dominant with relatively dry summer months which are characterised by warm to hot temperatures, with mean summer monthly maximums in the low 30s. The Eyre Mallee subregion is climatically more arid than the other two subregions of the Eyre Peninsula (i.e. Eyre Hills and Talia). Climatic conditions at the site indicate that from an ecological perspective, a spring time flora and fauna survey would likely yield the greatest diversity as plants respond to increased rainfall and warming ground conditions during this time, and fauna are consequently likely to time their breeding and peak activity with this period. Monthly average rainfall and temperatures recorded at Kyancutta (approximately 12.5km from Warramboo) between 1930 and 2013 are provided in Figure 1-2.

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Figure 1-2 Climate Summary for study area

35 50 44 43.6 43.5 45 30 38 36.5 40

25 35 Rainfall (mm) Rainfall 28.9 30 20 24.9 22.5 23.8 20.9 25 15 18.8 20

14.9 Temperature (C) Temperature 10 15 10 5 5 0 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Mean Rainfall (mm) Mean maximum Temparature (°C) Mean minimum Temparature (°C)

Source: Kyancutta, BOM accessed 16/12/2013

1.5 Study objectives A robust environment and heritage baseline is critical for any proposed mine site development as it seeks to:

• Identify sensitive issues and sites that are implicated by state and federal legislation, and that need to be factored into mine site design • Provide data that can be used to predict potential effects of the proposed development • Offer assistance with a judgement on the ‘significance’ of potential effects • Contribute to safety in design and other risk elimination or mitigation measures, and shape environmental management planning, and rehabilitation strategies and outcomes • Establish a background against which the potential impacts of the proposed mine, plant and associated infrastructure (e.g. rail, pipeline) can be measured, and against which future operational and closure data can be compared.

The key objectives of this report are to identify any ecological and heritage values within the project area as baseline condition data, determine likely and potential impacts to these values, provide information to assist in the mitigation of potential environmental impacts, inform regulatory authorities, and to determine the need for any additional approvals (e.g. formal ‘referral’ under Commonwealth legislation, approval for clearance of native vegetation).

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2 Legislation This section presents key legislation relevant to ecological and heritage values and therefore the successful approval for development of the IRD CEIP deposit into an operational mine.

2.1 Commonwealth legislation Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) prescribes the Commonwealth’s role in environmental assessment, biodiversity conservation and the management of protected areas. Under the environmental provisions of the EPBC Act, actions that are likely to have a ‘significant impact’ on a matter of National Environmental Significance are identified as ‘controlled actions’ and cannot be undertaken without referral to the Department of the Environment for consideration and approval under the EPBC Act.

The nine matters of national environmental significance identified in the EPBC Act are:

• World heritage properties • National heritage places • Wetlands of international importance (listed under the Ramsar Convention) • Threatened species and ecological communities • Migratory species as listed under international agreements • Commonwealth marine areas • The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park • Nuclear actions (including uranium mining) • A water resource, in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development

The EPBC Act is the applicable Commonwealth environmental legislation governing IRD’s activities at the CEIP project and IRD are required to comply with the EPBC Act to ensure protection of the environment and heritage values within its tenements.

The matters of National Environmental Significance that are considered of particular relevance to this terrestrial flora and fauna study are:

• Listed threatened species and ecological communities • Listed migratory species

The EPBC Act lists threatened fauna species under the following categories; extinct in the wild, critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable. Furthermore, the EPBC Act provides protection for Migratory species, including those listed under International Agreements such as the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA), the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA), the Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA) or the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (i.e. the Bonn Convention).

In addition to the above listings, some species are listed as ‘Marine’ under the EPBC Act in recognition of the EPBC Act’s role in the protection of Commonwealth waters. Listed-Marine species occur commonly within Australian Commonwealth Marine Areas. The Commonwealth marine area stretches from 3 to 200 nautical miles from the coast and is therefore not considered relevant to the terrestrial nature of the proposed mine site.

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2.2 Commonwealth policy The Commonwealth government is also directed by the following policies and strategies relevant to native habitats, communities and species:

• Convention on Biological Diversity and The National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia’s Biological Diversity • National Strategy for the Conservation of Australian Species and Communities Threatened with Extinction • National Principles and Guidelines for Rangeland Management, the draft National Strategy for Rangeland Management and the National Land and Water Resources Audit on Rangelands

2.3 South Australian Legislation National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPW Act) allows for the protection of habitat and wildlife through the establishment of parks and reserves (both on land and in State waters) and provides for the use of wildlife through a system of permits allowing certain actions, i.e. keeping, selling, trading, harvesting, farming, hunting and the destruction of native species.

The NPW Act assigns species to state conservation categories; Endangered (Schedule 7), Vulnerable (Schedule 8), and Rare (Schedule 9).

Native Vegetation Act 1991 The Native Vegetation Act 1991 outlines incentives and assistance to land owners relative to the enhancement of native vegetation and acts to control the clearance of native vegetation. The broad objectives of this Act relevant to Iron Road’s proposed development of the CEIP mine near Warramboo and associated infrastructure include: The conservation, protection and enhancement of the native vegetation of the State and, in particular, remnant native vegetation, in order to prevent further:

• Reduction of biological diversity and degradation of the land and its soil • Loss of quantity and quality of native vegetation in the State • Loss of critical habitat • The provision of incentives and assistance to landowners to encourage the commonly held desire of landowners to preserve, enhance and properly manage the native vegetation on their land • The limitation of the clearance of native vegetation to clearance in particular including circumstances in which the clearance will facilitate the management of other native vegetation or will facilitate the sustainable use of land for primary production • The encouragement of research into the preservation, enhancement and management of native vegetation • The encouragement of the re-establishment of native vegetation in those parts of the State where native vegetation has been cleared or degraded

The Native Vegetation Act further sets out the ‘principles of clearance,’ a set of criteria against which vegetation clearance applications are intended to be assessed. Clearance if permitted will be subject to a set of conditions and a requirement for significant environmental benefit (SEB) to be made to counter the loss of habitat. The intent of SEB is not only to replace the immediate environmental values lost through clearance, but also to achieve a net gain that contributes to improving the condition of the environment and biodiversity

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of the region. SEB may be made through on ground management and restoration of native habitats as guided by an approved vegetation management plan or by direct monetary contribution into the Native Vegetation Fund (NVF).

Natural Resources Management Act 2004 The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 is to assist in the achievement of ecologically sustainable development in the State by establishing an integrated scheme to promote the use and management of natural resources that recognises and protects the intrinsic values of natural resources. The Act combines critical elements of the now repealed Animal and Plant Control (Agricultural Protection and Other Purposes) Act 1986, the Soil Conservation and Land Care Act 1989 and the Water Resources Act 1997.

Environment Protection Act 1993 The Environment Protection Act 1993 provides for the protection of the environment and defines the Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) functions and powers. The Act promotes ecologically sustainable development and the use of precautionary principles to minimise environmental harm. It requires polluters to bear an appropriate share of the costs and responsibilities of protecting the environment from their activities.

Mining Act 1971 The Mining Act 1971 and Mining Regulations 2011 provide the framework for the approval and regulation of all mining operations in South Australia. During the transition period where exploration activities are being undertaken, the Act specifies that works are to be governed by an approved Declaration of Environmental Factors (DEF) or an Exploration Work Approval (EWA). The Act then requires the mining operator to submit and gain approval for a Program for Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation (PEPR) before further mining work is undertaken. A PEPR must set out:

• Mining operations • Environmental outcomes • Criteria to measure and track environmental outcomes • Ability of miner to achieve the environmental outcomes • Addition information required by licence conditions or by the mining regulations.

The Mining Act also recognises land ownership, and requires that a notice of entry be served to the owner of the land (including native title claimants) prior to works being undertaken.

2.4 South Australian policy The SA government is guided by additional policy and strategy regarding the conservation of native habitats, communities and species through the implementation of the following document:

• No Species Loss: A Nature Conservation Strategy for South Australia 2007-2017 (DEH 2007)

This will be a key policy for protection of biodiversity in the State and is applicable to the project.

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3 Methodology

3.1 Ecological desktop review A desktop review of literature and databases was completed to determine the suite of ecological communities and species which may be present in the Study Area. The desktop review involved evaluation of:

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act Protected Matters database – modelled distributions of Commonwealth listed threatened species, habitat, vegetation communities and any other matters covered by Commonwealth Environmental and Heritage legislation • Biological Database of South Australia (BDBSA) flora and fauna records – records are provided to the SA Government (Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, DEWNR ) as part of permit requirements to undertake survey work and include data from the following sources: • South Australian Herbarium • Birds Australia • South Australian Museum • General distribution texts • Information published by the South Australian and Commonwealth Governments, including the online database of Environment Australia (EPBC Protected Matters Database, managed by Department of the Environment) • Information available from relevant local authorities • Previously published ecological investigations from the region (e.g. Biodiversity Plan for Eyre Peninsula, DEH 2002; 23 Threatened Flora of the EP, Pobke, 2007; EP Biological Survey, Brandle 2010, EP Coastal Action Plan, Caton et al. 2011).

BDBSA records were initially assessed for the EL boundary area in which the proposed mining lease is located. This expanded area ensures a greater spread of fauna and flora survey records across comparative landscapes to the area of interest, and provides a greater dataset for analysis in a region where there is a paucity of records. It also precludes records from Pinkawillinie Conservation Park, and Hambidge Conservation Park, both located approximately 20 km from the proposed ML. The inclusion of data from these areas would skew the results and provide an unrealistic indication of species potentially present in the study area since habitat in those areas is not representative of habitat at the proposed ML. In late 2013 the BDBSA data was reassessed to confirm recent records were captured using the current proposed ML boundary with a buffer of 5 km as a search area. The data provided includes flora and fauna records, including threatened flora and fauna and ecological communities.

The EPBC Protected Matters search covered the study area and a buffer of 5 kilometres from the boundary of the proposed ML. The EPBC Act Protected Matters Database is maintained by the Australian Government’s Department of the Environment. This database includes mapped locations of World Heritage properties, and Ramsar listed wetlands, as well as modelled distributions of threatened, migratory and marine species, threatened ecological communities and protected areas.

A search of protected fauna and flora species that may occur within the project area was conducted using the EPBC Act Protected Matters online search tool. These searches use information such as current and historical species distributions, habitat requirements, migratory paths, and previous records to determine which protected species may occur within the area of interest. The results from such searches are not necessarily based upon actual records and are therefore indicative only and should not take the place of on-ground investigations in terms of identifying the actual faunal composition of a site. The search was used to identify

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migratory species that may be found on the site, and terrestrial and non-migratory species that may be found within the area. The conservation significance of flora, fauna and habitats was assessed with reference to:

• Species classified as threatened nationally in accordance with the EPBC Act • Species classified as migratory and protected under the EPBC Act by bilateral agreements: the Japan- Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA); the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA); and the Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA)

3.2 Flora and fauna field survey Field surveys involved detailed fauna surveys, habitat and landform descriptions, detailed survey of vegetation monitoring plots, and land impact assessments. Table 3-1 below outlines broad survey methodologies employed to collect ecological information for the sites established within the project area. Broadly, methodologies followed vegetation and vertebrate guidelines developed for the Biological Survey of South Australian (Heard and Channon 1997, Owens 2000). Further details regarding methodologies for each of the survey components are provided below.

Table 3-1 Broad survey components of the 2011 flora and fauna survey, CEIP

Component Target Establish and survey approx. 100 m square plot Vegetation community Physical and Landscape description Soils, biological crust, underlying geology / topography – overall habitat Nights and day trapping (Pitfall trapline, Elliott traps, cage traps) Terrestrial mammals and reptiles Nocturnal spotlighting and ‘eyeshine’ searches Nocturnal mammals, birds and reptiles (geckos) Call playback Targeted species including nocturnal birds, limited mammals. Anabat recording Bats Diurnal active and opportunistic reptile search / capture Reptiles Diurnal active and opportunistic scat and track searches Mammals, birds, reptiles Morning and afternoon bird surveys (audio/visual) Birds

3.2.1 Permitting Undertaking research and handling/trapping of animals in South Australia can only legally be undertaken with relevant permits and licences in place. Relevant permits and licences were obtained prior to field survey commencement. All works were undertaken in accordance with permit and licence conditions. These include:

• Permit to Undertake Scientific Research – Warramboo, Eyre Peninsula: Flora and fauna survey. Permit Number: U25967-1. • Wildlife Ethics Approval – Iron Road Warramboo, Eyre Peninsula: Baseline Fauna and Flora. Application Number 29/2011. • Permit to Undertake Scientific Research – State-wide Vegetation Surveys. Permit Number: U25967-1. • Licence for teaching, research or experimentation involving animals (required under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1985). Licence Number: 228. • Licence to ‘Possess and Administer an S4 Drug’, for possession and use of a controlled substance (required under the Controlled Substances Act, 1984). Licence Number: 2011-75049.

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A condition of Scientific Research Permits is that ‘best practice’ for biological survey work is undertaken, including vouchering of specimens of interest for the South Australian Museum (SAM). This condition is included on permits as a means of maximising value obtained from survey work across the State, to enable taxonomic specialists the chance to verify field identification, and to encourage survey records to be included in the Biological Database of South Australia for broader knowledge. As such, the project team liaised with the SAM prior to undertaking the survey to ascertain whether the Museum had particular interest in the region being surveyed, and whether the data was of particular interest to the Biological Database of South Australia. In this case, the curator of mammals at SAM requested vouchering of one of every mammal species captured. Therefore, a ‘Licence to Possess and Administer an S4 Drug’, for use of pentobarbitone sodium, was also obtained from the SA Department of Health to euthanize specimens. No reptile vouchers were requested in this instance.

3.3 Survey site selection Effective survey of flora and fauna across a broad area involves detailed survey of all major habitat types within the target area. Based on this, a preliminary site selection process was undertaken using aerial imagery to capture all broad habitat types potentially impacted by the proposed mining operation. The imagery of the site highlighted the location of the mineral deposits (known impact areas), and indicative locations for infrastructure and stockpiles. All broad habitat types which were intersected by areas of likely, probable or potential impact were considered during the site selection process. In this case, given the patchy nature of remnant vegetation across the project area, the major remaining vegetation patches of reasonable quality were targeted as a priority, and as a means of capturing the maximum level of biodiversity across the site. Highly disturbed agricultural land (the major vegetation type of the study area) was not targeted, though opportunistic observations in these areas were made.

The project area is largely impacted by existing agricultural practices, and only a small proportion of the indicative mining lease area retains remnant vegetation considered to represent suitable habitat for native fauna.

Final field site selection was undertaken by the field team on 10 October 2011. This final field selection process was aimed at specifically identifying micro-habitats for the actual survey sites which were indicative of the habitat type each site was representing. Final survey site locations are shown in Figure 3-1, with northings and eastings of each site listed in Table 3-2 below. Flora and fauna surveys were undertaken at sites 1-5. Additional flora surveys across the project site were undertaken at sites A - J. The methodology of in-field surveys are detailed later in this section.

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Table 3-2 Field survey site locations

Site Easting1 Northing1 Broad Habitat Type Survey Target Fauna, Vegetation Mixed Mallee low open woodland with patches of 1 565056 6321994 Community and tall open shrubland and low open shrubland Landform Mixed Mallee and Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp. Fauna, Vegetation 2 565363 6320618 mutica) low open woodland with low very open Community and shrubland Landform Fauna, Vegetation Mixed Mallee low open woodland with patches of 3 563964 6320889 Community and tall open shrubland and low open shrubland Landform Fauna, Vegetation Mixed Mallee low open woodland with open 4 563899 6322797 Community and shrubland and Spinifex hummock grassland Landform Fauna, Vegetation Boree (M. pauperiflora) low open woodland with 5 563320 6322035 Community and Samphire low open shrubland Landform Mixed Mallee low open woodland with open Vegetation Community A 567549 6320363 saltbush shrubland and Landform Mixed Mallee low open woodland with Melaleuca Vegetation Community B 568153 6318110 shrubland and Spinifex hummock grassland and Landform Mixed Mallee low open woodland with Broombush Vegetation Community C 568403 6317362 (M. uncinata) and Dryland Tea-tree (M. lanceolata) and Landform Vegetation Community D 565038 6315216 Yorrell (E. gracilis) low open woodland and Landform Mixed Mallee low open woodland with Melaleuca Vegetation Community E 562451 6315632 and saltbush shrubland and Landform Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open Vegetation Community F 562235 6320130 woodland with dense shrubland and Landform Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp mutica) and Gilga Vegetation Community G (E. brachycalyx) low open woodland with bluebush and Landform 560385 6320448 and saltbush shrubland Mixed Mallee low open woodland with Spinifex Vegetation Community H 565401 6320467 hummock grasslands and Landform Southern Cypress Pine (C. gracilis) open woodland Vegetation Community I 558921 6320949 with low open shrubland and Landform Yorrell (E. gracilis) + Boree (M. pauperifolia ssp. Vegetation Community J mutica) low open woodland with sparse shrubland and Landform 562171 6322333 and dense speargrass 1 Locations recorded in GDA94, Z53

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Figure 3-1 CEIP flora and fauna survey sites

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3.3.1 Flora survey and landscape description The flora survey component of this study involved a detailed vegetation survey at each of the 5 ‘fauna’ survey sites along with an additional 10 sites (A-J) which were only surveyed for vegetation and landform characteristics. Methodologies broadly followed that presented in A Guide to Native Vegetation Survey; Using the Biological Survey of South Australia (DHUD 1997). This was undertaken to provide an inventory of species present, to note the occurrence of threatened species or assemblages, to provide detailed habitat information, and to note any existing disturbance or degradation of the sites (i.e. to document ‘habitat condition’). Floristic and landscape information was recorded for each flora survey site as described below. Information recorded included:

• GPS Coordinates using a hand-held 12-satellite GPS set to GDA94 (accuracy around + 5 m) • General Site description • Description of physical environment • Description of the level of disturbance, if any • Vegetation classification and all species present identified • Fire history and impact • Evidence of weeds and feral animals • Soil, rock, crust and groundcover description • Digital photograph numbers • Any other relevant information

In addition to survey of the characteristics listed above, reference photographs were taken at each site, in each of the four compass bearings (N, E, S, W). These images are presented in Appendix B.

Any indigenous plant species that could not confidently be identified in the field were sampled and preserved using plant presses for later identification at ‘base-camp’ (accommodation for duration of survey) or for independent identification by the SA Herbarium in Adelaide so that the confirmed species names could be incorporated into this report. Field identifications of plant species were made using a variety of taxonomic keys, books and reference materials, including:

• Acacias of South Australia (Whibley and Symon 1992) • Flora of South Australia Vol I-IV revised (Black 1986) • Field Guide to Eucalypts – Volume 2: South-western and Southern Australia (Brooker and Kleinig 2001) • Grasses of South Australia (Jessop et al. 2006) • Plants of Western New South Wales (Cunningham et al. 1993) • Weeds of the South-East; An Identification Guide for Australia (Richardson et al. 2007)

3.3.2 Fauna survey A total of 5 sites were established and surveyed for faunal assemblages. Sites were marked in-field with flagging tape at the nearest access point and at the survey site to assist with relocation during the survey. Flagging was removed at the end of the survey. Site locations were recorded by GPS (Datum: MGA 53). Site locations are provided in Table 3-2 and plotted on the map in Figure 3-1 above. Habitat photographs of each survey site are provided in Appendix A.

Trapping (mammals and reptiles) Pitfall lines and trap lines were established at each site and monitored continuously over 4 nights and 4 days. Five sites were established and monitored concurrently (from 10 to 14 October, 2011). All equipment and

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flagging tape was removed from each site at the end of the survey period, and the pit traps holes were filled and compacted to ground level. The layout of traps in each survey site involved:

• A drift fence line, approximately 60m x 0.3m, dug into the ground approximately 5-10cm depth with 6 pitfall traps spaced evenly along the length • 20 (‘type A’) Elliott traps, 10 on each side of the pit-line, placed within shade beneath low shrubs or fallen branches approximately 10m apart. The trap lines were generally placed extending outward diagonally from each side of the pit line • 2 Cage traps – one at the end of each line of Elliot trap line

This trap layout is based on the Guidelines for Vertebrate Surveys in South Australia publication (DEH 2000). The pit traps consisted of poly-plastic sheets (455mm x 380mm) rolled into a tube with a mesh base bound around one end. These were dug into the ground to be flush with the surface approximately every 8-10m along the drift-fence. Where possible, the pits were located within different microhabitats along the line. The pit traps remained in place over 4 nights, and were checked early each morning and rechecked during the afternoon (for nocturnal and diurnal captures respectively). The Elliott traps and cage traps also remained in place over 4 nights and were checked early each morning then closed for the day (to avoid daytime captures and heat stress). All traps were re-opened late each afternoon and rebaited if required. The bait involved a mixture of oats, honey, peanut butter rolled into a small ball for the Elliot traps, and sardines and/or bait balls for the cages.

Any trapped animals were bagged for identification back at base camp and released near the capture point at a later time. There was no need to mark captured animals in this instance because species diversity rather than abundance was being investigated.

Bird survey Bird surveys were conducted at each fauna survey site on a minimum of two mornings and two afternoons. If weather conditions or timing were not considered optimal, repeat surveys were undertaken. A conscious effort to rotate field personnel between sites was made, given the documented ‘observer bias’ (Alldredge et al. 2006) which occurs during bird survey work (e.g. some observers are better at identifying inconspicuous birds by calls than others, some tend to focus on canopy birds, others on ground-level species). Bird surveys occurred during the early morning (beginning 0645 hours to approximately 0800 hours) and early evening (from 1630 until dusk), with an occasional additional surveys conducted throughout the day if conditions were good. Each survey ran for a minimum of 30 minutes and recorded all species seen or heard (and identified), utilising the site or flying over (e.g. raptors, if they were observed hunting overhead). Birds that were noted outside of the time of bird count, or outside the survey sites, were noted as opportunistic observations and recorded elsewhere (this is also true of any records of mammals and reptiles).

Less common bird calls, or those which observers were unsure of, were confirmed using an audio playback system (MP3 player). This system was also used to confirm, or double-check, observations of any significant species which were recorded.

Active reptile, track and scat searches Each site was also actively searched at least twice for reptiles, along with any indications of mammal, bird or reptile activity evidenced by tracks, scats and traces (e.g. burrows, diggings, shed skin, etc). Any reptiles noted during these searches were either identified in-field, or captured (where possible), bagged and identified back at base camp using taxonomic keys and magnifying aids. If search conditions were considered not optimal

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during any search (i.e. due to inclement weather conditions, or poor timing), additional searches were undertaken. Searches were undertaken for a minimum of 30 minutes and involved:

• Turning rocks and logs, raking through leaf litter and grasses beneath trees, looking under bark, in crevices, in hollows • Recording the number of individuals of each species seen • Recording scats, tracks and other signs or traces where they could be confidently attributed to species (e.g. ‘triangular’ diggings within ant nests would be considered evidence of echidnas at the site, distinctive scats of foxes, Malleefowl mounds, lizard or snake skins, etc)

Spotlighting and call play-back Nocturnal searches were conducted at each site which involved spotlighting and listening for nocturnal vertebrate species, as well as call play-back. Searches were undertaken for a minimum of 30 minutes, and surveys were repeated if conditions were deemed to be poor. Spotlighting was conducted using high-voltage spotlights with battery packs (Lightforce Walkabout Kit) and with head mounted LED torches. The high voltage spotlights were used to systematically scan tree canopies, trunks and branches and distant ground for any movement or ‘eyeshine’ from nocturnal mammals and birds. Head mounted torches were used to actively search more proximate areas for nocturnal reptiles (geckos), again utilising ‘eyeshine’ techniques and actively searching fallen timber, tree trunks and beneath bark.

Call playback units were used to periodically play calls of targeted species (i.e. those known from the broader region and/or suspected from the project area) in an attempt to get individuals to respond and thus alert the survey team of their presence. In this instance, calls of the Southern Boobook Owl (Ninox novaeseelandiae), Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides), Spotted Nightjar (Eurostopodus argus), Australian Owlet Nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus), Spotted Grass Frog (Limnodynastes tasmaniensis) and Common Brush-tailed Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) were played at each site.

Bat trapping and recording Bats were surveyed using an Anabat bat detector, which was set up during late afternoons to record bat vocalisations overnight at a central and appropriate location within survey sites. The Anabat recorded calls at sites 2, 3 and 4. Vocalisations were assessed using Analook software, and species determined using vocalisation keys. Harp traps were not used due to a lack of suitable locations found on site.

Opportunistic observations Opportunistic observations make up an important component of a fauna survey and constitute any observations made while travelling around the project area or between the survey sites. Any animals identified opportunistically, either via direct observation or by evidence, were recorded on data sheets with location and any useful notes. These species were added to site species lists if identified at a survey site, or to a general survey species list if from the broader project area (i.e. not attributed to a particular habitat type).

Identification The following reference materials were used for species identification and classification:

Reptiles • A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia 2nd edition (Wilson and Swan 2008) • Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia (Cogger 2000) • Key to the Geckos of South Australia (Hutchinson unpublished) • Key to the Skinks of South Australia (Hutchinson unpublished)

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Birds • The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, 7th edition (Pizzey and Knight 2006) • Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, 7th edition (Simpson and Day 2004)

Mammals • A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia (Menkhorst and Knight 2001) • Mammals of Australia (Strahan 1995) • Tracks, Scats and Other Traces (Triggs 1996) • An Interim Guide to Identification of Insectivorous Bats of South-eastern Australia (Parnaby 1992) • Bat calls of New South Wales (Pennay et al. 2004) • Key to Dasyuridae of SA (Kemper unpublished) • Key to Muridae of South Australia (Kemper unpublished)

Total fauna survey effort The total planned survey effort did not differ markedly from the actual survey effort delivered over the survey. Survey effort has been calculated by number of trapping nights (number of traps multiplied by the number of nights the traps were set for) and the total number of active surveys and searches. Table 3-3 shows the summary of total trapping effort.

Table 3-3 Total trapping effort

Elliot Active Cage (Type A) Pitfall Anabat Reptile, Traps (no. Pitfall Bird Spotlighting/ Site Traps (no. Trap (no. of Track & of trap Trap Days Surveys Call Playback of trap Nights nights) Scat nights) nights) Searches 1 80 8 20 20 0 2 3 1 2 80 8 20 20 1 5 6 1 3 80 8 20 20 1 4 6 1 4 80 8 20 20 1 2 6 1 5 80 8 20 20 0 2 4 1 Total 400 40 100 100 3 15 25 5

Fauna survey limitations The limitations associated with this fauna survey, as with any stand alone fauna survey, are as follows:

• The results of the fauna surveys are only a ‘snapshot’ in time and cannot describe seasonal variation or migrations • Scats could not always be correctly attributed to species, however where they could be confidently identified, they provide an accurate indication of the present and habitat preferences of certain species (Triggs 1996) • Detection of nocturnal species by spotlighting potentially does not detect all of the animals present and is affected by environmental factors (Wayne et al. 2005) • Another study (Read & Moseby 2001) concluded that environmental factors affected the capture rates of small reptiles. Unfortunately, planning logistics for fauna surveys around specific environmental conditions is very difficult. Planning to survey during spring (as was done here) allows the best chance

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of favourable conditions and species identification. It is noted that conditions were considered favourable during this survey

3.3.3 Evaluation of conservation significance The conservation significance of flora, fauna and habitats recorded on this survey within and surrounding the project area was assessed with reference to:

• Species classified as threatened Nationally in accordance with the EPBC Act • Species classified as migratory in accordance with the EPBC Act • Species classified as threatened in South Australia in accordance with the NPW Act (as amended in 2000) • Species classified as threatened in the Eyre Peninsula region of South Australia as stated in the Biodiversity Plan for Eyre Peninsula (DEH 2002)

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4 Results of desktop flora and fauna study

4.1 Eyre Yorke Block bioregion The Eyre Yorke Block bioregion contains the transition from semi arid to arid plant species and animal species, with at least 25 plant species endemic to the bioregion. Animals of conservation significance known from the broader region include the nationally endangered Regent Honeyeater (Xanthomyza phrygia) and Little Tern (Sterna albifrons), 10 nationally vulnerable bird species, one nationally vulnerable reptile, two nationally endangered mammals and two nationally vulnerable mammals (DEH 2005).

Habitat fragmentation and degradation are key threatening processes for native flora and fauna in the bioregion as a result of the significant clearance of native vegetation for agriculture and grazing. While the Native Vegetation Act 1991 now regulates and protects against broad scale clearance, exemptions in the Act allow for some minor clearance.

Feral animals including rabbits, foxes, cats, goats and horses present threats to native plant and animal species through grazing, competition and predation. Competition from exotic weed species such as bridal creeper, wild oats and veldt grass presents a further threat to native vegetation.

The landscape of the bioregion is unique and varied, comprising limestone rolling plains, granite inselbergs, coastal and inland wetlands, salt lakes, ephemeral lakes, stands of mangroves and offshore islands.

4.1.1 Eyre Mallee (EYB5) sub-region The Eyre Mallee subregion has the highest biodiversity within the EYB bioregion with 1,212 recorded plant species (6 endemic), 177 bird species, 82 reptile species and 23 species of mammals (DEH, 2002). The subregion is comprised of Archaean basement rocks and Proterozoic sandstones overlain by undulating calcareous plains which are, in turn overlain by aeolian quartz sands often including widely spaced low sand dunes. Dominant vegetation formations found in the sub-region include Mallee low woodland and scrub, tea- tree low woodland and chenopod low shrubland. A large proportion of native vegetation in the region has been cleared for agriculture and remnant vegetation is typically found as comparatively small, disjunct scrub blocks on farmland. Exceptions are Pinkawillinie Conservation Park, and Hambidge Wilderness Area located to the northeast and south east of the study area respectively.

Species of conservation significance known to exist in the region include: Blue Range emubush (Eremophila barbata); Mallee on clay loam plains; Darke Peak Mallee (Eucalyptus cretata); cloaked spyridium (Spyridium erymnocladum); desert comb grevillea (Grevillea sarissa ssp. umbellifera); and yellow-fruit daisy (Brachycome xanthocarpa) (ANRA, 2009).

4.2 Biodiversity and conservation context Remnant native vegetation is scattered throughout the broader region primarily within conservation areas (Parks, Reserves, Wilderness Protection Area (WPA) and Heritage Agreements (HA)), but also as discrete and isolated patches within cleared private land, as well as along roadsides and in rail reserves. These areas are managed to protect species and generally contain larger numbers of protected flora and fauna than smaller isolated patches that occur within the agricultural landscape. The proposed Mining Lease avoids a key biodiversity planning area on the Eyre Peninsula, classified as a ‘Large Remnant Area’ (Nature Maps 2013, DEH 2002).

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4.3 Regional Vegetation Association Within the Eyre Mallee subregion, the study area falls within the Koongawa Environmental Association (Laut et al. 1977). This vegetation association is characterised as an undulating plain with parallel dunes and occasional quartzite or granite inselbergs. Most of the plains and dunes have a cultural grassland cover used for rotation cereal cultivation and livestock grazing. The remainder retains a cover of open mallee scrub of Ridge-fruited Mallee, Narrow-leaved Mallee or Broombush which is used for light cereal (Laut et al. 1977). This association has moderate remnancy (35%) of which greater than 49% is protected in reserves, parks or heritage agreement areas (DEWNR 2013).

4.4 Listed flora and ecological communities A total of up to ten flora species of national or state conservation significance where identified by the desktop review as potentially occurring in the survey area. No threatened communities of national significance were identified for the study area.

The EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool was examined using a 5 km buffer zone from the proposed mining lease and results compared to BDBSA records for the study area (Appendix A). Five plant species were identified as potentially present by the search (Table 4-1). The Greencomb Orchid (Caladenia tensa, endangered), Yellow Swainson-pea (Swainsona pyrophila, vulnerable) and Resin Wattle (Acacia rhetinocarpa, vulnerable) are classified as ‘likely’ to occur or ‘suitable habitat likely’ to occur in the area. The other two species, Goldsack’s Leek-orchid (Prasophyllum goldsackii, endangered) and Fat-leaved Wattle (Acacia pinguifolia) were classified as ‘may occur’ or ‘may have suitable habitat occurring’ within the search radius. None of these EPBC listed species have BDBSA records within 5 km of the proposed ML. Conservation significance and assessment of likelihood of occurrence of EPBC listed species is discussed further in Section 6.

A BDBSA search within 5 km of the proposed ML only revealed historic records for one flora species with status under the State NPW Act (Plains-beard Orchid, Calochilus pruinosus, rare). This species has not been recorded in the area since the 1960’s. Due to the paucity of records, consistent with the lack of habitat within the ML, a wider search was conducted (within the EL and surrounds), which only revealed 4 additional state listed species and no EPBC listed species. See Table 4-2 and Table 4-4. Conservation significance and assessment of likelihood of occurrence of NPW SA listed species is discussed further in Section 6.

Table 4-1 Conservation significant flora potentially present (EPBC PMST) within the study area3

EPBC Likelihood of Species Name Common Name EPBC Act1 SA NPW Act2 Occurrence Species or species habitat may Acacia pinguifolia Fat-leaved Wattle EN E occur within the area Species or species habitat likely Acacia rhetinocarpa Resin Wattle VU V to occur within the area Greencomb Spider- Species or species habitat likely Caladenia tensa EN - orchid to occur within the area Species or species habitat may Prasophyllum goldsackii Goldsack’s Leek -orchid EN E occur within the area Species or species habitat likely Swainsona pyrophila Yellow Swainson-pea VU R to occur within the area 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Status: Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), Rare (R); 2 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V), Rare (R);.3 The study area is the proposed ML boundary with a 5 km buffer.

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Table 4-2 Conservation significant flora previously recorded (BDBSA) within 5 km of the ML

Species Name Common Name EPBC Act1 SA NPW Act2 BDBSA Records Calochilus pruinosus Plains Beard-orchid - R Historic records within 1 km (1962), recent records (2001, 2005; 64-75 km from study area). 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Action 1999 2 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: Rare (R); 2 Biological Database of South Australia

Table 4-3 Conservation significant flora previously recorded (BDBSA) within EL and surrounds

Species Name Common Name EPBC Act1 SA NPW Act2 BDBSA Records Austrostipa echinata Spiny Spear-grass - R No records within 5 km of ML, closest records 16 km (1998), recent regional record (2001, 67 km from mine site). Austrostipa vickeryana Vickery's Spear-grass - R No records within 5 km of ML, closest records 9.2 km from mine site (2000). Poa drummondiana Knotted Poa - R No records within 5 km of ML, closest records 16 km from mine site (1998), recent regional records (2003, 69-76 km from mine site). Olearia picridifolia Rasp Daisy-bush - R No records within 5 km of ML, closest records are 12.7 km from mine site (1986), recent regional records (2003, 75 km from mine site). 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Action 1999 2 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: Rare (R); 2 Biological Database of South Australia

4.5 Weeds A total of up to 30 weeds may occur in the survey area, most of which have no formal legislative controls. The EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool (Appendix A) indicated that two significant invasive species that may occur or have habitat that is likely to occur within the region (Table 4-4). The EPBC PMST report suggests weeds that are either WoNS (weeds of national significance) or other introduced plants that are considered to pose a significant threat to the region.

Table 4-4 Invasive flora flagged as potentially present (EPBC) within the study area

BDBSA record EPBC Likelihood of Species Name Common Name in EL or within 5 km of Occurrence proposed ML Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper Species of species habitat likely N to occur within the area Carrichtera annua Ward’s Weed Species of species habitat may Y occur within the area

The potential presence of the significant invasive species was only supported by corresponding BDBSA records from the EL for Ward’s Weed. There were also records for this species within 5 km of the study area from 2000.

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Ward’s weed is not a WoNs and is not Declared for the state, but is considered a level 2 weed threat in the EP region (DEWNR 2013b). Both species highlighted by the EPBC PMST are known to exist in the greater Eyre Peninsula region (DEH 2002; Croft, Milne and Pedler 2005-2009;Brandle 2010). Bridal Creeper, a very aggressive weed, is declared for the whole of South Australia under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 (i.e. if present must be actively controlled). Bridal Creeper is also recognised as a Weed of National Significance (AWC, 2012).

A search of BDBSA records of the study area (proposed ML and 5 km buffer) identified 30 species, most of which have recent records (i.e. within the last 20 years) (Table 4-5). The majority of these species are minor or low weed threat weeds, however one species (Horehound) is Declared in SA and is a Red Alert Weed as per DEWNR 2013b. Several other Red Alert Weeds have also been recorded in the study area (e.g. Aleppo Pine, Fountain Grass) and also in the wider surrounds of the EL (e.g. False Caper). Red Alert Weeds are major threats as per weed threat indicators provided per region by Croft, Milne and Pedler (2005-2009) (also Milne et al. 2008, p 233) and recently updated in the BushRAT manual (Croft and Milne pers. comm., DEWNR 2013b).

It should be noted that the Bush Condition Monitoring Manual for the Eyre Peninsula region (Milne et al. 2008) suggests that under low rainfall conditions the two key vegetation communities in this region, Mallee on sand dunes (EP 5.1) and Mallee low woodland (EP 8.1) would originally have sparse weed cover or contain herbaceous weeds and annual exotic grasses. For both of these broad communities where more than 25 weeds are present the condition of the vegetation is considered to be in poor or very poor condition (Milne, et al. 2008).

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Table 4-5 Weeds previously recorded within 5 km of the proposed ML

Species Name Common Name BDBSA Records2 Comment1 Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel Records within 5 km (1998) WT1 Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed Greater than 40 records within 5 km WT2 (1999, 2000) Avena barbata Bearded Oat Records within 5 km (1999, 2000), WT2 recent regional records (>33 km away, 2003) Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip Records within 5 km (1998, 2000), WT2 recent regional records (>32 km away, 2011) Bromus diandrus Great Brome Records within 5 km (2000) WT1 Bromus rubens Red Brome Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (44 km away, 2003) Bupleurum semicompositum Hare's Ear Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (>32 km away, 2003) Carrichtera annua Wards Weed Records within 5 km (2000) WT2 Eragrostis minor Small Stink-grass Recent records within 5 km (2011) WT2 Erodium cicutarium Cut-leafs Heron’s Bill Recent records within 5 km (1999), WT2 recent regional records (>32 km away, 2003) Hedypnois rhagadioloides ssp. Cretan Weed Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (>48 km away, 2003) Hordeum glaucum Blue Barley-grass Records within 5 km (1999, 2000), WT1 recent regional records (> 32 km away, 2003) Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (> 100 km away, 2004) Lolium rigidum Wimmera Ryegrass Records within 5 km (1999), recent Aggressive, WT2 regional records (>60 km away, 2001) Marrubium vulgare Horehound Records within 5 km (1999) Aggressive, Declared SA, WT3 Medicago truncatula Barrel Medic Records within 5 km (1999), recent Aggressive, WT2 regional record (> 100 km away, 2008) Mesembryanthemum Common Iceplant Records within 5 km (1999), recent Aggressive, WT2 crystallinum regional records (>33 km away, 2011) Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Slender Iceplant Records within 5 km (1999, most Aggressive, WT2 recent) Moraea setifolia Thread Iris Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT2 regional recors (>44 km away, 2003) Pennisetum setaceum Fountain Grass Records within 5 km (1982), recent Aggressive, WT4 regional record (>73 km away, 2011) Pinus Halepensis Aleppo Pine Records within 5 km (1999) WT3 Piptatherum miliaceum Rice Millet Records within 5 km (1999) WT2 Salvia verbenaca var. Wild Sage Records within 5 km (1999) WT2 Silene nocturna Mediterranean Catchfly Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (> 33 km away, 2003)

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Species Name Common Name BDBSA Records2 Comment1 Silena tridentata Catchfly species Records within 5 km (1999), recent WT1 regional records (> 76 km away, 2003) Sisymbrium erysimoides Smooth Mustard Records within 5 km (1999), recent Aggressive, WT1 regional records (>32 km away, 2003) Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Records within 5 km (1975),recent Aggressive, WT2 regional records (> 97 km away, 2011) Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle Records within 5 km (1999, 2000), WT1 recent regional records (> 32 km away, 2003) Vulpia muralis Wall Fescue Records within 5 km (1998), recent Aggressive, WT2 regional records (>32 km away, 2003) Vulpia myuros f. Myuros Rat's-tail Fescue Records within 5 km (1999), recent Aggressive, WT2 regional records (> 48 km away, 2003) 1 Declared status as per Natural Resources Management Act 2004, Aggressiveness as per Appendix 4, DWLBC 2005 and Croft, Milne and Pedler 2005-2009 (WT1-5 = Weed Threat 1 to 5, where 1 is low threat and 3-5 are red alert weed (as per BushRAT manual 2013, Appendix 6 for EP region S. Croft and T. Milne pers comm.);2 Biological Database of South Australia (records within 5km, and most recent regional record where applicable).

4.6 Listed fauna The desktop review identified 14 fauna species of national or state conservation significance as potentially present within the survey area, including 12 birds and 2 mammals. Actual likelihood and justification is discussed in Section 6.

Similar to the desktop flora assessment, an EPBC Protected Matters Search was conducted using a 5 km buffer zone around the proposed ML and compared to BDBSA records for a 5 km buffer around the proposed ML. Regional records within the EL (~ 20 km buffer from study area) were also reviewed where records for a species were limited.

A review of the EPBC Act Protected Matters database (Appendix A) revealed that six species or their habitat are considered ‘likely’ to occur in the study area, namely: Great Egret, Cattle Egret, Fork-tailed Swift, Malleefowl,, Slender-billed Thornbill, and Sandhill Dunnart. It should be noted that the Slender-billed Thornbill has recently been delisted, but still has conservation status under the NPW Act. The EPBC Protected Matters Search also predicted that the study area and surrounds ‘may’ provide suitable habitat for presence of a further four bird species which are protected as migratory species under the EPBC Act; Osprey, Oriental Plover, Rainbow Bee- eater and White Bellied Sea Eagle (see Table 4-6).

A review of the Biological Database of South Australia only revealed two records of fauna listed under Commonwealth and or South Australian conservation legislation within the ML and a 5km buffer zone (Table 4-7). There were regional records for 3 other species within the wider EL, however these species are unlikely to occur in the area given the conservation rating relates to sub species which are not known from the area. See Table 4-7 and Section 6 for further discussion of actual likelihood of occurrence.

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Table 4-6 Conservation significant fauna potentially present (EPBC PMST3) within study area

EPBC Likelihood of Common Name Species Name EPBC Act1 SA NPW Act2 Occurrence3 Birds Cattle Egret Ardea ibis MW, LM R Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Eastern Osprey /Osprey Pandion cristatus / P. haliatus LM E Species or species habitat may occur within area Fork-tailed Swift Apus pacificus MM, LM - Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Great Egret Ardea modesta MW, LM - Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Malleefowl Leipoa ocellata VU, MT V Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Oriental Plover Charadrius veredus MW, LM - Species or species habitat may occur within area Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus MT, LM - Species or species habitat may occur within area Slender-billed Thornbill Acanthiza iredalei iredalei 4 R Species or species habitat likely to (western) occur within area White-bellied Sea-eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster MT, LM E Species or species habitat may occur within area Mammal Species or species habitat likely to Sandhill Dunnart Sminthopsis psammophila EN V occur within area 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Status: Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), Migratory Marine (MM), Migratory Terrestrial (MT), Migratory Wetland (MW), Marine (LM). 2 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: Rare (R); Vulnerable (V); Endangered (E) 3 EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool Result 4 Species appeared as Vulnerable in EPBC PMST, but was delisted in 2014.

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Table 4-7 Conservation significant fauna previously recorded within study area (EL, ML 5km buffer)

Common Name Species Name EPBC Act1 SA NPW Act2 BDBSA Records3 Birds Malleefowl Leipoa ocellata VU, MT V Record within 5 km of ML (1900), more recent records within EL > 12 km from ML (2006). Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor - E North-western subspecies endangered in SA. ssp. plumbea Subspecies not specified within fauna records. No records within 5 km of ML, closest record (10 km, 2001), recent record (32 km, 2006). Records likely to be for Strepera versicolor intermedia. Jacky Winter Microeca fascinans - R South-eastern subspecies rare in SA. Subspecies not ssp. fascinans specified within fauna records. No records within 5 km of ML, closest record is 12 km (2002), most recent record (2003, 32-53 km away). Records3 do not specify which ssp. is represented, but unlikely protected ssp. is present, as beyond known limit of extent3. White-winged Corcorax - R Records within 5 km of ML (2001), recent record Chough melanorhamphos (2006, 100 km away). 10 records in 2003, primarily from Bascombe Well CP. Mammal Greater Long-eared Nyctophilus V V Species has had taxonomic review, Nyctophilus Bat timoriensis timoriensis is now known as N. corbeni (has EPBC (now N. corbeni) rating) or Nyctophilus sp 2, with distribution centralised around the Murray-Darling Basin (distant from study area)5. Form not specified within fauna records, but unlikely to be N. corbeni. No records within 5 km. Last record3 within EL (14 km from ML, 1984). Regional records from 2003, 40 km away (Darke Peak and Carapee Hill CP). 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Status: Vulnerable (VU) 2 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: Rare (R);Vulnerable (V); Endangered (E) 3 Biological Database of South Australia Records

4.7 Introduced fauna A total of nine pest species, five mammals and four birds, were identified by the desktop review as potentially occurring in the study area.

The EPBC Protected Matters Search (Appendix A) indicated the potential presence of nine pest species, all classified as ‘likely’ to occur or have habitat that is likely to occur in the study area (Table 4-8).

BDBSA records for the study area (within 5 km of ML) were only found for the House Sparrow and Common Starling. No regional records were found for the European Goldfinch and the Rock Pigeon. Although the potential presence of the remaining fauna was not supported by corresponding BDBSA records, regional records exist and all of these species are known to exist in the greater Eyre Peninsula region (DEH 2002, Brandle 2010).

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It is likely that the BDBSA dataset underestimates the presence of common introduced species, particularly birds, which are often overlooked by the average observer when submitting formal records (in comparison to sightings of threatened species). All the identified pest fauna, mammals in particular, are considered to pose a significant threat to natural biodiversity in Australia.

Table 4-8 Pest fauna flagged as potentially present (EPBC) within the study area

Species Name Common Name EPBC1 Likelihood of Occurrence BDBSA2 record Capra hircus Goat Species or species habitat likely to occur Not within 5 km, records >32 km within the area (2003) Felis catus Cat Species or species habitat likely to occur Not within 5 km, records within 10 within the area km (Y (2001, Hambidge WA) Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit Species orspecies habitat likely to occur Not within 5 km, nearest record 13 within the area km (2001) Mus musculus House Mouse Species or species habitat likely to occur No records within 5 km, nearest within the area records 8 km (1969) Vulpes vulpes European Red Fox Species or species habitat likely to occur Not within 5 km, nearest record 15 within the area km (1966, Hambidge WA) Carduelis Carduelis European Goldfinch Species or species habitat likely to occur No BDBSA records within region within the area Columbia livia Rock Pigeon Species or species habitat likely to occur No BDBSA records within region within the area Passer domesticus House Sparrow Species or species habitat likely to occur Records within 5 km (2001) within the area Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling Species or species habitat likely to occur Records within 5 km (2001) within the area 1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Status (Protected Matters Search Tool); 2 Biological Database of South Australia.

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5 Results of field survey The following section documents the outcomes of the baseline flora and fauna survey conducted between 10 and 14 October 2011.

5.1 Weather conditions The weather conditions during survey are summarised by Table 5-1, presenting data from the Kyancutta weather station (18044). Conditions were relatively mild, with the maximum daily temperatures ranging between 19.5°C and 28°C, and minimum overnight temperatures ranging between 6.6°C and 15°C. A storm passed through the region in the early hours of 14 October but only resulted in minor rainfall. Overall conditions were considered suitable for fauna survey and not considered to reduce effective survey effort.

Table 5-1 Field survey weather (Kyancutta Station 18044)

Observation 10/10 11/10 12/10 13/10 14/10 Average Maximum temp (°C) 19.5 21.7 24.8 28 22.8 23.4 Minimum temp (°C) 9.5 10.1 6.6 8.5 15 9.9 Total rainfall (mm) 1.8 0 0 0 0.6 - 3pm relative humidity (%) 48 47 35 27 77 46.8 3pm wind speed (km/h) 13 4 6 6 31 12 3pm wind direction SSW SW SE WNW WSW - Source: BOM 2012

5.2 Vegetation communities Broadly, 14 vegetation communities occur across the Eyre Peninsula as defined in detail by Milne et al. (2008). These Bushland Condition Monitoring descriptions are useful for benchmarking current condition of existing vegetation. Two of these communities are representative of the vegetation within the study area: EP 5 “Mallee with open to mid-dense sclerophyll shrub understorey on inland dunes and sandy-loams” and EP 8 “Mallee and low woodlands with an open sclerophyll shrub and chenopod understorey on calcareous loams”. These communities are further divided into subgroups, based on soil type and depth of sand. Milne (et al. 2008) describe a number of indicators of bush condition. For example, for some vegetation communities moderate to high healthy communities are evident in Spring when diversity of native species is greater than 31, however species diversity can decrease with decreasing rainfall. Moderately healthy communities of other types naturally have decreased species diversity (eg. 16 + species) due to the presence of certain species e.g. Melaleuca pauperiflora (Boree) (Spring estimates).

Four broad vegetation types were identified during the flora survey of the mine site and these are presented below in Table 5-2. This table also shows how these vegetation types relate to the broader vegetation communities of the region, as described by Milne et al. (2008).

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Table 5-2 Vegetation communities and types of the mine site study area

Broad SKM Vegetation Survey Type SKM Vegetation Type Description Corresponding Major EP Vegetation Community or sub- group Description (Milne et al. 2008) Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. Includes patches of Broombush (Melaleuca uncinata) EP 5.1 incrassata)/Red Mallee (E. tall shrubland while understorey shrubs include Mallee Mallee on inland sand dunes and socialis)/Gilga (E. brachycalyx) low Blue-flower (Halgania cyanea), Thick-leaved Emubush deep sands (Nullabor-Spencer Dune open woodland on the deeper sands of (Eremophila crassifolia) and Wild Rosemary (Dampiera System) dune crests rosmarinifolia). Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland dominates the ground storey interspersed with Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra ssp scabra, A. flavescens). Red Mallee (Eucalytpus oleosa)/Yorrell Includes patches of Dryland Tea-tree (Melaleuca EP 8.1 (E. gracilis)/Narrow-leaved Mallee (E. lanceolata) and Boree (M. pauperiflora) with a sparse Mallee and low woodlands with an leptophylla) low open woodland on cover of understorey shrubs including Stiff Westringia open sclerophyll shrub and calcareous sandy plains and low dune (Westringia rigida), Mallee Saltbush (Rhagodia preissii chenopod understorey flanks ssp preissii) and Bitter Saltbush (Atriplex stipitata). Speargrasses (Austrostipa scabra ssp scabra) and (A. flavescens) and Wallaby Grasses (Austrodanthonia caespitose) and (A. setacea) dominate the ground storey. Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris Dense shrubby understorey with species including EP 8.1 gracilis) open woodland on sandy Veined Wait-a-while (Acacia colletioides), Desert Mallee and low woodlands with an calcareous plains Senna (Senna artemisioides ssp petiolaris and ssp open sclerophyll shrub and sturtii), and Sheep Bush (Geijera linearifolia). Ground chenopod understorey storey species include spear grass, Oblique-spined Bindyi (Sclerolaena obliquicuspis and Grey Bindyi (S. diacantha). Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. Highly saline clay soils support a range of halophilic EP 8.2 mutica) low open woodland with species including Salt Darwinia (Darwinia salina) and Mallee and low woodlands with Brown-head Samphire (Tecticornia Short-leaved Bluebush (Maireana brevifolia) and the sclerophyll and Chenopod indica ssp. leiostachya) and Grey introduced herbs Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum understorey dominated by Boree Samphire (T. halosarcia ssp. crystallinum) and Small Ice Plant (M. nodiflorum) with halosarcia) open low shrubland on Spear grass (Austrostipa scabra ssp scabra) and Grey saline depressions or small lakes Bindyi (Sclerolaena diacantha)found on the outer edges of the saline depressions where a thin sandy layer overlies the clay subsoil.

It should be noted that the original field report/data reported E. foecunda (Freemantle Mallee), however Nicolle 2013 now suggests previous records for E. foecunda on the EP are now considered to be E. leptophylla (Narrow-leaved Mallee) and these have been updated throughout.

A summary of the specific vegetation association at each site is provided in Table 5-3 and Figure 3-1. Full descriptions of each site are provided in 5.3 below.

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Table 5-3 Site specific vegetation associations of the mine site study area

Site Site Specific Vegetation Association (see 5.3) Summary (as per Fig 3-1) 1 Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata)/Red Mallee (E. socialis)/Gilga (E. Mixed mallee low open woodland +/- tall brachycalyx) low open woodland +/- Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp. Mutica) open Boree shrubland and Chenopod low over Samphire (Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya) low open shrubland open shrubland 2 Red Mallee (E. oleosa)/Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp. Mixed mallee and Melaleuca low open Mutica) low open woodland over low open shrubland and grassland woodland with low very open shrubland 3 Red Mallee (Eucalytpus oleosa) /Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Narrow-leaved Mallee Mixed mallee low open woodland +/- tall (E. leptophylla) low open woodland +/- Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) open shrubland and low open shrubland over sclerophyll shrubland 4 Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) / Yorrell (E. gracilis) / Gilga (E. Mixed low open mallee with low very open brachycalyx) open Mallee over Spinifex (Triodia irritans) and Speargrass shrubland and hummock/tussock grassland (Austrostipa scabra spp. Scabra, A. flavescens). 5 Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) low open woodland with Boree low open woodland with Chenopod Brown-head Samphire (Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya) and Grey low open shrubland Samphire (T. halosarcia ssp. halosarcia) low open shrubland A Gilga (E. brachycalyx) / Red Mallee (E. oleosa) low open woodland with Mixed mallee low open woodland with low Mallee Saltbush (Rhagodia preissii ssp. preissii) and Ruby Saltbush open Chenopod shrubland (Enchylaena tomentosa) low open shrubland B Yorell (E. gracilis) / Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) low open woodland Mixed mallee low open woodland with with Broombush (M. uncinata) and Dryland Tea-tree (M. lanceolata) over Melaleuca shrubland and hummock Spinifex (T. irritans) grassland C Gilga (E. brachycalyx) / Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) low open Mixed mallee low open woodland with woodland with Broombush (M. uncinata) and Dryland Tea-tree (M. Melaleuca shrubland and hummock lanceolata) over Spinifex (T. irritans) grassland D Yorrell (E. gracilis ) low open woodland over highly modified understorey Mallee low open woodland over exotic understorey E Yorell (E. gracilis) / Gilga (E. brachycalyx) / Red Mallee (Eucalytpus oleosa) Mixed mallee low open woodland with low open woodland with Dryland Tea-tree (M. lanceolata) over low open Melaleuca and low open Chenopod Mallee Saltbush (Rhagodia preissii ssp. preissii) shrubland F Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open woodland with a closed Native Pine open woodland with closed Desert Senna (Senna artemisioides ssp. platypoda) and Sheepbush (Geijera shrubland linearifolia) shrubland G Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp. mutica) and Gilga (E. brachycalyx) with Erect Melaleuca and mallee low open woodland Mallee Bluebush (Maireana pentatropis) and Bitter Saltbush (Atriplex with very open Chenopod shrubland stipitata) very open shrubland H Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Gilga (E.brachycalyx) open mallee over Spinifex (Triodia Mixed open mallee over hummock and irritans) hummock grassland and Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra ssp. tussock grassland scabra and A. flavescens) tussock grassland I Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open woodland with (Acacia Native Pine open woodland with low open colletioides) and Short-leaved Bluebush (Maireana brevifolia) low open shrubland shrubland and Speargrass J Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) low open Mallee / Boree low open woodland with woodland +/- Twinleaf (Zygophyllum aurantiacum) and Grey Bindyi low open shrubland and closed tussock (Sclerolaena diacantha) low open shrubland and closed Speargrass grassland grassland

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5.3 Survey site vegetation descriptions Descriptions of the vegetation characteristics at each of the five flora and fauna survey sites as well as the targeted flora survey sites are provided below, and illustrated by Appendix B. Full species lists of flora species present at each survey site is presented in Appendix C.

Flora (and fauna) site 1 Site 1 is located within the Heritage Agreement area (HA 869) which is the largest remnant “scrub block”, noting that large portions of it are devoid of scrub, (approximately 260 hectares) of the Study Area. The site is located on a red sand plain fringing a salty shallow depression or small lake. Ridge-fruited Mallee (Eucalyptus incrassata)/ Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Gilga (E.brachycalyx) low open woodland with patches of Broombush (Melaleuca uncinata) tall shrubland dominates on the sand plain. This community grades into Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) scrub over a Samphire (Tecticornia leiostachya ssp. indica) low open shrubland understorey fringing the bare saline clay flats of the lake bed. There are large areas that are devoid of vegetation and or support salt affected vegetation where the saline groundwater table is elevated. Understorey shrubs found on the sandplain include Mallee Blue-flower Halgania cyanea, Thick-leaved Emubush (Eremophila crassifolia) and Wild Rosemary (Dampiera rosmarinifolia), while Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland and Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra and A. flavescens) tussock grassland dominate the ground storey (Plate B-1, Appendix B).

Site 1 was found to be free of weed infestations apart from areas of Small Ice Plant Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum on the saline clay flats fringing the lake. No declared weeds were recorded on the site. An infestation of Onion Weed (Asphodelus fistulosus) was noted in adjacent cleared land immediately west of the scrub block. Recent grazing levels were low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs noted. No evidence of recent fire was recorded and it is estimated that the site has not been burnt for more than ten years.

A total of 35 native (94%) and 2 (5%) exotic species were recorded during the survey of Site 1.

Flora (and fauna) site 2 Site 2 is located within the Heritage Agreement area (HA 869) which is the largest remnant scrub block (approximately 260 hectares) of the Study Area (Plate B-2, Appendix B). The site is located on a low gypsiferous rise just off Kimba Road near the south eastern corner of the Heritage Agreement area. The pale sandy soils support Red Mallee Eucalyptus oleosa/ Yorrell E. gracilis/ Boree Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica low open woodland. The sparse understorey includes Stiff Westringia (Westringia rigida), and Comesperma volubile with Spinifex Triodia irritans hummock grassland dominating the areas of deeper sand along with Speargrass species Austrostipa scabra ssp scabra and A. flavescens.

Site 2 was free of weed infestations. Recent grazing levels were low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs noted. No evidence of recent fire was recorded and it is estimated that the site has not been burnt for more than ten years.

A total of 26 native species were recorded during the survey of the Site 2.

Flora (and fauna) site 3 Site 3 is located within the Heritage Agreement area (HA 869) which is the largest remnant scrub block (approximately 260 hectares) of the study area (Plate B-3, Appendix B). The site is located on a low pale sand dune in the south west of the Heritage Agreement area and characterised by Red Mallee (Eucalyptus socialis) / Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Narrow-leaved Mallee (E. leptophylla) low open woodland with Ridge-fruited Mallee E.

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incrassata on the dune crest. The site supports a diverse range of shrubs including Broombush Melaleuca uncinata, Honeysuckle Grevillea (Grevillea juncifolia) and Bottlebrush Hakea (Hakea francisiana) on the deeper sandy soils of the dune crests and Dryland Tea-tree Melaleuca lanceolata and Sheep Bush (Geijera linearifolia) on the shallower dune flanks.

Site 3 was found to be free of weed infestations apart from scattered small patches of Wild Turnip Brassica tournefortii. No declared weeds were recorded on the site. Recent grazing levels were low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs noted. No evidence of recent fire was recorded and it is estimated that the site has not been burnt for more than ten years.

A total of 38 native (97%) and one exotic species were recorded during the survey of the Site 3.

Flora (and fauna) site 4 Site 4 is located in a remnant scrub block of approximately 48 hectares in the north east of the Study Area. The site is positioned on a low pale sand plain adjacent to a shallow saline depression or small lake. Ridge-fruited Mallee (Eucalyptus incrassata)/ Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Gilga (E.brachycalyx) open Mallee with a diverse range of mid-storey species including Broombush (Melaleuca uncinata), Mallee Blue-flower (Halgania cyanea) and Red Microcybe (Microcybe multiflora ssp multiflora). Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland and Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra ssp scabra and A. flavescens) tussock grassland dominate the ground storey. This community grades into Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) shrubland over Brown-head Samphire (Tecticornia leiostachya ssp. indica) low open shrubland understorey fringing the bare saline clay flats of the lake bed (Plate B-4, Appendix B).

Site 4 was found to be relatively free of weed infestations apart from scattered small patches of Wild Turnip Brassica tournefortii and areas of Small Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum) on the saline clay flats fringing the lake. No declared weeds were recorded on the site however an infestation of False Caper (Euphorbia terracina) was noted in adjacent cleared land immediately east of the scrub block. Recent grazing levels were low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs noted. No evidence of recent fire was recorded and it is estimated that the site has not been burnt for more than ten years.

A total of 51 native (89%) and 6 exotic (11%) species were recorded during the survey of the Site 4.

Flora (and fauna) site 5 Site 5 is located in a remnant scrub block of approximately 31 hectares in the north east of the Study Area. The site is positioned within a shallow saline depression or small lake and is dominated by Brown-headed Samphire (Tecticornia leiostachya ssp. indica) and Grey Samphire (T. halocnemoides ssp. halocnemoides) open low shrubland (Plate B-5, Appendix B). The lake is fringed with Boree (Melaleuca pauperifolia ssp. mutica) tall shrubland with a Samphire understorey which grades into Red Mallee (Eucalyptus oleosa) low open woodland on the adjoining sandplain and low sandy rise north and south of the site.

The site is adjoined by cleared cropping land to the north and south and is characterised by high disturbance levels. Two abandoned exploratory mine shafts and accompanying two-wheel track are located adjacent to the site. The saline soils support dense patches of the introduced Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum) with moderate infestations of several weed species including the declared False Caper (Euphorbia terracina) recorded during the survey. The saline depressions once supported Boree tall shrubland however there has been extensive die off of these shrubs in the lower parts in recent decades due to the apparent rise in the saline watertable. Total grazing pressure at the site was low with no evidence of recent rabbit grazing.

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The dead Boree in the lake bed provided small hollows for nesting appropriate for several bird and bat species. A total of 25 native (60%) and 17 exotic (40%) species were recorded during the survey of Site 5, making this the weediest site surveyed within the proposed mining lease.

Flora site A Flora Site A is located in roadside vegetation on Lock Road on the eastern boundary of the Study Area. The roadside vegetation is bordered on the east and west by cleared cropping land and is comprised of Gilga (E. brachycalyx) / Red Mallee (E. oleosa) low open woodland with a sparse understorey of Mallee Saltbush (Rhagodia preissii ssp. preissii) and Ruby Saltbush (Enchylaena tomentosa) (Plate B-6, Appendix B). The vegetation is within a disturbed thin remnant strip with little connectivity and depauperate understorey. Weed species are prevalent with Ward’s Weed (Carrichtera annua) and Wild Turnip (Brassica tournefortii) common.

Flora site B Flora site B is a thin remnant scrub block of approximately 5 ha on dune crest bordering Lock Road on eastern edge of Study Area supporting Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) low open woodland with Broombush (Melaleuca uncinata), and Dryland Tea-tree (Melaleuca lanceolata) and Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland understorey (Plate B-7, Appendix B). Vegetation is thin strip of regrowth Mallee with no hollows with weeds including Wild Turnip and Vulpia common.

Flora site C Flora site C is a thin remnant scrub block of approximately 9 ha on dune crest bordering Lock Road on eastern edge of Study Area supporting Gilga (E.brachycalyx) /Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. incrassata) low open woodland with Broombush Melaleuca uncinata, and Dryland Tea-tree (Melaleuca lanceolata) and Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland understorey (Plate B-8, Appendix B). Vegetation is thin strip of regrowth Mallee with no hollows, moderately grazed and with weeds including Wild Turnip and Rye Grass (Lolium sp.) common.

Flora site D Flora site D is a remnant scrub block of approximately 29 ha adjoining Nantuma Road on southern boundary of Study Area. Vegetation is Yorrell (E. gracilis) low open woodland with a highly modified understorey dominated by unpalatable species including Shrubby Twin-leaf (Zygophyllum apiculatum). Weeds common including onion weed, wild turnip, rye grass. Vegetation at this site represents regrowth Mallee with no large trees and no hollows (Plate B-9, Appendix B).

Flora site E Flora site E is a remnant scrub block of approximately 1.5 ha on the corner of Nantuma and Dolphin Roads on the southern boundary of the Study Area. Vegetation is Yorrell (E. gracilis)/ Gilga (E.brachycalyx) / Red Mallee (E. socialis) low open woodland with Dryland Tea-tree (Melaleuca lanceolata) and a sparse understorey of Mallee Saltbush (Rhagodia preissii ssp. preissii) (Plate B-10, Appendix B). This site has a depauperate understorey and prolific cover of Wild Turnip.

Flora site F Flora site F is located on thin strip of roadside vegetation on Kimba Road and is dominated by Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open woodland with a dense shrub layer including Desert Senna (Senna artemisioides ssp. platypoda) and Sheepbush (Geijera linearifolia) (Plate B-11, Appendix B). A patchy cover of weeds including Horehound (Marrubium vulgare) was noted closer to road. Site F represents relatively intact understorey with Pine in mixed-age stands.

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Flora site G Flora site G is located on thin strip of roadside vegetation on Kimba Road and is dominated by Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) and Gilga (E. brachycalyx) with a depauperate understorey of short lived perennials including Erect Mallee Bluebush (Maireana pentatropis) and Bitter Saltbush (Atriplex stipitata) (Plate B-12, Appendix B). Weeds are common thoughout this area including onion weed disturbed by road works.

Flora site H Flora site H is located in a scrub block adjoining the southern side of Kimba Road. Vegetation is dominated by Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Gilga (E. brachycalyx) Mallee scrub with understorey species including Stiff Westringia (Westringia rigida) and Mallee Blue-flower (Halgania cyanea) (Plate B-13, Appendix B). Spinifex (Triodia irritans) hummock grassland and Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra and A. flavescens) tussock grassland dominate the ground storey. Trees in this area are regrowth Mallee without hollows and with a reasonably intact understorey present. A rubbish dump is located in the south of the scrub block.

Flora site I Flora Site I is located in an isolated scrub block of approximately 7 ha located just north of Kimba Road in the north west of the Study Area. The site is dominated by Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) open woodland with a sparse shrub layer including Veined Wait-a-while (Acacia colletioides) and Short-leaved Bluebush (Maireana brevifolia) and a Speargrass understorey (Plate B-14, Appendix B). Weeds are widespread throughout the site with Ward’s Weed (Carrichtera annua) and Oat Grass (Avena fatua) common. Scattered infestations of Horehound and Black Nightshade were also present at this site, and the site has depauperate understorey due to livestock grazing.

Flora site J Flora Site J is located in an isolated scrub block of approximately 6.5 ha which is dominated by Yorrell (E. gracilis)/Boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica) low open woodland. The understorey is characterised by a sparse cover of typically unpalatable low shrubs including Twinleaf (Zygophyllum aurantiacum) and Grey Bindyi (Sclerolaena diacantha) with a dense cover of Speargrass (Plate B-15, Appendix B). Areas of Saffron Thistle (Carthamus lanatus) were recorded and the site was highly disturbed with numerous tracks, a rubbish dump and a borrow pit on the site. Some larger trees with hollows are present at this site.

5.3.1 Species richness A total of 145 flora species, 107 native and 38 introduced, were recorded during the survey of the study area (Appendix C). The most diverse community was found to be associated with the deeper sand soils of the low dunes (e.g. Site 4). Sixty-two (62) species recorded during the survey had not previously been recorded within the Warramboo area previously (Appendix C), although they are all known to occur in the wider Eyre Peninsula region (DEH 2002). A BDBSA search (2011) provided an additional 184 species known to occur within the wider surrounds of the EL but not located at the survey sites within the ML.

5.4 Vegetation condition assessment Vegetation condition across the study area is heavily influenced by significant historical clearance and agricultural practices within the broader region and immediately adjacent to or completely surrounding each patch of native vegetation. In some instances, further flow on or indirect impacts apparently as a result of elevated saline water tables, past clearance and or grazing are evident. Vegetation condition in general varied considerably with size and location of the remnant patch. Sites 1, 2 and 3 (all sites within HA 869) were in reasonable condition (and were selected because they represented the best condition vegetation of that type) but all exhibited some indications of previous disturbance, with evidence of even age class (indicating past

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clearance events), some weeds and grazing pressure. Marked variation can be seen in condition (and therefore commensurate offset required for clearance) across the larger HA 869 with some patches of very poor condition; i.e. completely devoid of groundcover or lower strata vegetation and apparently transitioning to more salt tolerant communities. Plate 5-1 and Plate 5-2 demonstrate some of the variation in condition across sites. The average condition of roadside blocks (i.e. most of Sites A-J) was relatively poor. These sites were often long and thin with high edge effects and significant influence from adjacent land uses (e.g. herbicide use, weeds, dust, roadside drainage cuttings, rubbish, grazing).

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NE Corner of HA area, adjacent Site 1 NE Corner of HA area, 200m SE of Site 1

Adjacent site 4, (salinisation) Adjacent site 4, (salinisation)

Plate 5-1 Habitat condition variation within native vegetation patches of the study area (site 1 & 4)

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SW and SE Corner of HA area, adjacent site 3 SW and SE Corner of HA area, adjacent site 2

Adjacent site 5 (salinisation and woodland dieback)

Plate 5-2 Habitat condition variation within native vegetation patches of the study area (site 2, 3 & 5)

Most degradation was observed within the understorey layer at each site, with herbaceous and grassy weeds comprising the majority of introduced species found, and a reduced diversity in particularly the understorey and shrubstorey layers. Site 5 in particular represented indirect degradation as a result of regional land use and rising water table. This site had apparently transitioned over a short period of time from Melalueca woodland into a salt tolerant samphire plain, evidenced by the dead trunks of woodland trees across the site. Vegetation observed throughout the study area was generally mature regrowth (evidenced by uniform age classes) with only limited recruitment observed.

5.4.1 Disturbance levels Clearance of vegetation and the resultant fragmentation of remnant vegetation has been the most significant disturbance to the remaining native vegetation in the study area. Apart from several small patches of Mallee, Southern Cypress Pine and Boree, almost all of the remaining vegetation is regrowth from previous clearance.

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This means that there is very little old growth vegetation and consequently few large trees with hollows which present optimal nesting habitat for fauna (birds, bats and mammals).

Weeds often dominate the understorey in patches that are small and narrow (i.e. higher edge effects such as in roadsides) and in those areas that are open to grazing by livestock in periods between cropping (the major agricultural operation in this area). Despite the disturbance, weeds invasion is relatively low in Sites 1-4. Sites 1, 4 and 5 which are subject to a rising salt table, show strong evidence of a transitioning vegetation community. Site 5 appears the most impacted by elevated saline groundwater, and was the weediest with 39% exotic species.

Most degradation was observed within the understorey layer at each site but it is noted as being highly variable across the study area. Some sites (e.g. 3, 4, F) had a relatively diverse mid-shrub layer with little evidence of tracks, rubbish, grazing and other common forms of disturbance. Other sites had a highly disturbed and depauperate understorey structure (e.g. Site E & I). The majority of weeds were herbaceous and grassy forms found in the understorey. Little evidence of natural recruitment (i.e. seedlings, saplings) was found.

The Eyre Peninsula Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual (Milne et al. 2008) includes high level condition indicators which can be used to benchmark the condition of vegetation communities. Broadly, the indicators for the EP community types in the study area indicated that species diversity and weed presence of sites surveyed were representative of a range of conditions: sites A, B, C, D, E, G, H and J are poor, site I is moderate, sites 1,2, and 5 are good, and sites 3 and 4 are excellent ).

5.4.2 Weeds A summary of the weeds recorded in the study area is provided in Table 5-4 below. Twenty seven species were recorded during the survey. Additional details regarding previous records for these species are also summarised. The two weeds that were predicted to occur in the study area (EPBC PMST) were observed during the study, Bridal Creeper and Ward’s Weed.

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Table 5-4 Summary of weed presence (field results and historical records)

Species Name Common Name BDBSA Records/EPBC PMST2/Field Comment1 Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel No BDBSA records. Recorded site four3 Aggressive, WT1 Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed No BDBSA records. Recorded site five3 Aggressive, WT2 Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper PMST likely to occur, no BDBSA record, recorded at Very aggressive, site A3 SA/EP Declared, WoNS, WT5 Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed Records2 within 5 km (1992), recent record 2008 (11 WT2, not declared for km from mine site). Also recorded3 site D, G, E. EP Avena fatua Wild Oat No BDBSA record. Recorded sites five, A,E,F,G,I3. Aggressive, WT2 Brassica juncea Indian mustard No BDBSA record. Recorded site five3. WT2 Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip Records within 5km (1992). Recorded sites3 3-5, A-E, Aggressive, WT2 H-I. Bromus diandrus Great brome No BDBSA record. Recorded site F3. Aggressive, WT2 Bromus rubens Red Brome Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded site I3. Aggressive, WT1 Carrichtera annua Ward’s Weed PMST may occur, no BDBSA record. Recorded site A, F, Non-aggressive WT1 I3. Carthamus lanatus Saffron thistle No BDBSA record. Recorded site I Aggressive, WT2 Cyperus rotundus Nutgrass No BDBSA record. Recorded site I3. WT1 Euphorbia terracina False Caper No records within 5 km. Recorded site E3. Aggressive, Declared SA/EP, WT3 Hordeum leporinum Wall Barley-grass No BDBSA record. Recorded sites five, E, H, J WT1 Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded site four, I3. WT1 Lolium rigidum Wimmera Ryegrass Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded sites five, C, D, Aggressive, WT2 E, G, H, I3. No BDBSA record. Recorded sites five, E, F, G, I3. Aggressive, WT4, Marrubium vulgare Horehound Declared SA/EP Medicago littoralis No BDBSA record. Recorded sites five, B, F, J3. Aggressive, WT2 Mesembryanthemum Common Iceplant Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded site five, I. J3. Aggressive, WT2 crystallinum Mesembryanthemum Slender Iceplant Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded site one, Aggressive, WT2 nodiflorum four,five3. Minuartia mediterranea Slender Sandwort No records within 5 km. Record 19 km away (2000). WT1 Recorded site five3. Salvia verbenaca Wild Sage No BDBSA record. Recorded site E, F, G3. Aggressive, WT2 Sisymbrium officinale No BDBSA record. Recorded site F, I, J. Agggressive, WT1 Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Records within 5 km (1975). Recorded site five, I3. Aggressive, WT2 Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow- Records within 5 km (1999). Recorded site 1, 4, 5, F, I, WT1 thistle J. Trifolium arvense var. No BDBSA record. Recorded site 53. Aggressive, WT2 Hare's-foot Clover arvense Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue No BDBSA record. Recorded site 53 Aggressive, WT2 1 Declared status as per Natural Resources Management Act 2004; Aggressiveness as per Appendix 4, DWLBC 2005; WT1-5 = Weed Threat 1 to 5, where 1 is low threat and 3-5 are Red Alert Weed (page 233 of Milne 2008; BushRAT manual 2013, Appendix 6 for EP region S. Croft and T. Milne pers com.);2 Biological Database South Australia (record within study area and 5km) and EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool prediction; 3 Field result 2011 – this study.

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5.4.3 Environmental offset ratios The Native Vegetation Act provides several principles guiding the clearance of native vegetation in South Australia. An underlying assumption of the clearance principles is that an environmental offset will be undertaken which is commensurate with the amount and condition of vegetation to be cleared. DWLBC (2005) provide a guideline to determine a ratio of clearance area to offset area based upon high level condition indicators, where a ratio of 10:1 is required for clearance of pristine remnant vegetation, and a ratio of 2:1 is required for clearance of highly degraded native vegetation. Milne et al. (2008) also describes a series of condition indicators for 14 key vegetation communities on the Eyre Peninsula, which enables benchmarking for condition of vegetation communities ranging from very poor to excellent. Based on the NVC principles, the offset guideline, the documented benchmarks and the field assessment of vegetation condition at the survey sites, offset ratios have been allocated for the survey sites as summarised in Table 5-5.

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Table 5-5 Initial offset ratios for survey sites

Vegetation Condition Indicators Initial Survey Site Offset Ratio1 1 Located within a Heritage Agreement area (HA 869). Relatively free of weed infestations; 6:1 one aggressive weed (Fescue), no declared weeds. Recent grazing levels low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs. Large-fruit Crassula recorded (rare under NPW Act). Subject to a rising salt table, and showing strong evidence of a transitioning vegetation community in immediately adjacent areas. Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. 2 Located within a Heritage Agreement area (HA 869). Completely free of weed infestations. 8:1 Recent grazing levels low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs. Some evidence of disturbance (regrowth mallee) but relatively intact soils crust and leaf litter. Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. 3 Located within a Heritage Agreement area (HA 869). Relatively free of weed infestations 8:1 apart from scattered small patches of one aggressive sp. (Wild Turnip), no declared weeds. Recent grazing levels low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs. Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. 4 Relatively free of weed infestations; small scattered patches of two aggressive weeds 8:1 (Wild Turnip and Pimpernel), no declared weeds Recent grazing levels low with light kangaroo browsing of palatable shrubs. Large-fruit Crassula recorded (rare under NPW Act). Subject to a rising salt table, and showing strong evidence of a transitioning vegetation community on the lower slopes. Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. 5 Highly disturbed with two abandoned exploratory mine shafts and a two-wheel track. 4:1 Dense patches one aggressive weed (Ice Plant) and moderate infestations of 10 other aggressive weeds including Declared False Caper and Horehound. Subject to a rising salt table, and showing strong evidence of a transitioning vegetation community with extensive recent die off of woodland. Total grazing pressure at the site low with no evidence of recent rabbit grazing. Large-fruit Crassula recorded (rare under NPW Act). Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. A Disturbed thin roadside remnant strip with little connectivity and depauperate 4:1 understorey. Prevalent with one non-aggressive weed (Ward’s Weed) and one aggressive weed (Wild Turnip), and with a few plants of one declared and very aggressive weed (Bridal Creeper). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. B Remnant scrub block of approximately 5 ha on a narrow dune crest. Regrowth Mallee with 6:1 two common aggressive weeds (Wild Turnip, Fescue) but no declared weeds. Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. C Thin strip of regrowth Mallee, moderately grazed and common with two aggressive weeds 6:1 (Wild Turnip, Rye Grass). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. D Remnant scrub block of approximately 29 ha with regrowth Mallee and highly modified 5:1 understorey dominated by unpalatable species. Common weeds include Onion Weed and two aggressive weeds (Wild Turnip, Rye Grass). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. E Remnant scrub block of approximately 1.5 ha on the corner of Nantuma and Dolphin 4:1 Roads. Depauperate understorey that has been subject to grazing with 6 aggressive weeds including one declared species (Horehound). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. F Thin strip of roadside vegetation with relatively intact understorey and overstorey with 6:1 mixed-age stands. Patchy cover of eight weeds including 6 aggressive weeds, one of which is declared (Horehound). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. G Thin strip of roadside vegetation with depauperate understorey of short lived perennials. 6:1 Weeds common around roadwork, including four aggressive species one of which is declared (Horehound). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping.

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Vegetation Condition Indicators Initial Survey Site Offset Ratio1 H Located in a sizable scrub block, regrowth Mallee with reasonably intact understorey. 6:1 Rubbish dump located in the south of the scrub block. Weeds sparse but including two aggressive species (Wild Turnip, Wimmera Ryegrass). Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. I Located in an isolated scrub block of approx. 7 ha. Open woodland with sparse shrub layer 4:1 and depauperate understorey that has been subject to grazing. Ten (10) aggressive weed species with scattered infestations throughout, one of which is declared (Horehound). Surrounded by cleared land used for cereal cropping. J An isolated scrub block of approx. 6.5 ha. Understorey with sparse cover of typically 4:1 unpalatable low shrubs. Weeds include 4 aggressive species (Saffron Thistle, Mustard, Common Iceplant, Fescue). Highly disturbed with numerous tracks, a rubbish dump and a borrow pit. Bordered by cleared land used for cereal cropping. 1 Initial offset ratios as per Table 1 (DWLBC 2005) based on benchmarking and field survey results

The determination provided above is based on a rapid assessment of key biological features at each site. It is an indication of the offset ratio applicable to the habitat as observed in spring 2011. The final decision on offset ratios rests with the Native Vegetation Council (NVC) or DMITRE as their delegate for mining proposals during approval of vegetation clearance. All the assessed patches were predominately odd shaped or thin, isolated remnants of varying quality. This is particularly relevant for HA869 which varied from 8:1 to 6:1 at surveyed sites, but probably down to 0:1 where there is bare ground and saline intrusion at the surface. The values provided currently represent a conservative (worst case) scenario of clearance and commensurate SEB offsets.

Note that if Iron Road chose to undertake onsite ecological restoration activities to achieve a SEB, then the initial SEB ratio will be reduced by half as outlined by DWLBC (2005). If the works cannot be undertaken on site (e.g. due to open void excavation) but can still be undertaken off-site within the region and to satisfy specific criteria (e.g. reinstatment of threatened plants or habitat for threatened species), then the SEB ratio may also be reduced by 50 % in recognition of this effort. Mitigation strategies will be assessed by the NVC or their delegate on a case-by-case basis (DWLBC 2005).

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5.5 Fauna survey The well documented and broadly accepted DEH (2000) vertebrate survey guidelines, which suggest four trapping nights, were employed for this survey. This method was considered to provide sufficient trapping effort for the purposes of documenting key faunal assemblages across the study area. It is however noted that a study assessing survey effort by Read and Moseby (2001) suggests that within South Australian arid zones, the most efficient number of traps nights for maximizing the number of reptile species captured is five nights. The study also suggests that the standard 4 night trapping method will fail to detect some rare species of mammals or those that are difficult to trap (Read and Moseby 2001). Regardless, our survey effort was considered sufficient to document key faunal assemblages within each habitat type investigated.

During this survey, pit fall trapping proved to be the most successful means of capturing fauna, accounting for 42% of captures (9 of a total 21 captures). Elliott traps contributed the next highest with 30% of captures (7 of a total 21), with cage traps having the least effectiveness with only 28% of total captures (6 of 21 total). The Anabat Recorder, while not physically capturing animals, recorded a total of 15 clear vocalizations that could be characterised across the three sites (2, 3 and 4).

5.5.1 Fauna The fauna survey identified a total of 77 vertebrate species from the 5 survey sites and opportunistically within the study area. Of these 77 species, 41 are new records not previously recorded by the BDBSA in the EL, but all of which are relatively common throughout the greater Eyre Peninsula. The vertebrate species identified in the study area are summarised below:

• 59 birds • 8 reptiles • 0 amphibians • 10 mammals (including 2 bats)

Only 5 of the 77 species of fauna (6.5%), all birds, hold conservation significance at a national or state level.

The following sections provide detail on each faunal group identified including summary tables of species. Appendix D presents a comprehensive list of all fauna found at the site, including BDBSA records of species recorded within the Warramboo EL area. The origins of records presented by Appendix D are clearly attributed to survey sites, opportunistic and or BDBSA.

Birds A total of 59 birds were observed during the survey (Table 5-5) including 3 introduced and 56 native species. Site 3 had the greatest diversity of birds with 30 species recorded, while site 1 had the lowest diversity at 22 species.

Of these 59, only one species has conservation significance under national (EPBC Act); the Rainbow Bee-eater (M. ornatus) is listed as Migratory Marine and Listed Marine. The Rainbow Bee-eater is a transitory bird that moves between various habitats across the whole of Australia, and has been recorded migrating as far north as the southern Ryuku Islands in Japan (DSWEPC 2012f). In this study, it was observed at Site 2 and opportunistically in the greater study area.

In addition, four (4) birds that are considered rare by State legislation (NP&W Act) were also recorded, including:

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• Gilbert's Whistler (Pachycephala inornata), Commonly at Site 2 and Site 3 • Restless Flycatcher (Myiagra inquieta), Site 3 • White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos), Site 5 • Slender-billed Thornbill - western subspecies (A. iredalei iredalei), Site 2 and Site 3 (Delisted from EPBC Act, Vulnerable rating, in 2014)

A complete bird list from the study area is provided in Appendix D including BDBSA records from the broader Warramboo EL area. Twenty-seven (27) of the 59 birds have not previously been recorded in the study area by the BDBSA, but are known from the wider Eyre Peninsula region. The BDBSA search indicated a further 6 species not recorded by the survey as present (at least historically). Five (5) of the 6 additional BDBSA species are common throughout a variety of habitats in the semi-arid regions of Southern Australia. The sixth species is the Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata), which is rated vulnerable under both state and national legislation. A substantial amount of active searching was undertaken for Malleefowl or evidence of Malleefowl (active, dis- used, or abandoned mounds) in habitat considered to be suitable for Malleefowl across the field study area. No evidence of Malleefowl was found, and no vegetation patches appeared to support the level of litter cover required to support foraging and nest building of Malleefowl.

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Table 5-6 Birds recorded by site

1 EPBC Act NPW Act Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp Status2 Status3 Australasian Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae x - - Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen x x - - Australian Owlet- Aegotheles cristatus nightjar x - - Australian Ringneck Barnardius zonarius x x x x - - Black-faced Cuckoo- Coracina shrike novaehollandiae x x - - Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris x x - - Brown Falcon Falco berigora x x - - Brown Songlark Cincloramphus cruralis x x x x x - - Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulates x x - - Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus x x - - Common Blackbird* Turdus merula x x x - - Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera x x x x - - Common Starling* Sturnus vulgaris x - - Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes x x - - Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus x x x - - Galah Eolophus roseicapilla x x x x x - - Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus x x x x x x - - Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor x x x - - Grey Fantail Rhipidura albiscapa x - - Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica x x x x x - - Honeyeater, Brown- Melithreptus brevirostris headed x - -

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1 EPBC Act NPW Act Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp Status2 Status3 Honeyeater, Singing Lichenostomus virescens x x x - - Honeyeater, Spiny- Acanthagenys cheeked rufogularis x x x - - Honeyeater, White- Lichenostomus leucotis eared x x x - - Honeyeater, White- Purnella albifrons fronted x - - Honeyeater, Yellow- Lichenostomus ornatus plumed x x - - House Sparrow* Passer domesticus x - - Jacky Winter Microeca fascinans x x x x - - Little Raven Corvus mellori x x x x - - Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca x x x - - Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles x - - Mulga Parrot Psephotus varius x x x x - - Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides x - - Pardalote, Spotted Pardalotus punctatus x x x x x - - Pardalote, Striated Pardalotus striatus x - - Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus x x MT, LM - Anthochaera Red Wattlebird carunculata x - - Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta x - R Cincloramphus Rufous Songlark mathewsi x - - Rufous Treecreeper Climacteris rufus x x x - - Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis x - - Stubble Quail Coturnix pectoralis x x - - Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides x - - Thornbill, Inland Acanthiza apicalis x x x x x - - E-F-34-RPT-0003_1 (Mine Site Ecological Survey).docx 31 July 2014 53

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1 EPBC Act NPW Act Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp Status2 Status3 Thornbill, Slender-billed Acanthiza iredalei (west) iredalei x x 4 R Thornbill, Yellow- Acanthiza chrysorrhoa rumped x x x x x - - Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans x - - Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris x x - - Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena x - - Western Yellow Robin Eopsaltria griseogularis x x x - - Whistler, Gilbert's Pachycephala inornata x x - R Whistler, Rufous Pachycephala rufiventris x x x - - Pomatostomus White-browed Babbler superciliosus x x x x - - White-browed Climacteris affinis Treecreeper superciliosa x x - - White-fronted Chat Epthianura albifrons x x x - - Corcorax White-winged Chough melanorhamphos x x - R White-winged Triller Lalage tricolor x x - - Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys x x x x x - - Yellow-throated Miner Manorina flavigula x x x x - - TOTAL SPECIES: 22 27 30 27 20 25 2 4 1 Opp = opportunistic sighting; 2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Status: Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), Migratory Terrestrial (MT), Listed Marine (LM), Extinct (EX) 3 South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPWA) Status: R, Rare; V, Vulnerable; E, Endangered. * Introduced species 4 Delisted from the EPBC Act in 2014, was highlighted in EPBC PMST in 2013.

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Figure 5-1 shows that over the course of the survey period the number of new bird records per day was high within the first two to three days, but declines over the last two days where only one additional species was recorded. This would suggest that the majority of bird species present at site during the survey period had been recorded over the duration of the survey, and that further survey effort across the study site would yield low numbers of additional new species.

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Cumulative No. of Birds Recorded Recorded Birds of No. Cumulative day 1 / night 2 night 1 / day 3 night 2 / day 4 night 3 / day traps in / night 1 night / in traps day 5 / traps out traps 5 / day

October 2011 Figure 5-1 Cumulative number of bird species recorded over survey

Reptiles Eight (8) reptile species were recorded during the survey, including skinks, a dragon, a gecko and a snake (Table 5-7). Site 1 and Site 4 had the greatest diversity of retiles with four species each, while Site 5 had the least diversity with no reptiles recorded. All reptile species recorded were native, and none hold any conservation significance under state or national legislation.

Table 5-7 Reptiles observed by site

Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp1 Dwarf Bearded Dragon Pogona minor X X Desert Whipsnake Demansia reticulata X X Five-lined Earless Dragon Tympanocryptis lineata X X Sleepy Lizard Tiliqua rugosa X X X X Southern Spinifex Ctenotus Ctenotus atlas X Starred Knob-tailed Gecko Nephrurus stellatus X X X X Western Bluetongue Tiliqua occipitalis X X Western Brown Snake Pseudonaja nuchalis (NC)2 X TOTAL SPECIES 4 2 3 4 0 5 1 Opp. = opportunistic sighting; 2 Species range overlap, could be either Pseudonaja inframacula (Peninsula Brown Snake) or Pseudonaja affinis (Dugite) (M. Hutchinson pers. com).

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A complete reptile list from the study area is provided in Appendix D, including BDBSA records from within the Warramboo EL. Seven (7) of the eight reptiles recorded in the study area have not previously been recorded in the study area by the BDBSA, but are known from the wider Eyre Peninsula region. One species, the Desert Whipsnake, has previously been recorded by the BDBSA. The BDBSA search indicated one additional species not recorded by the survey as being present (at least historically), the Barking Gecko (Nephrurus milii). This species is common throughout arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Australia. Overall, reptile species richness was low compared to what would be expected for grassy woodland and mallee communities in reasonable condition, and given the various trapping methods employed and the weather conditions experienced (Moseby and Read 2001, Wilson and Swan 2008). Refer Section 5.6.3 for further discussion on species richness.

Figure 5-2 shows that over the course of the survey period the number of new reptile records per day was relatively constant across the survey, tapering off with no additional new species on the last day. It is possible that with an extended survey period, additional species may have been detected. However even at this low rate of detection (2-3 new species per day), a survey double the length would still produce seemingly low reptile species richness overall for the habitat types and conditions encountered.

9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Cumulative No. of Reptiles Recorded Reptiles of No. Cumulative day 1day /2 night 2day /3 night 3day /4 night traps in / night 1 day day 5 / traps out October 2011

Figure 5-2 Cumulative number of reptile species recorded over survey

Mammals A total of ten mammals including two bats were recorded in the study area. An opportunistic observation of a scat possibly belonging to a Feral Cat (Felis catus) provides a 10th mammal (unconfirmed). Of these 10 mammals, 4 are introduced and 6 are native (Table 5-8). None of mammals are of conservation significance under state or national legislation. The highest mammal diversity was recorded at Site 4 with a total of five species, while Site 1 recorded the lowest mammal diversity with only one species recorded.

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Table 5-8 Mammals observed by site

Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp1 Cat (Feral Cat) * Felis catus ? European Rabbit * Oryctolagus cuniculus X European Red Fox * Vulpes vulpes ? X X X X Gould's Wattled Bat Chalinolobus gouldii X House Mouse * Mus musculus X X Mitchell's Hopping- X mouse Notomys mitchellii Red Kangaroo Macropus rufus X Southern Forest Bat Vespadelus regulus X X X Southern Hairy-nosed X X Wombat Lasiorhinus latifrons Western Grey Kangaroo Macropus fuliginosus X X X X TOTAL SPECIES: 10 1 4 3 5 2 4 1 Opp. = opportunistic sighting *Introduced species

Appendix D provides a complete list of mammals for the study area, including BDBSA records from the broader Iron Road EL. Three of the 10 mammals have been previously documented for the broader EL by the BDBSA, but are no records within 5 km of the ML for any of these mammals.

The BDBSA data also indicate a further 2 species not recorded by the survey as being historically present in the broader study area (at least historically), including the Greater Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus timoriensis) and Fat-tailed Dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). The Fat-tailed Dunnart is common throughout arid and semi- arid regions of Southern Australia and has been associated with the clay loams and low shrublands of the Talia Hills Bioregion (Brandle 2010). There are BDBSA records for the Fat-tailed Dunnart within 5 km of the ML, from the 1960s. The Greater Long-eared Bat has recently had taxonomic review, Nyctophilus timoriensis is now known as N. corbeni (has EPBC rating) or Nyctophilus sp 2, with distribution centralised around the Murray- Darling Basin (distant from the study area) (Churchill 2008). Historic BDBSA records are not within 5 km of the mine site, but were within the original broader EL search area. The last EP record is from 1984 (14 km away) and there are regional records from 2003, 40 km away (Darke Peak and Carapee Hill CP), but it is unlikely to be the rated species.

Most of the mammal species anticipated to be present at site were either detected during survey or have been previously detected in the region (i.e. BDBSA, Brandle 2010). Significant impacts from introduced mammals were not immediately obvious, with only scats and tracks observed indicated a relatively low active population of European Rabbit, a few European Foxes and possibly a Feral Cat. No direct sightings of any introduced mammal were made during the survey. However field staff observed adult foxes and fox pups during surveys in the area for other components of the study (e.g. SKM Infrastructure Corridor survey 2011). The number of new mammal records over the course of the survey was high for the first two days, and declined over the last three days where only one additional species was recorded (Figure 5-3). This would suggest that the majority of mammal species present at site had been recorded over the duration of the survey, and that further survey effort across the site would yield low numbers of additional new species.

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10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Cumulative No. of Mammals Recorded Recorded Mammals of No. Cumulative day 1day /2 night 2day /3 night 3day /4 night traps in / night 1 day day 5 / traps out

October 2011

Figure 5-3 Cumulative number of mammal species recorded over survey

Other fauna No amphibians were recorded during the survey with weather conditions being unsuitable for frog sightings during this time. The BDBSA search also does not provide any frog species for the study area. Insects were not considered by this survey.

5.5.2 Fauna diversity across broad habitat types Overall fauna species diversity by survey site is presented by Table 5-9 and Figure 5-4. Site 3 and Site 4 had the highest diversity of fauna (31 and 32 species respectively), unsurprisingly supported by the greatest diversity of plants (Site 3 with 69 plant species, Site 4 with 88 plant species). Site 5 had the lowest diversity of fauna supported by a moderate diversity of plants. However Site 5 was also found to support the highest percentage of weeds and showed the highest level of impact as a result of agricultural land use, with quite obvious signs of impacts from a rising saline water table, evidenced by dead woodland trees, surficial salt scarring and salt tolerant plants communities.

Table 5-9 Species diversity by site

Total Species Site Broad Habitat Type Birds Reptiles Mammals Plants Total 1 Mixed Mallee low open woodland with patches of tall open 17 4 1 37 59 shrubland and low open shrubland 2 Mixed Mallee and Boree (M. pauperiflora ssp. mutica) low 22 2 4 25 53 open woodland with low very open shrubland 3 Mixed Mallee low open woodland with patches of tall open 25 3 3 38 69 shrubland and low open shrubland 4 Mixed Mallee low open woodland with open shrubland and 23 4 5 57 89 Spinifex hummock grassland 5 Boree (M. pauperiflora) low open woodland with Samphire 15 0 2 42 59 low open shrubland

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35

30

25

20 mammals 15 reptiles birds 10 Total Number of Species Recorded Species of Number Total 5

0 1 2 3 4 5 Survey Site

Figure 5-4 Cumulative fauna by site

5.5.3 Fauna species richness Bird species richness was generally low but commensurate with what would be expected for a study area that is predominantly cleared and disturbed with agriculture, and amongst which only a small proportion (native vegetation covers 12% of proposed ML, DEH 2004) of fragmented native regrowth persists (Doherty 1998). Most bird groups were represented, although some such as the raptors (three species) and robins (one species) were poorly represented perhaps indicating a lack of suitable habitat, a lack of suitably sized habitat and or a lack of food resources for these bird groups. With regard to bird species richness, it is also worth noting the presence of a water bird (straw-necked ibis) which would have been associated with the wetland environment of the Warramboo Salt Lake Complex. Whilst the survey team did not record any other water bird species, it is anticipated that more would be present in times of higher rainfall (i.e. winter) when more water may collect and be standing in these salt pans.

Bat species richness was relatively low for what would usually be expected for Mallee or grassy woodland habitat, with the notable absence of Nyctophilus (Long-eared Bats) and Mormopterus (Freetail Bats) families and Tadarida australia (White-striped Freetail Bat). BDBSA records indicate that at least one species of Nyctophilus, the Greater Long-eared Bat (N. Timoriensis), is present in the region, however given the recent taxonomic review around this species, records are likely to be for a more common Nyctophilus sp.. In a related study, Lumsden and Bennett (1995) note that of the 4 different semi-arid habitat types in which trapping was conducted in, Mallee Shrubland had the lowest mean number of species per successful trapping event. Despite this, Lumbsden and Bennett (1995) still recorded seven different taxa in similar habitats within the Victorian Mallee region, a far greater number than the two taxa recorded here. The low number of bats recorded during

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this study is consistent with the presence of limited nesting habitat. The majority of habitat present comprised nearly all regrowth with limited old growth sections and limited or no hollows as is usually found in old mallee stands.

Mammal richness was around what would be expected for an agriculturally dominated landscape, including a usual mix of native and introduced species (Menkhorst and Bennett 1990). Dunnarts were perhaps the only notable mammal absence, and would usually be anticipated, particularly with areas of Spinifex and sandy dune crests found in the region. The BDBSA indicated that one species of Sminthopsis, the Fat-tailed Dunnart (S. crassicaudata), has previously been recorded in the region. Fat-tailed Dunnarts were aslo recorded in the EP Biological Survey and found to be associated with the Talia subregion (Brandle 2010). Dunnarts often prefer older Spinifex meaning that inappropriate fire regimes are often thought to influence dunnart abundance and diversity (Menkhorst and Knight 2001). It appears that the sitesin the current study area have not been burnt for at least ten years. Absence of small native mammals in the study area is likely to be a result limited presence of old growth remnants (two sites were regrowth), a lack of connectivity with native patches or inadequate patches size meaning greater predatory pressure from foxes and cats.

Reptile species richness was the poorest of all faunal groups. Reptile richness is usually high for mallee habitat types particularly where there is leaf and bark litter build-up and a reasonable shrub storey or ground cover (DEH 2002, Moseby and Read 2001). Climatic conditions during the survey were conducive to high reptile activity and expected capture rates, being relatively sunny, warm and fine. Conditions also appeared suitable at individual sites, with sufficient structural complexity in most layers and with some areas of leaf litter build-up. Reptile diversity was still poor, with notable absences of smaller reptiles such as Sliders (Lerista), Menetia greyii and Hemiergis spp., and also larger species such as the Sand Goanna (Varanus gouldii). The isolated and fragmented nature of the agricultural landscape landscape was thought to be the main contributor to the lack of reptile diversity.

Williams et al. (2011) note two important factors influencing species diversity in mallee fragments in an agricultural landscape in a study conducted on the Eyre Penninsula; distance from conservation parks (i.e. areas that provide dispersing reptiles to patches within farmland) and quality of habitat (i.e. improved condition may also improve connectivity and increase available habitat for some species). The nearest conservation park is Hambidge WA, which is 12 km from the nearest fauna trapping site (Site 2). Interestingly, Williams et al. (2011) also note that corridor connections (e.g. by roadside remnants) by themselves may not be sufficient to provide a dispersal corridor for all reptiles, and that some reptile species may remain isolated in patches even with corridor connectivity.

In summary, major factors influencing vertebrate species richness in the study area may include:

• Habitat fragmentation and isolation • Habitat disturbance • Lack of habitat connectivity • Size and shape of habitat patches and associated edge effects of predators • Age and complexity of native vegetation within patches (i.e. regrowth rather than remnant old growth, indicating vegetation has previously been cleared) • Proximity to conservation parks and sources of dispersing species

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6 Conservation significance Native vegetation is scattered throughout the study area but only as discrete and isolated patches within cleared private land, as well as along roadsides. Only three of these vegetation patches (e.g. Sites 1, 2 & 3) form part of a large patch (260 Ha) and are afforded formal protection by Heritage Agreement (HA869). The average patch size (excluding HA869) varies from as large as 48 ha (Site 4) to as small as 1.5 ha (Site E).

Much of the native habitat is subject to some form of degradation, and often multiple causes of degradation. Degradation of native habitat is predominantly the result of historic clearance and fragmentation of remaining habitat, and subsequent invasion by weeds, apparent regional elevation of a saline groundwater table, evidenced by salt scarring and transitioning ecological communities, predators and grazers. Weeds are more predominant in patches that are small and narrow (i.e. higher edge effects such as in roadsides) and in areas that are open to grazing by livestock in periods between cropping. In contrast, those sites which form part of larger remnants (e.g. 30 ha and above) tend to be more structurally intact, support fewer weeds, and retain diversity of native flora and fauna.

Apart from several small patches of Mallee, Southern Cypress Pine and Boree, almost all of the remaining vegetation is regrowth from previous clearance. This means that there is very little old growth vegetation and consequently few large trees with hollows, and habitat structural complexity is reduced. Regrowth vegetation and or vegetation that is disturbed in some other way is less likely to provide suitable habitat for species of conservation significance (Doherty 1998).

6.1 Significant species summary Twenty eight species of conservation significance are considered here. Of these 28 species, 12 are considered unlikely to occur within the study site and 10 have potential to occur or may occur rarely as a visitor. None of these 22 species were recorded during the fauna survey. See Section 6.1.1 and 6.1.2 for justification of likelihood of occurrence.

Six species of conservation significance were recorded in the study area during the field survey, including one plant and five birds. One bird is significant under national (EPBC Act) legislation; the Rainbow Bee-eater. The remaining five species including one plant and four birds are significant under State legislation only, which includes the recently delisted (EPBC Act) Slender-billed Thornbill.

Of the six conservation significant species recorded for the study area, three represent species that were not previously identified by the desktop assessment but are known from other locations or sightings on the Eyre Peninsula (EFSA 2012a, DEH 2002).

No significant impacts are anticipated at the population or species level for any of the flora and fauna identified in this study.

6.1.1 Species with low likelihood of occurrence Twelve conservation significant species identified by the desktop assessment, including 5 flora and 7 fauna, are considered unlikely to be found within the study area. Justification is provided below.

Significant flora unlikely to be present Five (5) flora identified by the desktop assessment and considered unlikely to be present in the study area are summarised in Table 6-1, including rationale for why they are considered unlikely to occur.

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Table 6-1 Likelihood of Occurrence – EPBC / NPW listed flora species considered unlikely to occur

Species Name Common Name EPBC Act NPW Act Why unlikely to occur No records4 within 5 km, most recent record (2004), 105 km from mine site. Priority 1 regional species5. Occurs within roadside reserves and rail reserves (near Cummins). Prefers a variety of subsoils and occurs with Acacia pinguifolia Fat-leaved Wattle EN E E. calycogona + E. Dumosa mallee woodland, Melaleuca uncinata tall shrubland and other plant associations in the study area5,6. Known populations on the EP occur south of Hincks CP more than 50 km from the study area16 Caladenia tensa Greencomb Spider- EN - Known from south-east South Australia, rather than orchid Eyre Peninsula1. Key threats include habitat fragmentation, clearance, grazing pressure. Taxonomic confusion in SA relating to C. tensa and C. clavula (not protected), with EP BDBSA records likely to be C. clavula1. No records4 within 5 km. Records from 1968- 2003 (25-78 km from study area), but likely C. clavula1. Also not considered in Pobke 2007. Calochilus pruinosus Plains Beard-orchid R Prefers intact, undisturbed stratum of various habitats (e.g. swamp margins to inland dunes under Mallee), but of very isolated occurrence2. Historic records4 (1962) within 1 km of study area. Most recent records4 (2001, 2003) from Hincks WA (64-73 km from study area). Unlikely to occur in degraded agricultural setting. Not observed in field study. Prasophyllum Goldsack’s Leek-orchid EN E Habitat preference: Eucalyptus cladocalyx woodlands goldsackii that support Leptospermum and Allocasuarina spp3. No E. cladocalyx woodland habitat in study area. 1 Todd 2000; 2 Black 1986; 3 DSEWPaC 2011a; 4 BDBSA (Biological Database of South Australia; 5 Pobke 2007; 6 Brandle 2010

Significant fauna unlikely to be present Seven fauna (5 birds, 2 mammals) highlighted by the desktop assessment, but considered unlikely to be present in the study area are summarised by Table 6-1. Justification for why they are considered unlikely to occur is also provided.

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Table 6-2 Likelihood of Occurrence – EPBC / NPW listed fauna species considered unlikely to occur

EPBC NPW Species Name Common Name Why unlikely to occur? Act Act Ardea modesta Great Egret MM, - Known to use a wide range of wetland habitats; inland MW, LM and coastal, freshwater and saline, permanent and ephemeral, open and vegetated, large and small, natural and artificial9,10. Suitable habitat is present north of the proposed ML (e.g. Lake Warramboo complex) but not within the proposed ML. May retreat to permanent wetlands or costal environments with the fluctuation of wet and dry seasons and with drought. While this species may be present as a transient through the site, it is not expected to be reliant upon the very small salt pans and salt lakes found there. The species is considered a wetland generalist, and is able to translocate to other wetland habitats in times of need. There are no records within 5 km of the ML for the species. There are two records 69-72 km from the site from 1991. Construction and operation of a mine site in the study area would have an insignificant impact on the Great Egret. Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl VU V Known to inhabit sandy dune/ mallee habitats throughout the EP6. Requires deep organic matter to build mounds for egg incubation (best provided by long unburnt remnants). Will also utilise habitat adjacent cropping areas, and feed on grain4. Key threats include clearance of remnants, habitat fragmentation, inappropriate fire regimes, predation and competition from feral mammals4. Higher densities of Malleefowl occur in White Mallee open scrub near Lock, and records are also for Ridge-fruited Mallee open scrub6. Targeted searches within the survey sites did not locate this species. Last record3 within 1-5 km of ML (1900), most recent records within EL > 12 km from ML (2006). Multiple BDBSA records in HA 370 (12-15km away 2003, 2005, 2006). Remaining vegetation in the study area is primarily on dune crests, rather than swales, therefore unsuitable for Malleefowl. If present, only as rare visitor. Pandion cristatus / P. Eastern Osprey /Osprey LM E Uses coastal habitats, including elevated coastal cliffs haliatus exposed sites and sea stacks5,6. No suitable nesting habitat observed during field assessments. No records within 5 km, last record3, for Pandion cristatus 11 km (Eastern EP 2009). Taxonomy of species is controversial4. Nyctophilus timoriensis Greater Long-eared Bat - V Species has had taxonomic review, Nyctophilus (now N. corbeni) (SE form – now known timoriensis is now known as N. corbeni (has EPBC rating) as ‘South-eastern Long- or Nyctophilus sp 2, with distribution centralised around eared Bat’) the Murray-Darling Basin (distant from study area)7. Form not specified within fauna records, but unlikely to be N. corbeni. No records within 5 km. Last record3 within EL (14 km from ML, 1984). Regional records from 2003, 40 km away (Darke Peak and Carapee Hill CP). Sminthopsis Sandhill Dunnart EN V Elusive species. Known primarily from four populations, psammophila in SA. Known to occupy low parallel dunes that support open woodland and diverse shrubbery, with large mature hummocks ofTriodia 2,6,8. Recently (2008)

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EPBC NPW Species Name Common Name Why unlikely to occur? Act Act populations studied on the Shirrocoe Pastoral Lease (SE Gawler Ranges), and suggestions that populations occur in Pinkawillinnie and Hincks CP6. Although, suitable habitat in Hambidge WPA. No suitable habitat of Triodia with older hummocks in ring formation within the study area. Remnant vegetation patches in the study area are also too small and isolated. No records within 5km of study area, closest historic record 13 km (1969), most recent BDBSA record from 2005 (62-65 km away in Hincks WA). Strepera versicolor ssp. Grey Currawong (NW - E Known to occupy range of habitat types, including plumbea subspecies) mallee, heath, and semi-desert habitats5,2. NW ssp. is thought to extend from SW Western Australia (S from Geraldton) E, discontinuously, to extreme SW Northern Territory (Petermann Ranges) and W South Australia (Musgrave and Everard Ranges, and Great Victoria Desert)5. Site is beyond known limit of extent4. No records within 5 km, closest records 10 km from Mine site (2001), most recent record (2006, 32 km away). Subspecies not specified within fauna records. It is likely that the records are for the subspecies with no formal legislative protection, which is Strepera versicolor intermedia Microeca fascinans ssp. Jacky Winter (SE - R The non-protected ‘assimillis’ ssp. is dominant in this fascinans subspecies) region and was observed by the survey team. The SE ssp. is more common to the eastern seaboard with strongholds in VIC / NSW5. No records within 5 km of ML, closest record is 12 km (2002), most recent record (2003, 32-53 km away). BDBSA records do not specify which ssp. is represented, but unlikely protected ssp. as beyond known limit of extent5. 1 DSEWPaC 2012a; 2 Marchant & Higgins 1990; 3 BDBSA; 4 Benshemesh 2005; 5 Simpson & Day 2004; 6 Brandle 2010; 7 Churchill 2008; 8 10 Menkhorst and Knight 2004; 9 SPRAT; DSEWPaC 2013c

6.1.2 Species possibly present Ten species highlighted by the desktop assessment have the potential to occur within the study area. This is based on location of historic BDBSA records, as well as habitat preferences, germination, feeding / shelter requirements or physical conditions found in the study area during field surveys. These ten species comprise six flora and four fauna. Justification for likelihood of occurrence and potential for impacts to each species is discussed below.

Significant flora possibly present Resin Wattle (Acacia rhetinocarpa) – Vulnerable (EPBC and NPW) Resin Wattle is broadly associated with mallee woodland, with species such as E. incrassata, E. leptophylla over Leptospermum coriacea, Melaleuca uncinata, Callitris verrucosa, Babingtoni behrii, Hibbertia australis and Glischrocaryon behrii. This species is known to occur in degraded roadside areas, and fire is thought to be important for regeneration (Pobke 2007). The small areas on Eyre Peninsula where Resin Wattle does grow in association with vegetation are classified as dune crest and dunes/hills, plains and swales; sand to clay loam; and sandy soils. This species is considered to be a ‘priority 2 regional species’ in threatened flora planning documents (Pobke 2007). This species is also known to occur in areas where rainfall is 250-250mm (Whibley and Symon 1992 cited in SPRAT). No BDBSA records occur within 5 km of the ML area, and the nearest historic

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record is 14.7 km from mine site (Hambidge WA, 1967). A search for the species within Hambidge WA was conducted in a 1995 survey, but it was not found again (Pobke 2007). The most recent BDBSA record (from 2001) is 99 km from the mine site. Recent conservation advice suggests that this species has fragmented distribution on the Eyre Peninsula, occurring between Streak Bay, Kimba and Arno Bay, but is also known from seven populations in that area (Pobke 2007 cited in Conservation Advice to Minister 17 Dec 2013). Although it is likely that remnant vegetation within the ML is too fragmented and disturbed, the potential for this species cannot be discounted, particularly given there are over 60 patches within the proposed ML that occur on areas classified as dune crest. In addition, a number of the common Eucalypt and Melaleuca species that occur with this species have been recorded in the study area and surrounds and the species is known to survive in degraded sites (e.g. at Arno Bay, Pobke 2007).

Known populations of this species do not occur within the ML, if individuals of this species are found to occur within the study area it is unlikely they would be part of a significant population. Therefore it is unlikely that construction and operation of a mine within the study area would significantly impact this species. If located seed could be collected for future revegetation aspects of the broader project.

Yellow Swainson-pea (Swainsona pyrophila) – Rare (NPW) and Vulnerable (EPBC) Yellow Swainson-pea is known to occur on a variety of soil types amongst Mallee vegetation communities (Pobke 2007). Historic distribution records have shown that its preferred habitat may be dominated by different Eucalypt species, including Eucalyptus brachycalyx, E. dumosa, E. calycogona, E. oleosa, E. incrassata and E. socialis (Tonkinson and Robertson 2010). Many of these Mallee species have been recorded within the study area. A BDBSA record exists for Yellow Swainson-pea (dated 19/9/2000) within 25 km of the study area.

Yellow Swainson-pea is known to germinate following fire events (as the name suggests) and information suggests that the species may live for up to two years following a germination-inducing fire event. Following senescence, seeds replenish the seed bank and can germinate after further suitable fire events. In addition to stimulation by fire, it is also thought that soil disturbance may directly enhance germination success. Anecdotal evidence suggests that maintenance of fire-breaks and roadside reserves may be sufficient to influence germination (Tonkinson and Robertson 2010).

Given the requirement of either a fire event, or soil disturbance, or both, for successful germination and subsequent growth of Yellow Swainson-pea, it may not be found in long-unburnt areas (as found within the survey area), or areas which have not been recently disturbed. This species may be present within the study area, as a seed or developed plant, if historic disturbance patterns have been suitable for germination and local survival of the species. It is noted that targeted survey for this species would have to coincide with an environmental event which would trigger germination.

Spiny Spear-grass (Austrostipa echinata) – Rare (NPW) Spiny Spear-grass is known to associate with open Mallee scrub usually in sandy soils with limestone, often within a community of Eucalyptus yalatensis, Melaleuca lanceolata ssp. lanceolata, Triodia spp., Gahnia spp. and Lomandra spp. (Jessop et. al. 2006). Many of the preferred habitat species are present within the study area, with the broader habitat type and soil conditions being common throughout central Eyre Peninsula (DEH 2002). Spiny Spear-grass may be found in similar habitat as for another species of conservation significance; Knotted Poa. There are two BDBSA records of the Spiny Spear-grass within the wider surrounds of EL4849, both from a Heritage Agreement west of Hambidge WA (dated 22/10/1998 and 22/10/1998) approximately south of the study area. Although it was not identified by the field survey, it may be present on site.

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If individuals of this species are found to occur within the study area it is unlikely they would be part of a significant population. Therefore it is unlikely that construction and operation of a mine within the study area would significantly impact this species. If located seed and / or vegetative matter could be collected for future revegetation aspects of the project.

Vickery’s Spear-grass (Austrostipa vickeryana) – Rare (NPW) Vickery’s Spear-grass is known to occupy saline areas of gypsum sands or limestone (Jessop et al. 2006). An interrogation of the BDBSA records for this species indicates it may also occur in disturbed areas around human built infrastructure; one record 1.1 km direct ESE of Warramboo in Warramboo Cemetery (close to study area, dated 11/10/1999), another 15 km south of the study site in a disturbed rail siding near Kopi (dated 10/10/2000). However, it is noted that Vickery’s Spear-grass has a very similar appearance to A. nullanulla and may be easily confused. Potential habitat for Vickery’s Spear-grass is present on site in and around the salt lakes, and although it was not identified by the field survey, it may be present on site.

If individuals of this species are found to occur within the study area it is unlikely they would be part of a significant population. Therefore it is unlikely that construction and operation of a mine within the study area would significantly impact this species. If located seed and / or vegetative matter could be collected for future revegetation aspects of the project.

Rasp Daisy-bush (Olearia picridifolia) – Rare (NPW) The Rasp Daisy-bush is described by Black (1986) as occurring mainly in open Mallee and heath on alkaline soils derived from limestone or low dunes. Historic distribution records have shown that it is not restricted to one type of Mallee, being found in association with Eucalyptus dumosa, E. Foecunda, E. gracilis, E. peninsularis, E. diversifolia and E. yalatensis (EFSA 2012a). Regional records also indicated a preference for a healthy understorey dominated by Melaleuca spp. and possibly in association with a grassy ground cover such as Gahnia or Triodia species.

The BDBSA has records for this species within 25 km of the study area and across the central Eyre Peninsula, from both conservation parks (e.g. Hambidge WA, Hincks CP) and private lands outside of conservation holdings. Mixed, open Mallee is commonly found growing in association with a Melaleuca shrub layer or grassy ground cover across the study area (e.g. Site 2, 3, 4). It is possible that the Rasp Daisy-bush is present in the study area, though not identified during the detailed vegetation surveys undertaken.

If individuals of this species are found to occur within the study area it is unlikely they would be part of a significant population. Therefore it is unlikely that construction and operation of a mine within the study area would significantly impact this species. If located seed could be collected for future revegetation aspects of the project.

Knotted Poa (Poa drummondiana) – Rare (NPW) Knotted Poa is known to occur on sand, sandy loam, dunes and amongst shrubland, commonly associated with Melaleuca lanceolata, Gahnia lanigera and Atriplex paludosa ssp. cordata (Jessop et al. 2006). Two of these habitat species are present within the study area, with the broader habitat type and soil conditions being common throughout central Eyre Peninsula (DEH 2002). Knotted Poa may be found in similar habitat as for another species of conservation significance; Spiny Spear-grass. There are two BDBSA records of the Knotted Poa within the larger Warramboo EL4849, both from a heritage agreement west of Hambidge WA (dated 22/10/1998 and 22/10/1998) approximately south of the study area. Although it was not identified by the field survey, it may be present on site.

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If individuals of this species are found to occur within the study area it is unlikely they would be part of a significant population. Therefore it is unlikely that construction and operation of a mine within the study area would significantly impact this species. If located seed and / or vegetative matter could be collected for future revegetation aspects of the project.

Significant fauna possibly present Four species of conservation significance, all birds, have the potential to occur within the study area. All of these bird species are known to be migratory and occur in a variety of habitats across a broad range. Potential impacts to these species are discussed below.

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) – Migratory Marine, Listed Marine (EPBC) The Fork-tailed Swift is known to use many habitat types, including coastal, arid and urban areas (Simpson and Day 2004). Consequently, it is expected that suitable habitat exists within the study area for this species. There are no BDBSA records within 5 km of the study area, and two records 103 km away (1988, 1998). The Fork- tailed Swift is highly mobile and transient in nature, and covers vast portions of Australia and overseas in its range. It is not expected that this species would be solely reliant upon habitat found within the study area. Therefore, it is not expected that construction and operation of a mine site in the study area would significantly impact this species.

Cattle Egret (Ardea ibis) – Migratory Wetland, Listed Marine (EPBC) The Cattle Egret is known to occupy pasture habitats, as well as floodwaters, wetlands and intertidal mudflats where it feeds on a variety of invertebrates, frogs and lizards (Simpson and Day 2004). Pasture habitats are known to be present within the study area and surrounding districts, although most are degraded due to weed invasion and livestock impacts. Low-lying areas within the study area may hold water following heavy rain events, however these areas are generally highly saline environments and no permanent wetlands were observed within the study area. There are no BDBSA records for this species within 5 km of the study area. The Cattle Egret is a highly mobile species, and although they may potentially utilise the low lying ‘salt pans’ whilst holding water, they are not expected to be reliant upon habitat features present within the study area, and only occur as a rare visitor to the region. Therefore, it is not expected that the construction and operation of a mine site in the study area will significantly impact this species.

Oriental Plover (Charadrius veredus) – Migratory Wetland, Listed Marine (EPBC) The Oriental Plover is a small shorebird, known to occupy dry plains and semi-arid regions (Simpson and Day 2004). This species is highly mobile, migrating annually between Mongolia, China, and Australia (DSEWPaC 2012d, SPRAT). Breeding occurs in the northern hemisphere. Oriental Plovers prefer to forage among short grass or on hard stony bare ground (some suitable habitat on site), but have also been recorded on mudflats and on beaches (McCrie 1984, Close 1982). Given the highly mobile nature of this species, and the vast amount of suitable habitat found across Australia, it is considered unlikely that the Oriental Plover relies directly upon habitat features contained within the Warramboo CEIP study area. Consequently, it is considered unlikely that the construction and operation of a mine site will significantly impact this species.

White-bellied Sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) – Migratory Terrestrial, Listed Marine (EPBC), Endangered (NPW) The White-bellied Sea-eagle occurs throughout all Australian coastlines, as well as inland areas of the Northern Territory, Queensland, NSW and Victoria (Simpson and Day 2004, Birds Australia 2006). This species is known to use many habitat types, particularly large rivers, fresh and saline lakes, reservoirs, coastal seas and islands (Simpson and Day 2004). This species has also been recorded in (or flying over) a variety of terrestrial habitats including those in semi-arid zones (Marchant & Higgins 1993). Significant populations of this species are known to occur on the Eyre Peninsula (Brandle 2010). Most of the known territories for this species occur on the west

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coast of the EP (Dennis and Lashmar 1996 cited in Brandle 2010). The White-bellied Sea-eagle is known to often occur sympatrically with the Eastern Osprey. Similar to the Osprey this raptor is known to have low reproductive rates and found in low population densities (Olsen 1998 cited in Caton et al. 2011). Also, similar to the Osprey this species is vulnerable to human disturbance, key threats include clearance of habitat, electrocution on poorly configured power poles, and entanglement with fishing gear (Caton et al. 2011).

There are no BDBSA records for this species within the study area or within 5 km but there are regional records (closest regional record 73 km away 2007). This raptor was recorded at Venus Bay and Cowell during the previous EP Biological Survey (Brandle 2010). Surveys used for the more recent EP Coastal Action indicated 70- 80 breeding pairs of this raptor occur on the EP (Dennis et al. 2011b, cited in Caton et al. 2011). Three subregions on the EP were highlighted during these surveys as providing significant habitat for both the White- bellied Sea-eagle and the Osprey. The key subregions are located on the upper-western EP and the southern EP and include adjacent off-shore islands (Caton et al. 2011).

The White-bellied Sea-eagle may occasionally be present as an overfly species to the study area, given its ability for long distance movement, known presence on the Eyre Peninsula and salt lake complex north of the study area. However in the absence of preferred habitat (i.e. open water), it would not be expected to breed or spend significant time within the study area. The development and operation of a mine site will not significantly impact this species.

6.1.3 Significant flora and fauna identified during survey in study area Six (6) species of conservation significance, one plant and five birds, were identified in the study area. Two of the six species have the potential for small local sub-populations to be impacted, but without significant impact to regional population abundance and thus viability (e.g. Gilbert’s Whistler, Large-fruit Crassula). The remaining four species are also not expected to be significantly impacted being less specific in habitat requirements, highly mobile and or regionally common.

Large-fruit Crassula (Crassula exserta) – Rare (NPW) Observed at sites 1, 4 and 5, Large-fruit Crassula is known to occupy diverse habitats including clay, sandy soils, low-lying depressions, saline areas and mudflats (Western Australian Department of Environment and Conservation 1996). Black (1986) describes this species as widely scattered but not common across South Australia, usually on sandy clay, in low lying areas, and often with other species of Crassula including C. colorata and C. sieberana ssp. tetramera. Large-fruit Crassula was recorded in the survey area at Sites 1, 4 and 5, which all had low lying salt pans either within or adjacent the site.

The BDBSA has one record of Large-fruit Crassula from near Wudinna (c. 1935), but there are many records across the broader central Eyre Peninsula including Hambidge WA, Lock, Waddikee and Carapee Hill CP. Black (1986) notes that young plants are often not distinguishable from C. sieberana ssp. tetramera, which holds no conservation significance and for which there are some 28 regional (non-confirmed) BDBSA records.

Clearance of protected flora will warrant greater scrutiny under the ‘Principles of Clearance’ set out by the Native Vegetation Act, and potentially result in higher significant environmental benefit offsets or conditions set. A targeted species survey may be required to determine population size, health and range across the study area. With a widespread distribution across the Eyre Peninsula, it is unlikely that there will be a major impact to the Large-fruit Crassula with the potential loss of small local populations. However, disturbance to the Large- fruit Crassula should be minimised where possible, and consideration given to collecting seed from local populations, and or transplanting individuals likely to be cleared for use in rehabilitation elsewhere in the site or region.

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Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus) – Migratory Terrestrial (EPBC) The Rainbow Bee-eater is a widely distributed migratory species known to use a range of habitat types, including woodlands, shrublands, and various cleared and semi-cleared habitats (SPRAT 2013, Simpson and Day 2004). These habitat types include a wide variety of vegetation types that occur in terrestrial to coastal environments. This species occurs throughout Australia, eastern Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Breeding populations of the Rainbow Bee-eater that inhabit southern Australia are known to migrate north during the southern winter (SPRAT 2013). The majority of global breeding populations occur on Rottnest Island and in the south west of Torres Strait. In SA, this species most frequently visits Dangalli Conservation Park (SPRAT). There are regional records near Darke Peak CP from 2003.

This species was observed at site 2 of this mine site survey located within remnant vegetation within a Heritage Agreement area. There are no previous BDBSA records for this species within the study area or buffer area.

This species is considered to be highly mobile and wide ranging within Australia. Key threats to the species include predators (namely the Cane Toad, foxes, dingoes and other feral dogs). Although population sizes have not been quantified, it is considered the current population is large and this species is therefore given low priority for management (SPRAT 2013).

Based on the above, this species is known to occur within the study area, however, given the highly mobile nature of this species, and its ability to use a wide range of habitat types over a large range, it is not expected that the habitat of the study area is critical to the species. It is therefore considered that construction and operation of the Warramboo CEIP mine site will not significantly impact this species.

Gilbert’s Whistler (Pachycephala inornata) – Rare (NPW) The Gilbert’s Whistler is known to occupy diverse habitats, including chenopod shrublands, Mallee and open shrublands which are common to central Eyre Peninsula and the study area (Pizzey and Knight 2006). The upper Eyre Peninsula is a stronghold for the recognised subspecies ‘gilberti’, as supported by 7 BDBSA records since 2001, with a distribution that extends far west over the Nullarbor into Western Australia. In the EP Biological Survey this species occurred sparsely at 11 sites mainly in drier mallee with larger shrubs prominent in the understorey (Brandle 2010). Preferred Mallee includes Ridge-fruited Mallee open scrub, Yorrell low woodland and Black Oak – Native Pine low woodland across the north of the EP (Brandle 2010). In the current study Gilbert’s Whistler was observed commonly at sites 2 and 3 by the field team.

As Gilbert’s Whistler is not restricted to one habitat type, is mobile and appears locally common, it is not expected to be significantly impacted by the Warramboo CEIP mine site development.

Restless Flycatcher (Myiagra inquieta) – Rare (NPW) The Restless Flycatcher is known to use cleared land, open forest, woodland and inland scrub habitats across semi-arid and temperate zones of South Australia, with strong holds of the ‘inquieta’ subspecies extending from Victoria into New South Wales, and in parts of Queensland and southern Western Australia (Simpson and Day 2004). This woodland species is however known to have declined extensively in the temperate areas of south-eastern Australia (e.g. Robinson 1991 cited in Brandle 2010).

BDBSA records suggest the Restless Flycatcher is less common regionally with only one record on the 18 October 2001, just west of Kyancutta. However the Restless Flycatcher is an extremely mobile and active bird that is more often seen in farmland (i.e. adjacent to study sites, Morcombe 2000), and usually in the same habitats as the similarly sized Willie Wagtail that is common in the region (10 BDBSA records 1998-2011). In the recent EP Biological Survey this species was recorded at 11 survey sites, suggesting that the EP is an important

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area for the species, in particular Red Gum and Mallee Box woodlands and Yorrell low woodlands (Brandle 2010). In the current survey this species was recorded only at site 3 in the study area (low open Mallee woodland with tall and low open shrubland).

Given the high mobility of this species and its ability to occupy a variety of habitats, it is not expected that the construction and operation of the Warramboo CEIP mine site will significantly impact this species.

Slender-billed Thornbill (Acanthiza iredalei iredalei) – Rare (NPW) The western subspecies of the Slender-billed Thornbill (Acanthiza iredalei iredalei) feeds primarily on insects found in arid and semi-arid regions of southern Western Australia and south-western South Australia (SPRAT 2012). A relatively sedentary bird, the Slender-billed Thornbill’s core habitat is chenopod shrubland dominated by Samphire (Sarcocornia sp.), Bluebush (Maireana sp.) or Saltbush (Atriplex sp.), but it may also range into Mallee grassy woodlands and dense heathy shrublands (Pizzey and Knight 2006). This species was recorded by the field team at sites 2 and 3 in the shrub layer below a Mallee canopy. Interestingly, it was not recorded at site 5 (dominated by Samphire), which could be considered core habitat for this species but in poor condition.

A key threat to this species has been degradation of available habitat through grazing pressure exerted by exotic herbivores, including cattle and rabbits, and clearance for agricultural purposes. It is thought that changing fire regimes throughout the range of the species may also have had an impact on available habitat (SPRAT 2012).

The Slender-billed Thornbill is considered likely to be present across the region within remnant vegetation patches, and may access a range of habitats from mixed Mallee with a moderate to dense shrub layer, to better quality Samphire and Chenopod fringing other salt lakes (e.g. Warramboo Complex north of the proposed ML). The proposed ML provides mostly degraded habitat, which may provide shelter and roosting for small, transient populations of Thornbill (as was observed), but not core breeding habitat as would be found in Hambidge and Pinkawillinie CPs well south of the proposed ML. In addition, the southern margin of the known distribution of this species occurs in the northeast of the EP region, with a strong hold in coastal areas around the top Spencer Gulf (DSEWPaC 2012e, Brandle 2010). Given the high mobility of this species and its ability to occupy a variety of habitats, it is not expected that the construction and operation of the Warramboo CEIP mine site will significantly impact this species.

This species has recently been delisted from the EPBC Act; previously rated as Vulnerable.

White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos) – Rare (NPW) The White-winged Chough is spread across temperate and semi-arid regions in South Australia (Simpson and Day 2004). This species is known to occupy diverse open woody habitat types including Mallee, ranging into open shrubland (Simpson and Day 2004, Brandle 2010). The White-winged Chough appears regionally common with nearly a dozen BDBSA records since 20 August 2000. The main population on the Eyre Peninsula is thought to occur in the Koppio Hills, but it is known to be widespread in the tall mallee woodlands across the north of the EP region (Brandle 2010). In the EP Biological survey this species was recorded in a variety of woodlands at 11 sites (Brandle 2010). In the current study it was observed at site 5 and opportunistically in roadside Mallee.

As the White-winged Chough is not restricted to one habitat type, is mobile and appears locally common, it is not expected to be significantly impacted by the Warramboo CEIP mine site development.

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7 Mine site legislation and approvals As a result of findings from baseline field and desktop studies of the Warramboo CEIP site, the following environmental legislation is considered relevant to further approvals, licensing and or special conditions prior to development works.

7.1 Environment

7.1.1 EPBC Referral Determination Three species listed under the EPBC Act have been observed using habitat within the study area, with a further seven species identified by the desktop review considered to have potential to occur in the study area. It is noted that the field survey undertaken to produce this report did not constitute targeted survey for listed species with the exception of Malleefowl. Although site usage by these species is based upon limited data, further targeted surveys are unlikely to alter the conclusion that significant impacts to all EPBC listed species are not expected. This is because the fragmented, isolated and degraded nature of remaining remnant habitat on site is not expected to support core populations of these species, only potential transient visitors (refer Section 6 for further details).

There were no other matters of national environmental significance identified on site (i.e. wetlands of international importance, commonwealth lands or marine areas, threatened ecological communities).

It is understood that Iron Road intends to submit an EPBC referral for further assessment of this development by the Commonwealth Government.

7.1.2 Native Vegetation Act and SEB The proposed mining lease covers an area of approximately 85 km2 of which 12.4 % is mapped as native vegetation (Native Vegetation Layer, DEH 2004). An application to clear native vegetation and thus permit development (of mine site and associated infrastructure) will be required under the Native Vegetation Act and Regulations if any of these patches of vegetation are to be modified. All applications are assessed by the Native Vegetation Council (NVC) against the principles of clearance (Schedule 1 of the Act), a set of criteria which dictate under what circumstances clearance of native vegetation may be permitted. Clearance if permitted will undoubtedly be with a set of conditions and a requirement for significant environmental benefit (SEB) to be made to counter the loss of habitat.

The rationale for SEB is based upon the premise that further clearance of native vegetation (irrespective of size) will result in more loss of habitat, biodiversity and environmental values in a landscape that has already been substantially modified by European settlement. The intent of SEB is not only to replace the immediate environmental values lost through clearance, but also to achieve a net gain that contributes to improving the condition of the environment and biodiversity of the region. SEB may be made through on ground management and restoration of native habitats as guided by an approved vegetation management plan, or by direct monetary contribution into the Native Vegetation Fund (NVF).

This survey presents a preliminary assessment of potential SEB offset requirements for the native vegetation of the study area (refer Section 5.1.4.3). A further assessment will be required once designs (impact footprints) are finalised prior to preparation of the native vegetation clearance application and native vegetation management plan.

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7.1.3 Natural Resources Management Act Several weed species observed throughout the study area are declared under the Natural Resources Management Act (refer Section 4.5). Consequently, control is required for these species and is the responsibility of landholders. Control of declared weeds will need to be undertaken by Iron Road and appropriate measures documented in Construction and Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs) for development and EMPs for operation of the site. Similar requirements will apply for the appropriate management and control of pest fauna and abundant native species.

Additionally, any water-affecting activities may need prior approval and discussion in an EMP. Water-affecting activities that are relevant to mine site development may include:

• The erection, construction, or placement of any building or structure in a watercourse or lake or on the floodplain of a watercourse • Depositing or placing an object or solid material on the floodplain of a watercourse or near the bank or shore of a lake to control flooding from the watercourse or lake. • Draining or discharging water directly into a watercourse, lake or well. • Destroying vegetation growing in a watercourse or lake or growing on the floodplain of a watercourse

7.1.4 Environment Protection Act The development of the proposed Warramboo CEIP project site may require licensing and approval from the EPA under the Environment Protection Act, with regards to undertaking an ecologically sustainable development and preventing or minimising environmental harm. All proponents have a general environmental duty of care (section 25 of the Act) by which harm to the environment must be avoided. A series of environment protection policies endorsed by the Act provide guidance on best practice management and expectation of pollution mitigation and management.

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8 Summary and conclusion A springtime flora and fauna survey of the Warramboo CEIP project site, coupled with a comprehensive desktop assessment of ecological values, provided the following key outcomes:

• The Eyre Mallee subregion has the highest biodiversity within the Eyre York B bioregion with 1,212 recorded plant species (6 endemic), 177 bird species, 82 reptile species and 23 species of mammals (DEH, 2002) • Vegetation groups identified during the surveys are present across the mining area and common throughout the central Eyre Peninsula. The proposed mine is unlikely to have a significant impact on the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora at the species and ecosystem level. • The number of weed species already present in the Warramboo CEIP area is about average for the district (refer DEH 2002). Thirty weed species have previously been recorded in the study area and 5 km buffer (BDBSA 2013). The Bush Condition Monitoring Manual for the Eyre Peninsula suggests that for the broad Mallee communities that occur within the study area, presence of more than 25 weeds indicates vegetation is in poor or very poor condition (see Milne et al. 2008). • A total of 77 vertebrate species, and 145 plant species from the 5 flora and fauna survey sites, 10 roadside sites and opportunistically were identified within the study area. These totals included 7 introduced fauna (3 bird and 4 mammal) and 27 weed species. These high weed numbers demonstrate vegetation is of poorer condition. • Fauna species diversity was generally low, commensurate with the poorer condition of the habitat encountered. Degradation was attributed to a range of factors including habitat fragmentation, disturbance (high weed numbers), isolation, size and shape, age and complexity, and an elevated saline groundwater table. • Six species of conservation significance were recorded in the study area, including one EPBC listed species (Rainbow Bee-eater). The other five species have conservation significance under the State NPW Act, including one plant (Large-fruited Crassula) and four birds (Slender-billed Thornbill, Gilbert’s Whistler, Restless Flycatcher and White-winged Chough). Three of these species had been highlighted in the desktop assessment. • A total of 28 species of conservation significance have been considered by this report. Of these species, a likelihood assessment indicated 12 are unlikely to occur in the study area, 10 have the potential to occur and 6 were recorded during the survey. • Significant impacts to species conservation significance are not expected due to the degraded, fragmented and isolated nature of remaining remnant vegetation. Presence of any EPBC listed species likely represents transient visitors rather than core populations. It is noted that the field survey undertaken to produce this report did not constitute a targeted species search for any of the listed species, apart from Malleefowl (considered unlikely to occur within the study area). • There were no other matters of national environmental significance (MNES) identified as relevant to the study area (e.g. Commonwealth lands, Commonwealth Reserves, critical habitats, nationally important wetlands). • An EPBC referral will be required for any action, mining or otherwise, that will have or is likely to have a significant impact on MNES. • An application to clear native vegetation will be required under the Native Vegetation Act and Regulations, and an assessment of actual areas of impact and SEB offsets will be required once design and layouts are finalized.

This study establishes a baseline of flora and fauna at the Warramboo CEIP project site. The survey represents one snapshot in time. A comprehensive baseline provides a solid basis on which to frame future management

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and rehabilitation, and likewise against which to dismiss or confirm the influence of any particular activity on a particular species, community or environment.

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9 References Alldredge M, Pollock K and Simons T (2006) ‘Estimating Detection Probabilities from Multiple Observer Point Counts’, The Auk, 123(4): 1172-1182. ANRA (2009) Australian National Resources Atlas Biodiversity Assessment - Eyre Yorke Block, http://www.anra.gov.au/topics/vegetation/assessment/sa/ibra-eyb-natural-values.html (Access online December 2011). Australian Weeds Committee (AWC) (2012) Weeds of National Significance, http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/ (Accessed online February 2012). Benshemesh, J. (2005). National Recovery Plan for Malleefowl 2006-2010. Department of Environment and Heritage, Adelaide Birds Australia (2006) White-bellied Sea-eagle (online), Available: http://birdsinbackyards.net/species/Haliaeetus-leucogaster, Accessed 03/02/2012 Black, J.M (1986) Flora of South Australia, Vol. I-IV revised. Government printer: South Australia. Brooker M I H and Kleinig D A (2001) Field Guide to Eucalypts: Volume 2 South-western and Southern Australia. Bloomings Books, Melbourne Australia. Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) (2012). South Australian Weather Observation Stations (accessed online), http://www.bom.gov.au/sa/observations/map.shtml Close D H (1982) Recent records of the Oriental Plover in South Australian Ornithologist. 28:205-206. Croft, S. J., Milne, T.I. and Pedler, J.A (2005-2009) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Southern Mt Lofty Ranges, Murray Darling Basin, Eyre Peninsula, Northern Agricultural and Yorke Peninsula Regions. Cogger H (2000) Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed, NSW. Cunningham G, Mulham B, Milthorpe P and Leigh J (1993) Plants of Western New South Wales, Inkata Press, Sydney. Cunningham R B, Lindenmayer D B, Mac (D Gregor C, Barry S and Welsh A (2005) Effects of trap position, trap history, microhabitat and season on capture probabilities of small mammals in a wet eucalypt forest. Wildlife Research 32 (8): 657-671. Department for Environment and Heritage(DEH) (2002) Biodiversity Plan for Eyre Peninsula South Australia, Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) (2004). Native vegetation cover – statewide; GIS dataset, DENR, Adelaide. Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) (2013a). Remnancy Statistics by IBRA Vegetation Assocaitions provided by the Native Vegetation Management Unit. Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) (2013b) BushRAT Manual for Native Vegetation. Native Vegetation Management Unit, Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, Adelaide. Department of Environment and Heritage (2005). Australia’s Biogeographical Regions. Available online from: http://www.deh.gov.au/parks/nrs/ibra. Department of Environment and Heritage. Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2011a) Prasophyllum goldsackii in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment,

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Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=2380 (accessed 05/09/2011). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2011b) Nyctophilus corbeni in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=83395 (accessed 06/09/2011). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2012a) Ardea ibis in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=59542#habitat (accessed 03/02/2012). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2012b) Hirundapus caudacutus in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=682 (accessed 03/02/2012). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2012c) Ardea modesta in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=82410#habitat (accessed 03/02/2012). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2012d) Charadrius veredus in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), available http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=882 (accessed 03/02/2012). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2012e). Acanthiza iredalei iredalei in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), Available: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=25967 (accessed 04/02/2012). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2012f). Merops ornatus in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra (online), Available: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=25967 (accessed 04/02/2012). Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC) (2005) Guidelines for a native vegetation significant environmental benefit policy for the clearance of native vegetation associated with the minerals and petroleum industry. DWLBC, South Australia. Doherty M (1998) The conservation value of regrowth native plant communities: a review, CSIRO division of wildlife and ecology, Canberra. Electronic Flora of South Australia (EFSA) (2012a) Plant distribution mapper, Government of South Australia, Adelaide (online), available: http://www.flora.sa.gov.au/mapper2.shtml Electronic Flora of South Australia (EFSA) (2012b). Olearia picridifolia species fact sheet, Government of South Australia, Adelaide (online), available: http://www.flora.sa.gov.au/cgi- bin/speciesfacts_display.cgi?form=speciesfacts&name=Olearia_picridifolia Heard, L. and Channon, B. (Eds) (1997) Guide to a native vegetation survey (agricultural region) using the Biological Survey of South Australia Methodology. Geographic Analysis and Research Unit, Information and Data Analysis Branch, Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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Hutchinson M (unpublished) Key to the Geckos of South Australia. Museum of South Australia, Adelaide. Hutchinson M (unpublished) Key to the Skinks of South Australia. Museum of South Australia, Adelaide. Iron Road Limited (2011b) Central Eyre Iron Project (South Australia); project update September 2011. Iron Road Limited, Adelaide Jessop J Dashorst G R M and James F (2006) Grasses of South Australia, Wakefield Press, South Australia. Kemper C (unpublished) Key to Dasyuridae of SA. Museum of South Australia, Adelaide. Kemper C (unpublished) Key to Muridae of South Australia. Museum of South Australia, Adelaide. Lumsden L F and Bennett A F (1995) Bats of semi-arid environment in south-eastern australia: biogeography, ecology and conservation in Wildlife Research. 22, 217-40. Marchant S and Higgins P J (eds.) (1990). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds. Volume 1 - Ratites to Ducks. Melbourne, Victoria: Oxford University Press. Marchant S and Higgins P J (eds.) (1993). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds. Volume 2 - Raptors to Lapwings. Melbourne, Victoria: Oxford University Press. McCrie N (1984). Further records of the Oriental Plover and a reassessment of some problems in field identification in South Australian Ornithologist. 29:106-107. Menkhorst P W and Bennett A F (1990). Vertebrate fauna of mallee vegetation in southern Australia In The Mallee Lands: A Conservation Perspective (Eds J. C. Noble, P. J. Joss and G. K. Jones.) pp. 39–53, CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne. Menkhorst P and Knight F (2001) A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia. Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Moseby K and Read J (2001) Fanua monitoring of Dominion Exploration Area. Ecological Horizons, Roxby Downs. Morcombe M (2000) Field Guide to Australian Birds. Steve Parish Publishing, Brisbane. National Native Title Tribunal (2011a) Exactly what is native title? (accessed online) http://www.nntt.gov.au/What-Is-Native-Title/Pages/What-is-Native-Title.aspx National Native Title Tribunal (2011b) Claimant application summary – Barngarla Native Title Claim, (accessed online) http://www.nntt.gov.au/Applications-And-Determinations/Search- Applications/Pages/Application.aspx?tribunal_file_no=SC96/4 Nicole D (2013) Native Eucalypts of South Australia, Lane Print and Post, Adelaide, South Australia. Owens H (Ed) (2000) Guidelines for vertebrate surveys in South Australia using the Biological Survey of South Australia. Biological Survey and Research Section, National Parks and Wildlife SA, Department for Environment and Heritage, Adelaide. Parnaby H (1992) An interim guide to identification of insectivorous bats of south-eastern Australia in Technical Reports of the Australian Museum No. 8. Australian Museum, Sydney. Parks and Wildlife Commission Northern Territory (2006) Threatened Species of the NT: Sandhill Dunnart Sminthopsis psammophila, Northern Territory Department of Natural Resources, Environment and the Arts. Pennay M Law B and Reinhold L (2004) Bat calls of New South Wales; region based guide to the echolocation calls of microchiropteran bats. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurtsville. Pizzey G and Knight F (2006) The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia (Seventh Edition).

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Pobke, K. (2007) Draft recovery plan for 23 threatened flora taxa on Eyre Peninsula, South Australia 2007-2012, Department for Environment and Heritage, South Australia. Read J L and Moseby K E (2001) Factors affecting pitfall capture rates of small ground vertebrates in arid South Australia. II. Optimum pitfall trapping effort. Wildlife Research 28(1): 61-71. Richardson F J Richardson R G Shepherd R C H (2007) Weeds of the South-East; an identification guide for Australia. R G and F J Richardson (Publishing), Victoria. Simpson K and Day N (2004) Field Guide to the Birds of Australia (7th Edition). Penguin Books Australia. Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) (2012a) Central Eyre Iron Project: Port Site Ecological Survey. SKM, Adelaide. Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) (2012b) Central Eyre Iron Project: Infrastructure Corridor Ecological Assessment. SKM, Adelaide. SPRAT (Species Profle and Threats Database) Profile; accessed 2011-2013at http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl. Strahan R (1995) The Mammals of Australia. Reed Books, NSW. Thackway R and Cresswell I D (1995). An interim biogeographic regionalisation for Australia: a framework for setting priorities in the National Reserves System Cooperative Program, Version 4.0. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra. Thompson S A, Thompson G G and Withers P C (2005) Influence of pit-trap type on the interpretation of fauna diversity. Wildlife Research 32(2): 131-137 Todd J A (2000) Recovery Plan for twelve threatened Spider-orchid Caladenia taxa (Orchidaceae: Caladeniinae) of Victoria and South Australia 2000 – 2004. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne. Tonkinson, D and Robertson, G. (2010) National Recovery Plan for Yellow Swainson-pea Swainsona pyrophila, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria. Triggs B (1996) Tracks, Scats and Other Traces: A Field Guide to Australian Mammals. Oxford University Press. Wayne A F, Cowling A, Rooney J F, Ward C G, Wheeler I B, Lindenmayer D B and Donelly C F (2005) Factors affecting the detection of possums by spotlighting in Western Australia. Wildlife Research 32 (8): 689-700 Western Australian Department of Environment and Conservation (1996) Crassula exserta, (online), Available: http://florabase.dec.wa.gov.au/browse/profile.php/3139 (accessed 6/9/2011). Williams J R Driscoll D A and Bull C M (2011) Roadside connectivity does not increase reptile abundance or richness in a fragmented mallee landscape. Austral Ecology, published online at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2011.02292.x/abstract Wilson S and Swan G (2008) A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia (2nd Edition). Reed New Holland, Sydney. Whibley D J E and Symon D E (1992) Acacias of South Australia. Government printer, South Australia.

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Appendix A EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool

E-F-34-RPT-0003_1 (Mine Site Ecological Survey).docx 31 July 2014 79 EPBC Act Protected Matters Report

This report provides general guidance on matters of national environmental significance and other matters protected by the EPBC Act in the area you have selected.

Information on the coverage of this report and qualifications on data supporting this report are contained in the caveat at the end of the report.

Information is available about Environment Assessments and the EPBC Act including significance guidelines, forms and application process details.

Report created: 28/08/13 09:36:20

Summary Details Matters of NES Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act Extra Information Caveat Acknowledgements

This map may contain data which are ©Commonwealth of Australia (Geoscience Australia), ©PSMA 2010

Coordinates Buffer: 5.0Km Summary

Matters of National Environmental Significance

This part of the report summarises the matters of national environmental significance that may occur in, or may relate to, the area you nominated. Further information is available in the detail part of the report, which can be accessed by scrolling or following the links below. If you are proposing to undertake an activity that may have a significant impact on one or more matters of national environmental significance then you should consider the Administrative Guidelines on Significance.

World Heritage Properties: None National Heritage Places: None Wetlands of International Importance: None Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: None Commonwealth Marine Areas: None Listed Threatened Ecological Communities: None Listed Threatened Species: 8 Listed Migratory Species: 7

Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act

This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated. Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment anywhere.

The EPBC Act protects the environment on Commonwealth land, the environment from the actions taken on Commonwealth land, and the environment from actions taken by Commonwealth agencies. As heritage values of a place are part of the 'environment', these aspects of the EPBC Act protect the Commonwealth Heritage values of a Commonwealth Heritage place and the heritage values of a place on the Register of the National Estate.

This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated. Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment anywhere.

A permit may be required for activities in or on a Commonwealth area that may affect a member of a listed threatened species or ecological community, a member of a listed migratory species, whales and other cetaceans, or a member of a listed marine species.

Commonwealth Land: None Commonwealth Heritage Places: None Listed Marine Species: 7 Whales and Other Cetaceans: None Critical Habitats: None Commonwealth Reserves: None Extra Information

This part of the report provides information that may also be relevant to the area you have nominated.

Place on the RNE: 1 State and Territory Reserves: 2 Regional Forest Agreements: None Invasive Species: 11 Nationally Important Wetlands: None Key Ecological Features (Marine) None

Details

Matters of National Environmental Significance

Listed Threatened Species [ Resource Information ] Name Status Type of Presence Birds Acanthiza iredalei iredalei Slender-billed Thornbill (western) [25967] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl [934] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Mammals Sminthopsis psammophila Sandhill Dunnart [291] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Plants Acacia pinguifolia Fat-leaved Wattle [5319] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Acacia rhetinocarpa Neat Wattle, Resin Wattle (SA) [11282] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Caladenia tensa Greencomb Spider-orchid, Rigid Spider-orchid Endangered Species or species [24390] habitat likely to occur within area Prasophyllum goldsackii Goldsack's Leek-orchid [2380] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Swainsona pyrophila Yellow Swainson-pea [56344] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Listed Migratory Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Migratory Marine Birds Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Migratory Terrestrial Species Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species habitat may occur within area Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl [934] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species habitat may occur within area Migratory Wetlands Species Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret [59541] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Ardea ibis Cattle Egret [59542] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Charadrius veredus Oriental Plover, Oriental Dotterel [882] Species or species habitat may occur within area

Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act Listed Marine Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Birds Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret [59541] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Ardea ibis Cattle Egret [59542] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Charadrius veredus Oriental Plover, Oriental Dotterel [882] Species or species habitat may occur within area Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species habitat may occur within area Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species habitat may occur within area Pandion haliaetus Osprey [952] Species or species habitat may occur within area Extra Information Places on the RNE [ Resource Information ] Note that not all Indigenous sites may be listed. Name State Status Natural Hambidge Conservation Park SA Registered

State and Territory Reserves [ Resource Information ] Name State Hambidge SA Unnamed (No.HA869) SA

Invasive Species [ Resource Information ] Weeds reported here are the 20 species of national significance (WoNS), along with other introduced plants that are considered by the States and Territories to pose a particularly significant threat to biodiversity. The following feral animals are reported: Goat, Red Fox, Cat, Rabbit, Pig, Water Buffalo and Cane Toad. Maps from Landscape Health Project, National Land and Water Resouces Audit, 2001. Name Status Type of Presence Birds Carduelis carduelis European Goldfinch [403] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Columba livia Rock Pigeon, Rock Dove, Domestic Pigeon [803] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Passer domesticus House Sparrow [405] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling [389] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Mammals Capra hircus Goat [2] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Felis catus Cat, House Cat, Domestic Cat [19] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Mus musculus House Mouse [120] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit, European Rabbit [128] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Name Status Type of Presence Vulpes vulpes Red Fox, Fox [18] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Plants Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper, Bridal Veil Creeper, Smilax, Species or species Florist's Smilax, Smilax Asparagus [22473] habitat likely to occur within area Carrichtera annua Ward's Weed [9511] Species or species habitat may occur within area Coordinates -33.22543438 135.7509638,-33.25516274 135.7509928,-33.25351551 135.8167903, -33.29705254 135.8160475,-33.29874412 135.7851249,-33.28888043 135.7409189, -33.2909188 135.7142455,-33.30089661 135.6933306,-33.30115778 135.6822316, -33.2959951 135.6705299,-33.27175137 135.6554018,-33.27188924 135.6233255, -33.24845563Caveat 135.6233698,-33.24724717 135.6070533,-33.23999038 135.6074445, -33.21261232The information 135.6861082,-33.22558558 presented in this report has been 135.6861169,-33.22543438 provided by a range of data 135.7509638 sources as acknowledged at the end of the report. This report is designed to assist in identifying the locations of places which may be relevant in determining obligations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. It holds mapped locations of World Heritage and Register of National Estate properties, Wetlands of International Importance, Commonwealth and State/Territory reserves, listed threatened, migratory and marine species and listed threatened ecological communities. Mapping of Commonwealth land is not complete at this stage. Maps have been collated from a range of sources at various resolutions.

Not all species listed under the EPBC Act have been mapped (see below) and therefore a report is a general guide only. Where available data supports mapping, the type of presence that can be determined from the data is indicated in general terms. People using this information in making a referral may need to consider the qualifications below and may need to seek and consider other information sources.

For threatened ecological communities where the distribution is well known, maps are derived from recovery plans, State vegetation maps, remote sensing imagery and other sources. Where threatened ecological community distributions are less well known, existing vegetation maps and point location data are used to produce indicative distribution maps.

For species where the distributions are well known, maps are digitised from sources such as recovery plans and detailed habitat studies. Where appropriate, core breeding, foraging and roosting areas are indicated under 'type of presence'. For species whose distributions are less well known, point locations are collated from government wildlife authorities, museums, and non-government organisations; bioclimatic distribution models are generated and these validated by experts. In some cases, the distribution maps are based solely on expert knowledge.

Only selected species covered by the following provisions of the EPBC Act have been mapped: - migratory and - marine The following species and ecological communities have not been mapped and do not appear in reports produced from this database: - threatened species listed as extinct or considered as vagrants - some species and ecological communities that have only recently been listed - some terrestrial species that overfly the Commonwealth marine area - migratory species that are very widespread, vagrant, or only occur in small numbers The following groups have been mapped, but may not cover the complete distribution of the species: - non-threatened seabirds which have only been mapped for recorded breeding sites - seals which have only been mapped for breeding sites near the Australian continent Such breeding sites may be important for the protection of the Commonwealth Marine environment. Acknowledgements This database has been compiled from a range of data sources. The department acknowledges the following custodians who have contributed valuable data and advice: -Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, New South Wales -Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria -Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Tasmania -Department of Environment and Natural Resources, South Australia -Parks and Wildlife Service NT, NT Dept of Natural Resources, Environment and the Arts -Environmental and Resource Management, Queensland -Department of Environment and Conservation, Western Australia -Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water -Birds Australia -Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme -Australian National Wildlife Collection -Natural history museums of Australia -Museum Victoria -Australian Museum -SA Museum -Queensland Museum -Online Zoological Collections of Australian Museums -Queensland Herbarium -National Herbarium of NSW -Royal Botanic Gardens and National Herbarium of Victoria -Tasmanian Herbarium -State Herbarium of South Australia -Northern Territory Herbarium -Western Australian Herbarium -Australian National Herbarium, Atherton and Canberra -University of New England -Ocean Biogeographic Information System -Australian Government, Department of Defence -State Forests of NSW -Geoscience Australia -CSIRO -Other groups and individuals

The Department is extremely grateful to the many organisations and individuals who provided expert advice and information on numerous draft distributions.

Please feel free to provide feedback via the Contact Us page.

© Commonwealth of Australia Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities GPO Box 787 Canberra ACT 2601 Australia +61 2 6274 1111

ABN: 51 128 698 108

Appendix B Site Photos

Plate B-1 Flora and fauna Site 1

Plate B-2 Flora and fauna Site 2

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Plate B-3 Flora and fauna Site 3

Plate B-4 Flora and fauna Site 4

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Plate B-5 Flora and fauna Site 5

Plate B-6 Flora Site A

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Plate B-7 Flora Site B

Plate B-8 Flora Site C

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Plate B-9 Flora Site D

Plate B-10 Flora Site E

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Plate B-11 Flora Site F

Plate B-12 Flora Site G

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Plate B-13 Flora Site H

Plate B-14 Flora Site I

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Plate B-15 Flora Site J

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Appendix C Flora of the study area

BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Acacia ancistrophylla var. lissophylla Hook-leaf Wattle x

Acacia brachybotrya Grey Mulga-bush x

Acacia calamifolia Wallowa x

Acacia colletioides Veined Wait-a-while x x

Acacia euthycarpa Wallowa x

Acacia farinosa Mealy Wattle x

Acacia hakeoides Hakea Wattle x

Acacia ligulata Umbrella Bush x

Acacia merrallii Merrall's Wattle x

Acacia nyssophylla Spine Bush x

Acacia oswaldii Umbrella Wattle x

Acacia rigens Nealie x

Acacia sclerophylla var. sclerophylla Hard-leaf Wattle x x x

Acacia spinescens Spiny Wattle x

Acrotriche patula Prickly Ground-berry x

Actinobole uliginosum Flannel Cudweed x

Allocasuarina helmsii Helm's Oak-bush x x

Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak x

Alyxia buxifolia Sea Box x

Amaranthus grandiflorus Large-flower Amaranth x

Amyema melaleucae Tea-tree Mistletoe x

Angianthus preissianus Salt Angianthus x

Angianthus tomentosus Hairy Angianthus x

Atriplex stipitata Bitter Saltbush x x

Austrodanthonia caespitosa Common Wallaby-grass x x x x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Austrodanthonia setacea Small-flower Wallaby-grass x x x

Austrostipa acrociliata Graceful Spear-grass x

Austrostipa echinata Spiny Spear-grass R x

Austrostipa elegantissima Feather Spear-grass x x x x x x x

Austrostipa exilis Heath Spear-grass x

Austrostipa flavescens Coast Spear-grass x x x x x x x

Austrostipa hemipogon Half-beard Spear-grass x

Austrostipa mundula Neat Spear-grass x

Austrostipa nitida Balcarra Spear-grass x

Austrostipa puberula Fine-hairy Spear-grass x

Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra Rough Spear-grass x x x x x x x x x x x x x

Austrostipa trichophylla x

Austrostipa vickeryana Vickery's Spear-grass R x

Baeckea crassifolia Desert Baeckea x x x x

Beyeria lechenaultii Pale Turpentine Bush x

Beyeria opaca Dark Turpentine Bush x x

Billardiera cymosa (NC) Sweet Apple-berry x x x x

Blennospora drummondii Dwarf Button-flower x

Boerhavia dominii Tar-vine x

Boronia coerulescens ssp. coerulescens Blue Boronia x

Boronia inornata ssp. leptophylla Dryland Boronia x

Brachyscome ciliaris var. Variable Daisy x

Brachyscome ciliaris var. ciliaris Variable Daisy x x

Brachyscome lineariloba Hard-head Daisy x

Bulbine semibarbata Small Leek-lily x x

Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa Sweet Bursaria x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Caladenia septuosa Eyre Peninsula Spider-orchid x

Calandrinia calyptrata Pink Purslane x

Calandrinia eremaea Dryland Purslane x x

Calandrinia granulifera Pigmy Purslane x

Callitris gracilis Southern Cypress-pine x x x

Calochilus pruinosus Plains Beard-orchid x

Calytrix involucrata Cup Fringe-myrtle x x

Calytrix tetragona Common Fringe-myrtle x x

Carpobrotus modestus Inland Pigface x

Carpobrotus rossii Native Pigface x x x

Cassytha glabella f. dispar Slender Dodder-laurel x

Cassytha melantha Coarse Dodder-laurel x x

Cassytha peninsularis Peninsula Dodder-laurel x

Chenopodium desertorum ssp. Desert Goosefoot x

Choretrum glomeratum var. Sour-bush x

Chrysocephalum apiculatum Common Everlasting x

Clematis microphylla var. microphylla (NC) Old Man's Beard x

Comesperma scoparium Broom Milkwort x x x

Comesperma volubile Love Creeper x x x

Correa pulchella Salmon Correa x

Crassula colorata var. acuminata Dense Crassula x

Crassula colorata var. colorata Dense Crassula x

Crassula exserta Large-fruit Crassula x x x R

Crassula sieberiana ssp. tetramera (NC) Australian Stonecrop x

Cryptandra amara var. amara (NC) Spiny Cryptandra x

Cyphanthera myosotidea Small-leaf Ray-flower x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Dampiera rosmarinifolia Rosemary Dampiera x x x x

Darwinia salina Salt Darwinia x x

Daucus glochidiatus Native Carrot x x x

Daviesia benthamii ssp. acanthoclona Dryland Bitter-pea x

Daviesia ulicifolia ssp. aridicola Gorse Bitter-pea x

Dianella brevicaulis/revoluta var. Black-anther Flax-lily x

Dianella revoluta var. x x

Dianella revoluta var. divaricata Broad-leaf Flax-lily x

Dianella revoluta var. revoluta Black-anther Flax-lily x

Dicrastylis verticillata Whorled Sand-sage x

Dillwynia hispida Red Parrot-pea x x

Dillwynia uncinata Silky Parrot-pea x

Dodonaea baueri Crinkled Hop-bush x

Dodonaea bursariifolia Small Hop-bush x

Dodonaea hexandra Horned Hop-bush x

Dodonaea humilis Dwarf Hop-bush x

Dodonaea stenozyga Desert Hop-bush x

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima Narrow-leaf Hop-bush x x

Einadia nutans ssp. nutans Climbing Saltbush x x

Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa Ruby Saltbush x x x x x x x x x x

Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass x

Epilobium billardierianum ssp. cinereum x

Eremophila alternifolia Narrow-leaf Emubush x

Eremophila crassifolia Thick-leaf Emubush x x x

Eremophila glabra ssp. glabra Tar Bush x x

Eremophila weldii Purple Emubush x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Eriochiton sclerolaenoides Woolly-fruit Bluebush x

Eucalyptus brachycalyx Gilja x x x x x x x x x

Eucalyptus calcareana Nundroo Mallee x

Eucalyptus diversifolia (NC) Coastal White Mallee x

Eucalyptus dumosa White Mallee x x

Eucalyptus leptophylla Narrow-leaved Mallee x x x x

Eucalyptus gracilis Yorrell x x x x x x x x x

Eucalyptus incrassata Ridge-fruited Mallee x x x x x

Eucalyptus oleosa (NC) Red Mallee x x x

Eucalyptus oleosa ssp. ampliata Red Mallee x

Eucalyptus phenax (NC) Sessile-fruit White Mallee x

Eucalyptus porosa Mallee Box x

Eucalyptus socialis (NC) Beaked Red Mallee x x x x

Eucalyptus socialis ssp. viridans Beaked Red Mallee x

Eucalyptus yalatensis Yalata Mallee x

Euchiton sphaericus Annual Cudweed x

Eutaxia microphylla Common Eutaxia x

Exocarpos aphyllus Leafless Cherry x

Exocarpos sparteus Slender Cherry x x

Gahnia deusta Limestone Saw-sedge x

Gahnia lanigera Black Grass Saw-sedge x x

Geijera linearifolia Sheep Bush x

Genoplesium nigricans Black Midge-orchid x

Glischrocaryon behrii Golden Pennants x

Gnephosis tenuissima Dwarf Golden-tip x x

Goodenia affinis x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Goodenia quasilibera x

Goodenia varia Sticky Goodenia x

Goodenia willisiana Silver Goodenia x

Grevillea huegelii Comb Grevillea x x

Grevillea ilicifolia ssp. ilicifolia Holly-leaf Grevillea x

Grevillea juncifolia ssp. juncifolia Honeysuckle Grevillea x

Grevillea sarissa ssp. umbellifera Desert Comb Grevillea x

Gynandriris setifolia x x

Gyrostemon australasicus Buckbush Wheel-fruit x

Hakea francisiana Bottlebrush Hakea x x x

Hakea mitchellii Heath Needlebush x

Halgania andromedifolia Scented Blue-flower x x

Halgania cyanea Rough Blue-flower x x x x

Helichrysum apiculatum x

Helichrysum leucopsideum Satin Everlasting x x

Hibbertia riparia Bristly Guinea-flower x

Hibbertia sp. Glabriuscula (D.J.Whibley 9012) Smooth Guinea-flower x

Hibbertia virgata Twiggy Guinea-flower x x x

Homoranthus wilhelmii Wilhelm's Homoranthus x x x

Hyalosperma demissim x x

Hyalosperma glutinosum ssp. glutinosum Golden Sunray x

Hybanthus floribundus ssp. floribundus Shrub Violet x

Hyllipterum sp. x

Lasiopetalum baueri Slender Velvet-bush x

Lasiopetalum behrii Pink Velvet-bush x

Lactuca serriola x x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Lepidosperma carphoides Black Rapier-sedge x x x

Lepidosperma concavum/congestum/laterale Sword-sedge x

Lepidosperma congestum x

Lepidosperma viscidum Sticky Sword-sedge x x x x

Leptospermum coriaceum Dune Tea-tree x x x

Lichen sp. x

Limonium thouini x

Lobelia gibbosa Tall Lobelia x

Logania minor Spoon-leaf Logania x

Logania ovata Oval-leaf Logania x

Lomandra collina Sand Mat-rush x

Lomandra effusa Scented Mat-rush x x x

Lomandra leucocephala x x

Lomandra leucocephala ssp. robusta Woolly Mat-rush x

Maireana brevifolia Short-leaf Bluebush x x x

Maireana enchylaenoides Wingless Fissure-plant x

Maireana erioclada Rosy Bluebush x x x x

Maireana pentatropis Erect Mallee Bluebush x x x

Maireana radiata Radiate Bluebush x

Maireana sclerolaenoides x

Maireana trichoptera Hairy-fruit Bluebush x x x

Melaleuca acuminata ssp. acuminata Mallee Honey-myrtle x

Melaleuca halmaturorum Swamp Paper-bark x

Melaleuca lanceolata Dryland Tea-tree x x x x x

Melaleuca pauperiflora ssp. mutica Boree x x x x x x x x

Melaleuca uncinata Broombush x x x x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Microcybe sp. x

Microcybe multiflora ssp. Small-leaf Microcybe x

Microcybe multiflora ssp. baccharoides Scale-leaf Microcybe x

Microcybe multiflora ssp. multiflora Small-leaf Microcybe x x x

Microcybe pauciflora ssp. pauciflora Yellow Microcybe x

Millotia muelleri Common Bow-flower x

Millotia myosotidifolia Broad-leaf Millotia x

Millotia tenuifolia var. tenuifolia Soft Millotia x

Moraea setifolia Thread Iris x

Moss sp. x

Myoporum montanum x

Neogunnia septifraga Green Pigface x

Olearia brachyphylla Short-leaf Daisy-bush x

Olearia ciliata var. ciliata Fringed Daisy-bush x

Olearia floribunda var. floribunda Heath Daisy-bush x

Olearia lanuginosa Woolly Daisy-bush x

Olearia minor Heath Daisy-bush x

Olearia muelleri Mueller’s Daisy-bush x

Olearia picridifolia Rasp Daisy-bush R x

Olearia rudis Azure Daisy-bush x

Opercularia turpis Twiggy Stinkweed x

Osteocarpum acropterum x

Oxalis perennans (NC) Native Sorrel x

Ozothamnus decurrens Ridged Bush-everlasting x

Parapholis incurva Curly Ryegrass x x

Phebalium bullatum Silvery Phebalium x x x x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Pimelea serpyllifolia ssp. serpyllifolia Thyme Riceflower x

Pittosporum angustifolium Native Apricot x x

Plantago drummondii Dark Plantain x

Plantago sp. B (R.Bates 44765) Little Plantain x

Poa drummondiana Knotted Poa R x

Podolepis capillaris Wiry Podolepis x x x x x x

Podolepis rugata var. rugata Pleated Copper-wire Daisy x

Podolepis tepperi Delicate Copper-wire Daisy x

Podotheca angustifolia Sticky Long-heads x x

Pogonolepis muelleriana Stiff Cup-flower x

Pomaderris paniculosa ssp. x

Prasophyllum sp. Leek-orchid x

Prostanthera aspalathoides Scarlet Mintbush x

Prostanthera serpyllifolia ssp. microphylla Small-leaf Mintbush x

Pterostylis mutica Midget Greenhood x

Ptilotus obovatus Silver Mulla Mulla x

Ptilotus spathulatus f. spathulatus (NC) Pussy-tails x

Pultenaea tenuifolia Narrow-leaf Bush-pea x

Rhagodia crassifolia Fleshy Saltbush x

Rhagodia nutans x x

Rhagodia preissii ssp. preissii Mallee Saltbush x x x x x x x x x

Rhodanthe haigii Haig's Everlasting x

Rhodanthe polygalifolia Milkwort Everlasting x

Rhodanthe stuartiana Clay Everlasting x

Salsola tragus Buckbush x

Santalum acuminatum Quandong x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Santalum murrayanum Bitter Quandong x

Scaevola spinescens Spiny Fanflower x

Schoenus racemosus Sandhill Bog-rush x

Schoenus subaphyllus Desert Bog-rush x

Sclerolaena diacantha Grey Bindyi x x x x x x

Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Oblique-spined Bindyi x

Sclerolaena parviflora Small-flower Bindyi x

Sclerolaena pententicuspis x

Sclerolaena uniflora Small-spine Bindyi x x

Senecio glossanthus Annual Groundsel x

Senecio picridioides Purple-leaf Groundsel x

Senecio pinnatifolius (NC) Variable Groundsel x

Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Groundsel x

Senna artemisioides nothossp. (NC) Desert Senna x x

Senna artemisioides ssp. filifolia Fine-leaf Desert Senna x

Senna artemisioides ssp. Sturtii Grey Desert Senna x

Solanum coactiliferum Tomato-bush x

Spergularia diandra Lesser Sand-spurrey x

Spyridium parviflorum Dusty Miller x

Spyridium phylicoides Narrow-leaf Spyridium x

Stackhousia aspericocca x x

Stackhousia aspericocca ssp. Cylindrical Bushy Candles x inflorescence (W.R.Barker 1418) Stenopetalum sphaerocarpum Round-fruit Thread-petal x

Swainsona microphylla Small-leaf Swainson-pea x

Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. halocnemoides Grey Samphire x

Tecticornia indica ssp. leiostachya Brown-head Samphire x x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Templetonia retusa Cockies Tongue x

Teucrium sessiliflorum Mallee Germander x

Threlkeldia diffusa Coast Bonefruit x x x

Thryptomene micrantha Ribbed Thryptomene x

Thysanotus baueri Mallee Fringe-lily x

Thysanotus patersonii Twining Fringe-lily x x

Trachymene cyanopetala Purple Trachymene x

Trachymene pilosa Dwarf Trachymene x

Tricoryne elatior Yellow Rush-lily x

Tricoryne tenella Tufted Yellow Rush-lily x

Triglochin calcitrapum (NC) Spurred Arrowgrass x

Triglochin centrocarpum (NC) Dwarf Arrowgrass x

Triodia bunicola Flinders Ranges Spinifex x

Triodia compacta Spinifex x

Triodia irritans Spinifex x x x x x x x x

Triodia lanata Woolly Spinifex x

Velleia connata Cup Velleia x x x

Vittadinia cuneata var. cuneata f. cuneata Fuzzy New Holland Daisy x x x x

Vittadinia sp. New Holland Daisy x

Vulpia muralis Wall Fescue x

Wahlenbergia gracilenta Annual Bluebell x

Waitzia acuminata var. acuminata Orange Immortelle x x

Westringia rigida Stiff Westringia x x x x x

Xerochrysum bracteatum Golden Everlasting x

Zygophyllum ammophilum x

Zygophyllum apiculatum Pointed Twinleaf x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record Zygophyllum aurantiacum ssp. aurantiacum Shrubby Twinleaf x

Zygophyllum aurantiacum ssp. simplicifolium x

Zygophyllum crassissimum x R

Zygophyllum glaucum Pale Twinleaf x x x

Zygophyllum ovatum Dwarf Twinleaf x x

Zygophyllum sp. Twinleaf x

* Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel x

* Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed x

* Asparagus asparagoides (NC) Bridal Creeper x

* Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed x x x x

* Avellinia michelii Avellinia x

* Avena barbata Bearded Oat x

* Avena fatua Wild Oat x x x x x x

* Brassica juncea Indian mustard x

* Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip x x x x x x x x x x x

* Bromus diandrus Great brome x

* Bromus rubens Red Brome x x

* Bupleurum semicompositum Hare's Ear x

* Carthamus lanatus x

* Carrichtera annua Ward's Weed x x x

* Cyperus rotundus Nutgrass x

* Eragrostis minor Small Stink-grass x

* Erodium cicutarium Cut-leaf Heron's-bill x

* Euphorbia terracina False Caper x x

* Hedypnois rhagadioloides (NC) Cretan Weed x

* Hordeum glaucum Blue Barley-grass x

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BDBSA Species Name Common Name 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E F G H I J Opp NPW EPBC Record * Hordeum leporinum Wall Barley-grass x x x x x

* Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear x x x

* Lolium rigidum Wimmera Ryegrass x x x x x x x x

* Marrubium vulgare Horehound x x x x x

* Medicago littoralis x x x x

* Medicago truncatula Barrel Medic x

* Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Common Iceplant x x x x

* Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Slender Iceplant x x x x

* Minuartia mediterranea Slender Sandwort x x

* Salvia verbenaca Wild Sage x x x

* Silene nocturna Mediterranean Catchfly x

* Silene tridentata x

* Sisymbrium erysimoides Smooth Mustard x

* Sisymbrium officinale x x x

* Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade x x x

* Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle x x x x x x x

* Trifolium arvense var. arvense Hare's-foot Clover x

* Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue x

* Vulpia myuros f. Fescue x x x x x x x

Site Totals 37 25 38 57 41 10 10 9 6 15 33 12 11 26 12 9 264

* = Introduced species; Opp = Opportunistic sighting; BDBSA = Biological Database of South Australia, wider EL area 2011

Species observed during the flora survey and previously recorded by the BDBSA Species observed during the flora survey, but not previously recorded by the BDBSA Species previously recorded in the BDBSA as occurring in the study area, but not observed during the field survey

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Appendix D Fauna of the study area Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp. EP NPW EPBC BDBSA Record

BIRDS

Australasian Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae x - - MA x

Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen x x - - -

Australian Owlet-nightjar Aegotheles cristatus x - - -

Australian Raven Corvus coronoides - - - x

Australian Ringneck Barnardius zonarius x x x x - - -

Banded Lapwing Vanellus tricolor - - - x

Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae x x - - MA x

Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris x x - - -

Blue-breasted Fairy-wren Malurus pulcherrimus - - - x

Brown Falcon Falco berigora x x - - -

Brown Songlark Cincloramphus cruralis x x x x x - - - x

Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus x x - - -

Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus x x - - -

* Common Blackbird Turdus merula x x x - - -

Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera x x x x - - -

* Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris x - - - x

Crested Bellbird Oreoica gutturalis - - - x

Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes x x - - - x

Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus x x x - - - x

Galah Eolophus roseicapilla x x x x x - - - x

Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus x x x x x x - - - x

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Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp. EP NPW EPBC BDBSA Record NW ssp. Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor x x x - - x E Grey Fantail Rhipidura albiscapa x - - -

Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica x x x x x - - - x

Honeyeater, Brown-headed Melithreptus brevirostris x - - - x

Honeyeater, Singing Lichenostomus virescens x x x - - - x

Honeyeater, Spiny-cheeked Acanthagenys rufogularis x x x - - - x

Honeyeater, White-eared Lichenostomus leucotis x x x - - - x

Honeyeater, White-fronted Purnella albifrons x - - -

Honeyeater, Yellow-plumed Lichenostomus ornatus x x - - - x

* House Sparrow Passer domesticus x - - - x

Jacky Winter Microeca fascinans x x x x - SE ssp. R - x

Little Raven Corvus mellori x x x x - - MA x

Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca x x x - - - x

Malleefowl Leipoa ocellata V V VU x

Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles x - - -

Mulga Parrot Psephotus varius x x x x - - - x

Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides x - - MA

Pardalote, Spotted Pardalotus punctatus x x x x x - - - x

Pardalote, Striated Pardalotus striatus x - - -

Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus x x - - MA; MI

Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata x - - - x

Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta x - R -

Rufous Songlark Cincloramphus mathewsi x - - - x

Rufous Treecreeper Climacteris rufus x x x - - -

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Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp. EP NPW EPBC BDBSA Record Silvereye Zosterops lateralis - - MA x

Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis x - - MA

Stubble Quail Coturnix pectoralis x x - - MA

Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides x - - -

Thornbill, Inland Acanthiza apicalis x x x x x - - - x

Thornbill, Slender-billed Acanthiza iredalei iredalei x x - R VU

Thornbill, Yellow-rumped Acanthiza chrysorrhoa x x x x x - - - x

Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans x - - MA

Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris x x - - - x

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena x - - -

Western Yellow Robin Eopsaltria griseogularis x x x - - - x

Whistler, Gilbert's Pachycephala inornata x x - R -

Whistler, Rufous Pachycephala rufiventris x x x - - -

White-browed Babbler Pomatostomus superciliosus x x x x - - - x

White-browed Treecreeper Climacteris affinis superciliosa x x - - -

White-fronted Chat Epthianura albifrons x x x - - - x

White-winged Chough Corcorax melanorhamphos x x V** - - x

White-winged Triller Lalage tricolor x x - - -

Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys x x x x x - - - x

Yellow-throated Miner Manorina flavigula x x x x - - - x

MAMMALS

* Cat (Feral Cat) Felis catus ? - - - x

Fat-tailed Dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata - - - x

* Fox (Red Fox) Vulpes vulpes ? x x x x - - -

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Common Name Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Opp. EP NPW EPBC BDBSA Record Gould's Wattled Bat Chalinolobus gouldii x - - - SE form SE Greater Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus timoriensis - x V form V * House Mouse Mus musculus x x - - -

Mitchell's Hopping-mouse Notomys mitchellii x - - -

* Rabbit (European Rabbit) Oryctolagus cuniculus x - - - x

Red Kangaroo Macropus rufus x - - -

Southern Forest Bat Vespadelus regulus x x x

Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat Lasiorhinus latifrons x x - - -

Western Grey Kangaroo Macropus fuliginosus x x x x - - - x

REPTILES

Barking Gecko Nephrurus milii - - - x

Desert Whipsnake Demansia reticulata - - - x

Dwarf Bearded Dragon Pogona minor x x - - -

Five-lined Earless Dragon Tympanocryptis lineata x x - - -

Sleepy Lizard Tiliqua rugosa x x x x - - -

Southern Spinifex Ctenotus Ctenotus atlas x - - -

Starred Knob-tailed Gecko Nephrurus stellatus x x x x - - -

Western Bluetongue Tiliqua occipitalis x x - - -

Western Brown Snake Pseudonaja nuchalis (NC) x - - -

Site Totals 27 33 36 35 22 33 45 * = Introduced species; Opp = Opportunistic sighting; BDBSA = Biological Database of South Australia, EL area 2011

Species observed during the fauna survey and previously recorded by the BDBSA Species observed during the fauna survey, but not previously recorded by the BDBSA Species previously recorded in the BDBSA as occurring in the study area, but not observed during the field survey

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